Southeast Torrance Homeowners' Association, Inc. (SETHA) PO Box 3893 Torrance CA 90510

Weekly Crime Log for SE Torrance Sunday, January 15, 2012 through Saturday, January 21, 2012

2012-01-26T20:58:00.000-08:00

Jan 21, 2012 7PM - Jan 22, 2012 6AM    Auto Theft   2100 Block Sepulveda Blvd (Gramercy)
                                                                    Stolen Vehicle - 1997 Honda Accord

Jan 17, 2012, Tuesday, 9AM                      Residential Burglary 1700 Block 243rd St (Huber)
             Suspect(s) removed screen, enteed open window in vacant house. No loss.

Jan 18, 2012, Wednesday, 12:43PM          Residential Burglary   2300 Block 237th St (Lucille)
             Suspect(s) smashed window for entry, ransacks and takes unknown property at time of report

Rate Change in Refuse Collection Services

2012-01-25T17:49:00.001-08:00

The Torrance City Council voted last night to expand the green recycling program to the entire city. .
Effective, February 1, 2012, the collection rates will increase by $2.50 per month if you have the large black 94 gallon refuse container. If you downsize to the smaller black 64 gallon refuse container,
the monthly increase will be $1.50 per month.

Residential Refuse Rates
The rates for the Sanitation Services Fee will be as follows as of February 1, 2012:

Standard Service - $25.08 per month
64 gallon refuse container
96 gallon recycling container
96 gallon green waste recycling container

Optional Service - $26.08 per month
96 gallon refuse container
96 gallon recycling container
96 gallon green waste recycling container

These are suggested service levels. The rate is tied to the size of the refuse container. Residents can choose different sizes of recycling and green waste recycling containers and it will not affect their monthly rates. All containers are available in 64 gallon and 96 gallon sizes.
Sanitation services container size dimensions:
64 gallon containers - 40" H x 27.5" W x 30" D
96 gallon containers - 46.75" H x 29.25" W x 34.50" D
Older containers may be slightly smaller.

To request a change in container size or additional containers, call 1-855-354-5623. You can also go to www.torranceca.gov/7208.htm to request a change. Please note that all container change requests, size and additional containers, must be kept for a minmum of six (6) months before another change can be requested. After making the request, please leave the container to be changed out in an easily accessible and visible place until it is changed out. Depending on the demand for containers, this could be a couple weeks to several weeks.

Please note: Residents will be charged as of February 1, 2012 based on the containers they have at that time. Residents must request changes to their container sizes. Residents will receive the 96 gallon green waste recycling container unless a change is requested.

For additional refuse containers, residents must first have the 96 gallon refuse container, and will be charged an additional 75% of that fee, regardless of the size of their second refuse container. Second recycling and green waste recycling containers are free.

Residents with alley refuse collection (300 gallon shared containers) will be charged the same rate as a 64 gallon refuse container.

Residents with the low-income senior or disabled rate will not have a rate increase, but will be switched to the 64 gallon refuse container.

Low-Income Senior or Permanently Disabled Discounts
To qualify for a senior or handicapped rate, the applicant must be a minimum of 62 years of age or permanently disabled. In addition, your total household income must be no greater than $27,225 for the prior calendar year. If you meet this criteria, please call the City's Finance Department at 1-310-618-5830, and they will mail you the appropriate forms.
The Consumer Price Index (CPI) rate adjustment will continue each July 1 for the next 5 years. The 2011 adjustment was 3.682%.
Starting July, 2011, the refuse rates were:
$23.58 regular service rate for collection of refuse and recycling
$8.72 qualifying, low-income senior/disabled rate
$17.69 second refuse container rate
Important Notice
** If you live in a single family residence and are not receiving services such as refuse collection from the City of Torrance, more than likely your address is not considered City of Torrance. It is recommended that you call the City of Los Angeles. The City of Los Angeles Service Request Number is 1-800-996-2489 or click here to go to the City of Los Angeles website.

Southern California Gas Company Warns About Potential Payment Scam

2012-01-20T09:56:00.000-08:00

SoCalGas Warns Customers About Potential Payment Scam

LOS ANGELES, Jan. 19, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Southern California Gas Co. (SoCalGas) is warning customers to be aware of an ongoing wire fraud that could potentially reach SoCalGas customers. The fraudulent activity has been reported on the East Coast and at this time there are no indications that SoCalGas customers have been targeted.

Utilities on the East Coast have reported that individuals misrepresenting themselves as utility employees are calling customers and threatening to turn off electric and gas service if payment is not made to them that day. Utility customers, primarily in the Hispanic community, have been told that payment must be made by purchasing a pre-pay credit card, and are directed to another phone number where information is then obtained from the card and the cash value is removed from the card or the permanent card is registered in another name and redirected.

"Although there have not yet been reports of this fraudulent activity in southern California, we want to alert our customers in an effort to prevent them from becoming potential victims," said Michael Schneider, vice president of customer operations at SoCalGas. "We advise customers to be alert and not to provide any type of financial information if they receive a call from a suspicious company."

SoCalGas does not proactively contact customers to ask for credit card information over the phone, said Schneider. The utility provides past due notices in writing before service is shut-off for non-payment. Additionally, all SoCalGas employees on company business are required to carry a photo ID badge. When customers call SoCalGas for billing inquiries, employees will always be able to provide account information and the exact past due balance. If customers receive a phone call that makes them feel uncomfortable, they should hang up and call SoCalGas at 1-800-427-2200 or 1-800-342-4545 in Spanish, or the local authorities to file a report.

Weekly Crime Log for SE Torrance Sunday, January 8, 2012 through Saturday, January 14, 2012

2012-01-19T21:41:00.000-08:00

January 8, 2012, 7PM - January 9, 2012 6AM Auto Burglary 1900 Block Reynosa Drive (Walnut St)
Suspect punched door lock for entry. Vehicle ransacked with wallet and property stolen.

January 12, 2012 10PM - January 13, 2012 10AM Commercial Burglary Pennsylvania & Sepulveda
Suspect entered unlocked laundry room and used torch in an attempt to take cash from dryer coin box.
No entry, no loss.

There were 4 Auto Burglary incidents in the 3400, 3500, 3700 blocks of 225th, 226th and 227th Streets
on Thursday, January 12th in which the suspect(s) pried the door handle for entry and took the third row seats from the four vehicles. This area is west of Crenshaw Blvd and not in the SETHA area.

John Bailey, President
SETHA

Weekly Crime Log for SE Torrance Sunday, January 1, 2012 through Saturday, January 7,. 2012

2012-01-12T21:09:00.000-08:00

January 1, 2012 6:47PM Auto Burglary 23700 Block Cabrillo Avenue
Suspect enters unlocked vehicle and takes property including iPod, GPS, Bluetooth, paperwork.

January 2 5:30PM to January 3 8:45AM Auto Burglary 1900 Block 235th St (Walnut/Cabrillo)
Suspect enters vehicle by unknown means, ransacks and takes sunglasses, bag, makeup, new wallets, crate of toys.

January 1 4:30PM to January 2 3AM Auto Theft 23700 Block Arlington
1997 Nissan Sentra stolen

Weekly Crime Log for SE Torrance Sunday, December 4, 2011 through Saturday, December 10,2011

2011-12-15T19:53:00.000-08:00

12/05/11 2:53PM Auto Theft     2000 Block 231st St (Cabrillo)      Stolen 02 Kia Optima

12/06/11 4:30PM   Vandalism      1900 Block 233rd St (Walnut)   Vehicle Window Smashed, No Entry

12/7/11 6PM - 12/8/11 6:30AM    2200 Block 235th St (Arlington) Suspect removes screen and window glass for entry, takes food out of refrigerator and leaves it on the floor.

Weekly Crime Log for SE Torrance Sun, 11/27/11 through Sat, 12/01/11

2011-12-09T21:18:00.000-08:00

11/27/11 1PM Residential Theft 23900 Block Huber Avenue Suspects, while in victim's house with permission take television without permission.

11/30/11 11AM Battery-Weapon/Agg 23700 Block Western Avenue Suspect used a metal bar to strike the victim in the head.

12/1 7PM - 12/2 5AM Auto Theft 23000 Block Walnut Street Suspect removes vehicle catalytic converter.

Vandalism at the new J. H. Hull Middle School

2011-11-28T13:17:00.000-08:00

Vandalism occurred at the new Hull Middle School over the break for Thanksgiving.

Eight windows were broken on the south and west sides of the gym.
Graffitti on the gym door on the north side of the building.
Graffitti on the marquee sign and on the cement bases of the light fixtures.

If you have any information, please contact the Torrance Police Department and the
Principal at Hull Middle School.

John Bailey, President
SETHA

Weekly Crime Log for SE Torrance 11/13/2011 through 11/19/2011

2011-11-27T21:54:00.000-08:00

11 18 2011 12:35PM Residential Burglary 2000 Block 235th Place (Cabrillo) Suspect forced open garage door and interior door to residence. Ransacks and takes property including PS and Wii consoles, games and accessories, speaker, cash.

11 17 2011 8AM - Noon Residential Burglary 2500 Block 232nd St (Crenshaw) Suspect forced sliding glass dor for entry. Ransacks and takes property, jewelry, cash and handguns.

Weekly Crime Log for SE Torrance, Sunday, October 23, 2011 through Saturday, October 29, 2011

2011-11-03T10:57:00.000-07:00

10 25 2011 Noon to 10 27 2011 10AM Residential Burglary 24200 Block Falena Avenue
Suspect(s) entered residence tented for fumigation by cutting tent. Resident ransacked and
property taken/unknown loss at time of report.

10 29 2011 9-10AM Auto Burglary 2000 Block 231st St (Cabrillo)
Suspect smashed vehicle window and took property/purse.

Fumingation Burglary Bulletin, Torrance PD, September, 2011

DETAILS: Jurisdictions just north of Torrance are reporting large numbers of residential burglaries since July 01, 2011 wherein suspects are targeting single family residences and apartment buildings tented for fumigation; Gardena has had at least nine while Inglewood has had at least 12. Torrance has had four in that time and six in all of 2011 (mapped at right – note all are in the northern half of the city); by comparison, in Torrance between 2007 and 2010, the average was two per year. Historically in Torrance, the top months for these have been September and November. To date, no suspect or suspect vehicle description
So many fumigation companies have been used by the victims it doesn’t seem likely they are involved in the burglaries. The point of compromise could potentially be the gas co (electricity remains on during fumigation) or according to Terminix employees contacted in February, there are burglars who follow around the fumigation trucks to locate potential targets and are wise to the fact that once the fans are placed in the homes to force out air (federal law) not only are the homes accessible due to open doors and windows, but it is safe to make entry due to the chemicals being removed.

Weekly Crime Log for SE Torrance, Sunday, October 9, 2011 through Saturday, October 15, 2011

2011-10-20T21:36:00.000-07:00

10 12 11 Wed 1:30-4PM Residential Burglary 23600 Block Cabrillo Ave
Suspect(s) cut screen, entered window, ransacks and takes TV and additional property.

10 13 11 Thu 9PM Simple Battery 23000 Huber Ave Suspects push and strike each other.

10 13 11 7:30PM - 10 14 11 2PM 23300 Block Arlington Ave Suspect takes locked property from parking garage/bicycle

Weekly Crime Log for SE Torrance, Sunday October 2nd through Saturday, October 8, 2011

2011-10-14T10:27:00.000-07:00

10 5 11 Wed 10AM Auto Theft 23700 Block Western Ave 2006 Toyota Prius Stolen

10 5 11 8AM-5PM Residential Burglary 24500 Block Falena Avenue Suspect entered through unlocked door and took property/jewelry.

Weekly Crime Log for SE Torrance, Sunday, 9/25/2011 through Saturday, October 1, 2011

2011-10-06T13:20:00.000-07:00

9/30/2011 Friday 7:30AM - 6PM 1900 Block 235th St near Walnut

Suspect removed screen, entered through open window. Ransacked
house and took property, jewelry, cash, and camera in a pillow case.

Residential Burglary in Southeast Torrance

2011-10-01T19:29:00.000-07:00

On Friday, September 30, 2011, at 10:30AM a blue sedan with a male black driver, short cropped hair was observed parked on the north side of 234th Street near Walnut. The suspect entered a side yard of a residence but left rather quickly. He may have been confronted by one of the dogs in the yard.

Shortly thereafter, a blue sedan with a male meeting the same description was observed on the north side of the 1900 block of 235th Street near Walnut. A residential burglary occurred in one of the homes yesterday on that block.

This information is from residents in the area. If you were in the area yesterday morning and saw a vehicle or suspect matching the above description, please call the Torrance Police Department.
John Bailey, President
SETHA

Weekly Crime Log for SE Torrance, Sunday, 9/18/11 - Saturday, 9/24/11

2011-09-29T12:11:00.000-07:00

9/18/11     Vandalism     2200 Block 229th St (Arlington) Marble used to break window in home.
9/18/11      Vandalism     2100 Block Middlebrook Ave(Arlington &Cabrillo)
                                        Marble used to break windows in two homes.
9/24-9/25/11 Vandalism 2200 Block 235th St (Arlington) Vehicle door dented.

Weekly Crime Log for SE Torrance, Monday, September 12 through Saturday, September 17, 2011 (9 11 11 omitted)

2011-09-22T21:03:00.000-07:00

There were 24 reports of vandalism in the City of Torrance resulting in broken windows in residences, vehicles and businesses during the reporting period.
10 acts of vandalism occurred in Southeast Torrance.

9 15 11 – 9 16 11 Vandalism 2200 Block 230th Place (Arlington) Suspect used an unknown object to break the window of the vehicle.
9 15 11 8:40PM Vandalism 2400 Block 235th St (Pennsylvania) Suspect used a marble to break the window of the residence.
9 15 11 8:30-8:40PM Vandalism 2000 Block Middlebrook Road (Cabrillo) Suspect used a marble to break the window of the residence.
9 15 11 8:25-8:30PM Vandalism 1900 Block 233rd St (Walnut) Suspect used a marble to break the window of a vehicle.
9 15 11 6:30-9:30PM Vandalism 1900 Block 233rd St (Walnut) Suspect used a marble to break the window of a vehicle.
9 15 11 6-7PM Vandalism 2300 Block 230th Place (Arlington) Suspect used a marble to break the window of a residence.
9 16 11 8:30-10PM Auto Burglary 2400 Block Sepulveda Blvd Suspect entered vehicle by unknown means. Property, GPS, airbag, third row seats stolen.
9 16 11 to 9 19 11 Vandalism 2500 Block 237th St Suspect used an unknown object to break the window of a business.
9 17 11 5:35PM Vandalism 24200 Block Crenshaw Blvd Suspect used a BB or ball bearing to shatter the window of a business.
9 17 11 5:30-7PM Vandalism 23800 Stanhurst (btwn Cabrillo/Walnut) Suspect used an unknown object to shatter sliding glass door of a residence.
9 17 11 12PM-2PM Vandalism 22900 Block Walnut St Suspect used an unknown object to break the window of a vehicle.

And remember, always report suspicious persons to the Torrance Police Department.
To crimes in progress crime, call 9-1-1
For non-emergency reporting, call 618-5641
John Bailey, President
Southeast Torrance Homeowners' Association, Inc. (SETHA)

Weekly Crime Log for SE Torrance, Sunday, Sept 4 through Saturday, September 10, 2011

2011-09-15T12:19:00.000-07:00

9/6/2011 Late Night to Early AM 9/7/0211 23800 Block Arlington Avenue Two Incidents Bicycles and Property Stolen

9/6/2011 to 9/7/2011 2000 Block 237th St Suspect breaks off a key in mailbox lock.

Special Alert – Increase In Auto Burglary Incidents

There were 18 reported incidents of auto burglary in the Hollywood Riveria area on Friday night, September 10th and early Saturday morning, September 11th. Property stolen included iTouch, GPS/stereo system, third row seat, backpack, cash, fishing rod, helmets, gloves, bats, sunglasses, iPad, cell phone, purse, tennis racquets, purse, checkbook and other items.

All auto burglaries have one thing in common: something to steal ............ something valuable left in the car. Many are “crimes of opportunity” and could have been avoided had simple preventative steps been taken. Don’t leave valuables in your car and particularly in plain sight.

One reason SUVs are common targets is because they don’t have a trunk to hold valuables. Thieves know it only takes a few seconds to check all the usualhiding places – glove compartment, behind and under the seats. Don’t leave any sign that there may be valuables out of sight in your vehicle, such as docking stations and connector cables. Leave nothing in plain sight that might make your vehicle worth stealing by a thief, not even loose coins or CD’s. Just leaving an empty docking station in plain sight, even if you have taken the high $$$ component with you may end up resulting in replacing a broken window.

Statistics indicate that backpacks, gym bags, briefcases, cash/coins, checkbooks, credit/debit cards, wallets and purses (even when hidden under a seat or in an unlocked glove box), laptops, IPods, MP3 players and docking stations, cell phones and charges, GPS systems, stereo/CD players, amps, speakers (even when bolted down), jewelry, keys, mail and tools are most commonly stolen from vehicles.

It takes 30 seconds for a thief to break into your car and steal your valuables. Don’t be a victim! Move it or Lose It! Don’t leave valuable items in your car. Help make Southeast Torrance unattractive to auto-burglary thieves.

Sunday, September 11, 2011 Patriot Day

2011-09-10T20:55:00.001-07:00

Information for September 11, 2011 - Fire Dept. Helicopters

In memory of September 11 events and recognition of this Sunday as Patriot Day, helicopters from the Los Angeles Fire Department will be seen frequently flying in formation near memorial events across the greater Los Angeles area. The planned presence of these public safety aircraft above public ceremonies should be no cause for alarm.

Weekly Crime Report for SE Torrance Sunday August 28th through Saturday, September 3, 2011

2011-09-09T13:35:00.000-07:00

Friday 9/2/11 12:30PM - 6:30PM Residential Burglary 1900 Block 236th St (Walnut St)
Suspect(s) removed screen and entered open window. Money, laptop, speakers, jewelry,
suitcase, iTouch, camera and cosmetics stolen.

Monday 8/29/11 7PM - Tuesday 8/30/11 7AM Vandalism 23400 Block Western Ave
Suspect(s) used BB gun to shoot windows at location.

Tuesday 8/30/11 Vandalism 2440 Block Crenshaw Blvd Suspect(s) uses BB gun to shoot windows.

Weekly Crime Log for Sunday, August 21, 2011 - Saturday, August, 27,2011

2011-09-02T17:00:00.000-07:00

8/21/2011 2-6PM Residential Burglary 239th and Pennsylvania Suspect(s) entered through unsecured window, ransacks and removes property/cash.

8/21/2011 12-12:30PM Simple Battery 233rd & Walnut    Suspect kicks victim after argument.

8/27/2011 1AM Vandalism 23900 Block Crenshaw Blvd   Suspect tags exterior trash bin & restroom.

8/27/2011 5-8PM Vandalism 233rd & Arlington                    Suspect punctures vehicle tires.

Weekly Crime Log for SE Torrance, Sunday August 14th through Saturday August 20th

2011-08-26T20:54:00.000-07:00

8 15 2011 Noon to 1PM Theft 23100 Block Dana Ave (near Hull) Suspect(s) enters location by unknown means and takes property/laptop.

8 17 2011 11PM Theft 23900 Block Crenshaw Blvd Suspect(s) removes property from unsecure purses - cell phone and cash.

Hull Middle School Dedication

2011-08-25T19:08:00.000-07:00

Weekly Crime Log for SE Torrance for the week ending August 6, 2011

2011-08-11T19:51:00.000-07:00

7/31/2011 11:21AM         Battery       2400 Block 237th Pl (Pennsylvania Avenue)
                                                                Suspect attempted to strike victim with a screwdriver.
8/3/2011       8:14AM         Auto Theft   2000 Block 235th Place (Cabrillo Avenue)
                                                                 2001 Toyota 4Runner stolen
Out of SETHA area but of interest. On Friday, August 5th, there were three auto burglary incidents
in the 300 Block of Del Amo Fashion Center between 10AM and 6PM. Suspect(s) punched door
lock for entry.

US Postal Service Merchant Marine Stamp Issuance on the S.S. Lane Victory

2011-07-21T21:15:00.000-07:00

Who:	U.S. Postal Service U.S. Merchant Marine Veterans of World War II
What:	Unveiling and First Day of Sale ceremony for the Merchant Marine commemorative forever stamps
When:	10:00 a.m. PT Thursday, July 28, 2011
Where:	On board the S.S. Lane Victory Berth 94 San Pedro CA
Directions:	From the 110 Fwy, take Hwy 47 towards the Vincent Thomas Bridge. Before the bridge, take the Harbor Blvd exit. Stay in the center lane and cross Harbor onto Swinford St. Cross Front St and enter toll gate. Turn right at second stop sign, and then quick left into parking lot. Print this media advisory for two hour free parking and give to parking lot attendant.
Background:	Since colonial times, America’s merchant ships have plied the oceans conveying goods and passengers. During wartime, they have also helped deliver troops and war materials. The United States has looked to the commercial maritime industry over the years for much of its growth and security. This stamp issuance pays tribute to the U.S. Merchant Marine, the modern name for the maritime fleet that has played this vital national role. The four-stamp pane features types of vessels that have formed an important part of this history: clipper ships, auxiliary steamships, Liberty ships and container ships. The S.S. Lane Victory, built here in Los Angeles in 1945, served with distinction during World War II, The Korean War, and the Vietnam War as well as in times of peace as part of the merchant fleet. After years of deterioration, it took countless hours of restoration to put her back into her original condition by volunteers of the U.S. Merchant Marine Veterans of World War II. A nationally recognized historic landmark, the S.S. Lane Victory now serves as a living museum and memorial to the service and sacrifices of all Merchant Marine sailors and Navy Armed Guardsmen.

U.S. Navy Ship Tours

2011-07-21T21:04:00.000-07:00

The Port of Los Angeles is celebrating Los Angeles Navy Week from Monday, July 25th through Sunday, July 31st.

The USS Abraham Lincoln, an aircraft carrier, the USS Princeton, a cruiser, the USS Chafee, a destroyer and the USS Champion, a mine countermeasures ship will be open for free public tours.

See www.portoflosangeles.org or www.navyweek.org/losangeles2011/index.html for details.

Torrance Police Burglary Prevention Class

2011-07-19T21:05:00.000-07:00

Community Safety Training Workshop

DATE: Wednesday August 24th
LOCATION: Torrance Police Department
TIME: 6:00 PM to 7:30PM
TOPIC: Burglary Prevention

Learn how you can keep your home, vehicle and family safe from opportunistic
criminals. This session will be presented by expert Torrance Police Department
Detectives.

To sign up for this class go to:
https://www.torranceca.gov/Survey/TakeSurvey.asp?SurveyID=6JM9643H3p4KG.
Class will be limited to 50 participants.

Address/Location
Torrance Police Department
3300 Civic Center Dr
Torrance, CA 90503

Weekly Crime Log for SE Torrance, Sunday, July 3 through Saturday, July 9, 2011

2011-07-14T21:13:00.000-07:00

July 8th 7PM to July 9th 9AM     Theft     2400 Block 239th St (btwn Pennsylvania & Crenshaw)
                                                                     Suspect takes property from parking area/bicycle, scooter.

July 3rd, 1PM                                Theft      23900 Block Huber Avenue
                                                                      Suspect flees residence with victim's purse. Cash stolen.

July 4th PM to July 5th 8AM        Auto Theft 2300 Block 235th St (btwn Penn and Arlington)
                                                                       Stolen 80 Chevrolet Van

Weekly Crime Log for SE Torrance, Sunday June 26 through Saturday July 2, 2011

2011-07-07T12:50:00.000-07:00

7 1 2011 10PM to 7 2 2011 11AM  Stolen Auto    1800 Block 235th St (btwn Western & Walnut) 09 Kia

7 2 2011   7PM                                 Vandalism      2400 Block Sepulveda (Pennsylvania Ave)
                                                           Suspect used bicycle handlebars to scratch and dent vehicle.

Torrance Blvd Lane Closure Saturday July 9, 2011

2011-07-06T18:07:00.000-07:00

WESTBOUND Torrance Blvd., between Western Avenue and Sartori Avenue, will be CLOSED on Saturday, July 9th, beginning at 7:00 AM and reopening to traffic at 7:00 PM. This closure is necessary in order to perform the slurry seal operations adjacent to the bridge due to the restricted roadway width in this area.

Traffic Impacts from 7AM through 7PM Saturday, July 9th:

Westbound Torrance Blvd, will be CLOSED between Sartori Avenue and Western Avenue
Cabrillo Avenue and Van Ness Avenue will be down to one lane in both directions at the intersection with Torrance Blvd.
Right turns will be prohibited for southbound traffic on Van Ness Avenue to Torrance Blvd.
Left turns will be prohibited for northbound traffic on Cabrillo Avenue to Torrance Blvd.

Detours will be set up to redirect westbound through traffic off of Torrance Blvd. onto Carson Street via Western Avenue. Delays are expected. Changeable message signs are in place to alert motorists of the upcoming road closure.

Should you have any questions or comments, please contact:

Beth Overstreet - Engineering

PE, Manager, Public Works

Office: 310.618.3074

Cell: 310.702.6908
Lauren Sablan

PE, Associate Engineer, Public Works

Office: 310.618.6259

SE Torrance Weekly Crime Log, June19 through June 25, 2011

2011-06-30T12:34:00.000-07:00

Tuesday, June 21, 2011 5-11PM Residential Burglary 1800 Block of Middlebrook (btwn Walnut & Cabrillo)
Suspect(s) used a ladder to access 2nd story balcony, entered unlocked sliding
glass door, ransacked and took property including jewelry, handbags, and cash.
Friday, June 24, 2011 8AM Simple Battery Crenshaw Blvd and Sepulveda Blvd
Suspect attempted to kick police officers, threatened to punch them and spit on
them while being placed under arrest.
Sat-Sun, June 25th, 3PM to
June 26th, 10AM Vandalism 2300 Block 235th St (btwn Arlington & Pennsylvania)
Suspect(s) threw water ballons breaking windows

This is a synopsis from the Torrance Police Department(TPD) Gang Enforcement Team (GET) about the program to track the released inmates from the State of California prisons

{The Parole Compliance & Assistance Program (PCAP) was created in anticipation of California 's release of thousands of state inmates. The program was implemented and applied prior to their release, putting TPD well ahead of the curve.
Initially, PCAP was intended to document and track the non-revocable parolees (NRP) who are classified as "non-violent offenders", who are essentially unsupervised parolees. NRP parolees are not required to check in with a parole agent, nor are they are they required to submit to urine tests, nor can their parole status be violated for committing a crime. They are still subject to search and seizure at all times.
The Torrance Police Department, however, documents and track ALL parolees who live in the City of Torrance . The TPD Gang Enforcement Team updates the list of parolees living in the City of Torrance each month. With that list, patrol officers personally contact each parolee in order to confirm their address, as well as obtain pertinent information.

Crime Log - June 5th through June 11, 2011

2011-06-17T21:28:00.000-07:00

June 5, 2011  8-10PM  Theft            3300 Lomita Blvd Suspect(s) takes hospitalized victim's property from under her bed. ID, cell phone, cash.

June 5, 2011   9PM        Vandalism 23200 Block Pennsylvania Ave   Vehicle window smashed. No entry, no loss of property.

June 10, 2011 7AM        Vandalism   235th and Crenshaw Blvd. Vehicle window smashed. No entry, no loss of property.

Hazardous Waste Roundup, Saturday, June 18th in Torrance

2011-06-15T21:50:00.000-07:00

A Hazardous Waste Roundup will be held on Saturday, June 18th in Torrance from 9AM to 3PM at the American Honday facility. See map for exact location.

Sponsored jointly by the Los Angeles County Sanitation Districts and the Department of Public Works. The Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) Collection Program gives Los Angeles County residents a legal and cost free way to dispose of unwanted household chemicals that cannot be disposed of in the regular trash.

THINGS YOU CAN BRING...

Motor Oil, Antifreeze, Paint, Paint Thinner.

Turpentine, Cleaners with Acids or Lye.

Pool Chemicals

Pesticides and Herbicides.

Household and Car Batteries.

Old Computers and Television Sets.

Printers, VCR’s, Cell Phones, Fax Machines, Stereos.

Electronic Games and Toys

Microwave Ovens

Light Bulbs

Sharps or Used Needles.

Expired Pharmaceuticals and Mercury Thermometers.

THINGS WE DON'T WANT YOU TO BRING...

Explosives, Ammunition or Radioactive materials.

Waste from Businesses will NOT be accepted.

Trash or Old Tires.

White Goods such as Washers, Stoves, Refrigerators or Air Conditioners.

HOW TO PREPARE...

In general there is a limit of 15 gallons or 125 lbs. per vehicle.

Bring items in a sturdy box, preferably in their original labeled containers.

Be prepared to leave your containers.

Do not mix products together.

FOR MORE INFORMATION, CALL

THE LOS ANGELES COUNTY SANITATION DISTRICTS - (800) 238-0172

Transportation limit for chemical related items: It is against the law to transport more than 15 gallons or 125 pounds of hazardous waste to collection sites. Please pack your waste properly to prevent tipping or spilling of the waste during transportation.

John Bailey, President

Southeast Torrance Homeowners' Association, Inc. (SETHA)

4th Annual Southeast Torrance Neighborhood Garage Sale

2011-06-11T22:00:00.000-07:00

The 4th Annual Southeast Torrance Neighborhood Garage Sale will be held on Saturday, June 25, 2011 from 8AM to Noon. This event will be advertised in the Penny Saver, the Daily Breeze and Craig's List.
Joi Kimoto, Realtor, with Cornerstone Realty and SE Torrance resident has planned, organized and worked successfully to make it a very popular sale.

Joi will be publishing a map listing the SE Torrance residents who have signed up for the event. You must register by June 18th to be included on the maps. Residents are responsible for posting their own
garage sale signs.

To register, contact Joi Kimoto at joikimoto@att.net or call 310.308.0685.

John Bailey, President
SETHA

July 12, 2011 36th Congressional District Special Election

2011-06-04T21:04:00.000-07:00

The Los Angeles County Registrar-Recorder/County Clerk is now accepting electronic Vote By Mail applications at www.lavote.net.

On June 13th, The Registrar-Recorder/County Clerk will begin delivery of Vote By Mail Ballot packages for the July 12, 2011 36th Congressional District Special Election.

Apply now. The last day to submit an application for a Vote By Mail Ballot is July 5, 2011. Please call 800.815.2666 (option 4) for 562.462.1323 for further assistance.

John Bailey, President
SETHA

Hawthorne Blvd Closure due to Injury Traffic Collision Saturday, May 28th

2011-05-28T16:39:00.000-07:00

Alert Message has been issued by the Torrance Police Department.

Saturday May 28, 2011 3:47 PM PDT

Hawthorne Blvd. at Newton Street closure - Update
In order to make repairs to the damaged and downed power poles and power lines on Hawthorne Blvd. in the area of Newton Street that resulted from the traffic collision; Southern California Edison is advising Hawthorne Blvd. will be closed in both directions between Rolling Hills Road and 244th Street for approximately the next 24 hours. Please avoid the area.
For full details, go to https://local.nixle.com/alert/4695631/?sub_id=84369.

John Bailey, President
SETHA

Weekly Crime Log

2011-05-26T22:23:00.000-07:00

City of Torrance Police Department Weekly Crime Log 5/15/2011-5/21/2011 for SE Torrance

Auto Burglary 2400 Block Sepulveda (between Penn and Crenshaw)
                          Suspect smashed window and took property, laptop, etc.
Auto Burglary 2200 Block 239th St (between Arlington and Penn)
                         Suspect smashed window and took unknown property.
Theft                 2200 Block 229th St (between Arlington and Penn)
                          Suspect took property off victim's front porch.
Auto Burglary   2200 Block 232nd St (between Arlington and Penn)
                          Suspect opened unlocked vehicle. Ransacked, head rests, jackets, glasses
                          and other property taken along with registration.
Auto Burglary 2200 Block 229th Place (between Arlington and Penn)
                          Suspect opened unlocked vehicle and took property, briefcase, camera, IPod, keys.
Theft                 23800 Block Pennsylvania Ave
                          Suspect attempted to remove artificial turf from front yard.

Torrance Armed Forces Day Parade

2011-05-17T11:20:00.000-07:00

On Saturday, May 21st at 1:30 PM, the City of Torrance will continue the tradition of hosting the Armed Forces Day Parade, as it has done for the past 52 years!
Torrance has proudly honored the men and women in the United States Military with the annual Armed Forces Day Parade and celebration -- our parade has the distinction of being the longest-running military parade in the nation!
Each year the parade honors a specific branch of the Armed Forces -- this year we'll pay tribute to the United States Army. Grand Marshal, General Robert W. Cone, will lead over 50 entries, which will include the military personnel, equipment, veterans, and local bands.
The parade will start at Crenshaw Blvd., head westbound on Torrance Blvd. and end at Madrona Ave. Just so you know, all streets intersecting the parade route will be closed to through traffic for most of the day.

During weekend of May 20th - 22nd, the following events will occur in the City:

FRIDAY, MAY 20th
Military ExhibitsMilitary exhibits including aircrafts, vehicles, and support equipment will be on display for everyone at the Del Amo Fashion Center in the lower lot west of the parking structure for the Lifestyle Wing.Friday & Saturday - May 20 & 21, 2011 10:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Sunday - May 22, 2011 11:00 AM - 3:00 PM

Concert
The California Army National Guard, 40th Infantry Division Band will perform for free at the James Armstrong Theatre, 3330 Civic Center Drive.
Friday - May 20, 2011 1:30 PM & 7:30 PM
For tickets, contact the Box Office: 310-781-7171. The Box Office will open at 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday, May 18 and tickets can be picked up for either concert. The tickets are free and are on a first come first serve basis. There is a limit of four (4) tickets per adult. Ticket holders must be in their seats 15 minutes prior to show time or the seat will be made available to their patrons.

__________________________________
SATURDAY, MAY 21st

Parade: 52nd Annual Armed Forces Day Parade1:30 PM - 3:30 PM
__________________________________
SUNDAY, MAY 22

Military ExhibitsThe outdoor military exhibits at the Del Amo Fashion Center will continue in the parking lot west of the Lifestyle Wing parking structure.

Sunday - May 22, 2011
11:00 AM - 3:00 PM

For additional information about the festivities, visit: http://www.torranceca.gov/ArmedForcesDay.htm

Torrance Blvd Lane Closure

2011-05-15T12:05:00.000-07:00

Torrance Boulevard Lane Closure at Van Ness Avenue (May 16 - May 20, 2011)

Monday, May 16, 2011 at 7:00 a.m. until Friday, May 20, 2011 at 4:00 p.m., the left turn lane from eastbound Torrance Boulevard to northbound Van Ness Avenue will be closed to allow for the removal of the center median located on the west side of the intersection.

Motorists who normally utilize this left turn lane will be diverted to Western Avenue with a message board sign located on Torrance Boulevard at Madrid Avenue. Calls may be directed to Public Works at (310) 781-6900 if further information is needed.

Sepulveda Blvd Closure

2011-05-11T12:41:00.000-07:00

May 11, 2011 12:30PM
A water main break on Sepulveda Blvd between Hickory Avenue and Eriel Avenue has
caused flooding. All lanes of Sepulveda Blvd are closed.

T-Mobile Cell Phone Tower Proposed for Sur La Brea Park

2011-04-17T22:31:00.000-07:00

The Torrance City Council will meet on Tuesday, April 19th, in closed session for the following purpose:
REAL PROPERTY-CONFERENCE WITH REAL PROPERTY NEGOTIATOR

Property: SurLaBrea Park, 23610 Cabrillo Avenue
Agency Negotiator: LeRoy J. Jackson, City Manager
Negotiating Parties: City of Torrance and Maryann Harwood, Reliant Land Services Inc. for T-Mobile

Under Negotiations: Terms and conditions of lease
SETHA has not been notified by the City of Torrance that a cell phone tower is being proposed by T-Mobile for Sur La Brea Park. We will be watching this very closely because the City of Torrance previously approved a T-Mobile cell phone tower in West Torrance which was adjacent to residential homes. After public outcry, T-Mobile moved the location under the power lines running parallel to 190th Street.

Neil Diamond Tribute Band at Lomita Park

2011-04-03T15:33:00.000-07:00

What: The Fantastic Diamond Band - A Neil Diamond Tribute Band
When: Sunday, April 17, 2011, 3PM
Where: Lomita Park Softball Diamond Outfield, 24428 Eshelman Avenue, Lomita, CA
Call 310.326.0140 for more information. Don't forget your folding chairs, sunglasses,
and hats. No alcohol allowed.
Fantastic Diamond is an incredible live tribute show that takes the audience through a musical journey
of Neil Diamond's greatest hits that span the last forty years. Kevin Hogan and five incredible musicians
have the unique ability to perform and sound just like Neil Diamond. They are scheduled to appear again
this summer at the Polliwog Park concerts in Manhattan Beach. You have the opportunity to hear them
first at Lomita Park. "Song Sung Blue", "Longfellow Serenade", "I'm A Believer" and "September Morn"
are just a few of the songs on the Fantastic Diamond Song List.
John Bailey, President
Southeast Torrance Homeowners' Association, Inc. (SETHA)

May 17, 2011 36th Congressional District Election

2011-04-02T20:55:00.000-07:00

Subject: Vote By Mail Applications for the May 17th 36th Congressional District Election

The Los Angeles County Registrar-Recorder is now accepting online Vote By Mail Applications.
The website is www.lavote.net/ You can also call 800.815.2666 (option 4).

The Vote By Mail Ballot packages will be delivered starting on April 23rd. The last day to submit
a Vote By Mail application is May 10, 2011.

Sandbags for Torrance Residents

2010-12-20T18:43:00.000-08:00

Sandbags for Torrance Residents
Street Maintenance provides free sandbags to residents in Torrance residing in single-family homes and duplexes only. During storms, Street Maintenance orders and fills sandbags for Torrance residents. Each resident can pick up a maximum of 25 filled sandbags at no cost at the City Yard, depending on availability.

Please call the City of Torrance Public Works Department at 310-781-6900 before coming to the City Yard to make sure a crew is available to help load the sandbags into a truck or car. Also, be sure to bring some form of ID (Driver's License) to show residency within the City of Torrance.

During after-hours storm emergencies, Torrance residents may call the Torrance Fire Department at 310-781-7042 for information on sandbag availability.

Torrance PD Crime Log 11/27/2010 to 12/03/2010

2010-12-10T18:20:00.000-08:00

The following incidents were listed in the SETHA area:
2300 Block Sepulveda Blvd Vandalism Suspect(s) tags window at location.
23900 Block Huber Ave Auto Burglary Backpack, tools, cell phone, lap top stolen

Hazardous Waste Roundup Saturday December 11th

2010-12-06T21:16:00.000-08:00

Hazardous Waste Roundup Program

Dispose of Household Hazardous Waste and E-Waste the Right Way!
Saturday, December 11, 2010 9:00am - 3:00pm
Lomita City Hall Parking Lot
24300 Narbonne Avenue
The City of Lomita will host a Household Hazardous Waste Round-up at the City Hall parking lot on Saturday, December 11, 2010 from 9:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. Household hazardous waste includes paint, glue, pesticides, oil (including used motor oil) solvents, cleansers, old medicine, and car and dry-cell batteries as well as electronic waste (computer monitors, TVs, printers, cell phones, old Christmas electric lights, etc.)
Improper disposal of these materials pollutes the City and endangers children, pets and wildlife.
Remember:
•Limit of 15 gallons or 125 lbs per vehicle
•Do not mix items
•Keep original labels on containers if possible
•Place items in a sturdy box in the trunk of your car
•No waste from businesses will be accepted
•No explosives, ammunition, radioactive materials, tires, trash, refrigerators or stoves accepted.

For more information, call (888)CLEAN LA

Missing Child Found

2010-12-01T18:01:00.001-08:00

Torrance Police reported the missing juvenile has been found safe.
12/1/2010 5:50PM

Torrance Police Alert - Missing Child

2010-12-01T16:02:00.000-08:00

Ashley Clark, 13, female, white, 5' 00", 90 lbs. Last seen: 17000 Elgar Ave. Torrance 11/30/10 8:40pm (170th & Crenshaw Blvd)

The Torrance Police Department needs your help in locating a missing juvenile that walked away from her home last night, Novermber 30th, at approximately 8:40 pm. The missing child, Ashley Clark, is described as a 13 year-old white female. She is 5' 00” tall and weighs approximately 90 pounds with brown hair and green eyes.

She was last seen at her residence in the 17000 block of Elgar Avenue in Torrance wearing a blue hooded sweatshirt, blue jeans and brown converse tennis shoes. If anyone has seen this child, or has any information as to her whereabouts, please call 911 or contact the Torrance Police Department at 310-618-5641 immediately.

For full details, go to https://local.nixle.com/alert/4206542/?sub_id=84369. A picture
of the child is available on this website.

Free Holiday Light Exchange

2010-12-01T12:51:00.000-08:00

FREE Holiday Light Exchange Brightens the Season
Thursday, December 2 - 9:00 am

This is a popular event, so come early!

The City of Torrance is participating in the Annual Holiday Light Exchange sponsored by SBESC on Thursday, December 2 at City Hall in the West Annex.
SCE customers* may bring up to two old sets of electricity-guzzling holiday light strands containing any number of lights or color and exchange them for up to two new LED 100 bulb, multi-color holiday light strands (no white this year) - - supplies are limited. LED holiday lights use 80% less energy than the old ones and will last 100,000 hours, which is about 20 years!
Participants must bring their SCE bill or drivers license to validate the address, and will be required to sign in. (SCE customers from any city may participate Thursday.)
Location:

Torrance City Hall - West Annex

3031 Torrance Blvd

9:00 am SHARP!

Santa Float Schedule 2010

2010-11-22T20:29:00.000-08:00

Santa will be escorted by members of the Torrance Police Department in Southeast Torrance on the following dates:

Tuesday, November 30, 2010           Sepulveda Blvd to 239th Street, Crenshaw Blvd east to Arlington
Leaves the Police Station at 5PM     begins on 239th Street and ends on 227th Street

Wednesday, December 1, 2010        Sepulveda Blvd to 242nd Street, Arlington east to Western Avenue
Leaves the Police Station at 5PM       begins on Gramercy and ends on 230th Street

In case of rain, the float will be cancelled. There will only be 3 make-up days this year.

Rotten Egg Smell in Southeast Torrance

2010-11-15T16:44:00.000-08:00

On Monday, November 15th about 1PM a "rotten egg" smell wafted through the air in Southeast Torrance. The culprit turned out to be an open sewer line at 250th Street and Western Avenue.

Early Morning Construction at Hull

2010-11-14T20:06:00.000-08:00

Construction activity at the new Hull Middle School site on 231st Street will begin at 4AM on Wednesday, November 17th. Concrete pouring will begin about 5AM.

Del Amo Blvd Extension Groundbreaking

2010-11-07T16:30:00.000-08:00

Del Amo Boulevard Extension Project Groundbreaking
Tuesday, November 9, 2010
4:00 PM
Del Amo Boulevard (West of the Del Amo Boulevard and Crenshaw Boulevard intersection), Torrance

The City of Torrance breaks ground on the Del Amo Boulevard Extension Project. The project will complete the missing segment of Del Amo Boulevard between Crenshaw Boulevard and Maple Avenue and it will widen the existing segment of Del Amo Boulevard between Maple Avenue and Prairie Avenue.
Upon its completion, Del Amo Boulevard will be a four-lane divided roadway within the project limits and provide an additional east-west route throughout the City. Construction also includes a new bridge over the Burlington Northern Santa Fe railroad tracks, drainage improvements and relocation of existing utilities. Traffic signals will be added on Del Amo Blvd at Maple Avenue and Mariner Avenue.

Friday Morning Early Wake Up Call

2010-11-01T19:31:00.000-07:00

This Friday, November 5th, construction activity at the Hull Middle School site will begin at 4:00AM with setup and concrete pouring commencing at 5:00AM.

Suggest you plan on avoid using 231st Street between Arlington Avenue and the front of Hull during the early morning hours.

Grand Opening of the Toyota Automobile Museum

2010-11-01T10:20:00.000-07:00

The Toyota USA Automobile Museum is hosting a Grand Opening to celebrate the newly relocated and expanded Museum on Tuesday and Wednesday, and you're invited! Normally, Museum Tours are by appointment only.

You will have a unique opportunity to tour the 33,000 square foot Museum and view the 100+ cars on display -- including Toyota, Lexus and Scion cars and trucks dating back to 1958, along with more than a dozen historic racing vehicles. A history of Toyota’s operations in the U.S. and around the world also is part of the Museum display.

Vehicles on display at the museum include:
- A 1958 Toyota Crown, the first Toyota sold in America
- A 1965 Toyota Corona, Toyota’s first high volume car in the U.S.
- The 1967 20000GT, one of the stars of the James Bond movie “You Only Live Twice.” A racing version of the 2000GT also is on display (only 9 were made & three are in the Museum)

- The championship winning race cars including off-road stadium trucks, IMSA Celica and GTP race cars and an Indianapolis 500 winner.
- A 1986 Corolla, the first Toyota built in the U.S. and several other serial No. 1 vehicles marking the launch of production at various U.S. and Canadian plants
- Original Lexus and Scion models first launched in the U.S.
Here are the details . . .
When: Tuesday, November 2nd - 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM (wear your "I voted" sticker & receive a free gift)
Wednesday, November 3rd - 7:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Where: Toyota USA Automobile Museum - 19600 Van Ness Avenue, Torrance
Info: Susan Sanborn - 310.468.4728 or Susan_Sanborn@Toyota.com
Cost: Free
Refreshments will be served.
The Museum is also hosting a Canned Food Drive for Harbor Interfaith Shelter & Fish Pantry Tuesday and Wednesday -- your donation will feed a needy family.
John Bailey, President
SETHA

Concrete Pouring At Hull School

2010-10-08T20:46:00.000-07:00

A flyer has been distributed around Hull Middle School notifying residents that on Friday, October 15, 2010 concrete will be poured for the new foundation beginning
at 5AM. Mark your calendars and avoid 231st Street between Cabrillo and Arlington.

A New Torrance Newspaper

2010-10-06T21:08:00.000-07:00

Herald Publications will be delivering a free newspaper to Torrance residents in the 90501,90503 and 90505 zip codes on the 4th or 5th of November 2010. It will be a weekly paper with 16 to 25 pages with just local Torrance news.

The website, http://www.heraldpublications.com/, will be available on Saturday, October 9th. Herald Publications currently publishes the El Segundo Herald, Manhattan Beach Sun, and three other local papers.

They are looking for paid part-time writers and photographers who are interested in submitting articles and pictures. You may contact them at management@heraldpublications.com.

Del Amo Boulevard Extension

2010-09-23T20:30:00.000-07:00

On Tuesday, September 28, 2010, the Torrance City Council will consider appropriating federal-aid grant funds and award an agreement for the Del Amo Blvd Extension at a cost of $10,638,723.00.

The extension will complete the missing segment of Del Amo Blvd between Crenshaw Blvd and Maple Ave. The new route will be a four-lane divided street and add a new east-west route through the city.

A new bridge will be constructed over the Burlington Northern Sante Fe/Metro tracks. New traffic signals will be added on Del Amo Blvd at Mariner Avenue, Maple Avenue and Madrid Avenue. The existing signal at Del Amo and Crenshaw will be modified.
Construction on the new road will start in November 2010 with a November 2012 completion.

Interim Urgency Ordinance by the City Council

2010-09-10T21:44:00.000-07:00

The Torrance City Council at the Tuesday, September 14, 2010 meeting will consider adopting an interim urgency ordinance enacting a moratorium on the issuance of any permits or licenses for new massage and acupuncture establishments in the City of Torrance.
In 2002, the city had only 14 licensed massage businesses and fewer than 60 licensed massage technicians. As of August 31, 2010, there were 44 licensed massage businesses. In the past eight years, the City's number of licensed massage businesses has more than doubled and it number of licensed massage technicians has more than quadrupled. The are concomitant negative effects on the quality of life within the community and impacts to the Police Department's ability to provide a safe and secure community.
From January 2009 to August 31, 2010, there have been a total of 13 convictions for lewd conduct, prostitution and immoral massage. From December 2009 to February 2010, six massage establishments have had their business licenses revoked. Seven acupuncture establishments were cited for lewd conduct and prostitution. Six establishments did not have acupuncture equipment or supplies. There are currently 42 licensed medical acupuncture establishments in the City.
On September 1, 2009, the California Legislature enacted Senate Bill 731 which effectively gutted local control over the licensing of massage establishments and massage technicians. SB 731 made it difficult to control criminal activity associated with these types of businesses.

We are passing this information along so you can be aware of the concerns in the community and the limitations placed on law enforcement activity.

65th Anniversary of the End of World War II

2010-08-11T21:49:00.000-07:00

Saturday, August 14, 1945-2010. It was a day of celebration, a day like no other. AMVETS Department of California and the Spirit of 45.org invite you to a special event honoring the legacy of the Greatest Generation of World War II.

Saturday, August 14, 2010, 1PM to 10PM
Garden Grove Elks Lodge #1952 (off the 22 Fwy btwn Euclid St and Harbor Blvd
11551 Trask Avenue
Garden Grove, CA 92843

1PM to 6PM    WWII 1940-1945 historical displays
7PM to 10PM Victory Canteen Dance with the Bill Elliott Swing Orchestra. Please wear your vintage allied military or civilian attire.
6PM                Swing Dance Presentation and Lesson.
7PM                Bugles Across America Program will play Taps.
Food and beverages will be available for purchase.
Fashion Show of the War Years.
The event and the dance are free to the public. Donations will be accepted.
For more information go to http://www.spiritof45.org/ The Spirit of 45 website has a link to President Truman's VJ Broadcast to the Armed Forces and a Radio Broadcast from Times Square.
For more information, contact 714.614.1269
John Bailey, President SETHA

Youth Volleyball at Sur La Brea Park

2010-08-11T15:57:00.000-07:00

The United State Youth Volleyball League (USYVL) will have a boys and girls 8-week volleyball league at Sur La Brea Park this fall.

When: Thursday, September 9, 2010 to Saturday, November 6, 2010
Where: East end of Sur La Brea Park

Days: Thursdays 5:30 to 6:30PM and Saturdays 10 to 11 AM

Price: Regular Registration $145 until 8/15/2010
Age Divisions: 7-9, 10-12, 13-15 (Age as of 11/1/2010)

USYVL is a volunteer organization and does not require any fundraising.
Questions? Call 888.988.7985 Website http://www.usyvl.org/
John Bailey, President SETHA

Locomotive Horns

2010-08-07T15:43:00.000-07:00

A Daily Breeze Letter to the Editor on August 6th expressed concerns about the train noise in Torrance. Here is some additional information on this issue.

Burlington Northern Santa Fe (BNSF) operates trains through eight-at-grade crossings including two in Southeast Torrance at Sepulveda/Walnut and Western/South of Sepulveda Blvd.

In 2005, the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) established standards for sounding locomotive horns. In Torrance, where the trains travel at less than 45mph, the operator must sound his horn/whistle for at least 15 seconds before the lead locomotive enters the crossing. The operator should continue blowing the whistle until the lead locomotive passes through the crossing. Failure to do comply can result in a FRA fine of $27,000.00. The federal rules require that all train sound horns at between 96 and 110 decibels at all public crossings.

The FRA 2005 rule making process also established a process by which local governments can establish "quiet zones," which remove the requirement for train operators to routinely sound their horns at crossings.

On April 20, 2010, the Torrance City Council voted to spend $39,892.00 to create conceptual exhibits and provide a conceptual cost estimate to establish a Quiet Zone that would silence the sound of train horns at eight at-grade crossings WITHIN the City limits. That DOES NOT INCLUDE the crossing at Western Avenue in Southeast Torrance. There was no public speakers for or against the study at the City Council meeting.

The City of Torrance must consider liability issues when establishing quiet zones. When a quiet zone is established, liability for any accidents in the quiet zone is shifted from the railroad owner or transit operator to the local government. Since quiet zones are relatively new, little case law has been established to date. FRA and railroad documentation indicate that quiet zones may increase the likelihood of accidents at crossings. In its consideration of establishing quiet zones, City Council will need to weigh the trade-offs and consider the costs of assuming liability. This consideration was not mentioned in the staff report at the April 20, 2010 meeting.

City staff gave a rough estimate of $2million to $10million to construct the eight quiet zones. The estimated time for complete the study was four months or August 2010.

John Bailey, President
SETHA

Update on Cell Phone Towers

2010-08-02T15:58:00.000-07:00

The City of Torrance Telecommunications Committee met on the
petition of T-Mobile USA Inc (Southbay Properties, LLC) for approval of a
Telecom Permit to allow the collocation of a telecommunications facility with 12
antennas designed as a false tree by increasing the height of an existing pole
on property located at 2216 Sepulveda Blvd at Arlington Avenue (SW corner).

This was a continuation of a 2009 meeting.
The Telecommunications Committee approved the false tree, a 59 foot mono-pine
and six equipment cabinets located within a 16-foot tall enclosure. The new
tree replaces a 52.5 foot monopalm currently serving Sprint Nextel. The new
mono-pine will serve both Sprint Nextel and T-Mobile. The elements of the false
tree including branches and pine needles will start 25-feet above ground level.
The three sets of four antennas will be at the 53 foot level.
The following alternate locations were considered for the project:
22836 Arlington Ave rejected due to proximity to residential land uses
2186 Sepulveda church landlord not interested
2205 Sepulveda Walgreens landlord not interested
2191 Sepulveda Landlord not interested
2215 Sepulveda KFC - no space
2225 Sepulveda no space
2237 Sepulveda no space
Ed Gala, T-Mobile was asked the status of two other cell phone towers that T-Mobile filed for in 2009.

Gala advised that T-Mobile has responded to the comments from the residents and
found new locations for the two towers.
The cell phone tower proposed adjacent to the private pre-school at 225th and
Eriel Avenue will be moved east to the strip mall on the
SW corner of Crenshaw Blvd and Sepulveda Blvd. The owner of the strip mall
property previously appeared at a Telecommunications Committee meeting and
expressed interest in discussing locating the tower on his property.

The cell phone tower proposed adjacent to the residential area at the corner of
Anza Avenue and Carmelyn Street will
be moved north to the plant growing area under the Edison high voltage power
lines. A young couple with two pre-school children appealed
this tower to the Planning Commission and had to pay a $250 appeal fee. The
Planning Commission concurred with our recommendation that the
Telecommunications Committee did not comply fully with the applicable city
ordinance on cell phone towers and required additional information from
T-Mobile. It appears T-Mobile has decided to find a new location instead of
furnishing the necessary information to the Telecommunications Committee.
Hopefully, the City will refund their appeal fee.

The City of Torrance does not receive a huge amount of tax revenue from cell
phone towers on private property. Annual leases from cell phone towers in this
area are around $24,000 to $27,000 a year. There is no franchise fee like you
pay on your Time Warner cable bill. A utility tax would be charged for the
electricity to power the equipment but there is no royalty tax for the amount
of data transmitted by the tower.

Thank you to the residents who attended the Planning Commission and
Telecommunications Committee meetings to express your opinions. It motivated
T-Mobile to change the locations and also "adjusted their attitude" about
cooperating with the residents.

Cleanup Plan for Methane at Hull Middle School

2010-07-08T22:37:00.000-07:00

A draft plan called a Removal Action Workplan (RAW) to cleanup methane and
prevent methane hazards at Torrance Unified School District’s (TUSD) Hull Middle
School is available for public review and comment. Methane gas was found in the
soil above acceptable levels at the school site located at 2080 231st Street in Torrance.

This Fact Sheet provides a brief summary of:
Why Cleanup Is Necessary
History and Operations at the Site
Environmental Investigations
Proposed Cleanup Options
California Environmental Quality Act

Next Steps

Where to Find the Documents
Who to Contact for Information
Why Cleanup is Necessary
There is no immediate health risk to the public. Methane does not pose an
immediate health risk to the public. However, because the accumulation of methane in
buildings is a potential explosion hazard, DTSC recommends that TUSD prepare a plan
to reduce methane levels, prevent methane from accumulating inside future buildings
and protect future school site occupants. DTSC will oversee the removal action and
ensure that it is performed in a manner that does not harm people or the environment.
Fact Sheet, June 2010

Cleanup Plan for Methane at Hull Middle
School Available for Review
Public Comment Period
June 16, 2010 – July 15, 2010
The draft RAW and other related project documents for this school site are available
for review and public comment at the locations listed on page 3. The DTSC will make
a final decision after all public comments have been reviewed and considered. Please
submit written comments in the enclosed postage paid envelope postmarked by July
15, 2010; or by email before the deadline date to:
Jeanne Matsumoto, Public Participation Specialist
5796 Corporate Avenue, Cypress, CA 90630
Please send email comments to: jmatsumo@dtsc.ca.gov

For additional details go to the DTSC website at http://www.dtsc.ca.gov/ and enter Hull
Middle School in the search tab.

Madrona Marsh Closed

2010-06-25T19:34:00.000-07:00

The City of Torrance’s Madrona Marsh Preserve will be closed for a period of time as a health precaution.
On Thursday, June 24, 2010, the Los Angeles West Vector Control informed the City of Torrance of a potential West Nile Virus presence at the Madrona Marsh Preserve located at 3201 Plaza del Amo.

The City of Torrance places high priority on the safety and well-being of all community members. As such, the City is committed to providing safe facilities where community members can enjoy programs, events and activities.
With this in mind, the City decided to close the Preserve as a precautionary measure until a resolution can be reached.

City staff will be meeting with Vector Control on Tuesday, June 29, 2010 to discuss the issue and determine a course of action. The City’s goal is to reopen the Preserve as soon as possible without compromising the health and safety of visitors.
The City asks for and appreciates the cooperation and patience of visitors and residents as staff addresses this issue. The community will be advised upon the Preserve’s reopening. For more information please contact the Madrona Marsh Nature Center at (310) 782-3989.

3rd Annual Southeast Torrance Neighborhood Garage Sale

2010-05-20T21:36:00.000-07:00

The Third Annual Southeast Torrance Garage Sale will be held on Saturday, June 12, 2010 from 8:00AM to 12:00 Noon. This is a multi-family, neighborhood garage and yard sale which attracts a lot of buyers.

There will be advertising in several papers, maps will be distributed by Joi Kimoto/Realtor at her home across from Sur La Brea Park and the address of everyone
participating will be listed on the maps. This garage sale was a huge success last year!

If you are interested in participating, please contact Debbie Meyers @ 310.539.3105 or debkens25@yahoo.com. You must reside in Southeast Torrance which is the area between Sepulvada Blvd on the north and the Lomita city limits on the south & Crenshaw Blvd on the west and the L.A. city limits on the east.

Please register by Sunday, May 23rd to allow time for planning the event.

King Harbor Sea Fair and Open House

2010-05-13T12:46:00.001-07:00

The Coast Guard will join the public and members of the King Harbor Yacht Club

for a day of fun with an emphasis on boating safety for this year's “Sea Fair"

Boating Safety Open House on Sunday May 16, 2010 from 1:00 to 6:00 p.m.

Sea Fair will feature a man overboard demonstration and person-in-the-water

recovery exercise in addition to a planned search and rescue demonstration

featuring a HH65C Dolphin rescue helicopter from Coast Guard Air Station Los

Angeles. The demonstrations are planned to take place in the main channel of the

Redondo Beach Marina beginning at 3PM.

There will also be boating safety exhibits, a life jacket “fashion show, live

music by the Big Torpedos as well as free refreshments courtesy of the King

Harbor Yacht Club. This event is open to SETHA members and the public.

King Harbor Yacht Club is located at 280 Yacht Club Way, Redondo Beach, CA

90277. For more information go to www.khyc.org

--

JPL Open House

2010-05-13T12:45:00.001-07:00

NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory, Pasadena, Calif., invites the public to a close-up look at JPL's past, present and future at its annual Open House on Saturday, May 15, and Sunday, May 16, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. The event, themed "Worlds Beyond," features displays and demonstrations from numerous space missions, and a first look at JPL's recently renovated von Karman Visitor Center.

On special display will be the JPL-built Wide Field and Planetary Camera 2, retrieved from NASA's Hubble Space Telescope last year by space-walking astronauts. The instrument, affectionately known as the "Camera that Saved Hubble," is on loan from the Smithsonian Institution's National Air and Space Museum. The camera captured many of Hubble's iconic space images.

Other Open House highlights include: seeing JPL's next spacecraft bound for Mars, Mars Science Laboratory, under construction in the lab's largest "clean room;" life-size rover models in a "Mars" test bed; and JPL's Microdevices Lab, where engineers and scientists use tiny technology to revolutionize space exploration. Visitors can also see the sun through solar-safe telescopes, and learn how NASA instruments help scientists better understand global climate change.

JPL Open House provides a memorable experience for adult and kids, with plenty of hands-on activities, and opportunities to talk with scientists and engineers. Selected locations at Open House will be featured live online on Ustream TV at http://www.ustream.tv/channel/nasajpl on Sat., May 15, at 10 a.m., 11 a.m., noon and 1 p.m. Pacific time (1, 2, 3 and 4 p.m. Eastern time). Each time slot will feature a new location at the top of each hour.

JPL is located at 4800 Oak Grove Drive, Pasadena, Calif., 91109. Admission to Open House is free. Parking is also free, but is limited. To get to JPL, take the Berkshire Avenue/Oak Grove Drive exit from the 210 Freeway in La Canada/Flintridge. All visitors should wear comfortable shoes -- no buses will be provided from JPL parking lots. JPL will provide vans for mobility-challenged guests.

Vehicles entering NASA/JPL property are subject to inspection. Visitors cannot bring these items to NASA/JPL: weapons, explosives, incendiary devices, dangerous instruments, alcohol, illegal drugs, pets, all types of skates including skateboards, Segways and bicycles. No bags, backpacks or ice chests are allowed, except small purses and diaper bags.

John Adams Elementary School 50th Birthday Celebration and Carnival

2010-04-23T10:08:00.000-07:00

John Adams Elementary School will hold a 50th Birthday Celebration and Carnival on Friday, April 23rd from 4:30PM to 8:30PM at the school, 2121 West 238th St Torrance.

A presentation at 5:45PM will celebrate the 50 years of John Adams School.

There will be game booths, giant slides, live band entertainment, a bake sale and
food including BBQ Chicken, Tri Tip and Pulled Pork.

Lots of fun for the whole family.

2010-04-09T13:16:00.000-07:00

Torrance Police Department has released the following important message concerning residential crimes in Torrance.
Over the past several months, our City of Torrance has experienced an increase of daytime residential burglaries. The most common method of this increased trend seems to be where a suspect knocks on the door to the residence to see if anyone is home. If no one answers the door, the suspect walks to the rear of the house and forcibly enters via a rear door or window. Once inside, the suspect ransacks the residence and takes items that are easy to flee with (i.e. cash, jewelry, video games, laptop computers, etc). The suspect will make several trips to an awaiting vehicle, then flee the area with another suspect driving the car.
We are asking our community to be more aware of people in their neighborhood who they do not recognize as residents of the block, and/or, individuals acting suspicious.

For example, in two of our recent daytime burglaries, neighbors saw a subject in a neighbor's backyard that they did not recognize as a resident of the house and did not call us. Both of these houses were broken into.
If you can be a good witness, please get the suspect's description, the suspect vehicle description (a license plate would be great) and possibly a direction of travel if you see the vehicle leave the area. Please DO NOT confront any suspect(s) or ask them "what they are doing" or tell them that you are "calling the police."
Please call the Torrance Police Department (310-328-3456) regardless of how insignificant you feel a situation may be. This may result in an arrest of a burglar.

During the week April 1, 2010 through April 7, 2010, the following crimes were reported in Southeast Torrance:

23900 Pennsylvania Ave April 7th Residential Burglary entry via window, ransacked. jewelry and laptop put in bag by suspect but fled when owners returned home.
23000 Arlington Ave April 4-5 Stolen Vehicle 2002 Honda Civic
1700 234th St April 2nd Residential Burglary entry via unlocked rear door, heavily ransacked. laptop, P3 console, $1800 in coins and $10K baseball card collection
1800 Sepulveda Blvd April 2nd Residential Burglary entry via possible unlocked door, heavily ransacked. tv, jewelry, camera, $5k and 3 puppies.

At least two homes were burglarized on Thursday, April 7th in the Old Torrance area,
Madrid, Beech. It may have been a group of three individuals with one as the lookout
while the other two are in the house. Watch out for the old trick on knocking on the
door and trying to sell you something when in reality they hope nobody is home. Don't be hesitant to call Torrance Police if you think something is wrong.

Construction Complaints at Hull Middle School

2010-03-16T22:13:00.000-07:00

I have received several complaints about construction noise on the Hull Middle School athletic fields last Saturday, March 13th.

Apparently 10 semi-truck trailers started a soil removal operation shortly after 7AM. The City of Torrance Municipal Code does not allow construction to begin until 9AM on Saturday.

I have sent an email to Dr. George Mannon, Superintendent of TUSD, about this incident. Since Hull is not scheduled to open until September 2011, I also asked if overtime was being paid for this Saturday work.
John Bailey, President
SETHA

2010-03-05T19:46:00.000-08:00

SETHA will hold a meeting on Wednesday, March 10, 2010, in the John Adams Elementary School Cafeteria, 2121 West 238th Street, Torrance from 7:00PM to 9:00PM.
The proposed Rockefeller Group Professional Center project will be presented at the meeting. Representatives from the Rockefeller Group and Sheridan-Ebbert will be available to answer questions about the project.

Elections of officers will also be held at the beginning of the meeting.

This project is approximately 351,200 square feet of medical/office, professional office and light industrial condominium buildings, to be developed in two phases.
The location is at 2740 Lomita Blvd on the vacant lot north of Costco.

There will be three two-story medical office buildings, seven two-story professional office buildings and one two-story light industrial building. Approximately 14 acres would be in Phase I and 9 acres in Phase II. Open space around the buildings will include trees, shrubs, groundcover and outdoor seating areas.

This vacant land previously was occupied by Archer Pipe & Tube Supply, Eden National Steel and Teledyne INET.

Phase I of the project would generate 387 AM peak hour trips, 461 PM peak hour trips and 3.976 daily trips. At full occupancy, the project is forecast to generate 664 AM peak hours trips, 812 PM peak hour trips and 7,107 daily trips.
The "big box" home improvement center originally proposed for half of the property met its' demise at the SETHA meeting held in November 2007 with the Rockefeller Group.

A public hearing by the Torrance Planning Commission is scheduled for Wednesday, March 17th at 7PM in the City Council Chambers on the proposed project.

Rockefeller Group Professional Center on Lomita Blvd

2010-02-18T11:00:00.000-08:00

The Final Environmental Impact Report (FEIR) for the proposed Rockefeller Group Professional Center at 2740 Lomita Blvd (vacant land north of Costco) will be available on February 19, 2010. The FEIR will be on line at http://www.torrnet.com/8663.htm in addition to the public counters in the City Clerk's Office, the Katy Geissert and Southeast Branch Torrance Public Libraries and the Community Development Department Planning Counter.

This project is approximately 351,200 square feet of medical/office, professional office and light industrial condominium buildings, to be developed in two phases.
Approximately 14 acres would be in Phase I and 9 acres in Phase II. Open space around the buildings will include trees, shrubs, groundcover and outdoor seating areas.

Traffic concerns discussed at the SETHA meeting with Rockefeller are addressed in the FEIR. A new signal will be installed on Lomita Blvd and the deceleration lane at the entrance on Lomita Blvd is included in the FEIR.

Constructon of Phase I would take approximately 12 months.

There will be three two-story medical office buildings, seven two-story professional office buildings and one two-story light industrial building.

This vacant land previously was occupied by Archer Pipe & Tube Supply, Eden National Steel and Teledyne INET. It is my understanding the previous owner of the property planned on building high-density residential housing on the site.

A public hearing by the Torrance Planning Commission has been scheduled for Wednesday, March 17,2010 at 7PM on the project.

John Bailey, President SETHA

Trash Pickup Day is One Day Late This Week

2010-02-16T21:47:00.000-08:00

Due to President's Day on Monday, February 15,2010, trash pickup
will be on Friday, February 19th this week.

Update on Cell Phone Towers in the Area

2009-12-08T13:18:00.000-08:00

T-Mobile USA wants to increase the height of an existing cell phone tower at 2216 Sepulveda Blvd and install a new 50-foot cell phone tower with 12 antennas next to
a children day care center on Eriel Avenue (the old AAA Club parking lot).

The T-Mobile cell phone website indicates there is adequate coverage in the already in the two areas.

The City of Torrance Telecommunications Committee held a second meeting this morning on the two applications and continued the items to allow additional time for the City of Torrance to engage an outside technical consultant to present information not provided by T-Mobile. T-Mobile did not show that higher priority locations were either not available or are not feasible; establishment of a facility on a new false tree is necessary to provide service and lack of such a facility would result in a prohibition of service.

Again this morning a number of residents spoke against the cell phone tower in the proposed location and commented about the article in the Daily Breeze where T-Mobile indicated "they are not looking to move the tower one inch". In fact, the residents have suggested alternate locations in the area but to no avail.

Naming of the Dee Hardison Sports Center

2009-10-30T19:19:00.000-07:00

The Wilson Park Sports Complex Building will be named the
Dee Hardison Sports Center in honor of former Torrance
Mayor Dee Hardison. Dee is a resident of Southeast Torrance
and former President of SETHA.

Date: Friday, November 13, 2009
Time: 3:30PM
Where: Wilson Park Sports Complex
2200 Crenshaw Blvd (cross street - Jefferson)
Torrance CA

2009-10-20T17:35:00.000-07:00

Subject: Torrance Unified School District (TUSD) Meeting on the new Hull Middle School

SETHA has been notified that a TUSD meeting will be held to show renderings for the new Hull Middle School. Drawings of the school site, structure and exterior elevations with
finishes, colors, etc., will be displayed.

What: TUSD Meeting on the new Hull Middle School

When: Tuesday, November 10, 2009
6PM

Where: John Adams Elementary School Cafeteria
2121 238th Street
Torrance CA 90501

SpotCrime Adds Torrance

2009-09-28T19:31:00.000-07:00

SpotCrime is an online crime mapping company, based in Baltimore,Md that collects crimes from all over the world and maps the crimes.

SpotCrime's website is SpotCrime.com and it has added a crime map of Torrance to the list of over 100 United States cities.

The site offers free email and text-messaging based alerts to uses for free. Six areas of Torrance are now working and one area is the SETHA membership area.

Go to SpotCrime.com for additional information.

Traffic Delays Monday September 26, 2009

2009-09-28T11:58:00.000-07:00

Street Oiling is taking place in the following areas today
and may reduce traffic to one lane and/or possible street
closures.

Cabrillo ---- Sepulveda Blvd on the south to Plaza Del Amo on the north.

Plaza Del Amo ---- Arlington on the west to Border Avenue on the east.

Sides streets along Cabrillo and Plaza Del Amo in the above areas.

Intersections of Plaza Del Amo & Cabrillo and Plaza Del Amo & Arlington
are impacted.

It is best to avoid these areas this afternoon.

Port of Long Beach Open House

2009-09-27T11:39:00.000-07:00

The Port of Long Beach's annual open house is Saturday, October 3rd from 10AM to 3PM.

Free Boat Tours
See towering gantry cranes and huge cargo ships on one of the free 45-minute boat tours. Boats depart every 15 minutes but you need to get a ticket at the Harbor Tour Ticket Booth located just past the event entrance. Tickets are first-come, first-served and they go fast, so get there early to get a ticket.

Free Rail Tours
Climb aboard a double-decker Metrolink train to see one of the cargo terminals in action. Watch dockworkers, truckers and crane operators unload containers. Trains depart from the Green Port Fest Train Station every hour beginning at 10:30AM and ending at 2:30PM Be sure to get your free tickets early at the Rail Tour Ticket Booth located just past the event entrance.

There will be local entertainment, food and kids' activities.
There is no parking at the Port of Long Beach. Go to polb.com/portfest for details on free parking and shuttle service.

Candidate Forum for Torrance Unified School District Board of Education, November 3, 2009 Election

2009-09-17T13:03:00.000-07:00

You are invited to the Southeast Torrance Homeowners' Association (SETHA) Inc., Candidate Forum for the Torrance Unified School District Board of Education, November 3, 2009 Election.

When: Wednesday, September 23, 2009, 7:00PM to 9:00PM
Where: John Adams Elementary School Cafeteria
2121 238th Street, Torrance, CA

This is the first forum featuring Torrance Unified School District Board of Education candidates. Each candidate will be asked to discuss their goals
and objectives along with answering audience questions.

Sample ballot booklets are scheduled to be mailed beginning September 24th. An application for a Vote By Mail Ballot can be processed online now at www.lavote.net. Go to Online Services on the right of the screen and click on "Apply for Vote By Mail Ballot. Vote By Mail ballots will be mailed beginning October 5th.

This is your opportunity to learn more about the candidates and talk personally with them.

Weekly Crime Logs on Torrance PD Website

2009-09-14T18:46:00.000-07:00

Weekly Crime Logs Now Available on the Torrance PD Website

The Torrance Police Department is now posting Weekly Crime Logs on their website. These Weekly Crime Logs will include crime information including the general area the crime was committed and information on the nature of the crime. This information is a more detailed format than the general crime statistics already posted on the website. These weekly crime logs are provided to the community in an effort to educate citizens on the actual crimes occurring, the date/time and the general location. Please feel free to share this information with your neighbors and friends.

To view the Weekly Crime Log for September 3rd through the 10th, visit: http://www.torranceca.gov/TPD/Documents/Crime_Log_090309-091009(1).pdf Future logs will be sent with a direct link to the log without this message.

The logs will be posted on the Torrance PD website (Police.TorranceCA.gov) under the "Crime Trends and Prevention" tab and then under the "Crime Statistics" topic. When you go to that tab, you will also see that we are in the process to developing an interactive Crime Activity Map that is scheduled for publication in December of 2009. Together, these formats should help educate the Community on the actual crimes that occur, dispel some of the myths surrounding crimes that "have occurred" and also result in a safer Torrance.

If you have any questions or have any input on current or future formats for this information, please contact the Community Affairs Division at CommunityAffairs@TorranceCA.gov.

John Bailey, President
SETHA

SETHA Members To Be Honored

2009-09-13T11:15:00.000-07:00

Dr. Laurie Love, SETHA Vice President, will be honored by the Torrance City Council on September 15, 2009 for her many years of dedicated service to the community. She first began teaching in 1970 and retired last month from the Torrance Unified School District as Chief Academic Officer.

Dee Hardison, former SETHA President, will be honored by the Torrance City Council for her longtime service to Torrance with a resolution naming the gymnasium at Wilson Park, the "Dee Hardison Sports Center." Hardison was instrumental in the creation of Sur La Brea Park and involved in many of the large community projects including the Wilson Park Sports Center and the Madrona Marsh Nature Center.

Congratulations to Dr. Laurie Love and former Mayor Dee Hardison in receiving this recognition for their outstanding achievements and contributions to the City of Torrance.

When: Torrance City Council Meeting, Tuesday, September 15, 2009
Torrance City Council Chambers Meeting Begins at 7PM

John Bailey, President
SETHA

Lomita Fair

2009-09-10T11:05:00.000-07:00

The 27th annual Lomita Fair will take place on September 11, 12 & 13, 2009 at the St Margaret Mary parish compounds at 25511 Eshelman Avenue, Lomita, CA.
The Fair offers a week-end full of fun, rides, games fantastic food, continuous live entertainment and much more. There will be 17 game booths and the always popular bumper cars.

Friday, September 11th
5PM Opening
5:10PM Didgeridoo Music John Parker
5:15PM Hula Dancer Jackie C
5:30PM The LA Blues Project Band
6:30PM The Lomita Park SooBahnDoMartial Arts
7:30PM Gems of Polynesia Dancers
9:00PM The Geecz Band
11:00PM Fair Closes

Saturday, September 12th

11:00AM Dr. Iven Band
12:45PM Square and Line Dancing Dave Donaldson
1:45PM Filipino Community Dancers
2:45PM Babylon Mood Dancers
4:00PM Shaolin Temple Kung Fu Martial Arts Demo
5:15PM Latin Mirage Dancers
6:30PM Grupo Folklorico-Faisan Dancers
7:30PM Intermission
8:00PM The People's Choice Band
11:00PM Fair Closes

Sunday, September 13th

Noon Chyce/D.E.M. Band
1:00PM Rhythm Regiment Drum Corps SMM Students
1:30PM Elvis Impersonator Brian Mieliwocki
2:00PM Crowning of the Lomita Fair Queen
3:30PM Curtis Smooth Band
4:30PM Flame Dance Academy Dancers
6:00PM Holloway the Band
8:00PM Raffle Drawing
9:00PM Fair Closes

Something for everyone including food, beer/wine pavilion with large screen sports HDTV, carnival rides, games, live entertainment, raffle and craft booths.

John Bailey, President
Southeast Torrance Homeowners' Association, Inc. (SETHA)

Madrona Marsh Fire

2009-06-29T09:05:00.000-07:00

A small brush fire flared up Sunday afternoon, June 28th, at the southwest edge of
Madrona Marsh, but was quickly extinguished by the Torrance Fire
Department. A passerby reported seeing flames and smoke just before 3
p.m. and two engines were dispatched to the marsh, along with several
police units to block northbound traffic on Madrona Avenue.
Firefighters had to remove two ten-foot sections of the fence that
surrounds the marsh to gain access to the fire, which was inside the
fence along Madrona Avenue about fifty yards north of Sepulveda. A
strong breeze from the south was pushing the fire northward, and
observers estimated the burned area at that time was eighty feet long
and ten to fifteen feet wide.
The fire crew went to work, and within fifteen minutes had the fire
completely contained, but by then the burn area was 120 feet long and
had widened to 25 feet its northern end.

The cause of the fire is under investigation and a report will be filed
this week, but it appears to have been started when several mylar
balloons struck power lines, caught fire and plummeted to the dry grass
below. Charred remnants of balloons were found at the base of a
utility pole where the fire started.

Torrance Police Officer Injured

2009-06-13T17:19:00.000-07:00

Press Release Torrance Police Department
Vehicle used as a weapon; injuring a
Torrance Police Officer

On June 13, 2009 the Torrance Police Department responded to the area of Pacific Coast Highway and Calle Mayor regarding a reckless driver.

The vehicle was located shortly before 10 am traveling east on Pacific Coast Highway near the intersection of Hawthorne Boulevard and a vehicle pursuit ensued.

The vehicle evaded officers by traversing commercial parking lots and crossing against the traffic controlled intersection. The vehicle continued east on Pacific Coast Highway at a high rate of speed. A marked Torrance Police car was waiting against the north curb, facing west, monitoring the pursuit. The vehicle then crossed over from east bound PCH into the westbound lanes and proceeded head on towards the police car. The driver of the suspect vehicle intentionally struck the waiting police vehicle as the officer made a last second effort to move
away from the head-on collision. The suspect vehicle struck the police vehicle at a high rate of speed injuring the officer.

The suspect, who was also seriously injured, was extracted from the vehicle by paramedics and transported to a local hospital for treatment. The Torrance Officer was also transported for treatment of moderate injuries.

The suspect was identified as Marianne Greco, 42 years of age, from Redondo Beach
California. Greco was arrested for Assault with a Deadly Weapon on a Police Officer.

This investigation is on-going under the direction Captain David Smith, Commander of the Special Operations Bureau. Anyone with information regarding this incident is asked to contact the Torrance Police Department Detectives Division at 310 618-5570.
Sergeant Bernard Anderson
Public Information Officer
Torrance Police Department
310 618-5688

Lomita Fireworks Celebration

2009-06-12T13:06:00.000-07:00

On Saturday, June 27th, the City of Lomita will host the Founders' Day Fireworks Celebration. There will be exciting performances by local community groups and wonderful music by DJ Robert who mixes a lively and entertaining repertoire of great music. The evening concludes with a spectacular fireworks display.

When: Saturday, June 27th

Time: 6PM Community Group Performances and Music by DJ Robert
9:00PM to 9:22PM Founders' Day Fireworks

////Note: This year the celebration will not be an all day event. In order to save money, the organized show does not start until 6PM////

Where: Lomita Park, 24428 Eshelman Avenue, Lomita, CA

For more details, contact Lomita Parks & Recreation Department at 310.326.6255.

Torrance Symphony FUNdraiser

2009-06-03T22:08:00.000-07:00

Torrance Symphony FUNdraiser

SATURDAY, JUNE 13, 2009
8:00 P.M.

Come and enjoy the Fabulous music played by
The Fabulous Esquires Big Band

Great Entertainment, Refreshments plus
Opportunity Drawing, Silent Auction and a chance to win
a hat decorated with $100 in cash

Tickets: $30 per person

James R. Armstrong Theatre
Torrance Cultural Arts Center
3330 Civic Center Drive - Torrance
Call the box office 310-781-7171 or 310-373-2442 for Tickets and Information.
www.torrancesymphony.org
All proceeds benefit the Torrance Symphony

Saturday, June 13, 2009 - 8 pm

Deviation from Over-Ocean Operations at LAX

2009-05-23T11:20:00.000-07:00

Sent: Friday, May 22, 2009 11:21 PM
To: LAX Stakeholder Liaison
Subject: Deviation from Over-Ocean Operations at LAX on May 23rd & 24th

Please be advised that due to electrical maintenance work being performed this weekend on LAX's north runway complex (Runways 24R/6L and 24L/6R), Over-Ocean Operations will be suspended from Midnight to 6:30 AM on Saturday, May 23rd and Sunday, May 24th as these runways will be closed. When Over-Ocean Operations are suspended LAX remains in Westerly Operations. All aircraft operations will occur on the south runway complex, which will result in increased noise to the residents to the east and south of LAX (South Los Angeles, Lennox, Inglewood, El Segundo, Del Aire, Hawthorne, and portions of the Beach Cities). LAWA apologizes for any inconvenience this causes but this electrical maintenance work is critical to ensure the safety of the traveling public.

Draft EIR on Lomita Project Available for Review

2009-05-08T10:16:00.000-07:00

The Draft Environmental Impact Report for the Rockefeller Group Professional Center at 2740 Lomita Blvd (the vacant lot north of Costco) is available for public review until June 22, 2009.

It is available on line at www.torrnet.com/8683.htm, the Katy Geissert Library, the SE Torrance Library, the City Clerk's Office and the Community Development Department at City Hall.

There is no scheduled city meeting to explain the Draft Environment Impact Report. If you have questions, please contact Gregg Loden, City of Torrance Community Development Department at 310 618 5900.

John Bailey, President
SETHA

Torrance Police Seeking Information on Fatal Traffic Accident

2009-05-06T16:18:00.000-07:00

Fatal Traffic Collision
Incident # 090030194

OnTuesday, 5 May 2009, at approximately 10:56 p.m., officers from the Torrance Police Department responded to a call of a traffic collision with injury inside Guenser Park (17800 Gramercy Place)in North Torrance.

Upon arrival, officers discovered a man trapped beneath an overturned 2004 Hummer H2, as well as evidence that the vehicle had been driven through the park resulting in damage to the grass area. The driver sustained major injuries as a result of the accident and was pronounced dead at the scene. He was identified as a 31-year-old male with an address in Oxnard. His name is being withheld pending notification of family members.

This collision is being investigated by the Torrance Police Department’s Traffic and Special Events Division under the command of Captain David Smith.

If you are a witness to this accident or have any information pertaining to this investigation, please contact Detective Terry Tokle at (310) 618-5560.

Lieutenant J. Megeff
Division Commander
Traffic and Special Events Division

Meeting on the new Hull Middle School

2009-05-05T22:11:00.000-07:00

Torrance Unified School District will be holding a preliminary design meeting
for the new Hull Middle School, 2080 West 231st, Torrance. The proposed opening
date for the new middle school is October 2011.

The project architect will present the site plan for the new campus at the
meeting.

WHAT: Preliminary Design Meeting on the new Hull Middle School

WHEN: Thursday, June 11, 2009, 6:30PM

WHERE: Hull Adult School Cafeteria, 2080 West 231st Street, Torrance

The Hull Adult School housed at the 231st Street location will be closed at the
end of the current semester next month. The demolition contract for the old
Hull Middle School is currently open for bids.

--
John Bailey, President
Southeast Torrance Homeowners' Association, Inc. (SETHA)

NASA's Jet Propulsion Lab Open House

2009-04-30T09:58:00.000-07:00

JPL INVITES PUBLIC TO ANNUAL OPEN HOUSE
Jet Propulsion Laboratory News Advisory

WHAT: NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory, Pasadena, Calif., welcomes the
public to its annual Open House on Saturday, May 2, and Sunday, May 3,
from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. The lab will salute the 40th anniversary of
NASA's Apollo 11 mission - the first human landing on the moon. JPL
will also celebrate the International Year of Astronomy, a United
Nations-endorsed series of events around the world that commemorate
the 400th anniversary of the first telescope observations of space and
planets by Italian scientist Galileo Galilei.

Open House highlights include: seeing JPL's next spacecraft bound for
Mars, the Mars Science Laboratory, in the lab's biggest "clean room;"
talking to scientists and engineers who work on missions to
destinations such as Mars, Saturn, Jupiter and Earth's moon; and
visiting JPL's Microdevices Lab, where engineers and scientists work
in the world of the ultra-miniature. Visitors can also view the sun
through solar-safe telescopes, and learn how NASA instruments measure
greenhouse gases, helping scientists better understand global climate
change.

Besides the many exhibits and displays, the Open House will feature
hands-on activities for children. Visitors can find out how NASA
missions are using new media tools such as Twitter at the "The Tweet
Spot" booth. Portions of the event will also air live online on
Ustream TV at http://www.ustream.tv/channel/nasajpl on Saturday, May
2, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

WHEN: 9 a.m. - 5 p.m., Saturday and Sunday, May 2-3. Admission and
parking are free.

WHERE: 4800 Oak Grove Drive, Pasadena, Calif. From the 210 Freeway,
take the Berkshire Avenue/Oak Grove Drive exit. All visitors should
wear comfortable shoes -- no buses will be provided from JPL parking
lots. JPL will provide vans for mobility-challenged guests.

NOTE: Vehicles entering NASA/JPL property are subject to inspection.
Visitors cannot bring these items to NASA/JPL: weapons, explosives,
incendiary devices, dangerous instruments, alcohol, illegal drugs,
pets, all types of skates including skateboards, Segways and bicycles.
No bags, backpacks or ice chests are allowed, except small purses and
diaper bags.

Evening Scam in residential section of Old Torrance

2009-04-24T21:16:00.000-07:00

Two incidents of the same scam have been reported in Old Torrance.

Each incident has occurred in the evening and the suspect is described as an African American woman dressed in an medical smock frantically knocks on the door. She claims she lives down the street, but none of her neighbors are home. She just got a call --her husband is in construction and injured --or her husband was hurt at work and three of his fingers were cut off. She's got to get to the hospital in San Bernadino, but doesn't have enough gas. She needs money to get gas. She offers to leave her drivers license as proof that she'll pay it back. As it turns out she's hit the area south of Carson a few months ago and again this week. She claims to work at Harbor UCLA.

The woman seems to cry a little and is in a "hurry up" panicked act--it is an act. As it turns out this same woman went to the same house with the same "emergency" a few months ago. So, far we know that she has called herself "Cheryl" and "Rachel," but whatever she calls, and no matter how she pretends to cry, it isn't true.

Call the Torrance Police Department at 911 or 310 618 5642 if this happens to you.

Easter Candy Hunt

2009-03-31T18:12:00.000-07:00

You're invited to Easter In El Prado Park! The Old Torrance Neighborhood Association was founded in 1981. And . . . since its inception, OTNA has hosted Easter in El Prado Park -- 2009 marks our 28th consecutive year! It has become a tradition in our neighborhood. In fact, people that used to come to this event as a child are now bringing their children.

On Easter Sunday, at 10:00 AM, Mr. & Mrs. Bun will arrive at El Prado Park in the bright blue "Bunny Mobile." Both will greet the 100+ kids, pose for Kodak moments, and then . . . Mr. Bun will lead the children in the Bunny Hop. After that, the Easter "egg" (candy) hunt begins - the kids LOVE it! (The parents love it too, 'cause you're outta there by 10:30 AM.)

Bags will be handed out to each child prior to Mr. & Mrs. Bunny's arrival. If your child (niece, nephew, grandson and/or granddaughter) would prefer to bring their Easter basket to collect the candy, they are more then welcome to do so.

We have three areas ribboned-off in the park, so the younger kids are separate from the older kids (this event is for children 11 years of age, or younger). Two areas have one golden egg hidden amongst the candy. Whoever finds the golden egg, takes it straight to Mr. Bun in exchange for an Easter basket brimming with trinkets and treats!

There is a special section called "Peggy's Patch" for children ages 3, and under. This area is dedicated to OTNA's past President, Peggy Basile, who received her "angel wings" on Easter, three years ago.

Here are the details . . .

Who: Old Torrance Neighborhood Association

What: 28th Annual Easter in El Prado Park

When: Easter Sunday, April 12th

Where: El Prado Park (corner of El Prado & Arlington)

Time: 10:00 AM - 10:30 AM

Cost: Free!

Ages: This event is for children 11 years of age, and younger

Easter in El Prado Park is sponsored by ExxonMobil -- they made a gracious donation to fund this special event for our neighborhood kids!

B17 Bomber Coming to Torrance Again

2009-03-31T17:56:00.000-07:00

Have you ever flown on B-17 Bomber? Want to? Next weekend, you'll have a
once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to fly in an authentic World War II B-17 bomber.

Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA) is offering historic flight experiences
in its beautifully restored B-17G Flying Fortress "Aluminum Overcast." Take a
trip back in time and feel the might of this magnificent flying machine, just as
those young men did more than 50 years ago. You can experience a flight, or
simply take a walk-through tour.

Out of over 12,000 bombers that were built, this aircraft is one of handful of
airworthy B-17s still flying. The EAA invites you to reserve a seat for a
flight aboard this rare WWII bomber and experience "the ride of a lifetime."

Here are the details . . .

Who: EAA & the Torrance Air Fair Association

What: B-17 Bomber flights, and walk-through tours

When: Friday, April 10th, Saturday, April 11th and Sunday, April 12th

Where: Zamperini Field, Torrance Airport.
ENTRANCE TO THIS EVENT IS AT ROBINSON HELICOPTER.
FREE PARKING AT ROBINSON HELICOPTER, 2901 AIRPORT DRIVE.

Flight Cost: Pre-booked Flights - $359 per person for EAA Members (E-Z Pay: 4
payments of $89.75); $399 per person for non-members (E-Z Pay: 4 payments of
$99.75)

Walk-up Prices - $385 for EAA Members (E-Z Pay: 4 payments of $96.25); $425 for
non-members (E-Z Pay: 4 payments of $106.25)

Cost of flight helps support the preservation of aviation history and supports
aviation in our very own community!

Reservations: To reserve your seat, call the B-17 hotline at (800) 359-6217,
visit their web site: www.B17.org or email to b17@eaa.org

Flight Times: Rides are 10:15 AM, 11:00 AM, 11:45 AM, 12:30 PM and 1:15 PM

Ground Tour Times: Ground Tours are held after flight operations have stopped
for the day - 2:00 PM - 5:00 PM, all three days.

Ground Tour Cost: $15 - Families (adults & children under 18), $5 - for adults,
FREE - WWII Veterans, and children under 8 accompanied by a paying adult.

The BBQ food featured two years ago during the last fly-in was very popular with the crowd.

There is no admission for this event, and free parking is available at the
Robinson Helicopter Company - 2901 Airport Drive.
--

Southest Torrance Library Reopening

2009-03-27T19:43:00.000-07:00

The Southeast Torrance Library, 23115 Arlington Avenue, is anticipated to reopen on Monday, April 13, 2009 at 11:00AM.

The library has been closed for 3 1/2 months for refurbishment including new carpet, inside paint, electrical upgrade, internet upgrade and a new front desk.

Open House will be held on Thursday, April 23, 2009 from 3:00PM to 5:00PM.

John Bailey,
President SETHA

Gem & Mineral Show @ Ken Miller Rec Center

2009-03-27T19:42:00.000-07:00

The South Bay Lapidary & Mineral Society will be hosting a Gem & Mineral Show this weekend -- Saturday & Sunday, March 28th & 29th. This event will feature special guest exhibitors and demonstrators from the American Opal Society, the Fluorescent Mineral Society, the Route 66 Gold Miners, Inc., and our very own Petrified Forest.

Here are the details . . .

What: Gem & Mineral Show

When: Saturday, March 28th - 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM -- Sunday, March 29th 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM

Where: Ken Miller Recreation Center - 3341 Torrance Blvd., Torrance

Cost: Free admission, parking, and door prizes

Info: 310.318.2170 or Lesneff@aol.com for www.palosverdes.com/sblap

John Adams Elementary School Science Fair

2009-03-24T10:54:00.000-07:00

How many volcanoes will be erupting in the cafeteria this year? Did the recent cold weather play havoc on growing bread mold?

The annual John Adams Elementary School Science Fair is this Thursday night, March 26th, from 6:00PM to 7:30PM in the school cafeteria at 2121 238th St, Torrance. SETHA members are invited to attend the free event.

Judges for the science fair will be Torrance High School students. They will make their selection based on the use of the scientific method, originality, presentation, ability to discuss the project, understanding of underlying concepts, and participation in making the display.

One project from each grade level will be selected to represent Adams at the
District Science Fair on April 2nd.

John Bailey, President
SETHA

Proposed Water Conservation Ordinance

2009-03-21T21:51:00.000-07:00

The Torrance City Council will be considering a Water Conservation Ordinance at the March 24th council meeting. Some of the restrictions include the following:

Permanent Water Conservation Requirements

Limits on Watering Hours

Watering or irrigating of lawn, landscape, etc. is prohibited between 10am and 4pm.

Landscape Irrigation System limited to no more than 15 minutes per day per station.

No Excessive Water Flow or Runoff.

No Washing down hard or paved surfaces, including but not limited to sidewalks, walkway, driveways, parking areas, etcl, except when necessary to alleviate safety or sanitary hazards.

Obligation to Fix Leaks, Breaks or Malfunctions

Limits on Washing Vehicles

Drinking Water Served Upon Request Only

More detailed information can be found on the City Council Agenda for March 24th, items 13B.
John Bailey, President SETHA

Skateboard Park at Wilson Park Closed

2009-03-21T09:30:00.000-07:00

The skateboard park at Wilson Park has been closed due to safety concerns about the extensive damage on the skateboard ramps.

Despite major repairs, the combination of imclement weather and constant use has taken a toll on the eight year old facility.

For more information, contact Carl Kaemerle of the Community Services Department at 310.781.7590.

John Bailey, President
SETHA