Azusa, California Fire: Another Day in Los Angeles

This morning, I saw a headline about fire in Azsua - about 20 miles from my house. I first smelled the smoke in the middle of the night when I let the dog outside.

You learn the smell of badly burning brush fires and I could tell right away what was happening although I didn't know where.

Then, before I read the paper, I could see the red glow of the sun shining through the haze. An out of control fire was occurring.

Brush fires are a part of life in the Los Angeles area just like traffic on the freeways which is mentioned in a news article on doing business in LA. And there are numerous taxes and business regulations which make many employers consider whether they should stay in LA or even leave California.

Other aspects of life in Los Angeles include expensive housing and receiving the summons for jury duty. I meet some people who don't receive a jury summons but that's rare. In our household of seven people recently there were four of us who received a summons in the past year.

In Los Angeles County Superior Court, the system utilizes 11,000 people a day. The average case lasts up to five days. For those who aren't chosen to serve on a jury have to wait a day in a jury orientation room.

But other parts of living in Los Angeles are much more pleasant. In the Pasadena area, there are notable museums and the LA County Arboretum. There are also excellent ethnic restaurants in abundance which typically serve lunches and dinners for less than $ 10 per person, including drinks.

The beaches and mountains in close proximity provide a stunning topography with plenty of hiking and bike trails for those who like to get away.

While Los Angeles has a laid-back reputation it also emits an intensity that reaches every level of society.

How does one survive and even thrive in the LA area? Here are my tips:

Have a close-knit group of friends and support system

Find activities that are no cost or low cost such as hiking in the mountains one week and then swimming at the beach at another week

Enjoy window shopping

Once a year, have an upscale night on the town such as dinner in Beverly Hills

Volunteer for an organization that helps and mentors those in need

Perhaps these tips are similar for enjoying any city and dealing with its unique challenges and limitations.

Finally, seek out the opportunities that add value to the community and the people in that community.