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Welcome to another episode of the ActiveLab Podcast. This episode features our 2025 Noche de las Luminarias Honoree for Outstanding Elected Official, Congresswoman Judy Chu. Since 2009, she has represented California’s 28th Congressional District. She serves on the House Ways and Means and Budget Committees, helping shape national policy on healthcare, social programs, and fiscal responsibility. Her public service began on the Garvey School District Board of Education, followed by the Monterey Park City Council, where she served three terms as Mayor, and later in the State Assembly and State Board of Equalization. In 2009, she made history as the first Chinese American woman elected to Congress and continues to champion equity, education, and opportunity for all.  Tune in to learn about Rep. Judy Chu’s lifelong commitment to public service and the advice she has for future community members looking to make a difference in their communities. Join us for Noche de las Luminarias on Thursday, October 23, 2025, at Hurst Ranch in West Covina. This year marks ActiveSGV’s 15th anniversary, an evening of food, music, and inspiring stories you will not want to miss. Get your tickets now: http://bit.ly/noche2025 To learn more about ActiveSGV’s mission to support a more sustainable, equitable, and livable San Gabriel Valley, visit https://www.activesgv.org/ Do you have a particular topic you'd like us to discuss? Feel free to drop your suggestions in the comments below!  Tune in! Spotify: open.spotify.com/show/5apUX3yF677BLdvcJVeZKj Apple Podcasts: podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/activelab/id1510813864 YouTube: youtube.com/@activesgv  Follow @ActiveSGV on social media: Instagram: instagram.com/activesgv  TikTok: tiktok.com/@ActiveSGV Facebook:facebook.com/ActiveSGV  Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/activesgv.bsky.social  Threads: https://www.threads.com/@activesgv?hl=en  Twitter/X: twitter.com/activesgv  LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/activesgv

Welcome to another episode of the ActiveLab Podcast. In this episode, we feature our 2025 Noche de las Luminarias Honoree for Outstanding San Gabriel Valley Business, Octavia’s Bookshelf. Nikki High is the founder and owner of Octavia’s Bookshelf in Pasadena, California. As an early reader, Nikki always found safety in books, and her love for reading and storytelling only grew over the years. Guided by this passion and a desire to create the kind of literary space she longed for as a child, Nikki opened Octavia’s Bookshelf on February 18, 2023. Tune in to learn how Octavia’s Bookshelf has grown into a community hub through its workshops, author events, and support during the Eaton Fire, becoming a safe and healing space for the Dena community and beyond. Join us for Noche de las Luminarias on Thursday, October 23, 2025, at Hurst Ranch in West Covina. This year marks ActiveSGV’s 15th anniversary, an evening of food, music, and inspiring stories you will not want to miss. Get your tickets now: http://bit.ly/noche2025 To learn more about ActiveSGV’s mission to support a more sustainable, equitable, and livable San Gabriel Valley, visit https://www.activesgv.org/ Do you have a particular topic you'd like us to discuss? Feel free to drop your suggestions in the comments below!  Tune in! Spotify: open.spotify.com/show/5apUX3yF677BLdvcJVeZKj Apple Podcasts: podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/activelab/id1510813864 YouTube: youtube.com/@activesgv  Follow @ActiveSGV on social media: Instagram: instagram.com/activesgv  TikTok: tiktok.com/@ActiveSGV Facebook:facebook.com/ActiveSGV  Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/activesgv.bsky.social  Threads: https://www.threads.com/@activesgv?hl=en  Twitter/X: twitter.com/activesgv  LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/activesgv

Welcome to another episode of the ActiveLab Podcast! Today we are featuring our 2025 Noche de las Luminarias Honoree for Outstanding Community Organization, the National Day Laborer Organizing Network (NDLON). Since 2001, NDLON has defended the rights of immigrant and low-wage workers. In Pasadena, they operate the Pasadena Community Job Center (PCJC), which became a hub of relief during the Eaton Fire. Day laborers and immigrant families organized Volunteer Fire Relief Brigades that cleared thousands of tons of debris, distributed food and supplies, and reached more than 27,000 people in just the first weeks after the fire. NDLON also trained workers in disaster site safety to ensure health and protections during recovery. Join us for Noche de las Luminarias on Thursday, October 23, 2025, at Hurst Ranch in West Covina. This year marks ActiveSGV’s 15th anniversary, an evening of food, music, and inspiring stories you will not want to miss. Get your tickets now: http://bit.ly/noche2025 To learn more about ActiveSGV’s mission to support a more sustainable, equitable, and livable San Gabriel Valley, visit https://www.activesgv.org/ Do you have a particular topic you'd like us to discuss? Feel free to drop your suggestions in the comments below!  Tune in! Spotify: open.spotify.com/show/5apUX3yF677BLdvcJVeZKj Apple Podcasts: podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/activelab/id1510813864 YouTube: youtube.com/@activesgv  Follow @ActiveSGV on social media: Instagram: instagram.com/activesgv  TikTok: tiktok.com/@ActiveSGV Facebook:facebook.com/ActiveSGV  Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/activesgv.bsky.social  Threads: https://www.threads.com/@activesgv?hl=en  Twitter/X: twitter.com/activesgv  LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/activesgv

Welcome to another episode of the ActiveLab Podcast! Today we are featuring our 2025 Noche de las Luminarias Honoree for Outstanding Local Advocate, Max Romero. Though he only recently graduated from high school, Max has already made a major impact on public transit in the San Gabriel Valley. As a member of Sierra Madre’s Public Transportation Subcommittee, Max helped restore Metro Line 268, which now provides more than a quarter of a million rides each year. He represents LA County’s 5th District on Metro’s Community Advisory Council, contributes to committees on operations, safety, and customer experience, and developed a Station Revitalization Plan that improved safety and accessibility at stations like Memorial Park and Sierra Madre Villa. Beyond these roles, Max also advocates with the Pasadena Complete Streets Coalition and partners with agencies and elected officials across the region to strengthen public transportation for everyone. Join us for Noche de las Luminarias on Thursday, October 23, 2025, at Hurst Ranch in West Covina. This year marks ActiveSGV’s 15th anniversary—an evening of food, music, and inspiring stories you won’t want to miss. Get your tickets now: bit.ly/noche2025 To learn more about ActiveSGV’s mission to support a more sustainable, equitable, and livable San Gabriel Valley, visit https://www.activesgv.org/ Take the Pasadena Complete Streets Coalition survey on bus lanes here: https://www.pasadenacsc.org/bus-lane Do you have a particular topic you'd like us to discuss? Feel free to drop your suggestions in the comments below!  Tune in! Spotify: open.spotify.com/show/5apUX3yF677BLdvcJVeZKj Apple Podcasts: podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/activelab/id1510813864 YouTube: youtube.com/@activesgv  Follow @ActiveSGV on social media: Instagram: instagram.com/activesgv  TikTok: tiktok.com/@ActiveSGV Facebook:facebook.com/ActiveSGV  Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/activesgv.bsky.social  Threads: https://www.threads.com/@activesgv?hl=en  Twitter/X: twitter.com/activesgv  LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/activesgv

In this episode of the ActiveLab Podcast, host Alina sits down with Rene Salas to talk about the Merced Avenue Greenway Project, our 2025 Noche de las Luminarias Honoree for Outstanding SGV Project. The Merced Avenue Greenway is transforming South El Monte with safer streets, new bike paths, native gardens, and stormwater features that capture millions of gallons of water each year. The Greenway has already earned national recognition with the John Sanford Todd Award for municipal innovation and is a model for sustainable, equitable infrastructure in underserved communities. Phase II will extend the Greenway north of Rush Street toward Fern Avenue, with design work wrapping up in 2025 and construction expected to finish around 2027. Join us for Noche de las Luminarias, ActiveSGV’s annual fundraiser and awards ceremony, on Thursday, October 23, 2025, at Hurst Ranch in West Covina. This year marks our 15th anniversary, making the celebration even more special. Enjoy a delicious dinner, meet inspiring local leaders like Alana, and connect with community members working toward a more sustainable, safe, and vibrant San Gabriel Valley. All proceeds support ActiveSGV’s mission. Get your tickets now: bit.ly/noche2025  To learn more about ActiveSGV and our mission to support a more sustainable, equitable, and livable San Gabriel Valley, visit https://www.activesgv.org/ Do you have a particular topic you'd like us to discuss? Feel free to drop your suggestions in the comments below!  Tune in! Spotify: open.spotify.com/show/5apUX3yF677BLdvcJVeZKj Apple Podcasts: podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/activelab/id1510813864 YouTube: youtube.com/@activesgv  Follow @ActiveSGV on social media: Instagram: instagram.com/activesgv  TikTok: tiktok.com/@ActiveSGV Facebook:facebook.com/ActiveSGV  Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/activesgv.bsky.social  Threads: https://www.threads.com/@activesgv?hl=en  Twitter/X: twitter.com/activesgv  LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/activesgv

Welcome to another episode of the ActiveLab Podcast! Today we are featuring our 2025 Noche de las Luminarias Honoree for Outstanding Public Agency, Clean Power Alliance. Represented by Executive Director Ted Bardacke, Clean Power Alliance provides clean, renewable electricity to about one million customers in 38 communities across Los Angeles and Ventura Counties. As the largest community choice energy provider in California, CPA gives local communities a real voice in how their power is sourced and delivered while helping families and businesses save energy, cut costs, and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Under Ted’s leadership, CPA has accelerated the transition to a carbon-free energy system, secured competitive rates, and created programs that expand access to sustainable energy solutions. His decades of experience in sustainability, public service, and policy continue to shape California’s clean energy future. Join us for Noche de las Luminarias, ActiveSGV’s annual fundraiser and awards ceremony, on Thursday, October 23, 2025, at Hurst Ranch in West Covina. This year marks our 15th anniversary, making the celebration even more special. Enjoy a delicious dinner, meet inspiring leaders like Ted and the Clean Power Alliance team, and connect with community members working toward a more sustainable, safe, and vibrant San Gabriel Valley. All proceeds support ActiveSGV’s mission. Get your tickets now: bit.ly/noche2025 To learn more about ActiveSGV and our mission to support a more sustainable, equitable, and livable San Gabriel Valley, visit https://www.activesgv.org/ Do you have a particular topic you'd like us to discuss? Feel free to drop your suggestions in the comments below! Tune in!  Spotify: open.spotify.com/show/5apUX3yF677BLdvcJVeZKj  Apple Podcasts: podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/activelab/id1510813864  YouTube: / @activesgv Follow @ActiveSGV on social media:  Instagram: instagram.com/activesgv  TikTok: tiktok.com/@ActiveSGV  Facebook: facebook.com/ActiveSGV  Bluesky: bsky.app/profile/activesgv.bs...  Threads: threads.com/@activesgv?hl=en  Twitter/X: twitter.com/activesgv  LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/activesgv

Welcome to another episode of the ActiveLab Podcast! Today we are featuring our 2025 Noche de las Luminarias Honoree for Outstanding Volunteer – the Brian Velez Memorial Award, Stephanie Pinedo. A dedicated educator and long-time Pomona resident, Stephanie has shown an unwavering commitment to building community through active transportation and environmental stewardship. Since returning to California after college, she has become a familiar face at rides, events, and outreach activities, volunteering countless hours to support ActiveSGV programs that inspire more people to walk, bike, and take transit. Her energy, kindness, and reliability embody the spirit of this award, honoring individuals who give their time, talents, and heart to creating a healthier, more connected San Gabriel Valley. Join us for Noche de las Luminarias, ActiveSGV’s annual fundraiser and awards ceremony, on Thursday, October 23, 2025, at Hurst Ranch in West Covina. This year marks our 15th anniversary, making the celebration even more meaningful. Enjoy a delicious dinner, meet inspiring leaders like Stephanie, and connect with community members working toward a safer, more sustainable San Gabriel Valley. All proceeds support ActiveSGV’s mission. Get your tickets now: bit.ly/noche2025 To learn more about ActiveSGV and our mission to support a more sustainable, equitable, and livable San Gabriel Valley, visit https://www.activesgv.org/ Do you have a particular topic you'd like us to discuss? Feel free to drop your suggestions in the comments below!  Tune into ActiveLab on YouTube! YouTubeFollow @ActiveSGV social media! Instagram TikTokFacebookBlueskyThreadsTwitter/XLinkedIn

Welcome to another episode of the ActiveLab Podcast! Today we are featuring our 2025 Noche de las Luminarias Honoree for Outstanding City Staff, Alana Johnson. As Transportation Services Manager for the City of Arcadia, Alana has led efforts to expand mobility, safety, and access for residents. She oversees Arcadia Transit, directs a comprehensive service assessment, and works closely with partners to secure millions in funding for projects like the Colorado Boulevard Complete Streets initiative. With more than a decade of service to the City, Alana brings a community-first approach to advancing equitable and sustainable transportation options. Join us for Noche de las Luminarias, ActiveSGV’s annual fundraiser and awards ceremony, on Thursday, October 23, 2025, at Hurst Ranch in West Covina. This year marks our 15th anniversary, making the celebration even more special. Enjoy a delicious dinner, meet inspiring local leaders like Alana, and connect with community members working toward a more sustainable, safe, and vibrant San Gabriel Valley. All proceeds support ActiveSGV’s mission. Get your tickets now: bit.ly/noche2025  To learn more about ActiveSGV and our mission to support a more sustainable, equitable, and livable San Gabriel Valley, visit https://www.activesgv.org/ Do you have a particular topic you'd like us to discuss? Feel free to drop your suggestions in the comments below!  Tune into ActiveLab on YouTube! YouTubeFollow @ActiveSGV social media! Instagram TikTokFacebookTwitter/XBlueskyThreadsLinkedIn

Join host Wes as he chats with South Pasadena Walking School Bus participants about this innovative program. Discover how it provides a safe, fun, and sustainable way for Marengo Elementary students to get to school while fostering stronger community connections. This episode dives into the program’s weekly walks, creative pop-up activities, and the lasting impact on families and neighborhoods. To learn more about the Walking School Bus, follow South Pasadena Active @southpasactive and visit their website: www.southpasactive.org To learn more about ActiveSGV and our mission to support a more sustainable, equitable, and livable San Gabriel Valley, visit www.activesgv.org Do you have a particular topic you'd like us to discuss? Feel free to drop your suggestions in the comments below!  Tune into ActiveLab on YouTube! YouTubeFollow @ActiveSGV social media! Instagram TikTokFacebookTwitter/XLinkedIn

Welcome back to the ActiveLab Podcast! We're featuring our 2024 Noche Honoree for Outstanding City Staff, Steven Mateer. Steven is the Transportation Manager for the City of Glendora, overseeing public transit, bicycle and pedestrian programs, and the Transportation Demand Management Program. He is currently working to secure funding for over 10 miles of active transportation improvements and transition the city's transit service to zero-emission. Before joining Glendora, Steven worked at LA Metro, focusing on capital planning for transportation projects and leading the development of the First/Last Mile Strategic Plan. Join us as we celebrate Steven Mateer's dedication and contributions to sustainable transportation. To be part of the celebration, join us on September 12, 2024, for Noche De Las Luminarias. Experience the heartbeat of a community united for a promising future and meet our outstanding honorees. Purchase tickets here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/noche-de-las-luminarias-tickets-852586528257  To learn more about ActiveSGV and our mission to support a more sustainable, equitable, and livable San Gabriel Valley, visit https://www.activesgv.org/ Do you have a particular topic you'd like us to discuss? Feel free to drop your suggestions in the comments below!  Tune into ActiveLab on YouTube! YouTubeFollow @ActiveSGV social media! Instagram TikTokFacebookTwitter/XLinkedIn

Welcome back to the ActiveLab Podcast! Today, we're featuring a special double episode with our 2024 Noche Honorees: the City of Alhambra for Outstanding City and Jeffrey Koji Maloney for Outstanding Elected Official. The City of Alhambra is a beacon of progressive, sustainable urban development and community-centered planning in the San Gabriel Valley. Alhambra has promoted sustainable and active transportation, enhancing residents' quality of life through innovative initiatives like "Walk, Bike, Move Alhambra!" This comprehensive active transportation plan improves connectivity and reflects community input, aiming to create safer and more accessible streets. Alhambra's commitment to sustainability is also evident in its Environmental Sustainability Plan, which identifies projects to enhance the city's environmental health for future generations. The city's participation in Active Streets events in 2019, 2022, and 2024 highlights its dedication to creating sustainable, active transportation spaces and fostering community connections. Jeff Maloney from the City of Alhambra, who also won Outstanding Elected Official, is joining us today. Jeffrey Koji Maloney is Chief Counsel for the Santa Monica Mountains Conservancy and has been a dedicated Alhambra City Council member since 2016, serving twice as Mayor. Jeff has championed Alhambra’s first bicycle and pedestrian safety plan, comprehensive sustainability plan, and historic preservation ordinance. He has also promoted affordable housing, park expansions, and the creation of a state-of-the-art community center. Jeff is active in various organizations, including serving as President of the Asian Pacific Islanders Caucus of the League of California Cities and a board member for the Go For Broke National Education Center, Clean Power Alliance, and the Japanese American National Museum. Join us as we celebrate the City of Alhambra's achievements and Jeff Maloney's contributions to the community. To be part of the celebration, join us on September 12, 2024, for Noche De Las Luminarias. Experience the heartbeat of a community united for a promising future and meet our outstanding honorees. Purchase tickets here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/noche-de-las-luminarias-tickets-852586528257  To learn more about ActiveSGV and our mission to support a more sustainable, equitable, and livable San Gabriel Valley, visit https://www.activesgv.org/ Do you have a particular topic you'd like us to discuss? Feel free to drop your suggestions in the comments below!  Tune into ActiveLab on YouTube! YouTubeFollow @ActiveSGV social media! Instagram TikTokFacebookTwitter/XLinkedIn

Welcome to another episode of the ActiveLab Podcast! Today, we're featuring our 2024 Noche Honoree for Outstanding SGV Business Beastin Beauties Fitness Studio. Beastin Beauties, located in El Monte, is dedicated to empowering women through dynamic workouts in a supportive and inclusive environment. Founded by a fitness enthusiast who transformed her life through exercise, the studio aims to inspire women to live their healthiest lives. The studio's unique offerings include JamFit Dance Fitness, a high-energy class combining HIIT and dance, Circuit Training, and Yoga. These classes cater to all fitness levels and have become a favorite among members. Join us as Beastin Beauties' founder, Jay Armada, shares their inspiring journey with our host, Carly. To be part of the celebration, join us on September 12, 2024, for Noche De Las Luminarias. Experience the heartbeat of a community united for a promising future and meet our outstanding honorees. Purchase tickets here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/noche-de-las-luminarias-tickets-852586528257  To learn more about ActiveSGV and our mission to support a more sustainable, equitable, and livable San Gabriel Valley, visit https://www.activesgv.org/ Do you have a particular topic you'd like us to discuss? Feel free to drop your suggestions in the comments below!  Tune into ActiveLab on YouTube! YouTubeFollow @ActiveSGV social media! Instagram TikTokFacebookTwitter/XLinkedIn

Welcome to another episode of the ActiveLab Podcast! Today, we're featuring our 2024 Noche Honoree for Outstanding Local Advocate Je-Show Yang. As a program manager at APIFM, Yang champions policies improving air quality and public health in the San Gabriel Valley. He has led collaborations to develop crucial environmental policies and fought against car-centric projects to protect residents' health. Yang promotes sustainable practices and green initiatives on the Alhambra Environmental Sustainability Commission, contributing to a healthier city. His work includes developing Sustainability Plans for Alhambra and Monterey Park, targeting greenhouse gas emissions and urban congestion. Tune in to hear Je-Show Yang discuss his experiences with our host, Carly. To be part of the celebration, join us on September 12, 2024, for Noche De Las Luminarias. Experience the heartbeat of a community united for a promising future and meet our outstanding honorees. Purchase tickets here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/noche-de-las-luminarias-tickets-852586528257  To learn more about ActiveSGV and our mission to support a more sustainable, equitable, and livable San Gabriel Valley, visit https://www.activesgv.org/ Do you have a particular topic you'd like us to discuss? Feel free to drop your suggestions in the comments below!  Tune into ActiveLab on YouTube! YouTubeFollow @ActiveSGV social media! Instagram TikTokFacebookTwitter/XLinkedIn

Welcome to another episode of the ActiveLab Podcast! Today, we're featuring Grace Santiago, our 2024 Noche Honoree, for the Brian Velez Memorial Award—Outstanding Volunteer. Grace Santiago, a dedicated counselor from Boyle Heights, shares her journey and experiences as an invaluable volunteer with ActiveSGV. From participating in open street events, outreach initiatives, and ride marshaling, Grace has been instrumental in filling gaps and supporting the team whenever needed. Join us as Grace talks about her experiences with our host, Wes. To join the celebration, join us on September 12, 2024, for Noche De Las Luminarias. Experience the heartbeat of a community united for a promising future and meet our outstanding honorees. Purchase tickets here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/noche-de-las-luminarias-tickets-852586528257  To learn more about ActiveSGV and our mission to support a more sustainable, equitable, and livable San Gabriel Valley, visit https://www.activesgv.org/ Do you have a particular topic you'd like us to discuss? Feel free to drop your suggestions in the comments below!  Tune into ActiveLab on YouTube! YouTubeFollow @ActiveSGV social media! Instagram TikTokFacebookTwitter/XLinkedIn

Welcome back to the ActiveLab Podcast! Today, we're featuring our 2024 Noche Honoree for Outstanding Community Organization: Trust for Public Land (TPL). Since its establishment in 1972, TPL has championed the cause of ensuring that everyone, regardless of their background, has access to the outdoors. As a leading national nonprofit, TPL creates parks and protects land to foster healthier, more livable communities across the U.S. A shining example of TPL's transformative power is the Norwood Elementary Greening Project in El Monte, California. With a $9.8 million grant from Los Angeles County, this project is turning a neglected schoolyard into a thriving park, offering recreational and environmental benefits to underserved communities. Join us as we celebrate TPL's dedication and vision with our special guest, Edna Robidas, from Trust for Public Land. To be part of the celebration, join us on September 12, 2024, for Noche De Las Luminarias. Experience the heartbeat of a community united for a promising future and meet our outstanding honorees. Purchase tickets here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/noche-de-las-luminarias-tickets-852586528257  To learn more about ActiveSGV and our mission to support a more sustainable, equitable, and livable San Gabriel Valley, visit https://www.activesgv.org/ Do you have a particular topic you'd like us to discuss? Feel free to drop your suggestions in the comments below!  Tune into ActiveLab on YouTube! YouTubeFollow @ActiveSGV social media! Instagram TikTokFacebookTwitter/XLinkedIn