California Conservation Corps Works to Protect Ocean from Contamination in Malibu Fire Recovery

On Wednesday, January 29, 2025, crews from the California Conservation Corps (CCC) were seen installing silt socks, straw wattles, and silt fencing around fire-damaged properties and vehicles at Malibu Beach. The effort is part of the CCC’s ongoing mission to protect local watersheds following the Pacific Palisades Fire.

The Palisades Fire, which broke out on January 7, 2025, in Los Angeles' Pacific Palisades, quickly escalated into a catastrophic event due to fierce Santa Ana winds and prolonged drought conditions. The wildfire burned more than 23,000 acres, destroyed over 12,000 structures, and forced the evacuation of approximately 150,000 residents from Pacific Palisades, Malibu, and parts of the San Fernando Valley. At least five lives were lost, and many others were injured. Powerful winds hampered firefighting efforts, grounding aerial support and allowing the flames to spread rapidly. While recent rainfall helped extinguish the fire, it also created new hazards, including the threat of mudslides and debris flows in the already devastated region. By January 27, 2025, evacuation orders were lifted, allowing recovery efforts such as debris removal and utility restoration to begin.

According to California Conservation Corps (CCC) Public Information Officer Chris Van Horne, the CCC has deployed 26 teams from across the state in collaboration with the California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services (Cal OES). Crews from the Tahoe and Solano centers are working to mitigate environmental damage caused by the fire. These measures aim to prevent hazardous contaminants from burned materials from entering watersheds and the ocean, a task especially critical in Malibu due to the proximity of fire-damaged properties to the coastline. With rain and runoff posing a significant threat to the area’s waterways, the CCC’s efforts are vital for safeguarding environmental and public health.

The CCC, an emergency response agency with nearly 50 years of experience, engages young adults aged 18 to 25 in paid service to the state. These crews, who typically focus on forestry and trail work, have been mobilized to assist in recovery efforts across Los Angeles County. Their efforts in Malibu are part of Cal OES’s Watershed and Debris Flow Task Force and represent an important first step in the region’s recovery.

For more information about the California Conservation Corps and its initiatives, visit ccc.ca.gov.

PALISADES FIRE AFTERMATH: Volunteer Ministers Assist Families in Salvaging Belongings

Volunteer Ministers Assist Homeowners in Palisades Fire Aftermath

Pacific Palisades, CA — On Tuesday, January 28, 2025, the Church of Scientology's Volunteer Ministers were on the ground assisting in the aftermath of the devastating Palisades Fire. Among those receiving aid were local residents Jarad Fisher and his wife Lara, who worked with the volunteers to sift through the remains of their home, searching for any personal items that survived the blaze.

The Palisades Fire, which ignited earlier this month, left a trail of destruction across Pacific Palisades, Malibu, and neighboring communities. Fueled by powerful Santa Ana winds and exacerbated by drought conditions, the wildfire scorched over 23,000 acres, destroyed more than 12,000 structures, and displaced approximately 150,000 residents. While recent rains helped quell the flames, they also brought new challenges, such as the risk of mudslides and debris flows in the affected areas.

In response, the Volunteer Ministers have mobilized to provide critical relief to those impacted. Operating from their base at the Church of Scientology of Los Angeles, they have delivered water, food, and essential supplies to affected families. Their efforts extend beyond immediate aid, offering hands-on assistance in the recovery process by helping homeowners salvage belongings and begin rebuilding their lives.

The Volunteer Ministers program, established more than three decades ago by Scientology founder L. Ron Hubbard, is rooted in the belief that individuals can make a meaningful difference in their communities. The group has become known for its humanitarian efforts, assisting in disaster zones and collaborating with public service organizations worldwide.

“Something can be done about it” is the motto that drives the Volunteer Ministers, whether they are responding to local disasters or global crises. From the aftermath of 9/11 to Southeast Asia’s 2004 tsunami and the 2010 Haiti earthquake, they have brought hope and practical assistance to those in need.

As the Palisades community begins to recover, the Volunteer Ministers remain committed to aiding residents through this challenging time. For more information or to seek assistance, visit their Los Angeles Fires Resource Center.

Recovery efforts in Pacific Palisades and neighboring areas are ongoing, with crews focusing on debris removal, utility restoration, and supporting displaced residents as they rebuild their lives.

Polish ‘Forrest Gump’ Completes Epic U.S. Journey with Police Escort at Santa Monica Pier

Tomasz Sobania, the 26-year-old Polish ultra-runner dubbed the "Forrest Gump of Poland," completed his monumental cross-country journey across the United States on Sunday, finishing at the iconic Santa Monica Pier. The 3,300-mile expedition, which began on September 15 in New York City, culminated in a grand finale escorted by Santa Monica Police officers, including Police Sergeant Woodham, an avid runner who joined Sobania for the final stretch. Sobania’s journey, which involved running a marathon (26 miles) every single day for five months, was designed to connect with Americans and experience the country in a deeply personal way. Along his route, he carried the Freedom Flag of the United States, which was presented to him in Washington D.C. by members of Congress. The final leg through Santa Monica was a celebration, as fans and followers gathered at the pier to greet and congratulate Sobania. The Santa Monica Police Department’s squad car led the way, ensuring a safe and triumphant conclusion to his epic journey. The runner, who has completed other major endurance challenges in Europe, called this adventure a unique opportunity to "get to know America coast to coast." “This was not just about running. It was about people, connections, and pushing beyond limits,” said Sobania, whose mantra, “Do More Than You Ever Thought Possible,” has inspired many along his route. His previous achievements include running 500 miles across Poland and completing 950 miles from Poland to Rome, where he met Pope Francis. Sobania’s commitment to endurance running and cultural connection solidifies his place as a global ambassador of perseverance and unity. Santa Monica, with its sunny coastline and vibrant atmosphere, provided the perfect setting for the culmination of this inspiring journey. Fans cheered as Sobania crossed the finish line, adding one final unforgettable moment to his extraordinary adventure.

Angel of Hope: Artist Honors Palisades Fire Heroes with Stunning Mural on Santa Monica Beach

On a rainy Sunday, January 26, 2025, artist Kuba Skrzypek (@skrzypekstudio) a wall at Perry's Beach Café into a powerful tribute to the resilience and heroism of Los Angeles firefighters. The mural, featuring a firefighter rescuing a woman with angelic wings, symbolizes the city's enduring spirit in the wake of the devastating Palisades Fire. Skrzypek, a visiting artist from Poland, took to the brush during his short vacation in Los Angeles. The wings on the woman are a nod to the City of Angels, while the mural serves as a poignant reminder of the bravery displayed during the fire, which ignited on January 7, 2025. Later that evening, Skrzypek was set to head to the airport to return to Poland. The Palisades Fire left an indelible mark on the community, scorching over 23,000 acres, destroying more than 12,000 structures, and displacing over 100,000 residents across Pacific Palisades, Topanga, and Malibu. As recovery efforts continue, this mural captures the hope and strength of a city still healing. Skrzypek’s artwork not only immortalizes the heroism of first responders but also provides a focal point for reflection and unity amid the ongoing rebuilding efforts.

President Trump Tours Pacific Palisades Fire Damage with K9 Units on Scene

On Friday, January 24, 2025, President Donald Trump visited Pacific Palisades to witness firsthand the devastation caused by the Palisades Fire. During his visit, President Trump boarded Marine One for an aerial tour of the fire-ravaged region, including Pacific Palisades, Topanga, and Malibu. In the video, Marine One can be seen flying over the impacted areas, showcasing the extent of the destruction. Following the helicopter tour, President Trump visited Sunset Boulevard, where he and First Lady Melania Trump walked through a neighborhood lined with the remnants of destroyed homes. President Trump spoke with firefighters and met with a few residents, acknowledging their resilience and the efforts of first responders working tirelessly in the aftermath of the disaster. The Palisades Fire, which ignited on January 7, 2025, scorched more than 23,000 acres, destroyed over 12,000 structures, and displaced more than 100,000 residents across Pacific Palisades, Topanga, and Malibu. Recovery efforts are ongoing, with local, state, and federal agencies collaborating to clear debris, restore utilities, and ensure the area is safe for residents to rebuild. This visit underscores the ongoing national attention and support for the impacted communities as they navigate the challenging path to recovery.

Miniature Horse Plays Keyboard to Bring Smiles to Evacuated Residents of Palisades Fire

On Wednesday, January 22, 2025, residents waiting in line to be escorted back to their homes by LAPD as part of the Palisades Fire repopulation efforts received an unexpected dose of joy. Victoria Nodiff-Netanel, founder of Mini Therapy Horses, visited the site with her eight-year-old miniature therapy horse, Blue Moon, to bring smiles to those impacted by the devastating fire.

Blue Moon, a highly trained miniature horse, entertained residents by playing the keyboard, offering a brief moment of lightheartedness in the midst of recovery. “It’s hard not to smile when you see a horse playing a keyboard, no matter what’s happened,” said Nodiff-Netanel.

Mini Therapy Horses, a non-profit organization founded in 2008, is a recognized leader in equine-assisted activities (EAA) and equine-assisted therapy (EAT) with miniature horses. Their dedicated teams regularly visit hospitals, veterans' facilities, family shelters, and other organizations to provide comfort and support to individuals in need. Some of their frequent stops include Shriners for Children Medical Center, Ronald McDonald Houses in Pasadena and Los Angeles, and UCLA Medical Centers in Santa Monica and Westwood.

In addition to regular visits, Mini Therapy Horses is part of the Los Angeles Mayor’s Crisis Response Team (CRT). The organization’s highly trained teams respond to traumatic incidents, offering resources and support to survivors. They have assisted in major crises, including the San Bernardino, Las Vegas, and Thousand Oaks mass shootings, as well as the Woolsey Fire.

Mini Therapy Horses’ work has gained widespread recognition, with appearances in the Rose Parade® and features in People Magazine, National Geographic, and The Kelly Clarkson Show. Their mission is to bring calm, comfort, and happiness to those experiencing trauma, a purpose they fulfill with professionalism and compassion.

The Palisades Fire, which ignited on January 7, 2025, burned over 23,000 acres, destroyed more than 12,000 structures, and displaced over 100,000 residents across Pacific Palisades, Topanga, and Malibu. Recovery efforts remain ongoing, with agencies and organizations like Mini Therapy Horses providing essential support to those affected.

As residents continue to navigate the challenges of rebuilding their lives, the presence of Blue Moon and the Mini Therapy Horses team offers a heartwarming reminder of resilience, kindness, and the healing power of a small act of care.

California Highway Patrol Officers (CHP) Escort Residents Back to Pacific Palisades After Fire Evacuations

On Monday, January 20, 2025, California Highway Patrol officers escorted convoys of residents along the Pacific Coast Highway to the Pacific Palisades Highlands as part of the repopulation process. Residents were first directed to Parking Lot 3 North at 1150 Pacific Coast Highway in Santa Monica, where Los Angeles Police officers verified their identification to confirm residency before allowing access to their homes in the Palisades.

Repopulation efforts follow the Los Angeles Fire Department’s (LAFD) announcement on Sunday, January 19, reducing evacuation orders to resident-only access for Zones LOS-0767-J and LOS-0767-G. Residents in Zone LOS-0767-J are required to participate in escorted convoys, conducted daily between 10:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m., to safely navigate back to their properties.

Evacuation zones LOS-0767-J include areas north of Santa Ynez Road, south of Temescal Fire Road, east of E Topanga Fire Road and Colina Drive, and west of Temescal Fire Road. Zone LOS-0767-G covers areas north of Observation Drive, south of Topanga Canyon Boulevard, east of Montau Drive, and west of Topanga Canyon Boulevard.

Residents must present proof of residency, such as a photo ID with their name and physical address, to gain access. Officials urge residents to have documents ready to ensure smooth verification and efficient repopulation.

Meanwhile, evacuation warnings for additional zones, including LOS-0767-C, LOS-0767-B, LOS-Q0762-A, and LOS-Q0762-C, have been lifted, allowing those residents to return without restrictions.

The Palisades Fire, which ignited on January 7, 2025, scorched over 23,000 acres, destroyed more than 12,000 structures, and displaced over 100,000 residents in Pacific Palisades, Topanga, and Malibu. Recovery efforts remain ongoing, with search and rescue teams, utility workers, and local agencies working to restore essential services and clear debris to pave the way for rebuilding.

As residents begin returning, officials remind the public to exercise caution and adhere to all safety guidelines as recovery and rebuilding efforts continue. For more information and updates on evacuation zones, visit the Los Angeles Fire Department’s website.