A Century of Gratitude…

And in its 100^th year, on Wednesday, Oct. 18, 2023 the Montrose-Verdugo City Chamber of Commerce celebrated its Centennial + Community Awards Dinner at the La Cañada Country Club. This monumental event brought together local business leaders, volunteers and community members to commemorate a century of dedication to the growth and prosperity of the Montrose and Verdugo City areas.

The evening was nothing short of spectacular, featuring not only awards and recognition but also live music from the CVHS jazz combo band and a captivating display of historical artifacts from the Chamber. Attendees enjoyed a delightful blend of nostalgia, appreciation and anticipation of what the future holds for the Chamber and the community.

The highlight of the evening was the presentation of awards to so many amazing organizations and volunteers. We are thrilled to congratulate the following outstanding individuals and organizations who received awards in recognition of their exceptional contributions to our community:

• Business of the Year: S.I.G. Property Management
• Community Organization of the Year: YMCA of the Foothills
• Frank Roberts Award: Mike Perry
• Educator of the Year: Nick Doom of Clark Magnet HS
• Chris Waldheim’s Oktoberfest Volunteer of the Year: Berkshire Hathaway Home Services
• Volunteer of the Year: Steve Pierce
• Beautification Award: Gus and Andy’s
• President’s Award: Kimberly Fraisse
• Special Recognition: Glendale Area Schools Credit Union
• Centennial Award: Chris Waldheim of J’s Maintenance/Maids

Volunteers are the backbone of any thriving community and the Chamber of Commerce was keen to recognize their contributions. The event gave a heartfelt salute to volunteers who have dedicated their time, energy and skills to make Montrose-Verdugo City a better place for all. We have never felt more united as a community and as an organization representing this amazing community.

As we reflect on the remarkable evening of our centennial celebration, we express our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who joined us and contributed to the success of this momentous occasion. Your presence and support made our journey to 100 years possible, and we are deeply thankful for your unwavering commitment to our community and its prosperity.

A very special thank you goes out to our Centennial Sponsor (and Centennial Award winner!) Js Maintenance/Maid Services. Their generous support played a pivotal role in making the celebration a reality, and the Chamber is truly grateful for their dedication to our mission.

Meet the newest business member of the MVCC:

Divina Cucina – Cal-Italian fusion restaurant with delicious pasta and pizza made from scratch plus salads and desserts. It offers a broad collection of Italian, French and Californian wine. It has been serving our community since 1996. https://www.divina-cucina.com

PFARIA – The non-profit division and charitable foundation of PFAR. PFARLA focuses on addressing community issues and supporting human service-based non-profits specializing in preventing and remediating community issues within the Pasadena-Foothills community. https://pfar.org/give/

Sparr Heights Assisted Living and Memory Care – Relationships often define who we are –relationships with family, between residents, among friends and with staff. It’s quality moments spent with others that truly celebrate a life well-lived with great activities, the best of care, beautiful surroundings and delicious meals. https://sinceriseniorliving.com/sparr-heights-estates/

Seniors Helping Seniors – In-home care services brighten the lives of seniors who can benefit from a helping hand and a friendly smile. Their caregivers, who are seniors themselves, make lives easier by providing compassionate care in the comfort of a senior’s own home. https://shspasadena.com

Broker Associate, Re/Max Tri-City Realty, McNevin Real Estate, LLC – With more than 80 sold listings and homes purchased or leased totaling more than $70 million of sales volume since 2016, Edward “Skip” McNevin is the go-to realtor for first time buyers, seasoned and investment buyers, or home owners looking to sell or lease. https://www.mcnevinrealestate.com/#about-us

MVCC and Member Updates/Upcoming Events:

On Thursday, Nov. 2 at 12:30 p.m. – Glendale Area Schools Credit Union new branch grand opening. Take part in the celebration of the grand opening of the GASCU’s new branch in Glendale (223 N. Jackson St.)! Free for all.

On Sunday, Dec. 3 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. – Free shredding event at the Crescenta Cañada YMCA upper parking lot. Once again, the MVCC has partnered with Nicole Schlueter and Dave Robles from Think Real Estate and the YMCA of the Foothills to host a free shredding event in the Crescenta Canada YMCA upper parking lot. There will be a mobile shredding truck that will accept any paper (no plastic, X-rays or binders please) and will shred while you watch to ensure security. To reserve a spot, text or call Nicole Schuleter at (760) 420-5181 or email her at thinknicoles@gmail.com.

Special Thank You to the many community members and businesses who have supported the MVCC over the past 100 years!

Remember to shop locally!

Sara Shahmoradian Darby
MVCC Secretary