Game On at Rose Bowl, Firefighters Get in Free
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There were signs Thursday morning that there would be a football game this weekend at the Rose Bowl -- a grounds crew was painting lines on the field.
By Thursday afternoon, school officials made it official. They also announced that it will offer free tickets to the game and the Sept. 19 game for all Southern California firefighters and their immediate families.
Firefighters just need to show their IDs at the Rose Bowl ticket office on game day or the UCLA Ticket Office in advance.
Earlier this week, San Diego State athletic director Jeff Schemmel said the game might be moved to Dec. 5. But air quality improved and the fire receeded.
"Based on the current and projected information regarding conditions at the Rose Bowl provided to us by the AQMD (Air Quality Management District) and Pasadena city officials, including fire and health personnel, and after consultation with our medical staff, we are confirming that the game will be played as scheduled," said UCLA Athletic Director Dan Guerrero. "We will continue to monitor the situation in conjunction with city officials in Pasadena and the AQMD."
"Based on recent air quality measurements from a monitor stationed at the Rose Bowl this week and expected weather conditions Saturday, it should be game on for UCLA," said Barry Wallerstein, AQMD Executive Officer.
The Bruins' season opener against San Diego State was in jeopardy because of smoke from the Station Fire. A blanket of smoke and ash has hovered over the LA area since the fire in the Angeles National Forest started last week.
The Rose Bowl is about 10 miles south of the fire's ignition point -- mile marker No. 29 on the Angeles Crest Highway. The fire burned to within five miles of the stadium.
Air quality in Pasadena was considered "moderate" Thursday morning, according to the South Coast Air Quality Management District.
