By SARAH SHMERLING | Editor-in-Chief

A plan for the Topanga Lagoon Restoration Project has been approved by California State Parks with support of stakeholders, officials announced on September 12.

“The approved restoration plan, identified in the Topanga Lagoon Restoration Project Final Environmental Impact Report as Preferred Hybrid Alternative 3A, was developed and selected after extensive public, agency and land manager feedback,” read a statement. “The project will not only protect two critically endangered fish and associated habitats but will improve coastal access and visitor services, while building the resilience of beach areas.”

The plan includes restoration efforts of Topanga Lagoon and a portion of the Topanga Ranch Motel, which are located within Topanga State Park along Pacific Coast Highway, just north of Pacific Palisades, Topanga Beach, and the Caltrans right of way along PCH and Topanga Canyon Boulevard. The Resource Conservation Department of the Santa Monica Mountains is the project’s grant manager.

“The Topanga Lagoon Restoration Project is a multiagency cooperative effort that seeks to protect and restore the Topanga Lagoon ecosystem, one of the last coastal wetlands in Southern California,” the statement read. “The restoration seeks to preserve and expand the unique biological, cultural and recreational resources of Topanga Lagoon.”

The project aims to “enhance coastal access,” “expand recreation opportunities” and “develop buffers for projected sea level rise.” Design is anticipated to take place between 2024 and 2026, with construction in 2027 and beyond.

“Other key project elements include expansion, restoration, and enhancement of the existing lagoon and open space habitats; expansion of the existing Caltrans Pacific Coast Highway bridge to improve endangered fish passage and habitat; restoration of up to 15 units of the Topanga Ranch Motel; the development of a visitor’s hub within Topanga State Park with interpretive facilities and a trail system; relocation of Topanga Beach facilities further inland to protect from wave damage; and placement of native soils in the nearshore to nourish area beaches,” read the statement.

With the approval, the project is now entering the design phase. Additional public meetings will be scheduled in the future to collect input on the design, as well as uses of the visitor services features.

By SARAH SHMERLING | Editor-in-Chief

Kehillat Israel will host its annual Tikkun Olam Beach Clean Up Day on Saturday, September 21, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

“All ages are welcome,” read information from KI ahead of the fifth annual event. “Students can earn community service hours for their participation.”

The Jewish concept of “tikkun olam” is defined as acts of kindness performed in order to perfect or repair the world.

“Our yearly beach cleanup is an important and impactful tradition both for our natural surroundings and our community as a whole,” KI Tikkun Olam Trustee Amy Lehr said to the Palisadian-Post. “Kehillat Israel is committed to being environmental stewards and role models for our children and our community. This event reminds us that caring for our surroundings is caring for one another.”

The group will meet at Temescal Canyon Park, near 233 Temescal Canyon Road. KI members will be present, as well as balloons.

“Let’s come together, make a difference, and enjoy a day of community and care for our beautiful coastline,” the statement about the event concluded.

By SARAH SHMERLING | Editor-in-Chief

American Legion Ronald Reagan-Palisades Post 283 will host its second annual Spirit Hike on Saturday, September 21, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. with guest speaker Nate Boyer—a veteran, actor and producer.

“Join us for the second annual Spirit Hike, a community-building event that brings veterans and locals together for an inspiring morning on the Temescal Ridge Trail,” read the website for the event.

The hike will take place at Temescal Ridge Trail, which is a .8-mile trek to a viewpoint and back, for a total of 1.6 miles of hiking.

“This is more than just a hike—it’s an opportunity to network with others, get inspired and support our veterans,” the website continued. “The hike itself is a moderate 1.6 miles, including an 0.8-mile trek to a stunning viewpoint.”

Registration for the hike is $20, which will include a T-shirt, lunch, keynote speaker following the hike and networking opportunities.

Those who wish to hike are asked to meet at Simon Meadow at 9 a.m. Non-hikers can meet at American Legion Ronald Reagan-Palisades Post 283, 15247 La Cruz Drive, at 11 a.m.

Editor’s note: This story has been updated with information about where and when to meet for hikers and non-hikers.

By LILY TINOCO | Assistant Editor

Ciela will host a three-day Autumn Open House from September 19 to September 21, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. each day.

Those who participate will be able to explore the facility’s residences, meet members of the team, have complimentary food and drinks, and participate in wellness classes, according to the Ciela website.

Ciela is described as a “pioneering community” in the Highlands dedicated to holistic well-being and luxury. Founded by President Rony Shram, Ciela represents a “seven-year labor of love, aimed at revolutionizing the way seniors experience their golden years.”

“With a goal to go beyond the traditional concept of senior facilities, Ciela is described as a modern resort-like community,” according to the facility.

Ciela offers independent living, assisted living and memory care. Individuals can choose from a studio, or one- or two-bedroom apartment. Included in the monthly rent is a variety of services, including all food and beverage, housekeeping and laundry services, transportation, and more.

“We believe in providing seniors with an environment that fosters joy and rejuvenation as they age,” Shram said in a statement. “Our location overlooks the beautiful Santa Monica mountains from every corner of the property, providing a connection to nature that’s vital for residents’ well-being.”

By SARAH SHMERLING | Editor-in-Chief

Palisades Branch Library Cybernaut Jake Folsom will lead a Libby and Online Library Catalog Workshop on Thursday, September 26, from 3 to 4 p.m.

“Learn how to use and navigate the Libby app and the online catalog from a Cybernaut,” read the Los Angeles Public Library website.

Libby is an “innovative in-browser and mobile app” that allows library card holders to borrow e-books, magazines, streaming services and audiobooks.

Cybernauts are described on the Los Angeles Public Library website as “trained computer aides that offer technology assistance, computer support and mobile device support.”

“In working as a Cybernaut, Jake’s aim is to serve the vibrant community of Pacific Palisades while he builds his experience as a library professional in preparation for his graduate-level studies in library and information science,” read a statement from Pacific Palisades Library Association.

Folsom, a graduate of NYU Tisch with a double major in film/TV and journalism, grew up in Minneapolis.

“He has a passion for helping people and a love of technology,” PPLA wrote, “which makes him well equipped to help address your technology questions.”

Those who wish to attend are invited to RSVP at the library in person or by emailing jake.folsom@lapl.org. ADA accommodations can be requested at least 72 hours ahead of the event by calling 213-228-7430.

The event will take place at Palisades Branch Library, located at 861 Alma Real Drive in Pacific Palisades.