Friday, September 19, 2025

Local Congresswoman Demands Federal Disaster Aid for California Be Included in Funding Bill

Lawmakers urge supplemental disaster assistance in Fiscal Year 2026 appropriations, citing urgent recovery needs in California and nationwide

Pasadena Congresswoman Judy Chu joined U.S. Representative Brad Sherman in Washington to call on House Speaker Mike Johnson and Senate Majority Leader John Thune to guarantee disaster relief funding for California and other affected regions in the Fiscal Year 2026 government appropriations package.

Their “demand” responds to the extensive destruction caused by recent wildfires and similar disasters across the country.

“In January, the Eaton and Palisades Fires in Los Angeles County destroyed more than 16,000 structures, displaced tens of thousands of people, and took 31 lives,” Chu and Sherman wrote.

“Since these devastating firestorms, federal, state and local authorities have worked together to clear toxic hazardous waste, remove debris and begin the process of rebuilding the communities of Altadena, in Pasadena, the Pacific Palisades and Malibu. This progress is made possible by the support and assistance provided by FEMA and other federal agencies pursuant to the Major Disaster Declaration on Jan.

Friday, September 19, 2025

Newsom Taps Climate ‘Architect’ To Lead California Air Board As Trump Fights Heat Up

By Alejandro Lazo, CALMATTERS

The California Air Resources Board is getting a new leader at a pivotal moment, as it battles the Trump administration in court and contends with growing scrutiny from Democrats and voters questioning the price of the state’s climate principles.

Liane Randolph has chaired the board of the state’s top air and climate regulator since 2020. She oversaw a range of policies including landmark clean-car and truck rules, a fuel standard with implications for gas prices and the state’s signature carbon trading program, cap-and-trade. This week, Gov. Gavin Newsom nominated his senior climate advisor, Lauren Sanchez, to replace her.

Randolph, in an interview, told CalMatters her departure was part of her “personal journey,” something she began considering earlier this year.

“I’ve worked really hard over the last almost five years, and I’m ready for a break,” she said. “I am confident that the transition will go incredibly smoothly.”

Observers say the handover highlights the air board’s key role at a time of political pushback and consumer resistance.

Friday, September 19, 2025

Mountain View Cemetery Seeks Donations to Pay for Eaton Fire Damage Restoration

Historic Altadena mausoleum sustained smoke, soot damage but avoided flames

Mountain View Cemetery and Mausoleum in Altadena is seeking community donations to help cover restoration costs after the Eaton Fire caused significant smoke and soot damage to the facility.

The historic cemetery, located below the San Gabriel Mountains above Pasadena, survived the fire’s direct flames. Staff had cleared dry brush around the property as a precautionary measure.

The mausoleum remains temporarily closed to the public while cleanup and restoration work continues. Cemetery officials expect to reopen soon to resume services for families who have experienced loss.

“Mountain View Mausoleum, a beloved part of our community’s history, is in trouble,” cemetery staff said in a social media post. “The restoration and cleanup costs from the Eaton Fire are staggering.”

The facility described itself as “an unmatched sanctuary in Southern California” due to its unique location.

Community members are encouraged to donate through Starfish’s secure donation platform. Donors can visit starfishapp.com/non-profit/95-1089970 to contribute to the recovery efforts.

Friday, September 19, 2025

Sheriff’s Stations Donate $22,000 to Altadena Fire Relief

Funds raised through bus pull event presented to local organizations

Local sheriff’s stations presented a $22,000 donation to Eaton Fire relief efforts during an Altadena Town Council meeting.

The Altadena Sheriff’s Station, Temple Sheriff’s Station, and Temple Sheriff’s Station Outreach Fund Team raised the money through a bus pull event last month.

Recipients included the Altadena Rotary Charities and the Altadena Town Council’s Eaton Fire Relief Fund.

“This donation represents more than just dollars,” according to a statement posted by Altadena Sheriff’s Station on social media. “It represents partnership, resilience, and the strength of our community.”

The Eaton Fire caused significant damage in Altadena. Recovery and rebuilding efforts continue throughout the area.

Sheriff’s officials said the donation demonstrates community collaboration. Multiple organizations and residents have worked together on relief efforts.

“When we collaborate, we rise stronger – together,” the statement said.

The bus pull fundraising event brought together law enforcement and community members.

Thursday, September 18, 2025

Workshop to Help Eaton Fire Victims Navigate Property Tax Impacts Set for Sept. 29

Homeowners affected by the Eaton Fire are invited to attend a free workshop titled “Property Taxes and the Eaton Fire: What You Need to Know” on Monday, Sept. 29, from 1 to 3 p.m. at the Pasadena Senior Center.

Presented by Los Angeles County Tax Assessor Jeff Prang, the session will offer clear guidance for fire-impacted residents planning to rebuild or relocate. Topics include how property assessments may shift, what changes to expect, and what county resources are available to support recovery.

Registration is requested at pasadenaseniorcenter.org under the Lectures & Classes menu. The workshop is open to all, and fire victims who provide proof of loss will receive a grocery card.

Organizers say the event is designed to help homeowners make informed decisions and connect with others in the community facing similar challenges.

The workshop is part of the Pasadena Senior Center’s Eaton Fire Community Support initiative, launched within days of the blaze to assist displaced residents.

Thursday, September 18, 2025

LA County Reports First Human West Nile Virus Cases of 2025

CITY NEWS SERVICE

Public health officials Wednesday confirmed the first human cases of West Nile virus in Los Angeles County this year.

According to the county Department of Public Health, four people were hospitalized with the virus between late July and late August. The unidentified patients lived in the Antelope Valley, San Fernando Valley and central Los Angeles areas.

“The first human cases of West Nile virus are an important reminder that we all need to take steps to prevent mosquito bites and mosquito breeding,” Dr. Muntu Davis, Los Angeles County health officer, said in a statement. “Mosquitos thrive in hot weather, increasing the risk of bites and mosquito-borne diseases.”

Davis said people should take steps to reduce exposure to mosquitoes, such as using insect repellents, removing items that hold standing water where mosquitoes can breed, and install door and window screens to prevent the insects from entering homes.

The virus is spread through the bite of an infected mosquito.

Thursday, September 18, 2025

Southern California Edison Announces Community Workshops on Eaton Wildfire Compensation Program

CITY NEWS SERVICE

Southern California Edison on Wednesday announced a series of community workshops for its forthcoming Wildfire Recovery Compensation Program, a claims program the utility said is designed to provide direct payments and fast resolutions to eligible individuals and businesses impacted by the Eaton Fire. 

SCE said it would launch the compensation program later this fall for those who lost homes, businesses or rental properties in the fire. Claims would also cover total and partial structure loss, commercial property loss, business interruption, smoke and ash, physical injury and fatalities, the utility said.

The community workshops include two in-person and two virtual sessions scheduled through this month. During the workshops, participants will have an opportunity to ask questions and comment on the draft program details. Registration information is available at sce.com/directclaimsupdates. 

“The resilience of community members continues to inspire us, yet it’s difficult to witness the challenges they face,” Pedro Pizarro, chief executive of Edison International, the utility’s parent company,

Wednesday, September 17, 2025

Oct. 8 Application Shutoff Approaches for SBA Disaster Loans Following LA Wildfires

Businesses and nonprofits impacted by the Eaton Fire and other Los Angeles wildfires may qualify for up to $2 million in federal assistance

Businesses and nonprofit organizations affected by the Los Angeles wildfires, including the Eaton Fire, have until Oct. 8 to apply for up to $2 million in low-interest federal disaster loans through the U.S. Small Business Administration’s Economic Injury Disaster Loan program, according to the California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services.

The disaster period began Jan. 7, and the loans are available to eligible entities in Los Angeles, Orange, San Bernardino, Ventura and Kern counties. Applicants may include small businesses with fewer than 500 employees, private nonprofits, agricultural cooperatives, nurseries and faith-based organizations that suffered economic losses directly related to the wildfires. Physical damage is not required to qualify.

“SBA loans help eligible small businesses and private nonprofits cover operating expenses after a disaster, which is crucial for their recovery. These loans not only help business owners get back on their feet but also play a key role in sustaining local economies in the aftermath of a disaster,” said Chris Stallings,

Wednesday, September 17, 2025

Red Cross Honors Native American Leaders Who Rescued Families From Eaton Fire

Community leaders recognized for heroic rescues and sustained relief after Altadena disaster

The American Red Cross honored Pow Wow on Parade Foundation leaders Baltazar Fedalizo and Peter Roybal with the Certificate of Extraordinary Personal Action on September 17, spotlighting their courageous rescue of families during the January Eaton Fire. Two others, Kenneth Devine and Theodore Seavers, were also recognized for lifesaving action as the fire, among Altadena’s deadliest, took 19 lives and left hundreds displaced.

The ceremony, running from 5 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., underscored the award’s legacy, created in 1928 to acknowledge untrained Good Samaritans who save lives during emergencies—even without Red Cross training.

“It isn’t the award or recognition, it is the ability to give when it counts, not when it’s convenient, people died that night according to the papers 19 and counting,” said Baltazar Fedalizo, co-founder of Pow Wow on Parade. Fedalizo, an Army/Navy veteran of Chiricahua Apache descent and 2017 Nobel Peace Prize nominee, awoke by habit at 2 a.m.

Wednesday, September 17, 2025

Government: Barger: Rent Relief Action Will Help Struggling Tenants

Supervisors expand rent relief for Eaton Fire survivors; program offers new lifeline for at-risk households in Altadena and portions of Pasadena

A newly expanded Los Angeles County emergency rent relief initiative is expected to benefit struggling households in Altadena, Pasadena affected by the Eaton Fire following unanimous approval Tuesday by the Board of Supervisors.

The program, which specifically targets survivors of the Eaton Fire and other residents facing eviction or housing instability, raises the individual rent relief cap from $5,000 to $15,000 and adds $10 million in funding. The action was announced in an official press release issued by Los Angeles County.

Board of Supervisors Chair Kathryn Barger, whose district includes Altadena, said the amendments are designed to offer “real breathing room” to families rebuilding after recent disasters. “My goal is straightforward: to keep people in their homes and give them stability as they rebuild their lives,” Barger stated in the county’s announcement.

The expanded provisions will allow eligible residents to receive up to six months of rent assistance.