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Palisades Dolphin Strong Ignites Community Rebuild with Powerful Night of Music, Community and Hope at Amazing Music Store Benefit Concert
Santa Monica, CA –
On Sunday, July 20th, the Historic Woman’s Club of Santa Monica pulsed with energy, music and resilience during The Amazing Music Store Benefit Concert, presented by Palisades Dolphin Strong. Created to aid recovery from the devastating 2025 Palisades Fire, the event brought together celebrities, community leaders, musicians and 0ver 250 supporters for a night of inspiration and action.
The Amazing Music Store Benefit Concert was a night to remember—filled with soul-stirring music, heartfelt words and a united vision of hope. It was a living testament to the power of community: neighbors standing shoulder to shoulder, artists giving their hearts and survivors turning pain into purpose. The evening proved that even in the face of loss, love rises—and when a community comes together, there is nothing it cannot rebuild. Sam Laganà, honorary Sheriff of Pacific Palisades and voice of the LA Rams emceed the event and program that consisted of performances from the Palisades community and supporters, a Red Carpet and silent auction.
Event co-founders Larry Goldberg and Scott Berger shared moving words during red carpet interviews about the urgency of rebuilding. “This night is about standing together, rebuilding together, and reminding our neighbors that we are not leaving anyone behind,” said Goldberg. Scott Berger, a Pali High alumnus who grew up in the Palisades said, “When we saw the destruction, it broke my heart. Families lost everything. Businesses were gone. We knew we had to do something to help our community rebuild and heal.” Board member Nicole Espinosa echoed the sentiment, emphasizing that this was just the beginning of a broader mission to restore the lives and businesses impacted by the fire. Board member Shannon Vergun, a Pali High alum, shared that the community she grew up in was special because their bond went beyond cultural and economic lines, and it’s lasted for decades – in fact, they’re still going strong. Vergun said “every time we get together, it feels like a big reunion. Palisades Dolphin Strong lives up to its name!”
Honorees Patrick Hildebrand, Sr. and his son PJ Hildebrand, whose beloved Amazing Music Store was lost in the blaze, were celebrated for their 48 year-long impact on the community. The legacy continued on stage with a performance by Kalani Hildebrand, Patrick’s granddaughter and PJ’s daughter, together with Father PJ and grandfather, Patrick Sr.
John Savage and daughter Jenn Youngs delivered powerful messages. Jenn spoke of community strength and recovery programs, while John acknowledged that this gathering is about “Power to the People” and how together we can enact change. Actor Esai Morales gave a heartfelt message reinforcing how “essential it is for all of us to stand together and support each other during times of need.”
Singer and Actress Tricia Leigh Fisher and her husband Byron Thames who have their own band called Fisher and Thames also spoke on the red carpet, stating, “We’re so happy to help and support this community. We want to do everything we can.” The couple are committed to supporting ongoing efforts.
Councilwoman Traci Park shared updates on progress already made including the reopening of local parks, homes that are starting to be rebuilt, and the pending reopening of schools. She emphasized the strength of a community that is actively coming together to rebuild. |
