The Valley Industry Association is getting in a winter state of mind as Nov. 8 approaches, preparing for the return of the VIA Bash, featuring a theme of “Winter Wonderland.”

The black-tie event is expected to sell out the grand ballroom at the Hyatt Regency Valencia, and is also a fundraiser for the VIA Education Foundation. The nomination period is also open for the evening’s VIA Awards that honor the Volunteer of the Year, Business of the Year, VIA Partner of the Year and the Rising Star. Past recipients have included the Bank of Santa Clarita, Bayless Engineering & Manufacturing, Poole & Shaffery LLP and Randy Moberg of LBW Insurance & Financial Services.

“We’re thrilled to see the Bash make a return,” VIA President and CEO Kathy Norris said. “This has always been a well-received event giving people a great night out and raising money for a good cause.”

A major component of the Bash is raising funds for the VIA Education Foundation that oversees Connecting to Success, an annual program providing high school students from all SCV high schools with training for entering the workforce. Over three sessions, Connecting to Success features keynote speaker Dan Williams, plus VIA member-led breakout sessions that cover everything from how to prepare for a job interview to proper business ethics. This year’s Bash features Snowflake Sponsorships, with each $25 contribution covering the cost of one student to attend Connecting to Success.

Keeping the energy level up and getting people on the dance floor will be local band Blue Sky. Featuring the talents of Rudi Bendig, Steve Dole, Warren George, Melanie Meyer and Steve Tannehill, the band plays current and classic rock, pop and R&B hits. In addition to numerous charity events, they frequently play at venues including Wine 661, Liquid Volume, Salt Creek Grille and the Tournament Players Club.

This year’s Bash sponsors include Southern California Edison and American Business Machines at the Crystal level; Silver sponsors Bayless Engineering & Manufacturing, the city of Santa Clarita, Courier-Messenger, Hyatt Regency Valencia; LBW Insurance & Financial Services, Logix Federal Credit Union, PCS Group, Storm Water Resources and US Bank; Sparkle sponsors Custom Human Resource Solutions and Cohen Law; and Henry Rodriguez State Farm.

A title sponsorship opportunity is still available, in addition to sponsorships at the $2,500 and $1,500 levels. Program book advertisements are available starting at $259.For more information, contact the VIA office at (661) 294-8088 or admin@via.org.