Community leaders found out how smart they were – or weren’t – at the 25th Annual Smart-A-Thon held on March 27 at the Verdugo Hills Hospital Council Room. The afternoon was emceed by Rick Dinger and CV Sheriff’s Captain Dave Silversparre.

Forty-two teams of four each paid $140 ($35 per participant) to compete in the annual trivia contest – the largest turnout yet, according to organizer Jean Maluccio.

“Unfortunately, two teams had to be turned away [because we were full],” said Maluccio.

Festivities included lunch, a silent auction, friendly competition, and awards. But a highlight of the afternoon may have been the dance performed by (the lucky?) guests who discovered a sticker on their program. The newly christened performers made their way to the front of the room and danced their way through a rendition of “Take Me Out to the Ballgame.” After being called out, the losers received a consolation prize of – what else? – a bag of peanuts.

Proceeds from the popular event build the Mary Pinola/CV Chamber of Commerce Education Fund that is dedicated to supporting educational programs throughout Crescenta/Cañada Valley. Recipients are recognized at the annual Crescenta Valley Chamber of Commerce installation luncheon that takes place early in the year.

An afternoon full of fun included a toast to the last 25 years and what the educational fundraiser means to the community and what the fund has provided to so many students over the years.