by Elka Worner
Douglas firs, Noble pines and Christmas wreaths are flying off the Hermosa Beach Kiwanis Club Christmas tree lot, an annual tradition under the big red and white circus tent on the corner of Pier Avenue and PCH.
“This is our biggest fundraiser,” said Hermosa Beach Kiwanis Club President Glenn Menard. “It’s heartwarming that the community supports us and that hundreds of people benefit from the tree purchases.”
The lot, on the east lawn of the Community Center, also sells mistletoe and features photos with Santa.
This year’s jolly Saint Nick is Hermosa Beach Councilmember Rob Saemann, who built his own sleigh with former Kiwanis Club President Rick Koenig. Both are contractors.
Saemann said some kids are scared to approach him at first, but eventually warm up to him and leave saying “I love you, Santa.”
“It’s totally worth it when their faces light up,” he said. “It’s a golden moment.”
In its 38th year, the annual event raises money for 55 local charities, among them Richstone Family Center, Hermosa Beach Historical Society and Easter Seals. It also funds 40 academic scholarships for area students. All of the profits from the Christmas tree sales go back to the community, Menard said.
The trees, which cost between $50 and $200, are shipped weekly from Oregon and stored in water for freshness. Last year the club sold about 2,000 trees.
