The Montrose-Verdugo City Chamber of Commerce hosted its annual installation and awards dinner on Jan. 23 at the Oakmont Country Club. While nearly 130 people filled the room to witness the installation of the board of directors, most were mainly on hand to congratulate this year’s honorees who were recognized in a number of areas.

Mike and Pete Smith of Bob Smith Toyota were recognized as Business of the Year. The dealership on Foothill Boulevard is celebrating its 20th anniversary in the foothills.

Glendale Healthy Kids, an organization that caters to the health needs of children, was awarded Organization of the Year.

For his ongoing work in the community, Glendale Police officer Joe Allen was presented with the Volunteer of the Year award.

The founder of Montrose Travel Joe McClure, and family members Andi McClure-Myzsa and Julie McClure, were awarded Business Person of the Year.

Dilbeck Realty was awarded the newly christened Chris Waldheim Oktoberfest Volunteer of the Year award. Oktoberfest, held the first Saturday in October, is the largest fundraiser for the chamber.

Educator of the Year was given to Dominique Evans-Bye of Clark Magnet High School. Bye’s contributions to the school’s science program has helped it win the Lexus Eco Challenge for the last several years.

Casa Cordoba Café and Giftware, situated in the historic Zwick’s Plaza on Honolulu Avenue in Montrose, was recognized with the Beautification Award.

The renovation of the recently acquired Verdugo Hills Hospital by USC earned the USC Verdugo Hills Hospital the Community Enhancement Award.

The Glendale Education Foundation, which is preparing for its annual Dancing With Diamonds gala on Friday night, Feb. 7, was presented with the Community Endearment Award.

In the area of safety, Glendale Police Officer Abe Chung was awarded with Peace Officer of the Year. Andrew Jimenez was recognized for Firefighter of the Year and officers from the CHP and deputies from the L.A. Sheriff’s Dept. were recognized for their efforts during a Halloween morning pursuit.

A special recognition was given to Chris Waldheim and John Ehret. Waldheim was awarded for his numerous donations of time and money to the many businesses and non-profits in the area. Ehret was lauded for his role in the founding of the Crescenta Valley Sheriff’s Support Group.

The coveted Frank Roberts Award, named after businessman Frank Roberts, was awarded to Henry Baeza, longtime owner of Montrose Bakery. Baeza was recognized for the many years of supporting the community, especially with donations of baked products.

By Robin GOLDSWORTHY

  robin goldsworthy