Christmas trees focus of library fundraiser

The Library Tree Lane is a popular event at the Paseo Verde Library in Henderson that sells out every year. Last year's event raised $39,000 to buy materials for children and teens, with a goal of developing a lifelong love of reading.

The 12th annual event took place Dec. 4, chaired by Julie Buckley with assistance from attending members Jeanne Brady, Lois Brown, Trudy Casey, Bob Collins, Diane Collins, Alexandra Costa, Joan Dalusung, Andrea Frazier, Allen Grant, Donna Israelson, Sherry Kunzweiler, Joy Tweddle and Cindy Wang.

Various sections of the library offered bundles of books on interesting subjects for bid. Very popular was the silent auction for more than 233 elaborate baskets filled to the brim with many items according to their theme as well as gift certificates, admission tickets and guest passes.

Another section of the library offered cash and carry baskets based on first come, first serve. Festive wreaths and hostess baskets were available by purchasing an opportunity ticket.

Master of ceremonies was Allen Grant, and music was provided by DJ Axis.

Emery's La Barrista provided the extensive buffets of hors d'oeuvres and delicious made-to-order bananas Foster. The wine bar was compliments of Southern Wine and Spirits.

Seen enjoying the evening were Pam and Bruce Chapman, Jane and Robert Fielden, Laura and Lane Spina, with sons Kyle Spina, Trevor Spina and Asslynn Friederichs; Dorothy and Danny Lee, Eileen and Eric Horn, Maureen Kane, Pat Alpert, Margaret Louis, U.S. Rep. Dina Titus, Juliana McRae, Shelia McKay, Connie and Chuck Gerber, Laura and Rene Alcaraz, Sandra Volk, Miege Wilkerson, Nancy Bovill, and the library Executive Director Angela Thornton.

Five sponsored trees were decorated and voted on by the public and will be delivered to a charity by Capital North American:

The Henderson Chamber of Commerce 7-foot tree titled "Let it Snow," decorated by Donna Lee, DiAnne Dobson and D&D Designs, won the Most Elegant Award and was donated to In12Days.

Green Valley Rotary's tree, designed by Carla Hoop and titled "The Stockings Were Hung," won the Most Creative Award and was donated to Living Grace Homes.

The Chloe Ducharme tree, titled "Frosty & Olaf's Family Tree" and decorated by Jane Fielden and Laura Spina, won Best Use of Theme, and was donated to the Greenspun WomensCare Center.

The Charles Schwab tree, titled "Winter Wonderland" and designed by Lala Contreras, was given to St. Jude's Ranch.

The Findlay/Toyota purple tree, titled "Royalty" and designed by Ruth West, was purchased by Findlay/Toyota.