State Honors Kentlands Business, Gaithersburg-Washington Grove Firehouse

Two longtime Gaithersburg establishments were honored Thursday by state Comptroller Peter Franchot.

The comptroller visited The Wine Harvest's Kentlands location and the Gaithersburg-Washington Grove Firehouse to present each with a proclamation.

The proclamations — to The Wine Harvest and the Firehouse, respectively — read:

In recognition of providing a great neighborhood gathering place with a welcoming, friendly atmosphere, delicious food and an amazing wine selection to the greater Gaithersburg area. With special appreciation for your contributions to the community and gratitude for being a notable local landmark, best wishes for continued growth and success. 

In celebration of more than 75 years of first rate emergency services to the citizens of Montgomery County, by combining career firefighters, emergency medical technicians and trained volunteers to ensure rapid response to community emergencies, and fostering a safe environment. With special appreciation for your contributions to the community, best wishes for continued growth and success.

In its 13th year of operation in the Kentlands, Wine Harvest owner Andy Meyrowitz said the business couldn't maintain its success without help from the community.

"We would never be able to do it without the community supporting us...we couldn't do it without you," Meyrowitz said.

The Gaithersburg-Washington Grove firehouse is among the busiest in the state, Joe Shapiro, a spokesperson for the state Comptroller's office, said. The firehouse responded to more than 10,000 calls in 2012, tops in Montgomery County, he said.