SCV Business Journal September 2023

TAMURA GURNEY AND TEAM INVESTING IN COMMUNITY

2023 |

PUBLISHER

Richard Budman rbudman@signalscv.com (661) 287-5501

BUSINESS JOURNAL EDITOR Perry Smith

SALES REPRESENTATIVES

Maureen Daniels

Jennifer Ramos

Barbara Ward

Unleash the true potential of your business through captivating graphic design. Your marketing materials should echo your message even when you’re not in the room. QM Design Group crafts visuals that speak volumes, leaving a lasting impression on your audience. Ignite your brand’s personality – let your visual voice resonate powerfully!

Hillary Broadwater Creative Director

Strategy Nine: See the People

KEN KELLER SCVBJ Contributing Writer

I’ve noticed a disturbing trend in business these days.

It is the overwhelming reliance that many organizations have on emails, Zoom video conferencing and text messages.

While those communication platforms have their place, nothing and I repeat nothing, beats meeting faceto-face.

A wise woman I have known for decades has always preached to me, “See the people, see the people and see the people. That is how you gain and keep clients!”

Back in 1989, United Airlines ran a television commercial that underscores the need for human interface.

Produced by Leo Burnett, a Chicagobased advertising agency, it featured Ben, a beleaguered, older gentleman whose company had just been fired by a long-tenured and highly valued client.

Ben, quickly responding to this situation, calls a management meeting to announce the bad news. His message is blunt and compelling. The company is losing touch with its clients. It must reinvigorate its lifeblood of personal relationships.

An assistant hands Ben a stack of United tickets — back in the day they were on paper — and Ben starts handing them out to his managers.

One of the managers objects: “But Ben, that’s more than 200 cities.” Ben is unphased.

Someone asks Ben where he’s going, and he replies: “To visit that old friend who fired us this morning.”

No matter what business you are in, you are in the people business. Clients are important, so creating a CEO visit cycle might be at the top of your priorities, but you do not want to forget your employees, your prospects and your business partners (suppliers and vendors, along with others serving your company).

I cannot tell you how many CEOs I know that have lost touch with their front-line employees. There are a few

companies where the top executives work as front-line employees one day a year. But most executives park in their designated parking spots and go directly to their offices and spend the day there.

One of my clients realized he had been stuck in isolation mode when it dawned on him that he had not seen or spoken to some of his employees for months. He started parking behind the warehouse and was able to re-engage with his employees when he walked through the facility each day.

Your business partners also need attention. You might have to initiate the conversation simply to learn what additional products or services they have that you are unaware of and might need. Or you may want to discuss how you can lower the price you are paying for services. While these conversations can be held on Zoom, or over the phone, meeting in person will enhance the importance of the relationship.

Let me ask just two questions to consider as you think about creating your own strategy for “seeing the people”:

„ How often are your people meeting with current clients and what needs to be stopped, started, or changed to make the visits more impactful for both parties?

„ What is the schedule that you and your top executives have for regularly interacting with your employees?

For this strategy to be successful, the CEO must lead from the front, and by example. What is on the calendar will reveal how important this strategy really is.

Ken Keller is an executive coach who works with small and midsize 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. „

‘See the people, see the people and see the people. That is how you gain and keep clients!’

Five Key Facts About Flu Vaccines

PATRICK MOODY Henry Mayo Newhall Hospital

The flu can make you feel miserable. Fortunately, there’s a simple way to avoid this common illness — get a flu vaccine. The flu vaccine gives you the best chance of avoiding the flu. Vaccination also helps keep you from spreading the flu to others.

Here are five facts about flu vaccinations that may help you better understand their safety and importance:

FLU VACCINES ARE EXTREMELY SAFE

Nearly everyone ages six months or older should get a flu vaccine, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. They can do so with confidence, since flu vaccines have undergone rigorous studies and been given to millions of people in the U.S. safely for nearly 50 years.

Despite what you might have heard, you cannot get the flu from the vaccines. Flu shots use either inactive viruses or a protein from the flu virus. The nasal spray vaccine uses a live virus that has been weakened so it won’t cause illness.

FLU

VACCINES SAVE LIVES

Each year, many people have complications from the flu that can result in hospital stays (I’m one of those people) and deaths. Flu vaccines help prevent these severe outcomes. Of course, no flu vaccine prevents 100% of infections. But people who are vaccinated and still get the flu usually have a less severe illness, compared to those who are unvaccinated. YOU NEED A NEW FLU VACCINATION EVERY YEAR

There are a couple of reasons that you need a flu vaccine each year. One is that the protection from the vaccine fades with time. An annual vaccine updates that protection and gives you the best chance of avoiding the flu.

Another reason is that flu viruses are constantly changing. Each year, the composition of the flu vaccine is reviewed and updated if needed to make sure it provides the best possible protection.

THERE ARE SPECIAL VACCINES FOR SENIORS

Starting with the 2022–2023 flu season, there are stronger flu shots recommended for adults 65 and older, who may need enhanced

protection from the flu. If for some reason one of the stronger flu shots isn’t available when you go to get vaccinated, you should get the regular flu shot instead.

YOU SHOULD AIM TO BE VACCINATED BY THE END OF OCTOBER — BUT LATER IS BETTER THAN NEVER

Getting vaccinated early means you’ll be

protected when flu season typically starts. There is no need to wait until later in the year. The vaccine will still protect you throughout the entire flu season.

If you miss getting vaccinated early in the season, you should still get the shot later. You can benefit from the vaccine whenever the flu is still spreading. In some years, that can be as late as spring. 

Women In Business

Dr. Edith Ellis Owner of Flawless Skin Ivy Hydration Med Spa

Ellis, who’s also a nursing professor at Santa Monica Community College and runs a nonprofit that helps families in Ghana, said her role model is also a friend, Selina Thomas, who’s been a supporter of hers since the beginning of her journey as a business owner. The two met because both have children who attended a local school together, but the willingness of Thomas, CEO of 6 Degrees HR Consulting, to always be there for her, led them to develop a lasting friendship of their own, she said. “I told her my goals and my plans ... and she literally took that and ran with it, encouraging me and motivating me, offering me ideas and tips and support.”

Mitzi Like CEO of LBW Insurance & Financial Services

Like said when she was starting out in the insurance industry, the reality at the time was that there really weren’t any female role models for her in the field. She didn’t have a female mentor and there weren’t any female agency owners she could connect with or model herself after in the industry in the early 1980s, she said. However, Like also said that when she entered her field, she was also very young and she actually felt like that was the bigger challenge at the time. “It’s certainly different today,” she said. At this point in her career, she places a high value on her peer friendships with female CEOs and business owners.

Marlee Lauffer VP Marketing & Communications of Henry Mayo Newhall Hospital

“I have been blessed to have many female mentors in my life, including my mother in my early years and my daughter today,” she said. “However, I’d like to pay homage to a specific business and life mentor, Viki Rudolph. Rudolph was executive director of the Santa Clarita Valley Chamber of Commerce at a key time. She helped grow the chamber from a small business group into a respected regional political powerhouse.” Laufffer also called Rudolph “the ultimate professional,” who could hold her own in any situation. “She modeled a fierce determination to succeed, yet always acted intentionally with grace and dignity.”

Steffanie Stelnick Owner & CEO of the Law Offices of Steffanie Stelnick

Stelnick, who also runs Southern California Real Estate Management and Blo Out Lounge, said one of her biggest inspirations was very close to home — her grandmother, Joanne Schwartzberg. Schwartzberg was a former director of nursing at Darlington House and served as a lieutenant colonel in the U.S. Army Reserve Nursing Corps, among her many community contributions. “My grandma wanted to lead by example. If she wasn’t going to do it, she didn’t expect anyone else to do it. She valued education and the power of women. I still look up to her today and miss her daily but seeing her in my daughter and myself reminds me every day how important it is to educate and empower women.”

“The women who inspired me were trail blazers at a time when opportunities for women were limited, so they gave me the confidence to not compromise on what I believed I could do, and to be tenacious, strategic, and optimistic, no matter what. They always encouraged me to follow my passion, to not let the parameters of my past experience limit my potential, and to look where no one else had gone before and go there. They were a true testament of ‘if you can see me, you can be me.’ How grateful I am for their willingness to invest in me and show me what was possible if I was willing to not only dream, but also put in the work needed to make those dreams become reality.”

“When I started my career path, I was green to everything about business and being a community leader,” Hoffman Vanyek said, recalling when she first entered her industry. She recalled two leaders in particular who were colleagues and left a major impression on her. “Fortunately, two women on our board of directors, Cathy Maguire and Jill Truelsen, took me under their wings. They had the dynamic combination of grit and grace and were an impressive example of what women in business can achieve. Over 30 years later, I remember the example they set and the road they paved for my future as a business leader. I’m forever grateful for their mentorship.”

For the Santa Clarita Valley Business Journal theme this month, “Women in Business,” we asked a few leaders in our community who their role models were when they were starting out in their respective fields. Here are a few of the answers we received.

Dianne Van Hook Chancellor of College of the Canyons

Nancy Hoffman Vanyek CEO of the San Fernando Valley Chamber of Commerce

The Everything, Everywhere, All at Once of Selecting the Right Bank for Your Business

Starting and running a business is an exciting and rewarding endeavor, but it comes with responsibilities, including managing finances. One crucial aspect of financial management is selecting the right business bank, which can have a significant impact on the success of your business.

Not all banks are created equal. Selecting the right bank can make all the difference but can be a challenging task.

“It is important to carefully consider the financing options, account types, electronic services, fees, and service levels offered by each institution,” said Tamara Gurney, President and CEO of Mission Valley Bank. She underscored the significance of a bank’s approach to customer service, recognizing that certain entrepreneurs may gravitate towards the anonymity of large banks, while others place a premium on the personalized touch characteristic of smaller community banks.

A community bank is a lending institution that primarily serves businesses and individuals in the community where it operates and is not affiliated with a multibank holding company. They also tend to emphasize personal relationships with customers.

Gurney expounded on the distinctions in product delivery among financial institutions, stating, “While most financial institutions offer similar product offerings, the way in which these products are delivered can vary greatly.” Larger banks and online financial institutions may offer more convenient online application processes, while smaller community banks, such as Mission Valley Bank, offer more personalized service and customized solutions.

No bank can be all things to all clients. Each institution may have a different focus and core competency, making it essential for businesses to ensure that the bank they choose is a good fit for their specific needs.

Research

Before choosing a bank, a customer should conduct research to determine the bank’s strength, health, and direc-

tion. This can be done through a quick internet search, which can provide ample information about the philosophy and focus of various institutions. Once choices have been narrowed down, make an appointment with a banker to learn more.

Gurney proposed a set of inquiries to pose during these sessions, encompassing the bank’s eagerness to forge a rapport with the business, the spectrum of products and services extended, and the bank’s readiness to furnish forthright and transparent assessments of the financial situation.

Trusted Advisory Role

For business proprietors, navigating financial management and strategic decisions can be a formidable feat. Managing financial statements, deciphering tax regulations, and pinpointing avenues for growth are among the common challenges confronting entrepreneurs. To navigate this labyrinth, many business owners seek the counsel of trusted advisors.

Gurney clarified that a trusted advisor is a financial professional who provides guidance and support to business owners as they navigate the diverse challenges tied to financial management and strategic choices. Whether they materialize as CPAs, financial planners, or business bankers, these trusted advisors furnish invaluable insights, resources, and expertise, enhancing the prospects of business success.

One of the key benefits of having a trusted advisor is they can help business owners navigate the many challenges faced when managing finances and making strategic decisions. Depending upon their area of expertise, a trusted advisor can help business owners identify strengths and weaknesses, understand their financial position, and develop a strategic plan for success.

Moreover, trusted advisors prove indispensable during pivotal transitions such as mergers, acquisitions, succession

The Mission Valley Bank team members (from left) President and CEO Tamara Gurney, Vice President Operations Manager Laura Soto, Sonia Howard, Sarah Villanueva, Vice President Rachel Carrillo and Blanca Palacios. PHOTOS BY DAN WATSON / THE SIGNAL

Big Plans Afoot in Santa Clarita

DEVELOPING STORIES

BY PERRY SMITH SCV Business Journal Editor

After a relatively slow July for the city of Santa Clarita’s Planning Division, things appear to be heating up now that most have come back from their summer vacations.

In fact, the rumors have been moving around City Hall so quickly that the City Council’s approval of a billion-dollar film and television studio for North Newhall and Placerita Canyon may not even have been the biggest news of the month.

The Shadowbox Studios project, a state-of-the-art facility that’s going to increase the number of industry-ready sound stages in the city by about 50%. It’s expected to generate about 2,000 jobs and the billion-dollar figure is expected to be the net impact to the region, according to project officials.

The plan was approved at the council’s first meeting back from summer recess after four hearings in front of the Planning Commission.

The approval also helps pave the way in terms of need for the city’s Dockweiler Drive extension project, a joint effort to extend that road to Railroad Avenue, which is being split between the city and The Master’s University, which is next to where the studio is planning to build. The project’s principal, Jeff Weber, said the construction for the project is expected to take about 30 months. (The city is expected to start its work on the extension next year, and that project is expected to take two years.)

However, another seismic shift is currently under way on the west side of the city.

It hasn’t been announced yet, but I’m told as of this story’s publication, there will be a new owner for much of the land that occupies Westfield Valencia Town Center.

The buyer is reported to be a Dallasbased commercial retail real estate owner and operator with plans for properties from San Diego to Virginia and in about 15 states in between there, according to

the company’s website.

The city has been actively preparing for the eventuality with public participation starting back in April, when The Signal first reported that Westfield was likely to part ways with the SCV.

The city of Santa Clarita, fearing the French multinational corporation might sell one of its largest sales tax revenue creators to a housing developer or walk away from it altogether, began work on a Town Center Specific Plan and has yet to reveal the outcome of the public-participation process.

One of the things that city officials did note this month is that drivers might notice a little more construction work taking place, as more of the many projects the city’s Planning Department has approved in the last 18 months are starting to go vertical.

Coffee drinkers in particular will be happy to know that Starbucks is starting work at the site of its newest SCV location — No. 3,476 at last count, I believe, but I could be off by a few — which is slated for just down the road from its current location, next to Corner Bakery, on Magic Mountain Parkway, the former site of a car wash there near Valencia Boulevard.

Not quite to scale of the Shadowbox project, Hotworx Studios also has plans

to expand in Santa Clarita, with the city recently having reviewed plans for a 2,000-square-foot space at 24599 Copper Hill Drive, which is just north of Decoro Drive on the left-hand side.

And on a minor note, the nearby Ralphs on McBean Parkway recently pulled permits that would indicate changes are afoot at the local grocer, perhaps its adding a second Starbucks on the other side of the store?

Two other projects that will likely be in the Planning Commission’s sights in the fall — the Wiley Canyon Project and the Sand Canyon resort plans.

The Sand Canyon resort plans are heading back to the Planning Commission at some point after the developer receives its responses from the city on the new plans submitted in the spring.

The Wiley Canyon Project is a mixeduse nearly 32-acre site located east of Interstate 5 and west of Wiley Canyon Road, between Hawkbryn Avenue and Calgrove Boulevard.

Included in the plans are a 277,000square-foot, four-story senior living facility with 130 independent living units, 61 assisted living units and 26 memory care beds; 379 apartment units, ranging from two to four stories; and nearly 9,000 square feet of commercial space. 

Construction near the inter section of Valencia Boulevard and McBean Parkway gets underway, the site of the area’s newest Starbucks location, which is moving from across the street in the Valencia Crossroads Plaza. PHOTO BY HABEBA MOSTAFA / THE SIGNAL

Hearing Loss and Dementia: What You Should Know

DR. KEVIN BOLDER AuD, Audiology Associates

Predicted to nearly double in prevalence every 20 years, dementia is a general term for cognitive decline that’s severe enough to interfere with daily life. Memory loss is one of this condition’s greatest side effects, which is why Alzheimer’s is the most common type of dementia.

What’s more is that research suggests that untreated hearing loss can actually accelerate the progression of dementia. When you can’t hear, you have a natural tendency to become socially withdrawn, participate in conversations less, and experience an increase in mental stress — eventually, these things can contribute to dementia. When the brain can only focus on trying to hear, there is less energy being put

into retaining information and forming memories. Conversely, when certain parts of the brain aren’t receiving enough stimulation, it can also affect its ability to function.

So, what can you do to make sure you are safeguarding against dementia?

The good news is researchers have found that hearing aids can actually delay the onset of dementia. Modern day hearing aids not only enhance and amplify sounds, they also make it easier for the brain to process and make sense of all sounds in an environment. This makes a significant difference. Even someone with a mild hearing loss can significantly lighten their cognitive load with the use of hearing aids.

It’s important to remember that your hearing

health is closely related to your overall health. In addition to dementia, hearing loss is also connected to depression, heart disease, obesity, and more. To make sure you are leading a happier and healthier life, the best thing you can do it get your hearing screened regularly by a hearing healthcare professional.

To make an appointment with a hearing healthcare provider, please call Audiology Associates at 661-284-1900. Kevin Bolder, Au.D/ owner 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! 

The Voice of Business

ADVOCATING FOR A HEALTHIER BUSINESS

CLIMATE Assembly Bill 1347 - Oppose Unless Amended. The Board is requesting the amendment read, that the bill prohibits BPA and BPS in receipts as of January 1, 2025, which is when adequate supplies of BPA- and BPS-free paper will be available.

With the legislative session coming to a wrap, the Chamber’s Government Affairs Council has been busy taking action to ensure our businesses help keep the California economy strong and moving forward.

This past Government Affairs Council meeting, the GAC recommended the following action to the Board of Directors:

Senate Bill 770 - Oppose Position

California has significantly reduced its uninsured population by implementing the Affordable Care Act. Additional initiatives have been undertaken to extend health care coverage to more Californians, including expanding comprehensive Medi-Cal coverage to income-eligible undocumented residents under the age of 26 and, more recently, to those over the age of 49.

California has also established the Healthy California for All Commission, or the HCFA, to develop a plan for a unified healthcare financing system in the state. Implementing a suitable financing system would require federal statutory changes and the redirection of Medicare, Medicaid, and other federal funds into California. HCFA sought the opinion of a law firm specializing in federally funded health and benefits programs, which indicated that pursuing a unified financing model would require stitching together various authorities, each of which has its requirements for approval and most of which shift substantial financial risk to the state.

SB 770 would mandate that the California Health and Human Services Agency (CalHHS) engage in discussions with the federal government to secure a waiver, allowing for the establishment of a comprehensive healthcare system with unified financing (UF). This healthcare system would offer a broad range of benefits, including medical, behavioral health, drug, dental, vision, and long-term care services, with no cost-sharing for essential services.

The bill also outlines provisions for a just transition for individuals whose jobs may be disrupted by creating a single-payer system and sufficient reserves to ensure solvency during public health emergencies and other economic disruptions. The Secretary of CalHHS would form a Waiver Development Workgroup to advise the Governor on federal negotiations and report to the Legislature by June 1, 2024, with recommendations for the elements to be included in a formal waiver application and all legislative actions necessary to establish a UF system in line with CalHHS’s discussions with the federal government.

CalHHS has stated that the establishment of a workgroup, holding quarterly meetings, providing updates, and submitting a report to the Legislature with recommendations by June 2024 will come at an unspecified cost, which could potentially be in the low millions of dollars for fiscal year 2023-24 and beyond. It is important to note that this bill will be effective from January 2024, and even if work were to commence immediately after the bill is signed, it would be challenging to bring the workgroup together, develop recommendations, and submit them to the Legislature by June 2024.

Under the IWMA, which is the California Integrated Waste Management Act of 1989, CalRecycle is tasked with reducing the amount of waste that gets landfilled in California. More than 40 million tons of solid waste are disposed of in California’s landfills annually, of which 28.4% is organic materials, 13% is plastic, and 15.5% is paper.

Paper receipts are a subset of overall paper waste. Most businesses offer paper receipts to customers as proof of payment at checkout. These paper receipts are printed on special thermal paper, which changes color when heated. To achieve this effect, receipts are made with either bisphenol A, or BPA, or bisphenol S, or BPS, with BPS being far more prevalent in California.

Bisphenols, including BPA and BPS are known endocrine disrupters, meaning that they can cause harm to reproduction and are associated with increased risks for cancer. While BPA and BPS are found in many household items and can most easily enter human bodies through diet, BPA and BPS are also present in paper receipts.

Recognizing receipts as a source of potentially harmful BPA, Connecticut banned the use of receipt paper containing BPA in 2011. Beginning in 2020, the European Union will also prohibit the use of BPA on receipt paper.

This bill bans BPA in paper receipts beginning Jan 1, 2024. Beginning January 1, 2025, the bill bans BPS in receipts, prohibits stores from giving consumers paper receipts unless requested.

Further, beginning Jan 1, 2026, requires businesses to only print paper receipts if the consumer opts to receive a printed receipt. Exempts businesses that make less than two million dollars annually and health care providers. It also establishes enforcement through civil penalties of up to $300 annually, brought by the Attorney General, a district attorney, a county counsel, or a city attorney. Businesses that are out of compliance with this law are afforded two warning citations before being given a penalty.

The enforcement provisions in this bill are identical to the mechanism in the State’s single-use plastic straw ban (AB 1884). Under the plastic straw ban, restaurants were required to stop giving out plastic straws as a default. Prior to the plastic straw ban, the state had enacted several other single-item bans. SB 270’s plastic bag ban imposes civil liability on a person or entity in the amount of $1,000 per day for the first violation, $2,000 per day for the second violation, and $5,000 per day for the third and subsequent violations. In the case of plastic six-pack rings, the state imposes an infraction and a fine not to exceed $1,000 on any person who sells or distributes these rings.

The SCV Chamber takes an active role in shaping legislative policies in support of business. We represent our members and provide a forum for our members to develop policy positions that directly impact the Santa Clarita Valley business community.

Our Government Affairs Council meets every second Wednesday of the month, from 10:30 AM – 12:00 PM and is open to all SCV Chamber members. The remaining GAC meetings will be September 13 and October 11. Please email hello@scvchamber.com if you have any questions or need further information.

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 Jewelry Fixx on your grand opening and celebration in August! Find out more at www.jewelryfixx.com.

Thank you to all that came to support them! Photo

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

Congratulations to Fun Burger on your grand opening and celebration in August! Find out more at www.funburger.com.

Thank you to all that came to support them! Photo

credit: Joie de Vivre Photographie

Field Rep Isabell Yaralian congratulates Jewerly Fixx owners on their grand opening/ribbon cutting. Photo credit: Joie de Vivre Photographie

credit: Joie de Vivre Photographie

Councilmember Laurene Weste congratulates Opal and Tony Roknipour on their grand opening/ribbon cutting. Photo credit: Joie de Vivre Photographie

Congratulations to Big Chicken on your grand opening. Find out more at www.bigchicken.com

UPCOMING EVENTS

InfluenceHER - Empowering the Next Generation of Women

September 12 | 4:00 pm

Join us for September’s InfluenceHER: Empowering the Next Generation of Women! Learn about the importance of empowering the next generation of women through education, community, and family.

Professors from COC will discuss their leadership experiences and share how quality education equips young women with crucial knowledge. Providing support, mentorship, and encouragement at the business, family and community levels uplifts girls and helps them develop a strong sense of self-worth and confidence that sets them up for future success in their careers and personal lives. All women are welcome! We hope to see you there!

Government Affairs Council

September 13 | 10:30 am

Our Government Affairs Council convenes monthly to discuss, review and take action on policy decisions at the local, county, state and federal levels. The SCV Chamber works on behalf of its members to maintain a healthy and vibrant business climate in what has been ranked one of the most business friendly cities in California. The Chamber takes an active role in shaping legislative policies in support of business. The Chamber represents its members before local, regional, state and federal governmental entities and provides a forum for its members to develop policy positions that impact the Santa Clarita Valley business community.

Non-Profit Council Lunch - A Board Members

Journey

September 19 | 11:30 am

Join us for a special Non-Profit Council luncheon, sponsored by LBW Insurance and Financial Services: A Board Member’s Journey: Strategies and Legal Tips for a Successful Board of Directors. In addition to lunch and networking, we will hear from two guest speakers who will present a comprehensive guide to Board Member evolution, from prospecting to cultivating, to asking them to join the board, to ending their term correctly.

Guest Speakers: Matt Kamin (Envision Consulting) & Patrick Anderson (The Law Firm for Non-Profits)

Seminar and Lunch are free to Non-Profit Board Chairs and Executive Directors.

Oak Tree Golf Classic

October 23 | All Day

Join us for our annual golf tournament as we head to Valencia Country Club. Join local businesses for a day on the course for some “friendly” competition. Awards will be handed out to the top three as well as last place! Sponsorships are available by emailing hello@scvchamber.com

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

www.SCVChamber.com/Events

Housing Market Numbers Down for July

BY PERRY SMITH SCV Business Journal Editor

The Southland Regional Association of Realtors released the July numbers for the Santa Clarita Valley, which indicate the number of new listings is down significantly over last year, as is the new number of escrows opened and the number of active listings.

There were 292 new listings in the month of July 2023, a decrease of about 32% over the same time last year, when there were 431 new listings, according to the SRAR.

It is an increase over June,

when there were 269 new listings.

The summer tends to be one of the busier times for the market, but relatively speaking, this July saw a decline all over the place, signaling the market has yet to recover from talk of the interest rate stabilizing for the time being. There were 187 new escrows opened this past month, but 263 during the same time last

year. That’s a decrease of the 230 that were on the market in June 2023.

In July, there were 200 new escrows closed, which is also down from the same time last year, when there were 285 escrows closed.

In terms of marklet stability, the median price was $800,000 last month, which is almost exactly even with the same time the previous year, when the median price was $799,000.

The current median singlefamily home price is $869,000 and the median condo sale price is $560,000.

In looking at the total year-

to-date sales volume for 2023, the value was $1.2 billion, which is down by a third over the same time last year, when it was $1.8 billion, which is down 12% over the previous year.

Homes that are moving seem to be moving faster over the same time last year — with the average time for a home to be on the market going from 20 days to 16 days.

The total supply for the market remains at a historic low, which only had 1.8 months of inventory in July. During the same time last year, the market had a little over a 2.6-month supply. 

The Santa Clarita Valley’s Priciest Listing

BY PERRY SMITH SCV Business Journal Editor

The Santa Clarita Valley’s most expensive listing this month is not just a home, it’s a vineyard.

Agua Dulce Winery at 9640 Sierra Highway is for sale, according to the Realtor representing the property, who described the 90 acres of land just north of the city of Santa Clarita as a “unicorn” property.

“It’s rare that a winery of this caliber becomes available, and being in such close proximity to Los Angeles makes this a unicorn,” said Adam Brawer of Adam Brawer Estates with Compass, which has the listing.

The property, which is just down the road from Reyes Winery, was built in 1987, according to its listing. The winery was advertising its arrival by fall of 2001 in the pages of The Signal.

Brawer said the owner, Barry Goldfarb, 78, of Bel Air, has had the property for about 13 years, and he’s looking to retire and perhaps move to an appellation a bit farther north in Paso Robles. The main home on the property has five bedrooms and four and three-quarters bathrooms in a colonial-style home with a remark-

able 26,000 square feet of livable area among all of the property’s structures, according to the listing, which also mentions a gourmet kitchen, a formal dining room and a decorative fireplace.

There are also additional structures on the lot, that include a barn and stable, as well as a detached guest house.

And sure, there’s probably some wine to be had, according to Brawer.

Brawer called its grapes competitive with Napa’s finest, particularly its syrah, “making this property a true trophy for a

wine aficionado.”

The Realtor also said the property had potential for business opportunity as well.

“There is tremendous upside to scale the business, including the production location and Airbnb verticals,” Brawer said.

A Zillow listing for the property indicates it has been on and off the market in recent years since January 2019, when it went up for $11.8 million. 

The 90-acre vineyard in Agua Dulce includes 26,000-square-feet of living space, a 10,000-square-foot bottling facility and a 10,500-square-foot wine cellar and storage building, according to the Realtor on the listing. COURTESY PHOTO

Safeguarding Your Legacy: Navigating Life Insurance in Retirement

IVY PIERSON Founder and Investment Advisor Representative Pierson Wealth Management

Life Insurance Awareness

Month (LIAM), observed every September, serves as a timely reminder for retirees to evaluate their life insurance needs. During retirement, reduced income streams and increased vulnerability to unforeseen expenses make life insurance a crucial element in any comprehensive retirement plan. It acts as a safety net, providing financial protection for your spouse, children, or beneficiaries in the event of your passing.

By participating in LIAM and seeking advice from qualified financial advisors, retirees can make informed decisions about life insurance. It provides an opportunity to secure your financial legacy and ensure your loved ones are protected long after you’ve passed. Life insurance can be a versatile part of your financial plan:

Income Protection: It offers additional income for loved ones to cover funeral costs, final expenses, remaining debts, and essential living costs after your passing.

Maximizing Your Legacy: Many purchase life insurance to leave a meaningful inheritance for loved ones, maximizing assets for heirs and providing tax-free funds. It can also be donated to charitable organizations, naming them as owners or beneficiaries.

Long-Term Care Costs: Policyowners may utilize life insurance to cover long-term care expenses through hybrid life/LTC plans or

accelerated death benefits.

Addressing life insurance needs during this stage ensures a secure and confident retirement journey for both you and your loved ones. For personalized insight and guidance on your unique situation, contact us today 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 CA Insurance Lic#0I32305), member FINRA/SIPC, a broker/ dealer and a Registered Investment Adviser. Cetera is under separate ownership from any other named entity. Ivy Pierson 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.

The cost and availability of life insurance depend on factors such as age, health, and the type and amount of insurance purchased. Before implementing a strategy involving life insurance, it would be prudent to make sure that you are insurable by having the policy approved. As with most financial decisions, there are expenses associated with the purchase of life insurance. Policies commonly have mortality and expense charges. In addition, if a policy is surrendered prematurely, there may be surrender charges and income tax implications.  

MBA

MISSION VALLEY

Continued from page 7

planning, and exit strategies. These junctures, characterized by complexity and emotional intensity, benefit from the supportive guidance of trusted advisors.

Gurney expounded on the evolving nature of the advisor-client relationship, highlighting how, over time, the interplay between business owners and their advisors matures. “As business owners gain more experience and expertise, they may require different types of guidance and support. By staying in communication and working together, both parties can ensure that the relationship remains productive and beneficial.”

Anticipating the trajectory ahead, the role of trusted advisors is poised to amplify in significance, as businesses grapple with fresh challenges and opportunities. The whirlwind pace of technological

evolution, shifting regulatory terrains, and economic unpredictability underpin the demand for guidance that can shepherd businesses through these complexities.

Access to Financing, Tools and Resources

While cultivating a relationship with a bank ranks foremost in importance, other facets of financial management warrant contemplation, commencing with access to financing. Enterprises often necessitate loans or lines of credit to fuel operations, expand, or manage cash flow. The right bank can present an array of financing options calibrated to the specific requisites, nurturing the realization of business objectives.

For businesses that process credit card transactions, securing a merchant account is imperative. Opting for a bank equipped with merchant

services streamlines the payment acceptance process and transaction management. Moreover, bundling these services with the business banking account can yield favorable credit card processing fee rates.

In the era of online banking and digital tools, selecting a bank that endorses modern and convenient banking services is crucial. This encompasses online and mobile banking as well as access to digital tools that heighten financial management efficiency, culminating in time and cost savings over the long term.

Another pivotal consideration in the bank selection process is customer service. Collaborating with a bank known for high-level customer service expedites issue resolution and can help resolve any concerns quickly and efficiently.

The Perfect Fit

Having a relationship with your banker is invaluable, as a good banker can serve as a Trusted Advisor who is invested in the growth and success of your business.

There is tremendous value in working with a clientfocused, relationship-driven bank who will invest the time necessary to get to know your business and understand its unique needs, according to Gurney. “By developing long-term relationships with bankers who demonstrate expertise, experience, and dedication to your success, you can set your business up for lasting success.”

Founded in 2001, Mission Valley Bank stands as an independent community business bank based in Sun Valley,

California, with a full-service branch office in Santa Clarita. With a resolute commitment to localized service, the bank caters to a diverse spectrum of businesses, aligning its trajectory with the prosperity of the businesses it serves. “Your success is our mission” is not only the bank’s tagline but, more importantly, its philosophy.

Mission Valley Bank and its employees are active in the communities they serve. Gurney herself serves on several community development, trade associations, and nonprofit boards including the College of the Canyons Foundation Board where she currently serves as past chairwoman. Other directorships include the Santa Clarita Valley Economic Development Corporation, The Valley Economic Alliance, Community Foundation of the Valleys, Federal Reserve Bank Community Depository Institutions Advisory Council, and Past President of the California Independent Bankers Association.

Through the Give Where You Live initiative, several local nonprofits benefit from increased exposure funded by the bank’s marketing efforts. Carousel Ranch, College of the Canyons Foundation, Child and Family Center, Boys and Girls Club of Santa Clarita Valley, Santa Clarita Valley Family YMCA, and the Samuel Dixon Family Health Centers are just a few of the nonprofits the bank supports.

For more information visit www.MissionValleyBank.com or call (818) 394-2300. 

Mission Valley Bank President and CEO Tamara Gurney

Going the Extra Mile: TEAMWORK

BY PAUL BUTLER SCVBJ Contributing Writer

Apparently about one billion people globally watched the women’s soccer world cup final recently. I was sad to see my country of birth (England), lose to Spain but yet, immensely proud the “lionesses” as they’re referred to, made it all the way to the final.

This set me thinking about teamwork in today’s workplace. My observation has been that most teams don’t work. I would regard most teams as mediocre at best. At the root of sub-optimal teams, is always ineffective leadership. I see a parallel with parenting — when we have dysfunctional, disrespectful and disobedient children, we have to look at the parenting. Likewise, when I see poor teamwork, we have to look at the quality of the leadership.

There have been so many times over the last 17 years when we, at Newleaf Training and Development have been contacted by leaders who ask if we do “teambuilding” or whether we can “inject some energy into the team”, or most recently we were asked to “rally the troops.” Our findings have proven the majority of the time, the root of the issue is poor leadership and by helping fix that the team tends to flourish. As an analogy — it’s as if leadership is the root of the tree. The performance of the team, is like the quality of the fruit when the root is healthy.

Coming back to soccer — there’s an indisputable correlation between the results of the team and the quality of

the coach’s leadership. I am reminded of the late great England soccer coach Sir Alf Ramsey who guided England to win the world cup in 1966. When asked by a reporter about the intensity of his leadership. He responded by saying, “A lot of people say to me: “Alf, why take soccer so seriously — it’s not a matter of life and death”. I tell them, “You’re right — it’s much more important than that!” If only, more leaders had at least 10% of the verve that the late Sir Alf Ramsey had.

The closest I’ve seen a leader come to the “Alfie Standard” (as I call it) is within a leader called Nate. I won’t give his last name or call out the name of his employer but in my opinion, he is perhaps one of the best team leaders we’ve had the honor of partnering with as a training and development company. Nate has the intensity of Alf Ramsey but like Alf, in a humble manner. I have never heard Nate shout at his team. He works hard and unsurprisingly; his team also works very hard. He is very respectful towards each member of team.

Even when he has to make tough decisions (such as laying someone off, or moving duties around) I have witnessed the way he does what he needs to do — honorably. Nate doesn’t have favorites — I’m sure he prefers socializing with some team members

more than others, but you wouldn’t see any such microinequities with Nate. Just like a good soccer coach, Nate is laser-focused on the team’s performance. He knows the lead measures — those 3 to 5, key performance indicators most likely to predict his team will “win”. Nate celebrates success, but he doesn’t hog the limelight. I have personally observed his team “win” big time yet you’ll not see Nate

front and center. Where you will find Nate is on the sideline, applauding his team for a job well done.

So, it may be the final whistle on the women’s soccer world cup competition at least for another four years but in the meantime, if we’re leaders of teams or owners of businesses we can endeavor to be the best coaches we can be. Remember, the quality of the fruit; (your team’s results) is directly related the healthiness of the root of your leadership. As employees or entrepreneurs, we invest so much time at work, why not choose to make the bets contribution you can? Our work is not just a matter of life and death — it’s much more important than that! 

City Earns Government Finance Award

The city of Santa Clarita has received the Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting from the Government Finance Officers Association of the United States and Canada for its annual comprehensive financial report for fiscal year 2021-22. This year marks the 34th consecutive year that the city has received this award.

“The Certificate of Achievement is the

highest form of recognition in governmental accounting and financial reporting,” wrote Michele Mark Levine, director of the Technical Services Center of the GFOA, according to a news release from the city.

The annual comprehensive financial report was judged by an impartial panel to meet the high standards of the program, the release said. This included demonstrating a constructive “spirit of full disclosure” to clearly communicate its financial story and motivate potential

users and user groups to read the report. The GFOA is a professional association servicing the needs of 21,000 federal, local, state and provincial-level government finance officials and other finance practitioners.

For more information about the Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting, contact Finance Manager Brittany Houston at bhouston@ santa-clarita.com or by phone at 661-2554996. 

Widower Continues Wife’s Work on Bullying

BY RYLEE HOLWAGER Signal Staff Writer

Ella Van Fleet was a teacher of entrepreneurship and small business management. One day her students raised the issue of problems in the workplace, disgruntled employees, customers and management.

These issues were complex and she wanted to give her students a thorough answer.

She quickly realized that the issues they presented were so much more than a few sentences.

What they had presented to

her was the idea for a book, specifically a handbook analyzing bullying and harassment in the workplace.

The concept was so full of detail that she recruited her husband, David Van Fleet, to help her compile topics, figures, prompts and examples in efforts to prevent bullying and harassment in the workplace.

The two began day-by-day working on the book together.

That was until Ella Van Fleet died in 2022.

David made the choice to continue the work they had started and finish it.

“To honor her memory,” said David.

“Bullying and Harassment at Work: An Innovative Approach to Understanding and Prevention,” explores bullying, harassment and unacceptable workplace behaviors while diving deeper into variables of the behaviors and why some employees become victims or bullies. The book also details that managers, management and employees can all be the source of the problem. A few of the topics include: bullying, harassment, when management is the problem, workplace violence, individual actions and organizational responsibility.

When The Signal asked Da-

vid why he felt that the topics he details in the book were important to put into writing, he said, “Why is it important? Because it’s still happening.”

“The biggest thing is I think people need to feel safe at work, anything that decreases their feeling of comfort at work is something to be avoided,” said David.

Those interested in purchasing “Bullying and Harassment at Work: An Innovative Approach to Understanding and Prevention” can do so at tinyurl.com/yrepr7hd. 

A Business Oasis in Southern California

HOLLY SCHROEDER President & CEO of SCVEDC

After 10 years with the Santa Clarita Valley Economic Development Corporation (SCVEDC,) I am moving on to pursue new career opportunities. It has been a great pleasure over these past few years to provide readers of Elite with information about the Santa Clarita Valley economy, new companies coming to town, and opportunities for residents to work locally. Economic development is of vital importance to the Santa Clarita Valley: we can’t leave our future economy to chance. The Santa Clarita Valley Economic Development Corporation was created as a public-private partnership for just that reason - to put definitive, deliberate effort towards creating a resilient economy. That strong economy will help us maintain the quality of life we hold so dear long into the future.

SCVEDC focuses on attracting companies with high-paying, career path jobs in industries such as entertainment, aerospace, technology, advanced manufacturing, and biotech. I’m pleased that during my tenure at SCVEDC, companies in each of these sectors have joined the SCV business community. Notable additions include the headquarters of Logix Federal Credit Union and Vallarta Supermarkets, Crissair, Avita Medical, Elite Media Technologies, DrinkPAK, and so many more.

These companies are critical members of the SCV economy, not to mention the broader US economy, as these are national if not global companies. I encourage SCV residents to continue to learn about the companies in their hometown. SCVEDC provides resources for this through its podcast, SCV Means Business. Residents might also consider working for these companies, which might reduce their commute, not to mention their stress. SCVEDC offers a SCV-focused job board, www.LiveWorkSCV.com.

The prospects for SCV’s economy remain strong. While we are of course subject to macroeconomic forces, SCV has local dynamics that bode well for it. Homebuilding will continue to drive economic growth, not to mention needed housing supply. While industrial building supply is currently limited, new industrial buildings are in the pipeline, with the first new inventory arriving in early 2024. This affords us the opportunity to bring more great companies

to SCV. SCVEDC’s Economic Outlook conference, held on September 15, 2023, issues a comprehensive economic forecast that is unique to SCV, with details on our local employment, real estate, demographic, and new development dynamics.

SCV residents should be proud of the intentional work being done to secure SCV’s economic future. It has been an honor to serve the community I live in. I leave knowing that the organization, and SCV, have great opportunities ahead. 

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 3,352.99 and the average price per share was $111.79. This month the index is 3,423.88 up 70.89 or 2.1.% for an average share price of $ 114.13.

Economic DEvElopmEnt corporation

The Importance of Industry Partnerships in Manufacturing

BY HOLLY SCHROEDER

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

Growing out of renewed federal policy to promote and prioritize manufacturing, the AMCC (American Manufacturing Communities Collaborative) supports communities in growing manufacturing ecosystems. Chief among the work group’s recommendations is establishing a statewide manufacturing council to coordinate activities and strategize around funding opportunities to strengthen the state’s manufacturing sector. It creates a community across the country to share best practices and foster six key components: Workforce and Training, Research and Innovation, Infrastructure and Site Development, Supply Chain Support, Trade and International Investment, Operational Improvement and Capital Access.

The Santa Clarita Valley recently hosted an AMCC Road Show, where participants toured the COC Advanced Technology Center and learned about how partnerships in the SCV support local manufacturers. Participants identi-

Econo Watch

fied best practices from SCV that could become models for other communities, such as its training academy for the uniquely abled (UAA) and its Aerospace and Defense Consortium. To gain a deeper understanding of SCV manufacturing, participants toured Classic Wire Cut, a supplier to the medical device industry, and Bay Center Foods, a highly automated food processing facility.

It’s part of the SCVEDC’s mission to attract, retain, and expand priority clusters, which includes manufacturing. To that end we ensured representation from local, state, and federal partners: College of the Canyons, city of Santa Clarita (Mayor Gibbs), William S. Hart Union High School District, USC Price Center for Economic Development1, LAEDC, AMCC, California Forward (CAFwd), EDA and Connex Marketplace. Collaborations like this help create an open forum for resource sharing and help strengthen crucial relationships for manufacturers, policy makers, and community advocacy organizations like the SCVEDC. Connex Marketplace can be a very helpful tool for SCV manufacturers given the rising cost of goods and persistent

supply chain issues. Connex is an online platform that connects all U.S. manufacturers and suppliers into a single, accurate, searchable supply-chain solution. It’s not just another broker platform but a revolutionary new way for U.S. manufacturers and suppliers to find, be found, connect, and do business with each other.

Other organizations like CMTC (California Manufacturing Technology Consulting) have supply chain experts that will work with you to understand your needs and match you with companies with a high potential to provide you with the right supply chain solutions. Once we provide you with a match, businesses and suppliers are responsible for communicating directly to purchase products. This is a co-investment referral program led by CMTC at no cost.

To learn more about the American Manufacturing Communities Collaborative, and the other organizations they work with in manufacturing, visit them at https://americanmcc.org/. 

The 2023 Assessment Roll for Santa Clarita

BY JEFF PRANG Los Angeles County Assessor

It’s that time of year again when my office undertakes its most important function of the fiscal year that lays the groundwork for the very property taxes that pay for our vital public services: The Assessment Roll. In fact, it’s a Constitutional mandate.

The roll for 2023 has been closed as of June 30 and it reflects growth for Santa Clarita as well as the rest of the county.

First off, let me say this comprehensive tally values more than 2.5 million real estate parcels in Los Angeles County and results in the very tax dollars that goes to pay for vital public services, such as healthcare, police, fire, schools, and even librarians, to name just a few. As I mentioned, I am constitutionally mandated to close the Roll by the end of the Fiscal Year on June 30. As a point of reference, my Fiscal Year runs from July 1 to June 30.

I am pleased to announce that the 2023 Assessment Roll has a total net value of $1.997 trillion, indicating

the 13th year of consecutive growth. The 2023 Roll also grew by $111 billion (or 5.91%) over 2022. That value places nearly $20 billion to be used for those public services I just mentioned.

Locally, Santa Clarita for 2023 came in at $44.85 billion for taxable values, which is a 8.5% increase over last year’s numbers. That includes 65,156 single-family homes, 493 apartment complexes, 4,692 commercial-industrial parcels for a grand total of 70,341 taxable properties. Yes, it’s a solid growth at $44.85 billion.

Some basics: “The Roll,” as it is 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 commercial-industrial parcels.

This year’s roll comprises 2.58 million real estate parcels as well as business assessments countywide. That includes 1,892,564 single-family homes, 250,511 apartment complexes, 248,123 commercial and industrial properties and more than 200,000 business property assessments.

Since the roll is the inventory for all taxable property in the county, it can provide some insight into the health of the real estate market. The roll is also driven in large measure by real property sales, which added $67.4 billion to the roll as compared with 2022; the CPI adjustment mandated by Proposition 13 added an additional $36.7 bil-

lion; and new construction added $5.6 billion.

Finally, to say this has been a challenging couple of years is an understatement and the fact that property values continue to grow is certainly good news and testament to the viability of the region.

A full list of assessment growth amounts and parcel counts for cities and unincorporated areas is available here.

Los Angeles County Assessor Jeff Prang has been in office since 2014, was re-elected in 2018 and 2022. 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 nearly1,300 employees. It also provides the foundation for a property tax system that generates about $20 billion for public services annually.