We open with more politics, because whether people like it or not, policy and power are shaping every part of disaster recovery.

The Races Ahead

We dive into the Governor’s race, including a look at Matt Mahan’s visit to Altadena and why he missed the moment. We break down his platform, who we think is actually positioned to win, what candidates are getting wrong, and what they would need to do to get it right.

We also touch on the Los Angeles Mayor’s race, where Steve believes Karen Bass still has the advantage, and the growing question of who may emerge to lead the County as the next CEO.

Legislation Watch

We run through key bills and policy efforts now in play:

• HR 5366 – Federal Disaster Tax Relief Act of 2025, seeking to extend tax relief for survivors, thanks in large part to fire survivor advocates from Paradise's Camp Fire continuing to fight for all of us
• John Harabedian’s hearing on extending the Mortgage Forbearance Relief Act
• AB 1642, from John Harabedian and EFRU (Eaton Fire Residents United), focused on wildfire contamination standards for standing structures including homes, schools and commercial structures
• SB 1352, Prang’s property tax legislation, and what it could mean moving forward

Rebuild Reality

We revisit the County rebuild dashboard and the broader affordability crisis staring survivors in the face. Between Insurance battles, taxes, debt taken on to rebuild and rising costs everywhere, how are ordinary families supposed to afford to remain here after all of this?

We also share a little fire survivor humor from the community, including the surreal experience of browsing Zillow listings for burned lots with marketing copy like “Old Fence Poles!” You can't make this stuff up, folks. Sometimes you laugh because the alternative is screaming.

Small Biz Shout-Outs

This week we’re encouraging everyone to shop local for Spring, Easter, and Passover at Adelaide, Carciofi and Altadena Beverage / Zinnie’s Table

Plus, Some Weekend Events

• Sierra Madre Wisteria Festival — featuring Altadena favorites Kat’s Macarons and Cleo’s Critter Care
(March 28, 12pm–5pm)

• Electric Fever at Eagles Hall
 (Saturday, March 28 at 7pm)

• No Kings Rally at Altadena Community Church
 (10:30am–12pm)

This episode was recorded on March 26.