You Can Still Finish the Year Strong
BY KEN KELLER SCVBJ Contributing Writer
Fall symbolizes the coming to a close of the year.
With two months remaining, hope is available that great things can still take place; that breakthrough relationships, products and possibilities can surface and hard work will yield results to be harvested.
Ten months gone in 2024, now is the time for CEOs to push people and processes into high gear.
The biggest shame to befall any CEO is to begin a new year with the goal of having the year end in a better place, and then face the brutal facts at year end that the business is in worse condition than when the year started.
Ask five questions to check how far, or not, your company has progressed:
1. Are we still selling plain ice cream? Continuing to sell a “me too” commodity like everyone else does only leads to shrinking margins. Many companies get into the trap of selling only on price because they have not correctly positioned themselves in the market, but more importantly, because there is no viable reason for a buyer to pay more.
The turnaround can still take place in the remaining time left in the year. Breakthrough companies are always on the hunt for a more compelling competitive advantage and the search for higher margins by developing or tweaking products that are worthy of a higher price.
Lock your brainpower in a room until this opportunity had been completely addressed.
2. What have you done to retain the best and engage or replace the rest? Every business is based on the quality of the people in it.
The challenge of the CEO is to retain the very best managers and to engage as many employees as possible.
A superior management team is one that is capable of executing quickly, effectively and efficiently. An engaged workforce of employees make the difference in providing customer care over and above what is expected.
If there are people working in your company that don’t care about their employer, why should you keep them on the payroll? Free them to find work elsewhere.
3. Why are you hesitating paying for performance?
Good people are an investment in the future of a company. Give people the opportunity to earn a return on what they deliver.
The issue with many pay for performance programs is that they do not extend deep enough into the organization, thereby creating deep chasms between departments. This creates anger, frustration, a lack of teamwork and misalignment.
When the team wins, the entire team should be rewarded.
4. Are you really leading from the front? Winning teams have standout leaders displaying over whelming display of enthusiasm and energy. They are authentic, displaying vulnerabilities and are not afraid to admit when they have made a
mistake. Most important, they are visible and accessible. It’s all about you transferring enthusiasm to your team.
5. Finally, is everyone aligned? The responsibility of every CEO is to define what winning is for the company, each team and individual in it; providing the tools and the atmosphere to win, and to keep the team focused and moving towards winning.
I have discovered that far too many in leadership and management don’t take the time to educate employees why what they do is important and how they impacts others. Invest the time to get people working together towards common goals so they can help their company, your company, win.
2024 is far from over.
Prostate Cancer: How to Lower Your Risk
WBy Patrick Moody Henry Mayo Newhall Hospital
hile there’s no surefire way to prevent prostate cancer, research suggests that risk for the disease may be affected by lifestyle habits and certain medicines.
Prostate cancer is the most common cancer in men in the U.S. The cancer often doesn’t have any symptoms, so the only way to find it early is through screening—either with a digital rectal exam or a blood test called a prostatespecific antigen (PSA) test. You can learn about prostate cancer screening, including screening guidelines, at henrymayo.com/prostate.
If you’re concerned about getting prostate cancer as you get older, talking with your doctor about your risk is a good way to protect yourself. But that may not be all that you can do. You can also learn about actions you can take that may decrease your chances of getting prostate cancer or dying from the disease.
THREE MOVES THAT MIGHT HELP LOWER RISK
Check out the following steps that may offer some prostate cancer protection. Some of these actions could help keep you healthy in other ways too.
1. Improve your diet. While research hasn’t unequivocally proved the role of diet in prostate cancer risk, some evidence suggests that diets high in fat may be a factor. That may be particularly true if the fat comes from animal sources. For cancer protection in general, the American Cancer Society (ACS) suggests limiting fats from red meat, particularly high-fat and processed meats, and focusing on more plant foods—including a variety of fruits and vegetables.
2. Watch your weight and stay active. An unhealthy weight may boost your chances of being diagnosed with a more aggressive prostate tumor. In part, this may be because too many pounds increase levels of certain hormones and causes chronic inflammation, both of which can promote cancer growth, according to the American Institute for Cancer Research.
Eating healthy and exercising regularly can help you reach and maintain a healthy weight. Exercising also helps reduce inflammation— that’s another way it may help provide prostate cancer protection.
3. Talk with your doctor about medicines. Studies suggest that finasteride and dutasteride may help reduce a man’s risk of prostate cancer by up to 25%. These drugs lower male hormone levels. However, these medications can cause sexual side effects. And they’re not approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for prostate cancer prevention.
If you want to learn more about these medicines, you should discuss the potential risks and benefits with your doctor.
THE BIG PICTURE
There’s no guarantee that any of the steps listed above will prevent prostate cancer. Also, the most important risk factors—being older than 50, being African American or having a family history of the disease—can’t be controlled.
But you may want to discuss some of these ideas with your doctor and learn the potential signs of prostate cancer, such as frequent or difficult urination.
Dog Haus, Pinkberry Among New Additions
DEVELOPING STORIES
BY PERRY SMITH SCV Business Journal Editor
While the city of Santa Clarita said farewell to its long-running swap meet this past month, there’s plenty of new and exciting developments coming soon to the SCV, which we’ll talk about a little bit.
The city of Santa Clarita is adding a few new dining options to go with some new housing options that are on the horizon for local residents, as City Hall in recent weeks has found itself struggling to get desirable projects approved while meeting the state’s mandates regarding housing infrastructure.
The Santa Clarita City Council made a deal with a housing developer that will pave the way for the project’s final approval in November for a project that will bring nearly 320 market-rate homes and about 3 acres of warehouse space, where the Santa Clarita Swap Meet met.
In the city’s Regional Housing Needs Assessment, a five-year plan the city gets approved by the state every five years, planners “contemplated” a potential for approximately 700 homes there, a mix of low- to moderate-income housing, as well.
The plan submitted by Integral Communities, which is being built by Lennar Corp., was identified by the applicant as the building partner, only called for about two dozen moderately priced homes. In exchange, Peter Vanek, principal for Integral Communities, agreed to spend about a half-million dollars on projects in the city — $250,000 toward a trail that would connect the project to Ruether Avenue; $100,000 into the city’s low-income housing fund; and $150,000 toward the restoration of the Pardee House, planned to become a museum as part of the Santa Clarita History Center in William S. Hart Park.
The project is not far from another project expected to bring thousands of homes to the SCV near the Transit Center, which is called Sunridge. There’s more on that in the residential real es-
tate review.
Going back to the marketplace, there’s a couple of kitchens to check out in the coming months.
The first is Spuntino’s, which is slated for 22520 Lyons Ave. in Newhall, which would place it next to the Laemmle Theater and part of Newhall Crossings development.
There’s only one other location of the same name, which appears to operate in Temecula and offer traditional Italian fare. It is a fantastic location central to a lot of activity in the area.
In the Golden Valley shopping center, which has been a hotbed of activity, there are two new popular spots that have been greenlit by City Hall.
Both options started right here in Los Angeles County.
The first is a Dog Haus, which is going in at 19013 Golden Valley Road, which is right around the corner from The Kebab Shop, just northwest of Lost Canyon Road.
Dog Haus started in 2010 in Pasadena. There are now more than 100 locations in a number of states, according to its website.
Dog Haus says its claim to fame is its signature all-beef Haus Dogs and handcrafted proprietary Haus Sausages, and that it only uses Black Angus beef from Creekstone Farms.
And then after you wolf down a Dog
Haus, right next door is a Pinkberry. Pinkberry was in the SCV for a while, left and then came back. The froyo spot with a West Hollywood origin story touts its fresh fruit offerings and tart flavors.
If you’re able to step away from the table after all of that, it might be a good idea to take the little ones out for some play.
Superstarz Academy at 23862 Copper Hill Road promises to offer another muchneeded child-care venue for young Santa Clarita Valley families,
With child-care options that start at just a few months old, Superstarz offers a number of educational programs for the little ones, according to its website.
“At the heart of our daycare center lies a strong foundation built upon three core values: Nurturing, Fun, and Safety,” according to its website.
There are also a few remodeling efforts that are going on around town and might be noticed by the keen observer.
Wendy’s on Lyons Avenue isn’t going anywhere, it’s just getting a remodel — the square patties are safe.
There also will be some renovations again at the Walmart on Carl Boyer Drive, as well as the Vons at Sand Canyon, which is also an area that’s seen quite a bit of activity lately, including our featured listing..
The Golden Valley Plaza shopping center has seen a number of new additions in recent months. PHOTO BY KATHERINE QUEZADA / THE SIGNAL
A Look At Santa Clarita’s Next 10,000 Homes
BY PERRY SMITH SCV Business Journal Editor
One thing is for certain: The Santa Clarita Valley is positioned for growth over the next few years, and while the state of California might have a housing crisis, there could be close to 10,000 new homes in the area by the end of the decade based on planning figures.
That might sound like a wild estimate and a hard to imagine figure — the current population of Castaic is only about 18,000 residents — but it’s pretty close to the number of homes being looked at by the city of Santa Clarita’s Planning Division right now, according to recent discussion at Santa Clarita City Hall.
Looking out toward the horizon, here are just a few of the developments in store for the city that are expected to help city planners approach the state’s goal for the area, which is part of Gov. Gavin Newsom’s plan to make 2.5 million units available by 2030.
Sunridge
Back in September, the city of Santa Clarita proposed an agreement to study the feasibility for the development of 6,500 homes on a 980-acre property south of Soledad Canyon Road, east of Railroad Avenue and west of Golden Valley Road.
“There are no applications for the Sunridge Project, but we expect a submittal in the near future,” according to a statement Friday by Jason Crawford, director of development for the city of Santa Clarita.
The property formerly was known as the Whittaker-Bermite site, the site previously was home to a toxic waste that was part of a decadeslong cleanup effort.
Now that the site has been cleared for development, a developer is looking to see what can be done with the land.
The current proposal for the property is more than double the original number of homes slated for the land when it was pitched as Porta Bella Specific Plan.
The developer is proposing to extend two of the three roads that cut through the area. Also expected to be part of the development is a championship youth sports facility on adjacent city property;
a community/cultural center on the adjacent city property; and open space dedications, including new trails.
Town Center homes
After more than a year of outreach, the city of Santa Clarita approved a framework for future development of the mall in June.
Like most of the plans, they’re being treated as a closely guarded secret until their public reveal. The repeatedly stated goal for the area has been a destination shopping experience a la the Irvine Spectrum Center, which is also located just off Interstate 5, about 80 miles directly southeast.
The city’s hope is it’s created a framework that outlasts current marketing trends and remains useful to the city for decades, according to Dave Peterson, the city’s senior planner who led the project.
The 111-acre property is expected to have 600,000 square feet of shopping as well as roughly 2,200 apartment/condominium units, with a “strong encouragement” for the developer to make 20% of them affordable housing.
“There are no applications for the Town Center, but (city planners) anticipate a project submittal by Centennial over the next few months,” Crawford said, referring to the property owner.
These two projects put the city up to about 8,700 — but wait, there’s more, as the famous line goes.
In The Works; On the Horizon
Over the summer, the city’s Planning Commission also heard from residents about a plan for the former Smiser Mule Ranch, off Wiley Canyon Road between Hawkbryn Avenue and Calgrove Boulevard, which would bring another nearly 600 units to the area.
The developer is proposing a 379-unit mixed-use development and a senior living facility with another 217 units.
Last month, the Santa Clarita City Council allowed Tesoro Del Valle builder Lennar more time to complete the Copper Hill bridge widening on the 1,786acre west-side development.
The second phase, Tesoro Highlands, calls for 820 homes, some of which are already under construction. The builder also just received permission to add another 108 market-rate senior homes to the existing 254 agreed to in the plan, and it’s because the developer is ready to build more of the units sooner, according to the city.
The Santa Clarita City Council recently made the first step for the approval of 318 homes for roughly 35 acres at the site of the former Santa Clarita Swap Meet at Saugus Speedway.
Just down the road, closer to Solemint and Soledad Canyon Road, a developer has proposed River Walk, which calls for 150 two-story townhomes.
A development being proposed off Wiley Canyon Road near Interstate 5 could bring nearly 600 more homes to the Santa Clarita Valley. This is a rendering of the proposed view of the project from the south. Courtesy
2025 California Residential Housing Forecast
BY CALIFORNIA ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS®
Amore favorable interest rate environment that will loosen up the “lock-in” effect and improve housing inventory will encourage buyers and sellers to return to the market to boost both home sales and prices next year, according to a housing and economic.
The baseline scenario of C.A.R.’s “2025 California Housing Market Forecast” sees an increase in existing single-family home sales of 10.5 percent next year to reach 304,400 units, up from the projected 2024 sales figure of 275,400. The projected 2024 figure is 6.8 percent higher compared with the pace of 257,900 homes sold in 2023.
The California median home price is forecast to rise 4.6 percent to $909,400 in 2025, following a projected 6.8 percent increase to $869,500 in 2024 from $814,000 in 2023. A persistent housing shortage and a competitive housing market will continue to put upward pressure on home prices next year.
“An increase in homes for sale, along with lower borrowing costs, is expected to entice more buyers and sellers to enter the market in 2025,” said C.A.R. President Melanie Barker, a Yosemite REALTOR®.
“Demand will grow as we start the year with the lowest interest rates in more than two years, particularly for first-time buyers. Meanwhile, would-be home sellers, held back by the “lock-in effect,” will have more flexibility to pursue a home that better suits their needs as mortgage rates continue to decline.”
C.A.R.’s 2025 forecast predicts the U.S. gross domestic product to slip to 1.1% in 2025, after a projected increase of 1.9% in 2024. With California’s 2025 nonfarm job growth rate at 1.1%, down from a projected 1.5% in 2024, the state’s unemployment rate will inch up to 5.6% in 2025 from 2024’s projected rate of 5.4%.
Inflation will moderate further over the next 12 months, with the CPI registering an annual average of 2.0% in 2025, down from 2.9% in 2024. As such, the average 30-year, fixed mortgage interest rate will decline from 6.6% in 2024 to 5.9% in 2025. While next year’s projected average for the 30-year fixed mortgage interest rate will be higher than the levels observed in the few years prior to the pandemic, it will still be lower than the long-run average of nearly 8% in the past 50 years.
Housing supply conditions will continue to improve next year, but a moderate increase rather than a surge in active listings should be expected in 2025. In the next 18 months, interest rates will decline, the lock-in effect will loosen up further, and more properties will be released onto the market. Homeowners who have delayed moving and investors who have been waiting for a market bounce-back will put their properties up on the market as they see the rising trend in home prices as an opportunity to sell. While supply in 2025 will remain below the norm by historical standards, active listings will increase slightly above 10% as market conditions and lending environment continue to improve.
SCV Water Continues To Support Local Businesses with Water Champions Program
By Dr. Kevin Bolder AuD, Audiology Associates
Take Advantage of “The Great Leak Sweep,” a Free Water-use Efficiency Service for SCV Businesses
Earlier this year, SCV Water launched its Water Champions Program, focused on supporting local businesses as they prioritize efficient water use as part of their overall operations. The initiative provides businesses with information about programs and resources geared toward water efficiency and gives them an opportunity to showcase their water conservation leadership to the community.
“With the initial launch of our Water Champions program this past spring, we were able to start a conversation with over 1,600 of our business customers about water use, reducing inefficiencies
and waste, and how to implement water-saving habits,” said SCV Water Sustainability Manager Matt Dickens. “Of those commercial customers, 137 took the next step by participating in The Great Leak Sweep, SCV Water’s free water-use efficiency check-up for businesses.”
The Great Leak Sweep (part of the Water Champions Program) is a free service that helps businesses save water by detecting and fixing leaks; supplying water-saving devices (if needed); identifying other water savings opportunities to help lower water bills; and providing rebate and water-saving resource information. Upon completion of the check-up, participants are provided with a Water Champion decal to display in the front window of their business.
“More recently, this past September, WaterWise visited an additional 364 local businesses and completed 57 checkups,” said SCV Water Conservation Specialist Dolores Campos. “These businesses are setting a positive example in the community, and we look forward to adding more Water Champions as the program continues to grow.”
CALLING ALL WATER CHAMPIONS
If your business has completed the free WaterWise check-up and you’ve received your Water Champions decal, SCV Water wants to hear from you! We would love to showcase your water conservation leadership in our community. To be featured on our website and in our program outreach efforts, please contact Conservation Specialist Dolores Campos at 661-513-1216 or conservation@scvwa.org for more information.
SIGN UP FOR A FREE CHECK-UP
If your business would like to participate in the Great Leak Sweep and get a free water-use efficiency check-up, please contact WaterWise Consulting, Inc.* at info@waterwise-consulting. com. The service is voluntary and is provided to SCV businesses at no cost.
For more information, visit: yourSCVwater. com/water-champions.
* WaterWise is a conservation consultant contracted through SCV Water. They are professional representatives trained in water use efficiency.
Become a Water Champion!
WATER WATER CHAMPION
Wa•ter Cham•pi•on Someone who enthusiastically supports and prioritizes water use efficiency now so that we have a reliable supply for generations to come; an advocate.
The
Great Leak Sweep ATTENTION
LOCAL BUSINESSES
SCV Water is offering a FREE water-use efficiency check-up!
A water expert can visit your business to:
• Check for toilet leaks and install new flappers as needed
• Install new high efficiency bathroom and kitchen aerators, and pre-rinse spray valves
• Provide a push broom for cleaning up the exterior of your business
• Provide information on available SCV Water rebates and incentive programs
• Supply EPA WaterSense training materials on methods to conserve water at your business
Upon completion of the check-up, participants will be provided with a Water Champion decal to display in the front window of their business.
Participation
Email WaterWise* at info@waterwise-consulting.com to schedule a survey. For more information, contact our Conservation department at 661-513-1216 or email conservation@scvwa.org
To learn more, visit yourSCVwater.com/waterchampions
Pre-Order Your 2025 California Employ ment Posters Today!
As we approach the new year, the importance of staying compliant with labor laws cannot be overstated. We are here to help! We are excited to announce that we are offering the latest 2025 California and Federal Labor Law posters, which are required for every business.
Why You Need to Act Now
Starting January 1, 2025, all businesses must display updated Employment Notices Posters in every location and job site. Failure to do so could result in significant penalties—up to $17,000 in fines! Whether you employ one person or a large team, ensuring compliance is crucial.
Our all-in-one poster includes all 18 mandatory notices in one convenient display, making it easy for you to meet the legal requirements.
Exclusive Discounts for Chamber Members
All valued members of our Chamber of Commerce are eligible for special discounts on your order. This is a fantastic opportunity to save money while ensuring your business is compliant with the latest labor laws.
How to Order
Placing your order is simple! Just send an email to hello@scvchamber.com and we will reach out to you with details.
Posters are available in paper or laminated format, as well as in English and Spanish.
Please note that if more than **5% of your employees** use English as a second language, you are required to display a Spanish version of the poster as well.
Don’t delay! Protect your business and take advantage of the member discounts offered through your chamber membership. Order your updated Employment Notices Posters today and ensure your business remains compliant!
For any questions or further assistance, feel free to reach out. We’re here to support you!
Chamber News
Ivan Volschenk Graduates from U.S. Chamber Foundation Education and Work force Fellowship Program
In September, Ivan Volschenk, President/CEO of the the SCV Chamber graduated from the ninth cohort of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation’s premier business leadership program, the Business Leads Fellowship Program.
The Business Leads Fellowship Program trains and equips leaders from state and local chambers of commerce,
economic development agencies, and trade associations with resources, access to experts, and a network of peers to build their capacity to address the most pressing education and workforce challenges.
The US Chamber of Commerce Foundation Business Leads Fellowship Program was created in response to the needs of the state and local chamber partners. Understanding that the local partners are critical in the link between education and economic development.
Following a competitive application and selection process, Ivan Volschenk was selected along with 34 other state and local chamber executives, economic development professionals, and association leaders to participate in the ninth cohort of this program.
The six-month program, consisting of both in person and virtual meetings, covered the entire talent pipeline, including early childhood education, K-12, postsecondary education, and workforce development.
Upon graduation, Business Leads Fellows join the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation’s dedicated network of over 360 chambers of commerce and statewide associations from around the nation who regularly engage on education and workforce initiatives.
We’re thrilled to invite you to join us in celebrating the exciting new businesses opening in our community! Each grand opening is not just a milestone for these businesses but also a chance for all of us to come together and support our local economy. From marking special occasions to recognizing remarkable achievements, we feel honored to share in your celebrations. Our grand opening and ribbon-cutting events are FREE and open to everyone to attend! It’s a wonderful opportunity to connect with fellow community members, meet the passionate individuals behind these new ventures, and explore what they have to offer.
Let’s show our support and make these celebrations unforgettable! Bring your friends and family, and let’s celebrate the growth and vibrancy of our community together. We can’t wait to see you there!
Congratulations to SCV Wound Care & Hyperbarics on your grand opening in October. Visit www.scvwoundcare.com to find out more and give them a visit. Thank you to everyone who came out to celebrate and support them. Photo credit: Joie de Vivre Photographie
Celebrating SCV Businesses
Do you have a grand opening or anniversary coming up? Email us at hello@scvchamber.com for details about hosting a ribbon cutting ceremony.
Kris Hough, Field Representative for State Senator Scott Wilkcongratulates SCV Wound Care & Hyperbarics leadership on their grand opening .
Photo credit: Joie de Vivre Photographie
Events
Join us on November 12, 2024, for an insightful evening exploring how businesses can create exceptional, personalized experiences in a world dominated by AI and automation. This event, hosted by our API Council, celebrates the power of cultural inclusivity and human connection in all industries, providing valuable networking and professional development opportunities for businesses of all kinds.
We’ll be serving delicious food and drinks inspired by the rich culinary traditions of the API community, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere for all attendees.
Inspired by Will Guidara’s concept of “Unreasonable Hospitality,” the evening will focus on how companies can go above and beyond by offering personalized, human-centered service that leaves a lasting impression – whether you’re in retail, tech, healthcare, or any other field. Learn practical strategies for building strong customer relationship, improving client retention, and creating unique experiences that can set your business apart in today’s competitive market.
Whether you’re looking to deepen customer relationships, improve team dynamics, or simply learn how to add a personal touch to your business approach, this event offers actionable insights for professionals across all sectors.
Our final mixer of the year! Join us at Eternal Valley Memorial Park for your last chance to make connections and wrap up conversations before the end of the year.
Don’t miss this opportunity to expand your network and forge new connections. Mingle with 100+ business representatives from across the Santa Clarita Valley, including industry leaders, entrepreneurs, and professionals. Exchange ideas, share insights, and explore potential collaborations in a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere. Don’t miss this opportunity to elevate your network, expand your horizons, and make lasting connections.
To view our full calendar and event details go to www.SCVChamber.com.
Truth at Work
BY PAUL BUTLER SCVBJ Contributing Writer
Awhile back, I attended a three-day conference titled “Truth Matters,” which got me thinking about the concept of truth as it pertains to the workplace.
We most certainly are working in confusing times where some people claim there is no such thing as absolute truth — what was “wrong” yesterday is now being celebrated as being “so right” today.
In this upside-down world, many people are asking the question, “What is truth?” Our online friend Google tells us, “Truth is most often used to mean being in accord with fact or reality, or fidelity to an original or standard.”
I’m a simple guy from middle England originally who prefers straightforward ways of expressing concepts, so I’d suggest that truth is a principle. What are principles? They are universal, timeless and objective; they exist external to us and with or without our permission. Gravity for example is true — a principle that proves itself if we choose to jump off a building.
Here are six timeless principles I’ve found to be true about the workplace, and I’d venture to say they will always be true:
Be on time.
Woody Allen famously said, “90% of success is showing up,” and the only two words I’d add to Woody’s statement are “on time.” Being late or failing to do what you said you would do when you said you would, breaks trust with colleagues and customers.
Don’t lie.
It’s a global phenomenon that people dislike being lied to, and I don’t think that’s going out of fashion. Just like being late, lying breaks trust — the commodity that exists between people. In the fable of “The Boy Who Cried Wolf,” it becomes very difficult to regain people’s trust when they’ve been lied to, repeatedly. Don’t steal.
I recently finished reading a book about
Being
late or failing to do what you said you would do when you said you would, breaks trust with colleagues and customers. Have you ever worked on a farm? Have you ever lived near one? Do you think a farmer would harvest if they didn’t sow? What if they sowed but then slacked off all summer, doing nothing until harvest? How would that work out?
the Enron financial scandal. CEO Jeff Skilling, through his skillful and deceptive lawyers, managed to reduce his prison sentence based on what they termed “honest services fraud.” Isn’t it an oxymoron to use the words “honest” and “fraud” in the same sentence? Skilling claimed he didn’t steal directly from the business; instead, he conducted fraudulent activities in the normal course of his job. In the Good Book, that’s still called “stealing,” regardless of the double-talk. Don’t gossip.
Employees often think they’rebuilding relationships with each other by gossiping about others, but nothing could be further from the truth. Construction workers call this “bad mud.” You may think you’re bonding while bad-mouthing someone, but deep down, you know your fellow gossiper can’t be trusted because you fear they’ll gossip about you too. And guess what? They think the same about you! That’s the truth.
Work hard.
It’s a profound truth that if you work hard, you tend to achieve good results. The principle behind this truth is the law of the harvest — we reap what we sow.
Treat others well.
Is it just me, or have you found it to be true that if you treat people at work the way you would like to be treated, you tend to have a good working relationship with them? This principle holds in our personal lives as well. After 30 years of marriage, I have found this to be true.
So, as theologians, philosophers and those political persuaders debate and endeavor to convince us what truth theirs is, we can rest assured that there are absolute truths we can live by within our workplaces and even our homes. Now that’s the truth.
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.
Santa Clarita Valley’s Largest Employer Survey: 2024 Edition
IBY ONDRÉ SELTZER INTERIM PRESIDENT & CEO OF THE SANTA CLARITA VALLEY ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION
n a world that often feels like a whirlwind of economic challenges and opportunities, it’s always refreshing to pause and take stock of the forces that keep our communities thriving. One such driving force is the businesses and their employees that make up our diverse community. The Santa Clarita Valley Economic Development Corporation, an organization dedicated to fostering sustainable growth and prosperity in the Santa Clarita Valley, once again unveils its annual Largest Employer List for the Santa Clarita Valley.
Now, you might wonder why a list of employers could be so intriguing. Well, picture this: each name on the list represents hundreds, if not thousands, of livelihoods. These employers are not just businesses; they are the heartbeats of our local economy, providing stability, innovation, and growth opportunities for the community. The SCVEDC’s list isn’t merely a catalog; it’s a narrative about the economic dynamics that shape our daily lives. The List is a who’s who of economic heavyweights, ranging from healthcare giants to aerospace innovators and everything in between.
Key highlights from this year include Vallarta Supermarkets relocating its headquarters from Sylmar, adding over 200 jobs, and joining other corporate headquarters like Logix and Sunkist. Six Flags, a major player in local tourism and retail, saw a 20% increase in summer hiring, adding 500 seasonal jobs. SCV’s average salary across all industries rose 3% from 2023, with Medical Devices showing the largest increase and highest wage. Consequently, real wages increased in the region for the first time since 2020. Though labor markets have softened relative to 2022 and 2023, economist Dr. Mark Schniepp’s outlook does not predict continued weakness; job growth is expected to rise in 2025 and remain positive through 2027.
Among the 50 largest employers for which complete information is available, there were 28,731 workers in the Santa Clarita Valley in September 2024. There was an increase of 483 workers among the list of the largest private sector employers in the SCV, compared to last year’s total of 101. However, unlike last year’s downsizing by the largest public employers of 375 jobs, the SCV has seen an increase of 617 jobs in the public sector. A trend that is
in keeping with what is being seen across most of California. Twenty-six of the largest private sector companies added new jobs over the last year. Eighteen companies downsized over the prior year. Nevertheless, collectively, total employment among the largest organizations
rose 4% overall. The public sector grew by 7.4%; the private sector increased by 2.5. Visit www.scvedc.org/top-employers to view the 2024 Largest Employer List and discover the key players behind the scenes of our thriving community.
SCV Condos and Home Listings Soar
BY DAVID WALKER Southland Regional Association of Realtors®
Active listings of homes and condominiums throughout the Santa Clarita Valley have exceeded year ago tallies for eight consecutive months, with September home listings up 46% while condominium listings soared 56.5%, the Southland Regional Association of Realtors reported.
The Realtors association reported a total of 438 singlefamily homes plus 189 condominiums listed for sale on its Multiple Listing Service.
Condo listings recently hit the highest mark in six years while the single-family supply was the best since October 2022. “Lower interest rates on home loans and the anticipation of further declines appear to be drawing buyers and sellers into the market,” said Bob Khalsa, the 2024 President of the 11,000-member Southland Regional Association of REAL-
TORS®. “That may translate into increased activity in the closing months of the year.”
The California Association of REALTORS® in its forecast for 2025 said a more favorable interest rate environment combined with a rising inventory will encourage buyers and sellers to return to the market and, as a result, bolster sales.
Statewide annual sales for 2024 were projected to rise 6.8 percent compared to 2023 while 2025 could see a 10.5%
Sand Canyon
BY PERRY SMITH SCV Business Journal Editor
This month’s biggest new real estate listing feature for the Santa Clarita Valley takes us to the exclusive enclave of Sand Canyon and one of its nicer properties.
The listing advertises the private, 15-acre property off Sand Canyon Road at 26505 Josel Drive for $4.95 million, which includes eight bedrooms, 11 bathrooms and nearly 10,000 square feet of living space on nearly three-quarters of a million square feet.
“Welcome to Laroca Villa
Home
jump from this year. “Lower rates and higher inventory certainly will entice buyers, yet market changes also will encourage many existing homeowners to get busy,” said Valerie Biletsky, the Association’s Chief Executive Officer. “Some owners have been hesitant while rates were high to pursue a home that better suits their needs and desires for fear of losing low rates that they locked in during the Covid pandemic.
More housing choices and affordable financing could change that dynamic.”
The median price — meaning half were higher and half lower — of single-family homes that changed owners last month in Santa Clarita was $850,000, down 1.5% from a year ago. The condominium median price of $595,000 was up 7.2% from September 2023.
A total of 160 single-family homes changed owners last month, up 8.8% from a year ago. The condo total was 10.2% at 65 closed escrows. Pending escrows — a measure of future resale activity — were down 13% for homes while condo open escrows fell 2% year-over-year
Chartered by the National Association of Realtors in 1920, the SRAR is the voice for real estate in San Fernando and Santa Clarita valleys. With nearly 11,000 members, SRAR serves as a trusted resource and partner to the real estate profession and the community at large.
Hits Market For Nearly $5M
and Ranch, located in the exclusive neighborhood of Sand Canyon in Santa Clarita,” reads the listing on Zillow, which hit the market on Oct. 11. “Spanning over 15 acres, this private, gated Spanish hacienda estate offers breathtaking panoramic views, rolling hills, a gated entry with security booths, multi-tiered grounds, lush landscaping and plenty of land to further develop.”
The agent listed for the property is Maureen Polye, according to elliman.com, a luxury home site that also had the property listed.
“The outdoor entertain-
ment areas are designed to host events for hundreds of guests, making it perfect for large gatherings or even film productions. In the back, the resort-style pool area boasts several waterfalls, a waterslide, a spa/grotto and numerous patio spaces, complete with a fireplace,” according to the ad.
Built 60 years ago, the home touts a Spanish Colonial style that’s been partially renovated and includes a restored guest house.
Some of the more unique amenities for the home, which also ofers the privacy of a gat-
ed entry with a security booth and “several waterfalls” in the property’s entertainment area, as well as a waterslide, a spa/grotto and numerous patio spaces and a fireplace.
Canyon Country has 151 active listings, according to the latest numbers available, and 47 escrows closed last month.
The median list price was $775,000, and the median sale price was $775,000, according to data from the SRAR.
The average home in Santa Clarita stayed on the market for 70 days, based on the latest information available.
A Reminder for Veterans Tax Savings
BY JEFF PRANG Los Angeles County Assessor
As we prepare to give thanks this November on Thanksgiving Day, it’s also important to remember those that have served our great nation in the military and honor their courage and valor on this Veterans Day.
Veterans Day is a federal holiday and is celebrated this Nov. 11. Veterans Day, as most of you know, is a tribute to military veterans who have served in the U.S. Armed Forces. It’s not to be confused with Memorial Day, which honors those who died while in service. Veterans Day honors all military veterans, including those still with us.
As a quick reminder, Veterans Day evolved from Armistice Day, which was proclaimed in 1919 by President Woodrow Wilson, celebrating the signing of the Armistice that ended World War I. That occurred on Nov. 11 at 11 a.m. and formally recognized the “11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month” in 1918 that ended the war.
Not only am I visiting with you about Veterans Day but to remind you that we have tax savings’ programs available for veterans, especially those that are disabled. I just don’t think we can’t remind our disabled veterans enough that they’re programs that can save them money on their property tax bills.
The exemption for disabled veterans or the unmarried spouse of a deceased disabled veteran through the Disabled Veterans’ Property Tax Exemption reduces the property tax on the veteran’s primary residence in real dollars, if they are rated 100% disabled or receive compensation at the 100% rate due to being unable to work. The unmarried surviving spouse of a qualified veteran can also claim the exemption.
To be eligible for the exemption, a veteran must have been injured during their military service. The injuries that qualify for the exemption include being blind in both eyes, losing the use of two or more limbs and/or being totally disabled, according to the Department of Veterans
Affairs. As such, the disability rating must be issued by the Department of Veterans Affairs. Ratings from personal physicians are not accepted. Although there is no time limit on filing, only up to eight years is retroactively refundable and it starts from the effective date of the disability rating. To receive the full savings, it must be filed by February 15.
There are two levels of this exemption: the basic exemption and the low-income exemption. The basic exemption, also known as the $100,000 exemption, is available to all qualifying claimants. The exemption amount is compounded annually by an inflation factor. For 2024, the basic exemption amount is $169,769, which results in about $1,700 off their property tax bill.
The low-income exemption, also referred to as the $150,000 exemption, is available to qualifying claimants whose annual household income does not exceed a specified income limit. The amounts for both the low-income exemption and the annual income limit are compounded annually by an inflation
factor. For 2024, the low-income exemption amount is $254,656 and the annual household income limit is $76,235. That translates to about $2,500 off their property tax bill.
We owe a tremendous debt to our veterans, and I say thank you for all that you’ve done, all that you do and all that you will do. Our Democracy is built on your service. I just don’t think we can say it enough.
For additional property tax relief programs, visit https://assessor.lacounty. gov/exemptions/disabled-veterans or call 213-974-3211.
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 property Assessment Roll.
©ADOBE STOCK
Celebrate the Holidays with a Corporate Party at MB2 Entertainment, Santa Clarita!
This holiday season, reward your team with a memorable, actionpacked celebration at MB2 Entertainment in Santa Clarita! With an expansive 7-acre property and event spaces for groups of all sizes, MB2 offers everything you need to host a seamless, unforgettable corporate event. Our all-inclusive party packages make planning easy, so you can focus on enjoying the fun with your team.
Customizable Menus & Drink Options
From unique appetizers to signature entrees, MB2’s from-scratch kitchen offers customizable menus crafted to please every palate. Our talented culinary team works with you to create the perfect holiday menu, including vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options, paired with a selection of celebratory drink
choices to toast to a successful year.
Entertainment for Everyone
With MB2’s wide array of attractions, there’s something for everyone to enjoy! Adrenaline-seekers can rev up on our go-kart track, while the competitive spirits take aim with axe throwing or enjoy a thrilling round of laser tag. Groups can also unwind on the mini-golf course, glide on bumper boats, or immerse themselves in classic arcade games. We’re equipped to entertain up to 1,000 guests, making MB2 the ideal venue for both intimate and large corporate parties.
Flexible, Private Event Spaces
MB2’s flexible event spaces can accommodate semi-private and fully private gatherings, allowing you to tailor your event to your unique needs. Spread
across our expansive property, these spaces offer a festive ambiance to ensure your team feels celebrated and appreciated.
Perfect for Gifting: MB2 Gift Cards
Extend the joy beyond the party with MB2 gift cards, an excellent way to thank employees or use as stocking stuffers. These cards allow team members to return and experience more of the entertainment MB2 has to offer!
Make this holiday season unforgettable by hosting your corporate party at MB2 Entertainment, where delicious food, endless activities, and easy planning come together for a memorable celebration. Book your holiday party today! Learn more at MB2EntertainmentSCV. com.
Economic DEvElopmEnt corporation
Econo Watch
The List Family-Owned Businesses
VALLEY INDUSTRY ASSOCIATION
Color My World: A Celebration of Community at the 2024 VIA Bash
The 2024 VIA Bash, themed Color My World, was an extraordinary evening filled with vibrant celebration, recognition, and heartfelt gratitude. From the spirited atmosphere to moments of applause and laughter, the event embodied the unity and achievement that define our community.
for all attendees but also showcased the remarkable achievements of individuals and businesses in our community.
A special highlight of the evening was the recognition of those who have gone above and beyond to make a lasting impact:
A special highlight this year was VIA’s honor to pay tribute to Senator Scott Wilk. VIA is proud to recognize his many contributions and commitment, which have played a vital role in strengthening our mission and impact. We thank Senator Wilk for his years of service and enduring support.
We extend our deepest appreciation to the generous sponsors who made this incredible evening possible. Thank you to: City of Santa Clarita, College of the Canyons, FivePoint, Grace Baptist Church, Jersey Mike’s Subs, LBW Insurance, Mission Valley Bank, Mission View Public Charter, Pleasantview Industries, Santa Clarita Magazine, Supervisor Kathryn Barger, The Signal, UCLA Health, Wit’s End Woodworking.
Without their invaluable support and commitment, the Color My World VIA Bash wouldn’t have been the resounding success that it was. Their contributions not only created a memorable experience
Connie Worden-Roberts Volunteer of the Year - Emily McConnaughy, ServPro VIA Business of the Year - QM Design Group
VIA Community Impact Award - Alex Hafizi
These winners stood out among their peers, embodying the values of dedication, innovation, and service that enrich our community.
As we reflect on the unforgettable Color My World celebration and the accomplishments of our members, we want to once again thank all sponsors, attendees, and participants. Together, we created an event that not only celebrated individual and collective success but also strengthened the bonds that make our community exceptional.
Thank you for your continued support, and here’s to another year of growth, collaboration, and positive impact!
Photography by Joie de Vivre Photographie
UPCOMING EVENTS
December 12, 5:30 – 7:00p.m.
Cocktails & Conversation with Cameron Smyth
Margarita’s Mexican Grill | 23320 Valencia Blvd. | Valencia, CA 91355
Members: $25 | Non Members: $35
Friday, December 13, 11:45 – 1:30 p.m.
VIA Luncheon & 2025 Board Installation
Senator Scott Wilk Presiding
Dr. Dianne G. Van Hook University Center
26455 Rockwell Canyon Road, Room 258
Valencia, CA 91355
Members: $45 | Non Members: $55