Finally – the Finest Has Arrived

Today is the day that many in the foothills community have waited for: the day that the winners of the Finest 2014 are revealed!

As in previous years, hundreds of ballots were cast reflecting the thousands of choices for everything from the Finest hair stylist to the Finest cardiologist made by you, the readers of the Crescenta Valley Weekly. Also as in years past, the Finest winners have been invited to an exclusive party at Deukmejian Wilderness Park, chosen as the Finest Sunset View. Looking over the selections made, there are some new faces that will be at the party along with some old friends who have held tightly onto their crown. I welcome them all and celebrate their status as the Finest 2014!

Not to overshadow the Finest winners, I should also mention that the party at Deukemejian Park is a chance to celebrate the anniversary of Crescenta Valley Weekly. It was Sept. 4, 2009 that the first issue of the CV Weekly arrived in just about every resident’s driveway in the Crescenta Valley. For those who are date-sensitive, you’ll know that Sept. 4, 2009 was actually a Friday – the roaring Station Fire and subsequent road closures prevented us from getting the inaugural issue delivered on Thursday.

When looking back, I actually shiver when remembering what a scary time that was for me. As most of you know, this paper is 100% self-funded, meaning that there are no “deep pockets” subsidizing this venture – it’s only Steve and me. The past five years have included incredible times of rejoicing and (to be honest) terrifying times of tears. But along with our Finest party guests, we have crested the worst of times and will celebrate together as we look toward much brighter days.

Over the past five years, there have been several attempts to garner the attention of our readers. Whether thin papers were tossed in your driveway or new websites launched promising local coverage, you remained true to the CV Weekly and I hope that you feel your trust was well placed. I am thankful that you’ve given me the privilege of providing truly local news – heck, I live here, too and know what’s important to my community.

So thank you. Enjoy this year’s Finest and please take the time to acquaint yourselves with the winners. They’ve worked hard for the designation.

  robin goldsworthy