GLA Welcomes New Board, Salutes Civic Leaders

Man of the Year Al Garcilazo receives his award from GLA President Amy Navarrete Photos by Robin GOLDSWORTHY.

By Robin GOLDSWORTHY

The Glendale Latino Association hosted its 2011 Community Awards and Installation Luncheon last Thursday at the Embassy Suites in Glendale.

According to its website, the Association, founded in 1992, strives to promote the betterment of businesses and professions and to improve access to education by awarding yearly scholarships to local Latino students seeking higher education. Thursday’s luncheon raised awareness for the GLA scholarship fund, which awarded $18,000 to local Latino students in 2010 and included students attending Crescenta Valley and Clark Magnet high schools.

GLA President Amy Navarrete and Immediate Past President Mercy Velazquez welcomed guests. A vivacious speaker, Velazquez kept the mood light while reminding attendees of the importance of supporting the scholarship fund.

Among the many guests attending the GLA luncheon was Todd Hunt of CVHS Prom Plus and the Glendale Kiwanis., here with Mercy Velazquez.

L.A. Superior Court judge, the Honorable Gus Gomez and former Glendale City Councilman Larry Zarian installed the incoming board. The board reflects the diverse business community enjoyed by Glendale and includes Nancy Guillen of True Integrity Insurance Services, Arlene Villarin of Wells Fargo Bank, Mae Abou-Chakra of Mae’s Candles & Gifts Partylite, Carlos Carrillo of C&C Healthcare Solutions, Adriana Rebold of AR Creative Concepts, Martha Rivera, an instructor with Glendale Community College and outreach director for Glendale Adventist Medical Center, and Alicia Widmaier of Glendale Printing Center.

Following the installation, the GLA recognized outstanding civic leaders for their contributions to the community.

From the Glendale Educational Foundation, Susan Hunt was recognized as 2011 Woman of the Year. Al Garcilazo, senior chaplain of Glendale Adventist Medical Center, was awarded the 2011 Man of the Year. Helen McDonagh and Andrew Garsten of Massage Envy received 2011 Business of the Year.

To  learn more  about the GLA,visit

www.glendalelatinoassociation.com.