Our installation dinner at the Oakmont Country Club was a great success. Many of the speeches made by our award recipients were very sentimental and touching. Bill Dodson, winner of the Frank Roberts Award, was a friend of Frank Roberts said this award meant more to him than any other accolade he has ever received for taking care of the Vietnam War Memorial for the past 35 years. He was introduced by Paul Roberts, Frank Roberts’ son.

Jim Smiley, who won the Educator of the Year Award, said that this award reminded him of the power and responsibility he has a teacher. Lynn McGinnis, who won our Community Endearment Award, said he didn’t deserve this award because there were so many who had done so much more than he did, but was so grateful to be a part of such a great community.

As we prepare for the 100 year celebration of Montrose, it felt good to give awards to people and organizations who truly deserved them and who were so appreciative.

Please join us for our February centennial business mixer at Al’s Deli in Montrose that is celebrating 60 years in business! They have been a Montrose landmark since 1953. What a story this is.

Did you know the official name is Al’s Italian American Deli? Did you know that owner Greg Tomassian has owned Al’s Deli for the past 25 years? Did you know that Greg recently renovated and updated the deli and has a new logo that he will be unveiling? Did you know that they cater large Italian meals? I didn’t. I thought they only did sandwiches. Come by and see all that is new. The mixer will be on Wednesday, Feb. 6 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Al’s Deli is located at 2332 Honolulu Ave. Ciao!

Just in time for the centennial of Montrose, Robert Newcombe, one of the winners of our Community Enhancement Award for his efforts in preserving the history of Montrose, just released a new book called “Images of America: Montrose” that is now on sale. You can pick up at copy for $22 by stopping by the Montrose-Verdugo City Chamber of Commerce office at 3516 N. Verdugo Road in Glendale. You don’t want to miss out on getting this book. With our centennial celebration just around the corner, they will sell fast!

Upcoming Events

Centennial February business mixer on Wednesday, Feb. 6 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Al’s Deli, 2332 Honolulu Ave., Montrose. Celebrating 60 years in business.

Centennial celebration on Saturday and Sunday, Feb. 23-24 in the 2200, 2300 and 2400 blocks of Honolulu Avenue.

Glendale City Council candidates’ forum on Monday, March 11 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the Sparr Heights Community Center, 1613 Glencoe Way, Glendale, 91208.

Melinda Clarke

Executive Director

Montrose-Verdugo City Chamber of Commerce

3516 N. Verdugo Road

Glendale, CA 91208

818-249-7171