Stunned At What She Read
My letter is in regards to the startling information given by Suzy Jacobs, executive director of CV Alliance in [the Jan. 30] edition of the CV Weekly.

I was first offended in reading that 85% of NFL players participated in [the] Super Bowl with a concussion. Then I had to read twice over the [statement] made by NFL Commissioner R. Goodell [that he] is considering allowing players with head injuries to use medical marijuana if it’s [proven] to help.

I hope and pray that the commissioner uses his experience [and] knowledge and [puts the] well being of his players first and foremost when making his decision.

I would not have allowed my sons, deceased or surviving, to use this or any other drug to be used for any reason.

Aileen Bristow
La Crescenta


The Y: A Cause Worth Investing In
The Y recently commissioned a consumer survey to measure how Americans view quality of life in their communities nationwide. The survey was based on several factors, such as community member involvement and the quality of a community’s services, ranging from education to public safety. Interestingly, the survey revealed a 30% gap between what people say is most important in creating a strong community and how satisfied they are with their own communities in those areas. For example, Americans report that a safe environment for children and assistance for struggling community members (job training, food pantry, etc.) were important for building a strong community; however, they rate their own community low in these same areas.

When asked for the solution to closing this gap, survey respondents held themselves accountable. Survey respondents feel it’s important – now more than ever – to contribute their time and money to community causes (an 8% and 10.5% increase from 2012). They expect more from their community – and each other.

I agree, and that’s why I believe the Y is a cause worth investing in. The Y needs help from the community to continue its vital work. The YMCA of the Foothills is launching its annual campaign to ensure that everyone in the Foothills has the opportunity to learn, grow and thrive.

Throughout the Foothills, countless people know the YMCA of the Foothills. But there’s so much more to our Y than one might think. Every day, the Y works across the Foothills to support the people and neighborhoods that need it most by addressing community issues. For example, through our Safe Swim Initiative we will teach critical water safety and swimming skills to all our kids so that they develop a sense of accomplishment and increase self-confidence and security while near the water.

Your financial gift will help to close gaps in our community and to strengthen the Foothills by helping individuals and families through programs and services that support youth development, healthy living and social responsibility.

Visit www.ymcafoothills.org to learn how you can support the Y’s cause.

Kristin McQueen
Community Support Campaign Chair

2013 Spark of Love Campaign
The generosity of the Glendale community members during the 2013 Spark of Love Campaign was overwhelming. The Glendale Fire Dept. was able to provide 2,263 underserved children in the community with toys and sporting equipment this holiday season.

A special thank you to the following donors for their support of the Glendale Fire Department Spark of Love Campaign: 4Over Printing, Los Angeles Federal Credit Union, USC Verdugo Hills Hospital, Armenian Cultural Society, DreamWorks, 5 Star Cinema, Armenian Sister’s Academy and Glendale Federal Credit Union.

The Glendale Fire Dept. would like to thank all of you – the individuals, families and businesses who supported the 2013 Spark of Love Campaign and eagerly look forward to the 2014 campaign.

Brandy Villanueva, Emergency Services Coordinator
Glendale Fire Department

Thank You for the Love
I’m writing to thank La Crescenta residents for their generosity in helping thousands of suffering children worldwide this Christmas. Through their efforts, we were able to collect more than 1,760 shoeboxes filled with toys, school supplies and hygiene items for Operation Christmas Child, the world’s largest Christmas project of its kind. These simple gift-filled shoeboxes communicate to needy children that they are loved and not forgotten.

Although drop-off locations in La Crescenta are closed until November 2014, shoebox gifts can be packed any time. Gifts are received year-round at Samaritan’s Purse (801 Bamboo Road, Boone, N.C., 28607) or using the project’s online tool where donors can virtually build a box. To get involved, visit samaritanspurse.org or call (714) 432-7030.

Thanks again to everyone who participated in this project. A simple gift, packed with love, can communicate hope and transform the lives of children worldwide.

Jennifer Trevithick, West Coast Regional Director
Operation Christmas Child