Amid ICE Policy Changes, SMMUSD
Reaffirms Commitment as “Safe Haven”
District Pledges
Continued Protection for Students
Following Federal Policy Shift
In response to recent changes in federal policy regarding immigration enforcement at sensitive locations, the Santa Monica-Malibu Unified School District has reiterated its dedication to serving as a safe haven for all students, regardless of immigration status.
Dr. Antonio Shelton, Superintendent of SMMUSD, along with the Board of Education, expressed concern over the administration’s decision to overturn the sensitive locations policy, which previously protected schools from Immigration and Customs Enforcement activities.
“The Santa Monica-Malibu Unified School District remains steadfastly
committed to ensuring that every student, regardless of their immigration status, has access to a safe, secure, and nurturing learning environment,” Dr. Shelton stated in an email sent to parents, students, and staff.
The district emphasizes that the policy change does not override the constitutional right to education for children, nor does it affect state constitutional protections. A court order would be required for any enforcement actions within school premises.
SMMUSD’s Board of Education has previously adopted Resolution No. 16-15 on December 15, 2016, which commits to the education of all children and the protection of undocumented students’ rights. This resolution underscores the district’s values of mutual respect, dignity, and fairness, and it reaffirms the right to education for all students as established by the U.S. Supreme Court’s decision in Plyer v. Doe (1982).
A new resolution will be presented to the school board on February 6, 2025, to reaffirm this commitment. Details and resources will be available on the district’s dedicated webpage, accessible from the “What’s Happening” section on each school site’s homepage. The district does not collect documentation about citizenship or social security numbers during enrollment and emphasizes strict adherence to data privacy regulations. Families in need of immigration-related support are directed to the Immigrant Legal Resource Center (ILRC).
Santa Monica’s Cherished Cassia to Close After
Nearly a Decade After Series of Setbacks
Incredible Southeast Asian-Inspired Restaurant Cites
Rising Costs, Financial Challenges
Cassia, the acclaimed Southeast Asian-inspired restaurant, will close its doors in February after nearly a decade of operation, the owners announced on Instagram. The restaurant, which first opened in 2015, cited financial challenges, rising operational costs, entertainment industry strikes, and the recent wildfires as contributing factors to its closure.
This is 2025 second high profile closure in the month of January, following Culver City’s Lustig’s farewell last weekend. It is concerning that such a popular and amazing restaurant that has been around for nearly ten years would be moved to shutter the eatery for these reasons and a few weeks of light customer traffic.
It is an alarming and unfortunate
trend for anyone who loves food culture in Los Angeles as well as a loss to the Westside community.
To give customers a final chance to dine at Cassia and provide employees time to transition, the restaurant will remain open through most of February, with its final service scheduled for Saturday, Feb. 22.
Owners Kim, Bryant, Zoe, Josh, Colby, and the RC Family thanked patrons for their years of support.
“These years have been truly special, and we’re so grateful for every moment shared with you,” they said.
“We were fortunate to survive the pandemic and have enjoyed our wonderful 10-year run, but like many restaurants, we faced new challenges over the past few years,” the owners said in a statement. “While we’ve done our best to adapt, these circumstances have rendered us unable to continue to operate.”
Cassia, located in downtown Santa Monica, became a staple in the city’s dining scene, known for its Frenchand Vietnamese-inspired dishes. The restaurant’s team also expressed
sympathy for those impacted by the recent wildfires, calling the devastation an “unprecedented event that will reshape our city.”
“Cassia has been more than a job— it’s been a place where friendships were built, skills were honed, and memories were made,” the statement said. “Some members of our staff have been with us since day one. Saying goodbye to them will, in many ways, be the hardest part of all of this.”
California's Fire Safety Evolution: Meeting Modern Wildfire Challenges
SMa.r.t.
Santa
Monica Architects for a Responsible Tomorrow
The devastating fires that struck Los Angeles in January 2025 echo a pattern of increasingly destructive wildfires reshaping California's approach to fire safety. To understand our current challenges, we must examine how fire safety regulations have evolved, particularly following the watershed 2018 Camp Fire in Paradise, California, which exposed critical gaps in the state's fire prevention strategies. Before 2018, California relied primarily on property-based approaches to fire safety, centered on Public Resources Code Section 4291's requirement for 100-foot "defensible space" around structures in fire-prone areas. While CalFire maintained guidelines for fuel reduction and vegetation management in Wildland-Urban Interface (WUI) areas, these measures proved inadequate against the unprecedented intensity of modern wildfires, spawned by climate change creating increasingly ferocious winds casting embers up to two miles into densely populated areas.
The Paradise fire catalyzed a fundamental shift from individual sites
toward comprehensive, community-wide protection strategies. This new approach encompasses enhanced buffer zones, stricter building codes, and improvements towards and recognition of the natural WUI mega-fire risk. Communities now require expanded fuel breaks, strategic vegetation management, better-planned evacuation routes, and sophisticated early warning systems. As such, building codes now mandate ember-resistant vents, fire-resistant siding, and noncombustible requirements for deck and patio construction.
Los Angeles has a complex topography as region's extensive WUI zones stretch across canyons and hillsides, with unusual development patterns. The County faces unique challenges to put in place safety measures such as pre-burns for brush along the foothills – most of that under Federal control. Additionally, dense development of buildings built before 1970 in high-risk areas like the Hollywood Hills, Pacific Palisades, Altadena, and Malibu complicates evacuation planning and resource allocation.
The administrative complexity of Los Angeles County compounds these challenges. The region must coordinate not only Federal assistance but also between 88 different cities within the county, each with
its own building codes and enforcement mechanisms. This jurisdictional overlap creates bureaucratic processes that can delay crucial improvements of safety. The strain on resources became particularly acute during the multiple same-day megafires when an unequitable distribution of firetrucks and crews occurred between affluent and less affluent areas.
As referenced, and often overlooked, is
that nearly half of California's land falls under federal management, including significant portions around Los Angeles, while only about three percent is managed by the state, with 97% by the Feds. This jurisdictional distribution makes wildfire mitigation heavily dependent on action and resources from the Feds. Recent years have seen an ongoing staffing crisis within the Continue on page 11
Quake Strong Steps Up to Help Rebuild Los Angeles
The recent wildfires in greater Los Angeles have left a devastating mark, claiming lives and destroying entire neighborhoods.
For more than 180,000 residents forced to evacuate, the loss is unprecedented. Amid the communitywide the heartbreak, Quake Strong, Inc., a construction and investment firm, has stepped forward to help rebuild.
The company’s principals — Paul Kalt, Michael Bitton, and Jason Green — bring more than 100 years of combined Southern California construction experience to the table. Through this devastation, Quake Strong’s mission is clear: to help restore what’s been lost and provide a fresh start for their community.
“We have very deep roots in this community, and it’s horrible to see so many families lose everything,” said Green. “But we’re in a great position
to help. From design plans and permits to construction, we can handle all of it, which will be especially important for those who don’t know where to start after a disaster like this.”
A Full-Service Rebuilding Partner
Quake Strong specializes in highend custom home builds, multifamily properties, and beachfront developments. The company’s approach is comprehensive while managing every detail of the rebuilding process, including navigating complex city regulations, obtaining permits, and even coordinating with the California Coastal Commission for affected properties. Quake Strong is well suited to guide homeowners through the often daunting process of working through insurance claims.
“Insurance companies have their own processes, which can sometimes leave homeowners feeling unsure about what they’re entitled to,” explained Bitton. “I went through this myself after the 1994 Northridge earthquake. That’s why we have private adjusters on our team — to advocate for homeowners and help them get the support they need.”
The Road Ahead Rebuilding after a disaster of this scale is never quick. Under normal
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circumstances, a full rebuild might take 18 months to two years with all the complex building requirements and special clearances. However, natural disasters often lead to expedited permitting and zoning approvals.
“We’ve seen cities fast-track the approval process to help communities recover,” said Kalt. “That said, there are still hurdles, especially for those juggling work, family, and rebuilding their lives. Our goal is to make this as seamless as possible, so homeowners don’t have to stress about the details.”
For properties under the jurisdiction of the California Coastal Commission, like most homes in the Pacific Palisades, Quake Strong’s experience in navigating these nuanced regulations will be invaluable.
“It’s a little more complicated, but we know the system well and have worked on these types of projects before,” Kalt added. “We’re ready to help rebuild the city we love.”
A Commitment to Community Quake Strong isn’t just about construction — it’s about community. The partners emphasize their commitment to standing by homeowners from start to finish, providing complete solutions to rebuilding, every step of the way.
“Rebuilding is more than just construction; it’s about giving people hope and helping them move forward,” said Bitton. “We’re honored to be a part of that.”
To learn more about Quake Strong, Inc., or to connect with their team, visit QuakeStrong.com.
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County Supervisors Launch $32.2M Recovery Fund for Wildfire Victims
It will work in partnership with community organizations to distribute aid efficiently and equitably
In response to the catastrophic wildfires, the Board of Supervisors has launched the Los Angeles County Fire Recovery Fund. The initiative, proposed by Supervisors Lindsey P. Horvath and Kathryn Barger, was unanimously approved to offer financial relief to those affected by the fires, including homeowners, renters, workers, small business owners, and nonprofits.
The fund, initially backed by $32.2 million from American Rescue Plan Act allocations, aims to provide direct cash assistance to expedite recovery efforts. The fires, which began on January 7, 2025, have led to the destruction of
over 14,000 structures, with the final tally expected to rise as assessments continue.
“These fires have devastated our communities, destroying thousands of homes, businesses, and livelihoods,” said Supervisor Horvath in a release. “This fund ensures that those impacted have the support needed to rebuild their lives with an emphasis on equity for those most severely affected.”
Chair Kathryn Barger highlighted the fund’s role in immediate relief, stating, “The Recovery Fund will meet the urgent needs of our residents and businesses with flexibility and responsiveness.”
The Fire Recovery Fund will provide direct financial aid to those whose lives and livelihoods were disrupted by the wildfires. It will work in partnership with community organizations to distribute aid efficiently and equitably. The outreach and application processes are designed to be accessible across different cultural and linguistic groups. Additionally, the county will continue to seek additional funding as recovery needs evolve.
This local initiative will work alongside state and federal recovery programs. Governor Gavin Newsom has proposed $2.5 billion in emergency funding, while federal support focuses on debris removal and emergency measures. The county fund serves as an immediate lifeline until these broader resources are available.
The administration of the fund will be handled by the Department of Consumer
and Business Affairs, with directives to prioritize those who lost homes, businesses, or jobs in the fires. Special attention will be given to vulnerable populations including low-income individuals, those with limited English proficiency, people with disabilities, and those ineligible for other aid. For more on the Fire Recovery Fund, visit recovery.lacounty.gov.
Man Sentenced for 2022 Santa Monica Beach Parking Lot Murder
Evidence from the crime scene and subsequent investigative efforts culminated in the LA County District Attorney’s Office charging
Mohamed Abou-Arabi, a 25-yearold from Dearborn, Michigan, was sentenced on January 13, to 25 years to life in prison for the murder of a man found stabbed in a Santa Monica beach parking lot in 2022.
On November 2, 2022, Santa Monica Police Officers were dispatched to Lot 1 North, located just north of the Santa Monica Pier, following reports of suspicious circumstances. A parking attendant had discovered a man unresponsive in the driver’s seat of a vehicle, showing signs of bleeding. The victim was later pronounced dead from stab wounds.
Investigations led by the Santa Monica Police Department (SMPD) identified Abou-Arabi as the suspect. Evidence from the crime scene and subsequent
investigative efforts culminated in the LA County District Attorney’s Office charging Abou-Arabi with murder, enhanced by the use of a knife in the attack. An arrest warrant was issued for him.
In January 2023, SMPD detectives traveled to Michigan, where they arrested Abou-Arabi. After a trial in September 2024, he was convicted of First-Degree Murder. The sentencing included an additional one-year enhancement for the use of a knife.
Quiet Luxury: What’s Inside the New Regent
Boutique and Sweet July
The Regent Santa Monica Beach, known for its perfect Santa Monica getaways, or local dining at its Mediterranean-based restaurant Orla by Michael Mina, is home to two of the resort’s luxurious gems: The Regent Boutique and Sweet July.
Heading the boutique is highly experienced curator Regina Cherepinsky, a former brand manager and vice president of marketing for the Kardashian Kollection, who has specialized in luxury retail management for beauty, lifestyle and fashion brands for nearly two decades.
“Those experiences along with my love for travel and understanding the shopping experience while traveling helped me mindfully curate the Regent Boutique
and its focus on female-owned designers, minority-owned brands and local brands that give back or have done good work within the fashion industry,” Cherepinsky said. “Our boutique is specific to Regent and the hotel, but the wonders inside could standalone.”
From jewelry to clothing and keepsakes, Regent Boutique offers a unique, approachable and shoppable experience comprising a number of beloved brands and stories behind each one.
“We carry jewelry from beautiful designers that use raw materials and diamonds to craft the most excellent pieces, and another brand we adore is Love is Project that creates beaded bracelets that in turn, empower women in developing countries to get fair wages,” Cherepinsky said. “Every item and story behind the brands we carry struck a chord with us in some way.”
Regent Boutique is open to the public and resort guests.
“I’ve curated this for the traveler who wants to shop for cozy cashmere or swimwear on her travels, or for locals who’d like to dine at Orla and take a peek at what’s inside the boutique, or the other beautiful outlets within the resort, we have something special for everyone,” Cherepinsky added.
A LOCAL FAVORITE, SWEET JULY
Another Regent Santa Monica Beach outlet that hosts a number of surprises is Sweet July, a grab-and-go cafe brand founded by Ayesha Curry, an entrepreneur, chef and wife of Golden State Warrior Stephen Curry.
The café offers a full espresso menu, coffee bar, pastries, wine, kombuchas, fresh-pressed juice, snacks and more. Ayesha’s hope for the brand Sweet July is to encourage everyone to find their own version of it — whether it’s a feeling, a thought, or phrase, she hopes it will become a movement. Sweet July at Regent Santa Monica Beach is the first cafe location outside of Oakland, California, where the brand’s flagship store is located.
In partnership with renowned Chef Michael Mina, whose newest culinary venture is Orla, also located at Regent Santa Monica Beach, the two have created restaurant concepts in several locations in California and Nevada.
Regent Santa Monica Beach is proud to offer an extension of Curry’s Sweet July brand, which leans into the coffee perspective with crafty syrup, different than traditional syrups. The brand integrates her background into the menu with Jamaican beef patties and Jerk chicken, some of the local favorites.
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Pacific Park Joins Effort to Support Wildfire Relief
Although the devastating Pacific Palisades and Eaton fires that took lives and scorched over 40,000 acres didn’t touch Pacific Park at the Santa Monica Pier, the impact was close to home for the amusement park.
Nearly two miles from the Pacific Palisades, evacuations were close to the world-famous Santa Monica Pier.
Although still open, Pacific Park has turned its focus on helping wildfire victims and spreading the word on how to donate to the American Red Cross, The California Community Foundation and Santa MoniCARES — three organizations that are helping Southern California wildfire victims find relief.
In addition, they are assisting Palisades Charter High School to raise funds for building replacement and repairs.
Immediate needs include restoring the tech infrastructure, finding temporary space for in-person instruction, funding additional buses for sports and team competitions (none can happen on campus), and replacing lost equipment. To donate directly to Pali High, please go to go.PaliHigh.org/RaisePali.
Looking toward the Ferris wheel, Pacific Park has activated a campaign to support wildfire relief in view of thousands of amusement park visitors. The nine-storytall Pacific Wheel illuminates with direct contact information on how to donate to relief organizations and find resources and information about the wildfires.
“That’s the most important thing for us right now, we want to help the community, that is so important to the Pier. These are people who grew up coming to the Pier and people who work here. The biggest thing we can do for them is raise money,” said Nathan Smithson, Director of Marketing and Business Development for Pacific Park.
Residents and guests are invited to a special “Locals' Night for Fire Relief” on Thursday, January 23 from 3:30-10 p.m.
The Santa Monica Pier, Pacific Park and KTLA will host a fundraiser for LA fire relief to support Palisades Charter High
School, Red Cross, Santa MoniCARES and other local efforts during the evening. In addition to much needed fundraising, it’s a night of music, connection, and care for the community. Guests will enjoy amazing entertainment including youth activities, a car show, local DJs and so much more.
“Non-profit organizations are on the front lines working directly with schools, businesses, and families who have lost so much”, Smithson said, “We hope to amplify the message that the most impactful way to help our neighbors is through monetary contributions to the organizations on the ground directly helping those affected by this disaster.”
Working over the weekend with Trumpia, an automated texting software company, messages were activated on the Ferris wheel this week to ensure maximum exposure.
“Trumpia’s sales manager was very helpful in making this happen, they offered tremendous support for us and this fundraising campaign,” Smithson said. “Usually, text codes take up to 14 weeks to create, but we had to expedite the process because of the fires and Trumpia was understanding of that.”
While setting up this campaign, Pacific Park is also working with Santa Monica Travel and Tourism on additional resources. Updating often, the organization compiles a
list of resources available to those in need, including special hotel rates for wildfire victims and first responders. The list can be found here.
“We’re going to try to make this campaign as citywide as possible.” Smithson said.
“There are incredible organizations in Los Angeles and Santa Monica doing food and clothing donations for victims and we’re thankful to see the community, nonprofits and businesses stepping up and supporting one another.”
Pacific Park recommends a few trusted resources for information including the City of Santa Monica and Los Angeles County, regularly updated with information on closures, impacts and resources, as well as critical updates and summaries of activity related to the fires.
“As this dynamic situation continues to unfold, there will be more opportunities to collect and distribute in-kind donations and services. At this time, the most impactful way to help those in need is through monetary contributions to organizations with the infrastructure to get those funds to those in need quickly and efficiently,” Smithson added.
Venice Shorts: Chamber Welcomes Wallerstein as New CEO
The Venice Chamber of Commerce announces Karin Wallerstein’s appointment as its new chief executive officer
By Nick Antonicello
A long-time Venetian and active community member who brings experience, dedication, and passion to her new role as chief executive officer.
A fourteen-year Venice resident, Wallerstein has been deeply involved in the local community.
She has served on the Venice Chamber of Commerce Board for three years, most recently as Membership Director. Karin also serves as Vice President of the Santa Monica Rotary Club, where she has led philanthropic initiatives and worked tirelessly to support that city.
“I am honored and excited to lead the Venice Chamber of Commerce into its next chapter,” said Wallerstein. “With the
blend of the unique Venice character and the Chamber as a catalyst for economic growth, we can see a thriving Venice for all to enjoy!”
Karin earned a Master’s Degree in Criminal Justice and Research from John Jay College in New York City and has devoted her time and leadership skills to various community efforts. In addition to her work with the Chamber and Rotary Club, Karin is a Notary Public. She believes in teamwork and collaboration and is eager to foster strong relationships within the Venice community to drive growth and opportunity.
Karin steps into the role as the Chamber bids farewell to Donna Lasman, who is moving on and exploring new possibilities after 14 years of dedicated service. Donna has been a cornerstone of the Venice Chamber, overseeing numerous initiatives and fostering community engagement.
Reflecting on her tenure, Donna shared: “I am grateful and honored to have served the Venice community and blessed to have worked with so many gifted and dedicated people who have generously volunteered their time and talents to support the Chamber and Venice. I am confident that Karin’s leadership, abilities, energy, and passion are perfect for the new and exciting direction for the Chamber!”
The Venice Chamber of Commerce is thrilled to welcome Karin Wallerstein as its new CEO and looks forward to an exciting new chapter under her leadership. The Chamber and the Venice
neighborhood will continue to grow and thrive, building on the strong foundation established by Lasman and the board members who served during her tenure as CEO.
Open Arms Art Show Runs Through Feb. 21 in Burbank
More than an art show, the Open Arms Exhibition is an experience of Los Angeles’ cultural history of theater, performances, songs, art and more, that now runs through Feb. 21.
Held at Ambience Doré, a modern furniture store with more than 25 years in business, Open Arms is a retrospective show featuring two artists whose lives have been dedicated to art and impact.
Foremost, this powerful exhibition showcases the life and fascinating career of Native American Latino SoCal playwright, producer, activist and artist Josef Rodriguez White Cloud Wolfhawk Eagles Xochipillicueponi Quetzalkanbalam “Doc” and contemporary visual artist Mar Dorè, known as M3.
Doc’s “When Quasars Suck and Black Holes Blow,” “Songs of the Singing Glyphs” and “Wormholes Rock in Dead Tattoos” depicts alternative realities of ethnic life: lucha libre figures, mythic cultural symbols, a mother earth figure and skulls moving through the multiple wormholes of alternate parallel worlds.
M3, a 1989 graduate of the San Francisco
Art Institute, is premiering the never-seen original Metal Giest series of 3D paintings and contemporary explorations in all mediums that has been intentionally kept off the internet and out of public exposure. For M3, it represents a lifetime of development.
During the show, guests will take a step back in history to see grassroots theater and hear songs with lyrics and scripts still pertinent to today’s time. On the left side, you’ll find a fascinating story of the career of how Doc emerged from the farming community in Fresno. Doc’s opportunities throughout high school flourished when he won the National Forensics’ Original Oratory Championship in 1962.
More opportunities dawned, which led Doc to producing one of the first minoritywritten plays, “El Manco” produced in American Theater at the Los Angeles Inner City Cultural Center in 1968. From there, Doc worked with Luiz Valdez in the early ‘70s in San Juan Bautista.
Doc carried on the tradition of the theater through his 1992 production of “The Get Lost Again Columbus Opera” premiering for the National Indigenous People’s Days Protest in Berkely. Written in history as the first native American Opera, you can discover the full history in person at the Open Arms Exhibit.
On the gallery’s right side is M3’s contemporary works from small, intricate “magic hands” art pieces to large, ten-foot wall pieces. Inspired by nature, energy from the sea, mountains from rock climbing in Yosemite in the ’80s, Mardi Gras Indians of Nola.
Open Arms Exhibition shares Doc’s songs and poems. As you step into the center of the room, experience the video
performance of the 1992 Berkeley “Get Lost Again Columbus Opera” and read about the work Doc and M3 did with the Indigenous community of Nueva Catalina De Ixtahuacan, Guatemala.
Recently, Doc has experienced some medical issues that inspired M3 to celebrate his life through the Open Arms exhibit.
“I wanted Doc to feel honored for his creative life’s work and this art show was something we’ve wanted to do for a long time. Now is the time for him to shine while he is able to appreciate it. Doc has titled all our shows and my works of art, including
this show,” M3 said. “We welcome all with open arms to see the work and be inspired to celebrate your own history, try new things and keep dreaming.”
Open Arms Exhibition is open for viewing Tuesday- Thursday from 3 to 6 p.m., Fridays and Saturdays until 8 or 9 p.m. until February 21, 2025, at Ambience Dore, 831 S. Main Street, Burbank, CA 91506. To read Doc and M3’s full biography, visit AmbienceDore.com/open-arms-art-show. For appointments, call 818-478-1444 or email mar@ambiencedore.com
U.S. Forest Service, driven by budget cuts and inadequate compensation, severely limiting the capacity for both preventive measures and initial fire response.
Prescribed burns represent one of the most effective strategies for reducing nature’s fuels for catastrophic wildfires, but implementing these measures requires substantial public investment. We know the Feds have essentially rejected a belief in carbon emissions as an issue requiring government assistance. This policy supports their withdrawal from controlled burns on federal lands for example. Rather than address the overwhelming scientific evidence for human-caused climate change, the Feds employ a framework that philosophers call "burden of proof reversal." This shifts discussions to emphasize how to save the economic costs of climate action. The clever rhetorical tool disguises policy as maintaining internal consistency while they ignore engagement with the truth of climate science.
The complex political dynamics between city, county, state, and federal governments is now evident to all as needing mutual coordination in implementing new codes for fire safety measures. There is resistance from homeowners on their wealthy hillside property values, and from developers
protest against the cost of complying with new building requirements. Although Environmental regulations add another layer of complexity, the recent streamlining of Coastal Commission’s oversight of recovery developments has helped reduce regulatory timeframes.
To assist in the coordination a three-zone approach to fire safety has been adopted: a 5-foot hardscape perimeter around houses, a 30-foot buffer zone for tree-plants, & perhaps building locations, and a 100-foot zone for tree limb and vegetation spacing. However, implementation faces significant challenges, not only from residents and builders but including shortages of qualified contractors and limited availability and cost of fire-resistant building materials during recovery periods.
As climate change continues to exacerbate wildfire risks, these challenges become increasingly urgent. The County’s 5,000 square miles, multi-governing entities, with the federal government, make it a crucial testing ground for advanced fire safety strategies that could serve as models for other similarly at-risk communities worldwide. Success developing the models will require stronger regional cooperation, more equitable resource distribution, and creative financing solutions to support necessary infrastructure improvements.
Fortunately, in response to these unprecedented challenges, the State has unveiled an innovative private-sector financial initiative marking a significant step forward in the city's recovery efforts. Led by LA’s prominent community leaders this initiative has committed an initial $100 million to support recovery efforts. This development represents a fortuitous crucial partnership between public and private sectors in addressing the estimated $250 billion in damage caused by recent fires, which destroyed over 12,000 homes, businesses, school, and other structures with displacement of more than 100,000 residents.
This initiative will work in concert with existing aid programs, and it demonstrates the kind of innovative solutions needed to address Los Angeles's complex megafire safety challenges. That said, moving forward with recovery, it is to be cautioned and guarded against real-estate-investmenttrusts (REIT) and similar private entities buying up large areas of the fire-damaged areas. These purchases have occurred in other disaster areas, not necessarily burnout and rebuild areas, and reduces the opportunity for home ownership, particularly for those less affluent who are less prepared, or underinsured, and must sell to survive. The predicament being the
What about are you protected from future wildfires?
Our hearts go out to all those impacted by the recent wildfires and Santa Ana windstorms in Southern California. We extend our deepest sympathy to everyone affected in these challenging and uncertain times.
While we are not equipped to fight wildfires, A Plus Tree’s dedicated team of certified tree care professionals is here to assist you with post-fire tree emergencies. Whether it's hazardous trees, fallen branches, or fire-damaged trees, we're here day and night to help. A Plus Tree is a certified professional tree care company. We have over 25 years of experience in fire cleanup, fuel mitigation and defensible space. If your property was not damaged in the fire, now is the time to create defensible space around your property. Defensible space is a buffer zone around your home that considers vegetation type and land layout. Vegetation buildup is a catalyst for wildfires and clearing
loss of their ability for future ownership, prompting leaders after the Eaton Fire to display signage that “Altadena is not for sale.”
Through careful analysis of barriers to debris removal and rebuilding, Los Angeles can work toward a more fireresilient future while preserving its unique character. The combining of public resources, private sector innovation, and community support, provides a blueprint for how modern cities can adapt to and overcome the growing challenges posed by climate change and wildfire risk. Succeeding in these efforts will depend on unprecedented cooperation between federal, state, and local authorities which will be strengthened by this significant private sector commitment to the city's recovery and future resilience.
Jack Hillbrand AIA for SMa.r.t. Santa Monica Architects for a Responsible Tomorrow
Samuel Tolkin, Architect & Planning Commissioner; Thane Roberts, Architect; Mario Fonda-Bonardi AIA, Architect; Robert H. Taylor AIA, Architect; Dan Jansenson, Architect & Building and Fire-Life Safety Commission, Michael Jolly, AIRCRE; Jack Hillbrand AIA, Architect & Landmarks Commissioner; Phil Brock, SM Mayor (ret)
away excessive, fire-prone vegetation significantly reduces risk of wildfire damage! There are several strategic approaches you can take related to trees, shrubs and plants that can materially mitigate fire hazards on your property.
• A complimentary Defensible Space
assessment to determine your properties needs
• Remove small flammable vegetation.
• Remove DEAD TREES or limbs that are dangerous fuel suppliers to fires.
• Prune and trim trees to create vertical and horizontal distancing from your structures.
• Document multi-year history of preventative action taken by you for your insurance. Use of our proprietary mobile app that records all history of care for each tree.
For a complimentary assessment for your property, simply contact us at www.aplustree.com and fill out a request for proposal. You can also call 866-815-2525.
We are keeping you and your loved ones in our thoughts and prayers. May you all stay safe!
With love and respect, The A Plus Tree Team and Family
