The Granada Hills Centennial Valentine’s Dance was located at the Knollwood Country Club in Granada Hills on Friday, February 13. The theme “Love thru the Decades” celebrated love across different eras.
Speaking of love through the decades, they did this cute little roll call asking how long folks had been married. They started with 30 years, then 40, then 50… and just when you thought it couldn’t get any better, Bam! A 60-year marriage champ stepped up. Now, me as a widower who always dreamed of hitting that 60-plus club like my folks did, I was feeling all the feels—cue the emotional music.
But then, plot twist: She walks up to accept her prize… all by herself. Yeah, no husband in sight! I’m thinking, maybe the secret to a long marriage isn’t just love and commitment—it’s letting your spouse stay home binge-watching TV while you take the spotlight. Who knew? Apparently, the key to 60 years is perfecting the art of flying solo when it counts. Husband’s probably at home yelling at the game, blissfully unaware he was not present to accept their trophy for “Longest Marriage”
This event was part of the Granada Hills Centennial celebration series. It was a sold-out dinner dance that beautifully combined Valentine’s Day festivities with the centennial spirit. Guests enjoyed an Italian cuisine dinner followed by dancing, creating a formal yet festive atmosphere where nearly everyone embraced the theme by wearing pink or red.
The event was organized by Committee Chairperson John Ciccarelli, along with committee members Lori Sawa, Emilie Koster, Maria Fisk, Ivette Bertin, and Linda Jenkins. Honorary Chairperson Councilmember John Lee of District 12 also played a key role by promoting and participating in various events throughout the centennial year (April 2025 – April 2026). His involvement underscores his dedication to representing and celebrating the rich history and community spirit of Granada Hills within his council district.
“Granada Hills 100” refers to the centennial celebration marking 100 years of the Granada Hills community. This milestone is being commemorated with a series of events throughout 2025 and 2026, highlighting the history, culture, and community spirit of Granada Hills. For a calendar of events and updates visit the official event page: granadahills100.com.
Upcoming events will embrace the Centennial theme and include student art contests, local business campaigns, formal dances, and gala banquets. These activities actively engage schools, local businesses, and residents in a variety of contests, campaigns, and celebrations.
Jay Ross is a Granada Hills resident and Valley-based photojournalist.
