By Jozette KARAGUOZIAN

a Crescenta Library held its first Christmas tree lighting ceremony on Friday night. About 1,200 people (some with pets) gathered at the library over the course of the two-hour event that was hosted by Supervisor Michael Antonovich, the Crescenta Valley Town Council and the Friends of La Crescenta Library.

The festivities began at 5:30 p.m. in the library community room where Elizabeth Luce of Luce Puppet Company hosted a holiday-themed show titled “Wacky Winter Adventure.”  Playing to a packed room, Luce not only put on a puppet show that grabbed the attention of everyone, but also showed the backstage workings of her show.

“She really is the best puppeteer,” said Leena Waller, a La Crescenta Library children’s librarian.

The lobby of the library was filled with people in line for hot cocoa, and children swarmed tables set up with volunteers assisting in arts and crafts.

Around 6:30 p.m. the tree lighting ceremony began with the presentation of colors. Among the evening’s speakers were librarian Marta Wiggins and CVTC President Robbyn Battles, who thanked the community for providing the ornaments on the tree. She also acknowledged the bravery of fellow councilmember Harry Leon who was responsible for topping the tree with its star ornament. Superintendent Antonovich also took the mic to welcome the crowd to the inaugural event.

“This is really a pre-Montrose Parade party,” he said. “To our Jewish friends, Happy Hanukkah. To our Christian friends, Merry Christmas, and to everyone a Happy New Year.”

There was live entertainment including the Verdugo Hills Ward Choir from LDS Church, the Valley View Elementary School Talon singers and students with the Rosemont Middle School advanced strings. Just after 7 p.m., a community countdown was held for the lighting of the La Crescenta Christmas tree, a majestic sycamore located in the front courtyard.

Following the tree lighting and community sing of “O Christmas Tree,” Supervisor Antonovich headed to the library community room for the reading of a holiday story.

The tree will continue to be lit every night through early January. The library is located at 2809 Foothill Blvd.

  Jozette KARAGUOZIAN