La Crescenta Juniors have Breakfast with Santa

The holiday spirit arrived early at the La Crescenta Woman’s Club, ushered in with their family-friendly fundraiser Breakfast with Santa on Dec. 1.

The Clubhouse was alive with boisterous children, elves, and, of course, Mr. and Mrs. Claus. The event, organized by the La Crescenta Woman’s Club Juniors, was an occasion for the entire family. A continental breakfast with juice and coffee was served, prepared by Ruth Warner and Debbie Taylor, while the Rosemont Middle School Ensemble played holiday music under the direction of music teacher Rod Yonkers.

“We’re tying to make this an annual event,” said Dawna Berger, chair of conservation and organizer of the event. Tickets were $10 per person. “The money raised stays within the community,” added Berger. “It is divided between the six departments of the club, and is then used to support charities and programs in the community.”

At 9:30 a.m., the sound of jingling bells and reindeer hooves announced the arrival of Santa Claus. Each child had the opportunity to take a picture with Santa and ask him for spectacular Christmas presents.

“I asked Santa for everything Nascar,” said Andrew Ortiz gleefully. “I’m not going to sleep for twenty-five days waiting for him.”

A special guest at the event was Vernise Elaine Pelzel, a children’s author and award-winning educator. Dressed as Mrs. Claus, she told stories to the children, using her felt-board.

Toward the end of the event, there was an opportunity drawing. Some of the many donated items included a $100 beauty salon gift certificate and a turquoise necklace. “I won a $30 gift certificate to New Moon,” said Beverly Hyler. “The gifts were absolutely wonderful.”

Those who attended the event went home with poinsettias and stuffed animals, and a healthy dose of holiday spirit.