Part of the CV Chamber’s mission statement reads, “To promote programs of a civic, social and cultural nature which are designed to increase the wellbeing of the Crescenta Valley.” We guarantee your wellbeing will increase if you attend some of our fun, upcoming events!

We started off February with a rousing mixer at Bob Smith Toyota, complete with Mardi Gras shenanigans and led by Chamber President Kaipo Chock in full jester costume. This mixer traditionally serves as the kick-off for the Smart-a-thon, our annual brain-teasing quiz-a-thon to benefit the Mary Pinola/CV Chamber Education Fund. Last year the fund gave out over $24,000 to deserving educators in the community. We hope to raise even more at the high-spirited, popular event coming up on March 16 at USC Verdugo Hills Hospital. Call the office for more information.

The weekend after the Smart-a-thon is the annual Crescenta Valley Day at the Races. Held in conjunction with the Montrose-Verdugo City Chamber and the CV Sheriff’s Support Group, Day at the Races is the way to enjoy Santa Anita Park. Your ticket gets you a seat in the special party area at the Top of the Stretch, the final bend in the track where horses and jockeys start pouring on the speed. Sheriffs will be cooking fresh barbecue and there will be chances to win not only horse races but also raffles and silent auctions. Tickets are $25 and include parking. Attendees 17 and under are $15. Call the office for tickets.

This weekend, there’s a big, grand opening celebration at Orchard Supply Hardware, 3100 Foothill Blvd. with music, giveaways and other prizes. It goes all day Saturday and Sunday, Feb. 20 and Feb. 21. Come check out their beautiful new store.

And coming up next weekend is Bingo Night. Each game wins at least $100! The evening culminates with a special blackout game paying $400 thanks to our sponsors at Valley Automotive Group and Early Rodders. Buy tickets beforehand at the Chamber office or the night of the event (Saturday, Feb. 27) at the American Legion Hall, 4011 La Crescenta Ave. Doors open at 6 p.m.

  Lisa DUPUY