Dear Altadena Heritage Members,

It’s impossible to put the scale and dimension of our losses – both physical and emotional — into words. But the one word that has always been at the heart of Altadena — and Altadena Heritage — is “community.”

We wanted to let you – our members – know that we as a board will do all we can to help rebuild the bonds of community. It may be in the form of zoom meetings and informative talks, or simply setting up a social gathering so people can come together.

When I think of the joy and friendship that filled the Woodbury house at our holiday party in December, I am warmed with hope that we can create that again albeit in smaller ways.

It will not be easy. So far, five out of the nine Altadena board members’ homes were destroyed. Four homes survived: mine, Kathleen McDonnell’s, Bill Stuart’s and Ken Haber’s. Our hearts are breaking for the thousands of families whose homes are gone.

The Eaton Fire is clearly Altadena’s greatest challenge. Our story will forever be divided between life “before the fire” and life “after the fire.” But note the key word is life. And the resilience that has been nurtured by years of strong bonds, friendships and common community will serve us well.

With sympathy, hope and strength,

Hans Allhoff
Val Zavala
Kathleen McDonnell
Gary Mendes
Darrell Webber
Claire Smith
Bill Stuart
Huan Gu
Ken Haber

Dear Altadena Heritage Members,

We hope this message finds you safe and well during this incredibly challenging time. As you know, the Eaton Fire has devastated our beloved community, annihilating nearly 60% of residential structures and leaving profound destruction in its wake. Our hearts go out to all those affected, and we stand together in support of rebuilding and recovery.

Given the circumstances, Altadena Heritage is temporarily suspending our membership drives. Instead, we are extending all active memberships for an additional year—free of charge—as a gesture of solidarity and support. While our membership site will remain open, we kindly ask that, for this year, contributions be made in the form of donations rather than membership renewals.
Your support has always been the backbone of our mission to protect, preserve, and honor the architectural, environmental, and cultural heritage of Altadena. Now, more than ever, we are committed to helping our community heal and restore what has been lost.

If you are able, please consider making a donation to aid our efforts during this critical time. Every contribution will go directly toward initiatives that help sustain and rebuild our shared heritage.
Thank you for being a part of Altadena Heritage. We will continue to provide updates as we navigate the road ahead together.

With gratitude and resilience,

Darrell Weber
Membership

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