Amazing People

It seems that almost every day we are introduced to something new –technology, music, people. But sometimes it’s good to reflect on those things and people who helped bring us to where we are today. For example, one morning this week I was driving to work when Frank Sinatra’s melody, “New York, New York” came on the radio.

“Start spreading the news…” Frank implored. And though I am in no way an ardent Sinatra fan, I grew up listening to Ol’ Blue Eyes – he was one of my mom’s favorites. His influence ran deep – he is noted as having inspired Bruce Springsteen among others. But I don’t think that Sinatra’s main goal in life was to inspire others. I think it was all about the music.

I attended the CV Chamber of Commerce installation luncheon on Thursday afternoon that included the distribution of money from the Mary Pinola & CV Chamber Education Fund. Since the early ’90s when Mary Pinola started her fund, she has distributed thousands and thousands of dollars to local nonprofit organizations. From the beginning when she first gave away $175 to this year when she distributed more than $23,000, it was her goal to help those organizations that help others. What an inspiration she is. And I’m sure that she didn’t create the fund for the accolades (which are well deserved) but to lend a hand to those who, in turn, are helping others.

Another example of those who weren’t looking for the spotlight (but it found them) are those honorees of tonight’s Montrose-Verdugo City Chamber of Commerce installation dinner and recognition banquet. This is when the chamber highlights those in our community who have really made a difference, who have gone above and beyond thereby making the Crescenta Valley the place we’re so happy to call home.

Members of law enforcement and the fire department will be recognized as will business owners and others who have made a positive impact on our community. As a personal shout out, I am proud to share that my husband Steve will be honored this evening as volunteer of the year.

Almost as long as I have known him, Steve has been an active volunteer. In the early days of our marriage, it was with the American Red Cross, then as an emergency medical technician reserve with Pasadena, a reserve officer with the police department, a member of arson watch, a volunteer on patrol and now he serves with other volunteers on the Montrose Search and Rescue team. He has also been elected to the CV Town Council, served on the boards of CV Alliance, Prom Plus, CV Fireworks and many more. And, as I am sure is the case with tonight’s other honorees, he didn’t do it for the “glory” but because he just wants to lend a hand.

I thank those who look beyond themselves to the betterment of their community and congratulate the endowment fund recipients and tonight’s honorees – one in particular.

  robin goldsworthy