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Locals honored at awards banquet

November 23, 2007|By Robin Goldsworthy

Community members and civic leaders gathered at La Cañada Flintridge Country Club on Thursday evening, Nov. 15, to honor outstanding citizens for the contributions they have made to the foothill community.

The Crescenta Valley Chamber of Commerce hosted the annual Recognition Banquet, which was attended by150 people.

“Events like this showcase what a great community we live in,” Chamber President Howard Hakes said.

“From our schools and law enforcement to the incredible volunteerism that so many people just do because they love to better the community they live in,” Hakes said.

Hakes and Honorary Mayor Leslie Lesh welcomed the crowd followed by the presentation of colors by the Crescenta Valley High School Air Force Junior ROTC and the audience’s communal reciting of the Pledge of Allegiance.

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Sisters Tracey Thomas from CVHS and Rebecca Thomas from Rosemont sang the national anthem and former CVHS co-principal Gary Talbert offered the invocation.

After dinner, the presentation ceremonies started, beginning with certificates by political representatives from every level of government.

There were 12 awards presented by the chamber, including the first ever recognition of Student of the Year, which was given to CVHS senior Rosetta Ragusa.

From law enforcement, Officer Kris Faciane of the California Highway Patrol, Sgt. Joseph Raya of the Los Angeles County Sheriffs and Det. Joe Allen of the Glendale Police Department were honored.

Capt. Greg Gussman of the Los Angeles County Fire Department was recognized for his work.

The MarketPlace Shopping Center received the Beautification Award for the extensive facelift that was recently completed on their facility.

Richard Toyon, a founding member of the recently formed Crescenta Valley Arts Council and an active member of the Santa Monica Conservancy, was named Volunteer of the Year.

Liza and Tim Morelli, owners of Bonners Rentals, were honored for their company’s tireless support of the many non-profits in the area.

The CVHS Air Force Junior ROTC received Organization of the Year for the many events they participate in throughout the year.

Rosemont Middle School teacher Laura Rivera thanked all those who supported her throughout the years as she accepted the Educator of the Year award.

Sharon Raghavachary was honored as Woman of the Year for her work with the Crescenta Valley Town Council.

Warren Boehm was the final awardee of the evening.

He has provided a legacy of volunteerism that has included being past president and honorary mayor of the Crescenta Valley Chamber of Commerce, chairman of the Chamber Fireworks Program, a retired member of the Montrose Search & Rescue team and is currently active in several civic organizations.


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