Real Estate Trends Emerge in Palisades as Rebuild Begins
With an estimated 2,000 properties affected by the fires, these initial sales represent only a fraction of what’s expected
In the five months following the devastating fires that swept through Pacific Palisades, 67 land sales have closed, offering early insight into post-disaster buyer behavior and property ownership trends, according to local real estate broker Anthony Marguleas of Amalfi Estates. The data, based on sales recorded through early June, shows that 12% of transactions occurred off-market—a percentage consistent with pre-fire patterns, suggesting little change in private dealmaking practices despite the area’s
upheaval.
A closer look at buyer activity reveals limited bulk purchasing by any single entity. “No buyer owns more than three properties,” Marguleas said in a statement. One developer purchased three parcels, while three others acquired two each. The anticipated influx of large-scale institutional investors buying up dozens or hundreds of lots has not materialized, alleviating some community concerns about corporate consolidation.
Ownership structure also sheds light on intent: 29 of the 67 parcels were purchased in personal names or trusts, suggesting owner-user interest. The remaining lots were acquired by LLCs or corporations, likely indicating developer or investor activity.
“Roughly half of these buyers appear to be planning to rebuild for personal use, with the rest representing investment or development interests,” said Marguleas.
With an estimated 2,000 properties affected by the fires, these initial 67 sales
represent only a fraction of what’s expected in the months and years ahead. Marguleas emphasized the importance of monitoring these early trends as a gauge of rebuilding
momentum and community recovery.
“This is still the beginning,” he noted. “But it gives us a valuable snapshot of what’s happening on the ground.”
Gladstones to Reopen After Suffering Partial Fire Damage, Offers Discounts to Locals
The eatery returns with a remodeled deck designed by an award-winning architect and a new mural
Gladstones, a beloved seaside restaurant in Malibu, will reopen its public deck on July 4, 2025, nearly six months after suffering partial damage in the devastating Palisades Fire, marking a milestone in the community’s recovery, the restaurant announced.
The iconic eatery, a West Los Angeles dining staple for over 50 years, was spared complete destruction in the January 2025 fire that scorched nearly 18,000 acres and destroyed over 5,300 structures. General Manager Jim Harris reported at the time that while an outside storage area burned, the restaurant largely withstood the blaze, though parts were seen smoking.
The reopening of the remodeled deck, designed by award-winning architect Stephen Francis Jones, features ample
To thank the community, Gladstones will offer 50% off food and drinks throughout July to Malibu and Pacific Palisades residents, as well as first responders. The restaurant,
Highway, has been under the ownership of Gladstones Legacy Group since October 2023, when staff members, including Harris, the assistant manager, chef, and parking lot manager, formed a new ownership team to keep it operational after a county lease transition.
A special sunset preview event on July 3 will feature food, drinks, and appearances by local officials, though specific attendees were not disclosed.
space for families and visitors to gather by the ocean. A new mural by Los Angeles street artist Jonas Never adorns the space, paying tribute to local culture and resilience.
located at 17300 Pacific Coast
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Palisades Baseball, 80 Local Businesses and Others Get Another $14M from FireAid Funds
The second-phase grants support financial and housing stability, mental health services, and community infrastructure
FireAid, the benefit concert that raised approximately $100 million for wildfire relief, announced the distribution of an additional $25 million in grants, bringing the total wildfire recovery funding to $75 million. The latest round, focused on longterm recovery, targets Pacific Palisades with over $14 million to restore community stability and well-being following the January wildfires.
The second-phase grants support financial and housing stability, mental health services, and community infrastructure.
In Pacific Palisades, key allocations include $700,000 to Pali Strong for recovery information and advocacy, and $500,000 to the City of LA Library/Library Foundation of LA for a temporary library site opening
this fall. Additionally, $1 million funds a wildfire preparedness vehicle for the area, enhancing safety ahead of the fire season.
The Malibu Pacific Palisades Chamber of Commerce Foundation received support to aid over 80 local small businesses with recovery resources and cash assistance, while Joe Torre Safe at Home provides mental health support at Palisades Charter High School’s temporary Santa Monica site. Palisades Baseball also received funding for a new field site.
The round is divided into categories: $5.95 million for continued relief, $16.975 million for recovery, $700,000 for critical information, $500,000 for Symbols of Hope, and $1 million for firefighting vehicles. The first $50 million, distributed in February, included over $21 million for Palisades, benefiting organizations like Westside Food Bank and Meals on Wheels West. FireAid’s Grants Advisory Committee, working with local groups, ensures funds address evolving needs, with all donations directed to relief efforts.
The Pacific Palisades Community Council plans to discuss the update at its June 12 meeting. Organizations can apply for future grants at FireAidLA.org.
Better is comprehensive women’s care that’s designed by women for women.
The new Women’s Health & Wellness Center at Saint John’s offers personalized, holistic care tailored to each and every patient, offering a full range of mental and physical care solutions, well-women exams, gynecology, cancer screenings, and surgical care. Patients are paired with a patient navigator who assists in care advocacy as well as coordinating appointments to ensure a seamless overall experience. A Women’s Health & Wellness Center that’s actually centered around women is just one of the many ways we treat you for the better.
Palisades Flowers Raises Over $10K, Nears Goal After Fire Destroys Shop
The blaze claimed the shop’s delivery van, tools, plants, and flowers, erasing a space that Phipps said was more than a workplace—it was a community hub
A beloved local flower shop, Palisades Flowers, is seeking community support through a GoFundMe campaign after a fire destroyed its storefront, leaving its team unemployed, according to the fundraiser’s organizer, Rosalyn Phipps.
The shop, a fixture in Pacific Palisades for over 20 years, was reduced to rubble during the Palisades Fire. Phipps, the lead designer, described watching the destruction unfold on live television around 11 p.m., a moment that left her and her team heartbroken. The blaze claimed the shop’s delivery van, tools, plants, and flowers, erasing a space that Phipps said was more than a workplace—it was a community hub where friendships and memories flourished.
Palisades Flowers served the neighborhood through countless milestones, from birthdays and weddings to funerals and first dates. “We crafted floral arrangements with passion, always surrounded by laughter, joy, and a little bit of silliness,” Phipps wrote on the fundraising page. The shop’s destruction has left its small team of florists and drivers facing sudden unemployment, grappling with financial uncertainty as they cover rent, bills, and groceries.
The GoFundMe campaign, launched shortly after the fire, has raised $10,618 of its $15,000 goal with 155 donations as of June 24, 2025. All funds will directly support the team’s immediate needs. Phipps emphasized the community’s generosity, noting contributions like a $750 donation from Alex Sinclair and recurring monthly donations of $25 from Natasha Wall.
In a June 5 update, Phipps shared that the team has since scattered, with each member pursuing new paths. She has launched her own floral business, Root + Petal, and was recently featured on KCAL News. Despite the heartbreak, Phipps said the team carries the spirit of Palisades Flowers and holds hope for its potential return.
“The future is still so uncertain, and any help forward means the world to us,” she wrote, encouraging further donations and shares.
Palisades Council Urges Caltrans to Delay I-405 Repaving Project
The fire displaced thousands of residents, many of whom rely on the I-405 for travel and are already facing heavy traffic due to ongoing Pacific Coast Highway lane closures
The Pacific Palisades Community Council has called on Caltrans to postpone a planned repaving project on Interstate 405 through the Sepulveda Pass until Pacific Coast Highway fully reopens and fire debris removal is complete, citing concerns over worsening traffic congestion, according to a letter sent to Caltrans on June 17. The council passed a motion on June 12 requesting the delay of the I-405 Pavement Rehabilitation Project. The fire displaced thousands of residents, many of whom rely on the I-405 for travel and are already facing heavy traffic due to ongoing Pacific Coast Highway lane closures and debris
removal efforts, expected to continue until at least late August.
“Many of these residents regularly travel on the I-405 through the Sepulveda Pass and have experienced the heavy traffic congestion, which many believe is due in large part to PCH closures and the ongoing debris removal in Pacific Palisades,” the letter, signed by council President Sue Kohl, stated. The council argued that starting the four-year repaving project now
could exacerbate traffic issues.
The council also requested that Los Angeles City Council members, including Traci Park, Bob Blumenfield, Katy Yaroslavsky, Nithya Raman, and Imelda Padilla, introduce a resolution to support the delay. The motion aligns with a recommendation from the Westside Regional Alliance of Councils, which includes 14 member councils. Six councils
have passed similar motions, and approval by two more would make it an official alliance position.
Caltrans has not yet responded to the request, which was addressed to Lauren Walike, a public information officer for Caltrans District 7. Copies of the letter were sent to State Sen. Ben Allen, Assemblymember Jacqui Irwin, and Councilmember Park.
New Agenda Coaching: Changing Lives in LA Students Work
Toward Applied Success with Executive Function
Coaching Services
The demands of daily routines and studies sometimes bear weight on students, creating cycles of frustration, stress, procrastination and withdrawal of effort.
With new in-office and remote coaching sessions offered in Los Angeles, New Agenda Coaching has created a workaround for students experiencing this weight that helps them strengthen executive function skills such as working memory, cognitive flexibility, inhibition, organization and task initiation.
Executive functioning refers to a set of cognitive skills and processes that help individuals manage and regulate their thoughts, behaviors and emotions to achieve specific goals or tasks.
Founded by Maria Del Corso and Amie Davies, New Agenda believes strong executive function skills lead to higher performance in addition to life-long benefits for children, teens and college students.
Since offering services in Los Angeles for ages nine and over, New Agenda said many school-aged clients who finished school in May have a changed perspective and shifted their trajectories to find success through coaching services.
“From a standpoint of our upper
elementary, middle and high school students who have been in a struggle zone, or experiencing some sort of multifaceted failure, they have finished out the school year in a completely different place, in terms of their positive perspective and outlook toward school and academic performance. They are really finding applicable success,” Del Corso said.
This summer, New Agenda recommends school-aged students start New Agenda’s coaching services ahead of the school year.
“Once school starts, you’re in that routine: work is piling up and you have to triage academics a little bit. Over the summer is a great time to strictly focus on executive function skills and figure out what areas we need to build and focus while you don’t have the pressure of academics,” Del Corso said.
New Agenda Coaching works with new clients at minimum once per week in one hour sessions, for no specific term length. Working one-on-one with coaches, clients learn skill building and strategies to achieve goals and combat concerns related to executive dysfunction.
Using a team approach, New Agenda works collaboratively with the client’s psychiatrists, therapists or counselors, to make sure everyone is on the same page.
“If a student is already working with a psychiatrist, we’re on board with them to help better the trajectory, and help the client reach goals,” Davies said.
Looking ahead, how does a parent know if their school-aged child has executive function issues, or any sort of processing disorder that impacts their studies? Del Corso said it’s often seen in the way the
student responds to requests that are meant to hold them accountable.
“We see a lot of students who deflect and say, school doesn’t matter. Homework doesn’t matter, or they don’t care, that school is boring, grades are declining. When we hear those things, it’s because they are struggling and they are not in their optimal state. Our coaches have strong knowledge in relationship building pieces that engage students to be more proactive in both academic and social settings,” Del Corso said.
New Agenda uses a relationship-based approach to support learning and practicing organizational strategies in academics,
career and lifestyle management, offering support for students, adults, seniors and the exceptional — people with intellectual disabilities, autism or down syndrome, people who are developmentally delayed or suffer the effects of a traumatic brain injury or other health impairment.
Coaching helps guide the development of life skills, coordinated with the use of customized strategies to aid focus, memory, accountability, motivation and planning, leading to greater independence.
To learn more about New Agenda and get started, visit NewAgendaCoaching. com.
Soprano Golda Zahra Returns to Broad Stage
For a One-Night-Only Musical Celebration
Hailed as “the rising star of the opera world” by The Hollywood Times, internationally acclaimed soprano Golda Zahra makes her much-anticipated return to Broad Stage in Santa Monica on Saturday, July 12, 2025, for a captivating one-nightonly concert. The evening promises an unforgettable blend of operatic mastery, Broadway brilliance and popular virtuoso pieces for soprano, featuring Zahra alongside the Dream Orchestra under the baton of celebrated conductor Maestro Daniel Suk.
Known for her radiant voice, emotional depth, and magnetic stage presence, Zahra has captivated audiences across continents, bringing fresh vitality to the grand tradition of classical music. This performance at Broad Stage marks a homecoming of sorts for Zahra, who grew up in Beverly Hills. The program will feature iconic arias from Puccini, Verdi, and Bellini, highlighting Zahra’s vocal agility and emotional range. Whether channeling the beauty of Puccini’s La bohème, the fire and
drama of Verdi’s La traviata, or the bel canto elegance of Bellini, Zahra’s interpretations promise to be both masterful and moving. Adding to the evening’s magic is a selection of timeless Broadway favorites, including beloved numbers from The Sound of Music, My Fair Lady, and Les Misérables This genre-crossing repertoire showcases Zahra’s remarkable versatility and her passion for connecting with audiences of all musical tastes. States Golda Zahra: “As a classical singer, my goal is to make opera accessible for everyone. Like Pavarotti and Friends who made people smile, warmed their hearts and united them in their love for music.”
Backing her is the acclaimed Dream Orchestra, an ensemble known for its lush sound and dynamic programming. Under the expert direction of Maestro Daniel Suk, the orchestra will also perform famous overtures and instrumental interludes, rounding out a program that blends elegance, passion and joy. Whether you are an opera aficionado or
simply someone who appreciates a soaring melody and a heartfelt performance, this concert promises an evening of inspiration and enchantment. Zahra’s rare combination of technical brilliance and heartfelt storytelling continues to earn her standing ovations—and July 12 at Broad Stage will be no exception.
Don’t miss your chance to witness a rising star at the height of her powers in one of Southern California’s most intimate and acoustically stunning venues. Golda in Concert with the Dream Orchestra conducted by Daniel Suk, July 12 at 7:30 PM at the Eli and Edythe Broad Stage 1310 11th Street, Santa Monica, CA. Tickets and more information are available at GoldaInConcert.com. Tickets include a champagne dessert reception hosted by Urth Caffe during intermission. To explore more about Golda Zahra’s artistry, biography, and upcoming appearances, visit her website at GoldaZahra.com.
A Season of Gratitude: After One Year in Business, Urban Jungle Continues Making its Mark
Over the last year, Urban Jungle, an indoor and tropical plants nursery, has continued its mission to cultivate a place where plant lovers gather to share stories, tips and their love for all things green.
This summer, founders Tracey and Mark Marriott, reflect on the impact of the Southern California wildfires in January and have entered a season of gratitude for their customers that have shared stories, tragedies, and have continued to rebuild their lives.
Urban Jungle sprouted from a deepseated love for horticulture shared by the founders. As they approach more than
a year in business, Tracey said they are thankful for what Urban Jungle has become — not only a sanctuary of green, but a place that helps people inspire their own environments, both indoor and outdoor, and nurture plant life.
“We’re holding space for people in a way of thankfulness and appreciation. As people are rebuilding their homes, their lives and regaining a sense of normalcy, we’re profoundly grateful to be here and able to inspire them with plants and horticulture — that for every pot or plant, a sense of normalcy will return,” Tracey said.
Urban Jungle’s community-centered oasis brings a lush slice of paradise to urban lifestyle, hosting a unique variety of indoor and outdoor plants, in addition to a collection of globally sourced pottery.
Most of the outdoor plants found at Urban Jungle started from the soil of the couple’s 14-acre farm in Los Angeles. An unrivaled selection from exotic rarities to familiar favorites, Urban Jungle’s collection is diverse and hand-picked for its health and vibrancy.
Ahead of its second year in business, Tracey said they are looking forward to growth, helping people and businesses flourish, by extension of caring for and nurturing plants in homes and workspaces. Plants are known to have positive effects
Welcome to Urban Jungle
Immerse yourself in a sanctuary where nature’s tranquility meets the vibrancy of city life. Urban Jungle is more than a plant store it’s a communitycentered oasis bringing a lush slice of paradise to your urban lifestyle. Here, we passionately believe in the power of plants to transform spaces and elevate well-being.
on wellbeing and stress reduction, while also benefiting the planet. Urban Jungle’s farm-to-nursery selection gives people many options.
From exotic rarities, to low-maintenance succulents, Urban Jungle is a green retreat for all to enjoy. Across the boulevard, Urban Jungle has a sister store called Certified Plant Growers that is celebrating one year of business in June.
Certified Plant Growers carries a selection of larger plants, wholesale items for landscaping, and bigger items for homes and gardens, such as privacy screens.
Certified Plant Growers is only open for wholesale business from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday through Friday.
“We’re so thankful for this community that has welcomed us with open arms,” Tracey said. “While you’re on the boulevard shopping or perusing, be sure to check out Certified Plant Growers for all of your lawn and landscape needs.”
Visit Urban Jungle at 3113 Lincoln Boulevard, Santa Monica, open Monday through Friday 11 to 6 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday from 10 to 6 p.m.
To learn more about Urban Jungle and follow its journey, follow @ urbanjungleplantsandpottery on Instagram.
Transform Your Life: The Free Virtual ONENESS GLOBAL SUMMIT Debuts July 18-20
Transform Your Life: The Free ONENESS GLOBAL SUMMIT Debuts July 2025
The ONENESS GLOBAL SUMMIT, a transformative three-day virtual event, is coming, July 18-20, 2025, offering participants worldwide a free opportunity to "dissolve stress and unlock abundance." This powerful online gathering, running daily from 3:00 to 6:00 PM PDT, promises to connect tens of thousands of seekers from around the globe on a shared journey toward inner peace and prosperity.
Breaking Free from Life's Limitations
The summit addresses one of modern society's most pressing challenges: the overwhelming burden of chronic stress and its devastating impact on relationships, financial well-being, and personal fulfillment. According to the event organizers, many people find themselves trapped in cycles of emotional wounds, isolation, and unrealized potential, missing out on the joy, health, and meaningful connections that make life truly abundant.
The three-day program is specifically designed to help participants break free from overwhelming stress, relationship struggles, and financial limitations that keep them from living their fullest lives. As the summit's enlightened guides teach, "To struggle is not your destiny."
A Journey Through Three Transformative Days
The summit follows a carefully
structured progression designed to address life's core challenges:
Day 1 (Friday, July 18) - Dissolve Your Stress focuses on teaching participants the science and art of entering calm in any life situation. Through practical techniques and guided experiences, attendees learn to master their stress response and cultivate inner peace.
Day 2 (Saturday, July 19) - Attract the Love You Desire introduces what organizers call "mystic technology" to cleanse negative patterns and open hearts to deep, authentic love. This session addresses relationship struggles and the pain of loneliness that affects millions.
Day 3 (Sunday, July 20) - Unlock the Wealth You Desire helps participants break patterns of limitation and lack while receiving The Oneness Blessing (Deeksha), a spiritual transmission central to the Oneness tradition.
Your Enlightened Guides
The summit is led by Sri Preethaji and Sri Krishnaji, co-founders of The Oneness Movement and authors of the national bestseller "The Four Sacred Secrets". These enlightened teachers have awakened millions worldwide to emotional wellbeing, mental wellness, loving relationships, inner peace, and spiritual enlightenment.
Based at Ekam, the world center for enlightenment, the couple has gained recognition globally for their peace efforts, transforming lives across all geographies, cultures, and age groups. Their philosophy centers on helping people transition from states of suffering to living in what they call a "beautiful state" of consciousness.
What Awaits Participants
The summit promises a powerful transformation experience, offering participants the opportunity to embrace a fulfilling, meaningful life filled with joy and connection. Attendees can expect to nurture beautiful relationships, cultivate profound belonging, and unlock powerful experiences of healing and selfunderstanding.
The program combines practical wisdom with spiritual insight, drawing from ancient traditions while incorporating modern
understanding of consciousness and human potential. Through guided meditations, teachings, and the transformative Oneness Blessing, participants embark on a journey from stress and limitation to peace, love, and abundance.
Registration for this free event is available at theonenessmovement.org, offering everyone the opportunity to experience what organizers describe as "the magic of Oneness" and discover their true potential beyond the constraints of stress and struggle.
Jim Athans For Governor
https://jimathansforcagovernor.com/
I cannot tell you the outrage I feel with this administration's position in the Ukraine war. The last gem that was offered was that Ukraine and Russia should just fight it out some more. As if the innocent human lives—men, women, and children—of a democratic, freedomloving people are not valuable beyond measure. I cannot believe that a sitting American president can take such a departure from American foreign policy, in which Democrats and Republicans alike have taken a decades-long stand against the spread of communism and tyranny in the world—and at great cost, too. We have always banded together. We have always stood arm in arm with other freedom-loving peoples of the world. The Democrats have been the Republicans on this issue. I will forever be grateful to former President Joe Biden for rising to the defense of the Ukrainian people.
Award-winning California realtor brings unique perspective to governors race. Palisades Schools Announce Reopening Plans For Fall
The plans address challenges posed by ongoing restoration and rebuilding efforts
Schools in the Palisades area have outlined their reopening plans for the upcoming academic year, addressing challenges posed by ongoing restoration and rebuilding efforts, school officials announced.
Palisades Charter High School will start the new school year at its temporary Pali South campus in Santa Monica to allow uninterrupted restoration work on its football field, gym, and aquatic center. The relocation is expected to last at least through Thanksgiving, with the possibility of extending through the end of the semester.
Palisades Elementary School will continue operating in Brentwood for the next few years while its original campus undergoes a complete rebuild. Students are slated to return once the new facility is completed.
Marquez Charter Elementary School, located near the Highlands where many homes remain intact, is preparing to reopen this fall. The Los Angeles Unified School District has deployed 25 portable classrooms to the campus to
Despite some real ideological differences, Joe Biden was right on this issue. I will go out on a limb and say $350 billion was a bargain for what was achieved with our support in the war in Ukraine. And while I am sad about losses on both sides of that conflict, it is significant that Russia's losses are so profound as to have disabled them from participation in other theaters around the world which they supported, such as the Middle East. With an estimated 1 million Russian casualties, it cannot be underestimated—the cost to Russia as a nation. The entire war machine of Russia, the entire infrastructure, has received a direct hit, including an estimated 40% of their military air capabilities, compromising their ability to wage war around the world.
Why does it matter to California?
I truly believe that California needs to take its place as one of the largest freemarket economies in the world—and to use its influence to affect change around the world.
A Tariff Trade-Off
Whether ‘tis nobler—taking charge
accommodate students.
St. Matthew’s Parish School is targeting a fall 2026 reopening but is actively working to expedite remediation and cleanup efforts. School officials expressed hope for an earlier opening if conditions allow, emphasizing their commitment to the safety and well-being of students and staff.
Calvary Christian School will resume classes on its Palisades campus for the 2025-2026 school year. School leadership acknowledged that the decision may impact families differently but described the return as a positive step forward for the community.
of our financial future, recreating a long-gone manufacturing base by a grassroots, bully-pulpit-led campaign in which Californians are encouraged to buy American, to buy California, and thereby take hold of their financial destiny—or to extract additional tariffs at great cost to already fragile relationships, in which negative consequences for the United States of America cannot be fully quantified.
China does not deserve for us to be that nice to them. China needs to be excluded from our economic consciousness. Buy American, buy California.
A chicken in every pot.
A toy manufactured in California under every Christmas tree.
I want to preserve California's autonomy.
I want to wield its influence.
Prosperity Zones: Creating an Economy One Neighborhood at a Time Prosperity zones can best be described as opportunity zones on steroids, in which the success of a government initiative does not rely on a few businesses in a depressed
community for revitalization of that community, but instead comes complete with a consortium of prefabricated business participants that will energize emerging and depressed neighborhoods.
These dynamic, cookie-cutter versions are designed to supply economic and social benefits across the board, which include jobs and a free flow of commerce for the benefit of many.
A prosperous community means a healthy community.
Email: Jimathans4cagovernor@gmail. com
Donate: https://www.gofundme.com/f/ support-james-athans-for-governor
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