Celebrating Those Who Make A Difference

On Thursday I had the opportunity to attend the annual installation luncheon of the CV Chamber of Commerce and the grant distribution for the Mary Pinola-CV Chamber Education Fund. Looking around the room I recognized most of the faces, though there were several “newbies” who I didn’t know. The attendees, though, were there to support the work of the chamber of commerce (which hosts several fundraisers throughout the year including the popular Hometown Country Fair – this year on April 29, bingo, golf tournament, monthly mixers and scholarships for deserving high school seniors).

It was exciting to see how many people understand the importance of the work of the chamber and want to join this dynamic group. (To do so, call the chamber office at [818] 248-4957.)

I also enjoyed seeing the recipients of this year’s grants. Each recipient was grateful for the financial support and I learned something about each organization.

To read more about last Thursday’s luncheon and grant distribution, see page 10 of this week’s paper.

There are so many people who work “behind the scenes” to make sure our Crescenta Valley remains the jewel that it is. Most are part of local organizations that help facilitate this. Among these was Ken Biermann.

“Mr. Biermann” as he was commonly known through throughout Valley – perhaps because he was involved for over two decades at Crescenta Valley High School – died on Jan. 5 due to complications from COVID. He was an active part of the CV Chamber of Commerce, among many other organizations, and was instrumental in securing the beautiful Chevy Chase Country Club for our installation luncheon and grant distribution on Thursday.

Steve and I attended the celebration of life for Ken on Sunday held in the auditorium at the high school – a fitting location considering his years as coach and principal at the high school. It was also large enough to handle the hundreds of people who came out to say goodbye.

Ken, like the other icons in our Valley we’ve recently lost, you’ll be missed.