The recent Palisades Fire has left our community saddened and heartbroken, searching for next steps. Having made both a home and a business in the neighborhood, I have raised my two children in the midst of a dynamic natural environment. With the option to ride bikes in the flat streets, walk down to the beach or hike in the many green trails, there was no shortage of outdoor activities. We made so many friends through the schools, the church, the Pacific Palisades Baseball Association and the local YMCA. The annual PPBA pancake breakfasts! We watched the original quaint Village transform from “mom & pop” businesses to include more high end shops and restaurants. The beautification continued throughout the original district restoring and putting a new polish on both the businesses and the homes. At some point our public library was remodeled into a contemporary, light-filled space, adjacent to the park transforming it into a welcoming spot for all. On the Fourth of July, there was no better place to be! Starting with the 5K run, residents poured onto the streets in advance of the afternoon parade, and back out to the high school or the bluffs to witness the spectacular fireworks show with spirited live music after dark. It was quite something! My hope is that spirit is renewed as we re-build Pacific Palisades and make it more beautiful and resilient for the future.
