When Meryl Strichartz opened the historic Simmons Island Beach House last summer, she was brimming with ideas for the local landmark.

Brian Treanor, Ph.D., professor of philosophy, celebrated Earth Day with a 12-hour reading of Henry David Thoreau's "Walden." ...

Plus, L.A. Times Festival of Books, Pizza City Fest, a Spooky Swap Meet, a Nine Inch Nails-themed dance party and more ...