Business Journal 010623

Located in the Santa Clarita filming community of Los Angeles, CA., Rancho Deluxe is a premier movie ranch location with over 200 acres of property nestled in the mountains of Placerita Canyon near Melody Ranch, Sable Ranch, and Disney’s Golden Oak studios.

With its wide variety of natural exteriors and fully functional interior sets, Rancho Deluxe is used primarily as a studio filming location for feature films, television series, reality shows, photo shoots, and commercials, and it is located within the 30-mile studio zone of Hollywood.

You Don’t Need Permission to Grieve

PATRICK MOODY Henry Mayo Newhall Hospital

There can be a lot of pressure have an upbeat outlook on the New Year. But if you’ve experienced a loss—of a loved one, a relationship or a job—you might find it difficult to summon energy and enthusiasm for the start of a new year.

If you’re grieving, here are six steps from the National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization and AARP that may help you handle the beginning of 2023:

1. Remember: There’s no right way to grieve. Grief is a normal reaction to a loss, and no two people experience it in exactly the same way. Working through loss—and the feelings you have—is part of the way forward.

2. Change your traditions—or take comfort in them. From making resolutions to football-watching parties, many of us have New Year traditions. If one seems too painful now, it’s OK to skip it. On the other hand, if you think it might bring you comfort instead, stick with it. Whether you choose to change or keep your traditions is up to you.

3. Pause to remember. Many people choose to honor lost loved ones by doing something special in their memory. Maybe that’s giving to a charity, volunteering at a shelter, or sharing a favorite story about your loved one with friends or relatives.

4. Do what feels right. If you don’t feel like attending a party or event, it’s OK to opt out. Be realistic about what you think you can do. At the same time, there’s nothing wrong with going out if you enjoy it.

5. Reach out to family and friends. You may find comfort in being around those who care about you, whether that’s your relatives or a dear friend. If you want to talk, let them know it may help you deal with your grief. Support groups or online forums for people living with loss may also be helpful to you.

6. Take good care of yourself. Grief can drain your energy. Eat a balanced diet and get plenty of rest. In addition, regular exercise can give you more energy, which can help you cope. Make time to do things that comfort you and that may

take your mind off grieving. Watch a movie, read a book or take a warm bath. Here are a list of resources to help you deal with your grief:

CaringInfo. “Types of Grief and Loss.” www.caringinfo.org/planning/grief-and-loss/ types-of-grief-and-loss.

Mental Health America. “Bereavement and Grief.” www.mhanational.org/ bereavement-and-grief.

American Academy of Family Physicians. “Grieving: Facing Illness, Death, and Other Losses.” familydoctor.org/grieving-facingillness-death-and-other-losses. 

Old Town Junction Honored as 21st Senate District’s Small Business of The Month

BY RYLEE HOLWAGER Signal Staff Writer

Sen. Scott Wilk, R-Santa Clarita, honored chef Daniel Otto’s restaurant The Old Town Junction as December’s Small Business of the Month with a Senate resolution Friday at the restaurant.

Glasses clinked and forks dinked inside The Old Town Junction in Newhall for the recognition ceremony earlier this month.

“I feel really honored,” said Otto, “I appreciate you for accommodating us, having this opportunity. I want to thank our community and all our dignitaries or leaders out here for giving us the opportunity to open up a great place to serve all of our people, so I couldn’t do it with-

out this amazing team and obviously the support of the community.”

Wilk has been giving out the Small Business of the Month recognition for 10 years now, since he was elected into the state Assembly in 2012.

However, the story of Old Town Junction’s location goes back much farther, to a time when Newhall’s Main Street was in its early development.

In fact, the location’s history includes a tale that exemplifies the enduring spirit of California entrepreneurs, and how they’ve been able to adapt to challenges throughout the state’s history.

Albert Swall constructed the two-story brick building that houses Old Town Junction at the intersection of Market Street and what was then Spruce Street

What to Expect When You’re Not Expecting (Wire Fraud) – PART 1

BY BRIAN D. WALTERS, ESQ. Poole & Shaffery

Particularly during the pandemic, there has been an ever-increasing number of incidents of wire fraud. According to the FBI’s Internet Crime Report, there were $6.9 billion in victim losses in 2021 due to wire fraud. There were 2,300 average complaints received daily with an average of 552,000 complaints annually over the last five years.

If you or someone you know becomes the victim of wire fraud, the first 24 hours after the event become extremely important to your success or failure to recover the stolen funds. Following the principles outlined below will afford you the best opportunity to get back what belongs to you.

Step 1 Contact your financial

institution that executed the wire and have a “fraud alert” sent to the bank that received your wire. Demand that they immediately contact the fraud department of the receiving financial institution and place a “fraud freeze” on the account so that your funds cannot be further transferred; and demand that your financial institution confirms whether your funds are still in the recipient’s account at the other bank. If not, insist that your bank immediately identify where the funds were subsequently transferred, and your bank immediately notify any banks that received your funds to place a “fraud freeze” on those accounts.

Step 2 File a complaint with IC3. The FBI has an Internet Crime Complaint Center, referred to as IC3. Go to www.ic3.gov/ complaint/default.aspx to file a complaint.

Step 3 Contact your local FBI Field Office and provide the IC3

Complaint Number. You can find your local field office here: https:// www.fbi.gov/contact-us/fieldoffices. Call the field office and ask for the special agent that processes financial or cybercrimes.

Step 4 Call the bank(s) that received your funds. Call the bank that initially received your funds and ask to speak to the fraud prevention department. Ask for a “fraud freeze” to be placed on the funds so that no further transfer of the funds can be made. Confirm that the “fraud freeze” has been placed and for how long the bank will keep the “fraud freeze” in place (this varies by financial institution). Ask if any funds have been transferred or withdrawn from the bank account that received your funds since your funds were wired. If they have been withdrawn, ask for the names and locations of the bank(s) that received your funds and request that the bank sends a message to the receiving banks re-

questing a “fraud freeze” on those accounts as well.

Step 5 Contact local authorities and file a police report. Ask for the detective or police officer responsible for wire fraud.

Step 6 Call legal counsel who handles cybersecurity issues and insurance carrier (if applicable). Depending on the circumstances, legal counsel may need to take immediate civil action to protect your interests, including the possible filing of a temporary restraining order (TRO). If you are a business or (less likely) an individual who carries errors and omissions, professional liability or any form of cybersecurity or cyber loss coverage, contact your insurance agent and place your insurer on notice of the incident, including the IC3 and police report numbers.

State Sen. Scott Wilk, R-Santa Clarita, recognizes Daniel Otto, the chef and owner of The Old Town Junction, as December’s Small Business of the Month.

PHOTO BY CHRIS TORRES / THE SIGNAL

SCV BUSINESS VOICES

Top Four Ways Hearing Aids Make You Look Good

DR. KEVIN BOLDER AuD, Audiology Associates

According to the Hearing Health Foundation, nearly 50 million Americans experience hearing loss, yet only one in every five people who would benefit from wearing a hearing aid actually wears one. While some cite financial reasons or don’t believe they have a hearing problem, there are those who are concerned wearing hearing aids will make them appear weak or look old. We disagree. In fact, here are five of the top reasons we believe wearing hearing aids makes you look good.

„ You have more energy to do the things you love - You might find it hard to believe that hearing aids can give you more energy, until you realize there is such a thing as hearing loss exhaustion. Hearing loss can

cause emotional exhaustion, too, leading to increased levels of stress, anxiety and depression.

„

You can be part of the conversationThere’s nothing more frustrating than not being able to hear the conversation during family gatherings or in social situations. Get your hearing tested by a hearing healthcare professional and seek treatment immediately if they prescribe hearing devices.

„ You look fashionable - Depending on the type of hearing loss you have, you may not be a candidate for one of the invisible hearing aids. No worries — there are plenty of ways to incorporate other models into your own fashion style.

„ You’re a role model for good health - Untreated hearing loss can lead to a variety of other health-related problems or be an

indicator of other serious medical issues such as Alzheimer’s and dementia, depression, anxiety and stress, brain atrophy and increased risk for falls.

That’s why it’s important to have your hearing tested — especially if you suspect you have hearing loss — and to seek treatment immediately if you’re diagnosed with hearing loss. To have your hearing tested call Audiology Associates. Kevin Bolder, Au.D. and John Davis, Au.D. can direct you on the path to better hearing. Audiology Associates can be reached at 661-284-1900, visit our office at 25425 Orchard Village Road, Ste 220, Santa Clarita, CA 91355, or our website at www.AudiologyAssociates. net.

We are Hearing Healthcare Excellence!

BY PERRY SMITH SCV Business Journal Editor

Acouple of things become obvious after meeting Anthony Syracuse, co-owner of LA North, and touring one of the 16 massive soundstages his company operates in Santa Clarita:

1. He’s an industry veteran whose know-how and connections drive the success of his burgeoning, 4-year-old company; and

2. he’s one of the most enthusiastic

ambassadors of in-state filming, especially in the city, that anyone could ask for.

The 45-year-old remembers first being drawn to film sets before he even attended Saugus High, visiting his dad “at the office” so to speak, while the elder Syracuse worked on building the sets for Steven Spielberg’s “Hook” in 1989.

After graduating, he went right to work in the industry, following in those footsteps with work on his first project, “Hard Rain,” a 1998 action flick that

starred Morgan Freeman and Christian Slater.

In 2006, he became the youngest construction coordinator in the United States, while he was working on a film called “3:10 to Yuma,” a Western action drama, but his success came at a cost. He spent nearly a half-dozen years on the road, chasing work on blockbuster productions to a growing number of places that were offering tax advantages to try and be competitive with Hollywood’s Thirty-Mile Zone.

The “chase” became a challenge for Syracuse, who noticed that there was less and less local work and, at the same time, he and his wife were raising a young family, and he desired something a little closer to home.

Then Syracuse developed a local plan with his business partner, real estate expert John Prabhu.

The two now own and operate close to a half-million square feet of soundstage space spread out over five campuses in Santa Clarita, with plans to grow.

“Our model is a little different. Our model is, good shows that are looking for a reasonable place to work,” Syracuse said, whose studio has hosted everything from “The Fablemans,” another Spielberg blockbuster, and “Emancipation,” Will Smith’s latest release, which is available now from Apple Studios.

He also knows he’s part of a community that works hard to draw filming to the area, and that’s a big help, too. He gave a big credit to Mike DeLorenzo, president of Santa Clarita Studios, as one of the biggest reasons why Santa Clarita’s rep is

so strong right now. That facility was the first-purpose built studio in Santa Clarita, and it continues to grow, also.

“You can quote me on this: LA North would not be in existence without Mike DeLorenzo. He saw something out here,” Syracuse said, describing how DeLorenzo has helped him “move mountains” to facilitate filming projects, recalling one specifically at Magic Mountain.

Syracuse added that the support he receives from Santa Clarita, whether it’s from the Film Office, local fire officials or code enforcement, is a big part of what makes the studio unique. The facilities also offer isolation from distraction and anonymity that lets the stars of major motion pictures do their jobs without a lot of the hassles that exist south of the Newhall Pass.

“The best part about this is the city of Santa Clarita,” he added. “If you take this property, we put it anywhere south of the 5 and (Highway) 14, the riff-raff that goes on outside of those properties is something that we don’t have up here.”

Growing and Growing

Triscenic Production Services has been a force in the film community for a little over 35 years, starting with a 10,000-square-foot lot in the Commerce, and now operating approximately 1.75 million square feet throughout Southern California.

The company has helped out on more than 4,000 films, shows and commercials over the years, according to its website, and it continues to grow due to its ability to recognize trends and adapt to them,

according to Bob Doyle, executive vice president of business development.

The company’s most recent growth area has been set recycling, disposal and sound stages, with the company currently operating seven locations in the city.

“We work with the major studios, of course, but also, we do a lot of work with production companies,” Doyle said. “And we service the different platforms from commercials and music videos to TV series and then feature films as well. And we’d like to think that there’s no there’s no project too small or too large that we’re not willing to jump in and help out.”

He also shared what many others have in terms of the welcoming environment that Santa Clarita offers, not only from the city’s support staff, and a proximity to other companies in the industry, but from the surrounding environment, too.

The city offers freeway-proximity convenience, lots of options for different locations and supportive atmosphere, Doyle said, and whether the project is a shorter music video shoot or a feature film, he always hears positive feedback from production companies.

“I mean, from my perspective, it’s a safe environment. You know, when you’re doing a lot of work down in (Los Angeles) and all the other areas, there’s a lot of homelessness, unfortunately, and there’s a lot of crime — up here in Santa Clarita, it’s a clean, safe environment to work in. Everything is conveniently located. There are so many options for food. I mean, it’s just the best of all, you know, the best of all possible cases.”

Behind the Scenes

Mark Larinto, who runs The Scenic Companies with his brother Robert and his son Tyler shared the same sentiment regarding why he’s made big expansion plans in Santa Clarita.

The Larintos run a company that stores sets for hundreds of production companies, including the ones that produce Hollywood’s biggest awards shows, a countless number of streaming productions and a host of big budget movies.

They recently signed a multiyear lease on nearly 300,000 square feet of space at the Saugus Station Industrial Center, behind Railroad Avenue off Springbrook Avenue, where he plans to install the headquarters of their operations, not far from where the city recently approved about 400,000 square feet of building for The Covington Group, a Dallas-based business park developer.

It signaled a big commitment for the business owners who have more than 1.2 million square feet of storage space, including properties in Valencia, North Hollywood and Atlanta, which Larinto likened to “putting his money where his mouth is” in terms of all of his support for his hometown.

“It was a pretty big investment ... and, you know, it shows how bullish we are in Santa Clarita,” Mark Larinto said, during a recent tour of his warehouse, which stores everything from the oversized Academy Award statues of Oscar to a spaceship that Johnny Depp commissioned in order to send Hunter S.

The Scenic Companies’ Mark Larinto walks through a 100,000-square-foot warehouse storing movie props and scenery. This is one of eight warehouses totaling 420,000 square feet at Scenic Expression. PHOTOS BY DAN WATSON / THE SIGNAL

Do This First: Set Your Competitive Advantage

KEN KELLER SCVBJ Contributing Writer

Iattended a presentation given by a CEO. Following our first meeting a few years previously, I had made an introduction that landed his company a sizeable amount of profitable revenue. So, he knew me.

He was looking at me when he said to his audience, “Consultants advise us how to do things, how to implement things, but they don’t tell us what we need to be doing.”

My understanding was that he wanted help determining what the strategic options were available to his company, and then he wanted additional help deciding which strategy to implement.

The columns I craft this year will focus on the “what” to do for success. It’s not going to be a series of “how to” articles but rather, a laser beam on strategies to improve the focus, performance and results of your business.

I intend to write about people, processes, profits, revenue, alignment and growth. By the end of 2023, any CEO that implements even a quarter of what I suggest should be well on their way to a better place.

Successful businesses know precisely who their customers are, what they need and how they want to receive their product or service. But they also need to choose the correct strategy to maximize their value to the market. In the book, “The Discipline of Market Leaders,” the authors say:

“No company can succeed today by trying to be all things to all people. It must instead find the unique value that it alone can deliver to a chosen market.”

A company must take its “why” and choose the competitive strategy that best helps it offer its unique value. What is proposed are three primary competitive strategies: operational excellence, customer intimacy and product leadership. Let me elaborate.

Operational excellence is used in highvolume, transaction-oriented environ-

Three Primary Competitive Strategies Operational Excellence

Product Leadership Consumer Intimacy

ments where fulfillment is standardized, and product differentiation has slight advantage. A primary focus is automation and speed, whether in manufacturing, distribution or work process. Customers who buy from operational excellence companies seek commodity products or services, low prices and high availability. Operational excellence companies include Wal-Mart, Amazon, FedEx and UPS.

A customer intimacy strategy focuses on the customization of products and the personalization of service to meet the customer’s individual needs. Success in this approach requires deep market and particular customer knowledge, including insight into their processes and their desired outcomes.

Customers seek customer intimacy companies for high personalization and efficacy solutions, low risk, and are willing to pay a higher cost. And often wait for delivery. Companies using a customer intimacy strategy include Starbucks, Home Depot and Chick-Fil-A.

The third choice is product leadership, which aims to offer continuous superior value through products. Innovation, high quality and status are the attractions for

their customers — and they are willing to pay a high price and endure limited availability.

Product leadership is the strategy for those companies bringing new product categories or “bleeding edge” technologies for early adopters. Examples of these include Apple, Disney Parks and Tesla.

Companies must actively compete in all three disciplines, but can only choose one to lead in. Knowing who you are and choosing the appropriate strategy to emphasize your value is foundational to having a competitive advantage worth having.

Which strategy will you lead your company with?

Ken Keller is an executive coach who works with small- and mid-size B2B company owners, CEOs and entrepreneurs. He facilitates formal top executive peer groups for business expansion, including revenue growth, improved internal efficiencies and greater profitability.

Email:Ken.Keller@strategicadvisoryboards.com. Keller’s column reflects his own views and not necessarily those of the SCVBJ.

Financial Habits for an Impactful 2023

IVY PIERSON

Founder and Investment Advisor Representative Pierson Wealth Management

that would cause a change to previous goals? Do you want to pay down credit card debt in the next year? Do you hope to sell your home and downsize in the next ten years?

DEVELOP AN EFFECTIVE PLAN

Beginning the new year with intentions of improving your financial situation is common. However, setting such goals without a plan in place will likely result in replicating similar goals again next year. Break the cycle in 2023 by considering these steps to help build the foundation for a successful financial future.

REVIEW YOUR CURRENT FINANCIAL SITUATION

Gather statements from your bank accounts, retirement accounts and investment accounts. Take inventory of valuable assets and loans, credit card debt and monthly living expenses to grasp your current financial situation.

REVISIT YOUR GOALS

Once your finances are laid out, determine short, intermediate and long-term goals. Has your financial situation changed

Talk with a financial advisor for help building an effective roadmap to achieve your goals. Stay informed and get educated on basic financial strategies that may impact your plan. Remain consistent!

For help making 2023 the year you make an impact on your financial health, contact us at (661) 297-7566 or visit www. PiersonWealthManagement. com.

Securities and advisory services offered through Cetera Advisors LLC (doing insurance business in CA as CFGA Insurance Agency LLC), member FINRA/SIPC, a broker/dealer and a Registered Investment Adviser. Cetera is under separate ownership from any other named entity. CA Insurance Lic#0C92500. For a comprehensive review of your personal situation, consult with a tax or legal advisor. Neither Cetera Advisors LLC nor any of its representatives may give legal or tax advice. 

Prosperity with Confidence

Ivy Pierson, CEP, MBA

Founder & Investment Advisor Representative

On the Lot

Since its opening in 2018, LA North has grown to a facility that now houses 16 of the largest soundstages in California, including its newest facility, called The View, at 29051 Avenue Valley View in Valencia. In just a few short years of existence, LA North already has hosted Hollywood’s biggest names. Here are a few of its recent projects:

“80 for Brady”

“Creed 3”

“Don’t Worry Darling”

“Emancipation”

“The Fablemans”

“King Richard”

“Space Jam: A New Legacy”

“Top Gun: Maverick”

FILM

Continued from page 9

Thompson’s ashes up to space to the lifeboats from the movie “Titanic.”

“There’s a couple of reasons: One, because it’s in the 30-Mile Zone and it’s such an easy place to film because the Film Office is really welcoming to productions,” Larinto said, adding that when he talks to representatives from streaming companies like Amazon Studios and Netflix, they cite the same reasons Syracuse mentioned for why filming is great in the SCV.

“They find it really easy to film out here. It’s not like that in the city of Los Angeles. That’s one thing. The other thing, I think, anecdotally, is a lot of people in the industry live here and they want to shoot here,” he added.

The success of so many facilities out here is also a driver of more success, he added.

“And the reason why we’re

able to grow like that is because we have studios opening up like LA North ... Syracuse is great. Mike (DeLorenzo) over at Santa Clarita Studios, they’re bringing in the big-name shows, and they’re creating a lot of business not only for the studios, but for the ancillary vendors like us.”

On the Rancho

Steve Arklin Jr., owner and manager of Rancho Deluxe in Placerita Canyon, also spoke highly of the Santa Clarita Film Office and how it helps facilitate more production.

“The Film Office does a great job of helping us get the permits turned over quickly,” Arklin said, noting that the industry often requires flexibility because a lot of last-minute projects can come up.

“I mean, the productions still have to follow the rules, there’s still the ‘red tape,’ but the Film Office does a great job of getting everything turned around, and lining up

(the necessary permits) in a quick amount of time,” he added.

A lot of productions will come and go throughout the year, he pointed out, and the industry is constantly changing and adapting.

“Westworld,” which filmed at Rancho Deluxe for several years, was recently canceled by HBO; but nowadays with so many platforms for viewers, there’s always a chance someone else could pick it up.

Regardless, the 350-acre facility off Placerita Canyon Road has hosted its regular mix of episodic shows, such as “NCIS,” and a number of feature films over the last 12 months.

“This year, I’m happy to say we’ve been pretty busy,” Arklin said. “I’ve been fortunate enough to have quite a few projects (at Rancho Deluxe).”

And while there might be some flux from year to year, and no one can predict exactly how the global economy

will impact new productions, he said Santa Clarita is wellpositioned no matter what the new year brings.

“I think the filming industry is still big and strong,” Arklin said, “and Santa Clarita is still going to be one of the big players, because that’s where the majority of the filming wants to take place.”

Back to the Future

The Santa Clarita Valley’s history in film dates back almost 120 years now, with perhaps the earliest official production identified in SCVHistory.com as D.W. Griffith’s “Ramona,” which starred Mary Pickford in 1910 and was shot in one of many historic locations that dot the area’s landscape, Rancho Camulos.

From its humble silent film beginnings, the industry has grown up and around the SCV, which remains a part of Hollywood’s famed TMZ,

LA North co-owner Anthony Syracuse gives a tour one of his 16 soundstages, a 44,000-square-foot location at The View, one of five campuses the company operates in Santa Clarita.

New Year, New Career!

HOLLY SCHROEDER President & CEO of SCVEDC

What are your job goals for 2023? Are you looking to advance in your current profession? Or take your career in a new direction? For many the past few years have been a time to take stock of their professional goals, leading to the Great Retirement, The Great Resignation, and a record number of people switching jobs.

It’s that time of the year again when many of us look back on the past and plan future goals or ambitions. Trying to predict the moving target that is the US job market remains difficult. However, one thing appears to persist as we enter into 2023: it’s still a job seekers market and there are plenty of jobs out there! Different regions and specific industries across the US have seen drops in growth and cooling of their respective markets. Here in the SCV we’ve actually accelerated in employment growth, with a number of local companies continuing to expand and increasing hiring efforts.

As you consider your plans for 2023, you may find yourself returning to a long commute, as companies call people back to the office. If this is no longer desirable, working locally is a great option! LiveWorkSCV.com is a free resource that matches SCV job opportunities with local SCV talent.

Job postings are free to SCV employers, and all jobs are reviewed before publishing to assure they meet the SCV locale criteria. Job seekers can create a profile, connect their LinkedIn account, and sign up for job alerts that match their skill sets. Santa Clarita Valley employers can post jobs for free and search the database of potential candidates. The numbers don’t lie! In 2022 alone, LiveWorkSCV.com received over 850 job postings from close to 150 different local employers, and over 2,300 total applications submitted by job seekers.

Now more than ever, this job board plays an important role as SCV businesses plan their strategies for their workforce in the coming year. This resource provides a valuable service to both local companies and residents, especially for those whose jobs have been disrupted due to the pandemic.

Hit the ground running in 2023 and visit LiveWorkSCV.com today to find the perfect job for your skill set right here in the Santa Clarita Valley.

The Santa Clarita Valley Economic Development Corp. is a unique private/public partnership representing the united effort of regional industry and government leaders. The SCVEDC utilizes an integrated approach to attracting,

retaining, and expanding a diversity of businesses in the Santa Clarita Valley, especially those in key industry clusters, by offering competitive business services and other resources. For more information, visit SCVEDC.org. 

Centennial Chair of the

Board

Becki Robb, from Princess Cruises, will serve as the Centennial Chair of the Board. Becki will lead as the Chamber enters its second century of existence. She will be sworn in during the Centennial Awards + Installation, scheduled for Thursday, February 23rd, 2023.

Becki Robb is the Senior Director, Special Events at Princess Cruises. In her role, she plans and executes special events, sales and marketing functions for Princess Cruises, including shipboard events, ship launches, new product initiatives and sales trade shows.

The SCV Chamber has been at the forefront of the business community and the history that it is known for. Having been established before the City, the SCV Chamber assumed the role of leading the business community throughout the Santa Clarita Valley and has since then grown to be the largest membershipbased organization in the third largest city of Los Angeles County. The SCV Chamber has fostered relationships with local, state, and federal elected and public officials., and partner organizations, locally and federally, to ensure Santa Clarita is home to a healthy and vibrant business community.

Order your 2023 California and Federal Employment Poster

Now is the time to order your 2023 all in one California and Federal Labor Law posters! Every business needs an updated poster to be displayed in every business location and jobsite starting in the new year. The posters are available in English and Spanish and in paper or laminated options. Severe fines and penalties are assessed if a business doesn’t display a current poster. Posters will be available for collection at the end of the year. Members receive special discounts! Email us at hello@scvchamber. com to place your order!

Photo by SchlickArt Photography and Video

2023 Board of Directors

CHAIR OF THE BOARD

BECKI ROBB - PRINCESS CRUISES

EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

HUNT BRALY - Poole Shaffery

ANDREA CARPENTER - Logix

MARISOL ESPINOZA - Southern California Gas Company

Michael Grisanti - Hedman Partners, LLP

DR. CHRIS RAIGOSA - KAISER PERMANENTE

SANDY SANCHEZ - FivePoint

JOHN VANCE - Vance Wealth

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

JENNIFFER ABBOTT - HUMAN ELEMENT COMPANY

KIARA BROWN - CALIFORNIA INSTITUTE OF THE ARTS

KAREN BRYDEN - SCV Locations

STEVE COLE - SCV Water Agency

Tom COLE - City of Santa Clarita

Allie Dierckman - Scorpion

MATT DIERCKMAN - Colliers International

TROY HOOPER - Kiwi RESTAURANT Partners

PATRICK MOODY - Henry Mayo Newhall Hospital

DR. IZU OKPARA - Omni Wound Physicians

Patrice Quishenberry - Williams Homes

DAN REVETTO - AT&T

HENRY RODRIGUEZ - State Farm Insurance

LINDSAY SCHLICK - SchlickArt Video & Photography

CHRIS SCHRAGE - LBW Insurance Financial Services

ROCHELLE SILSBEE - Southern California Edison

DI THOMPSON - THOMPSON REALTY ADVISORS/eXp REALTY

DR. DIANNE VAN HOOK - College of the Canyons

DENNIS VERNER - Burrtec

KARINA WINKLER - Holiday Inn Express

BUSINESS COUNCILS

As the third largest city in Los Angeles County, the Santa Clarita Valley Chamber of Commerce represents over 65,000-member workforce. We realized we can better serve our business community by having six Business Councils, allowing members to work on issues specific to their area. Our Councils provide a channel for our members to be involved in solving problems, discussing issues, and implementing special projects and events for the benefit of the area being served. Participation offers members the opportunity to prioritize and bring a focus to the business needs of the area, and to take community leadership roles in addressing these needs. It can increase members’ business network, and provide stronger representation on area issues. Also, since area councils exist as industry-specific, participation provides an opportunity for area-specific networking with others doing business.

LATINO BUSINESS ALLIANCE

Our LBA council works to promote Latinoowned business as well as relevant issues facing our Latino business community. In addition the LBA helps to educate businesses on how to enhance a company’s business efforts with Latino customers and other Latinoowned businesses.

GOVERNMENT AFFAIRS

The Government Affairs council meets to discuss policy decisions on a local, county, state and federal level. As a member, you are encouraged to attend a meeting and have your voice heard throughout the SCV and take a stance on pertinent issues relative to the business community or your industry in particular.

SMALL BUSINESS

Small Businesses are at the core of our Chamber’s membership and are the backbone of our economy. The Chamber offers a variety of educational and networking programming to help your small business thrive. The council focuses on three main objectives: Advises the SCV Chamber on small business related issues, programming and networking opportunities; Supports the Chambe’s “Retail Walks” with elected officials; and helps promote the nationwide “Small Business Saturday” program which highlights small businesses on the Saturday after Thanksgiving.

BLACK BUSINESS COUNCIL

Our Black Business Council works to inspire, empower, and promote the economic growth and sustainability of black businesses, entrepreneurs, and professionals within the Santa Clarita Valley. In addition it serves as a catalyst for engagement, awareness building and consultation; eliminate barriers to opportunities and addresses issues unique to black owned businesses, professionals, and their families.

NON-PROFIT COUNCIL

The SCV has a strong philanthropic community with more than 100 locally-based nonprofit organizations that help our community thrive. Our non-profits are a key reason why Santa Clarita is a great community and always looking towards a better future. The council provides business resources for our local non-profit leaders to help them connect, grow and learn about valuable information so they can successfully meet their organizations mission and goals.

NEXTSCV

NextSCV is our next generation of leaders and the group aims to develop the next leaders of the Santa Clarita Valley through personal and professional development, civic engagement, and network building opportunities that ultimately stimulate local businesses and support the mission of the SCV Chamber.

UPCOMING EVENTS

Government Affairs Council

January 11 | 10:30 am

Join us to hear about what issues our business community are facing. Elected officials and their staff will give updates from federal, state and local offices. This is a great opportunity to hear what advocacy the Chamber is doing for you and also to find out how you can bring the issues you care about for us to assist you with. Our massive grassroots alliance is comprised of organizations locally and throughout the country who help strengthen our advocacy efforts and ensure our advocacy efforts are successful.

Email hello@scvchamber.com to find out how to attend or submit an issue you are facing.

Business After Hours Mixer at 24/7 Events

January 18 | 5:30 pm

It’s a new year full of new possibilities and opportunities. Join us at our first Business After Hours mixer of 2023 at 24/7 Events as more than 150 business representatives from across the Santa Clarita Valley join for an evening of networking. This is your opportunity to make new connections and catch up with friends.

InfluenceHER - The Power of Communication and Relationship Building

February 8 | 4 pm

To find out more information about these events or any other upcoming programming and to register go to:

www.SCVChamber.com/Events

Celebrating SCV Businesses

From celebrating new businesses opening or marking special occasions and achievements, we continue to be honored being part of your celebrations.

We encourage everyone to come and support our new businesses. All our grand opening/ribbon cuttings are free and open to everyone to attend.

Congratulations to Goodwill Southern California on your grand opening and celebration in December! Thank you to all that come to support them! Photo credit: Joie de Vivre Photographie

Please join us at these upcoming grand openings!

Do you have a grand opening or anniversary coming up? Email us at hello@scvchamber.com for details about hosting a ribbon cutting ceremony.

Triscenic Production Services

Triscenic Production Services, was formed as an alliance between a few DGA Stage Directors working at KCAL — TV9 in Los Angeles during the mid 1980’s. They discovered a viable need to store sets for the station. Taking a leap of faith, was the first member of the newly formed company to leave KCAL to advance and promote Triscenic on a fulltime basis. As their client base increased, Vince created an alpha-numeric system for organized set storage and transportation tracking. This system would become the standard for the industry. Eventually, the other team members departed KCAL to join Vince at their first warehouse facility, fulltime.

Vince developed, nurtured,

and secured relationships with key studio production contacts which led to providing services for Warner Bros. and Disney, among others. With impressive growth yearover-year and Triscenic becoming the industry leader in set storage and production logistics, the leap of faith has worked out better than anyone could have imagined.

Today, Vince has acquired 100% ownership of Triscenic. With a footprint of 1.5 million sq ft of dedicated production space, Triscenic provides full end-to-end production services for series, feature films, commercials, and music videos.

Services include Set Storage and Transportation, Sound Stages, Set Dec Lock-up

Triscenic President and CEO Vince Gervasi. PHOTOS COURTESY TRISCENIC

BY PERRY SMITH SCV Business Journal Editor

In addition to fewer listings on the market for over the same time last year, the Santa Clarita Valley real estate market saw the average list price dip ever so slightly for the month of November, according to data from the Southland Regional Association of Realtors.

There was also about a 48% reduction in the number of listings, compared to the figures for the same month last year.

The numbers for November, the most recent data available, indicate that there were 165 new listings for the market, compared to 316 for the same time last year. The median list price for November 2022 was $789,000, compared to $799,000 for November 2021.

The number of listings was also down compared to October 2022, which had 249 homes hit the market.

A number of factors play a role in the trend, according to the experts, who also noted that statewide, sales have declined for 15 straight months on a year-over-year basis, with last month being the third time in four months sales have dropped by nearly a third from the same time last year.

“With interest rates rising rapidly since the beginning of the year, buyers and sellers are having difficulties adapting to the market’s new ‘normal,’” said CAR President Otto Catrina in the organization’s monthly Real Estate Report. “As the market continues to evolve in the next 12 to 18 months, Realtors will be playing an ever-more important role as trusted advisers to guide their clients through the complicated buying and selling process and help them overcome their obstacles dur-

ing these challenging times.”

Craig Martin of the Craig Martin Realty Group noted the challenges seen by some this past year, but he anticipates the market correcting and returning to a “new normal” in 2023, albeit one with a little higher interest rate than a buyer might have been used to in recent years, especially the historically low rates seen during the pandemic.

In the short term, he used the example of a neighborhood in Canyon Country to explain the significant impact sellers were seeing from how the Feds’ interest rate hikes impacted the market.

“(During the summer), we had a three -bedroom home, 2,000 square feet in Canyon Country sold for $860,000. The one across the street ... we put their home on the market three months later, their home was 2,500 square feet, and we got them $765,000, and that took four months to close, and people just got scared,” he said.

Noting the market started to level off toward the end of the year, due in part to inventory, as well, he said, but he added that it’s hard to find a better long-term investment than the Santa Clarita Valley real estate market.

“And now we’re seeing people come back to the market, and I do think we’re headed in the right direction. I do think that’s because the Fed is starting to slow down (on the rate hikes),” he said.

“I think that by the time

we’re getting into January, February, March and April, we’re going to start seeing the market pick up a little bit.”

Local Realtor Bri Waterman-King said she’s optimistic about the direction the market is headed, but she’s still hearing frustration from homeowners who are disappointed that a home’s suggested list price is not matching what it would have been even four to six months prior.

Tee problem is, she said, that if you look at an appraiser’s valuation from about six months ago, you have to remember that interest rates were 2% lower at that time, meaning a buyer’s monthly payment could be as much as $1,500 more today than it would have been then for the

same home.

“And I have people literally offended that I’m telling them their house dropped by 10% in a year — and it has, but it’s not because the value is not there. It’s because the cost of money is more expensive,” she added.

In keeping things optimistic, she said she was hoping the Fed would leave the interest rate in the high 4’s or low 5’s to keep things stable. There were a number of hikes in 2022, which saw the rate hit its highest point in 15 years on Dec. 14, when it hit a target of between 4.25% and 4.5%.

“What I’m hoping for is a quote-unquote ‘normal market,’ where if we could just pick a rate and stay relatively steady,” Waterman-King said. “I think we’re gonna see housing prices stay pretty stable and maybe increase a bit as the statistics have some time to gain some actual momentum and hold some true value to their numbers.”

That might just come true, as the expected endpoint for rate hikes, or the “terminal rate,” was identified last week as being around 5.1%, according to the Federal Open Market Committee, although if the last few years have taught agents to rely on anything, it’s the potential for uncertainty.

Perry Smith: Coming Soon to a Theater Near You

Welcome to the newest addition to the SCV Business Journal, “Developing Stories.”

The Santa Clarita Valley Business Journal, which is owned by The Signal and a partner publication of the SCV Chamber of Commerce, frequently gets information from new businesses and developers who are excited to do business in Santa Clarita, which has gained a reputation beyond the city’s borders for being business-friendly.

And part of the process for any new location, of course, is getting all of the permits required and following all the rules and regulations that amount to the cost of doing business in California.

So whether a new business is just starting the application process at the city’s Online Permit Center, or maybe they just received approval from the city’s Permit Center at Suite 140 in City Hall, “Developing Stories” will look at some of the locations that will be a part of the SCV’s business landscape in the coming weeks, months and even years, depending on the scope of the project.

For some of the projects, this will be the first mention of them in the media, so the details may change once the work is complete, alas, the best laid plans .... But here’s a look at a few that are in the works.

Lights, Cameras, Action

In light of this being the film issue, there’s no more appropriate project to talk about for Developing Stories than Rye Canyon Studios.

The project, which just

gained approval from City Hall, will be big enough, when built out, to rival some of the SCV’s largest filming locations, according to city officials.

The project is being developed at the location that old-timers will know as Mann Biomedical Park, or maybe “that place where Taste of the Town used to be held,” or, more accurately, its more recent moniker of Southern California Innovation Park.

Owned by Dale Donahoe, the former Newhall Land and Farming executive and current CEO of his own company, Intertex General Contractors, Rye Canyon Studios Project received the green light from City Hall in November. Oxford Properties, which is owned by one of Canada’s largest pension funds, and Oceanic Partners, a venture capital firm, are listed as partners in the project.

One of the more impressive aspects of this job-generating future film facility is its proposed size. The plan calls for 28 new soundstages, which would increase the number citywide by about 50%, spread out over nine buildings that total up to about 725,000 square feet. That figure includes about a quarter-million square feet of office space and more than 470,000 square feet of sound stages.

The project includes a mixture of new surface parking and a parking structure to support the new studios, and the approved works would complete the build-out of the business park, which was first approved in 1999.

The studio will finish off what’s shaping up to be an eclectic gathering of busi-

nesses, with the massive project expected to have Advanced Bionics, the biomedical manufacturer, and Lucky Luke Brewing — which was formerly Wolf Creek Brewing — as neighbors.

Right now, the undeveloped portion of the project is slated for grading, with city officials alluding to a groundbreaking likely to take place early next year.

While the Rye Canyon Studios project has received the green light from City Council, another development expected early next year is the completed environmental review for another massive filming-related project, Shadowbox Studios. That facility is looking to develop more than 1 million square feet of property in an area known as the gateway to Placerita Canyon, in Newhall.

Once the environment impact review is completed for that project, which looks at all the effects a development could have on a surrounding area and how the developer proposes to mitigate them, then the project would first go before the Planning Commission, and then Santa Clarita City Council, for final approval.

Also Coming Soon

While job creation and tax revenue are important driv-

ers for the folks at City Hall, almost everyone gets excited at the prospect of a new restaurant — which are always among our most shared stories on social media.

Coming soon to the Skyline Ranch development, a Japanese food spot known as Hanasaki Sushi is looking to build a location near the intersection of Skyline Ranch Drive and Plum Canyon Road in Saugus.

Permits have also been issued recently for the Tourney Plaza Surgery Center, which will be located at the Tourney Medical Plaza at 27420 Tourney Road. The facility is likely to be a facility for outpatient procedures.

There are also two locations right next to each other expected to come online next year in the relatively new Vista Canyon Park, the transit-friendly, mixed-use development in Canyon Country: Street Corner Urban Market will be a convenience storetype location at 27651 Lincoln Place, in Suite 140, and C&A Cafe & Creamery, is slated for the same address in Suite No. 150.

Management Versus Leadership

BY PAUL BUTLER SCVBJ Contributing Writer

We’re living in a time when people are attempting to change the meaning of long-held beliefs about what a word actually means. This caused me to consider two words which I am hearing increasing confusion on — management and leadership. Is management the same as leadership? Can the terms be used interchangeably?

A simple Google search causes confusion as they define management as: “the process of dealing with or controlling things or people.” It then gives an example of managing a herd of elks. Therein lies the problem — people aren’t elks. Google states that leadership is: “the action of leading a group of people or an organization.” I’m good with their definition of leadership.

I believe the Merriam-Webster dictionary definition aligns more with my experience and observations. Webster states that management is: “the conducting or supervising of something (such as a business)” and they define leadership in the same way Google does.

I’m a simple man from simple middleEngland and I like to simplify the seemingly complex. I believe the difference between management and leadership can be summarized in four words — manage things, lead people.

A HVAC system needs to be managed. A process or procedure needs to be managed. A budget needs to be managed. But the thing with things is they don’t think. When we’re dealing with human beings, we have to remind ourselves they’re four-dimensional — the body, the heart, the mind and the soul/spirit. People are open to being led if they trust us. Trust is the commodity that binds people together.

Trust is easy to say and hard to do. Trust is character, (who you are) and competence, (what you do). If you’re a good person and good at what you do, people are open to your influence. You may have implicit, informal influence or you may have explicit, formal influence

because of your job title.

The late great coach John Wooden summarized his style of leadership well when he said, “I’d rather be out front with a banner than behind with a whip.” Coach makes a profound point there — managing people can be exhausting. If we’re constantly having to harass, cajole, monitor and persuade people, it can wear out our own engine.

Management is an industrial-age term — when the primary asset value of an organization was machines and capital. Human beings were necessary but dispensable. You perform, you get the carrot. You don’t perform, you get the stick.

We’re now living in what’s called the “knowledge-worker” age when people have much freer agency to take their talents wherever they feel most appreciated and where they can earn the highest rate of return for putting their proverbial shoulder to the plow. There is now a war for talent simply because the primary asset value of organizations has shifted to the people. It’s someone’s passion for their work, (the heart); their ideas, (the mind) and the desire to leave a legacy and make a difference in the world, (the spirit/soul) that is widening the gap between superior and mediocre regardless of entity-type.

Another way of looking at the difference between the two is that management appears to me to be more about

control, whereas leadership is more about release. In leading others, we still hold people accountable in the ways agreed but we become more of a coach from the sidelines than a control-freak watching every move. People don’t like to be managed and they most certainly don’t want to be controlled.

I encourage you to take great care if you have formal explicit authority over people and you try to manage rather than lead. I’ve seen people exhaust themselves. I’ve seen workplace cultures become sub-optimal and I’ve observed organizations lack creativity and innovation in a rapidly changing industry because people are afraid of upsetting the boss.

As we head into a new year, I encourage you to keep it simple: manage things and lead people. Focus on being a person of high character and high competence. Use your explicit, formal authority to clear the path so that talented people can unleash their potential to the benefit of your customers, your colleagues, your investors and their careers.

Paul Butler is a Santa Clarita resident and a client partner with Newleaf Training and Development of Valencia. For questions or comments, email Butler at paul.butler@newleaftd.com.

Economic DEvElopmEnt corporation

26455 Rockwell Canyon Road | UCEN 263 | Santa Clarita, CA 91355 | (661) 288-4400 | www.scvedc.org

BY HOLLY SCHROEDER

President and CEO of the Santa Clarita Valley Economic Development Corp.

The Santa Clarita Valley Economic Development Corporation’s (SCVEDC) overarching goals are to support the creation of high-paying jobs for our trained workforce, stimulate economic activity that grows the regional tax base, and strategically position the Santa Clarita Valley (SCV) and its businesses to better compete in the global economy. SCVEDC offers many services and resources to local businesses to help the access tax credits and incentives, workforce development and training, provides vital data and information, and connects companies for networking and peer support.

Here are just a few of the programs SCVEDC offers to support local businesses:

LiveWorkSCV.com

LiveWorkSCV.com is a comprehensive, highly visible job board that matches SCV career opportunities with SCV residents who want a job closer to home. Employers can post jobs, search for qualified professionals, or become a “featured employer.”

Job seekers can search for jobs, create a profile on LiveWorkSCV.com, and sign

Econo Watch

up to receive job alerts when employers post a position that matches their qualifications.

This is a free resource open to SCV employers and residents. Learn more: www. LiveWorkSCV.com

ADF

The Aerospace & Defense Forum, with seven other chapters located across Southern California, Arizona and Texas, is a membership-based leadership community that provides opportunities for sharing of information, current events, and analysis, mutual support and encouragement, partnering, innovation, and performance breakthroughs.

The Santa Clarita Valley Chapter meets monthly with informative presentations, panel discussions, and networking opportunities. Learn more: www.scvedc. org/aerospace-defense

Supplier Matching Program

In collaboration with our partner, CMTC, the Supplier Scouting and Matching Program is now available to all California manufacturers. CMTC’s supply chain experts have matched companies with capacity to those in need and have solved the most unique problems for manufacturers, such as finding packaging for niche products, tubing for electronics products, PPE equipment for medical organizations, and even special

solid state motors for renewable energy companies. Whether you need assistance in addressing supply chain disruptions, or need help filling your extra manufacturing capacity, register your company for Supplier Scouting and Matching services. Learn more: www.scvedc.org/ supplier-matching-program

SCV Means Business Podcast

The Santa Clarita Valley is home to businesses across a number of diverse industries, many of which chose this location to address a few common needs that arise for any growing company. In our podcast, Holly Schroeder, President and CEO of SCVEDC, interviews leaders of these great companies who are making a difference in the Santa Clarita Valley. Tune in: www.scvedc.org/podcast Economic Outlook Forecast

Each year SCVEDC compiles a research book with information vital to your business. The Economic Outlook Forecast features information and data that will help business leaders prepare for both the short term and the long term. Economic forecasts are important for companies that need to have a picture of what the economic trends will be and how that will affect the decisions they make. An updated outlook book can be downloaded here: www.scvedc.org/out look.

Santa Clarita Valley Q3 2022 Q2 2022 Q3 2022 Sq Ft

Commercial Vacancy Rates

Office Space 20.37% 18.95% 2,882,170

Industrial Space 1.30% 1.40% 25,327,073

Total Marked Sq. Ft. Vacancy Percentage: 28,209,243

Office Space - as a % of Vacancy 10.22% 9.97% N/A

Industrial Space - as a % of Vacancy 89.78% 90.03% N/A

Building Permits Nov ’22 Oct ‘22 Nov ’21

New Commercial/Industrial Building Permits 6 2 0

Commercial Tenent Improvements/Alterations 35 21 20

Unemployment Rates Nov ’22 Oct ‘22 % Change

Santa Clarita 4.0% 3.9% 2.56%

Palmdale

6.4% 6.4% 0.00%

Lancaster 6.7% 6.6% 1.52%

Glendale 4.4% 4.3% 2.33%

Los Angeles County 4.5% 4.5% 0.00%

State 4.1% 1.0% 2.50%

Housing Stats Nov ’22 Oct ‘22 Nov ’21

SCV Average Home Price 752,900 754,200 839,400

SCV Average Condo Price 508,100 550,500 514,000

SCV Home Sales 3,111 2,932 2,732

SCV Condo Sales 888 840 1,041

SCV Avg. # of Days on Market (SF) 43 34 190

SCV Single Family Home Inventory 509 600 183

SCVEDC is Your One-Stop Resource for Business Needs in 2023

OLD TOWN

in 1914, according to the restaurant’s website, after Swall’s landlord, Wiliam Mayhue, raised the rent on his general store.

A number of other business owners at the time followed Swall’s lead, and Spruce Street became the Main Street that we know of today. In order to catch as much as the foot traffic as possible from the nearby Railroad Avenue train station that was by his old location, Swall built am oversized “Drugs” sign to help advertise his wears.

The façade was damaged in the 1971 earthquake, and the occupants have changed over the years,but the location has been home to one of Santa Clarita’s most popular restaurant options since its grand

opening in 2018.

“The reason for that is you really have to respect someone who’s an entrepreneur in California,” said Wilk. Being an entrepreneur in California can provide unique challenges because of the high taxes and excessive regulation that small businesses face, he added.

“This incredible establishment here, which is really in my opinion, is the anchor of Old Town Newhall,” Wilk said.

When asked what influences his culinary choices at the restaurant, where the menu includes everything from a 40 oz hand cut prime tomahawk steak to chilean seabass to a Maple Leaf Farms duck breast, Otto said “sustainability, learning and growing with the trends and staying passionate and creative.”

His goal for customer is to create “seasonal cuisine, keeping people’s pallets guessing,” and creating an experience and not staying stagnant.”

Otto and the Old Town Junction team have supported the Santa Clarita community in many ways, he said during his recognition. They have worked and contributed to College of the Canyons Foundation, Carousel Ranch, Circle of Hope, Wish Foundation, SCV Charity Chili Cook-Off and Feed SCV.

“When you think of somebody who partners with our nonprofit community, I can’t think of anyone who has been a better partner than Chef Otto,” said Wilk.

In addition to Wilk, Santa Clarita City Council members Laurene Weste and Bill Miran-

da, a representative for Congressman Mike Garcia and a representative for county Supervisor Kathryn Barger were in attendance and presented certificates of recognition.

“I love Chef Otto’s food, I love the restaurant,” Weste said to Otto, “I am so proud of you.”

The List: Movie Studios and Sound Stages

Agua Dulce Movie Ranch William Fix 34855 Petersen Road, Agua Dulce 91390 www.sosfilmworks.com 348 acres

Blue Cloud Movie Ranch Frank Gardner 20019 Blue Cloud Rd. Santa Clarita 91350 (661) 510-6873 bluecloud.com 250 acres. *Movie Ranch Overlay Zone Property

Castaic Film Ranch Mike Ryan info@castaicfilmranch.com • (661) 952-7707 castaicfilmranch.com 97 acres

Diamond V Ranch Marcel Veluzat 28100 Haskell Canyon Rd Santa Clarita 91322 (661) 212-8047 veluzat.com 50 acres. *Movie Ranch Overlay Zone Property

Firebird Film Locale Michelle Goertz 9744 Soledad Canyon Road Agua Dulce 91390 (661) 268-1500 facebook.com/FirebirdFilmLocale 3 acres

Golden Oak Ranch Steve Sligh 19802 Placerita Canyon Rd. Newhall 91321 (661) 259-8717 goldenoakranch.com 890 acres, 12 proposed stages for a total of 240,000 sq ft

LA North Studios John Prabhu, Anthony Syracuse 25045 Ave Tibbitts Valencia 91355 (661) 568-6410 lanorthstudios.com 16 stages for a total of about 500,000 sq ft

Melody Ranch Motion Picture Studio Candy Veluzat 24715 Oak Creek Ave. Newhall 91321 (661) 259-9669 melodyranchstudio.com 22 acres, 3 stages for a total 41,200 sq ft Placerita Canyon Special Standards District, Overlay Zone Property. No city film permit required

Polsa Rosa Ranch Margie Vodraska 5726 Soledad Canyon Rd. Acton 93510 (805) 368-9029 polsarosaranch.com 750 acres

Rancho Deluxe Steve Arklin, Jr. 16030 Placerita Canyon Rd. Santa Clarita 91387 (661) 733-5739 aranchodeluxe.com 200 acres. *Movie Ranch Overlay Zone Property

Rustic Oaks Ranch Mike Stuart 23708 La Salle Canyon Rd. Santa Clarita 91321 (661) 510-0712 rusticoaksranch.com 42 acres

Sable Ranch/Rancho Maria Derek Hunt 25933 Sand Canyon Rd. Canyon Country 91387 (661) 252-9751

ranchomariasable.com 400 acres. *Movie Ranch Overlay Zone Properties

Santa Clarita Studios Mike DeLorenzo 25135 Anza Dr. Santa Clarita 91355 (661) 294-2000 sc-studios.com 33 stages with more than 500,000 sq ft

Triscenic Production Services Vince Gervasi 27615 Avenue Hopkins, Santa Clarita 91355 triscenic.com 7 sound stages, more than 135,000 sq ft

Valencia Studios Candice Bieber 26030 Avenue Hall Santa Clarita 91355 (513) 702-5110 valenciastudios.com 6 stages for a total of 73,500 sq ft

2023 – It’s time to evolve!

By David Cantrell, Chairman of the Board

We have all been through many changes in the last two years, the way we live our lives is different, and the way we do business has definitely changed. We at VIA understand that, but there is one thing in business that has not changed and that is, people do business with people they like. We think it is time to bring back additional social parts of business.

You will see some changes to our events and programs in 2023, as we

work to allow for new social components. We will, of course, still continue with VIA’s signature programs such as the luncheons (most likely quarterly in 2023), Connecting to Success, CEO Forum, and the VIA BASH, but we’re hoping to see all of you more frequently in 2023 – please join us!

We have said this before and we will say it again, this is YOUR organization, so if you have a question, would like help connecting with someone, or just want meet great people, please reach out to our office or any of our board of directors. We are happy to help!

Valley Industry Association 2023 Board of Directors Installed December 13!

The Valley Industry Association was pleased to formally install their 2023 Board of Directors on Tuesday, December 13. Senator Scott Wilk, 21st District, joined VIA as the swearing in agent making sure each board member took their formal oath of office. The Senator also shared some updates and stories from Sacramento.

VIA’s 2023 Board of Directors includes individuals who have been with us for several years, and the organization is very pleased David Cantrell of American Family Funding has chosen to take on a second year as Chairman in 2023. As well, some new members were added that bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to the Board and we look forward to working together for the betterment of the organization and our membership.

Additionally, VIA is pleased to continue our education efforts. Our acclaimed Connecting to Success Program will celebrate its

UPCOMING EVENTS

JAN VIA After Five Networking Mixer

5:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.

Salt Creek Grille | Patio 24415 Town Center Dr Valencia, CA 91355

20th year of service in 2023, having trained 35,000 + students over the year. CTS is expected to grow dramatically in 2023. That, in conjunction with our partnerships with the William S. Hart Union High School District and College of the Canyons will provide our valley with a steady supply of well-trained workers entering the workforce.

We are excited to begin the new year and there is much on the horizon for 2023. Stay tuned!

David Cantrell

American Family Funding CHAIRMAN OF THE BOARD

Hillary Broadwater QM Design Group

IMMEDIATE PAST CHAIR

Ed Masterson

Michael Elliott & Associates VICE CHAIR WORKFORCE & BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT

Kim

Justin

Kathie

Jill

Nola

Teresa Todd Point of View Communications

Omar Torres College of the Canyons

Monica

Beau

J.C.

Laura

Maria Vartanian

Henry Mayo Newhall Hospital

Steve Youlios Jersey Mike’s Subs

Mark Young Donahoe, Young & Williams, LLP

Santa Clarita Stock Average

Below you will find a list of local Santa Clarita-based or prominent Santa Clarita companies used for our averages. Each month we will take the average of all these stocks and show that number. Tracking that number from month to month will give you a window of how our local company’s stocks are performing. Last month the index was 3,127.89 and the average price per share was $104.26. This month the index is 2979.69 down 148.20 or 4.7% for an average share price of $99.32.

Company industry ticker NOVEMBER 30 DECEMBER 29

Amazon Retail

Bank of Southern California Banking

Bioventus Biomedical

NASDAQ: AMZN 94.34  84.88

OTC: BCAL 16.70  16.70

Nasdaq: BVS 2.39  2.52

Boston Scientific Biomedical NYSE: BSX 44.22  46.42

California Resources Corp. Energy

NYSE: CRC 46.46  43.68

Carnival Corp. Entertainment/leisure NYSE: CCL 9.79  7.83

CBRE Commercial real estate NYSE: CBRE 77.33  76.77

Costco Retail NASDAQ: COST 535.00  462.34

Disney Entertainment media NYSE: DIS 99.67  87.38

Five Point Holdings Home developer NYSE: FPH 2.13  2.01

IQVIA holdings Laboratory services NYSE: IQV 219.43  204.33

ITT inc. Aerospace/manufacturing NYSE: ITT 84.52  81.04

KB Homes Home developer NYSE: KBH 30.79  32.06

Otsuka Pharmaceutical Pharmaceutical

OTCMKTS: OTSKY 17.01  16.52

Quest Diagnostics Laboratory services NYSE: DGX 148.02  157.51

Six Flags Entertainment/leisure NYSE: SIX 22.48  23.07

Sodexo

Home/food services

OTCMKTS: SDXAY 18.88  19.23

Sonova Holdings Biomedical equipment OTCMKTS: SONVY 52.87  46.58

Tri Pointe Homes Home developer NYSE: TPH 18.32  18.72

Walmart Retail NYSE: WMT 152.26  144.10

Woodward Aerospace/Manufacturing

Auto Nation Auto Dealers

NASDAQ: WWD 98.16  95.05

NY: AN 120.70  107.50

Boeing Aerospace NY: BA 177.65  191.46

Comcast Communications NY: CMCSA 35.84  35.05

Home Depot Retail NY: HD 327.94  319.86 Kohl's Retail NY: KSS 32.25  25.29

Lennar Home Builder NY: LEN 86.54  90.50

Lowes Retail NY: LOW 211.00  203.15

McDonalds Restaurants

NY: MCD 274.60  267.54

Textron Industrial NY: TXT 71.04  70.62

STUDIOS

or 30-mile zone, an area stretching out from Beverly and La Cienega boulevards that offers incentives and tax breaks for productions.

In addition to the movie ranches that have played a huge part in Santa Clarita’s past and continue to shape its future, the city’s Film Office acts as an agency that balances the needs of production with the needs of its residents.

With help from the Santa Clarita Film Office, the city’s revenue from filming has grown from about $6.3 million in 2003 to almost $44 million in the fiscal year that ended in July.

Santa Clarita officials are proud of the city’s film-friendly reputation, which currently supports 57 soundstages, five production facilities (including several with multiple campuses) and a half-dozen movie ranches.

A common saying with the team at the Santa Clarita Film Office is, if a project looks like it was filmed in Santa Clarita, it was probably filmed in Santa Clarita, said Evan Thomason, economic development

associate for the city Film Office.

“Well, episodic television and streaming service is, I would say, something that’s always been our bread and butter, that is going very strong,” Thomason said. “But with LA North expanding and some other studios getting more feature films — and that’s something that we’ve always had, feature films — but they’re bringing a lot more of that because that’s really what their specialty is, the high-end feature film.”

The city’s business-development team is also quick to point out the success of production companies like LA North, as well as the high number of city residents who also work in the industry, help the city attract more projects that have a significant positive impact in the area.

“The entertainment industry has been on a tremendous growth plan with all of the additional streaming services,” DeLorenzo said. “We have been booked for the last, give or take, 10 years, we’ve grown and grown. We now have 35 soundstages.”

DeLorenzo considers himself a big Santa Clarita supporter, because, after having worked in New York, Chicago and anywhere else, nothing really compares

to what he sees in the SCV.

“We have, by far, and I can back this up, the best services definitely in the United States, probably the world. The infrastructure that Southern California offers the filmmaker allows us to compete with these additional tax benefits that other states offer where we may not offer the best tax incentives. We offer the best filmmakers in the world. And Santa Clarita stands out as being the most film-friendly city you’ll find anywhere. And when I say anywhere, I mean that sincerely.” 

Mark Larinto (left) stands next to his son, Tyler Larinto, as both lean against the helicopter used in “Black Hawk Down” one of the many pieces of Hollywood memorabilia the company stores in its warehouses.

Rancho Deluxe Studios Spans More Than 300 Acres

Located in the city of Santa Clarita, California, Rancho Deluxe is an approved production facility set within the 30-mile studio zone of Hollywood, in the naturally scenic Placerita Canyon area of Santa Clarita.

Our sprawling movie ranch spans over 300 acres of natural terrain, with plenty of space for multiple on-site productions and base camps.

In addition to the natural landscape, our property is home to multiple shoot houses, water features, and a variety of interior and exterior sets including our Western Town, Log Cabin camp, and Mediterranean Villa. Some of our newest settings include a Military Base, and Palace Saloon.

With more than 20 years of entertainment industry experience, our management staff understands the unique needs of film production and can assist with every aspect of accommodating film crews and acquiring local resources needed to

Santa Clarita Studios is the Perfect Home for Any Size Production

Opened in 1987, Santa Clarita Studios is the only purpose build Studio in Santa Clarita.

Santa Clarita Studios proudly offers over one million square feet of production space including 35 stages ranging from 6,000 square feet to 80,000 square feet and offering 3 separate in-ground pits/swimming pools on stage.

With over 300,000 square feet of production support space, Santa Clarita Studios is the perfect home for any size production.

A full-service, independent studio, Santa Clarita Studios helps save your production time and money by offering the industry’s newest lighting and grip equipment warehoused on-site.

Santa Clarita Studios also recently unveiled a multimillion-dollar renovation of

their Downtown Backlot, now featuring 40-foot facades, multiple streets, several inte-

riors, and an alleyway. With unparalleled, dedicated production service and experi-

ence, Santa Clarita Studios is the perfect home for your next production!

complete all types of filmed projects — from television series, feature films and

shorts, music videos, photo shoots, reality shows and commercials. 

TRISCENIC

Rooms, Mill/SFX-Space, Production Offices, Production Parking, and Set Recycling & Disposal Services.

Set Storage & Transportation

Our workforce consists of Local 399 drivers and Local 80 grips. With over 40 lowboy

trailers, the daily capacity to move sets from storage-tostage and stage-to-storage is unrivaled. Oversize set pieces and wide loads also fall into our purview. We handle pointto-point delivery including all required permits, CHP escort, transport and of course, storage.

Sound Stages

Seven (7) Sound Stages ranging from 15,000 sq ft to 28,000 sq ft. Stages include 60-ton or 100-ton A/C units. 1 Gb internet WIFI/ethernet connectivity, 3,000-amp power, bell & redlight system, full width lighting pipe grid, parking for 90 included with each stage, with additional parking available.

Recycling & Disposal Services

Our 40-yard roll-off container services are the benchmark for production services. 80% of our tickets are completed same day with the remainder serviced next day. Our trucks and containers are new, and extremely clean (not an eye-sore at any studio lot or location).

Production Offices, MillSpace, Lock-up Rooms,

Parking

Our production offices, millspace, parking, and Lock-up Rooms are strategically located to support production at our Sound Stages. Short term or long term arrangements are available.

Over the past 36 years, we have developed life-long relationships, expanded into other areas based on our client’s needs. We work with most major studios, streaming platforms, production companies, and many commercial and creative agencies. Our short-term agreements allow maximum flexibility with our clients and works well with their budgets. With the film industry thriving in the SCV, being able to work and live in one of the safest and friendliest cities in America, is a true blessing. 

Tax-Saving Month On Your Primary Home With a New Wrinkle

BY JEFF PRANG Los Angeles County Assessor

This month, I want to take a moment of your time to visit about a property tax savings program my office offers that’s just waiting to reduce your budget. Moreover, I am going to be advocating for an increase in this taxsavings program.

I’m speaking about the Homeowners’ Exemption that has been available since 1974, which automatically reduces your tax burden by $7,000, if the home is your primary residence as of Jan. 1. That translates to an actual reduction of $70 to a homeowners’ tax bill. It’s not much and in dire need of an increase, but it is a savings, and who doesn’t want to save just a little more money.

Let’s say hypothetically, the assessed value savings was to increase modestly to $20,000. That translates to an actual savings of $200. Since the whole point of the Homeowners’ Exemption is to encourage home ownership in the state, it should at the very least keep up with the rising costs of homes. In 1972, the median home price in California was about $34,500, where now home prices come in about $790,000 statewide, according to the latest figures from the California Assn. of Realtors.

For now, to get the existing savings, all the homeowner has to do is fill out the application at assessor.lacounty.gov/exemptions/homeownersexemption and they are good to go. The deadline is Feb. 15 to get the entire savings, but if you miss the deadline, please file anyway and you will get it prorated this year and the full amount the following years. Homeowners need only apply once in order to receive these savings each year. The savings continue until a change (such as a sale) is recorded.

However, nearly one-in-three homeowners in Los Angeles County do not take advantage of this tax savings’ program, leaving $30 million unclaimed

Nearly one-in-three homeowners in Los Angeles County do not take advantage of this tax savings’ program, leaving $30 million unclaimed each year.

each year. Across the County, an additional 435,000 families can be saving on their tax bills.

The Homeowners’ Exemption is even more important now than ever before because of Proposition 19. Prop. 19 changes the rules that apply to transfers between parents and children and grandparents to grandchildren. It mandates that any property not being used as the primary residence will not be eligible for the transfer of the existing lower tax rate.

Furthermore, the parent-owner of the home that is going to be left to the children should have the Homeowners’ Exemption at the time of the transfer. The child receiving the home does have one year from the date of transfer to acquire the Homeowners’ Exemption. If the home does not have the Homeowners’ Exemption, the children will not receive the tax benefit, and they could get stuck with a huge property tax increase.

In any event, I encourage the state legislature to study the matter and increase the Homeowners’ Exemption, even modestly. At the very least, it needs to have a clause that guarantees it keeps pace with inflation.

Our new and improved website will be continuously updated to provide general information on all important changes in the law as well as other vital data that

may assist taxpayers. For more information on the Homeowners’ Exemption or other tax savings programs, visit assessor.lacounty.gov or call 213-974-3211.

Los Angeles County Assessor Jeff Prang has been in office since 2014. Upon taking office, Prang implemented sweeping reforms to ensure that the strictest ethical guidelines rooted in fairness, accuracy and integrity would be adhered to in his office, which is the largest office of its kind in the nation with 1,300 employees and provides the foundation for a property tax system that generates $17 billion annually