Governor Newsom Connects with NASA JPL Innovators and Local Entrepreneurs Resilient in the Face of Firestorm Challenges

LOS ANGELES – With a continued focus on recovery and reconstruction, Governor Gavin Newsom today conversed with workers and small business proprietors affected by the catastrophic Los Angeles firestorm to listen to their experiences and underscore the state’s initiatives to assist communities in rebuilding. 

The Governor toured NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) located in La Cañada Flintridge to engage with staff impacted by the Eaton Fire. Numerous JPL employees suffered property losses, with over 100 more at risk of displacement due to damage to their residences. Accompanied by Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors Chair Kathryn Barger, Governor Newsom discussed rebuilding efforts and the worries surrounding home insurance with the workers.

As the principal employer of those affected by the Eaton Fire, JPL established a disaster relief fund to support employees, which has already garnered over $2 million. JPL oversees the Deep Space Network, an expansive network of antennas that communicate with spacecraft. The NASA facility has collaborated with CAL FIRE to utilize soil moisture sensors to augment the state’s fire management and prevention strategies. JPL also assisted California in launching pollution-tracking satellites last year and works with the state on drought assessments.

Additionally, Governor Newsom visited small business owners Kevin Hockin and Rosanna Kvernmo. They initiated Side Pie as a pizza pop-up during the height of the pandemic. Following its viral success, they transitioned into a permanent establishment in Altadena in 2021. While at Disneyland with their daughter, they received the heartbreaking news that their restaurant had been lost and that their home suffered significant smoke damage. Kevin and Rosanna intend to reconstruct their business when it is safe.