By Ruth SOWBY

Pioneer Day is an official holiday celebrated on July 24 to mark the states originally settled by pioneers of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (Mormons). It commemorates the entry of Brigham Young and the first group of Mormon pioneers into the Salt Lake Valley. 

A local picnic was held in the La Canada Building field of the Church on Saturday, July 23. Members and guests were encouraged to bring a favorite food representing their family’s heritage. La Crescenta resident and church member Carmen Arambula, originally from Guatemala, prepared a family favorite, tostadas.

Donut-like aebleskivers, hot off the pan, represented the Danish roots of several families. They were gobbled up from the tasting table just as each batch was served.

        “Pioneer Day is a celebration of our ancestors’ trials and triumphs,” said local church leader Kirk Malmrose.