Political Landscape:

Assemblyman Anthony Portantino, whose district includes a portion of Montrose, will host a holiday open house from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Dec. 19 at the Walnut Plaza Lobby, 215 N. Marengo Ave., Pasadena.

The event is an opportunity to meet and greet the assemblyman and donate a toy to the Child Care Information Service.

Guests are encouraged to bring an unwrapped toy for donation. RSVP to (626) 577-9944.

Online help for those facing foreclosure

With homeowners across Southern California in danger of losing their homes due to foreclosure, the state has unveiled a new website designed to educate residents about mortgage options and financial assistance available, Assemblyman Anthony Adams, whose district includes La Crescenta, said Thursday.

Though the number of La Crescenta and Glendale homeowners who are at risk of foreclosure is reportedly small, few areas across the state have escaped the housing woes tied to the subprime mortgage meltdown.

In 2008, approximately 500,000 homeowners in California are expected to see their adjustable interest rates and mortgage payments jump over the next two years, Adams’ office said.

Homeowners having trouble making their mortgage payments, or anticipating trouble in the coming year, are encouraged to visit www. yourhome.ca.gov. The site provides information about different mortgage options, tips on how to avoid foreclosure and information on free consumer loan counseling.