Snoopy House Grand Opening!

NECESSARY DISTRACTION
On an evening when the entire country still reels from the tragic events at Newtown, Connecticut earlier in the day and the flag at Costa Mesa City Hall hung limply at half staff in honor of those lost, even the intermittent drizzle couldn't dampen the spirits of those of us who attended the Grand Opening of the Snoopy House Friday night.  You can read Bradley Zint's account and see Scott Smeltzer's photos in the Daily Pilot, HERE

WEATHER DIDN'T DETER
The weather kept the crowd smaller than anticipated, but a few hundred residents and children braved the threat of rain to see the amazing displays created 46 years ago by the Jim Jordan and his family and shown for the second year at this City Hall location.

A VERY SPECIAL GUEST
City Chief Executive Tom Hatch was master of ceremonies and Mayor Jim Righeimer introduced Jill Schulz, daughter of Peanuts creator Charles M. Schulz, who was honored as Grand Marshall of this event.  Other politicians were in attendance - Mayor Pro Tem Steve Mensinger, councilwomen Wendy Leece and Sandy Genis and Assemblyman Allan Mansoor were on the stage and participated in the ceremony.

 SNOOPY!
Snoopy - on temporary assignment from Knott's Berry Farm - was on hand to enhance the festivities.  He thrilled everyone, whether young or old.

SANTA!
Santa Claus came riding in on his sleigh and brought joy to the kids lined up to sit on his lap.

SNOW!
One highlight was the snow that managed to fall several times during the evening.  Children and adults alike enjoyed that fluffy white stuff.

LIGHTS AND MUSIC!
City Hall was awash in a new light display that danced to the music on command.

OPEN THROUGH CHRISTMAS DAY
Thanks very much to Public Affairs Manager Dan Joyce and other members of The City staff plus the dozens of tireless volunteers who worked hard for the past couple weeks to prepare the display for its two week run.  It will be open from 5 - 9 p.m. through December 25th, with Santa Claus making an appearance each night through the 23rd.  On this day in particular this was a very welcome, very positive event.

 MERRY CHRISTMAS, EVERYONE!