TREE SERVICE: More than 40 local environmentalists...

TREE SERVICE: More than 40 local environmentalists gathered near McBean Parkway in Santa Clarita on Tuesday to mourn the loss of 105 oak trees that were chopped down there last week to make way for a new shopping center. Some people even read poetry. . . . Said organizer Lynne Plambeck: “We wanted to let people vent their emotions.”

DEBRIS DELAY: Despite concerns that piles of earthquake debris could cause health hazards, the Los Angeles City Council on Tuesday voted to delay a $3.5-million cleanup proposal. Some council members feared the proposal lacked an appeal process (B1). . . . Said Councilwoman Laura Chick: “I’m concerned about going after people who are truly not responsible.”

UNCLE JOE’S RACING: Joe Benson (above) knew shaking the label of “celebrity racer” would not be easy. But the popular disc jockey for KLSX (97.1 FM) radio in Los Angeles is picking up speed. . . . The La Crescenta resident, known as “Uncle Joe,” competes part time on three Southern California auto racing circuits (C6). Benson says, “Most of the people I’m racing with have respect for my ability.”

A LITTLE TROUBLE: Emma Harter decided to sell Chihuahuas because they made good guard dogs. Indeed, veterinarians call them “land sharks” for their fabled ferocity. But when Harter amassed 55 of the little creatures in her Acton home, neighbors thought she was barking up the wrong tree. . . . Now Harter is charged with running an illegal kennel (B1).

NO. 1 BACKUP: A North Hollywood generator company earned a technical Emmy award Tuesday for its backup performances. . . . The award honored Young Generators for creating a gadget that immediately transfers power from a crippled utility line to a backup generator. One recent rescue: The last three quarters of the 1995 National Football Conference Championship game were broadcast by a backup generator.