News Archive

News Blog

Welcome to the Southern Sierran, published by the Angeles Chapter of the Sierra Club, serving Los Angeles and Orange Counties.

[Header photo: One of four Mountain Lion Kittens P-66 through P-69 © Courtesy of National Park Service]

February 2024

January 2024

  • ICO Xmas Fundraiser header

    ICO Gift Wrapping Fundraiser: A Huge Success!!

    A note from the Angeles ICO: And that’s a wrap!! Thanks to the incredible support during our REI gift wrapping fundraiser, we raised $2530. We can’t wait to use the generous donations we’ve received to plan more outdoor trips for our community’s underserved youths.

December 2023

  • Angeles Chapter and ReVamp Energy Industrial Solar Tour

    Rooftop Solar Tour Recap

    On Saturday, December 2nd, Sierra Club volunteers, community activists, and elected officials gathered to learn more about the ongoing need for rooftop solar investments. The tour was facilitated by Revamp Energy President, Jay Cutting, who was able to walk us through this special solar rooftop project in Monrovia. 

  • Trashimi by Jennifer Kim in Irvine

    Irvine's Ambitious Plastics Ban Met a Hurdle: A Closer Look at the Industry Pushback

    After seven years of community advocacy, the City of Irvine drafted a plastics ban, which would be the most comprehensive municipal ban in the country. Three weeks before City Council’s vote, a coalition of statewide industry groups launched a campaign to oppose it. City council nixed it. 

  • How to Make Year-End Donation

    Your gifts to the Angeles Chapter can help us wrap up 2023 with the financial support that we need to sustain the projects and programs that you care most about.
  • 2024-2025 ExComm elects

    Five Win Seats On The Chapter's Executive Board

    The top vote-getters in the ExComm election were Ellis Raskin, John Monsen, Aura Vasquez, Diane Trautman, and Anneliese Piñeda Klein. These five will join the 2024-2025 Executive Committee as at-large members to serve two year terms. Congratulations to the new at-large members-elect and, of course, thank you to all the candidates who ran and those who cast a ballot.

  • In solidarity with the community, Central Group activists attend a kite festival in LA Historic Park

    McCourt Gondola Moving Towards Approval Amidst Community Concerns

    The Los Angeles Aerial Rapid Transit (LA ART) project, also known as the Dodger Stadium Gondola or The McCourt Gondola, continues to be a viable project; however, multiple entities must approve the project in order for it to come to fruition. This is useful news as the project continues to face opposition from community members and organizations due to the lack of community input and transparency throughout the planning process and its harmful environmental impact on the area, particularly the Los Angeles State Historic Park.

  • A Weekend in the Desert: an ICO Recap of the 2023 Anza Borrego Camping Trip

    Veteran’s Day weekend was the “first” for many participants of Sierra Club’s Inspiring Connections Outdoors (ICO). For some, it was their first time braving a hike. For others, it was their first time touching a kitchen stove. For many, it was their first time enjoying the beauty of Anza Borrego State Park. Yet, collectively, it was a peaceful weekend surrounded by the warmth of community, an escape from the hold of social media and technology.

November 2023

  • Sierra Club Leader Sandra Cattell Providing Insightful Commentary During the Hearing

    One Hundred Plus Gather for Listening Session in Ongoing Campaign to Expand San Gabriel National Monument

    On Tuesday, November 7, 2023, USDA Under Secretary for Natural Resources Dr. Homer Wilkes held a listening session for a long time effort to expand the San Gabriel National Monument. Sierra Club National and local LA Chapter alongside partners from the Nature for All Coalition and supporters of the San Gabriel Mountains Forever Campaign, composed of dozens of conservation groups, helped mobilize more than 150 community members and provided over 100 in person comments in support as well as thousands of petition signatures calling on the Biden Administration to expand the National Monument through the antiquities act.

  • 27 Years of fighting for the planet with the Sierra Club, Interview with Bill Corcoran

    As Bill approaches the end of his time working for the Sierra Club, I sat down with him to talk about what he’s learned in that time, hear some stories, and look at what’s as true about the Sierra Club as ever. 
     
    Bill started as a front desk volunteer at the chapter offices. He then worked for the chapter and as the Southern California Regional Rep for that national field team on the Tejon Ranch settlement, the Sequoia National Monument, and the OC Toll Road campaign, before being hired by national and eventually running the Beyond Coal Campaign. 
     
    In this interview, Bill reflects on the power of a bright-line goal to organize around. He talks about how to be in relationship with each other and our members. We discuss the ways in which the Beyond Coal campaign has transformed the Sierra Club, and also the qualities of the organization that remain as strong as ever.

  • Exploring the Senses and Safety: Highlights from the ICO Retreat at Harwood Lodge

    Elizabeth Neat Shares Sensory Strategies and Safety Insights from the ICO Retreat at Harwood Lodge!

  • Join the Angeles Chapter Library Committee Meetings this November

    We invite you to our inaugural Angeles Chapter Library Committee meetings in November! Explore the rich history and future possibilities of our library. Save the dates, and let's shape the library's future together!

  • Woman cooks on induction stove during the holiday season

    Healthy Homes this Holiday Season

    Pollution Free Cooking to Celebrate Your Holiday Festivities
  • Pasadena 100 Coalition Members attend October 23rd hearing by George Vine

    Pasadena 100 vs. Pasadena Water & Power

    In a campaign update from Pasadena activist leader George Vine of the Sierra Club, the Pasadena 100 coalition finds itself in an unwavering battle against the city's electric utility to accomplish a 100% fossil fuel-free electricity goal by 2030, persistently pushing for environmental change despite obstacles and resistance.

October 2023

  • Sunday morning sunrise at the San Antonio Ski Hut

    San Antonio Ski Hut Work Weekend - photo essay

    Explore the heartfelt dedication behind the San Antonio Ski Hut in this photo essay by Morgan Goodwin. From hauling supplies to painting the exterior, witness the collective effort and love that go into maintaining this mountain gem.

  • Calling all Bibliophiles! We’re Forming a New Library Committee!

    Are you the kind of person who enjoys perusing bookshelves? Do you have an interest in Angeles Chapter archives and history? Does organizing and caring for one of the largest collections of books in the Sierra Club sound like your idea of fun? Do you want to help create library events and a community for members? We're forming a Chapter Library Committee 

September 2023

  • Join Our Sustaining Donor Campaign!

    Right now, all new monthly donations will be DOUBLED for an entire year! Last month, a few generous and passionate donors from the Angeles Chapter pooled their resources to create a match fund as their way to encourage new monthly donors. They know how important monthly donations are and they really hope that you will add your power to the work we do here in Los Angeles and Orange County. 

  • A Workshop You Won't Want to Miss!

    You are invited to join us at one of two Angeles Chapter Fundraising Workshops this October. The Fundraising Workshops are an exciting opportunity to learn directly from Ben Weiner, Sierra Club Chapter Fundraising Strategist. We are so honored that Ben is traveling to the Angeles Chapter to help us achieve growth in fundraising. This is Ben's area of expertise, and they'll be bringing a wealth of knowledge and energy to this Workshop. You won't want to miss this!
     
  • Swell Energy

    Bye, Bye Fossil Fuels! Check out Swell Energy.

    Join Swell Energy in our fight against climate change by converting your home to clean power today. 
     
  • 2023 Chapter and Group ExComm Elections

    2023 Chapter and Group Elections

  • Alex Chang, Office Volunteer

    Volunteer Spotlight - Alex Chang

    Alex Chang, a recent graduate and volunteer, shares his experience volunteering in at the Chapter office this summer.

  • Celebrating Excellence in Environmental Leadership: 16th Annual Sierra Club Political Leadership Awards Fundraiser

    The 2024 election cycle looms large on the horizon, with the California Primary just eight months away. In this pivotal time, the Sierra Club is gearing up to support environmental champions and combat polluter-backed candidates across the state of California. As part of this mission, we recently celebrated our 16th annual Sierra Club Political Leadership Awards fundraiser, an event that embodies our commitment to equity, democracy, and sustainability.

  • 2024 Angeles Chapter Banquet and Awards Presentation

    Plans are already underway for the 2024 Angeles Chapter Banquet and Awards Presentation! The event will be held in May of 2024 - exact date and location are TBD. Join our planning committee! We have several volunteer opportunities, including  sponsor solicitations, auction planning, awards logistics, decor, marketing, and many other ways to help make this occasion very special for our awardees and a successful fundraiser.
  • South Coast Commercial Oven Rule

    Local Agency votes to adopt the nation’s first zero-emission standards for a stationary source: Commercial Ovens Rule PASSED

    California's South Coast Air Quality Management takes a monumental step by passing Rule 1153.1, ushering in the nation’s first zero-emission standards for commercial ovens. Discover the impact and what's next in our fight for cleaner air.

  • Phil's cookie fondo 2022

    Pro-Cyclist Phil Gaimon Hosts Events in Support of the Angeles Chapter

    Join retired pro-cyclist Phil Gaimon in his passion for cycling, cookies, and the environment. Phil supports the Angeles Chapter's climate efforts and invites cyclists to get involved. Follow him on a bike tour, volunteer at cycling events, and join the movement for a greener world.

  • Become a monthly donor Sierra Club Angeles Chapter

    Sustaining our Future, One Month at a Time

    Your monthly gift, no matter the size, aids initiatives like conservation, scholarships, and clean-air advocacy. Donors receive exclusive perks, deepening their connection to the cause.

August 2023

  • barrington plaza

    Barrington Plaza Evictions - the climate and justice angle

    Mass evictions from Barrington Plaza are an environmental issue

  • Magnolia Tank Farm

  • The Cool Irvine Program

    The Cool Irvine Program, initiated after the United Nations' Cool Cities Challenge, aimed to enhance nature-based cooling solutions in cities to combat rapid urban warming. Irvine's successful pilot resulted in impressive carbon reduction, community engagement, and sustainable living practices, inspiring the creation of Cool OC, a nonprofit spreading this program across Orange County to raise awareness, provide resources, and foster a collective effort in addressing the climate crisis.

  • LCW '23 Fotos Y Recreo

    Fotos y Recreo Celebrates a Decade of Latino Conservation Week

    A decade of Latino Conservation Week signifies not just growth, but a deeper understanding of the vital connection between the Latinx community and the environment. When you imagine a Public Lands Conservationist or Nature Steward, what comes to mind? If you asked those who joined us at our “Fotos y Recreo” Latino Conservation Week celebration at Crystal Cove State Park, you are likely to have heard, “Someone like us, someone like me.”

  • Fundraising Corner: Highlights and Ways to Make a Lasting Impact

    August brings double full moons and the mesmerizing Perseids meteor shower. Our fundraising shines thanks to members like you, who surpassed goals and lit up our recent event at HiDef Brewery. Join us in sparking change through Legacy Gifts, vehicle donations, and monthly support, and let's keep our environmental victories alight! 

July 2023

  • Rep. Chu and Senator Padilla Urge President Biden to Expand the San Gabriel Mountains National Monument

    President Obama established the 346,000-acre San Gabriel Mountains National Monument almost a decade ago. It was the culmination of years of organizing by the Angeles Chapter, its Forest Committee, environmental allies like Nature for All, electeds, and community groups. Building on this legacy Senator Alex Padilla and Rep. Judy Chu recently announced a joint effort to encourage President Biden to use his executive authority to expand the San Gabriel Mountains National Monument by 109,000 acres. The welcome news came in late June during a rally and press conference at the Eaton Canyon Nature Center in Pasadena. 

  • Fotos y Recreo! Sierra Club Celebrates Latino Conservation Week

    Join the Angeles Chapter of the Sierra Club and other local organizations in celebrating its Second Annual Latino Conservation Week Event and LCW 10th year anniversary! We are excited to host another unique event that invites our communidad to connect in our passion for the environment, art, conservation and cultura. 

  • Image Courtesy of Bow Seat Ocean Awareness Programs

    Plastic Free July!

    Join us this Plastic Free July as we highlight local initiatives such as LAX's ban on single-use plastic water bottles and the City of Irvine's Climate Action measures. Discover how personal actions and support for key bills can contribute to statewide progress in tackling plastic pollution. Together, let's make a difference by reducing plastic waste and promoting sustainability for a better future.

  • Power out

    Can You Afford To Lose Power? We Don't Think So Either

    Ensure power security during outages and enjoy fixed bill savings by adding energy storage to your home. Sierra Club Angeles members receive exclusive benefits, including up to $500 off installation and donations to the chapter on their behalf.

June 2023

May 2023

  • The Chapter Welcomes a New Cohort of Activists

    The Angeles Chapter is excited to announce the inaugural graduating cohort of the Activist Academy Leadership program! 

  • The great room of the Harwood Lodge

    Visit Harwood Lodge

    Did you know that being a member of the Sierra Club comes with a range of exciting benefits? One such hidden gem is Harwood Lodge, nestled amidst the breathtaking natural beauty of the Angeles National Forest in California - It's your gateway to nature's paradise!

  • Awardee Will McWhinney with friends. Photo Credit: Theo Yang

    Feeling Connected at the Angeles Chapter Annual Banquet

    On Sunday May 21st, 250 Angeles Chapter members, volunteers, sponsors, and vendors gathered at Frankie LA to celebrate the power of the Sierra Club together. Ten of the chapter’s most inspiring and impactful members were honored for their dedication to the chapter.

  • Allison Chin Elected as Sierra Club Board President

    Oakland, CA - This weekend, Allison Chin was elected to serve as president (one-year term) of the Sierra Club’s Board of Directors. This is Chin’s fourth term as president. She was the first person of color to ever serve in this role.
  • Whiskey Tango Fondo April 29, 2023

    A Weekend of #SierraTogether in the Snow-capped Eastern Sierras

    On April 28th and 29th, pro-cyclist and Angeles Chapter supporter Phil Gaimon hosted Whiskey Tango Fondo, an epic cycling event in the Alabama Hills area of the Eastern Sierras. The event brought together 500 gravel bike riders from all over the US and Canada to test their skills on 50, 70, or 100 mile courses, climbing as much as 11,750 feet. Riders experienced the contrast of the year’s first heat wave while also enjoying views of the Owens Valley. 
  • Pasadena Group hikes to muir peak

    Earth Month Round-Up

    Earth Month was a breath of fresh air for the members and friends of Sierra Club Angeles Chapter, who laced up their hiking boots and hit the trails for a month full of adventure, exploration, and appreciation for the great outdoors. Here are some highlights.

  • Call for Nominations for Chapter/Regional Group Executive Committees

    Join Sierra Club Leadership! The Angeles Chapter Nominating Committee is recruiting Executive Committee leaders for the chapter and our regional groups. Executive Committee members guide the Sierra Club’s work in our communities. We make decisions about environmental policy, recommend the endorsement of political candidates, and direct our outreach activities. A good Executive Committee member has a deep love for the Sierra Club and the environment, and a willingness to serve the organization, and collaborate with fellow members to explore, enjoy and protect the wild places of Southern California. 

April 2023

  • Kamala Harris at Earth Day event

    Visiting Vice President Kamala Harris in DC

    On behalf of the Angeles Chapter, Senior Director Morgan Goodwin accepted an invitation to the Earth Day celebration at the residence of the Vice President! Click for photos and to read more about his visit.

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