HSCV to host The Pinecrest Flood of ’78

In 1975, the front range of the San Gabriel Mountains above La Crescenta burned off, setting the stage for several mudslides in the years immediately after. In 1978, a massive debris flow came out of Shields Canyon and tore through the new subdivision of Pinecrest, damaging several houses, and nearly killing the Genofile family. The incident was immortalized in a book by John McPhee called, “The Control of Nature,” which has cemented awareness of the dangers of mudslides into the psyche of Southern California. Michael Fife will tell of the story of this event, its causes and its long term effects at the next meeting of the Historical Society of the Crescenta Valley at 7 p.m. on Monday, Oct. 19. Jackie Genofile, who was at ground zero of the flood, will join him to tell her family’s story.

The same scenario faces Crescenta Valley today in the wake of the Station Fire. The Oct. 19 program will conclude with a presentation from Los Angeles County Public Works, who will answer questions about what can be done to help prevent “Pinecrest Flood II.” Presenter Michael Fife is a native of CV, and the son of HSCV member Kay Fife. He grew up in Pinecrest and, although he was a child in 1978, he is fascinated with the story. He brings this information to the community as a cautionary tale, and wants residents to be aware of the dangers they face this winter.

The meeting will be held at the Center of Spiritual Living at the corner of Dunsmore and Santa Carlotta. There is no charge to attend.

Backstage Tour of the Historic Alex Theatre

A backstage tour of the Alex Theatre takes place at 10 a.m. on Saturday, Oct. 24. The theatre is a remnant of the grand movie palaces that were a highlight of the golden age of Hollywood. It has been lovingly restored and serves the city today as its premier arts venue. The Friends of the Alex Theatre, an all-volunteer group that provides support for this historic theatre, is offering an exclusive backstage tour to reveal the theatre’s history. Alex Volunteer Andrea Humberger will provide an overview of the venue’s 82-year history, restoration process and current activities and programs. She’ll explain the background of the architecture, sculpture and other art objects that grace the interior and exterior. This will be a walking tour that includes climbing many stairs. This tour is not recommended for small children.

Meet in front of the Alex Theatre, 216 N. Brand Blvd. in Glendale. Validated parking is provided in the Orange Street Parking Garage, one block west of the theatre.

This tour is free, thanks to the Friends of the Alex Theatre.

Navajo Dancers coming to CV Park

Crescenta Valley Sierra Club Group will present “Angeles Pena’s Navajo Dancers” at the west end of Crescenta Valley Park from noon to 2 p.m. on Sunday, Oct. 24 at Honolulu and Dunsmore avenues. Pena will narrate as three dancers and a drummer illustrate the dances from the Navajo culture. Pena is a member of the Forest Service and has recently been on the fire line battling, with many others, the devastating Station fire.

This event is open to the public. It is free and families are welcome. Call Wayne Fisher for further information at (818) 353-4181. Rain cancels this program.

Fashion show fundraiser planned

The Patrons’ Club of Glendale Community College is planning a fundraiser for scholarships for deserving students. The event is being held on Friday, Nov. 6, at the

Castaways Starlight Ballroom, 1250 Harvard Drive, Burbank.  The theme this year is

“Up, Up, and Away.”

The annual fashion show will feature ensembles from Holiday Hats & Gowns of Montrose. Tickets are now available at $45. per person.  For reservations, call (818)

249-5443 or (818) 249-3075.

Frida’s to host October mixER

The Glendale Latino Association will have its October mixer at Frida’s at 750 Americana Way in Glendale at 5:30 p.m. on Wednesday, Oct. 28. The entrance fee is $10.