CTLA Board

Scott Wardlaw, President

Derek Nowak, 1st VP, Logistics

Lawrence Glover, 2nd VP, Membership
I have been volunteering on the Lane for many years. We began by screwing in a few bulbs, enjoyed talking with the other volunteers, and I eventually became a CTLA Board member.

Joshua Tomoyasu, 3rd VP, Communications

Steve Rose, Treasurer

Steven McCall, Secretary
I am a native Angelino and a resident of Altadena since 1987, and my wife and I have lived one block from Christmas Tree Lane that entire time. After I retired in 2013, I started looking for ways to be more involved in my community. We have always enjoyed and supported Christmas Tree Lane, so I decided to start volunteering with putting-up and taking-down the lights.

From that volunteering experience, I was impressed with the dedication and hard work of both the long-time and occasional volunteers who make the annual lighting of Christmas Tree Lane and the kick-off Lighting Ceremony and Winter Festival, possible.

A few years ago, at the invitation of Tony Ward, who was at the time a CTLA Board member and continues to be a dedicated volunteer, I started attending the monthly Board meetings of CTLA as an invited guest. As a result of that
involvement, I was elected to the Board of Directors in October 2021. Most recently, in March 2022, I was elected to the position of Secretary of the Board.

I’m delighted to be a part of keeping this 100-plus year-old tradition alive in Altadena for the community and all to enjoy.

Mana Rahbari, Director
I moved to beautiful Altadena in 2017 with my husband. We immediately fell in love with the area, mountains, local restaurants and bars, friendly neighbors, and so much more! I was eager to give back to my new little town. I joined CTLA monthly meetings, soon after we moved to the area to see if there is anything I can help with. CTLA is a group of lovely people, with a passion to bring joy and laughter to the community during Holiday seasons. I am honored to be a part of the committee and it has been an absolute pleasure to get to know the members and learn from them.

Len Schaustal, Director
I lived in Altadena in the mid 1990’s, spending much of my time building my career and business. When I moved to a neighboring city – it hit me… I BELONGED in Altadena. It is my home – The people, the diversity, the trees and mountains, and the small town feel all in a greater metropolitan area of many millions. Happy to be “home”, I am excited to be part of this amazing group of volunteers that give so much to the community around them with nothing expected in return. From working on the Lane, to helping to raise awareness and funds for much needed care and maintenance of this historic treasure, I am again, home, and honored to be part of this organization.

Janet Smith, Director

Lucinda Haagenson, Director
I’m a long-time resident of Altadena, living here since 1983 and raising six children in this safe, small town. My volunteer experience includes Pasadena Playhouse, Pasadena Heritage, and Pasadena Showcase House, successfully leading two Girl Scout troops from elementary school through high school graduation including three Gold Award recipients, then later serving as Chairperson of Girl Scout Troop Leaders, Chairperson for Music Boosters, Badge Counselor for Boy Scouts, and Line Guard for AYSO. After my children were grown, I resumed my career as a Property Manager at the Biltmore Hotel in Los Angeles, managing two high rise office buildings and retiring in 2017. I am currently engaged as a Project Manager for a tech start-up company and I continue to volunteer.

I started volunteering with Christmas Tree Lane in 2006, managing the boutique. In 2011, I began coordinating the Christmas Tree Lane Winter Festival. The Winter Festival has increased in size each year, growing from 18 retailers in 2011 to 30 retailers today.

I’ve learned that if you need help on a project, ask the busiest person that you know.

Mary Landau, Director
Altadena has been my home for more than 40 years. I love this quiet community with its fascinating people, great neighbors and stately deodars. The homes are so varied and lovely. What a wonderful place to have raised my children!
I joined the Christmas Tree Lane Association about 5 years ago when my good friend, fellow Girl Scout Leader, and former Altadena Babysitting Co-op member asked if I would like to help her make ornaments out of spent light bulbs that once lit Christmas Tree Lane. I had always loved how festive and special the lane had been in the years that I have lived here, so it was with pleasure that I joined. I wanted to know how the lights were put on the trees, and if I could give back just a bit of the joy that it had brought me year after year. While serving on the board I have met some amazing people, and enjoy working with these community members who give so much of their time to ensure that the lane will continue to be enjoyed by the thousands who make it part of their yearly Christmas Tradition.

Maybe you would like to join with us and find out how things get done. We would love to meet you!

Steve Elliot, Director
I enjoy the friendships I have made in my 10+ years of participating in CTLA. The fun of working in the fresh outdoors amongst the beautiful trees and the camaraderie that results from accomplishing a worthwhile and environmentally beneficial community effort, all make CTLA an enjoyable weekend and year-long activity.

Rob Caves, Director

Sean Meek, Director

Daniel Landau, Technical Specialist