Attendees were invited to “dive into the new school year” with the Palisades Charter High School Booster Club, which celebrated during a Kick-Off Party on Wednesday, August 21, at Pacific Palisades Woman’s Club.
The evening, with the theme “Dive into Pali Spirit,” was hosted by the Booster Club and Paul family—Jamee Natella, Steven Paul and Sammy Paul.
Festivities included music, a photobooth, pizza, cocktails, sushi and more. Booths were also set up, focusing on the school’s athletics and awards they had received for football, basketball and other sports.
The team that made this year’s event possible includes Molly Sigworth, Johanna Minassian, Bronwyn Major, Rene Rodman, Sepi Nazarian, Melissa Anna, Erika Feresten, Sue Selzer, Dr. Stefanus Hadi, Dorothianne Carr, Dick Held, Alissa Bartle, Mariam Engel, Ramani Andreas, Shalane Respondek, Daryn Simons, Patricia Chang, Tania Greenberg, Emma Klein, Caitlin Colvin, JoAnna Rodriguez and Julie Ephraim.
Bita Alishahi was in charge of the event’s centerpieces and “captured the Pali spirit” with its signature colors of white and blue, according to Natella.
Natella reported a “massive success,” that the event was able to raise well over its goal for the night.
Funds raised by the Booster Club help sponsor and go toward a number of things at Pali High, including Model United Nations, girls and boys lacrosse, the Robotics Club, Junior State of America Conference, field trips, competitions, a dolphin costume replacement, a projector for Mercer Hall, the senior class picnic, and more.
This event’s donors include Natella, Steven Paul, Feresten, Sigworth, Loanna Bouris, Shadi Amiri, Held, Sarah Brower, Andre Ulloa, Alana Ulloa, Niki Yadegar, Nika Ghiyasi, Niki Azema, Naghmeh Nikki Farzadmehr, Wendy Lang-Uygur and Jan Le Chang.
“Although we haven’t met our financial goals for the year,” Natella shared with the Palisadian-Post, “it was a great way to dive back into the Pali Spirit and hit our financial goals for the evening.”
Pictured, from left: Amster, Ly and Wharton Photo by Sarah Shmerling
By SARAH SHMERLING | Editor-in-Chief
The community was invited to attend and provide feedback on the Pacific Palisades Pedestrian Trail Project during an open forum at Palisades Branch Library on Wednesday evening, August 21.
Presentations were made by City of Los Angeles Bureau of Engineering Project Manager Kristen Ly and Project Consultant Goodwin Wharton of Geosyntec Consultants—which is charged with completing the feasibility study. Michael Amster, field deputy for Councilmember Traci Park, also attended the meeting.
“This was a preliminary meeting to inform the Palisades community that this project is underway and to obtain community feedback,” Pacific Palisades Community Council wrote in a bulletin following the meeting.
When complete, the trail—formerly known as the Lateral Trail—will extend from the bottom of George Wolfberg Park at Potrero Canyon along Pacific Coast Highway to the Temescal Canyon Road crosswalk light, “in order to provide safe passage from the park to the beach,” according to PPCC.
“Trail alignment [is] needed for land use agreements with Caltrans,” read a slideshow during the meeting. Caltrans owns a portion of the land the trail would be constructed on. The preliminary study would narrow down alternatives, with Ly stating they “want to be final, but we need something to get the ball rolling.”
The current scope of work includes community outreach, a topographic study (which is in progress) and feasibility analysis for alternative trail locations.
Feasibility considerations include route directness, user experience (including views and traffic noise), pedestrian safety (including traffic), slope stability and rock fall hazard, trail longevity and maintenance requirements, and protected trees and habitat, Wharton explained. They are also considering potential environmental contamination, stormwater drainage, constructability and the integration with the Pedestrian Bridge Project.
Hypothetical trail alternatives Courtesy of Geosyntec Consultants
The Pacific Palisades Pedestrian Trail project is separate from the Potrero Canyon Pedestrian/Bicycle Bridge project, which is currently in its public outreach phase and would develop a bridge that connects Will Rogers State Beach to the park.
“We are aware of each other, we’re all sharing the same space,” Ly described during a PPCC meeting on June 13. “So the [project manager] for the bridge project and myself are working pretty closely to make sure that we’re working together on this.”
A majority of the hour-long meeting was dedicated to allowing members of the community voice their concerns and provide feedback about the trail. Attendees were also invited to fill out a questionnaire.
Stakeholders expressed concerns over community safety, slope stability and the longevity of the trail, and examining the drainage in the area, which gets runoff from Pacific Coast Highway. Regarding public safety, one speaker suggested the installation of a fence along the trail.
At the time of the open forum, a timeline and budget were not available—as construction time and costs vary depending on what trail route is selected and developed, but a completion date was expected to be in 2027.
“We urge the city, BOE and Geosyntec to expedite this project and proceed swiftly in order to meet the 2027 target date for completion,” the PPCC Executive Committee wrote in an August 27 letter sent to area officials. “PPCC supports the trail—which was recommended by the former Potrero Canyon Community Advisory Committee in 2008, and has been a requirement of the Potrero Canyon Park Coastal Development Permit since 2014, yet 10 years later has not been constructed.”
Following the meeting, community stakeholders were invited to share their additional thoughts on the project in an online survey, which closed on Friday, August 30, at 5 p.m. The city said that an additional community meeting will be scheduled in the months ahead.
George Wolfberg Park at Potrero Canyon is a 46-acre passive park that spans from Palisades Recreation Center to Pacific Coast Highway. It opened, after decades of planning and construction, on December 10, 2022.
A link to a recording of the August 21 meeting is available via the PPCC website: pacpalicc.org.
Marquez Charter Elementary School Photo courtesy of Caitlin Machol
By SARAH SHMERLING | Editor-in-Chief
With school back in swing for the 2024-25 academic year, fundraising efforts to support charter schools across Pacific Palisades are now underway.
Fiesta Photo by Rieko Takagi
Canyon Charter Elementary School
Friends of Canyon Charter Elementary School
When it comes to supporting programming at Canyon Charter Elementary School, the community is invited to give back through Friends of Canyon Charter Elementary School.
“With dramatic cuts in our state education budget and the global pandemic forcing the closure of our campus and hindering our ability to hold fundraising events, Canyon seeks contributions from generous families, community members, local businesses and grants to help raise much-needed funds for instructional and enrichment programs,” read the Friends of Canyon website.
Contributions help fund 60% of instructional aides for each classroom, as well as 100% of the P.E. program (including instructor’s salary and equipment); art, music and drama instructors; digital learning instructor and 1:1 Chromebooks for each student; reading specialist; science teacher and dedicated science lab; and one full-time upper-grade teacher, which helps reduce class size.
Throughout the year, Canyon hosts fundraising events, like the annual Canyon Fiesta on May 18, 2025, with games, food and entertainment, which dates back decades to help support the school.
Other events include the Party Book launch event at Golden Bull on September 27, where parents will purchase tickets to attend and sign up for parties that will take place over the 2024-25 academic year, with proceeds supporting Canyon.
The school’s annual Olympics Day is scheduled for November 22.
“We greatly appreciate your financial support,” the website read, “and please know that 100% of funds raised by Canyon Booster go right back to our students.”
Friends of Marquez is a nonprofit run by parents “to fund supplemental educational programs to enrich the curriculum of basic education” at Marquez Charter Elementary School.
Some of the programming supported by FOM includes additional teachers—two full-time classroom teachers, including a dedicated science teacher.
“The majority of the FOM budget goes towards additional teachers and staff,” read the FOM website. “This reduces class sizes and lowers our teacher-student ratio. It also helps us to avoid combining grade levels.”
Funding also supports hourly in-class aides; P.E. and karate; art and music; gardening with EnrichLA; robotics; and fifth-grade musicals. Marquez added a third kindergarten class for the 2024-25 academic year.
In November 2023, Marquez revealed a renovated garden space, which was accomplished through a partnership with EnrichLA, which builds, cares for and teaches in “organic regenerative” school gardens throughout the area. FOM said the garden has been “a huge hit,” and that it “grew an incredible amount of vegetables over the summer.”
FOM is planning a Halloween Festival with a haunted house, carnival games, pumpkins and prizes on Sunday, October 20, from 12 to 3 p.m. at the campus, as well as several other events throughout the year.
“Let’s work together to build this amazing Marquez community,” the FOM website—which was recently redesigned—read.
Palisades Charter Elementary School is supported by the efforts of PEP—Palisades Enrichment Programs, a parent-run organization.
“Pali Elementary is a California Distinguished School and one of LAUSD’s top schools due in large part to parental involvement and generous donations,” read the PEP website. “Please help our school maintain this status and support our children in their educational journey.”
The parent-led Pali Giving Fundraising Campaign kicked off in August with community, business and alumni sponsorship opportunities.
PEP uses the funds it raises to “hire additional teachers and teacher’s aides,” “effectively reducing class size, providing teachers with critical support in class, and enabling core enrichment classes,” according to its website. Some of these “core enrichments” are music, tech, a garden and P.E.
PEP is planning its annual Yee Haw Fall Festival, which will take place on September 28 from 1 to 5 p.m. at the school. The fundraising afternoon will have food vendors, game and craft booths, an obstacle course, corn maze, and more. There will be a photo booth, balloon twist, and performances by Fancy Feet and Palisades Studio.
“Our goal through Yee Haw Day is to connect with our community on a personal level and create supportive partnerships with local businesses and organizations,” read the Yee Haw Day website. “The Palisades is made up of so many families, and we take pride in knowing that many have or will attend our school.”
The school’s annual Gala and Auction will take place on February 7, 2025.
The PCHS Fund and Palisades High School Booster Club
Palisades Charter High School is supported by The PCHS Fund and Palisades High School Booster Club.
“The PCHS Fund supports the annual budget of PCHS and directly impacts students, faculty and staff,” according to Pali High. “This ensures the sustainability of our important core programs where state and federal funding fall short and gives each student every opportunity to succeed.”
This includes academic counseling, the College Center, team competition transportation (athletics and clubs), math aides, tutoring and technology.
“The Palisades High School Booster Club focuses on the immediate needs of our students not covered by the school’s budget,” read the Pali High website. “These include innovative academic programs, field trips, visual and performing arts, athletics, and extracurricular activities.”
Some of the programs supported by the booster club are the Robotics Club (equipment and materials for Vex Robotics Competition), Drama (supplementing three productions) and Gymnasium (championship banners). In the past year, the club supported a projector/screen for Mercer Hall, Model UN, girls and boys lacrosse, the Senior Class Picnic, and more.
There is an annual auction/gala fundraising event that takes place in spring.
Paul Revere Charter Middle School and Magnet Center
PRIDE Booster Club
PRIDE Booster Club—the parent-teacher organization that supports Paul Revere Charter Middle School and Magnet Center—stands for Parent Resources for Individual Development and Enrichment.
“Our school offerings, curriculum and technology are all geared to give our kids a solid foundation for future success,” read the PRIDE website. “These include exceptional programs in orchestra, band and choir; journalism, yearbook and photography; first-rate physical education and athletic teams; lunch clubs; and even a working farm.”
Some of the programming supported by PRIDE includes a pending renovation of the school auditorium, the annual Literary Anthology, Reflections Art Contest and Student Film Festival, and campus beautification projects.
In addition to collecting funds, PRIDE also hosts fundraising events during the year, like an auction event in spring.
“Your support is crucial to maintain all the wonderful programs that PRMS offers,” read a flyer about PRIDE, which has a goal of raising 50% of its total annual ask by Thanksgiving.
The Palisadian-Post presents an homage to Will Rogers’ column, “Will Rogers Says,” with a column by Palisadian Jimmy Dunne—on life in the “greatest town in America.”
Holding Court for a Moment in Time
Labor Day.
A stunning day at the beach.
So many folks at Bel-Air Bay Club were snuggled up courtside to the paddle tennis courts—glued to the drama of the Mixed Doubles Club Championships.
I was off to the side, kind of rocking and cuddling a treasure of my life, my grandson Whit.
Even though Whit only knows how to say “balls” and “score!” and “momma” and a couple more goodies, I was explaining the importance of what he was watching.
A Labor Day tradition for 85 years.
The revered club championship matches—right here on this very court. Creating generations of memories.
Watching the finals—some were young parents, some holding their babies, many having lunch and sipping on a cold beer or summer drink.
Everybody cheering on somebody in this club’s mini-me “Wimbledon.”
I misspoke. Bigger than Wimbledon.
Only the prize is just a little different. Forever bragging rights, a pic in the club newsletter—and a couple of drink tokens.
…………..
Next to the ice machine against the wall, I spotted in the back of the crowd—a woman sitting by herself in her early 90s.
Patty Burns.
Always right at her side, her walker that she needs to get around these days.
I’ve known Patty for a long, long time.
Everybody loved her husband George, an absolute gem of a man—before he passed away about 15 years ago.
Bel-Air Bay Club has always been the lifelong second home of best friends for Patty and George. Now, with her hubby and the love of her life gone, it gets harder with each passing year.
And less and less and less of her “besties” are still alive.
…………..
My eyes weren’t drawn to the players. They were to her.
I was imagining what she was seeing on that court.
Not just another club’s championships.
On the court was her daughter, Suzy, and her grandson, Chase.
Competing against a spectacularly talented and competitive Merrie Mac Bleeker and Tim Gerlach.
But I could see in Patty’s eyes that she was watching something else.
Something wonderful that was playing in her mind.
Kind of Patty’s own movie version of “Somewhere in Time.”
Her eyes said the noise and chatter of the courts just disappeared … she drifted back in time to the late ’70s—with George and her four fabulous kids.
Probably imagining how she ran the old-fashioned “Fourth of July” Day at the club. The crazy “Cake Eating Contests.” And the sing-a-longs with the Tommy Dorsey knock-off large “dance bands.”
Or running the “South Sea Island” party with the humungous plastic pool dug right in the sand.
The music of the day. The cocktails. The happy. The simplicity …
All with the “Belles of the Ball,” her pals Dallas Price, Marion Niles, Gail Didden, Sharon Browning, Dottie Henkle and so many other cherished pals.
Maybe Patty was taken back exactly 40 years ago to the day …
Winning with Bob Bennett in Mixed Doubles and then again with Rick Beckendorf. And winning the Ladies’ Legends with Price to a dazzled crowd of fans and pals.
Or maybe Patty was flashing back to some of Suzy’s many club championships. Or the “Husband & Wife” Championship Suzy won with her hubby Jeff, who Patty knows is the greatest son-in-law ever. Or Singles and Doubles titles her grandson Chase has captured on this hallowed court.
…………..
With the match on the line, Chase made the “gentlemanly” call—giving a key point to their opponents.
I could see in Patty’s eyes what that meant to her. So much more than winning anything at all.
With the crowd cheering wildly, Chase and Suzy took the crown.
There Patty sat. Didn’t even clap. Just watched everyone else.
She took a deep breath to hold it all in.
Holding in maybe the greatest memory, winning the Women’s Doubles with her daughter Suzy—three decades ago.
And here was Patty, watching her daughter having the same moment with her son.
The athletic director took the pictures on the court and handed out the awards.
But here’s what I know.
No one won more, felt more or lived more than Patty that day.
Patty won.
Life.
I suppose if you’re fortunate enough to still be above ground in your 80s and 90s, the prize is … emotionally cashing in.
Knowing you did good. Knowing you put a smile on the world.
Knowing you “held court” for a moment in time—with your head up.
And knowing, more than anything, you were loved, and they loved you back.
Cheers to you, Patty Burns.
How the world loves you back.
Jimmy Dunne is a modern-day Renaissance Man; a hit songwriter (28 million hit records), screenwriter/producer of hit television series, award-winning author, an entrepreneur—and a Palisadian “Citizen of the Year.” You can reach him at j@jimmydunne.com or jimmydunne.substack.com.
Kudos to Gelson’s for switching to compostable produce bags!
Coffee Continued
So curious who the person was who posted in opposition to the Marquez Coffee Movement. Must be a good cause if we have dissenters! #Marquoffee2024
Trash Cans
Why put your dog’s poop in your own trash can, especially when it is only a few feet away? Because I doo!
Miles
Pali High and UCLA alum, Olympian Miles Partain, won the AVP Chicago beach volleyball. Looked real smooth by the banks of Lake Michigan. I saw it on TV.
Dog Response I
Aren’t there more important issues to complain about than dogs at the Farmers Market?
Dog Response II
Is it really that big of an issue? Maybe you just feel that way because you DON’T have a dog. If you did, you’d feel differently.
Dog Response III
Just try shopping at CVS for much more Entitled Palisadian shenanigans.
Got something to say? Call 310-454-1321 or email 2cents@palipost.com and get those kudos or concerns off your chest. Names will not be used.
The Palisadian-Post has partnered with locally founded environmental organization Resilient Palisades to deliver a “green tip” to our readers in each newspaper. This edition’s tip was written by Valeria Serna, a member of the Plant-Based solutions, Zero Waste and Water Sages teams.
As the effects of climate change become more evident—with record-breaking temperatures and extreme weather events—it is increasingly clear that immediate action is necessary.
This past week, residents of Pacific Palisades experienced a heatwave that pushed temperatures into the 100s, breaking records and bringing the climate crisis to the forefront of the conversation.
While the heat serves as a reminder of the challenges ahead, it is not all doom and gloom—there are efforts underway to address these issues.
Enter LA Climate Week 2024, an inaugural event September 8 to 15 that brings together the private and public sectors to tackle the climate crisis with innovative and practical solutions. This landmark event provides a platform for experts, policymakers and organizations to share insights, propose legislative actions and explore cutting-edge technologies that can help curb the effects of climate change.
One of the most inspiring examples of climate-forward policy comes from West Hollywood, a city that has set a visionary precedent by mandating plant-based food by default at all city-sponsored events. This policy, along with many others, will be a focal point during LA Climate Week, showcasing the power of local legislation to impact environmental sustainability. The city’s actions exemplify how practical steps can lead to real change, making it a trailblazer in climate policy across the region.
The event lineup for LA Climate Week features a wide array of topics, from reducing fossil fuel dependency to promoting electrification as a means of cutting carbon emissions. Resilient Palisades member and environmental attorney Lisa Boyle was a panelist.
Additionally, there will be discussions on incorporating biomimicry principles—learning from nature’s own designs to innovate sustainable solutions—as well as the importance of installing native landscapes to preserve biodiversity and reduce water consumption. These themes will be explored through panels, presentations and live discussions, both in person and online, allowing attendees from all walks of life to participate.
One of the standout sessions of the week will focus on the pressing need to transition away from fossil fuels, and electrify our homes and transportation systems, all while promoting green jobs and investing in renewable energy sources.
Another key panel will highlight the role of urban landscapes in mitigating climate change, advocating for the replacement of water-thirsty lawns with native plants that not only conserve resources but also contribute to the local ecosystem.
Whether you’re looking for an outing or prefer to tune in virtually, LA Climate Week has something for everyone. The event kicked off on Sunday, September 8, with a presentation by leading Los Angeles policymakers, setting the stage for a week of discussions that will challenge the status quo and offer actionable solutions. It concludes on September 15 with a special live production of “Ecopolis,” a performance that will encapsulate the essence of ecological urban development.
LA Climate Week promises to be an unmissable event for anyone passionate about addressing the climate crisis and learning more about what can be done at both local and global levels.
For more information on how to attend and participate in LA Climate Week 2024, visit lu.ma/LAClimateWeek.
500 El Medio Avenue, August 14 at 1:30 p.m. Suspects smashed rear French door. Suspects ransacked several rooms, and took cuff links and watch worth $400. Suspects entered sedan and fled.
16000 Anoka Drive, August 14 at 4:41 p.m. Three suspects smashed rear window. This triggered alarm and ACS responded. Driver of the vehicle saw ACS and honked, alerting suspects still inside residence. Suspects ran to vehicle and fled. Suspects unable to take safe. Suspect vehicle was a black Cadillac.
13900 W Sunset Boulevard, August 17 at 11:30 p.m. Suspects smashed rear glass door, entered, ransacked and removed safe containing money and jewelry valued at $165,000.
Aggravated Assault
15100 W Sunset Boulevard, August 15 at 3:34 p.m. Victim was trying to pass by the suspect to go to work. While they were both standing in the driveway of 15140 Sunset Boulevard, the suspect told him, “You can’t walk here.” The suspect then kicked the victim with his foot, causing him to fall and hit his head and lose consciousness. Suspect arrested for felony battery.
Provided by LAPD Senior Lead Officer Brian Espin. In case of emergency, call 911. To report a non-emergency, call 877-275-5273.
The Marquez Knolls Property Owners Association will host its annual Block Party on Saturday, September 14, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. on the sidewalk of Marquez Avenue.
“This community event will bring together neighbors, local businesses and families for a day of fun, food and festivities,” read a statement about the event.
The Block Party will include free hot dogs from ACS Security, as well as live performances by Alper’s Young Musician, Gerry Blanck’s Martial Arts Studio, Palisades Dance Studio and New Vibes Gymnastics.
Visitors can try a massage chair provided by Oasis Palisades, while Ronny’s Market will provide free coffee and Knolls Pharmacy will have flu shots available.
Police cars and firetrucks will be available for guests to climb on and “take selfies,” and there will be a dedicated Kids’ Zone.
—SARAH SHMERLING
PPHS ‘Route 66’ Program | Via Mesa
Pacific Palisades Historical Society will host an “illustrated talk” by California Historic Route 66 Association President Scott Piotrowski on the “legendary highway” on Wednesday, September 18, beginning at 7 p.m. at Pierson Playhouse.
“Piotrowski, author of ‘Finding the End of the Mother Road: Route 66 in Los Angeles County’ and director of ‘158 Miles to Yesterday,’ will present a general overview of the highway’s history, some specific information pertaining to California and especially Los Angeles County, and several ‘different looks’ at the road (for example, walking experiences, mass transit and surprising California facts),” according to PPHS.
The event is free to attend, and all audience members will be able to enter a drawing for one of the organization’s Palisades Centennial Blankets.
—SARAH SHMERLING
Beach Clean Up | Temescal Canyon Park
Kehillat Israel will host its annual Tikkun Olam Beach Clean Up Day on Saturday, September 21, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
“Let’s come together, make a difference, and enjoy a day of community and care for our beautiful coastline,” read an email about the event.
Attendees are asked to meet at Temescal Canyon Park, near 233 Temescal Canyon Road (look for balloons). All ages are welcome, and students can earn community service hours for participation.
For more information or to register, visit ourki.org.
—SARAH SHMERLING
Barbershop Harmony Ice Cream Social | Upper El Medio
The Oceanaires will present a Barbershop Harmony Ice Cream Social on Saturday, September 14, from 2 to 4 p.m. at Palisades Lutheran Church, located at 15905 Sunset Boulevard.
“Join us for an afternoon of musical delights and fine frozen confections,” read a flyer.
The event will feature guest performances by Central Air, Kaleidoscope and Daisy Chain. There is a suggested donation of $25 to attend.
“The chorus and select quartets will perform popular and traditional songs in the barbershop style,” read the event website. “The performance will be followed by ice cream and opportunities to meet the singers.”
For more information or to register, visit evntn.co/e/VgOxL9DJ.
—SARAH SHMERLING
Class of 1964 Reunion | Pali High
The Palisades High School Class of 1964 will host a 60th reunion picnic at the school campus on Saturday, September 21, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
From 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., members of the class, along with family and friends, will convene. Then, the public is invited to meet and greet the “Spartans” of the Class of 1964—the first class to attend all years of high school at Pali High—who will be on hand to share stories from 2 to 4 p.m.
The evening before, the class will celebrate its reunion with a dinner on the FantaSea Yacht in Marina Del Rey, followed by an after party at a hotel.
The Chamber Orchestra Photo courtesy of Music Guild
By LILY TINOCO | Assistant Editor
St. Matthew’s Music Guild has announced its 40th anniversary season of concerts, presenting “world-class music close to home.”
“Music Guild concerts feature the critically acclaimed Chamber Orchestra at St. Matthew’s, under the direction of Dwayne S. Milburn, and an array of world-class soloists and ensembles,” according to a statement about the season.
The 2024-25 season begins on Friday, September 27, with saxophonist Jan Berry Baker performing Jacque Ibert’s “Concertino da Camera” and William Grant Still’s “Romance for Alto Saxophone and Strings.”
Baker is a professor of saxophone and head of woodwinds at UCLA Herb Alpert School of Music. He regularly performs with the Los Angeles Philharmonic, Chicago- and Atlanta-based symphonies, and different new music ensembles.
The program is also set to include a celebratory new work by conductor and composer Milburn, and concludes with Felix Mendelssohn’s “Italian Symphony.”
Other concerts this season include an all-Beethoven concert with Robert Thies on November 1; a Holiday Concert on December 6; a Valentine’s Day program of “love songs” with pianist David Kaplan on February 14, violinist YuEun Gemma Kim, soprano Liv Redpath and friends; and the world premiere of a new work commissioned by the Music Guild by composer and performer Dawn Norfleet on March 14.
The Music Guild’s Choral Initiative will present the 12-member, London-based Stile Antico in a program of Renaissance choral masterworks on April 4. LA Philharmonic Principal Flute Denis Bouriakov is also set to join the orchestra for Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart’s “Flute Concerto No. 1” and other works.
The anniversary season will include a Sunday afternoon “bonus” concert on May 4, celebrating the 40th anniversary of the dedication of the C.B. Fisk Pardee Organ at St. Matthew’s Church, with “one of the foremost organists of this generation,” Nathan Laube.
The season will conclude on May 30 with the Ukrainian-born pianist Inna Faliks performing the West Coast premiere of Richard Danielpour’s “Piano Concerto No. 4,” Gioacchino Rossini’s “Tancredi Overture” and Igor Stravinsky’s “Danse Concertantes.”
“Join us for our 40th anniversary season with The Chamber Orchestra at St. Matthew’s and world-class soloists and ensembles,” read the statement.
Tickets are available for $45, or part of a season pass for all eight concerts for $285. Ample parking will be available, and Music Guild offers free intermission refreshments.
All concerts will take place at St. Matthew’s Church, located at 1031 Bienveneda Avenue in Pacific Palisades.
For more information, tickets or season passes, visit musicguildonline.org or call 310-573-7422.
Palisadian Author Releases Sixth Book in Fiction Series, Following ‘Lovable’ and ‘Curious’ Little Mouse
By LILY TINOCO | Assistant Editor
Little Mouse goes on the biggest adventures—and Palisadian author Teresa Power’s latest in her series, “In Search of the Holy Grail,” is no exception.
The Marquez Knolls resident launched the Little Mouse Adventures book series in 2020 with “Yoga at the Zoo.” Power incorporated her love for yoga into her stories, as she is an internationally recognized expert on children’s yoga, with over 30 years of experience. She previously authored the bestselling series, “The ABCs of Yoga for Kids,” and founded International Kids’ Yoga Day
Power explained that the Little Mouse Adventure series follows “curious” Little Mouse and his best friend Mr. Opus, “the wise tabby cat.”
“I created the series with Little Mouse as the main character, as I wanted to write a picture book series using fun storytelling to teach yoga, mindfulness and life skills to children,” Power said to the Palisadian-Post. “In addition, animal characters—particularly those as endearing and relatable as mice—hold a special place in the heart of children’s literature. These characters serve as mirrors to a child’s world, reflecting their hopes, fears and dreams in a format that is both accessible and engaging.”
Power gave the Post a glimpse into her latest book, which published August 6, sharing that Little Mouse is left feeling sad in “In Search of the Holy Grail,” as he leaves the big city and Mr. Opus to move with his family to a farm out in the country with his grandparents.
Even though he is quick to make new friends—like Major the Horse and Maggie the Pig—Little Mouse finds that his “city ways” aren’t received well by the other animals.
“When his grandfather teaches him that showing appreciation and gratitude goes a long way with friends, it comes just in the nick of time when Little Mouse needs their help in thwarting old foes of their animal world,” according to a description of the book. “With a little yoga and some mindfulness, will Little Mouse and his friends be up to the challenge?”
Power said that her other Little Mouse books are picture books geared toward children 3 to 8 years old, with minimal text in the story. For this story, she wanted to write a chapter book for early readers, similar to the Magic Treehouse series.
“It is a longer story, with pictures, and teaches children important lessons in friendship, courage and faith,” Power explained.
Power has been a Palisadian since 1984. In an effort to combat the stresses of law school, she began practicing yoga, going on to teach yoga to adults and kids for 12 years. She uses “adventure and friendship stories” as the backdrop to foster early learning skills and the wellness power of yoga.
“Her mission is to make the life-changing practice of yoga accessible to everyone, regardless of age, location or finances,” according to a statement.
Interested readers can pick up “In Search of the Holy Grail” at all major bookstores, as well as Amazon. Power said there is an “adorable” Little Mouse stuffed animal that accompanies the book.
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