Thanks to everyone who gathered on Saturday September 21st to celebrate our 75th Anniversary under strings of lights in the auditorium. The Laurel Canyon Band started the evening with their repertoire of Southern California Classic Rock, as guests enjoyed passed hors d’ouevres, charcuterie trays and desserts from Stems Catering. The open bar featured wine, beer, sodas and signature cocktails crafted by professional bartenders from Party Host Helpers. On the special menu were “The Jean Taylor” (a blueberry gin martini in honor of our Ceramic Studio founder); “The Smitty” (an old-fashioned celebrating our first Executive Director Gilbert “Smitty” Smith); and “The Youth House” Paloma, giving a nod to our original name. High-top cocktail tables and bar stools allowed for mingling and each sponsor had their logo featured in the colorful centerpieces.

Executive Director Betsy Ferguson gave the opening welcome with some fun facts about the Center’s history and Board Member Dan Sernett spoke about the future of the Community Center as everyone raised a toast. Following another set from the band and a dancing, awards were given out honoring those who have been giving their talent, passion, and dedication to our mission for multiple decades. We celebrated Coach Andy Chidester’s 20^th anniversary, Preschool Director Danielle Caputo’s 28th anniversary and Coach Joe Steckermeier’s 40th anniversary with the Community Center. Also acknowledged were Ceramic Instructors Anette Shafrazian and Miriam Balcazar who both celebrated earlier this year for their 20 years at CCLCF.

A delegation from the Kiwanis Club of La Cañada La Crescenta AM gave a special presentation and presented Betsy with a check for $7500 to support the Community Center. Door prizes were given including Huntington Gardens passes, Pasadena Playhouse tickets and passes to the Magic Castle.

Dancing and conversations continued, and the evening wrapped shortly after 9 pm with a touching video looking back on the last eight decades of the Center.

The over 100 guests included current and past staff members, board members and participants as well as members of other non-profit organizations and businesses. Dignitaries in attendance included LCF Mayor Mike Davitt, City Council Members Keith Eich and Jeannie Hobson, LCF Chamber President Pat Anderson, Captain Ron Hanlein from the CV Sheriff’s Station, School board member Caroline Anderson, past executive directors Aaron Solomon and Deb Jordan and past board members Karen Knudsen, Carl Christensen, Woody Walker, and Kelly Armaly.

Thank you to all our Celebration Sponsors who made the night possible.