The VIA CEO Forum is set to take place on August 23 at the Hyatt Regency Valencia. This prestigious event has long been supported by the Santa Clarita Valley’s top executives, fostering a tradition of collaboration and innovation. Since its inception, the VIA CEO Forum has evolved into a cornerstone event, where the community’s leading business minds come together to discuss pressing issues and develop actionable solutions. Join us for this year’s forum and be part of a dynamic exchange of ideas and strategies. The collective efforts of VIA members and local business leaders have consistently yielded impactful results, driving growth and success in our region. Don’t miss this opportunity to engage with peers, share insights, and contribute to the ongoing prosperity of the Santa Clarita Valley business community.
Call for facilitators!
Join the Valley Industry Association (VIA) and the VIA Education Foundation in making a significant impact on the next generation of professionals through the VIA Connecting to Success Program. This highly regarded workforce readiness program, now celebrating its 21st year, offers invaluable lessons in communication, decision-making, financial literacy, banking, credit, workplace ethics, and more.
As a local business leader, your experience and knowledge are crucial to guiding and mentoring high school students, preparing them for successful careers and enhancing the overall workforce of the Santa Clarita Valley (SCV).
Event Dates:
September 6, September 20, October 25, November 8 and November 15. By becoming a Facilitator, you have the opportunity to:
• Make a lasting difference in students’ lives.
• Share your expertise and insights.
• Help shape the future workforce of SCV. Don’t miss this chance to contribute to the community and inspire the leaders of tomorrow. To get involved, contact Kathy Norris at (661) 294-8088 or kathy@via.org. Together, we can ensure a brighter future for our students and our community!
October 18, 2024 | VIA BASH
Ready to dive into a world of color and celebration? VIA BASH 2024 is gearing up to be the highlight of the year! Mark your calendars for October 18, 2024, and get ready for an explosion of excitement. Tickets and Sponsorships are now available.
VIA was honored to host Senator Scott Wilk at their sold out Cocktails & Conversation event on June 20.
The Two Lists You Need To Put On Paper
BY KEN KELLER SCVBJ Contributing Writer
Idon’t do it as often as I should, but one of my favorite coaching tools is asking thought-provoking questions of my clients.
Doing research I ran across a question asked by the co-founder of Intel, Andy Grove: “If the current CEO were kicked out of the company, what would the new CEO do?”
This is a highly appropriate question because every four years we decide who will be the CEO of America, also known as the president. We fired one in 2020 and he wants his old job back. The incumbent would like to keep the job for an additional four more years.
Now in business, not in government, I am sure that the correct answer by the new CEO would be to create three lists. The first list would contain all the things that the leader should continue doing. The second list, probably longer in length, would be a list of items to start doing. The third list might actually be pretty short, and it would be the list that the new CEO would create that listed the things that he or she would stop doing.
I’ve been having my clients create their “stop, start and stay” lists for decades. We laminate them on index cards to remind them of their commitments.
However, Peter Drucker, the management guru, was quoted as saying, “Your first and foremost job as a leader is to take charge of your own energy and then help to orchestrate the energy of those around you.”
For this to happen, the leader has to first eliminate and lose the source of negative energy. This can be accomplished by making two lists, hence the title of the article. The first is the “stop doing list”, and the second is a “never start” list.
These two lists are so powerful they should become part of the annual planning process for both your company and for your management team. Here are some thoughts to help jump start your thinking as you create your lists.
1. Stop tolerating mediocre perfor-
What items would you put on your checklist?
mance from people that belong on someone else’s payroll.
2. Stop putting off difficult conversations about the performance of people.
3. Quit making every decision. If you don’t trust people to make the right decisions for the company, you have another, bigger issue to deal with.
4. Stop having meetings without purpose.
5. Stop thinking that all clients are the same; some are more valuable than others.
6. Never start thinking that your company’s current good health will continue without change into the future.
7. Never start thinking that your employees don’t know what is taking place in the company; in some instances they may know far more than you do.
8. Stop believing that all your managers are managing; some of them aren’t.
9. Never start interfering with policies and procedures you approved to help you run the company better.
10. Never make people decisions based on whether or not you like someone; make decisions about how well or not they are doing the job they
are on the payroll to do.
11. Never start thinking your industry has the best way, or the only way, to do things.
12. Stop under hiring and over hiring. Hire for what you need.
13. Never start thinking that your being in the office at your desk is where the business is actually managed because in reality you are too far removed from the clients to see what is taking place.
14. Never start your day without making a short list of results you want to achieve.
15. Stop thinking your current attorney and CPA are the best in their field.
16. Never think for a minute that because you have had a successful business for years suggests you will have one just like it in the future.
17. Stop trying to be perfect and don’t push that belief on others; good enough usually works.
18. Never believe that people don’t want or need feedback.
19. Never believe that a person is costing you money while on your payroll; if it is not an investment in the future of your company, what is it? I hope that this has been a good exercise for you.
Chemical vs. Mineral Sunscreens: What to Consider
TPatrick Moody
Henry Mayo Newhall Hospital
he sunscreen aisle is full of options, and that’s a good thing. Sunscreen protects your skin from ultraviolet (UV) radiation, which can cause skin cancer and other skin problems, including wrinkles and age spots. But with all those choices, how do you choose?
UNDERSTAND YOUR OPTIONS
There are two basic types of sunscreen — chemical and mineral — available, although some products contain both. While any sunscreen labeled broad-spectrum offers protection from both UVA and UVB rays, mineral and chemical sunscreens do work differently.
Chemical sunscreens, also called organic sunscreens, use active ingredients such as oxybenzone, avobenzone, homosalate, octinoxate, octisalate and octocrylene. These form a protective layer on the skin, absorbing harmful UV rays and converting them into heat. That layer takes time to become fully effective — which is why it’s best to apply sunscreen at least 15 minutes before heading outside.
Mineral sunscreens are also called physical sunscreens. That’s because their active ingredients are minerals — titanium dioxide, zinc oxide or both — which stay on the surface of the skin and deflect the sun’s rays. Like chemical sunscreens, they also form a protective layer on the skin.
PROS AND CONS
At this point, you might be wondering which type of sunscreen is best for you. The short answer is: the type you’ll use day in and day out. Other considerations include: Skin benefits. For people with sensitive skin, mineral sunscreens may be a better option, says the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD). Avoiding products with added fragrances may help too. But options abound: Some products are oil-free, while others moisturize dry skin. Still others are specially formulated for sensitive skin. Think about your skin’s needs. Cream, gel, stick or spray? Take your pick. Whether you choose a chemical or a physical sunscreen product, choose one with an SPF of 30 or higher and follow these guidelines to help protect your skin from harmful ultraviolet rays:
APPLY EVERY DAY
Sunscreen only does the trick if you use it properly. So the next time you slather on the
sunscreen (something experts recommend you do every day), check the directions. In general, you’ll need to:
Use around an ounce of sunscreen to cover exposed areas. That’s about the amount that would fill a shot glass.
Apply sunscreen about 15 minutes before heading outdoors. That gives it time to take effect.
Reapply about every two hours.
Pay attention to coverage on those out-ofthe-way areas: ears, backs of knees, tops of feet and the top of your head if your scalp shows.
While the sun may be elusive on some days, UV rays are always present. Keep using sunscreen even on days that are overcast or cool. Even on cloudy days, up to 80% of UV rays can still penetrate skin, according to the American Academy of Dermatology.
Clock Towers, Swap Meets and New Stops
PERRY SMITH
Developing Stories
While local schools might be on summer vacation this month, the city of Santa Clarita’s Planning Division stayed busy with a handful of approvals and upcoming projects being discussed for the city.
Back when Newhall Crossings first opened in 2020, 24480 Main Street was a Rustic Burger, and then Spruce & Oak. Now it’s slated to become a restaurant capitalizing on two of the fastest-growing trends in the SCV.
Gold Coast Sushi and Ramen is slated for the busy Main Street locale, at the corner , which is welcome news for city officials who have spent years and millions of dollars to redevelop Downtown Newhall.
Gold Coast does not appear to be a chain. The owner of the location was not immediately reachable.
Seeing a number of new entries to the local coffee scene with Makenna’s and Philz on the west side, a growing Havana Savannah contingent and, most recently, On Ice Beverages at the pop-up spot in The SCV Hub, Starbucks, apparently, is responding.
After taking the time to restore the clock tower to working order for a location at one of the SCV’s busiest intersections (Whites and Soledad canyon roads), Starbucks also told the city it was planning “remodeling jobs” for two of its locations: One of the locations is on Sierra Highway, near the Costco at Via Princessa; the other locations is at Lyons Avenue and Orchard Village Road.
The clock tower issue was featured in a pair of Signal stories and drew the property owner a code enforcement violation as it had been incorrect for months. The property owner had agreed to maintain the clock tower as a condition of its approval, according to the city.
Valencia Town Center is slated to receive several new locations, based on the applications approved by the city of Santa Clarita planners recently.
A new Mrs. Fields Cookies location is being planned for a kiosk at the mall, and at another location, there will be a new smoothiejuice bar-ice cream parlor called Thursday Cactus. Also slated for Valencia Town Center, a new sauna called Perspire, which is going into 24268 Valencia Blvd.
Speaking of mall plans, by August, the city
of Santa Clarita is expected to have plans approved for its framework for the Valencia Town Center.
Ahead of Centennial’s purchase of the mall last year, the city created a plan intended to guide a redevelopment of the area, hoping to have the mall’s revisioning appear similar to The Irvine Spectrum Center — a place that balances an attraction aspect, with shopping, work space and residential units created in balance.
Centennial has not announced any of its plans for the 111-acre lot, but the city’s proposal calls for a little more than 2,000 units, with 20% of them encouraged to be affordable housing. The new mall would have more than 600,000 square feet of commercial space under the city’s proposal, according to planners.
The Dallas-based national real estate owner-developer-operator has said it will share its plans for the property once the city is finished with its approvals for the Town Center Area Plan.
Also coming later this month is a discussion that could spell the end for the Saugus Swap Meet. Integral Communities is planning a housing development on the property that’s expected to be a mixed-use development also including a large industrial warehouse component.
Both housing and industrial warehouse space are in high demand in the city of Santa Clarita, according to the latest numbers from the Santa Clarita Valley Economic Development Corp. The vacancy rate for the latter has been less than 3% for months.
The current owner of the land that hosts the swap meet, Doug Bonelli, said the market is scheduled to run until at least the end of July.
Beyond that, the Planning Commission could approve the property for a 35-acre project that includes 318 homes, including 122 detached single-family condos and 196 attached townhomes, with 22 identified as affordable housing.
Since sound stages are no longer a part of the plan, the Riverview Projecct is being proposed to have “an approximately 122,000-square-foot manufacturing building, in addition to a community recreation area and other on-site improvements,” according to an email from Patrick Leclair, planning manager for the city of Santa Clarita.
The site is also next to the existing Saugus Metrolink Station.
After the city filed an enforcement action, the clock tower at Soledad and Whites canyon roads have been fixed, and is now reporting the proper time. SIGNAL FILE PHOTO
Santa Clarita
Nestled in the heart of Southern California, Santa Clarita offers a vibrant blend of adventure, relaxation and cultural experiences that make it the ideal location for a memorable staycation. Whether you’re seeking adrenaline-pumping thrills at Six Flags Magic Mountain or Hurricane Harbor, exploring serene hiking trails or indulging in local flavors and entertainment, Santa Clarita promises something for everyone. For local businesses, this influx of visitors translates
into increased customers, enhanced brand recognition and a growing loyal customer base. From hotel stays to shopping sprees, dining experiences and entertainment, tourists contribute significantly to the local economy.
When tourists stay in Santa Clarita hotels, it benefits not only the hospitality sector but also nearby shops, restaurants and attractions. One of the most popular spots is the historic Arts and Entertainment District of Old Town Newhall which offers a wealth of activities for locals and
visitors alike. Explore a diverse range of restaurants offering everything from American comfort food at places like The Old Town Junction or Newhall Refinery, to international cuisines, including Maginn’s Irish Pub or La Charrita Restaurant, ensuring there’s something to satisfy every palate. Indulge in delectable desserts and pastries at charming bakeries like The Loaf, Jazmin’s, XRO Fresh Churro Bar and Pops Artisanal Creamery, perfect for a sweet treat after a meal or as a mid-day pick-me-up. Enjoy some time leisurely sipping on expertly brewed coffee at cozy cafes like Honu or Wide Eye Lounge, providing a relaxed atmosphere to unwind and people-watch. Discover unique shops showcasing eclectic finds, from artisanal crafts to trendy fashion items, ideal for a day of leisurely shopping.
For entertainment, catch a show at one of the local theatres, where you can enjoy live performances ranging from plays to concerts as well as indie and mainstream movies. Nearby, William S. Hart Park offers serene natural surroundings and recreational activities such as hiking trails, picnicking spots and opportunities to explore local history. Whether you’re looking to dine, shop, relax or explore nature, Old Town Newhall offers a diverse array of experiences to enjoy.
See EXPLORE, page 11
PHOTOS COURTESY CITY OF SANTA CLARITA
Workplace Lessons from the Garden
BY PAUL BUTLER SCVBJ Contributing Writer
We love discover-
ing places we’ve never been to before, and one of our newest findings is a beautiful botanical garden not far from home. We had a glorious day, and as a keen gardener, my wife especially loved it. When we returned home and sat down for a spot of tea to reflect upon the day, I could see so many parallels with the workplace. Stroll with me into the gardens. …
The first employee we met was Mary at the welcome kiosk. She was very enthused to tell us about the gardens
she evidently loved. Mary was quite new in her job. She wasn’t sure of one particular factoid about the park, and so checked in with a colleague who unfortunately didn’t share the same zest for work as Mary.
Isn’t that often the case in the working world — where some employees may become jaded and cynical? They often resent the enthusiasm of new employees. It’ll be interesting to go back to the gardens next year and see whether Mary’s still there and if she is, observe her demeanor. I hope Mary doesn’t get dragged down.
The second employee we met was Annie, as we headed into the gardens. She volunteered to take our family
photograph even though we hadn’t asked her. Annie anticipated our need before we asked. Isn’t that the epitome of superb service — being able to anticipate customer needs?
We later learned Annie had recently lost her husband of many decades, but rather than wallowing at home in her misery, she had decided instead to come serve her customers. Annie had a wonderful spirit about her — I sense she saw beyond the temporal.
Being from England originally, we gravitated toward the rose gardens. Isn’t it often like that in the workplace? We move toward that which we’re most familiar with. On the negative side, this is where we see cliques in the workplace — it can be very high schoolish. People tend to be most comfortable with people just like them — people who have the same interests and see the world the way we do.
My observation has been that exemplary entities work hard to break down this innate human condition that causes division and, in doing so, brings out the beauty and diversity of the whole garden.
We were concerned when we looked into the koi pond, as we were pretty sure we saw two dead fish lying on their sides. The other fish kept their distance. My wife encouraged me to say something to one of the staff members, but I didn’t.
In hindsight, I can see the parallels with the workplace — some people quit but they still come to work. Good colleagues don’t like to be around bad employees who metaphorically are lying on their side. Sadly, in some organizations, no one ever speaks up about the dead fish, and after
a while, they begin to rot if not removed by the gardening supervisor.
We were excited about going into the 22-room mansion at the top of the park but then saddened to hear it was closed for an exclusive private function. I see this so often when consulting with organizations. They tell me they’re looking to “build a more inclusive and open culture” but keep secrets; they don’t share information freely and have some perks that are only accessible to the elite within the upper echelons of the ivory towers. Effectively, such organizations have a 22-room mansion closed off to the minions. We decided to have lunch at the gardens, and although the food was splendid, I was sickened to overhear three employees loudly gossiping about colleagues at the table next to us. I was aghast to notice that one of the ladies had the title of Treasurer on her name badge. She was gossiping about how much money the organization had paid out to an owner of one of the concession stands in earned commission. Not only is this very unprofessional, as the custodian of the garden’s finances, but gossip is like a toxic poison within an entity — it feeds the enemy within. Someone once said, “We make our choices and then our choices make us,” and I was reminded of this principle during our stroll around these beautiful botanical gardens, not far from home.
Paul Butler is a Santa Clarita resident and a client partner with Newleaf Training and Development of Valencia (newleaftd.com). For questions or comments, email Butler at paul.butler@newleaftd.com.
Is Your Hearing Loss Putting You at Risk?
Dr. Kevin Bolder AuD, Audiology Associates
Untreated hearing loss has been known to be connected with a number of health conditions such as heart disease and depression, but a new study shows that accidental injury could be another health concern to add to that list.
Using data collected from the National Health Interview Survey between 2017 and 2023, researchers examined accidental injuries among adults. The results showed that those with hearing loss were twice as likely to experience an accidental injury whether it was at home, at work, in the car, or during a leisure activity.
It can be assumed that if someone does not have their full hearing ability, it will be more
difficult for them to spot dangers. Ears are also related to balance. Hearing loss can create balance difficulties and has been associated with more incidences of falling, and therefore, more frequent hospitalization.
One interesting thing to note from the study is that those with minor hearing loss were more likely to experience accidental injuries than those with severe hearing loss. This suggests that those with severe hearing problems are more aware of their needs and are able to more easily identify when they may come across danger.
The most important thing to do if you suspect you have a problem with your hearing is to make an appointment with a hearing
healthcare specialist. They will help provide options for treatment and give you guidance on how to navigate life with hearing loss.
To schedule a hearing consultation, please call Audiology Associates at 661-284-1900.
Kevin Bolder, Au.D and John Davis, Au.D are two of the best in Santa Clarita and San Fernando Valley. Visit our website at www. AudiologyAssociates.net or stop by our office located at 25425 Orchard Village Road, Ste 220, Santa Clarita, CA 91355.
We are hearing healthcare excellence!
SCV Summer Real Estate Market Heating Up
BY PERRY SMITH SCV Business Journal Editor
The latest data from the Santa Clarita Valley real estate market shows that both the number of homes and their prices are still on the rise for the local market, echoing a monthslong trend.
Every month, the SCV Business Journal reviews the latest data on the SCV’s supply for condominiums and single-family homes based on reports put together by the Southland Regional Association of Realtors each month.
The busiest sector of the market is Valencia, which has 83 active listings for condominiums and 101 active listings for singlefamily homes.
The median list price for single-family homes is just over $1 million, while the median sale price was $900,000 for the most recent month available in the SRAR listings. The median list price for condos in Valencia was $690,000, while the median sale price was $735,000, indicating that condos were in demand and exceeding their value.
Similarly, homes in Stevenson Ranch have been beating their list price largely due to the laws of supply and demand. There were only 15 active listings for the most recent month and there were 10 escrows that closed, so it’s not that surprising that the list price was at an average of $965,000, and the active sales prices bested that by nearly $200,000 — $1,157,000.
Castaic is another west-side SCV community that’s seen significant activity lately, although it’s almost all been in the singlefamily home market, as opposed to condos.
The community has 51 active listings for single-family homes, with the average listing price coming in at a little under $920,000,
while the median sale price has come in at $870,000. For condos, there are only four on the market, and the average list price was $430,000.
Canyon Country has seen quite a bit of activity too in the last 30 days or so, according to the Realtors’ reports.
Canyon Country had 44 active listings and eight escrows closed in the last four weeks for condominiums. For single-family homes, there were 79 active listings and 39 closed escrows.
The single-family homes were listed for $825,000 and sold for an average for just over $800,000.
Highlights from the First Half Of 2024
BY PERRY SMITH SCV Business Journal Editor
As the L.A. County Assessor’s Office prepares to wrap up its record of property values for the fiscal year 2023-24, which ended July 1, the Santa Clarita Valley Business Journal looks back at some of the biggest price tags for the local real estate market.
All of the homes and properties listed below are well above the median price for a single-family home in the SCV, which was $1,111,000 for the most recent month.
In January, one SCV Zillow listing described a sixbedroom, seven-bathroom, 7,745-square-foot beauty of a home on 25878 Shady Oak Lane. That home’s no longer on the market, after selling for $4,025,000.
In February, the real estate market’s biggest-ticket item was a rural property listed on Golden State Highway.
The Paradise Ranch at 36059 Golden State HIghway, which is represented by Mary Mathews of Sotheby’s International Realty, includes 9 bed-
rooms and five full bathrooms, according to the online posting. The current price is listed at just under $4,000,000.
A historical 40-acre property with more than 100 years of history in the Santa Clarita Valley, offering vineyards, a hotel, a popular French res-
taurant was listed at $5.7 million in March.
In May, a home in the heart of Sand Canyon, where Triumph Road turns into Alamo Canyon Road, $5,199,000 now buys you six bedrooms and 10 bathrooms at 16450 Alamo Canyon Road.
Last month’s big listing was $5.25 million for a two-bedroom, one-and-a-half-bathroom, 1,216-square-foot home that was built in 1939. The lot at the end of Jackson Street in Val Verde comes with 64 acres of gated privacy and country living just 15 minutes from the heart of Valencia.
Speaking of Valencia, one of the priciest homes still on the market is a nearly $4.3 million listing at 25783 Oak Leaf Court, which has six bedrooms and seven bathrooms.
from page 7
Another big draw for tourists and locals alike, is Santa Clarita’s burgeoning wine tasting and brewery scene. Wine tasting rooms like Pulchella, Newhall Press Room and Double Trouble provide intimate settings to sample locally-crafted wines, from bold reds to crisp whites. For beer aficionados, Lucky Luke Brewing, Brewery Draconum, Santa Cruz Brewing and Pocock Brewing offer a diverse selection of handcrafted brews, ranging from hoppy IPAs to smooth stouts, brewed onsite with meticulous attention to quality and flavor. Whether you’re discovering new wines or sipping on small-batch brews, the tasting rooms and breweries in Santa Clarita promise a memorable and flavorful experience.
Santa Clarita’s attractions, such as Six Flags Magic Mountain and Hurricane Harbor, draw visitors from near and far. From the towering loops of X2 to the high-speed drops of Goliath, thrill-seekers will find plenty to keep their adrenaline pumping. For families with younger children, Bugs Bunny World offers a delightful array of gentle rides and attractions themed around beloved Looney Tunes characters.
Adjacent to Six Flags Magic Mountain lies Hurricane Harbor, an expansive water park offering relief from our hot summer temperatures. Dive into a variety of water slides, including the thrilling Tornado or drift across the relaxing
Outdoor Escapes
If you’re craving outdoor adventures, Santa Clarita boasts an array of hiking trails that showcase the region’s natural beauty. Here are several trails that highlight the area’s stunning and diverse scenery:
1. Towsley Canyon Loop Trail: Located within Ed Davis Park in Towsley Canyon, this moderate five-mile loop trail winds through oak woodlands and chaparralcovered slopes. Hikers can enjoy scenic vistas of the Santa Clarita Valley and may spot local wildlife such as deer and various bird species.
2. East Canyon Trail to Walker Ranch Loop: Starting from East Canyon Park, this 3.5-mile loop trail offers a mix of shaded canyons and open vistas. It leads hikers through tranquil oak forests and past seasonal streams.
3. Haskell Canyon Open Space Trail: Ideal for beginners and families, this easy 2.5-mile out-and-back trail offers panoramic views of the Santa Susana Mountains. It traverses gentle slopes and provides glimpses of native flora and fauna along the way.
4. Golden Valley Ranch Open Space Loop: Situated near Golden Valley High School, this 2.3-mile loop trail is known for its wildflower displays in spring and scenic views year-round. It winds through rolling hills and grasslands, offering a peaceful retreat from urban life.
5. Placerita Canyon Nature Center Trails: These trails range from easy to moderate difficulty and cater to various hiking preferences. Highlights include the Waterfall Trail leading to a seasonal waterfall and the Canyon Trail offering encounters with diverse plant and animal life.
6. Vasquez Rocks Natural Area Park: Famous for its striking sandstone formations, Vasquez Rocks offers several trails that weave through dramatic geological features. The 2.6-mile loop trail provides opportunities for rock scrambling and stunning views of the unique rock formations that have been featured in many films and television shows.
Each of these trails promises a unique outdoor adventure, whether you’re seeking a leisurely stroll, a challenging hike or simply a chance to reconnect with nature.
Castaic Lake Recreation Area offers a plethora of recreational activities for outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy a day of boating, jet skiing, standup paddle boarding and fishing on the lake’s expansive waters. The lake is also a hotspot for swimming and picnicking along its sandy beaches. Hiking trails around the lake provide scenic views and opportunities for birdwatching and wildlife spotting. For those looking to relax, there are designated areas for camping and RV hookups, making Castaic Lake a perfect destination for a weekend getaway immersed in nature’s beauty and water sports fun.
HikeSantaClarita.com
CastaicLake.com
SCV Business Hub
The Santa Clarita Valley Chamber of Commerce has a new initiative, The SCV Business Hub powered by Linka. This exciting venture aims to transform how businesses engage with, transact and reach customers digitally.
As digital transactions become increasingly central to daily commerce—with more Americans ordering goods, booking services, and purchasing online— small to mid-size businesses (SMBs) face a crucial need to adapt. Despite the importance of digital engagement, a staggering 68% of U.S. SMBs lack a dedicated online storefront, and 29% have no website at all. These gaps not only limit market reach but also growth potential.
The SCV Business Hub can be found online at www.SCVBizHub.com and will help address the challenges many businesses face by offering:
Customizable Storefronts: For as low as $19/month, businesses can easily set up their marketplace storefront to showcase their offerings and interact with customers, integrating essential features to prevent customer loss.
Monetization Funnels: Capture leads, manage data, sell products, services, and subscriptions, and collect payments, all streamlined through their own digital presence.
Multi-Channel Presence: SEO-optimized storefronts increase visibility across search engines and community digital marketplaces. The storefronts can also be integrated with social media and a business’ existing websites.
Community Support: Through the SCV Business Hub, companies can gain access to a network of business owners, industry leaders, and resources, creating a supportive community environment.
Events: Through the hub, businesses can create events which will automatically be visible to the entire community.
Affiliate Program: When Chamber members refer and sign up a new business to the Hub, they receive 15% commission for every business they sign up!
SCV Chamber members will receive a limited offer of 20% discount when signing up to the SCV Business Hub. This member discount will be available until August 31, 2024. The discount code can be obtained by emailing hello@scvchamber.com. In addition, all SCV Chamber members will have access to the Affiliate program where they can earn 15% commission for every business they sign up.
For more information, sponsorship opportunities or to inquire about the SCV Business Hub, contact us at hello@scvchamber. com.
The Voice of Business
Advocacy Victory! PAGA Reform
A long-awaited solution for abusive lawsuits filed under the Private Attorneys General Act (PAGA) is now state law.
Governor Gavin Newsom signed two SCV Chamber-supported bills following relentless and collaborative advocacy from statewide business, labor, and civic leaders. AB 2288 (Kalra) and SB 92 (Umberg) will streamline litigation processes, avert a contentious ballot measure, help employers comply with PAGA, and better support employees with legitimate claims.
We thank our partners at CalChamber, for spearheading this effort and legislators who unanimously passed these bills.
AB 2288 and SB 92 will help employers and employees – which PAGA failed to do. The original act’s “lawsuit-first” approach to addressing minor labor law violations and technical errors saddled business owners with unnecessary costs, slowing job growth and forcing some small enterprises to close. Meanwhile, workers received only a small portion of the nearly $10 billion awarded through PAGA lawsuits since 2013.
WHAT THE NEW LEGISLATION DOES
• Expands Labor Code sections that can be cured, reducing the need for expensive litigation.
• Lowers costs for smaller employers by providing a more robust right to cure process through the Labor and Workforce Development Agency (LWDA).
• Codifies the court’s authority to limit the scope of claims presented at trial.
• Allows courts to provide injunctive relief, compelling businesses to remedy labor law violations.
• Requires the employee to personally experience the alleged violations brought in a claim.
• Gives the Department of Industrial Relations (DIR) the ability to expedite hiring, ensuring effective enforcement of employee labor claims.
• Encourages compliance with labor laws by capping penalties on employers who quickly take steps to fix policies and practices.
• Creates higher penalties for employers who act maliciously, fraudulently, or oppressively.
• Increases the amount of penalty money allocated to employees for legitimate claims from 25% to 35%.
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.
Latino Business Alliance Chair, Patsy Ayala congratulates Elizabeth Marie Diaz-Mata on the grand opening of Bella Salon.
Photo credit: Joie de Vivre Photographie
Congratulations to Bella Salon on your grand opening in June! Go to www.bellasalonscv.com to contact and find out more. Thank you to everyone who came out to support Elizabeth and her team on this special occasion.
Photo credit: Joie de Vivre Photographie
Do you have a grand opening or anniversary coming up? Email us at hello@scvchamber.com for details about hosting a ribbon cutting ceremony.
Celebrating SCV Businesses
The Voice(s) of Business Podcast
Episode 5 of The Voice(s) of Business podcast is out and ready for you to enjoy!
Whether you’re commuting, working out, or relaxing at home, you can listen to our podcast on any platform where you typically enjoy your favorite shows.
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Andrew Taban, Field Representative for Assemblywoman Pilar Schiavo congratulates Elizabeth Marie Diaz-Mata on the grand opening of Bella Salon. Photo credit: Joie de Vivre Photographie
Business After Hours Mixer at Henry Mayo Newhall Hospital
June 21 | 5:30 pm
Join us for our June Business After Hours mixer at Henry Mayo Newhall Hospital, where business representatives from across the Santa Clarita Valley will gather for an evening of networking. Enjoy food, drinks and the chance to forge new connections and reconnect with friends!
Our mixers are a great way to get engaged with our business community in a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere, where ideas are exchanged, knowledge is shared, and potential partnerships are explored. Seize this chance to expand your network, gain new insights, and nurture lasting connections.
To view our full calendar and event details go to www.SCVChamber.com or scan the QR Code to the right.
UPCOMING EVENTS
Government Affairs Council (Virtual) August 14 | 10:30 am
We invite you to participate in our monthly Government Affairs Council meeting—a vital forum where we discuss, review, and take action on policy decisions at the local, county, state, and federal levels.
As a proactive advocate for our members, the SCV Chamber is committed to maintaining a healthy and vibrant business climate in one of California’s most business-friendly cities. Our Government Affairs Council plays a pivotal role in shaping legislative policies that support and promote business growth in the Santa Clarita Valley.
At our monthly meetings, attendees have the opportunity to:
Review Policy Decisions: Stay informed about the latest policy developments and legislative initiatives affecting the business community at the local, regional, state, and federal levels.
Engage in Discussions: Participate in meaningful discussions with fellow business leaders, policymakers, and community stakeholders to exchange ideas, share perspectives, and advocate for policies that align with our collective interests.
Take Action: Collaborate with the Chamber and fellow members to develop strategic advocacy efforts and initiatives aimed at advancing our policy priorities and advocating for positive change.
Whether you’re a seasoned advocate or new to the realm of government affairs, your voice matters. Join us as we work together to shape the future of our business community and make a difference in the legislative landscape. Open to all Chamber Members!
For more information or to RSVP for your seat at the table, email us at hello@scvchamber.com.
Congratulations to SCV’s Power Brokers of 2023 in Commercial Real Estate
TBy Jey Wagner, Ed.D. President & CEO of the Santa Clarita Valley Economic Development Corporation
he Santa Clarita Valley Economic Development Corporation (SCVEDC) invests not just in growing our local businesses but attracting great companies to the region with a focus on industries that provide our residents with high-quality, high-paying jobs. Bringing businesses to our community takes a combined effort from the SCVEDC and our partners in economic development, and of course, from the dedicated commercial real estate brokers who work tirelessly to get these businesses set up at the right location that works for them. Each year we recognize the top commercial real estate brokers active in the Santa Clarita Valley whose efforts contributed the most economic impact.
The Power Brokers of 2023 hail from seven commercial real estate companies based both in and outside the Santa Clarita Valley that represented transactions in the SCV. The top brokers logged transactions with a total footage of over 5.1M Square Feet (SF) between them, across 390 different deals. Their success reflects that the Santa Clarita Valley is a destination for a growing number of businesses looking for land, modern facilities, and a business-friendly environment.
Alongside the Power Brokers SCVEDC also selects a “Transaction of the Year”, with this year’s winner going to the sale of the Valencia Town Center to Centennial Commercial Real Estate in September 2023. Centennial owns or operates more than 21 million square feet of retail and mixed-use destinations in seventeen states. The City of Santa Clarita, along with input from the SCVEDC, Chamber of Commerce, local development professionals, commercial brokers, and our community, put together the Town Center Specific Plan (TCSP) - DRAFT.
Per their April 2024 version of the TCSP... “The explicit intent of the TCSP is to ensure that a balanced mix of uses is developed within the Specific Plan Area (SPA). Residential and nonresidential uses must be provided in lockstep, with projects providing combinations of retail, dining, entertainment, hospitality, commercial, and residential uses on an ongoing basis as new development and redevelopment occurs within the SPA”. The definitive version will be used to inform Centennial with a “place-making framework” of what the community would like
to see in the re-development of the Valencia Town Center and SPA area.
When a company selects a new site location, it not only looks at concrete features such as space, facilities, and growth opportunities, but also at economic and demographic attributes such as the labor pool, population characteristics, prevailing salaries, and educational resources. SCVEDC provides authoritative data by collaborating with top researchers and data
providers in the field of economic development. Visit our Broker Portal to learn more, and check out our Data + Reports page for Quarterly Economic Snapshots, Quick Facts, monthly Econowatch, and annual Economic Outlook book. The SCVEDC team is proud to partner with the brokerage community to continue our mission of growing high-quality jobs in the Santa Clarita Valley.
The List Oldest Businesses In The SCV
Coming Soon to COC: A Bachelor’s Degree Program in Building Performance
BY DIANNE VAN HOOK Chancellor, Santa Clarita Community College District/College of the Canyons
The year 2025 is going to be a historic one at College of the Canyons. In January, we will be launching our first bachelor of applied science degree program in building performance!
The first of its kind in the state, the Bachelor of Applied Science in Building Performance (BASBP) program at COC will provide a cost-effective pathway for careers involved with creating high performance buildings by preparing students for the state recognized Certified Energy Analysist exam, and growing employment opportunities in the Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (AEC) industry.
We are so excited to see how our BASBP graduates reshape our communities by creating high performance buildings that meet the needs of a rapidly growing Santa Clarita Valley!
Students enrolled in the BASBP program will learn how to examine the effects of environmental factors and re-
source consumption on the performance of building projects using a variety of analytical and simulation methodologies. Utilizing advanced Building Energy Modeling (BEM) and Building Information Modeling (BIM) methods, graduates will be prepared to help architectural projects achieve code compliance, improve building performance, and attain sustainable rating system certification. Creating high performance buildings is important because more thoughtful planning, design, and construction of the built environment can help meet the objectives and performance targets necessary for achieving resiliency and developing sustainable communities.
Students enrolled in the 120-unit degree program will be required to complete a project-based learning internship
to apply the skills they’ve learned in the program to improve their readiness for employment in the AEC industry upon graduation. Students will be equipped for careers as Building Energy Modelers (BEM), Building Information Modeling (BIM) and Computer-Aided Design (CAD) technicians or as Sustainable Building Certification System consultants. Since its inception, our architecture program has been a statewide leader in preparing graduates for exciting, well-paying careers in the AEC industry and as champions for sustainable building design and construction. This new BASBP program will be pivotal for enhancing COC’s mission of helping students build their future, as well as providing an opportunity for graduates to apply directly for master’s level architecture programs or pursue professional licensure and industry certifications in California.
For more information about the BASBP program at COC, please visit www.canyons.edu.
Lazy River. Younger children can splash around in interactive play areas designed with safety and fun in mind.
Another big draw is Santa Clarita’s year-round calendar of engaging events. The popular SENSES Block Parties take over Main Street monthly, offering themed activities and opportunities that will stimulate all your senses. Summertime marks the return of the hometown favorite Concerts in the Park events series. Every Saturday night through August, Central Park transforms into a live music mecca with tribute bands rocking the stage performing a wide-range of favorite hits. For the full list of City events please visit SantaClarita.gov/Events.
The City also offers residents and visitors alike, an abundance of popular amenities. If your kids love to swim, head over to one of the City’s eight public pools. The Santa Clarita Aquatic Center offers three pools in one location, catering to all your swimming needs. Kids will
TOURISM
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love zipping down the 160-foot water slide, splashing in the activity pool or jumping off the diving boards. If you prefer skating to swimming, head over to The Cube — Ice and Entertainment Center, powered by FivePoint Valencia. Always a crisp 54 degrees inside, The Cube offers skating, hockey and event space.
Whether you’re seeking heart-pounding thrills, outdoor adventures, cultural discoveries or simply relaxation by the hotel pool, Santa Clarita offers tourists and residents plenty of experiences. Hotels in the City limits of Santa Clarita contribute a 10% Transient Occupancy Tax (TOT) for each hotel room booked. With the Hampton Inn opening soon, off of Newhall Ranch Road, there will be 10 hotels in City limits and the money collected through TOT will contribute over $5 million to the City’s general fund annually!
The Santa Clarita Tourism Bureau is a local membership organization comprised of attractions, destination restaurants and hotels working together to provide out-of-town visitors a great experience. For example, when large events come to town, businesses can collaborate to provide discounts to attendees, enhancing their stay and increasing the likelihood of return visits and positive word of mouth exposure. Santa Clarita also has a Tourism Market-
ing District that provides funding from a small assessment from hotel guests to do regional advertising and support to help get events that attract visitation such as sports tournaments, concerts and meetings.
Keep in mind that the more money tourists spend in Santa Clarita, the greater the benefit to the local economy. Increased spending leads to higher tax revenues, which are reinvested into the community. These tax dollars contribute to enhancing public services, adding to
The List Oldest Businesses In The SCV
our park system, maintaining infrastructure and improving the quality of life for all residents. This cycle of economic growth helps create a thriving community where both businesses and residents can enjoy the benefits.
The tourism experts at Visit Santa Clarita have several suggestions for planning your ideal staycation. You can find more information on how to plan the perfect day in Santa Clarita by going to VisitSantaClarita.com.
The 2024 Assessment Roll Nears Completion; Forecast Announced
BY JEFF PRANG
Los Angeles County Assessor
Icome before you this month to let you know we are in the final stages of fulfilling our Constitutional mandate and the most significant item I do as your County Assessor: the 2024 Assessment Roll.
As I visited with you last year about this same time, some of you may be scratching your head and wondering: What is the Assessment Roll? Others are more than familiar with the comprehensive tally that values more than 2.5 million real estate parcels in Los Angeles County that results in the very tax dollars that goes to pay for vital public services, such as police, fire, schools, and even libraries, to name a few.
The Assessment Roll is essentially completed by June 30, as our fiscal year runs from July 1 to June 30. It is the very foundation of Los Angeles County’s property tax system. If the Roll is not thorough and accurate, the county might not receive the necessary funding for the year and critical government services are left wanting. Others cannot do their job until we do ours
“The Roll,” as it is also known, contains the assessed value of all real estate and business personal property in the County’s 88 cities along with the unincorporated areas. It also breaks down the number of single-family residential homes, apartments and commercialindustrial parcels.
Last year as an example, the Roll comprised 2,592,167 million real estate parcels and business assessments countywide. That included 1,892,564 single-family homes, 250,511 apartment complexes and 248,123 commercial and industrial properties.
Moreover, the 2023 Assessment Roll came in at nearly $2 trillion, which made about $20 billion available for the public services just mentioned.
As a point of interest, I reported to the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors on May 15 that taxable property values for this year are anticipated to increase about 4.75% over 2023, marking 14 years of continuous growth, as well as for the first time in history breaking the $2 trillion ceiling for net total value.
The May forecast projects the anticipated growth rate for the annual Assessment Roll. The forecast is an important tool for local governments as they prepare their annual budgets in anticipation of property tax revenues.
As I told the Board in May, this has been a challenging few years as the local and national economies respond to a variety of factors, whether it be residential or commercial. Our analysis indicates that property values are going to grow for
the 14th consecutive year, which is good news for property owners and for local government because they rely on property taxes to pay for vital public services. However, sales volume declined significantly in 2023 and commercial properties, especially downtown Los Angeles, have experienced huge declines in value I also want to remind residents that the growth does not mean property owners will be subject to a corresponding increase on their annual property tax bills. Most property owners will see only a 2% adjustment prescribed by Proposition 13. For more information about the Assessor’s Office and the many tax savings programs we offer, please visit our website at assessor.lacounty.gov. Los Angeles County Assessor Jeff Prang leads the largest local public property assessment agency in the nation. His office of about 1,400 appraisers and support staff are dedicated to creating an accurate and timely
Santa Clarita Stock Average
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 into how our local company’s stocks are performing. Last month the index was 3,799.68 and the average price per share was $125.96 This month the index is 3,653.86 down 145.82 or 3.8% For an average share price of $121.80.
