The most common mantra in the real estate business is the answer to the rhetorical question “What is the most important consideration when it comes to buying a home?”
“Location, location, location.”
San Marino’s John Quinn has taken that theory quite literally when it came to choosing a charitable cause. Quinn, the president of the Old Mill Foundation’s board of directors, lives right next to the iconic structure and oldest commercial building in Southern California, which is currently celebrating its 200th anniversary.
“It’s a short commute to meetings,” joked Quinn, who has served on the board for 12 years, the last two as president. “What better way to keep an eye on my neighbor?”
Quinn got involved at The Mill when he and his wife, Julie, moved to San Marino from Hong Kong in 1990.
Quinn loves The Mill for “its peaceful garden, timeless building, deep history and its ability to bring the community together.”
Current challenges include “finding more board members who are ready to roll up their sleeves, finding money for new outside lighting to show the beauty of The Mill at evening events and finding platforms to showcase The Mill while protecting the residential community that surrounds it,” according to Quinn.
One such opportunity will take place on Friday, Sept. 30 when the Old Mill Foundation presents ‘A Moveable Feast,’ an event celebrating the 200th anniversary of El Molino Viejo that will be highlighted by mariachis, libations, hors d’oeuvres and music that will be spread across the entire property.
“We consider this an opportunity to bring more of the community together to celebrate the Old Mill’s 200 years and have fun with our history at the same time,” Quinn said.
To that end, Quinn said the board of directors is hoping to “get 200 new foundation members for our 200th anniversary.”
“We need the community to step up and support the Old Mill,” he reiterated.
Other plans include a restoration of a caretaker’s cottage near the historic Mill and the outdoor lighting.
And – like a good neighbor – Quinn is passionate about and protective of his neighbor.
“It is hard to imagine a place in ‘new’ California that has been occupied for 200 years, one that connects us to the past and brings a peaceful present to its visitors,” said Quinn. “The Old Mill responds well to loving care by its supporters and is emerging to form a cornerstone of community involvement. We believe that everyone benefits and all are welcome.”
The Old Mill Foundation’s ‘A Moveable Feast’ celebration will be held on Friday, Sept. 30 from 6-9:30 p.m. at The Old Mill. Attendees will also be able to enjoy the latest California Art Club exhibition, ‘The Old Mill: Celebrating 2 Centuries’ in The Mill’s Granary Gallery. Tickets are available on a limited basis. Please call The Mill at (626) 449-5458 for more information.
