Barger battles Chiquita Canyon Landfill
Los Angeles County Supervisor Chair Kathryn Barger (R-Palmdale, Lancaster, Santa Clarita, San Marino, Pasadena, La Cañada-Flintridge, portions of the San Gabriel Valley) announced yesterday that the County filed a Motion for Preliminary Injunction in its ongoing lawsuit against Chiquita Canyon Landfill.
The motion seeks immediate court action to compel stronger mitigation measures and protect the health and quality of life of residents in Castaic, Val Verde, and surrounding areas. Barger’s District 5 covers this area.
“Filing this injunction is another critical step in my unrelenting work to advocate for residents who have endured far too long the noxious odors and disruptions caused by Chiquita Canyon Landfill,” said Barger. “I will continue fighting to ensure accountability and relief. The County’s action today reflects that commitment.”
The Motion for Preliminary Injunction seeks court intervention to mandate urgent relief measures, including relocation assistance and home hardening for the most affected residents, to alleviate the health and quality of life impacts reported throughout the region.
This legal action marks the latest development in a broader lawsuit filed by the County against Chiquita Canyon Landfill, seeking long-term solutions and accountability.
Valladares gives cancer patients options
State Sen. Suzette Martinez Valladares (R-Santa Clarita) yesterday announced that her legislation, Senate Bill 508, expanding continuum of care options for some cancer patients by allowing them to consult with established out-of-state physicians, passed unanimously out of the Senate.
“This bill will allow cancer patients to continue to consult with their established out-of-state doctors remotely from back home in California,” said Valladares. “Now is the time to eliminate difficult geographic barriers and make specialized care more accessible for those who need it most.”
Under current law, telehealth visits between physicians and patients are confined within state borders, with exceptions for individuals with terminal diagnoses or those enrolled in clinical trials. Senate Bill 508 expands access for California cancer patients who no longer have a terminal illness to continue to consult with their out-of-state doctors.
“This important bill expands access to healthcare for older adults in particular, ensuring they receive the treatment they require, with fewer restrictions,” said Janice Bailey, Executive Director, California Senior Legislature. “We are so grateful to Senator Valladares for introducing this bill and for her support in expanding healthcare opportunities for thousands of vulnerable Californians.”
Senate Bill 508 now moves to the Assembly for consideration.
Culver City’s Ode to a Tree
Culver City announced this week that the upcoming final phase of an impressive public art installation is destined for the prominent intersection of Washington and National Boulevards.
Internationally acclaimed artist Charles Gaines’ installation, dubbed a ‘Love Letter to a Tree,’ centers on the unique relationship between a mature Ficus tree located at the site.
“Creating A Frame for a Tree has been a profound experience, centered around a dialogue with this Ficus, the urban landscape, and the viewer,” said Gaines. “My work explores how meaning is created, often at the intersection of systematic logic and natural forms, and this project allows that conversation to unfold on a grand scale in a public space. By framing this tree within a precise structure, I hope the viewer will consider the context of this natural space and leave with new insight. I am honored to contribute this artwork to Culver City.”
Culver City Mayor Dan O’Brien said this landmark public art installation by a world-renowned artist marks a remarkable milestone for Culver City.
“As a vital gateway to our city, the Washington and National intersection deserves a piece that is iconic and deeply rooted in the site’s character. A Frame for a Tree encapsulates our commitment to public art, celebrating the natural beauty of the beloved Ficus tree while honoring the area’s rich history,” said O’Brien.
