The next two months will see many opportunities for local businesses and residents to become more engaged in and connected to the Crescenta Valley community. Read on for information about activities and events brought to you by the CV Chamber.

The best way for businesses to let the community know about their goods and services is to meet potential customers and tell (or show) them firsthand. Sixty businesses and restaurants do just that at our annual Foothills Community Business Expo being held on Sept. 9 from 5 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at USC Verdugo Hills Hospital.  This event attracts hundreds of local residents because it’s free and full of useful information plus there’s complimentary document shredding and free food! Booth spaces cost $100 (if paid by Aug. 17) and are available to members of the CV, Montrose and/or La Cañada chambers. For those businesses that can’t find the time to host a booth, consider displaying your literature at the event for only $25. Check out our website for a flyer and booth application.

What do Crescenta-Cañada Pet Hospital, J’s Maintenance, Dilbeck Real Estate and Kebab Daddy have in common? They know that sponsorship of community events is a great way to advertise! Those four Chamber members and many others are sponsors of the Business Expo. If you’d like to get your name out there, call Lisa at the office for more information (818) 248-4957.

On Sept. 19, we’ll hold our annual 5K Run-Walk. Everyone is invited to this fun, easy excursion around the La Crescenta foothills. The race starts at 8 a.m. at Two Strike Park, heads south down Rosemont Avenue, then west on Orange. After a mile or so, we turn around and head back. For the little ones, a Kids Fun Run will take place in the park itself. A portion of your $20 entry fee will go to the non-profit of your choice. This is a great opportunity for local booster clubs to raise significant funds or for schools to fulfill those teacher wish lists. Here again, we have an opportunity for businesses to show community support. For a $100 sponsorship ($250 with logo), your company name will be printed on race T-shirts and in advertising. Deadline for sponsorship is Aug. 14. See the Chamber website for entry forms and more info.

On the evening of Oct. 8 we’ll host our annual Recognition Banquet at Brookside Golf Course. The Chamber will once again honor individuals, organizations and professional groups whose service to the community has improved the quality of life in the Crescenta Valley. Nominations are currently being accepted for the following categories: Man of the Year, Woman of the Year, Business of the Year, Organization of the Year, Educator of the Year, Volunteer of the Year and Beautification Award. Nominations may be made by individuals or organizations.  Selection of the awardees will be made by committee based on the following criteria:  contributions to the business environment, exceptional achievement or service to the community, and outstanding social, civic or educational leadership. Nomination forms can be found at www.crescentavalleychamber.org under Recognition Banquet.

And don’t forget our monthly mixer! This month’s will be at Caspian Services, 401 N. Brand Blvd., Glendale on the beautiful second floor patio as the sun sets, Aug. 12 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. The membership drawing has increased to $325 but you have to be present to win!

  Lisa DUPUY