We are starting the new decade off with a bang, but not necessarily a good one. I think everyone in the community can count their blessings when you think of the hundreds of thousands of people that were hit by the earthquake in Haiti. We sometimes sit and think how the economic crunch is affecting us but then you look at those poor people in Haiti and you realize we do not have it so bad. We need to step up to the plate and donate time or money to those people that need it so desperately at this time. A good source is to go online to Google and do a search to see how you can help. The texting of Haiti on your cell phone has already created revenue of $21 million. Yes, I know that sounds like a lot, but it is only a drop in the bucket for this terrible disaster.
The next disaster is hitting right in our backyard: the Station Fire Flood. I know we all know of someone who is having problems with the drainage. We need to call these people and lend them some help. You can call your local fire station and/or police department and ask them how you can help your friends and neighbors. And to the people that need help: Call your friends and families and ask for help; don’t be shy. If you don’t ask for help we have no way of knowing you need it. For updates go to www.cvweekly.com to see weather videos and pictures.
Now on a brighter side: The Angeles National Golf Club is hosting the 2nd Annual Magic Night at the Agave Bar and Grill on Friday, Jan. 29 at 6 p.m. with awesome magic from magician Mike Barger of the Magic Castle. Cost is $35 per person and includes a three-course menu. Don’t miss out!
In addition, Berolina Bakery is offering a special offer of “A Bakers Dozen.” Buy 12 of the same baked goods and receive your 13th item of the same value free. Go online to berolinabakery@gmail.com and ask them to e-mail you a coupon. This offer expires Sunday, Jan. 31.
Due to weather, we have postponed our annual installation dinner at Angeles Golf Club to Thursday, Feb. 11. The good news is that we can extend accepting RSVPs until Feb. 8! Plan now to attend. I want to thank everyone who is contributing to our gift basket: New Moon, Montrose Bakery & Café, Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Schreiner’s Fine Sausages, Masis Bakery, El Charro, Frank’s Famous Kitchen & Bakery, Wine Cave and Angeles National Golf Club. Thanks to our two artists Carole Buss and Antonio Sorcini who are donating beautiful watercolors to our installation event.
Do not forget our first mixer of the new year on Wednesday, Feb. 3 at Spa Pura. Spa Pura is also celebrating its one year anniversary! They are located at 2270 Honolulu Ave., Suite A in Montrose. The fun and networking starts at 6 p.m. Hope to see you there!
The Chamber is open from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., Monday through Thursday and is closed on Friday and is located at 3516 N. Verdugo Road in Glendale. We can be reached by telephone at (818) 249-7171 or by e-mail mvcc@montrosechamber.org.
Join us on facebook: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Montrose-Verdugo-City-Chamber-Of-Commerce/103979694092.
Montrose is a unique shopping experience for the holidays and everyday…so please remember our motto: Shop Montrose!

Rose Gamble is the administrative assistant for the Montrose-Verdugo  City Chamber of  Commerce.