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SOUTH EL MONTE BR ING ING NEWS, PE OPLE AN D E VE N T S T O THE CITY OF S O U T H E L MO N T E
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SOUTH EL MONTE BRINGS BACK HOLIDAY CELEBRATIONS AFTER HIATUS DUE TO PANDEMIC After a hiatus from community holiday events due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the City of South El Monte was able to bring back some of our community’s favorite holiday celebrations while maintaining State and LA County health safety guidelines.
On the evening of December 2nd, hundreds of community members cheerfully gathered in front of City Hall with City Officials and friends to kick off the holiday season in South El Monte with the tree lighting ceremony. Joined by special guest, Santa Claus, our community enjoyed live entertainment from our local schools and organizations, including toddlers from Akitoi Learning Center, the Dean L. Shively Middle School Band and Dance Team, Vibe Cheer and Dance, and the South El Monte High School Band. The lighting of the tree was followed by holiday activities, pictures with Santa, and warm holiday treats.
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“We are so grateful to be able to come together in-person to celebrate some of our most joyous community traditions,” said one City Official. “These special events symbolize hope, joy, and a sense that better days are ahead of us during this ongoing health pandemic.”
Another event that makes the season merrier for hundreds of children from South El Monte is the City’s Christmas Wish Toy Giveaway. Due to the pandemic, the 2020 event was held as a drive-thru, however this year it returned as an in-person celebration where the Community Center was transformed into the town of Whoville from the classic Dr. Seuss tale “The Grinch Who Stole Christmas”. The Grinch was nowhere near South El Monte, instead Santa Claus was in town! Over 400 children and their families were treated to a delicious lunch, goodies, fun-filled activities and a toy for each child. The special occasion was made possible through donations from various South El Monte businesses and organizations with the goal to provide local children up to the age of 13 with a gift and a memorable holiday experience. On December 22nd, over 130 of our beloved seniors were treated to a drive-thru celebration where they were greeted by City Officials, staff and Santa Claus. Participants arrived in their decorated vehicles, dressed in holiday attire, and were given a warm cooked meal, holiday goodies and a special gift. The Senior Center parking lot was decorated with holiday cheer, and representatives from Athens Trash Co. displayed new barrels that have been delivered to homes in preparation for the new SB1383 trash mandated services. The City of South El Monte concluded the festive season with the annual Holiday Home Decorating contest and Santa’s Drive-Thru Visit on the nights of December 20th, 21st and 22nd. Residents showcased their holiday spirit by decking out their homes with lights, inflatables, and other festive decorations, and Santa spread cheer throughout neighborhood streets to the delight of both children and adults.
On behalf of the City of South El Monte officials and staff, we have enjoyed hosting these festive events and programs for our community members. We wish our South El Monte community a happy, healthy, safe, and prosperous 2022!
