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Court Case

Granada Hills’ Ian Wood tries to float the ball over a pair of Palisades blockers in last Wednesday’s City quarterfinal.
Photo: Steve Galluzzo

By STEVE GALLUZZO | Sports Editor

Having received the No. 5 seed in the City Open Division boys volleyball playoffs, Palisades did not get to begin the postseason in its own gym. Instead, the Dolphins traveled north on the 405 to Granada Hills to try to take down the No. 4 Highlanders, who finished third in the West Valley League behind defending City champion Chatsworth and El Camino Real. The Dolphins used the slight as fuel in a 25-17, 28-26, 30-28 quarterfinal sweep.

“We felt disrespected with the No. 5 seed,” senior outside hitter Pierce Bergstein said. “We should’ve been higher and this result proves that. Knowing this could’ve been our last game definitely lit a fire under us!”

Bergstein’s emphatic kill gave Palisades a set point in the second set and a crosscourt spike by Enzo Torres gave the Western League champions a two sets to none lead.

The Dolphins went up 21-14 in the third set, looking to close out the match qucikly, but the Highlanders chipped away point by point and eventually nudged ahead 24-23. A joust at the net went Palisades’ way and Bergstein’s kill gave his team a match point that was erased by a serve long. Finally, on the third match point, the Highlanders werecalled for a double touch and junior libero Sean Wahlig could breathe a sight of relief knowing there would be practice the next day.

“I wasn’t concerned because a seed is just a number—it’s still the same amount of games to win the championship. We had really good practices leading up to this and we brought what we worked on to the court.”

Closing out matches is something Palisades struggled with throughout the season so being able to finish off the Highlanders was a confidence boost for Bergstein.

“In so many of those situations we’ve lost this year but we learned we can’t drop our energy when we get ahead,” he said. “We just had our three best practices of the season. We put ouselves in this predicament so there’s no more messing around.”

Palisades’ reward was a semifinal showdown Tuesday at No. 1-seeded Chatsworth, which split two meetings with Palisades this season, losing a tight best-of-three match at the Venice Invitational and humbling the Dolphins in straight sets in the rematch at its own tournament. The Chancellors lost in four sets to Palisades in the City finals in 2022 but got revenge with a finals sweep last spring at Cal State Northridge.

“This is a chance for us to beat the top seed before the finals,” Wahlig said. “We’re looking forward to it.”

If victorious, the Dolphins will play Eagle Rock or ECR for the title Saturday at 6 p.m. at CSUN.

Robinson Leads Bruins to Title

Cooper Robinson
Photo Courtesy of UCLA Athletics

The UCLA men’s volleyball team claimed its 21st national title Saturday at The Pyramid and Palisadian Cooper Robinson was an unstoppable force for the Bruins, pounding 12 kills, serving an ace and getting three block assists in a 25-21, 25-20, 27-29, 25-21 victory over host Long Beach State.

Robinson, a 6-7 outside hitter, was a prep standout at Loyola High before coming to Westwood. The resdshirt sophomore has been part of back-to-back NCAA title teams and was a second team All-MPSF selection this season. Also on the roster is another Loyola product, freshman middle Spencer Graves, but he did not see action this year.

Historical Society to Host Annual Meeting, Honor Marquez Family Legacy

Photo courtesy of Sharon Kilbride

By SARAH SHMERLING | Editor-in-Chief

Pacific Palisades Historical Society will host its annual meeting on Monday, May 6, beginning at 7 p.m., which will feature a presentation titled “Honoring the Marquez Family Legacy.”

Community members are invited to attend the meeting, which is free, but RSVPs are requested at pacificpalisadeshistoric.org/contact-us or by email to pacpalhistoricalsociety@gmail.com.

The presentation will be given by historian Randy Young, who serves as the PPHS curator. It will focus on Ernest Marquez—the “treasured historian” who died in January at the age of 99—Angie Marquez Olivera and Rosemary Miano.

“I recorded video interviews with these three members of the Marquez family in the 1990s,” Young said in a statement shared by PPHS, “and I am editing their memories into a presentation, along with vintage photographs from our archives.”

Sharon Kilbride—Miano’s daughter, who campaigned the Marquez Family Cemetary in Santa Monica Canyon—is also slated to speak.

“Angie Olivera (1916-2002) and Rosemary Miano (1922-2013) were great-great granddaughters of Francisco Marquez, who was a co-recipient (with Ysidro Reyes) of the original 1839 Rancho Boca de Santa Monica Mexican land grant,” according to information sent by PPHS. “Ernest Marquez, also a lineal descendant of Francisco Marquez and Ysidro Reyes, was a self-taught historian who wrote five books, including an illustrated history of Rancho Boca de Santa Monica.”

During the meeting, PPHS members will also be asked to approve the slate of officers for 2024-25.

The historical society is focused on “preserving the heritage and culture” of the community, as well as “stories of its founding families.” The society is accepting new members, and donations, at its website.

The May 6 meeting will take place at Pierson Playhouse, located at 941 Temescal Canyon Road.

Jeff Bryant Hired as Pali High Hoops Coach

By STEVE GALLUZZO | Sports Editor

On Wednesday, May 1, at 12 p.m., Athletic Director Rocky Montz announced that Jeff Bryant has been hired as the boys head basketball coach at Palisades Charter High School. He will be on campus Tuesday, May 7, to meet the players.

Bryant resigned March 1 as basketball coach at West Ranch High in Santa Clarita after four and a half seasons in which his teams posted a 45-1 mark in Foothill League play, including three league titles, and a CIF Southern Section Open Division playoff berth in 2023. Bryant started off as an assistant at West Ranch in 2017 and took over the reins as varsity coach during the 2019-20 season.

Among Bryant’s former players who went on to Division I college programs are James Evans (UNLV), Andrew Meadow (Boise State), Jaqari Miles (Montana State) and Jazz Gardner (Nevada).

Bryant was among several candidates who interviewed for the job, and he becomes the sixth head coach in program history, replacing Dolphins alum and girls assistant LeBre Merritt, who served as interim boys coach in 2023-24 after Donzell Hayes and his staff were asked to step away from the team one day before the season opener following a tumultuous summer during which nine high-profile players transferred to Palisades in a period of six weeks, fueling questions about illegal offseason contact.

The City Section conducted an investigation and by the time last season started all but three of the transfers had been denied eligibility or left campus. Another senior quit the team after the season began.

Read more about Bryant’s hire in the Thursday, May 9, print edition of the Palisadian-Post.

Villa Council Presents ‘Archaeology, Museums and War: Strategies for the 21st Century’

Photo courtesy of Getty/Wikipedia

By SARAH SHMERLING | Editor-in-Chief

Palisadians are invited to attend a Villa Council Presents lecture either in person at Getty Villa or virtually via Zoom on Sunday, May 5, beginning at 4 p.m.

The “Archaeology, Museums and War: Strategies for the 21st Century” lecture is free to attend, but an advance ticket for in person or registration for online is required.

“Heritage destruction during wars in Iraq, Afghanistan, Syria and more recent conflicts have vastly increased the obligation of scholars to help preserve the art and material culture of antiquity,” read a statement from Getty Villa ahead of the lecture. “Classical archaeologist C. Brian Rose has first-hand experience with destruction and preservation efforts in conflict zones. He draws from his deep understanding of excavations and museums to reflect on cultural heritage today, repatriation requests and the importance of the past for the present.”

Rose is an American archaeologist, classical scholar and author. He is the James B. Pritchard professor of archaeology at University of Pennsylvania, as well as the ferry curator-in-charge of the Mediterranean Section of Penn Museum.

He has offered pre-deployment education and training for armed forces personnel who are bound for Iraq and Afghanistan, emphasizing “cultural heritage awareness and protection.”

“The Villa Council Presents is an annual lecture series related to the theme of antiquity made possible by the generous support of the Villa Council,” according to information provided by Getty Villa. “Founded in 2001, the council is comprised of dedicated supporters of the arts who believe strongly in the mission and goals of the Getty Villa and the Getty Museum.”

The event will take place in person at Getty Villa Auditorium, located at 17985 Pacific Coast Highway, as well as online via Zoom.

‘Around You’ by Palisadian Richard Harrington on Display at Gallery 169

Photos by Tanya Barcessat

By SARAH SHMERLING | Editor-in-Chief

An opening reception will take place on Saturday, May 4, from 5 to 8 p.m. for Palisadian British visual artist and design director Richard Harrington, whose work will be on display in his first solo show, “Around You,” at Gallery 169.

“Guided by worldly curiosity and an artistic soul, he began his career as a graphic designer in London and has helped define some of our time’s most iconic brands with his identity design direction, including Adidas, The Academy of Motion Pictures, Meta, The Oscars and IKEA,” read a statement from the gallery.

Harrington has been a resident of Marquez Knolls for the past five years, which he described as “a beautiful part of LA.” The solo show, which will remain up through June 10, is taking place “after many years of individual art commissions.”

“Here, he showcases his passion for Californian aesthetics, drawing inspiration from color palettes, light and simplistic geometric forms,” the statement continued. “By observing and capturing the unique color experiences that surround us in our environment, he believes there is hidden, colorful beauty in everyday life if we choose to look closer and embrace it.”

Harrington told the Palisadian-Post that there has been a “magical energy around the whole process leading up” to the show.

“I’ve been inspired by new experiences, which has made me very focused on the process of my work, its meaning and purpose of my creation,” he said. “Whilst preparing for the show, I’ve also been reminded mentally, of how deep you need to go into the creative process to produce something that feels right, from a personal artistic standpoint, and also something that you’re willing to share with others to experience.”

Valet is available for the opening reception, which will take place at Gallery 169, located at 169 W. Channel Road in Santa Monica Canyon. The evening will include “delicious cheese and charcuterie boards,” and live music by Emily Eisa—a pianist and composer—and her band.

“Richard’s paintings serve as visual documentation of color moments, memories and experiences, which he then distills into circular painted expressions,” the statement concluded. “This leaves the viewer with a pure color experience frozen in time. Born from a fascination with the relationship between human and machine, his application technique explores tension, movement and a physical presence that can be felt in his works.”

For more information, visit gallery169.com.

Pacific Palisades Art Association Show and Tell at Palisades Branch Library

Photo courtesy of Pacific Palisades Art Association

By SARAH SHMERLING | Editor-in-Chief

Pacific Palisades Art Association will host an Art Show and Tell on Wednesday, May 8, from 6 to 7:30 in the Palisades Branch Library Community Room.

“Feel free to bring any of your pieces to share and talk about,” PPAA wrote in an email ahead of the event. “Try and limit yourself to one to three pieces. We want to encourage everyone to share and have time to talk about their work.”

PPAA encouraged attendees to bring “artwork of all kinds.” They also suggested attendees bring food to share with the group.

“We will have light refreshments available to munch on during the show as we go around the room viewing each other’s artworks,” the invitation read.

PPAA is a nonprofit dedicated to “informing and showing art in Pacific Palisades,” according to its website: “We serve as a community gathering for local artists.”

The association hosts events throughout the year, including art shows and sales, as well as artist talks.

Palisades Branch Library is located at 861 Alma Real Drive.

The C.H.I.P.S. Annual Fundraiser to Take Place at Bel-Air Bay Club

2023 event
Photo courtesy of The C.H.I.P.S.

By SARAH SHMERLING | Editor-in-Chief

The C.H.I.P.S. are hosting their annual spring benefit on Thursday, May 9, at Bel-Air Bay Club in the Upper Club.

“The Colleagues Helpers in Philanthropic Service (C.H.I.P.S.) are a group of 50 volunteers working together to provide program and fundraising support to local charities in an effort to help women and children who have been traumatized by violence, abuse and neglect,” according to its website. “With over half a million children living in poverty in Los Angeles alone, we understand how critical it is to support local programs that help break the cycle of poverty and violence.”

Founded in 1966, the organization was originally formed by the daughters and daughters-in-law of The Colleagues.

The event will feature food, an open bar, silent auction, on-site vendors and “an honoree you won’t want to miss.”

All proceeds raised will go toward supporting Vision to Learn—which is an organization that offers eye exams and glasses to children in underserved communities.

“Providing corrective lenses for young students is such a basic need, and one that is often overlooked by school faculties and staff, parents and healthcare providers,” read The C.H.I.P.S. website. “We’re honored to partner with Vision to Learn to help provide children the support they need to excel in academics and life.”

Each year, The C.H.I.P.S. hosts a spring benefit featuring a fashion partner. Past events have included partnerships with A.L.C., elysewalker, Brunello Cucinelli and Veronica Beard.

Individual tickets to the benefit are available for $275. Questions can be directed to thechips1966@gmail.com.

Irene Dunne Guild to Host ‘Think Pink for Women’s Wellness’ Fundraiser

A previous event
Photo courtesy of Irene Dunne Guild

By LILY TINOCO | Assistant Editor

The Irene Dunne Guild will host “Think Pink for Women’s Wellness”—a fundraiser focused on “health education and awareness for women and their families”—on Wednesday, May 8, from 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Bel-Air Bay Club Upper Club.

“The Irene Dunne Guild, a support group of Saint John’s Health Center Foundation, raises funds for women’s health, nursing scholarships, new medical equipment, programs for caregivers and family support services,” according to a press release from the organization.

The May 8 fundraising event is described as an “informative, fun and social” day, featuring breakout sessions, lectures from physicians and health experts. Previous topics have included healthy brain aging, addiction, urology, dermatology and breast health.

Think Pink is set to culminate with a luncheon by executive chef Peter Edwards, held in the dining room at the Upper Bel-Air Bay Club overlooking the Pacific Ocean.

Boutique shopping will be available throughout the event, with the proceeds benefiting the programs, equipment and services at Providence Saint John’s Health Center, including its new Women’s Health and Wellness Institute.

Tickets for the 2024 event, which is co-chaired by Lorena Craven and Suzanne Caldwell, are $195 per person.

For more information or to purchase a ticket, visit irenedunneguild.org or contact Saint John’s Health Center Foundation at 310-829-8424.

‘Mahj, Martinis & Diamonds’ Mother’s Day Event

Photo courtesy of Palisades Gift Shop

By LILY TINOCO | Assistant Editor

Palisades Gift Shop and LE Jewelry are partnering to host “Mahj, Martinis & Diamonds” for Mother’s Day on Friday, May 3, from 5:30 to 8 p.m.

The event is billed as a “fun night for moms to relax, sip on some cocktails, play Mahjong and shop,” according to a description.

“Not to mention a 360-degree view of the ocean at a private residence in the Palisades,” the description continued.

Cocktails and bites will be served, and jewelry and “all things” Mahjong will be available for purchase.

“Bring a mom friend or two, for a nice Mother’s Day treat,” according to the event.

“Ready to play” tickets for the event are $25 per person, while lessons are $75 per person. The address of the event is given upon RSVP.

For more information or to register, visit palisadesgiftshop.com/event-details/mahj-martinis-for-mothers-day.