When residents gathered for the seventh and final Neighborhood Visioning Charrette earlier this month, it marked the close of a months-long community listening effort—and the beginning of a more focused phase of recovery planning for Pacific Palisades.
Over the past eight months, Palisades Recovery Coalition, working with volunteer planners, architects and research partners, convened seven visioning charrettes across the Palisades: Marquez, Alphabet Streets, Castellammare, the Bluffs, Huntington, the Highlands and a final, open “catch-all” session designed to include voices from across the community, including residents of Tahitian Terrace Mobile Home Park.
The goal was straightforward: to ensure that the direct voices of Palisadians help shape any plan or strategy for rebuilding neighborhoods and guiding long-term recovery. What emerged was not a single blueprint, but a remarkably consistent set of priorities—shared across geography, housing type and experience.
Different Neighborhoods, Shared Concerns
Each neighborhood brought its own realities to the table. In Marquez and the Alphabet Streets, residents focused on evacuation bottlenecks, rebuilding costs and concerns that one-size-fits-all policies could undermine both safety and neighborhood character. In Castellammare and the Bluffs, steep slopes, narrow roads and aging infrastructure underscored the need for coordinated, neighborhood-wide solutions rather than isolated fixes.
Highlands residents raised pointed questions about governance, preparedness and infrastructure—asking how heavily regulated areas could still feel under-protected during an emergency. Huntington participants emphasized livability and return: how to rebuild in ways that allow families to come back and sustain connected, walkable neighborhoods.
The final charrette brought these threads together and intentionally made space for perspectives often left out of traditional planning conversations. Residents of Tahitian Terrace spoke about the unique vulnerability of owning homes but not land, limited communication from property owners and insurance models that fail to reflect true replacement costs. Their message was clear: they are part of the Palisades’ fabric, and recovery must include realistic pathways for them to remain.
Consistent Themes Across All Seven Charrettes
Despite differences in topography and circumstance, several themes surfaced again and again:
A strong desire for more local coordination and accountability in recovery decisions
The need for clear, reliable communication during emergencies and as this recovery unfolds
Improved evacuation planning grounded in real street conditions and population needs
Fire-resilient rebuilding, not just home by home, but at the scale of streets and neighborhoods in a way that can impact insurance outcomes
Many linked resilience to insurance. Residents repeatedly noted that insurers are increasingly evaluating community-level risk, not just individual properties. The idea of “shared resilience”—coordinated hardening, vegetation management, infrastructure upgrades and preparedness—was widely seen as one of the few viable paths to stabilizing insurance availability and affordability for Palisadians.
From Listening to Action
The charrettes were never intended to produce a finished master plan. Instead, they created a shared record of lived experience—what residents saw, felt and learned during the fire and its aftermath, and what they believe must change.
PRC plans to formally report back to the community in January, summarizing findings from all seven charrettes and outlining next steps. The work will then continue through smaller, issue-focused Community Recovery Labs, where residents can engage more deeply on priorities such as evacuation, insurance, infrastructure, governance and rebuilding standards.
What the charrettes made clear is that recovery is about more than rebuilding structures. It is about rebuilding trust, preparedness and confidence—and doing so in a way that keeps the Palisades safe, insurable and recognizable to the generations who call it home.
As one participant noted during the final session, recovery works best when it reflects the people who live here. The charrettes were a first step in ensuring that happens.
Kamron Zar Palisadian Young Fire Survivor and PRC Intern Eliana Bernstein Palisadian Fire Survivor, UCLA student and PRC Administrative Assistant
‘White Glove and Remembrance Ceremony’ | The Village
Palisades Long-Term Recovery Group and American Legion Ronald Reagan – Palisades Post 283 have partnered together to present a “White Glove and Remembrance Ceremony” on Wednesday, January 7, from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. to mark one year since the Palisades fire.
“The event will honor the lives lost, salute the courage of first responders and volunteers, and recognize the resilience of families and organizations who have worked tirelessly to restore the heart of Pacific Palisades,” read a description. “The program will commemorate the 12 Palisadians who lost their lives, and pay tribute to the countless individuals and groups who are helping the community recover.”
The day is set to bring together community members, first responders, civic leaders and recovery partners in “remembrance, gratitude and unity.”
“This ceremony is more than remembrance, it’s a symbol of how a community can rise together from heartbreak,” Pali LTRG Board Chair Jim Cragg said. “Over the past year, we’ve seen neighbors step forward for one another with courage and compassion. On January 7, we honor those we lost and the collective strength that continues to guide our recovery.”
The ceremony will take place at Post 283, located at 15247 La Cruz Drive, followed by the remembrance program at Palisades Village Green. For a complete program, visit paliltrg.org/january-7-palisades-fire-observance-ceremony.
—SARAH SHMERLING
‘Community Services and Concerts of Remembrance, Healing and Renewal’ | Upper Bienveneda
Photo courtesy of Anne Akiko Meyers
St. Matthew’s Episcopal Church and School will host “Community Services and Concerts of Remembrance, Healing and Renewal” on Wednesday, January 7—marking one year after the Palisades and Eaton fires.
The concerts, which will take place at the church, located at 1031 Bienveneda Avenue, will start at 1 and 7 p.m. They will be preceded at 12 and 6 p.m. by community prayers.
“Both events consist of a prayer gathering led by the clergy of St. Matthew’s followed by an interlude with refreshments on the patio and a concluding concert,” read a description. “Everyone is welcome to attend the concert, the service or both.”
The 1 p.m. concert will include violinist Anne Akiko Meyers and members of Los Angeles Master Chorale, conducted by Grant Gershon. The program will feature music by Johann Sebastian Bach, Morten Lauridsen and Eric Whitacre.
The 7 p.m. concert will also feature Meyers alongside The Pacific Strings, conducted by Lucinda Carver, with music by Bach and Whitacre.
Tickets are not required to attend, but a $45 donation is suggested, which can be made online ahead of the concerts or at the door.
“Proceeds from the concert will benefit four Palisades-based performing arts organizations: Chamber Music Palisades, Palisades Symphony and Chorale, St. Matthew’s Music Guild, and Theatre Palisades, all of whom have been impacted by the fires,” the statement read.
For more information, visit musicguildonline.org or call 310-573-0722.
—SARAH SHMERLING
Laganà Receives Humanitarian Award | Pacific Palisades
Photo courtesy of Zsuzsi Steiner
Catholic Charities of Los Angeles recently honored lifelong Palisadian Sam Laganà with its annual Spirit of Giving Humanitarian Award in the Region of Our Lady of the Angels.
Laganà was nominated by chair of the board Todd Yoshitake, a fellow Loyola Marymount University graduate and the director of golf at Riviera Country Club. He was recognized for his leadership in supporting the recovery and resilience of thousands of individuals affected by the January firestorms in Pacific Palisades, Topanga and Malibu, as well as for his ongoing philanthropic work throughout Los Angeles.
The Humanitarian Award, previously presented to Vin Scully, Roma Downey and Fritz Coleman, celebrates individuals who exemplify compassion, service and dedication to uplifting the Los Angeles community. Chris Harrer (LMU ‘85) introduced Laganà to the gala crowd while Jim Drollinger of Westchester emceed Laganà’s presentation.
The awards evening in Marina del Rey also highlighted the work of Catholic Charities and its St. Robert’s Center, located on the border of Santa Monica and Venice near St. Clement Church, which provides emergency food, information and referral for area residents.
—STEVE GALLUZZO
Palisadian Honored | Pacific Palisades
Photo courtesy of Betsy Brown Braun
Palisadian Betsy Brown Braun, child development and behavior specialist, parent educator, and best-selling author, was named a “Who’s Who of Distinguished Leaders” 2025 honoree.
Braun is the founder of Parenting Pathways, Inc., a consulting service designed to provide parents with skills and confidence needed to handle “the sometimes-challenging situations that inevitably accompany raising children.”
“Having been in the field of working with children and families for over half a century and with Parenting Pathways, Inc. celebrating its 25th year, it’s gratifying to receive this recognition,” Braun said.
Marquis Who’s Who is the “standard for reliable and comprehensive biographical data,” which, since 1898, has included “unmatched coverage” of “leaders and achievers” from the United States and around the globe.”
Braun has also been a longtime contributor to the Palisadian-Post, including answering reader questions in the “Ask BBB” parenting column.
“It has truly been my joy to give back to my beloved community of Pacific Palisades for so many years through the Post,” Braun said.
The Palisadian-Post published a range of pieces by contributing writers and columnists, including “Green Tips,” “Jimmy Dunne Says” and a series of articles focused on real estate.
Photo courtesy of Jimmy Dunne
“Jimmy Dunne Says”
For years, Palisadian Jimmy Dunne has contributed a column, “Jimmy Dunne Says,” to the Post. Topics have included everything from parenting to childhood memories, working as a caddy, an attempt at playing football and more. In 2025, several of his columns focused on community after the Palisades fire, including his piece, “Routines,” which published April 24: “When we run into our buddies and old neighbors reminiscing our days before the fire, we talk about the places we miss,” he wrote. “Certain comfortable restaurants. Stores. Things like that. I think what we’re really saying is that we miss something else. Our routine. Our wonderful ‘habits’ in life. Before the fire, those routines that just kind of happened every day.”
Photo courtesy of Amanda Iyana Michaels
“Green Tips”
Throughout the year, Resilient Palisades provided “Green Tips” to the Post. In the Green Tip published November 27, Board Member and Communications Director Sara G. Marti wrote: “This Thanksgiving, our community is gathering around tables forever changed. And yet, look at what we have done together. Neighbors showed up. Volunteers became leaders. Grief became fuel. We learned how to take care of each other and how to take care of the land that holds us. Today’s Green Tip is simple, but profound: Honor this year by choosing one regenerative act.”
Photo courtesy of Micheal Edlen
Michael Edlen
Real Estate Consultant Michael Edlen wrote a series of articles for the Post regarding real estate in the community. In February, he wrote a piece titled “Rising from the Ashes: How Wildfire is Reshaping the Future of a Beloved Community,” with his most recent piece on December 11 containing thoughts on the “current Palisades situation:” “As our community continues navigating the aftermath of the January 2025 wildfire, many people are still making difficult decisions about their homes, plans and futures,” Edlen wrote. “The pace of recovery varies widely from street to street and family to family.” He offered insight on “several lesser-known issues, opportunities and practical tips” to help people “move forward with more confidence.”
Photo courtesy of Dr. Damon Raskin
Dr. Damon Raskin
Just 10 days after losing his Highlands home in the Palisades fire, Dr. Damon Raskin was helping patients out of an office in Santa Monica. The doctor returned to his Palisades office, seeing patients full-time from his Sunset Boulevard space beginning in May. Raskin maintained a health column in the Post for many years, beginning the year by answering a question about managing the mental and physical effects of change and stress.
Photo courtesy of Diana Daniele
Diana Daniele
Palisadian Diana Daniele offered her perspective on the Los Angeles fires in her piece published March 13, “In Community, We Rise”: “I am a Palisadian through and through—to the point of carrying the American flag in the Palisades’ Fourth of July parade last year. I was granted this honor because of my civic involvement on the board of the Pacific Palisades Community Council. I don’t just live in Pacific Palisades; it is home, in the deepest sense of the word.”
Photo courtesy of Lisa Kaas Boyle
Lisa Kaas Boyle
Lisa Kaas Boyle wrote a piece about Regal Cleaners, which took over French Hand Laundry in Pasadena after the fire: “I’ve had three great gifts that survived the total loss of my home. My cats were rescued weeks after the fire by Viva Cat Rescue. My safe deposit box miraculously survived at Chase Bank preserving jewelry my ancestors brought to America. And finally, Regal Cleaners brought me a very unexpected gift. I had no idea what clothing we had at Regal when the fire burned our village, and a very special item was preserved, thanks to the care of Regal … The biggest gift they saved for me: the kilt my husband bought for me in Ireland in his family tartan 35 years ago before I became a Boyle.”
Photo courtesy of David Grinsfelder
David Grinsfelder
Palisades Charter High School grad David Grinsfelder, whose family has resided in the Highlands since 1989, penned a series of travel tales for the Post, writing about a trip to Vietnam: “As fate would have it, I stumbled upon the optimal elixir: Vietnamese coffee. As the world’s second-largest coffee exporter (trailing only Brazil), the crown jewel of its coffee fleet is the Robusta bean—more earthy than arabica beans and almost twice as caffeinated.”
Palisadian-Post interns had the opportunity to help out with several aspects of newspaper production, from pitching stories to taking assignments, proofreading and assisting with projects, including community events. Here are some of the stories that our interns wrote or covered this year.
Photo courtesy of Arden Seretean
Arden Seretean
Combining stories, a first-hand report and poetry, Arden Seretean put together a series for the Post, which began on September 25 with interviews with Emily Kay Tillman of Fancy Feet Dance Studio, the Peterson family and Lita Mustika of Palisades Garden Cafe. The second part included an account of the Palisades fire and debris removal at her home, as well as a poem: “My Thoughts Undress the Silence.”
Audrey Smith
Beginning a tenure with the Post as a junior reporter, Audrey Smith was an intern in 2025, completing several feature stories for the paper. One story included an interview with Highlands resident Kim Marshall, who launched the “#L.A. Rising: Stories of Healing, Help and Hope” podcast two weeks after the fire started: “As a communications expert for my entire career and a podcast host and producer for the past five years, telling stories is my skill and wellness is my specialty,” Marshall told Smith. “This podcast about healing, help and hope is something meaningful that I can offer to help find the light in a very dark situation.”
Jude De Pastino
As a photography intern, Jude De Pastino covered a range of things for the Post, including the reopening of parts of Self-Realization Fellowship Lake Shrine, Lowe Family YMCA Pumpkin Patch, The Longest Table event in October and the annual Pacific Palisades Holiday HoHoHo! in December.
Michael Matlof
During his internship, Michael Matlof covered Palisades Americanism Parade Association’s Fourth of July event at Paul Revere Charter Middle School, as well as an interview with Kehillat Israel Associate Rabbi Daniel Sher.
Nissara Shah
In addition to helping with proofreading and edits, Nissara Shah wrote for Reel Pali, covering the release of “Happy Gilmore 2” on Friday, July 25, starring Palisadian Adam Sandler as the titular character and season five of “Only Murders in the Building,” starring former Honorary Mayor Martin Short.
Camille Cornell
Camille Cornell spoke with lifelong Palisadian Phil Pecsok, who shared details on his experience fighting the fire on January 7: “On January 7, Pecsok worked across his property and his neighbors’—pulling multiple hoses onto roofs, clearing burning brush and putting out embers to protect homes that were in imminent danger,” Cornell wrote.
Daila Harinck
Daila Harinck wrote a piece about Pali High grad Todd Lawrence, who traveled the world, visiting 22 countries before eventually settling in Taiwan, where he has lived for over three decades. Lawrence launched Custom Home Vaults, utilizing “modular paneling to convert standard shipping containers into fully secure, concealed bank vaults for residential use.”
Robert Eugene “Bob” Becker passed away peacefully on November 30 at the age of 84. Born on August 2, 1941, in York, Pennsylvania, he was the son of Grace Eyster Becker and Ralph Jonas Becker.
Bob is survived by his four children and nine grandchildren, each of whom he adored and supported with his whole heart: Nicole Becker Ewing and her husband Sanford, and their daughters Ava, Camille, and Katherine; Kristen Becker Reed and her daughters Georgia and Charlotte; Ryan Robert Becker and his wife Sarah, and their sons Jonas and Charlie; and David William Becker and his wife Lela, and their daughters Goldie and Poppy. He is reunited in heaven with his beloved wife of nearly five decades, Sheila Kay Kling, with whom he created a home overflowing with humor, loyalty and warmth.
Bob earned his Bachelor of Science degree in aerospace engineering from Penn State University. Following his graduation, he and Sheila moved to California when Bob was commissioned in the United States Air Force and stationed at Camp Pendleton. During this time, he contributed to early unmanned space-flight work for NASA, an experience that reflected his lifelong interest in science and engineering.
After completing his military service, Bob began a successful career in the insurance industry. He worked at Pacific Mutual before co-founding RML Financial and later established his own firm, allowing him to balance professional accomplishment with his deep commitment to his family.
Bob made his home in Pacific Palisades for 54 years, forming lasting friendships and taking an active role in his community. He was a dedicated volunteer with the Boy Scouts of America, proudly supporting his two sons as they earned the rank of Eagle Scout. He also contributed his time to his church and neighborhood, remaining engaged and supportive throughout his life in the Palisades. Even after the wildfire that claimed his home, Bob’s optimism and resilience never wavered.
In retirement, Bob found great joy in playing bocce at Palisades Park. The camaraderie, friendly competition, and sense of community brought him happiness, punctuated by earning a league championship.
Above all, Bob will be remembered for his warmth, humor and devotion to his family. He treasured time spent on the beach, traveling with his children and grandchildren, or gathered around a dinner table swapping stories. His steady presence, kind nature and generous spirit will be deeply missed by all who knew him.
After more than 25 years covering Pacific Palisades sports, the clock has run out. I’d like to take this opportunity to thank all of the editors, writers and designers I’ve worked with over the years. I’d also like to thank you, the readers, for your interaction and encouragement. I’ve made so many friends, gotten to know so many families and told many of your stories. For that, I’m beyond grateful. Most of all, I’d like to thank all of the amazing athletes and coaches who made my job so much fun every day. The games will go on… and I’ll be following with interest.
As we look ahead to yet another exciting year of sports in Pacific Palisades, it is time to look back on the memorable plays, record-breaking achievements and storybook endings that gave us thrills, chills, cheers and tears over the past 12 months. Here is a countdown of the Palisadian-Post’s Top 10 sports stories in 2025…
#10. Runners sprint from the starting line to begin the Palisades-Will Rogers Race, which was held at Venice Beach on the Fourth of July.
10Henry Didden Three-Peats at Will Rogers Run in Venice
The Palisades Will Rogers Race did not take place at its usual location but that did not deter more than 1,000 runners from waking up early on the Fourth of July, hopping in their cars and driving seven miles to Venice Beach to keep a proud 48-year holiday tradition alive. Proud Palisadians Sam Lagana and Jimmy Dunne reprised their roles as race announcers, City Councilwoman Traci Park offered words of encouragement and two-time defending 10K champion Henry Didden won the 5K.
#9. Lacrosse players Riley Donner and Will Fishman dump a backut of ice water on coach Dave Bucchino in celebration of the Dolphins’ 10th City championship.
9Pali High Lacrosse Teams Capture City Titles on Same Day For the third consecutive season, Palisades High’s boys and girls lacrosse teams swept the City finals in Woodland Hills, both defeating El Camino Real by nine-goal margins only hours apart to continue the Dolphins’ dynasty in the sport. Will Fishman had four goals for the boys, who won their 10th section title, ninth in a row and fifth straight under coach Dave Bucchino. Elexus Ray scored nine goals for the girls, who claimed their fourth title overall and third straight under Dexter O’Connell.
#8.Tennis player Lorenzo Brunkow and golfer Anna Song won the Post Cup Award in June as the outstanding senior athletes at Palisades High.
8Lorenzo Brunkow and Anna Song Win Post Cup Award
At a Senior Awards Night in June, Palisades High tennis player Lorenzo Brunkow and golfer Anna Song were handed trophies as winners of the Post Cup Award, given annually to the school’s top male and female senior athletes. Brunkow won the City Individual singles title and led the Dolphins to their 16th straight team title. Song captured her third straight City individual title, setting the finals scoring record in the process, and led the Dolphins to their fourth consecutive team crown.
#7. Palisades basketball player Matin Farhangnia shakes hands with Golden State coach Steve Kerr after a Lakers-Warrors game at Crypto.com Arena.
7Pali High Basketball Team Meets Steve Kerr and JJ Redick
Palisades High basketball coach Jeff Bryant and his team were invited to the Lakers-Warriors game February 6 at Crypto.com Arena and after the home team won 120-112 the Dolphins got to meet Golden State coach and 1983 Palisades alum Steve Kerr, his 90-year-old mother Ann, and Lakers coach JJ Redick in the locker room. Each player took home a gift bag with Warriors gear, t-shirts, sweatshirts and Kobe sneakers. Kerr’s childhood home and Redick’s rentalhome were both destroyed in the Palisades Fire.
#6. Palisades baseball players Lars Refnes, Ethan Davis, Carter Branch and Tribe Edwards shout “It’s Time for Dodger Baseball” at Dodger Stadium.
6Pali High Baseball Teams Invited to Dodger Stadium
April 26 will be remembered as “Dolphins Day” at Dodger Stadium—an experience Palisades High baseball players will never forget. First, JV and varsity members were invited down to field level to watch batting practice, then Jett Teegardin took the mound to throw the ceremonial first pitch to Dodgers skipper Dave Roberts. Finally, Ethan Davis, Carter Branch, Lars Refners and Tribe Edwards were handed microphones behind home plate to deliver the familiar line “It’s Time for Dodger Baseball.”
#5. Honorary mayor Ted McGinley and Palisades Bocce Club founder Jimmy Dunne at the Veterans Gardens re-opening on September 7.
5Veterans Gardens Re-Opens with Bocce Tournament
Exactly eight months to the day the Palisades Fire started members of the Palisades Bocce Club returned to their home courts at Veterans Gardens to play some ball, converse with their friends and celebrate a victory for their town. The 16-team round robin tournament Sept. 7 was hosted by Club founder Jimmy Dunne, who gave a shout-out to Bill McGregor for the hours he spent rebuilding the facility. Councilwoman Traci Park was the inaugural recipient of the “Phoenix of the Palisades” award.
#4. Linemen Malyk Lewis and Samuel Pizante celebrate a sack in the Dolphins’ 40-33 victory over Fairfax on Senior Night at SoFi Stadium.
4Pali High Football Plays Senior Night Game at SoFi Stadium Every high school footballer dreams of one day playing in an NFL stadium. That dream became a reality for members of the Palisades High varsity team Oct. 30, when they took on Fairfax on Senior Night at SoFi Stadium, the home venue of the LA Rams and Chargers. The Dolphins prevailed 40-33 to wrap up an undefeated regular season and clinch the Western League title. Dylen Smith was honored as “High School Coach of the Week.”
#3. The Palisades Recreation Center’s Coed Minor basketball team celebrates after beating Pan Pacific to win the Citywide Tournament championship.
3Pali Rec Minor Hoops Squad Wins Citywide Championship The Palisades Recreation Center’s Coed Minor Division All-Star basketball team gave new meaning to “March Madness” by winning the Citywide Tournament with a 36-33 triumph over Pan Pacific. Knox Redick, son of LA Lakers coach JJ Redick, led all scorers with 12 points. Coached by Vijay Srinivasan and John Skinner, the squad of 9- to 11-year-olds went 8-0 in All-Star play with an average victory margin of 30 points per game.
#2. Loyola tennis player Braun Levi was killed in May by a suspected drunk driver only weeks before his high school graduation.
2Live Like Braun Foundation Started after Tennis Player’s Death The community was stunned when Palisadian Braun Levi, a senior on the Loyola High tennis team who was set to attend the University of Virginia, was killed May 4 by a suspected drunk driver. He was a captain and four-year varsity starter, having just won his fourth straight Mission League doubles championship. His family and the school established the LiveLikeBraun scholarship in his honor and a tennis tournament was held August 9 in Palos Verdes on what would have been his 19th birthday.
#1. Jordyn Netter and Annabelle Parsky were among the 1,200 registered runners in the 11th Pacific Palisades Turkey Trot on Thanksgiving morning.
1Revamped Turkey Trot Course Attracts Huge Crowd to Village Thousands of people packed the Village on Thanksgiving morning to participate in or watch the 11th edition of the Pacific Palisades Turkey Trot. Co-honorary mayors Gigi Rice and Ted McGinley and boxing Hall of Famer Sugar Ray Leonard were in the field of 1,200 and many more ran the race for fun through the Via Bluffs neighborhood—a testament to the spirit of a community that is rebounding from the devastating Palisades Fire in January. Henry Winn won the 5K in the closest finish ever.
Ashlynn Sells was named City Player of the Year after leading Palisades to the Open Division volleyball championship. Photo: Steve Galluzzo
Another exciting year of sports is coming to an end in Pacific Palisades and it is time to look back at some of the local athletes who inspired us with their perseverance, passion and skill in 2025…
No one drew more oohs and aahs than Palisades High football player Demare Dezeurn, who dazzled fans week after week with his speed, athleticism and showmanship. The junior transfer from Alemany was a human highlight reel on offense, defense and special teams and was named Western League Player of the Year after leading the team with 27 touchdowns—21 receiving, one rushing, three on interception returns and two on kickoff returns. At the postseason team banquet, Dezeurn was given the Joe Spector Award as Varsity MVP. He caught 64 passes for 1,372 yards at wide receiver and added five interceptions and three pass deflections at free safety.
Quarterback Jack Thomas passed for 3,284 yards, 43 touchdowns and only three interceptions and was named Western League Offensive MVP while Liam Hudson was selected Western League Offensive Lineman of the Year and won the team Pancake Award. Linebacker Enzo Allen led the team with 121 tackles and Tavian Talbert was named the team’s top defensive player.
Demare Dezeurn caught 64 passes for 1,372 yards and 21 touchdowns to earn Western League Player of the Year honors. Photo: Steve Galluzzo
Also showing excellence on the gridiron and in the classroom were Loyola High captains Max Meier and Nathan Turk. A three-year starter at defensive end, Meier finished his senior season with 113 tackles (19 of those for losses), 11.5 sacks and 30 quarterback hurries. The two-time All-Mission League selection received 24 Division 1 offers before signing with Stanford. Turk, an offensive lineman credited with 68pancake blocks in 2025, not only excels at football but is also a wrestler and plans to shot put for thr track and field team in the spring. He has a 4.55 GPA, is Vice President of the student body and has been on student council all four years. He has committed to Harvard. The two have played together since their days at Corpus Christi School, where they won the CYO flag football championship.
The Palisades High girls volleyball team captured its 31st City Section title in the fall, paced by junior outside hitter Ashlynn Sells, who had six kills in a three-set sweep of Venice in the finals. She was named Open Division Player of the Year. Joining Sells on the first team were senior libero Lucy Neilson, senior outside hitter Tulah Block and junior setter Christie Turner. Over at Marymount, liberos Karys Campos, Declan Eastman and Gabrielle Bartle helped the Sailors reach the Southern Section Division 1 and SoCal regional semifinals.
Max Meier (left) and Nathan Turk captained the Loyola football team to the CIF Southern Section Division 5 semifinals. Courtesy of Tim Meier
On the sand, Miles Partain continued his success on the AVP Tour, winning the Huntington Beach Open with partner Andy Benesh in May and on the college courts, Dillon Klein was named a first team All-American after pounding 338 kills for USC. Fellow Loyola alum Cooper Robinson totaled 365 kills in 28 starts for UCLA, which reached the NCAA Finals in May. Elia Rubin led the Stanford women’s team with 393 kills.
The Most Resilient Award has to go to Black Belt Tamar Springer, whose comdominium burned down in the Palisades Fire. Nevertheless, she collected gold medals in Traditional Forms and Traditional Weapons in the 50-and-over division of the annual Compete Karate Tournament at the Ontario Convention Center in February.
In tennis, seniors Nicole Nguyen and Anne Kelly claimed the City Individual doubles title two weeks after helping Palisades High capture its 30th girls team title. The boys won their 16th consecutive team title in the spring and post Cup winner Lorenzo Brunkow beat his friend and teammate Neel Joshi to win the City Individual singles title. Caleb Scott paired with Max May to win the Individual doubles title, beating teammates Zach Cohen and Teddy Brainard in the finals. Loyola’s Cooper Schwartz and Braun Levi won the Mission League doubles title and advanced to the semifinals at Ojai.
Tamar Springer won gold medals in Traditional Forms and Weapons at the Compete Karate Tournament in February. Courtesy of Gerry Blanck
In February, three talented Palisades High seniors did their school and community proud by taking first place at the NBTA California State Baton Twirling Championships in Perris. Martha Valkov teamed up with identical twins Grace and Noelle Hardy to form a formidable threesome that not scored the most points in the competition but also walked out with a five-foot tall trophy for being the Most Inspirational team. The cherry on top came the next day when Noelle was crowned champion of the Miss Majorette of California Pageant and Grace won the state Strut title. In March, the trio was at it again, taking first place in the All West Regional Championships at San Diego State University.
Racquetball player Brett Elkins proved the value of experience when he and partner Ed Erickson from Arkansas won the World Seniorschampionship in thr 55-60 age division, going undefeated and knocking out the No. 1-seeded duo. Coached by his son Cody, Brett took second plade in singles, upsetting the No. 1 seed en route to the finals.
On the basketball court, Palisades High guard and leading scorerElly Tierney made the All-City Open Division squad along with forward Riley Oku and on the boys side point guard Jack Levey made the Open Division team along with shooting guard Tommy Pickens.
Martha Valkov and twins Grace and Noelle Hardy took first in the All West Regional Baton Twirling Championsips. Courtesy of Jacqueline Hardy
The Palisades Recreation Center’s Coed Minor Division All-Star basketball team did not lose a game on its way to the Citywide Tournament championship, beating Pan Pacific 36-33 in a thrilling final April on 10. The team consisted of 9-year-old Kai Bowman, 10-year-olds Knox Redick, Beckett Thomas, Kinglsey Citron, Dax Skinner and Matthew Bundy and 11-year-olds Arjun Srinivasan, Hunter Ma and Josh Ahdoot. The squad racked up 358 points and allowed only 149 in eight games.
In girls soccer, Palisades High’s two leading point producers made the City’s inaugural Open Division team: Mechal Green (22 goals, 17 assists) and Leila Jafari (17 goals, 10 assists). Senior midfielder Jack Spirito was the boys’ lone All-City representative.
Racquetball ace Brett Elkins (right) with his son Cody and doubles partner Ed Erickson at the IRF World Seniors. Courtesy of Debbie Elkins
It was another successful season for auto racing phenom Jaxon Bell, as the 2021 Pali High graduate and oldest son of 10-time Indy 500 driver Townsend Bell teamed up with Ford Koch to make their first International Motor Sports Association podium at Road Atlanta in October in the Fox Factory 120 race—the final event of the 2025 IMSA Michelin Pilot Championship. Competing with the Toyota Supra GT4, the duo qualified fifth and finished second while logging the second and third fastest laps among the 54 drivers in the class.
The sport of golf is challenging, but identical twins Chase and Jack Zucker make it look easy at times. The Paul Revere students get stellar grades on the links and in the classroom. Both also play guard for their AAU basketball team Bucket Boys that recently received the distinction of being an Adidas sponsored program.
A new star is on the rise for the Palisades High girls lacrosse team. Her name is Elexus Ray and she broke the school single-season scoring record with 113 goals,including nine in the City finals against El Camino Real.
Palisades High’s boys water polo team was not selected for the Open Division bracket in the fall but still won a City title—its 18thoverall—thanks to the cat-quick reflexes of goalie Aidan Moriarty, who made 12 saves, and five goals by Hudson Mirzadeh in an 8-7 victory over Granada Hills in the Division I final.
Brothers Jack (left) and Chase Zucker at the Callaway FCG Championships in Auburn, Washington. Courtesy of Eric Zucker
Tyler Heineman, who grew up in the Palisades, was the backup catcher for the Toronto Blue Jays, who won the American League pennant and lost to the Dodgers in an epic seven-game World Series.Heineman appeared in 61 regular-season games in 2025, batting .289 with 43 hits, three homers, 20 RBIs and 25 runs scored in reserve of Alejandro Kirk.
After leading the Palisades High baseball team to the quarterfinals of the Division I playoffs, senior outfielder Logan Bailey was picked for All-City honors.He tied for third on the team with22 hits in 25 games, was third in runs scored with 24, led the team in doubles (six) and triples (two), had a .355 batting average and swiped a team-high 17 bases. Bailey finished the year with a perfect 1.000 fielding percentage after collecting 40 put-outs and two assists in 42 total chances with zero errors. Not surprisingly, Bailey earned All-Western League first team honors along with pitcher/first baseman Roman Hawk and pitcher/designated hitter Ian Sul-livan. Palisades finished 18-11.
On the college diamond, Jack Gurevitch, a former PPBA All-Star and Sherman Oaks Notre Dame High standout, enjoyed a breakthrough season at the University of San Diego. The junior infielder led the Toreros in batting average (.371), OPS (1.158), runs (56), hits (85), homers (17), total bases (156), runs batted in (56), slugging percentage (.681), walks (35) and was second in RBIs (56). In the field he had a .984 percentage with 325 put-outs and 39 asssists as the Toreros went 19-5 in the West Coast Conference.
Zach Ritts had an afternoon to remember in March. In the second game of a doubleheader against Asbury, the Oberlin College third baseman stole seven bases to set a school and North Coast Athletic Conference record. His total tied him with three other players for the second-most steals in a single game in NCAA Division III history. Ritts grew up in the Highlands, played in the PPBA, went to Marquez Elementary and Paul Revere Middle School and was the opening day pitcher for Palisades High his senior year.
Miller Moss passed for 2,679 yards and 16 touchdowns for Louisville, which defeated Toledo in the Boca Raton Bowl. Photo: Steve Galluzzo
Palisades High soccer alum and 2016 Post Cup Award winner Kaitlyn Parcell, who lost her childhood home in the Palisades Fire, led Fortuna Hjorring to the Denmark Premier League title and the Danish Cup championship.
At the City swim finals, Palisades’ medley relay team of William Ryan, Riley Amis, Christopher Goodman and Roi Levertov took first and Levertov won the 50 freestyle sprint.
On the college gridion, Miller Moss enjoyed a stellar senior season at Louisville, throwing for 2,679 yards and 16 touchdowns while leading the Cardinals to a 9-4 record, capped by Tuesday’s 27-22 victory over Toledo in the Bush’s Boca Raton Bowl.
The Palisadian threw two scoring passes to receiver Chris Bell and ran for another score in a 24-21 upset of then No. 2-ranked Miami in a nationally-televised game in Florida in October.
A remarkable career came to an end November 2 in Chicago when Angel City FC captain Ali Riley, who grew up in the Alphabet Streets, played her last professional soccer game.
Angel City FC star Ali Riley retired after the NWSL season, marking the end of her remarkable pro soccer career. Courtesy of Angel City FC
She grew up playing for the Westside BReakers and SoCalUnited club teams, was a two-time Mission League Offensive MVP at Harvard-Westlake and a four-year starter at Stanford, leading the Cardinal to the NCAA semifinals in 2008 and the finals in 2009. She played for the New Zealand National team at five FIFA Women’s World Cups (2007, 2011, 2015, 2019, 2023) and four Summer Olympics (2008, 2021, 2016, 2020) and was 2010 Rookie of the Year with WPS champion FC Gold Pride. The next season she was a Defender of the Year finalist with WPS champion New York Flash. She won multiple league titles for Rosengard (Sweden) from 2012-18, played one season each for Chelsea FC in England and Bayern Munich in Germany and captained Angel City FC in the NWSL from 2022-25.
Dean Christopher is the Shohei Ohtani of Pali Dad Bod, one of the most revered bocce franchises on the planet. The front-foot right-hander with a strong, deep-left rail game led his team to a 5-0 record.
Off the court, he showed his tap-dancing skills at the “Holiday Soiree” to his room full of screaming, adoring fans.
Palisades lacrosse freshman middie Elexus Ray scored a single-season record 113 goals in the spring. Photo: Steve Galluzzo
Palisades High’s cross country teams swept the City Championships in November at Elysian Park. Senior Zach Cohen won the Division I boys race after finishing second in the City 3200 meter finals in the spring and fourth in the Palisades Will Rogers 5K on the Fourth of July. Cohen surged to the lead in the second mile and seventh in 20:49.0. Senior Louisa Mammen (21:16.7), freshman Maribel Henderson-Maclennan (21:21.0) and junior Zoey Morris (21:22.3) were 10th through 12th.
Brentwood School junior Amelia Sarkisian won the Varsity Small Schools race by more than two minutes at the Bellarmine/Sacred Heart Invitational in September in Griffith Park. In a field of 93 competitors, she covered the three-mile route in 19:43.0 to repeat as champion after taking first in the same race in 18:46.6 as a 10th-grader. Three days later Sarkisian won a third straight race
Zach Cohen won the Division I boys race at Elysian Park and paced Palisades to a fifth straight City cross country title. Photo: Steve Galluzzo
and fourth of the season with a 17:58.2 effort in the second Gold Coast League meet. She won the first Gold Coast League race Sept.
25 in 18:41.10 after capturing her third consecutive Brentwood Small Schools Invitational title in 17:59.3 on Sept. 13. She clocked a season-best 17:15.8 to place 64th
in the Girls Sweepstakes race at Woodbridge. Freshman teammate and Highlands resident Keaton Schaefer won the Turkey Trot 5K on Thanksgiving in 18:55 and Pali High alum Sarah Bentley was the first female finisher in the 10K with a time of 37:43.
When it comes to pursuing victory with honor, no one has lived up to that standard better than Palisades High baseball coach Mike Voelkel, who stepped down in July after 18 successful seasons in which he accumulated 316 wins, 11 Western League titles and an Open Division finals appearance at Dodger Stadium.
In March he became the first coach in school history to receive the CIF state Model Coach Award, given annually to coaches who exhibit positive role modeling, leadership and community service.
“I understand you’re judged by wins and losses but the Model Coach Award means more to me than winning 300 games or making the Hall of Fame,” he said. “It justifies I tried to meet those high standards, pursuing victory with honor, playing by the rules. Our players always had high GPAs. I developed the talent we had and that’s what I’m most proud of.”
In the aftermath of the Palisades Fire in January the baseball field was cemented over to create space for portable classrooms, but Voelkel handled the situation like a pro, moving practices to Cheviot Hills Rec Center and scheduling a full slate of games. The Dolphins finished 18-11 and reached the City Division I quarterfinals. Along the way, they got a pep talk from Dodgers manager Dave Roberts and were invited to a game at Dodger Stadium.
While Voelkel is deserving of the honor, others worthy of mention are Pali High football coach Dylen Smith, who improved to 28-7 over three seasons while guiding the Dolphins to an undefeated regular season and a Western League title; Pali High tennis coach Bud Kling, who claimed his 53rd and 54th City championships after leading the boys and girls to section titles; Vijay Srinivasan and John Skinner, who piloted the Palisades Recreation Center’s Coed Minor All-Star basketball squad to the Citywide Tournament title in April; and Marymount volleyball coach Cari Klein, who passed the 700-win plateau in August.
The annual Palisadian-Post Football Contest, giving readers a chance to predict upcoming game winners, is back in season.
“Every week, the Palisadian-Post will have a selection of NFL and college football games,” according to the contest rules. “Check the team you think will win each game. The person with the most correct picks wins. In the event there is a tie, the tie-breaker will be used to determine the winner.”
There is an online submission process, making it easier than ever to participate. Contestants can simply download or copy their entry form, fill in their picks, take a photo and email it back to footballcontest@palipost.com by the 5 p.m. Friday deadline. The contest runs through the end of the NFL regular season.
The deadline to enter for Week 16 is December 19 at 5 p.m. The entry form will be posted no later than Thursday each week on the Post website, Facebook and Instagram.
Only one entry per person per contest will be accepted. Winners will receive a $10 gift card by email from our new contest sponsor, The Yogurt Shoppe (located at 11726 Barrington Ct. in Brentwood Village). The Post thanks The Yogurt Shoppe for allowing us to continue this 30-year-old tradition.
Good luck to all participants and happy prognosticating!
