Business Owners Try for Banner Days

In an attempt to restore pride and pay tribute to the beauty of the area, business owners and other organizations have begun installing celebratory banners along Foothill Boulevard.

The royal blue and gold banners proclaim the two adjacent communities of Sunland and Tujunga the “Gateway to the Foothills.” The 3-foot-wide by 8-foot-tall banners are being mounted on light posts.

“It’s to revitalize area businesses and for the beautification of the Sunland-Tujunga area,” said John Lee, a deputy of Councilman Joel Wachs, who sponsored a motion seeking City Council approval of the project. “It helps the businesses have a little more pride in the area.”

Many people commute through Sunland-Tujunga each day.

Lee said the banners help others recognize the beauty and commercial viability of the area.

Since July 3, businesses have raised 25 of the banners between Sherman Grove and Mount Gleason avenue on Foothill Boulevard, said Steven Elowe, a local business owner who approached the area Chamber of Commerce with the idea.

“I got tired of listening to people giving the area a bad rap,” Elowe said. “I’ve heard from a lot of business owners who really think it helps the area.”

Ultimately, Elowe would like to see as many as 100 banners line the boulevard from Lowell Avenue on the east to the Foothill Freeway on the west.

They cost $179.90 each, including installation, and Elowe promises he is not making a profit.

“I’m starting to get orders from a lot of people who have seen the banners,” he said. “There’s even some churches that have expressed interest.”

Those wanting more information on acquiring a banner can leave a message for Elowe at (818) 566-3905.