On this episode of Civic Encounter, Georgia Lewis and Simi Situ sit down with Los Angeles County Assessor Jeff Prang to discuss the work if the Assessor’s office as LA County reaches a year of recovery efforts following the LA fires in the Pacific Palisades, Altadena, and more. Los Angeles County Assessor Jeff Prang was elected in 2014 as the 27th Assessor for the County of Los Angeles and re-elected in 2018 and 2022. His office has played a pivotal role in making sure affected LA County residents get the information and resources they need to navigate rebuilding, taxes, and much more in the wake of the fires.

Assessor Prang is Civic Encounter’s first-ever returning guest, having previously joined the podcast in 2025. To learn more about his journey—from pioneering policy on the West Hollywood City Council to modernizing government technology as Los Angeles County Assessor—listen here.

On this episode of Civic Encounter, Georgia Lewis and Ava Sanchez speak with CA State Senator Caroline Menjivar about her journey from aspiring firefighter to EMT, Marine, and the second youngest state senator in California. Senator Menjivar shares how growing up in the San Fernando Valley and serving on the front lines shaped her leadership and commitment to public safety.

The conversation explores her legislative work on health and consumer protections, including SB 20 to prevent silicosis and SB 68 requiring food allergen disclosures, as well as broader issues like child care affordability, public transportation, and the impact of immigration raids on local communities.

Senator Menjivar closes with a powerful message for young people: don’t wait to lead—organize, advocate, and create change now.

For the FINAL episode of Civic Encounter Season 2, hosts Georgia Lewis and Simi Situ speak with Dr. Jocelyn Duarte, Executive Director of the Salvadoran American Leadership and Educational Fund (SALEF), about her journey from growing up in Pico-Union to leading one of LA’s most impactful immigrant advocacy organizations.

They discuss her roots in education, SALEF’s 30th anniversary, its support for families impacted by recent ICE raids, and the launch of the ALMA app. Dr. Duarte also shares her perspective on community building, mentorship, and what gives her hope for the future of Los Angeles.

Tune in to hear her powerful story and vision for strengthening immigrant communities.

Stay engaged with SALEF's work here on their Instagram!