Are you bored? Wondering what to do sometimes? Get involved in your community. If you have kids, there is one thing I know you have heard them say before, and that is: “I’m bored.” In this fast-paced culture, kids are constantly looking for ways to be entertained. I believe we need to teach not only our kids but ourselves to slow down, look beyond our immediate gratification and see how we can contribute to the world around us. That is why I was so grateful to be at Glendale PD Police Chief, Ron DePompa’s State of the City meeting on Wednesday, Jan. 19.

I guess I thought more people would be there or at least a few more people from the Crescenta Valley, but there were not. It was a very enlightening meeting and I learned a lot about our city and what a safe community it really is. Of course, we know that it is due to our own Glendale PD officers Matt Zakarian and Joe Allen and the Briggs sheriffs station team headed by Captain Silversparre. We heard about the crime rate reduction, the staffing changes and the improved ways they will be serving our area in 2011.

However the thing that struck me the most was how much Chief DePompa emphasized community involvement. He said it was critical to not only reducing crime in our city, but to also maintain the quality of life. With all the staffing cuts and the reduced budgets in our city, Chief DePompa said that community involvement has helped the Police Department overcome the deficits. That is exciting to hear!

The Montrose-Verdugo City Chamber of Commerce wants to encourage you to volunteer and get involved in the community. There are many volunteer opportunities here at the Chamber and all around the Crescenta Valley. Get involved in a community watch group in your neighborhood, have Coffee with the COPPS, volunteer at a senior citizens home or help your local schools. Volunteer in an area that you would enjoy helping and want to see improved. It’s up to you!

We invite you to join our monthly mixers. Held the first Wednesday of the month, they are a great way to network, meet other business owners and promote your local business. There is always food, fun and great raffle prizes. We hope to see you there.

Melinda Clarke,

Executive Director

www.montrosechamber.org

  montrose chamber