SCV Community Pride 2018

THE SIGNAL . SATURDAY, MAY 26, 2018 . P1

SCV Community Pride ★ QUALITY OF LIFE

SCV

Community VALENCIA

PRIDE Quality of Life

“COME HOME TO VALENCIA,” reads a 1969 sales guide for what was then a new masterplanned community in the Santa Clarita Valley.

Fast forward to today and those words ring even truer now than then. Valencia is one of the Best Places to Live in California (according to CNN Money Magazine). The community includes approximately 20,000 homesites on 15,000 acres, top-rated schools, sought-after recreational spaces and parks, shopping, healthcare and public services, a strong

SETS THE STANDARD

employment base, cultural activities and abundant open space. Plus, there are 30 miles of paseos, pedestrian pathways that link neighborhoods with schools, pools, parks and other community amenities.

That same type of planning and foresight that created Valencia is the cornerstone of FivePoint’s Newhall Ranch, now under construction on the valley’s west side. It is planned to be the largest community in the United States committed to a net zero increase in greenhouse gas emissions.

Newhall Ranch is planned to include 21,500 homes, seven schools within nine interconnected neighborhood villages, and is estimated to bring approximately 75,000 new permanent jobs to the area.

As planned, Newhall Ranch will also preserve more than 10,000 acres of open space and establish more than 50 miles of walking trails.

It is a vision rooted in the success of Valencia, a community that set the standard for pride in the Santa Clarita Valley.

Valencia Means Business JOBS AND A VIBRANT ECONOMY ARE A KEY PART OF THE SANTA CLARITA VALLEY’S GROWTH AND 50 YEAR SUCCESS STORY

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T SHOULD COME AS NO SURPRISE to Southern Californians that Los Angeles County is a global powerhouse of creativity and commerce.

With a GDP of $570 billion, L.A. County’s economy is larger than those of Sweden, Norway, Poland or Belgium.

What’s perhaps not as well known is the increasingly important impact that Valencia and the Santa Clarita Valley’s vibrant and growing economy has on the region’s success.

“I think people are surprised at the amount of business and industry here in the Santa Clarita Valley,” says Holly Schroeder, president and CEO of the Santa Clarita Valley Economic Development Corporation (SCVEDC). “We’re a premier business destination, with all that a company needs for success, thanks to all the design and planning that has gone into the Santa Clarita Valley and Valencia.”

The Santa Clarita Valley is home to a vibrant, diverse and growing business community and a highly educated workforce. The city of Santa Clarita is the third largest city in L.A. County and has been named the most business-friendly city in the county. Global companies such as Princess Cruises

Scorpion, a leader in Internet technology and marketing with $70 million in annual revenues, has a new headquarters in Valencia for its more than 400 employees.

and Sunkist have headquarters in Valencia and Santa Clarita Valley, along with leaders in the aerospace, medical device, film, technology, and manufacturing sectors.

“The differentiating factor that we have in the Santa Clarita Valley is that we are still growing and we have the opportunity to grow,” she said. Santa Clarita is currently in the process of constructing about 600,000 square feet of new commercial, technology and industrial space. There’s an additional 5 million square feet in the pipeline, according to the SCVEDC. The business and commercial core of the Santa Clarita Valley is in Valencia, with business growth and development being a key part of the community’s master plan.

“What we’re able to promote to companies in terms of a master planned industrial park, and business parks, is due to the tremendous foresight that Newhall Land & Farming Co., now FivePoint, had in designing Valencia,” adds Schroeder.

Valencia at build-out is planned for 60,000 jobs among 25 million square feet of commercial and industrial

WITH NEARLY 1,500 COMPANIES AND 45,000 EMPLOYEES, VALENCIA GATEWAY IS L.A. COUNTY’S LARGEST—AND FASTEST— GROWING CENTER FOR BUSINESS, TECHNOLOGY AND INDUSTRY. space. With nearly 1,500 companies, Valencia Gateway is the largest-and fastest-growing master-planned center for business, technology and industry in Los Angeles County. Bringing the high-paying jobs residents need to be able to live and work locally is key to the future of the community and part of the vision of Valencia.

The excellent schools and continued safety ratings for Valencia and the Santa Clarita Valley are big reasons businesses are moving to the region. But the bottom-line is that costs are lower in Valencia and the

Santa Clarita Valley than in much of L.A. County.

Logix Federal Credit Union’s choice to relocate its corporate headquarters and 500 employees to Valencia after more than 75 years in Burbank, and Scorpion’s decision to stay in Valencia, buying land to build its new high-tech, corporate headquarters, demonstrate the strength and attraction of the Valencia master plan and all that Santa Clarita has to offer growing businesses.

Once a small website design startup, Scorpion is now a leader in internet technology and marketing. The company founded by CEO Rustin Kretz in 2001 now has more than 400 employees and thousands of clients, with annual revenues that exceed $70 million per year. Scorpion received a Google innovation award in 2016 and has been included on the Inc. 5000 list as one of fastest-growing private companies in America for six consecutive years.

“We chose Santa Clarita Valley as the permanent home for Scorpion because a majority of our employees already call this area home, and we see it shaping into the epicenter of a tech hub that spreads across Los Angeles County that we affectionately refer to as the Silicon Suburbs,” says Matthew Shepherd, chief financial officer for the company.

Shepherd points to the “relative affordability of commercial space” in Valencia as a key reason companies move and stay here. “Space in the San Fernando Valley is priced at a 30-50 percent premium over Valencia, while on the Westside of L.A., property is at a 100-150 percent premium,” he says.

With the move to new headquarters, Scorpion anticipates accelerated growth, bringing new jobs to Valencia.

Job growth, high wages, competitive rents, and the benefits of a master-planned, business-friendly environment are all part of the recipe for success in Valencia and the Santa Clarita Valley.

Congratulations to Valencia on a half century of growth, impact and recognition as one of the best places anywhere to live.

We can’t wait to see what the future holds.

We know it will be Awesome.

P2 . SATURDAY, MAY 26, 2018 . THE SIGNAL

SCV Community Pride ★ QUALITY OF LIFE

VA L E NCI A SE T S T HE S TA ND A R D

EDUCATION

A+ for Education PUBLIC SCHOOLS AND HIGHER EDUCATION ARE KEYS TO THE QUALITY OF LIFE IN VALENCIA

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HEN FAMILIES MAKE VALENCIA their home, one of the main attributes they cite is the high quality of the public schools their children will have the opportunity to attend.

Valencia is home to 12 public schools—eight elementary schools, two junior high schools, and two high schools in three school districts.

“We are typically recognized as one of the highest performing high school districts, academically, in the state of California,” says Vicki Engbrecht, the superintendent of the William S. Hart Union High School District, which oversees junior high and high schools in the area.

“Not only do we excel in academics—we excel athletically; in music, both instrumental and choral; in drama; in fine arts; and more.”

Newsweek, U.S News & World Report, and the Washington Post have recognized schools in the Hart District as among the best in the nation in recent years.

More than 90 percent of Hart District graduates go on to higher education. The academic and fitness scores at Hart School District consistently rank in the top tier of districts of its size in Los Angeles County and the state of California.

The Saugus Union School District serves elementary school children in Valencia, Saugus and Canyon Country.

Thirteen of the district’s schools have been recognized as California Distinguished Schools, many of them more than once.

Meeting the 21st century educational needs of students is one of the main goals and challenges both districts face. The integration of STEM

Students at College of the Canyons

programs throughout both districts brings the focus of Science, Technology, Engineering and Math to the forefront of every level of education.

“The children that are coming in to our schools right now at kindergarten level haven’t got a clue what their jobs will be by the time they come out of the high school, let alone college,” says Superintendent Joan Lucid, who’s been an employee at Saugus School District for 36 years.

“We need to make sure that they can communicate, that they are critical thinkers, that they know how to collaborate, and that they’re creative in doing it.”

Design students at CalArts

WE CONSIDER OURSELVES A GATEWAY TO OPPORTUNITY. START HERE AND YOU CAN GO ANYWHERE. IF YOU CAN DREAM IT, YOU CAN DO IT. —DR. DIANNE G. VAN HOOK

“One of our biggest challenges is we’re preparing students for jobs that might not even exist today,” agrees Superintendent Engbrecht, who has worked at the Hart District as a teacher and administrator for 40 years.

“The world is changing so quickly, and we’re trying our best to keep up with what they may need for their future.”

The superintendents also share a high opinion of the partnerships their school districts have with FivePoint, the developer of the master-planned community of Valencia where many of their students live with their families.

“They’ve always been huge supporters of all of our schools, and we’re very, very grateful for that,” Engbrecht says.

Superintendent Lucid agrees. “I’ve been in the district office for almost 20 years, and FivePoint has always

had an attitude of ‘what else can we do to be of assistance.’”

“It’s in everyone’s best interests to have the best schools and to have the best neighborhoods,” Lucid says. “So we all work together—the districts, teachers, parents and developer—to make that happen.”

Valencia is also home to two highly respected institutions of higher education, CalArts and College of the Canyons (COC), one of the premier community colleges in California.

Graduates from the COC attend John Hopkins University, USC, UCLA, UCI, and most of the California State University campuses.

“When I came here in 1988, we had 4,800 students,” says Dr. Dianne G. Van Hook, CEO of the Santa Clarita Community College District and COC’s chancellor. “We’ve had as many as 26,000 students in recent years.

And Newhall Land has been a key partner in the growth and development of College of the Canyons.”

After donating $140,000 to early fundraising efforts, FivePoint sold the community college district more than 150 acres, and then returned 10 percent of the total purchase price to the college as a gift.

Students can also continue their education at the COC University Center, which offers access to upper-division and graduate level educational

opportunities from several university partners, without leaving the Santa Clarita Valley.

“We consider ourselves a gateway to opportunity,” says Van Hook. “Start here and you can go anywhere. If you can dream it, you can do it.”

WHEN WALT DISNEY DREAMED of creating a world-class campus for the school of arts he founded, he chose Valencia for its location.

California Institute of the Arts, or CalArts for short, opened its permanent campus in Valencia in 1971.

In 2011, Newsweek/The Daily Beast ranked CalArts as America’s top college for students in the arts.

Alumni of CalArts animation programs (including John Lasseter, Brad Bird and Tim Burton) have gone on to direct films generating more than $40 billion at the box office and have won ten Academy Awards for Best Animated Feature Film, including Finding Nemo, The Incredibles, Brave, Frozen, and Zootopia.

Filmmaking is just one aspect of the more than 70 comprehensive degree programs CalArts offers in its six schools: Art, Critical Studies, Dance, Film/Video, Music, and Theater.

“One of the most exciting things about CalArts is the amount of activity here on a daily basis,” says Lauren Pratt, the associate producer of CalArts’ Herb Alpert School of Music.

“There’s theater, film, dance, gallery openings, and concerts—and almost all of these public events are free.”

CalArts faculty, students and artists also teach in arts programs offered for free to youth ages 6-18 through the award-winning Community Arts Partnership (CAP) throughout Los Angeles.

“Without art, we would just be another community,” said Thomas Lowe, then-president of Newhall Land & Farming, the developer of Valencia, at the 1969 groundbreaking ceremony for the CalArts campus.

He predicted: “With California Institute of the Arts, Valencia will become a vital place to live… with a mission to create a better way of life.”

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SCV Community Pride ★ QUALITY OF LIFE

VA L E NCI A SE T S T HE S TA ND A R D

HEALTH CARE

Serving the Community, In Sickness and In Health HENRY MAYO NEWHALL HOSPITAL HAS A RICH HISTORY AND IS VITAL TO A HEALTHY FUTURE FOR THE ENTIRE SANTA CLARITA VALLEY

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HERE ARE CERTAIN ATTRIBUTES shared by every great place to live: a true sense of community, a thriving economy, and a commitment to the health and wellness of its residents. In Valencia, every one of those qualities can be seen in one place: its state-of-the-art, award-winning 238-bed Henry Mayo Newhall Hospital.

Since opening in 1975, the hospital has adhered to its original core values of community, compassion and excellence. An exciting example is the hospital’s dedication to cutting edge technology. “Technology is developing rapidly and has a big impact on our lives. From smartphones to driverless cars, we are using technology in ways thought unimaginable a few years ago,” says Roger Seaver, president and CEO of Henry Mayo Newhall Hospital. “But dazzling technology should never blind administrators to the most important criteria for investment,” Seaver says. “Our first priority is to determine if a technological investment will improve patient care.”

One example of advanced technology and advanced patient care coming together is Henry Mayo’s recent purchase of a da Vinci Xi Surgical System, which allows Henry Mayo surgeons to

perform the most advanced surgeries in the least-invasive way. “Robotassisted surgery has many benefits, including smaller incisions, less blood loss, less pain and faster recovery times,” says Henry Mayo surgeon Sevan Stepanian, MD. Of course, the goal of every patient is not to become one in the first place.

Henry Mayo understands that, which is why the hospital is just as dedicated to fitness, nutrition and preventative health measures.

Henry Mayo Fitness and Health, Southern California’s only integrated health and fitness facility, features everything a comprehensive private fitness facility would offer, and because it’s part of the hospital, the center also features Henry Mayo Physical

Therapy, a comprehensive physical therapy clinic that helps patients regain strength, function and mobility after an injury due to illness or other causes.

Henry Mayo is also good for the economy of the community. “We have over 2,200 employees, 89 percent of whom live in the Santa Clarita Valley, and over 500 affiliated physicians,” says Seaver. So while the hospital’s staff might be most proud of saving lives and protecting health, Seaver said Henry Mayo’s economic impact is also vital to the community.

Henry Mayo’s strong history has resulted in a vibrant future, underscored by the new $150 million, six-story patient tower, which broke ground in late 2016 with an estimated opening of spring of 2019. The new tower will include up to 142 additional patient beds, all private patient rooms with natural lighting and private bathrooms, a new cafeteria with indoor and outdoor seating, and a rooftop helipad for faster access to the Emergency Department.

FivePoint is a significant donor to the new facility, and Donald Kimball, FivePoint’s Community President of Newhall Ranch, continues to serve on the Henry Mayo Newhall Hospital board of directors and was the former Board Chair.

The new facilities will surely add to Henry Mayo’s award-winning reputation, but Seaver says that while awards and rankings are great, “the most important ‘ranking’ to us is how our patients and their families feel about the care they receive here. Our mission is to improve the health of our community through compassion and excellence in healthcare services. Everything we do is in service of that goal.”

The hospital is also proud of its alignment with prominent health care partners, including UCLA, Facey Medical Group, and City of Hope. In addition, many Kaiser patients who live and work in the Santa Clarita Valley access the Henry Mayo hospital emergency room and other hospital and staff services.

An artist’s rendering of the new Henry Mayo patient tower; estimated completion date 2019

HENRY MAYO HAS A VIBRANT FUTURE, UNDERSCORED BY THE NEW $150 MILLION SIX-STORY PATIENT TOWER SET TO OPEN IN SPRING OF 2019 OPEN SPACE

Open Space WITH 30 MILES OF TRAILS AND ABUNDANT OPEN SPACE, VALENCIA HELPS FAMILIES LIVE THE CALIFORNIA (OUTDOOR) DREAM

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HETHER IT’S A TWO-HOUR bike ride, a 30-minute walk, or just sitting on a rock listening to chirping birds and flowing creeks, everyone enjoys time in nature. It’s an opportunity to decompress, bond with family and friends, and enjoy one of the major reasons we live in California: the outdoor lifestyle.

Nowhere is this more true—and more accessible—than in Valencia, with its more than 30 miles of hiking, biking and walking trails connecting neighborhoods, and providing access to approximately 3,000 acres of open space.

“The trails encourage people to get outside, get active and live a healthy lifestyle,” says Valencia resident Jeannine Giem, a LEEDaccredited planner with Hunsaker & Associates, whose entire family of four are avid runners and cyclists. In fact, Giem moved to Valencia in 2001 because of the community’s open space and trails.

“We had a baby and we were living in a dense Los Angeles neighborhood that didn’t have any trails, just sidewalks. “So when it was time to move we picked Valencia because it’s a community with a lot of infrastructure to help people enjoy the outdoors. That was our primary reason for moving here,” she says.

A huge part of Valencia’s many trails and abundant open space are its famed paseos and pedestrian bridges that keep walkers and bicyclists up and away from traffic. They are unique features that help keep Valencia neighborhoods connected.

“Paseos are an amazing asset that really show the foresight of planners,” says Kieran Wong, a Valencia resident currently serving on the Parks Commission for the City of Santa Clarita. “Everybody I know uses the paseos and appreciates the fact that you can be on a paved path off the streets.” In fact, he says, paseos span every major traffic artery in the community. “These paseos and bridges allow people to go six to seven miles across communities without having to cross a busy artery,” says Wong.

Wong says that Valencia also proves that masterplanned does not have to mean void of distinction and natural beauty, as illustrated by the variety of trails and the estimated 300,000 trees planted by the community’s original planner Newhall Land. It’s a tradition embraced by Newhall Land’s successor, FivePoint.

Top and above: Bikers, hikers and walkers enjoy 30 miles of trails that provide access to 3,000 acres of open space in Valencia.

Probably the most celebrated of these is Iron Horse Trail, a multiuse path for cyclists, walkers and equestrians. Its centerpiece is historic Trailhead Bridge, which was built in 1898, along with a trailside sculpture called Crossroads. These, and other reasons, are why the League of American Bicyclists awarded Santa Clarita its bronze designation as a “bicycle friendly community.”

“Iron Horse Trail is my favorite trailhead,” says Giem, whose cycling club routinely stops there to take a group photo. “It’s the convergence of many trails and Trailhead Bridge is a reminder of the area’s long and rich history.”

Giem says that it was the forward thinking of the planners and the continued efforts of FivePoint that make all this possible. “These trails

and paseos were planned before the city was incorporated. It’s the kind of community-wide connectivity that can only be planned out at the masterplan level. When you do piecemeal development, you can’t really get the infrastructure we have here. You can’t get the trails that go for 30 miles and the balance with nature,” she says.

Wong echoes those thoughts, emphasizing that the careful planning paid off in a completely unique familyoriented community. “Any development has to be a balance of real estate and access to nature—access to open space and other amenities, like parks and sports fields—that allows families to enjoy the outdoors,” says Wong.

“FivePoint listens to the community and has entrusted it with a fair amount of open space. It allows us to have a quality of life like no other.”

P4 . SATURDAY, MAY 26, 2018 . THE SIGNAL

SCV Community Pride ★ QUALITY OF LIFE

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SCV Community Pride ★ LIFESTYLES

THE SIGNAL . SATURDAY, MAY 26, 2018 . L1

SCV

Community

PRIDE Lifestyles

Audiology Associates Offers Quality Service, Love for Community

Nikolas Samuels/for The Signal

L2 . SATURDAY, MAY 26, 2018 . THE SIGNAL

SCV Community Pride ★ LIFESTYLES

Lifestyles

Uphill is the New Downhill

By Jim Walker

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ith its fantastic network of bike paths and extensive selection of off-road trails, the Santa Clarita Valley is truly a bike-friendly locale. But if you have been reluctant to “take up the pedal” because of the physical demands that it would make on you, Open Trails E-MTB might just have your solution. You see, E-MTB stands for “electric mountain bikes,” and while an electric bike won’t do everything for you all the time, it can certainly reduce your workload and increase your riding pleasure.

In business since 2016 in Altadena, offering e-bike and non-e-bike rentals and sales, as well as guided e-bike tours and e-mountain bike tours, Open Trails launched its SCV store in December of 2017.

“Santa Clarita has the best bike path system in L.A. County,” said David Brow, Open Trails’ CEO, “so we decided to open a store in Santa Carita on the bike path. And the Santa Clarita city council welcomed our store into the community because we offer a new choice in alternative transportation. E-bikes are the best option for local trips.”

He explained that e-bikes cost about 15 cents to charge and have a range of 30 to 100 miles on one charge. E-bikes can go 20 mph and are legal on all the bike paths and bike trails. “It’s a green alternative,

creating no pollution and no noise,” he said.

Brow said using e-bikes can help improve people’s overall health, especially those who have conditions that limit their physical activity. By controlling the amount of assistance they receive from the motor, e-bike riders can adjust the difficulty level of their rides to suit their needs. “The only way to understand what e-bikes are is to test ride one.”

He said that e-bikes offer a lifestyle change where you drive your car less, using your bike to commute to work or run daily errands around town, “or just add a quick, hour workout around a nearby single track. E-bikes make it more fun to ride a bike again.

The side benefits are less traffic, less pollution and more happy people.”

He noted that e-bike riders burn an average of 450 calories per hour and, most important, people ride e-bikes two to three times more miles than regular bikes.

“Studies have shown that e-bike riders gradually lower their power assist over time as they become more fit,” he said.

With Open Trails’ full intent to become an integral part of the local lifestyle, Brow noted that the company’s CFO, Mike Huhn, recently bought a three acre piece of land in Agua Dulce, only six miles from the shop, where he plans to build his home.

Tom Cruze/for The Signal

“Santa Clarita has the best bike path system in L.A. County.”

David Brow Open Trails’ CEO

“We would like to help put together a bike race/festival, a community event, with all the e-bike sponsors, similar to the Sea Otter Classic in Monterey,” Brow added. “Members of the community could test ride e-bikes on a nice dirt track and we could have amateur e-bike races for

all ages.”

Open Trails E-MTB is located at 22935 Soledad Canyon Road, Santa Clarita, CA 91350. The Chuck Pontius Commuter-Rail Trail bike path is directly behind the store. For information call 661-284-5954 or visit the website at opentrailsebikes.com.

OPEN TRAILS eBIKES Huge Haibike Sale!

Burn up to 450 Calories an hour Riding E-Bikes!

OPEN TRAILS eBIKES Huge Haibike Sale!

Burn up to 450 Calories an hour Riding E-Bikes!

American Flyer Step Through

GoCycle, folds!

Commuter Bike

Sales Sales▪ •Rentals Rentals▪• Service Service opentrailsebikes.com opentrailsebikes.com

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661-284-5954 22935 Soledad Canyon Rd Del Rio Center next to Wingstop

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SCV Community Pride ★ LIFESTYLES

Lifestyles

THE SIGNAL . SATURDAY, MAY 26, 2018 . L3

Change Through Restoration

By Alicia Doyle

A

udiology Associates in Valencia is dedicated to helping people of all ages with hearing needs – from babies to folks in their 100s.

Serving the Santa Clarita, San Fernando and Antelope valleys and several outlying areas, the company is run by Patrice Rifkind, Au.D. and Kevin Bolder, Au.D.who have personally helped thousands of patients for more than two decades.

“One of the things that makes us different is we are owned and operated by a Doctor of Audiology – there is no other business in the Santa Clarita Valley with this education,” Dr. Rifkind said. “I have a doctorate, and so does my colleague, Dr. Kevin Bolder.” We have the experience and long-term education to help people with all their hearing healthcare needs.”

When it comes to people suffering from hearing loss, “we clean their ears out if needed, we test their hearing and if there is something medical that is causing hearing loss, we refer them to a medical doctor,” she said.

Thanks to modern day science and technology, “many people are doing well with hearing aids now than ever before,” Dr. Rifkind said.

When she first became an audiologist, “we would order the style and the type of hearing aid from a book; we picked the matrix and then we had a little screw driver to adjust it. Then we started doing computer programmed hearing aids and they started improving,” she said.

“They were not attractive and often did not sound good 23 years ago but now most people don’t even know if someone’s wearing a hearing aid depending on how short their hair is,” Dr. Rifkind said. “But even the shorthaired person can hide it now. And sound quality is much better!”

These hearing aids literally change the course of people’s lives by giving them a better quality of life. For instance, Dr. Rifkind helped a husband and wife in their

Nikolas Samuels/for The Signal 90s who were unable to communicate because of her hearing loss.

“When we first fit her with her hearing aids, they sat down and starting talking with each other, and their children were in tears,” she recalled.

“Some people spend years unable to communicate with their family members, and some were unable to continue to hold jobs because they are not able to hear well enough to do a job well. Hearing loss can be isolating; it can cause anxiety and depression.”

If somebody has moderate to severe hearing loss, they’re four times as likely to have dementia, Dr. Rifkind said.

“Think about it – not being able to hear anything,” she said. “What’s going to happen to the brain if you put it in the dark? The brain needs stimulation. So our goal is to help

Hearing loss can be isolating; it can cause anxiety and depression.

the world hear better one person at a time, and educate the public about all the concepts of hearing healthcare.”

Over the years, Audiology Associates has won numerous awards, including the Daily News Reader’s Choice Award consecutively every year from 2011 to 2017. The company also earned The Signal’s “Best Of” award every year from 2009 to 2017. In other honors, Dr. Rifkind was awarded The Santa Clarita Valley Leadership Award for 2012 Minority/Women Owned Business of the Year and Elite Magazine’s Ultimate Audiology.

At Audiology Associates, “we treat everybody like family,” said Dr. Bolder. “Our office is inviting; it is a very family-oriented business and we are trying to keep it that way. It’s not like walking into a doctor’s office. It’s like walking into someone’s living room. We don’t wear lab coats.”

Dr. Bolder noted that there are studies that show people with hearing loss wait about seven years before coming in for treatment. “Imagine, they have procras-

tinated for seven years,” he said.

“When we finally get them in the door, we have to make them super comfortable.”

“We’re not here to sell them products,” Dr. Bolder continued.

“We try to work with them for the rest for their lives, like your primary doctor, you want to keep them forever.”

Because Dr. Rifkind and Dr. Bolder have changed people’s lives, “we get tears, obviously hugs, when they realize what they have been missing this whole time,” Dr. Bolder said. “Then they say, ‘why didn’t I do this sooner?’”

Hearing aids are so small nowadays, “it’s not a big deal anymore,” Dr. Bolder said. “They barely even know they are on their ears. And now they can connect with your cell phone so they’re blue tooth compatible. You can stream music through them, stream television through them, answer your phone calls – it makes life a lot easier for hearing impaired people.”

For more information call 661-284-1900 or visit www.

AudiologyAssociates.net.

Nikolas Samuels/for The Signal

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SCV Community Pride ★ LIFESTYLES

SCV Community Pride ★ LIFESTYLES

THE SIGNAL . SATURDAY, MAY 26, 2018 . L5

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Lifestyles

SCV Community Pride ★ LIFESTYLES

9Round Packs a Punch in Only 30 Minutes!

By Cully Schneider

9

Round 30 Minute Kickboxing provides a unique circuit training experience for those trying to fit a quick, full-body workout into their day-to-day routine. Owners Christy and Larry Grable opened the boutique fitness club in Santa Clarita last October after Christy discovered what an effective and fun workout it provided her friends and two kids while living in Oklahoma. After convincing her husband Larry to give the workout a try, he was quickly hooked by the concept.

As Larry describes the training, “Get fit, but never get hit.” At this kickboxing gym, the bags are the only ones taking the punches. Members enjoy a hard-hitting workout at 9 different stations, some involving real boxing equipment used by the pros. “We always have a station every day where you’re working with a trainer on some sort of boxing technique, whether it’s a kick or punching; and it gets your heart rate up too.”

To assist in tracking calories burned and heart rate level during a workout, each member wears a 9ROUND PULSE ™ belt in order to ensure he or she is expending

enough effort for optimal fat burning.

“It helps maximize the number of calories you’re burning without tearing down your muscle. So it really helps us optimize your workout and keep you from overworking because this workout is really intense,” says Larry Grable. The real time tracking results show up on a monitor in the back of the gym so members know whether to expel more or less effort during each exercise. Results are also emailed to each member after a workout and found through the app or online account.

Members have access to an online portal which not only displays their results, but also creates custom meal plans, with portion size guidance and caloric intake guidance. Larry explains, “The nutrition plan is keyed towards your particular body type, your age, your weight, your gender and what your particular goal is…it plans your meals for you every day.”

Each meal is designed to help members maintain energy throughout the day and increase the effectiveness of their 9Rounds training.

Christy and Larry are happy to help Santa Clarita residents achieve their fitness goals and to give back to the community that has welcomed them.

An online portal not only displays results, but also creates custom meal plans.

Nikolas Samuels/The Signal “I have a Chemo Care Bag fundraiser every year in honor of my mom.

Bags are donated to the Circle of Hope,” says Christy. She is also a member of Soroptimist International of Greater Santa Clarita Valley, an organization dedicated to improving the lives of girls and women through programs that encourage economic and social empowerment. Both

Christy and Larry volunteer for Santa Clarita’s Taste of the Town and will be captaining a team for the local Relay for Life. 9Round Kickboxing will have a tent at the event.

“Larry and I moved here from Oklahoma and we love our community!

Santa Clarita has welcomed us and we are so fortunate to be able to give back!” adds Christy.

SCV Community Pride ★ LIFESTYLES

Lifestyles

THE SIGNAL . SATURDAY, MAY 26, 2018 . L7

Benefits of The Barre

By Alicia Doyle

W

ith more than 600 five-star ratings on Mindbody, The Barre Valencia is Santa Clarita’s highest rated barre studio that was built to showcase the barre technique that Jennifer Barnes personally designed after teaching for more than a decade in Los Angeles.

“What makes our studio so unique is our atmosphere,” said Barnes, of The Barre Valencia, studio owner and head instructor.

“We feel like more of an oasis than a gym,” she said. “When I built the studio, I wanted a place women could come and unplug from their daily lives – which is exactly what we do.”

Recently, Barnes became a 20172019 Lululemon Ambassador for Barre in Santa Clarita. Using over a decade of teaching and study in the fitness world, she incorporated a mix of yoga, pilates, barre and meditation into her teachings. This new brand of Barre Fitness is the vision she manifested using her experience as a dancer.

Located at 28452 Constellation Road in Valencia, The Barre was designed to look and feel like a spa, with comfortable couches, polished maple ballet barres, and even free apples, tea, and coffee.

“Barre is a full body, low-impact workout that delivers a strong and flexible body,” Barnes said.

“Our barre classes are an hour long and we use light hand weights – two to three pounds max – a ballet barre, and my custom floor and mats to sculpt leg muscles, strong abs and lifted booties.”

Every exercise is designed to build heat in the body and then actively stretch so muscles be-

“During class you will feel what we call the barre burn, which is literally your body re-shaping it-self.”

Jennifer Barnes

Nikolas Samuels/The Signal come long, lean and dense in stamina.

“Because we focus on isolated, tiny movements with a high number of repetitions, during class you will feel what we call the barre burn, which is literally your body re-shaping it-self,” she said.

Barre has many wonderful benefits, including generating length in the body, with some students growing a half-inch.

“Our students love the way our exercises have defined their arm muscles, shaped their legs and sculpted their seat muscles like a dancer,” Barnes said.

Additionally, “they see huge improvements in their posture, overall stamina and positive attitude,” she said. “My personal favorite benefit of doing my barre technique is that I feel it is my fountain of youth.”

Barre is for everyone, “and because it is so safe and effective, you can do it at any age or athletic ability – my current clients range in age from 17 to 73,” Barnes said. “And I have so many modifications that I have numerous pregnant clients, and people that deal with injuries and all sorts of body issues that greatly benefits from taking class.”

Above all, her mission is to inspire and empower people – primarily women.

“I have found a way to keep my body and mind healthy and strong and I want to share it with everyone I can,” Barnes said. “This is why I built The Barre Valencia. When I see my students happy in my studio and they tell me what an impact we have had on their lives, I couldn’t be more fulfilled.”

FIRST WEEK FREE SIGN UP NOW AT WWW.THEBARREVALENCIA.COM

L8 . SATURDAY, MAY 26, 2018 . THE SIGNAL

Lifestyles

SCV Community Pride ★ LIFESTYLES

The Positive Power of Music ing Commission for Schools, Western Association of Schools and Cols the premier music school leges,” Cabral said. since 2005, Little School of Education is the primary focus.

Music has been the leader in “Parents who come to us are providing quality music education to looking for a quality music program the Santa Clarita Valley – most re- for their children in a comfortable cently being voted the “Best Music learning environment,” Cabral exSchool” in 2017. plained. “Our instruction focuses on “Our music programs are careful- well-rounded musicianship skills ally planned and designed to help ev- lowing students to absorb and reery student achieve their individual ceive the benefits music has to ofmusical goals,” said owner Mindy fer.”

Cabral. “We offer a variety of learnNot only can instructors teach you ing environments to fit the needs of to play a song, “we can also teach each student including private les- you techniques to make it easier to sons, group classes, camps, and play that song, to understand what performance ensembles.” is happening in the song, how to This task is carried out by the read the music, and how you can apschool’s diverse faculty, who are all ply that information to learn anothmusic profeser song sionals with more easiextensive ly,” Cabral teaching and said. performance Serving “These teaching experience students opportunities and for all instruof all ments and ages, the performance experiences voice. school ofshowed me how “All infers music structors programs important music really are fingerfor bais for people throughout printed and bies and background toddlers, the world, and especially checked,” young chilhow it makes a positive Cabral noted. dren and Free perteens, as impact on children.” formance well as Minday Cabral, owner opportunities adults. are available “Our to students amazing throughfamilies out the year travel from at Little School of Music’s perfor- throughout the Santa Clarita Valley, mance venue, as well as in the lo- and some even from the San Fercal community. nando Valley,” Cabral said.

“Little School of Music is also a The idea for the school came Founding School and Assessment about after Cabral graduated from Center for the Royal Conservatory USC. She was teaching music in of Music Certificate Program, and public and private schools throughis fully accredited by the Accredit- out Southern California; and was

By Alicia Doyle

A

Nikolas Samuels/for The Signal also touring nationally and internationally playing for bands like The Temptations, Michael Bolton, and Kanye West.

“These teaching opportunities and performance experiences showed me how important music really is for people throughout the world, and especially how it makes a positive impact on children.” Cabral said.

“Schools that are lucky enough to have music programs often have limitations due to budget or staffing constraints,” she said. “I wanted to help enhance school music programs and give children without school music programs a place to go where you can learn music consistently, year-round.”

She also wanted to create an environment where teachers could come and share their own unique backgrounds, experiences and expertise with students and other teachers.

“Most important, I wanted to start building a supportive musical community,” Cabral said “A young, growing Santa Clarita Valley was the perfect place to start.”

Above all, “Our mission is to provide a fun, age-appropriate, quality music education program to help every student achieve their individual musical goals. Our ultimate goal is to provide this joyful musical experience to as many students as we can.”

MUSIC LESSONS for all ages, levels, and instruments

s p m a c er m m u S s on s s e l and ! ow N g Enrollin

Call today to learn more about our music programs and schedule a FREE consultation!

661-222-2239

28306 Constellation Rd. Valencia, CA 91355 LittleSchoolofMusic.com

SCV Community Pride ★ HEALTH CARE

THE SIGNAL . SATURDAY, MAY 26, 2018 . H1

SCV

Community

PRIDE Health Care

Facey Medical Group Offers Quality Health Care, Love for Community

Jamie Rubio Merrill, front, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist poses with particpants during the postpartum wellness class of the four-class series entitled Prenatal & Postpartum Wellness Program presented by Facey Medical Group at the Patient Education Building in Mission Hills. Dan Watson/The Signal

H2 . SATURDAY, MAY 26, 2018 . THE SIGNAL

SCV Community Pride ★ HEALTH CARE

We’ve got class.

EDUCATION PROGRAMS AT FACEY MEDICAL GROUP

Live healthy. Live smart.

Want to know the best way to stay healthy? Well, we have some advice for you. Knowledge is power. And with a little help from Facey’s patient education team, you can take managing your health to a new level. We offer classes on a wide variety of subjects, ranging from general nutrition and stress management to more illness-specific issues like diabetes, high blood pressure, and cholesterol.

Facey gives you the tools to live smarter, and most of our classes are free and open to the public. Find everything we have to offer at facey.com/education or ask for a brochure at any Facey office.

But wait, there’s more.

Free health education is just one of the reasons people choose a Facey doctor. Signal readers have voted us Santa Clarita’s best medical group 9 years in a row.

We accept most PPO and HMO health plans. And thanks to our affiliation with Providence, choosing a Facey doctor means a seamless experience at our clinics and Providence’s award-winning hospitals.

Ask your insurance company or broker how you can switch today. For a list of the health plans we currently accept, give us a call or visit our website at: facey.com/insurance

W W W. FA C E Y. C O M / E D U C AT I O N

P R O U D TO B E A PA R T O F T H E S A N T

THE SIGNAL . SATURDAY, MAY 26, 2018 . H3

SCV Community Pride ★ HEALTH CARE

PRENATAL & NEWBORN PREPARATION

HEALTHY WEIGHT LOSS FOR ADULTS

UNDERSTANDING ADVANCE DIRECTIVES

SENIOR WELLNESS

HEALTHY KIDS

Coming soon:

A bigger, brighter Canyon Country.

Later this Summer, we’re moving our Canyon Country team into a brand new office that’s more convenient than ever before! Our new 37,000 sq. ft. clinic will offer expanded radiology services, a larger Facey Eye Center, urgent care by Exer More Than Urgent Care, and room to add new physicians as we grow.

Learn more about what’s in store for Canyon Country by visiting: facey.com/newcanyon

A C L A R I TA C O M M U N I T Y S I N C E 1 9 6 7

1 - 8 4 4 - M Y- FA C E Y

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Health Care

SCV Community Pride ★ HEALTH CARE

Facey helps community with free wellness classes

Jamie Rubio Merrill, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, right, talks to participants about what to expect after having their babies during the postpartum wellness class of the four-class series entitled Prenatal & Postpartum Wellness Program presented by Facey Medical Group at the Patient Education Building in Mission Hills. Dan Watson/The Signal

BY ALICIA DOYLE Facey Medical Group, one of the oldest multi-specialty groups in Southern California, doesn’t only care for its own patients – but the community at large.

“We’re out there serving our community with our programs and services,” said Beth Sobel, patient education manager at Facey. “Our goal is to help promote health and wellness through education, empowering people with knowledge and tools to be able to live healthier lives, whether it’s managing their own diseases, working towards wellness goals, or how to properly care for an upcoming procedure.”

Every single education program or class offered at Facey is free – so there’s no charge for anyone who taps into them.

“What makes us unique is that all of our group programs and classes are free for our patients and for the people in our community,” Sobel said. “Our commitment isn’t just to patient health care but in fostering better health for all of our neighbors.”

Classes and programs are offered during non-traditional hours, including evening classes for those who work, and morning classes to accommodate people who might have children. Many of these classes are offered in both English and Spanish, and all classes are taught by health care providers from a number of disciplines.

“We really try to accommodate everybody’s schedule and needs. We offer a wide variety of class topics and multi-disciplinary programs and have classes running almost every weekday and some weekends,” Sobel explained. “We also offer classes off-site. We go into some of the senior centers and provide wellness classes that are tailored to meet the needs of seniors; we also go off-site and do classes that promote health and wellness to a number of different groups and communities.”

Population health is a major focus at Facey Medical Group. For instance, several efforts center on diabetes management and prevention, including a diabetes support group in which loved ones can share their thoughts, be heard, and receive on-going support for living with diabetes from a certified diabetes educator, licensed marriage and family therapist and each other. Facey also employs clinical pharmacists that provide one-on-one appointments to review a patient’s medications, make sure they are safe and appropriate, provide medication education, and also help manage those with uncontrolled diabetes to help get them to a goal.

Weight management classes are offered for both parents and children, and a multi-disciplinary prenatal wellness program covers topics including prenatal care, recognizing labor, breastfeeding, proper nutrition for pregnancy and postpartum wellness.

Thinking of having bariatric surgery? Facey offers a free course to help individuals prepare for this weight-loss surgery, and a support group provides ongoing support before and after the procedure.

Facey Medical Group also offers several lifestyle wellness courses on topics including blood pressure and cholesterol, healthier living, exercise, fall prevention and smoking cessation.

There’s also a class on advance directives in which people learn how to complete the California advance directive form.

“Our doctors have been caring for Santa Clarita patients for over three decades, and we feel a really strong connection to Santa Clarita,”

Members of the community can also make oneon-one appointments with a registered dietician and certified diabetes educator. They work with people to establish realistic goals, based on their medical history and personal preferences, that can help a person optimize their health, prevent or treat illness, and promote positive lifestyle habits. While individualized services aren’t free to the general community, there are options available for

the uninsured.

But what’s most exciting for Sobel is what’s to come in 2018.

“We are launching an integrative wellness program with workshops on hot topics such as yoga, meditation, nutrition and mindfulness,” she said.

“Plans for that are now underway.”

More excitement is on the horizon for Facey Medical Group in Santa Clarita in 2018. A new, 37,000-square-foot clinic in Canyon Country is slated to open in late July, along with an urgent care center operated by Providence affiliate, Exer Urgent Care. They’re also continuing to enhance services in Valencia with the addition of a new primary care suite at their existing office at the corner of McBean and Valencia, and the expansion of sports medicine services at their office on the Henry Mayo campus.

“Our doctors have been caring for Santa Clarita patients for over three decades, and we feel a really strong connection to Santa Clarita,” said Roscoe Marter, M.D., the group’s regional medical director for Santa Clarita. “Around a third of Santa Clarita sees a Facey doctor, so I think there’s this natural desire to really put roots into our community, whether it’s through health education programs or our baseline concussion assessment program with the Valencia Flyers Hockey club.”

“We’re a partner in the community – not just a business that operates here,” he added. “Many of our doctors live here and are raising their own families, so we want to be a part of something that connects us to home.”

Wellness Education Specialist Nare Davoodi, RN, right, discusses the size of a newborn baby’s stomach in comparison to a feeding bottle with participants Beda, left, and Ruben Hernandez during a four-class series entitled Prenatal & Postpartum Wellness Program presented by Facey Medical Group at the Patient Education Building in Mission Hills. Dan Watson/The Signal

SCV Community Pride ★ HEALTH CARE

THE SIGNAL . SATURDAY, MAY 26, 2018 . H5

SCV

Community

PRIDE Health Care

Henry Mayo Newhall Hospital This is Quality Healthcare

H6 . SATURDAY, MAY 26, 2018 . THE SIGNAL

Health Care

SCV Community Pride ★ HEALTH CARE

Henry Mayo Invests in Advanced Technology to Better Serve Patients

Dr. Stepanian and the DaVinci robot. Courtesy photo

C

arrying out its mission to improve the health of the Santa Clarita Valley community through compassion and excellence in healthcare services, Henry Mayo Newhall Hospital recently invested in an advanced surgical system called the da Vinci Xi. Henry Mayo makes these kinds of investments to give physicians the tools they need to provide top-level healthcare and offer patients more treatment options. When considering new technology acquisitions, Henry Mayo exercises due diligence in eval-

uating the equipment and how it benefits patients (for example: faster healing and recovery times and more positive outcomes).

“Patients are always our priority, and they are the primary reason for the hospital investing in this technology,” said Larry Kidd, Senior Vice President and Chief Clinical Officer at Henry Mayo. “We are very responsive to the requests of patients and to the preferences of our surgeons who are asking for this state-of- the-art equipment.”

Intuitive Surgical designed the da

Vinci Xi System with the goal of further advancing the technology used in minimally invasive surgery for complex diseases and conditions in gynecology, urology, thoracic, cardiac, and general surgery. Henry Mayo surgeons are now using the da Vinci Xi—the latest version available—with positive results.

The system utilizes advanced robotic, computer and optical technologies to assist surgeons. It is the only one of its kind in the Santa Clarita Valley area. The da Vinci Xi is designed to allow surgeons to perform minimally invasive procedures with enhanced vision, precision, dexterity and control. It includes a 3D high-definition Photo by RobComeau.com for Henry vision system that gives surgeons a Mayo Newhall Hospital. close-up view of the area they are opconstruction. erating on.

“Robot-assisted surgery has many The system consists of an ergobenefits, including smaller incisions, nomic surgeon console or consoles, a patient-side cart with three or four less blood loss, less pain and fastinteractive arms, a high-performance er recovery times,” said Henry Mayo vision system and proprietary En- surgeon Sevan Stepanian, MD, who doWrist instruments. Powered by is fellowship-trained in minimally invasive and rostate-of-the-art botic surgery. Dr. technology, the Stepanian persystem is deformed the first signed to scale, robot-assisted “Patients are always our filter and seamsurgery at Henry lessly translate priority, and they are the Mayo in July. the surgeon’s primary reason for the The da Vinci Xi hand movements hospital investing in this Surgical System into more pretechnology” was designed cise movements with the goal of of the EndoWfurther advancing rist instruments. the technology The result is an used in minimally intuitive interface with advanced surgical capa- invasive surgery. The system can be bilities. By providing surgeons with used across a spectrum of minimalsuperior visualization, enhanced dex- ly invasive surgical procedures and terity, greater precision and ergonom- has been optimized for multi-quadic comfort compared to other surgical rant surgeries.

For more information about minapproaches, the da Vinci Xi makes it possible for skilled surgeons to per- imally-invasive surgery, and a list of form minimally invasive procedures da Vinci trained physicians, visit heninvolving complex dissection or re- rymayo.com/davinci.

SCV Community Pride ★ HEALTH CARE

THE SIGNAL . SATURDAY, MAY 26, 2018 . H7

Health Care

Audiology Associates is Hearing Healthcare Excellence!

A

fter more than 15 years in the Santa Clarita Valley, Audiology Associates places patient care at the top of their list. Apparently, Santa Clarity Valley agrees! And while we could sing our accolades at the top of a mountain (Best of Signal and Daily News Readers Choice Award several years running, Chamber’s Minority/Women Owned Business of the Year, The Signal’s Top 51 for 2017, Ultimate Audiologist 2018 and Women in Business: Small Business Award), we

Patrice Rifkind, Au.D., CCC-A puts a hearing aid in the ear of a patient at the Audiology Associates offices in Valencia. Nikolas Samuels/The Signal

wish to point out that we have the best patients around. First and foremost, our thanks go out to you, our valued and important patients. We will always strive to provide better hearing in a supportive and nurturing environment.

“Here at Audiology Associates”, says Doctor of Audiology, Patrice Rifkind, “we take things one patient at a time. Every single person receives individual and personal care. Everyone wants to feel special when they go to the doctor – that’s what we provide: care and better hearing. That’s why so many physicians refer their family members here – they trust us to do a great job and take care of their loved ones.” Hearing technology is constantly evolving and so is the face of a typical hearing aid user. Gone are the days of hearing aids for ‘old people’ – today’s users are younger and more sophisticated than ever and enjoy new options such as Bluetooth devices, invisible hearing aids and iPhone/Android compatible hearing aids. Things have sure changed.

Audiology Associates has over 40 years of combined experience and every single person here is trained to troubleshoot, clean and repair devices – even if you didn’t purchase them

Patrice Rifkind, Au.D., CCC-A poses for a picture in front of the Audiology Associates offices in Valencia. Nikolas Samuels/The Signal here! And don’t forget – we provide

and are proud to give back to those

hearing protection as well! Custom

who have served. We are the only au-

ear plugs, musician earmolds and

diology office owned and operated by

shooting earmolds – we’ve got you

a Doctor of Audiology. Patrice Rifkind,

covered.

Au.D. and colleague Kevin Bolder,

Audiology

Associates

is

also

Au.D. make it their mission to help

pleased to extend our help to our Vet-

everyone HEAR to the best of their

erans in need of audiology services,

ability.

H8 . SATURDAY, MAY 26, 2018 . THE SIGNAL

DaVinci Docs Spread.indd 1

SCV Community Pride ★ HEALTH CARE

SCV Community Pride ★ HEALTH CARE

THE SIGNAL . SATURDAY, MAY 26, 2018 . H9

3/15/18 2:11 PM

H10 . SATURDAY, MAY 26, 2018 . THE SIGNAL

Health Care

SCV Community Pride ★ HEALTH CARE

Valencia Spine & Nerve

BY ALICIA DOYLE

I

n addition to providing the traditional care of neck and back pain at the Valencia Spine & Nerve Institute, Linda M. Chenaur is a holistic doctor with experience in chronic health issues, including chronic fatigue, allergies, weight loss, sugar and hormone balancing, and digestive issues.

“Our spinal decompression for disc injuries, and neuropathy therapy, provide alternatives to drugs and surgery,” said Dr. Chenaur, who has been in practice for 26 years, including 21 years in the Santa Clarita Valley. “Patients have found relief with my holistic approach when other approaches have failed.”

Dr. Chenaur received her Doctorate of Chiropractic degree from Los Angeles College of Chiropractic, where she maintained Dean’s List Status of Academics throughout her education.

She has a Bachelor of Science Degree in Human Biology, and is skilled in the fields of Musculoskeletal diagnosis and treatment, Radiology, and Nutritional Counseling, as well as the alternative fields of Applied Kinesiology, Total Body Modification and Process Oriented Medicine.

Her unique healthcare clinic offers personalized health care programs utilizing the integrated systems of synergistic natural healing and scientific western diagnosis, as well as advanced Eastern (Chinese), Western and European methods that may decrease or eliminate the need for medication or surgery.

At Valencia Spine & Nerve Institute, holistic treatment is available to the entire family in a relaxed environment, and treatment programs are designed specifically for each individual’s body. Dr. Chenaur offers a wide range of services, including advanced chiropractic techniques resulting in faster relief that lasts longer; a holistic approach to disease and suffering; and quality neutraceutical supplementation designed for each individual’s needs.

Serving age ranges from babies to the elderly, the institute mostly serves people in Santa Clarita and the San Fernando Valley, but because of Dr. Chenaur’s specialties, people also travel from San Pedro, Los Angeles, Burbank, Glendale, Pasadena, and even out of state.

The most common reasons people seek her out include preventive health care, pain, diminished quality

Dr. Linda Chenaur uses the spinal decompression machine on a patient at the Valencia Spine & Nerve Institute. Nikolas Samuels/The Signal

of life, fatigue and weight loss. Over the years, she has had a tremendous positive impact on people’s overall quality of life.

“My care has eliminated spinal surgery for many, corrected chronic digestive issues and chronic fatigue, guided patients through healthy weight loss, and maintained a better quality of life for the young and the elderly,” Dr. Chenaur said.

As a result of Dr. Chenaur’s diversified background, patients have also reported relief from such conditions as Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, PMS, Fibromyalgia, stress and burnout and

sugar metabolism imbalances.

“Most people don’t know what it feels like to be really healthy,” Dr. Chenaur added.

“We have come to accept that ‘not sick’ means healthy; this is not true.

I seek to educate and empower my patients and improve their quality of life, reduce the need for surgery and medication whenever possible, and help people navigate their way to a happier, healthier individual.”

She accepts most PPO insurance and limited HMO (Blue Shield) policies that include chiropractic coverage.

Dr. Linda Chenaur does chiropractic manipulation on a patient at the Valencia Spine & Nerve Institute. Nikolas Samuels/The Signal

SCV Community Pride ★ HEALTH CARE

Health Care

THE SIGNAL . SATURDAY, MAY 26, 2018 . H11

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decompression will be your sciatic and back degeneration.

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7KDWÂśV ZK\ D PHGLFDO PDQXIDFWXUHU EDFN SDLQ SODQ WR EHLQJ SDLQ IUHH If you experience any of the following in your And it makes sense. â&#x20AC;˘ An extensive review of your MRI back or neck, chances are your VSHFLDOLVWV QHXURVXUJHRQV DQG HQJLQHHUV KDYH pain is due to a [SHULHQFH DQ\ RI WKH IROORZLQJ LQ \RXU Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s why a medical manufacturer, back Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll get to see everything first hand and FRPH XS ZLWK MXVW WKDW Âą D PDFKLQH WKDW JHQWO\ Â&#x2021; $Q H[WHQVLYH UHYLHZ RI \RXU 05, disc bulge, herniation or degeneration: QHFN FKDQFHV DUH \RXU SDLQ LV GXH WR D pain specialists, neurosurgeons and engineers find out if this amazing treatment will be your JH KHUQLDWLRQ RU GHJHQHUDWLRQ Âť A vice-like squeezing feelingSXOOV \RX DSDUW DQG VWUHWFKHV WKH GLVF WR D in your back have come up with just that â&#x20AC;&#x201C; a machine that pain solution, like it has been for so many FHUWDLQ SRLQW WKDW FDXVHV D GURS LQ SUHVVXUH Âť Sitting causes back or leg pain gently pulls you apart and stretches the disc to other patients.

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GRZQ \RXU OHJVFinally, Some Good News... SXW DURXQG \RXU ZDLVW :HÂśOO VHW WKH PDFKLQH DFFHSWLQJ D GRQDWLRQ FDVK RU FKHFN WR WKH machine to focus on your problem area â&#x20AC;&#x201C; then WR IRFXV RQ \RXU SUREOHP DUHD Âą WKHQ WKH If youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve been suffering with back pain or arm/ ULQJ SDLQ UDGLDWHV LQWR \RXU DUP Hereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s what to do now: system leg pain caused by a disc bulge,DGYDQFHG GHFRPSUHVVLRQ FRPSXWHU V\VWHP ZLOO disc herniation the advanced decompression computer$63&$ RU 'RFWRUV :LWKRXW %RUGHUV 7KH NOLQJ LQ \RXU OHJ RU WRHV will do the rest. Most patients feel better with Due to the expected demand for this QRUPDO SULFH IRU WKLV W\SH RI HYDOXDWLRQ LV GR WKH UHVW 0RVW SDWLHQWV IHHO EHWWHU ZLWK MXVW D or squashed or compressed discs: just a few treatments, and best of all there will treatment, VR \RXÂśUH VDYLQJ D FRQVLGHUDEOH DPRXQW E\ IHZ WUHDWPHQWV DQG EHVW RI DOO WKHUH ZLOO EH QR Until recently, the only advice for many of you be no dangerous drugs, no invasive procedures, 6RPH *RRG 1HZV I suggest calling my office at once.

WDNLQJ PH XS RQ WKLV RIIHU GDQJHURXV GUXJV QR LQYDVLYH SURFHGXUHV DQG suffering in pain was to try what youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve been and no painful exercises.

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G ď ° Just live with it Sincerely, ZLWK KHUQLDWHG GLVFV DQG GHJHQHUDWLYH MRLQW Another study presented at the American If youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re like most, none of these have GLVHDVH Âą ZLWKRXW WKH VLGH HIIHFWV H[HUFLVLQJ Academy of Pain Management in 2007 worked for you or you are afraid of what could

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INSTITUTE &DOO 2XU +RXU +HOS /LQH Dr. Linda Chenaur, D. C.

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H12 . SATURDAY, MAY 26, 2018 . THE SIGNAL

Health Care

SCV Community Pride ★ HEALTH CARE

Heritage Sierra Medical Group Cultivates Strong Ties to the Community and its Patients

BY CULLY SCHNEIDER

H

eritage Sierra Medical Group’s newest location in Valencia celebrated its grand opening last January and has been thriving ever since.

With locations in Palmdale and Lancaster, the next step for HSMG was Santa Clarita Valley. Director of Operations, Steve Roberts explains, “Building on the success we’ve had in the Antelope Valley, it made sense to expand our coordinated care model into the Santa Clarita Valley.”

President and CEO of Heritage Provider Network Dr. Richard Merkin created a nationally recognized, award winning and cohesive healthcare delivery system 30 years ago. The system focuses on the coordinated care model in order to ensure optimal care.

Heritage Sierra Medical Group is its own HMO, with a base that includes over 600,000 patients. “At our practice we have our own case managers and programs that are designed specifically to treat patients normally with regular routine healthy visits as well as those who have disease conditions that require very close, hands on management,” says Ina Gelfound, Heritage Sierra Medical Group’s Marketing Manager. “And to support that, we have our own network.”

HSMG has a network of over 90 primary and specialty care physicians.

All of their specialists are located in

Heritage Sierra Medical Group director of operations Steve Roberts poses for a picture in the office in Valencia. Nikolas Samuels/The Signal Santa Clarita so patients don’t have to travel out of the area to obtain care. “They don’t have to go to Los Angeles; they don’t have to go to Orange County, so we maintain our own total comprehensive network,” says Gelfound.

Another draw for Heritage Sierra Medical Group’s patients is its close ties to Henry Mayo Hospital. Gelfound explains, “We are in partnership and staffed at Henry Mayo Hospital and that is a unique feature to this practice because other major

primary care groups in Santa Clarita do not permit elective surgeries or use of outpatient facilities for Henry Mayo,” remarks Gelfound.

Staying active in the community is important to Heritage Sierra Medical Group. For the second year, it proudly holds the title of main event sponsor for Santa Clarita’s annual Cowboy Festival held April 19 through April 22. The clinic will have a booth offering free glucose testing, blood pressure screenings and pulse ox monitoring.

You do not have to wait until your next open enrollment period to change your primary care physician.

For more information on how to become a Heritage Sierra Medical Group Member, please call: 661.273.7346

As charity sponsor for last December’s HandsOn’s 5k/10k Holiday Fun Run at Six Flags Magic Mountain, Heritage Sierra Medical Group takes pride in continuing to grow roots in the community. “We see ourselves as a community partner,” says Roberts, “and we invest not only in the local clinic and the staff, but in the community as well.”

HSMG offers same day appointments and accepts most PPO, EPO, POS and Medicare plans.

Medical Services include • Internal Medicine • Family Medicine • Pediatrics • In-house Specialty Consults • Same Day Appointments • Walk-In Clinic • Telemedicine • Dedicated Patient Advocates • Onsite Lab & X-Ray

25775 McBean Pkwy, Suite 106 Valencia, CA 91355 661.362.8100

Most HMO, PPO, EPO, Covered CA, Medicare & Medicare Advantage Health Plans Accepted.

THE SIGNAL . SATURDAY, MAY 26, 2018 . D1

SCV Community Pride â&#x2DC;&#x2026; BUSINESS

SCV

Community

PRIDE Business

CBC Cleaning & Restoration

Nikolas Samuels/for The Signal

D2 . SATURDAY, MAY 26, 2018 . THE SIGNAL

Business

SCV Community Pride ★ BUSINESS

20 years of service and smiles at Santa Clarita Advanced Dentistry O to create a warm environment for

By Cully Schneider

pening its doors in 1998, Santa Clarita Advanced Dentistry has spent 20 years

serving the dental needs of Santa Clarita Valley residents. Husband

and wife team, Drs. Allen and Kelly Smudde opened their dental office with the goal of improving their patients’ well-being through quality and patient centric care.

Dr. Kelly, a fourth-generation dentist, earned her Doctor of Dental Surgery degree at

their staff and patients. “When you

become a patient at our practice, you join a family,” explains Market-

ing Director Justin Zepeda. “A family who genuinely cares about their patients and that constantly looks for ways to be of better service.”

That level of caring extends to the dentists’ community. Santa Clarita Advanced Dentistry believes in staying active in local charities and organizations in order to better serve its com-

Northwestern

munity.

University Dental School. Her grandfather was one of Indiana’s first

oral

sur-

geons and her family’s

roots

in the dental profession date

back

100 years.

Dr.

Allen

found

himself

immersed

To

date, Dr. Kel-

Dr. Allen found himself immersed in the dental industry at a very young age when he would spend hours in his dad’s dental lab, hand-sculpting teeth from wax.

Smudde have

do-

nated

over

1 million dollars Santa

to

the Clari-

ta community through charitable tributions

conto

the American

in

Tom Cruze/for The Signal

ly and Allen ing dental supplies to orphanages

fices is our high standard of care,”

lacking the tools needed for proper

adds Zepeda. “We hold our team to

oral hygiene.

the highest standard of customer

Recently, on February 16, Santa

service…We also offer our patients

Clarita Advanced Dentistry offered

the best possible care by supplying

a Free Day of Dentistry, allowing lo-

the latest technology in dentistry in

cals to receive either one cleaning, extraction or filling in order to promote healthy oral hygiene throughout the community. This month, starting on May 4, they celebrate

order to provide the highest level of service.”

Contributing to that high level of service are Dr. Inbo Cho, DDS and Dr. Ryan Schatz, DDS. Dr. Cho is

the dental industry at a very young

Heart Associ-

their 20 year anniversary in Santa

age when he would spend hours in

ation, the American Cancer Soci-

Clarita with 20 acts of kindness.

his dad’s dental lab, hand-sculpting

ety, the Boys and Girls Club, Op-

These acts include bringing baked

teeth from wax. He also later com-

eration Gratitude, local high school

goods to local firefighters, provid-

Schatz is certified in advanced oral

pleted his Doctor of Dental Surgery

programs and many other organiza-

ing free treatment to a randomly se-

sedation techniques.

Degree at Northwestern University

tions.

lected patient, delivering flowers to

To better serve its patients and

a local women’s shelter and spon-

their busy schedules, the office of-

soring local athletic teams.

fers appointments during week-

Dental School.

Santa Clarita Advanced Dentistry

Since opening their dental office

expanded its generous reach to un-

20 years ago, both dentists strive

derdeveloped countries by donat-

“What separates us from other of-

certified in oral implantology, oral sedation and Invisalign, while Dr.

days, evenings and Saturdays.

SCV Community Pride ★ BUSINESS

THE SIGNAL . SATURDAY, MAY 26, 2018 . D3

Business

Brownlowe strong in the law pert legal services.

A resident of Valencia since rom military service 2003, Brownlowe is a veteras a fighter pilot to an of the U.S. Marine Corps years of practicing law, who served this country for attorney James Brownlowe more than two decades as a brings a wealth of different Marine Fighter Pilot flying off life experiences to his work aircraft carriers in the Mediterranean and Persian Gulf reon his clients’ behalf.

“My diverse educational gions. He also worked as a background gives me a unique Test Pilot both in the military ability to look at complex prob- and industry.

Although he went to law lems from both a risk mitigaschool and became an attortion and analytical perspecney later in tive,” said life, his pasBrownlowe, sion for the who graduatlaw has been “I am here to ed from the a lifelong afCollege of craft an Estate fair. Having Financial served his Planning Plan that will be country and with a Cerright for you and working in tificate in Fiprivate innancial Planyour family.” dustry, he ning. “This, now wants James Brownlowe I believe, to serve his will help me community achieve the and his clibest results ents as their for my legal clients.” family attorney.

The Law Office of James F. “I want to be your family lawBrownlowe in Valencia offers yer,” said Brownlowe, who relegal services with practice arceived his Juris Doctorate from eas in estate planning, personthe University of West Los Anal injury law, and aviation ex-

By Alicia Doyle

F

Tom Cruze/for The Signal A resident of Valencia since 2003, Brownlowe is a veteran of the U.S. Marine Corps who served this country for more than two decades as a Marine fighter pilot. geles, graduating as the class Salutatorian. His undergraduate and graduate work is in business and engineering, having degrees in resources management from the Na-

val Academy and engineering management from Florida Institute of Technology.

At his Valencia practice, his philosophy is to give personalized service in a personalized setting.

“I intentionally keep my practice small so I can better serve the unique situations of my clients and can meet my clients at time that is convenient for them,” he said. “I will even go to my client’s home to meet if they desire.”

None of us want to think that we may leave this world someday, but we all need to plan on what happens to our family when we do, he said.

That’s why estate planning “is a must for all of us that have assets that will be left to

our loved ones,” Brownlowe emphasized. “I am here to craft an Estate Plan that will be right for you and your family.”

Secondly, “hopefully you’ll never experience an injury to you or a loved one, but, in the event you do, I’d like to be your family lawyer that helps you get what you need to make your family financially whole again after the injury or loss.”

As a lawyer, “I enjoy being able to help people,” Brownlowe added.

As a Marine, “I was there to serve my country. Now, I look to serve my community as a lawyer that can help families plan their estate legacy or help them recover what is due them should they suffer an unfortunate personal injury.”

The Law Office of James F. Brownlowe www.brownlowelaw.com

• Estate Planning / Probate • Personal Injury • Aviation Expert jim@brownlowelaw.com

661-388-1592

3

AVIATION EXPERT

ESTATE PLANNING

With over 35 years as a professional pilot, both in the military and civilian worlds, I am especially qualified to assist in aviation litigation in an “of counsel” role or to appear as an aviation expert witness. As a graduate of the U.S. Naval Test Pilot School and the University of Southern California’s Aviation Safety Program, I am well versed in aviation safety management systems, operational risk management, human factors, operational control, and accident investigation.

Who needs Estate Planning?

Everyone. Estate Planning is a process that involves your family, other individuals, and potentially charities and business interests.

It also involves designation of a person that will be able to make vital health care decisions or take care of other important matters on your behalf should you become incapacitated and unable to make those decisions yourself.

3 PERSONAL INJURY Nobody plans to get hurt or have their property damaged. But, when you do — you may find yourself facing medical bills, repair charges, lost wages, and loss of the ability to do the things you enjoy or even the necessities of life. Often, insurance will not cover it all. A personal injury attorney can help you get through this ordeal and make you financially whole again.

D4 . SATURDAY, MAY 26, 2018 . THE SIGNAL

Business

SCV Community Pride ★ BUSINESS

Not Your Average Santa Clarita Bail Agency – So Much More!

By Signal Staff

S

CV Bail Bonds isn’t just the most convenient and well-known bail agency in the Santa Clarita Valley to go to when a friend, family member or loved one finds themselves in a spot of trouble -- their Valencia office is also conveniently located directly across the street from the Santa Clarita Valley Sheriff’s Station.

SCV Bail Bonds has been recognized year after year -- voted the “Best of,” receiving the highly lauded, Blue Ribbon every year since 2014 for its outstanding service and support of the community. This helps explain why the company has been able to gradually and successfully expand the services they offer to a variety of customers right here in the Santa Clarita Valley and beyond.

“We offer the community nocost, caring consultations and go to great lengths to create a comfortable, safe place for our clients in their times of need and uncertainty. It’s an unfortunate fact of life that people often need a bail agent during what is often one of the toughest times they’ll ever face; knowing a loved one has been arrested and is in trouble,” said Robin Sandoval-March, co-owner of SCV Bail Bonds.

In fact, several of their commitments to customer service and details of the bail process are spelled out on the company’s website, at www.SCVBailBonds. com. “You’ll never have to worry about us charging any hidden fees, extra charges or taxes.

You’ll always know exactly what you’re paying for before signing any contract or application. We work with you every step of the

way,” according to the website.

To that end, the company also offers zero percent financing, and the ability to reach someone to talk to 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

While many other bail bond companies may make similar types of promises, SCV Bail Bonds, a family-owned and operated company, puts words into actions in a variety of ways. “Our family focuses on what your family needs first, anytime day or night,” Sandoval-March said, “and you can always speak, with a caring, professional bail bondsman who understands what you’re going through.”

In addition to always delivering top-notch, award-winning service for their clients, SCV Bail Bonds has fundamentally changed the experience of using the services of a bail bondsman. The evidence of that can be seen in the addition of the latest technologies, including e-signature forms online, bail from your mobile phones and tablets, social media apps and more!

SCV Bail Bonds just announced the opening of a second location in Canyon Country, (which will be close to the new SCV Sheriff Station slated to open in 2020) and was recently described in a local publication as a spot where you can get “bail, mail and coffee, while you wait.”

That’s right. As an extension of their services, the new Canyon Country location also houses Your Mailbox Direct and Priority Ground. So, in addition to finding top-notch professionals in the bail bond industry, a cus-

SCV Bail Bonds just announced the opening of a second location in Canyon Country.

Nikolas Samuels/for The Signal tomer can receive all of their packing and shipping needs and many other services, such as: Notary public, Live Scan fingerprinting, document handling, postage, fax, scan, print, shred, computer rentals, office/shipping supplies, and so much more!

Priority Ground, along with their coffee, tea, snack and refreshment choices, also features a business lounge with Wi-Fi, USB outlets, acoustic open mic nights, and co-working tables. For further information on Your Mailbox Direct and Priority Ground and the range of services and products they offer, log on to www.YourMailboxDirect.com, and www.PriorityGround.com, or call 661367-6182. Your Mailbox Direct offers convenience for even the busiest work schedules, with

hours of operation Monday-Friday, from 7:30 a.m. to 7:00 p.m., Saturdays 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., and closed Sundays.

“The bail agency, mailbox store and coffee bar were designed with customer convenience and a bit of nostalgia in mind,” the Canyon Country residents said, describing how she and her husband, Nuri March, enjoy having their new location close to where they live in the community. “In our new SCV bail agency location, we created a modern office space where we can assist the communities’ loved ones or friends in privacy and comfort.”

“At Priority Ground, you’ll find an Edison bulb lit coffee bar, where you can enjoy a cup of specialty coffee, espresso, latte, cappuccino or organic tea. At Your Mailbox Direct, you can ship a package, rent a mailbox or handle your small business needs; all of these services are now under one roof in a cozy atmosphere -- with a great view of the trains as they roll by.” Pointing out how their customers can watch the trains on Santa Clarita Val-

ley’s historic tracks from the business lounge of their Soledad Canyon Road location.

And perhaps most exciting for the dynamic couple, is the potential they have for their new location, which creates a nexus where their clients and customers can handle all of their everyday needs in a new, comfortable setting all under one roof.

Both locations of SCV Bail Bonds are open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week and holidays!

SCV Bail Bonds, Canyon Country location: 20605 Soledad Canyon Road, Suite #100, Canyon Country, CA 91351 (Between Ruether Avenue and corner of Furnivall Avenue) SCV Bail Bonds, Valencia location: 23734 Valencia Blvd., Suite #300, Valencia, CA 91355 SCV Bail Bonds has local, licensed agents available 24/7 for their clients. Anyone seeking information about a Santa Clarita Bail Bond can call their local number day or night at 661-299-BAIL (2245). The tollfree number is 877-422-4591.

Hablamos Español!

Courtesy photos

Priority Ground, along with their coffee, tea, snack and refreshment choices, also features a business lounge with Wi-Fi, USB outlets, acoustic open mic nights, and co-working tables.

THE SIGNAL . SATURDAY, MAY 26, 2018 . D5

SCV Community Pride ★ BUSINESS

Our family will focus on what family Fast Approvalj Easy Payment your Terms j Checks Okay testic Approvalj Easy Payment Terms j Checks Okay needs first, Violence j Drugs j All Charges j Comfortable Offices j Free Advice c Violence j Drugs j All Charges j Comfortable Offices j Free Advice anytime www.SCVBailBonds.com www.SCVBailBonds.com day or night.

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D6 . SATURDAY, MAY 26, 2018 . THE SIGNAL

SCV Community Pride ★ BUSINESS

CBC Cleaning

When disaster strik

In business and family owned for over 37 years, CBC Cleaning and Restorat Company. Since 1978, our mission has been to provide top customer ser

CMO – Company Motivational Officer/Mascot

Play together– Stay together Offering 24/7 Emergency Service

IICRC Ce Techni CBC Warehouse 30 yr Anniversary

Schedule your next carpet or tile cleaning with CBC today.

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THE SIGNAL . SATURDAY, MAY 26, 2018 . D7

SCV Community Pride â&#x2DC;&#x2026; BUSINESS

& Restoration

kes, call CBC first!

tion has repeatedly been selected as the Best Santa Clarita Carpet Cleaning rvice to members of the Santa Clarita and northern Los Angeles counties.

Continual Education Training

Restoring Kindness to our Military

Certified icians

Giving back to the Community

erred vendor for all major insurance companies!

ll for an estimate.

1.294.2221 www.cbcfirst.com

D8 . SATURDAY, MAY 26, 2018 . THE SIGNAL

Business

SCV Community Pride ★ BUSINESS

Van Swearingen’s driving force

By Signal Staff

S

ally Van Swearingen sees beauty and power as more than just

ideals.

They’re part of her driving force.

That’s because Van Swearingen is, as one of her clients once described the salon owner who also owns her own cosmetics line and even wrote the book on the subject, “It’s Not Over Yet!: Reclaiming your REAL BEAUTY POWER in your 40s, 50s and Beyond” -- is a “total beauty artist.”

“As a makeup artist, hair artist and esthetician, I put the three together to see the beauty in every woman,” Van Swearingen said.

Van Swearingen approaches her clients’ beauty needs holistically because, depending on

Sally Van Swearingen the person, everyone has a different need, but perhaps most importantly, every woman has beauty that’s just waiting to be brought out and highlighted.

While Van Swearingen works with her signature cosmetics

line at The A List salon she operates, she frequently follows the “less is more” philosophy when it comes to hair and make-up work.

Like most people, Van Swearingen’s views on beauty and power are shaped by her journey, which she shares in her book, “It’s Not Over Yet!” discussing how her mother’s strength and enthusiasm are part of why Sally now enjoys encouraging women to not “give up” on themselves.

And men are part of her clientele list, as well, as Van Swearingen has worked on men and women in Hollywood, through work she’s done on national broadcasts, like when she prepared the NBC Sports broadcasters in the press box while the Los Angeles Kings were making a recent Stanley Cup run. In fact, a picture of Van Swearingen working on the broadcast TV talent went viral during the NHL playoffs.

Her book also calls upon readers to reflect and interact with questions in a workbook style... reflections on Sally’s stories, tips and observations about how we take care of ourselves from a beauty and power perspective.

“In my life and professional experience I see that ladies tend to move into two different categories as we get older,”

she shared.

“We either make the mistake of, ‘We’re trying too hard,’ because we’re loading on all the make-up and dressing too young,” she said. “The other thing we tend to do is to get into a bit of a rut, so to speak -- women keep their hair and makeup a certain way, and they tend to keep that look the rest of their lives.”

However, Van Swearingen’s strategy in her salon revolves around revealing for women that sometimes “real” beauty can be a simple hair color change, slightly different hair style or simply highlighting facial features that have been ignored in the past; features that could just use a little more attention. More dominance in one area, while softening another.

“I’ve been told that my innate talent is in updating a woman’s look,” Van Swearingen said, adding that it’s not about plastic surgery or losing a huge amount of weight.

“Women sometimes think they need more than they actually do,” she said, and by working with an expert like Van Swearingen, people can strike that balance that allows them to feel and look a lot better without having to put in a lot of work, or buy an expensive line of products.

“I don’t want women giving

Sally Van Swearingen sees beauty and power as more than just ideals.

Courtesy photos up on themselves, and I think we need to realize that there’s all these things available to us to keep our beauty power going authentically,” Van Swearingen said.

The chapters in “It’s Not Over Yet!” demonstrate what Sally’s talking about, blending life experience with her beauty power tips: whether she’s explaining how to make lips look younger and fuller to telling about how she learned lyrical jazz from Hollywood legend Mickey Rooney’s son.

“What I wanted to be sure to tell clients is that beauty power is defined as a lot of things,”

Celebrating 10 Years of Beauty Power in Santa Clarita 818 974-3990 | The A LIST | 23460 Cinema Drive Suite G | Valencia

she explained, adding she always starts with a very subtle change at the first appointment.

“I am that person that cautiously moves because you have to make sure that you do it in a way that works for their personality and lifestyle” To see Sally for a consultation call 661 260-1136 To order Sally’s book: https://www.amazon.com/ Its-Not-Over-Yet-Reclaiming/ dp/0990304760 To join Sally’s team or collaborate email at SallyVanSwearingen@gmail.com

SCV Community Pride ★ BUSINESS

Business

THE SIGNAL . SATURDAY, MAY 26, 2018 . D9

Remodeling Pros provides quality craftsmanship with clients every step of the way to achieve the exact look they desire. he mission at SCV Remodeling Past projects completed by SCV Pros is simple: to provide quality Remodeling Pros include a full kitchcraftsmanship and personalized en remodel with maple cabinets, a service to every customer. stainless steel sink, granite countServing customers throughout San- er tops, and waterproof vinyl plank ta Clarita, “We treat your home as if it flooring. They also did a complete were ours, where no job is too small,” bathroom remodel with a shower said Brandon Loveless, owner and replacement, tub relocation with a CEO. “We are known for our profes- free-standing tub, new vanities and sionalism, quality craftsmanship and sinks, new lighting and a new tile top-notch customer service.” floor, as well as an additional walkIf you’re looking to remodel your in closet. kitchen, SCV Remodeling Pros will “I want people to feel comfortupdate floors, cabinets, counterable and understand every step of tops, trim and lighting, and even the process, and why we do what we provide storage options for growing do,” Loveless said. “We do things families or a more modern look. For right. We pull bathrooms, permits and the pros at follow code SCV Remodenforcement, eling can so we go that transform extra mile for the floors, our clients.” counters, To this end, light fixtures SCV Remodand applieling Pros is ances. offering emWhen it ployment opcomes to tile portunities, and flooring, Brandon Loveless, owner and and is currentthese pros CEO, SCV Remodeling Pros ly seeing qualcan create ified individa beautiful uals to join space in any their team. room with Candidates updated flooring and tiles. They also specialize in outdoor decks for enter- must have five years professional experience in the construction taining and relaxing.

Additionally, SCV Remodeling Pros and remodeling industry or related offer custom carpentry with cus- trades, as well as a professional aptom woodwork, and can provide ba- pearance and exceptional communisic services for home repairs. These cation skills.

“Customer satisfaction is our top pros also offer conceptual digital design imaging, in which they work priority,” Loveless said.

By Alicia Doyle

T

Clients are encouraged to express special requests, “and we are happy to work with you.”

• Remodeling • Kitchens • Bathrooms

• Tile & Flooring • Conceptual Digital Imaging • Decks, Patios, Patio Covers

▪ Remodeling

Photos by Tom Cruze/for The Signal Loveless, who was born and raised in the Midwest, started his construction career on a handshake deal and a good word.

“Times have changed and so has the way we do business, but I have always carried that same attitude about doing business,” he said.

At SCV Remodeling Pros, Loveless is personally involved in every job.

“We treat your home as if it was ours and make every effort to be flexible with your schedule,” he said.

As a husband and a father of four, “I understand the household can be a busy place,” he added.

Clients are encouraged to express special requests, “and we are happy to work with you,” Loveless said.

“No job is too small. You and your home are important to us.”

Loveless is also a United States Marine Corps Veteran – and offers discounts to military service members.

• Commercial • Custom Carpentry • Home Repairs

▪ Tile & Flooring

At the end of the day, “I enjoy seeing the product we created,” he said.

“I enjoy transforming a space. I enjoy seeing the project from start to finish.”

▪ Commercial

▪ Kitchens Conceptual Digital Imaging ▪ Custom Carpentry • Commercial • Tile &▪ Flooring • Remodeling ▪ Bathrooms • Conceptual ▪ Decks, Patios, Patio Covers ▪ Home Repairs • •Custom Carpentry Digital Imaging • Kitchens Commercial • Tile & Flooring • Remodeling • •Home Repairs Patios, Patio Covers • Bathrooms Custom Carpentry • Conceptual Digital Imaging • Kitchens • Decks,

• Commercial • Tile & Flooring • Custom Carpentry • Conceptual Digital Imaging • Home Repairs • Decks, Patios, Patio Covers • Bathrooms • Home Repairs • Decks, Patios, Patio Covers Every Project Supervised Directly by Owner, Brandon 661-583-3020

Scvremodelingpros.com brandon@scvremodelingpros.com

Now Hiring!

License # 1025140

Every Project Supervised Directly Every Project Supervised Directly Owner,Brandon Brandon Every Project Supervised Directly by bybyOwner, Owner, Brandon

Now Hiring!

661-583-3020 661-583-3020 661-583-3020 SCVRemodelingPros.com Scvremodelingpros.com

Scvremodelingpros.com brandon@SCVRemodelingPros.com brandon@scvremodelingpros.com brandon@scvremodelingpros.com

Now Hiring!

Now Hiring!

License # 1025140

# 1025140 License #License 1025140

oject Supervised Directly by Owner, Brandon

D10 . SATURDAY, MAY 26, 2018 . THE SIGNAL

Business

SCV Community Pride ★ BUSINESS

Intertex sensitive to market in expediting approvals and bringing projects to market ntertex Property Advisors as quickly as possible,” Oldhas a unique combination hafer said. “Intertex Property of experience that cannot Advisors is a boutique operbe found elsewhere. ation by design, as we value “In conjunction with our af- being able to give each propfiliate company we have been erty owner, investment partreal estate developers in ner and tenant the attention Southern California for over they deserve.”

20 years and general conThe services offered at Intractors for over 35 years,” tertex Property Advisors vary said Darcey Oldhafer, Presi- in demand based on fluctuadent. “This gives us a unique tions in the market. perspective into all sides of “In the last few years we the development and proper- have been very busy with ty management equation.” third party development work,” Oldhafer said.

The economy has been conducive to new con“Our main struction where objective is to it hadn’t been in prior years, she add value to noted. every owner’s “Our property management serbottom line.” vices are steadily Darcey Oldhafer, increasing while President, Intertex we retain all of Property Advisors our prior contracts,” Oldhafer said. “Longevity of relationships “We understand timing is key to our success.” and property value concerns Intertex Property Advisors of owners as well as issues serves all of Southern Calithat are critical to tenants. fornia, but is focused mainWe have vast experience ly on Los Angeles, Kern and with various partners, from Ventura counties. multi-billion dollar invest“Our main objective is ment trusts to individuals,” to add value to every ownsaid Oldhafer, noting that In- er’s bottom line,” Oldhafer tertex manages properties emphasized. “We do this ranging from 4,800 square through effective managefeet, to more than one mil- ment of existing properties lion square feet. as well as development of “Through our relation- new projects. Our goal is to ships with various agencies satisfy every client and grow throughout Southern Cali- our business based on their fornia we are able to assist recommendations.”

By Alicia Doyle

I

Courtesy photos

Above all, “we are committed to work in partnership with our employees, investors, and clients to achieve superior quality and maximized value,” she added.

“We believe that our high levels of professionalism, honesty, and integrity make a difference in our industry,” Oldhafer said. “This difference has enabled our

companies to achieve sustained,

profitable

lead us to continued success in the future.”

INTERTEX PROPERTY ADVISORS INC.

PROTECTING

YOUR ASSET

MAXIMIZING

growth

since our inception and will

YOUR INVESTMENT

28338 Constellation Rd. #900 Valencia, CA 91355 (661) 702-2222 www.intertexpropertycompanies.com License Number 01941464

SCV Community Pride ★ BUSINESS

Business

THE SIGNAL . SATURDAY, MAY 26, 2018 . D11

Green Thumb and its reputation for quality Green Thumb Garden Center

Transform Your Garden into Something Wonderful Photos by Tom Cruze/for The Signal

By Alicia Doyle

Customers also enjoy browsing through a large selection of indoor Green Thumb Garden Center is a and outdoor plants, including cacti, family-owned business started more succulents, evergreens, ferns, wathan seven decades ago. ter plants, tropical plants, annuals, “We offer exceptional service perennials, Bonsai, roses, grasses, and advice for residential garden- drought tolerant plants, ground coving, unique gift items for home and ers, milkweed, herbs and veggies, garden, top-of-the-line patio furni- citrus, shrubs and trees. ture, and a beautiful, quiet, peaceGreen Thumb also offers planters, ful place to shop,” said Bryan Payne, outdoor patio furniture and garden general manager, adding that Caliart; as well as items for the house fornia-Certified Nursery Professionand home, including candles, pilals are on staff every day. lows, doormats, wreaths, silk plants, Over the years, Green Thumb has continued its tradition of “friendly lanterns, place mats, and decorative customer service with a smile,” and baskets.

“Customers also love our big maintains one of the best reputaevents: Spring Opening, Fall Festitions for a quality garden center in val, Christmas Open House, comSouthern California. plete with raffle prizes, cookies, Customers choose Green Thumb popcorn, and special recipe lemon for the superior customer service, fizz beverage,” the knowledgePayne said. Adable garden exditionally, “they perts on-site, love our weekly and the quality The most popular newsletter with of plants in exofferings at Green change for an our ad, coupon, Thumb include its affordable cost garden article, to the customer. and recipes.” large nursery and “We ofIn related efgreenhouse, as fer top-quality forts, Green plants and rewell as traditional Thumb partners lated products,” with local garand organic Payne said, den clubs, ingarden products. as well as a cluding the San“knowledgeable ta Clarita Rose staff to ensure Society, Comgardening sucmunity Gardens cess, and a positive gardening expeof Santa Clarita, Santa Clarita Garrience.” den Club, Santa Clarita Koi and WaGreen Thumb also offers a broad ter Garden Club, Sunshine Garden selection of unusual plant varieties; Club (an affiliate of the California as well as seasonal special events Garden Clubs), Garden Club of Acton and seminars.

Agua Dulce, and many local public The most popular offerings at Green Thumb include its large nurs- schools.

“We take pride in our garden cenery and greenhouse, as well as traditer and want the shopping experitional and organic garden products. ence to be so wonderful, custom“We also offer a large selection ers will want to shop here all year of fruit trees and vegetables, with long, not just for spring planting and most varieties adapted for our local climate,” said Payne, adding that Christmas trees,” Payne said.

Green Thumb Garden Center is loGreen Thumb also sells lady bugs cated at 23734 Newhall Ave. in Old and other beneficial insects.

Satisfied customers say they par- Town Newhall. For more information, ticularly appreciate the friendly ser- call 661-259-1071; or visit www.greenthumb.com vice and professional advice.

Whether informal and cheerfully chaotic, or elegant & formal, a successful garden is the result of careful planning-rich tapestries of colors, textures, & shapes in natural harmony. Let our experts help you to reawaken your garden.

Select from top quality trees, shrubs, ground covers, annuals & perennials, as well as unique garden art and exquisite outdoor casual furniture from America’s top manufacturers.

23734 Newhall Ave. Old Town Newhall (661) 259-1071

OPEN DAILY 9-5:30PM www.greenthumb.com wwwfacebook.com/greenthumb.santaclarita

D12 . SATURDAY, MAY 26, 2018 . THE SIGNAL

Business

SCV Community Pride ★ BUSINESS

CBC Cleaning and Restoration on a mission since 1978

By Signal Staff

teams IICRC certified in everything from mold remediation to fixing the BC Cleaning and Restoration structural problems that come with is a family owned operation the type of damage fire can cause. in every sense of the word.

“We’re pretty proud of the profesIt’s run by the husband and wife sional education we maintain with all team of Gordon and Debbie Glasnow, our staff,” Glasnow said, “every lead and just like families do, the busi- technician is IICRC certified in, at a ness has grown and expanded over minimum, carpet, upholstery and wathe years, becoming a full-service ter damage -- and then in our restocompany that’s not only there to help ration department, we have specialout in an emergency, but there to do ized certifications in structural drying, it with the care and compassion you mold remediation, and lead renomight expect from someone you’ve vation -- and we also do bimonthly known for years. in-service training.”

Gordon Glasnow started the busiOne of the company’s trademarks ness 40 years ago, when he puris its ability to help clients restore chased Carpet Beauty Care, hence their property to its pre-loss condithe CBC, which is how some of their tion, and often better. State of the longtime customers still know them art equipment, procedures and a today. His wife, Debbie came on professional, caring staff help cliboard shortly after. They are proud ents feel a sense of relief and conto announce CBC’s 40 year anniverfidence that their lives will return to sary this year which is quite an acnormal after a crisis. complishment through the ups and Just last year, three condominidowns of economies, company um units tragically caught fire in growth and expansion and diversificathe Saugus area and in an instant, tion of services. The company’s sucthree families were left homeless, cess has been fueled by hard work Glasnow recalled. “In addition to and dedication to deliver consistent the horror of losing your home and quality service at a fair price.

CBC’s original services included possessions, there is the disruption carpet and upholstery cleaning but and stress of where you will relocate through the years have grown to in- and try to regain normalcy” she said. clude tile/grout cleaning, stone res- “This is why it is so important for toration, specialty area rug cleaning, CBC’s staff to be especially patient as well as emergency and restoration and sensitive while working with our services for water, fire and mold. clients”. “In the end when we’re This expansion of available services looking at the ‘Before and After’ pictures, it is so came as CBC exrewarding to perienced the hear all of our need to be a customers’ re“complete seractions and vice company” appreciation that not only reof CBC’s work. sponds to an Debbie was emergency but quick to credit also provides all CBC’s team in the reconstruclarge part for tion services Debbie Glasnow, CBC the success, necessary to fulnoting that ly restore somenot only has one’s property the company after a disaster.

“CBC has grown with the Santa Clar- been able to survive through tough ita Valley”, Debbie Glasnow said, economic times because it’s trusted sharing how some of their proudest by nearly every major insurance commoments are how they’ve been able pany when it’s time for repairs, but to help many families of friends and the great word-of-mouth reputation it neighbors in the community through has with clients and the countless some of their most difficult and chal- customer referrals. CBC has more than a handful of employees with a lenging times.

By the mid-1990s, Gordon Glasnow dozen or more years of experience and CBC Cleaning and Restoration (two employees have been with CBC became a licensed general contrac- over 28 yrs each), and a few who retor, RIA Certified Restorer and had tired after more than 10 years with

C

“We’ve been fortunate to have a lot of great employees.”

Photos by Nikolas Samuels/The Signal CBC. The relationships that can be built over that kind of time are difficult to duplicate, Glasnow noted.

“We’ve been fortunate to have a lot of great employees,” she said, sitting at her desk where the company’s fun holiday cards, each featuring a group picture of the CBC team from different years, sit alongside pictures of the rest of the Glasnow family including their family dog and CBC mascot- Cody. Cody is our CMO- Company Motivational Officer.

He comes to work and puts a smile on our faces every day!

Through years of growth- thanks to many loyal SCV customers and friends- CBC has vowed to give back to the community via donations and contributions to various organizations. “Our family and all of CBC staff and their families live and play in SCV and are happy to be a part of this community so we feel it is important to give back and have done so for many years.” Just about two years ago, the company

began a campaign called “Restoring Kindness,” a play on what they do that also works toward the goal of giving.

Every month, CBC Cleaning and Restoration asks the community through its Facebook page or word of mouth, a recommendation for local nonprofits that could use a little boost. By donating each month to a different cause, the company has shared thousands of dollars with SCV charities. “Last year around the holidays, CBC employees performed random acts of kindness by going out and giving cash and gift cards to unsuspecting locals, which was fun for the team and the community,” Glasnow said.

The Glasnows, Cody and CBC staff would like to thank Santa Clarita customers and friends for their loyalty and patronage through its 40 years in business. We have customers that have been with us since day one! That’s 40 years of loyalty, friendship and referrals! What more could a business ask for?

SCV Community Pride â&#x2DC;&#x2026; ADVANCED AUDIOLOGY

THE SIGNAL . SATURDAY, MAY 26, 2018 . G1

SCV

Community

PRIDE Advanced Audiology

Advanced Audiology Listens to Community

G2 . SATURDAY, MAY 26, 2018 . THE SIGNAL

SCV Community Pride ★ ADVANCED AUDIOLOGY

My wife made me come in to Advanced Audiology because she kept complaining the TV was too loud and she had to repeat herself all the time. They told me I had a loss in the range where my wife’s voice was and I would have problems in noisy situations.

I still didn’t believe it but they said I could do a trial at home with the hearing aids. After just one week my wife was so happy and I couldn’t believe what I was missing. These hearing aids have changed my life and saved my marriage because I thought I’m too young to wear hearing aids.

Thanks to Advanced Audiology. D.M.

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THE SIGNAL . SATURDAY, MAY 26, 2018 . G3

SELECTIVE HEARING? LET’S END THE DEBATE NOW....

BOTH OF YOU COME IN FOR A FREE HEARING SCREENING. Are These Things Happening to You? • • • • •

The TV is blasting You’re frustrated because you have to repeat yourself?

You feel left out of the conversation when you’re out with friends.

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You fight with your spouse because there was a misunderstanding about what was said.

• You stop wanting to go out and do the things you love because it takes too much effort to hear?

No Problem.. Advanced Audiology has a solution for you. We save relationships through better communication with better hearing.

Call Now to Experience Our Exact Match Hearing Process™ With our exclusive “Exact Match Hearing Process™” that guarantees you will be happy with your results. Your advanced hearing specialist will program them to meet your hearing needs, and make sure they fit comfortably. The goal of the hearing aid is to make every day sounds audible along with being clear and pleasant.

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scvadvancedaudiology.com

TE 103 | VALENCIA | CA | 91355 4/30/18 10:06 AM

G4 . SATURDAY, MAY 26, 2018 . THE SIGNAL

SCV Community Pride ★ ADVANCED AUDIOLOGY

Advanced Audiology

ADVANCED AUDIOLOGY

We Hear You

By Jim Walker

“I

take pride in my community and in helping people hear better,” said Nola Aronson.

“At Advanced Audiology, we educate our clients and help them lead better social lives because we not only improve their hearing but also their communication at the same time.”

Aronson (M.A., CCC-A, board member of the California Academy of Audiology) established Advanced Audiology in Valencia in 2010 – but, before that, she successfully grew two other practices in the Santa Clarita Valley and has helped hearing impaired patients locally since 1987.

Aronson doesn’t just live and work in the SCV. She has been assisting the community through education, business leadership and local charities for more than 30 years. “Advanced Audiology donates ten percent of its hearing aid profits to local programs that benefit children’s education, cancer research and issues relating to women and teenage girls,” she said.

We Listen

“Advanced Audiology is the largest diagnostic hearing center in the Santa Clarita Valley, and a leader in advanced technology and invisible hearing solutions,” Aronson said. “In addition to providing hearing aids, we also offer assistive listening devices to help you hear better on a phone, with the TV, in meetings and in church.”

She said her patients are treated as family, and added, “Not surprisingly, at Advanced Audiology, we pride ourselves on being excellent listeners.

Our motto is ‘Give People More Than They Expect.’

“Our group of audiologists (with over 80 years of combined experience) provides you with a unique solution to achieve the goal of improved quality of life through better hearing,” Aronson said. Dr. Ginny Veloz has been with the company for 14 years.

She has been practicing in the field for 22 years.

Dr. David Hsu has been with the practice for two and a half years and specializes in diagnostic testing. Strawberry Haselwood started off in the company as a billing manager but was interested in working with patients, so she was mentored by Aronson, and in her first two years as a hearing aid provider, has helped the company serve more people than ever before.

“In March of this year we added a new but veteran audiologist named Mary Porath,” Aronson noted. “She has been practicing for 40 years and comes to us after completing 15 years as the VP of marketing for a major manufacturer.

“Everyone on the team has the same motto as I do, which is to treat each patient as if they were a family member and to never leave the office until we have helped patients improve their social lives with better hearing and communication.”

As proof this motto is effective, Advanced Audiology won the Rising Star Award from the Valley Industry Association in 2016, Best Small Business of the Year Award for 2016 from the Santa Clarita Chamber of Commerce, Community Champion of the Year at the 2014 SCV Leadership Awards, and was recognized in The Signal’s Top 51 in 2017 for healthcare.

What is Hearing Loss?

Hearing is one of our primary senses and is the third largest medical issue in the US after cancer and heart disease, Aronson explained. “When you

have problems hearing, or as we say understanding, you disconnect from people. Then the process continues with isolation and depression because you are no longer doing the things you love to do.”

Also, in the last two years, researchers have linked hearing with the brain and it’s the brain that actually hears because that is where sound is processed, she added. They have found untreated hearing loss to be linked with early dementia and reduced cognitive function.

“When a person comes to our office, we find out what issues they are having and work toward solving those,” Aronson said. “We feel it is important for anyone 50 and older to get a baseline hearing screening. After all, you get your eyes and teeth checked. Why skip your hearing, which is the most important sense. The reason we like to provide this service is so we can educate the public about hearing and how to protect it and what signs to look for in the future. We had someone come in for their baseline, which was normal, and the next year an

airbag went off next to her ear in an accident and we were able to prove the loss to her insurance company. Twice, people came in because they felt one ear was worse, and we found acoustic tumors – so you never know. This is what makes us happy helping our community in all ways.”

Don’t be fooled thinking you are going to save some money by going to a big box store, she said.

“Hearing devices are not always equal. You are not just paying for a commodity. This is a medical device and requires knowledge and skill to get it right for a person. Plus the others have two yearold technology.”

She said that all newer devices are simple to use but act as your own Bluetooth headsets and allow you to watch TV, answer your phone and listen to music. They are designed to give you the best understanding in noise. “We always carry the newest and latest devices with personalized service. We have been in the SCV for 30 years and are referred to by most of the physicians and their families.”

Education and Community Involvement “I started as a special ed teacher and believe reading and education are key to a person’s success and self esteem,” she said. “I have teamed with Ingrid Blanco and Willy Arroyo, the best dance company, to give dance lessons at the Boys & Girls Club, and donated many books to reading programs there because I think they have a wonderful program to help children. I was the title sponsor for the Wine Affair with the Soroptomists this past April, where the money raised goes back to helping women’s causes.

“To sum up, I am most proud that this is my 31st year in the Santa Clarita Valley, and I feel my longevity here is because of the great service we provide at Advanced Audiology, and that we treat our patients like family members. Our goal this year is to give the community 2018 free hearing screenings, so help us help you and we will all reach our goals.”

Advanced Audiology is located at 23822 Valencia Blvd., #103, Valencia, CA 91355. For more information visit SCVAdvancedAudiology.com or call 661-877-4272.

SCV Community Pride â&#x2DC;&#x2026; BUSINESS

THE SIGNAL . SATURDAY, MAY 26, 2018 . D13

SCV

Community

PRIDE Business

Logix Federal Credit Union: Helping members thrive

(L-R)-LOGIX--Branch Manager/Stevenson Ranch-Jake Raymond; Branch Manager/Golden Valley-Steve Artis; Regional Vice President-James Davis; Branch Manager/ Bouquet Canyon-Jason Lee and Branch Manager/Valencia-Stacey Edwards. Tom Cruze/For The Signal

D14 . SATURDAY, MAY 26, 2018 . THE SIGNAL

Business

SCV Community Pride ★ BUSINESS

Trust ME: Mediation & Estate Organizers

Calming the Waters and Clearing the Way

By Jim Walker

Organizers will help manage the transition to new ‘normals,’” Morford amily arguments over money, said. business, assets, estate trusts, Morford has more than 20 years wills or aging parents’ needs of combined experience with conmay consistently end with heels dig- tract negotiations, being a “neutral” ging in deeper after each “conversa- for families and beneficiaries, worktion,” or worse yet, with toes point- ing through estate settlements and ing toward litigation. Mediation will providing professional organizing for guide communication and resolve the countless home spaces, personal life issues in family disputes before cost- events and estate assets. The Trust ly legal fees turn into a financial bur- ME: team serves the needs of Sanden and long-term relationships are ta Clarita, Los Angeles, Ventura and damaged.

Santa Barbara. For As a mediator the convenience and professional of serving multiple estate organizer, parties, mediations Kelly Morford works “Being a mediator and are scheduled in ofto clear the chaos estate organizer gives fice locations as created by family near the clients’ me the advantage of disputes or the disdesired locations organized affairs of knowing where the pitas possible. Estate those experiencing falls for conflict may be” organizing will typilife transitions. Life cally be done where transitions include assets are located. organizing the per“Being a medisonal and finanator and estate organizer gives me cial details after the death of a loved the advantage of knowing where the one, seniors down-sizing after living pitfalls for conflict may be,” Morford in their home for decades, separating a household after divorce or from a said. “My neutral position allows me significant other, or generally healthy to help clients resolve damaging conseniors who live alone who may need flict or resolve disputes that are startjust a little help managing finances or ed with disorganized estates. Fighting over family business or assets needs of home ownership.

“Some life transitions leave peo- may leave families with little left to ple disabled with grief and they are fight over.”

In addition to the high costs of litiunable or unwilling to manage the tasks required to organize the details gation, parties have little to no voice alone. Trust ME: Mediation & Estate or input in the outcome of the deci-

F

Kelly Morford is surrounded by banners of her company; Trust Me Mediation & Estate Organizers. Tom Cruze/For the Signal

sion – a decision is rendered upon the issue. Mediation is different in that it provides a forum to allow disputing parties to resolve the dispute themselves.

“Families today are uniquely structured with siblings, half-siblings, step-relations, blended families, those with multiple marriages or extended or multi-generational families. The more diverse, the more potential for disagreement,” Morford said. Trust ME: will help you organize your home and estate. Services also include home and estate inventory, valuations, managing real estate

through the settlement process and real estate ready to be sold.

“As specialists in life transition organizing, our goal is to help you organize your transition to ease your burden so you can focus on moving forward to your next ‘normal,’” she said. “As a mediator and a specialist in organizing transitional life events, I created Trust ME: to not only help families avoid damaging conflict related to assets, but we also help manage those assets so you don’t have to manage them alone.”

For more information visit www. trustme-pro.com or call 661-666-1664.

ESTATE ORGANIZING • MEDIATION

Transitional Life Events Organizing Professionals

We help resolve conflict related to family business, money-matters, trusts wills, assets, real estate, and aging parent needs.

• Down-Sizers • Loss of a Loved One • Seniors •Divorce (Separating Households)

Kelly Morford, Medation & Estate Organizers

661-666-1664

• Sibling Rivalry • Multiple Marriages • Inability to Communicate Effectively

Resolving Conflict ...

Preserving Relationships ...

Avoiding Litigation

TrustME-Pro.com

SCV Community Pride ★ BUSINESS

Business

THE SIGNAL . SATURDAY, MAY 26, 2018 . D15

Wicall’s Carpets and Flooring A Half-Century of Customer Satisfaction

By Jim Walker

O

perating under the credo of “Make Your House a Beautiful Home,” Wicall’s Carpets and Flooring has been serving the Santa Clarita Valley for more than 50 years. It is a family-owned business, now under the leadership of Lisa Wicall, who emphasizes, “I don’t want our customers to merely be satisfied, I want them to be happy.”

She explained that the flooring in a room has a huge impact on its comfort and the overall impression it makes. “Flooring can transform the look and feel of a home for a long time to come,” Wicall said, “so the material you choose should be tailored to how you will use the room.

Consequently, selecting the right flooring for your home can be overwhelming. But, at Wicall’s we make it easy for you.”

She said Wicall’s has the largest selection of carpet inventory in the Santa Clarita Valley, and also sells hardwood and waterproof planking that looks and feels like wood. “Ad-

ditionally, we sell area rugs and vinyl tile, which has the look of porcelain and stone tile, but with the warmth of vinyl. If you want quality materials, great prices and fast, expert installation, we can handle that. It’s our specialty.”

The staff at Wicall’s includes a third generation of the family, Lisa’s niece Justine Harrolle, and the showrooms are helmed by other experts who can recommend the perfect flooring for your needs and budget. You can also shop on the website, and if it’s not convenient for you to visit the showroom, Wicall’s will bring samples to your home to help you make a choice.

Wicall emphasized the expertise of her installers. All of them have been with the company for more than 27 years – some for more than 33 years. “My installers stay happy, which keeps the customers happy,” she said.

Wicall noted that her exclusive carpet brands come with lifetime warranties against stains, soil and wear.

“Many of our products are made in the USA and environmentally friendly.

We have national buying power with a local presence. We live here and

Wicall’s Carpet & Flooring--The Storefront celebrating 50 years in Santa Clarita Valley.

Tom Cruze/For the Signal

know our neighbors.

“Come in and see us,” she said.

“We offer the largest selection of floor covering in Santa Clarita, design professionals on the premises, complimentary in-home design consultation, free in-home measuring and estimates, and professional installation.

Wicall’s will also advise you on how to prepare your home for the installation of new flooring, and on how to care for your floor after it’s in place.

“We love what we do at Wicall’s,”

she said. “And we love our town. I especially enjoy attending Hart High School football games, where they throw one of those little footballs at me in the stands and it has the name of a local business on it. It’s a great, small town feeling.”

Wicall’s is located at 26635 Valley Center Drive, Santa Clarita, CA 91350. For more information call 661-259-6040 or visit www.wicallscarpets.com.

Wicall’s Carpet & Flooring--Lisa Wicall (R) and her niece Justine (L). Justine is holding her toddler Melody. Tom Cruze/For the Signal

Celebrating 50 Years - Thank You SCV!

Wicall’s Carpets & Flooring

Family Owned and Operated Proudly Serving the SCV

Since 1968

We have an incredible selection of carpet & vinyl flooring IN HOUSE and ready to install NOW!

Wicall’s Inc. Lic #301091

Hardwood • Vinyl • Tile Carpet • Area Rugs

CING N A N I F 0 %

(661) 259-6040 | WicallsCarpets.com 26635 Valley Center Drive (at Soledad Canyon Rd)

D16 . SATURDAY, MAY 26, 2018 . THE SIGNAL

SCV Community Pride ★ BUSINESS

Bouquet

“Financial Institutions don’t get any better than Logix.”

-Dale S.

“My whole family has been banking with Logix for years and we love it!”

-Amber P.

Stevenson Ranch “This is by far the best credit union around. I’ve tried many, and I can’t stop raving about Logix.”

-Samantha P.

“By far the best bank one could wish for.”

-Alex G.

Federally insured

by NCUA

THE SIGNAL . SATURDAY, MAY 26, 2018 . D17

SCV Community Pride ★ BUSINESS

Valencia “They have helped in every way, they truly care about you. I won’t go to any other bank! Best banking ever.”

-Kathy G.

“Quick, and easy. Very friendly.

Very clean. If you’re looking to open account, car loan, mortgage ... This is the place for you.”

-David V.

Golden Valley “I absolutely love this place!

Amazing service, rates, and people!

NMLS ID 503781

-Veronica M.

“JUST GO THERE PLEASE!” -Kevin L.

D18 . SATURDAY, MAY 26, 2018 . THE SIGNAL

Business

SCV Community Pride ★ BUSINESS

Crippen Mortuaries: Family-owned business offers personalized service

By Alicia Doyle

F

or more than nine decades, Crippen Mortuaries have always been there for families in their greatest time of need.

As an independent, family-owned mortuary, Crippen specializes in an affordable level of personalized care and attention to detail which other corporate model funeral homes simply cannot match.

“Families that choose Crippen are not just another number – but instead are treated as if they were part of the family themselves,” said Robert Hansen, Managing Funeral Director.

Crippen supports the families and their right to having a variety of economical choices in their funeral planning needs.

“We pride ourselves on our ability to offer families of all walks of life affordable funeral options, without ever sacrificing on the quality,” Hansen said. “We even assist families with finding the most affordable grave plots available by working with cem-

Bradford T. Sparks, arrangement counselor at Crippen Mortuary in his office with an urn. Tom Cruze/For the Signal

Exterior of Crippen Mortuary. Tom Cruze/For the Signal etery brokers to insure the savings is passed on directly to the families, often times saving them thousands of dollars.”

As a full-service funeral home, Crippen’s Santa Clarita Valley Burial & Cremation Service offers traditional funeral and memorial services, graveside ceremonies, military services, burial or entombment in any cemetery, pre-arrangements with burial and cremation insurance, a reception facility, in-home arrangements, and assistance with locating discount burial plots with cemetery brokers.

The most popular offering at Crippen Mortuaries is the $1,595 Direct Cremation Package.

“Local families have regularly been able to save upwards of $1,000 by choosing Crippen over our corporate competitors,” Hansen said. “We also

offer a Traditional Church Funeral & Burial Package starting at $4,900 with an upgraded 18g steel casket included, which is a great value.”

From Crippen’s very first Yelp review back in 2013, Ms. Lottie W. summed it up best when she wrote about her positive experience: “I cannot say how wonderful these people are,” Ms. Lottie noted. “Every single person at Crippen takes a personal interest and handles their jobs as if it was their own family member.

They just handled my father’s funeral and from the pre-planning to the funeral, they could not have been better. It is not a plastic, soulless business, but a warm and caring family who handles their duties as professionals.”

At Crippen Mortuaries information is always free and is readily given out

by our compassionate staff over the phone, Hansen added.

“There are no high pressure sales tactics at Crippen, like some mortuaries that insist on the family coming in immediately to their offices to sit with a counselor before providing even basic pricing, or answering any questions they might have about the process,” Hansen said. “Families have repeatedly expressed to us the no pressure style at Crippen is one of the many things that sets us apart from the rest.”

Crippen’s Santa Clarita Valley Burial & Cremation Service is located at 16653 Sierra Highway in Canyon Country. For more information, call 661-250-1435; or visit www.CrippenMortuary.com.

SCV Community Pride ★ BUSINESS

Business

THE SIGNAL . SATURDAY, MAY 26, 2018 . D19

Thrivent Financial

Helps members give back to community

By Alicia Doyle

A

s a member-owned, not-forprofit financial services company, Thrivent Financial is tax exempt, so the money the company would have to pay in taxes is given to charities, schools and churches to support the community.

“Last year, Thrivent gave away about $280 million in total outreach,” said Bryan Steiner, a Financial Representative at Thrivent Financial.

Thrivent has been around for over 100 years, and is #316 on the Fortune 500. In other honors, Thrivent has also been voted one of the World’s Most Ethical Companies by Ethisphere Institute, and has the highest financial strength ratings for financial service companies with $9.7 billion in total surplus.

Thrivent Financial offers a full range of financial products and services including Life, Disability, and Long Term Care Insurance; Retirement Planning, Education Funding Solutions, Charitable Giving Solutions, Business Owner Solutions, and Investment Management.

“But what Thrivent offers that other companies don’t is that since Thrivent is member-owned and notfor-profit, we have great products that benefit our members and programs that allow members to be philanthropic and give back to their local community,” Steiner said. “So not only do I help clients be wise with their money and reach their financial goals, but also help them live generously as well.”

Thrivent is a unique kind of financial company called a fraternal benefit organization. By definition, a fraternal benefit organization is a not-for-profit organization that provides insurance and other financial services to its members and must carry out social, intellectual, educational, charitable, benevolent, moral, fraternal, patriotic or religious purposes for the benefit of its members and the public.

“So we don’t simply provide financial guidance, and we don’t simply do charitable work either,” Steiner said.

“We do both as we help clients on their financial journeys.”

What Steiner’s clients like most is having someone who really cares about helping them reach their financial goals that they can meet with in person, and not have to talk to a stranger over the phone who doesn’t really know them or their situation.

“I treat my clients like family,” Steiner emphasized. “I think my clients like the personal relationship knowing they have someone in their corner to help guide them. Also that Thrivent does so much to give back and support the community.”

Talking about money and finances can be a stressful subject for some people, he added.

“My goal is to make it as stress free as possible and help my clients feel confident about reaching their financial goals,” Steiner said. “I see what their goals and concerns are and see where they are at currently and come up with a strategy to reach those goals. It is my job to educate

Bryan Steiner, Financial Associate at Thrivent Financial. Tom Cruze/For the Signal my clients about their options so they

Thrivent Financial is located at

can make a decision that works best

26639 Valley Center Dr., Suite 104,

for their situation. It doesn’t cost any-

in Santa Clarita. For more infor-

thing for a consultation to review their

mation, call 661-291-1085; or vis-

financial situation and see where I

it https://connect.thrivent.com/bry-

can help.”

an-steiner.

D20 . SATURDAY, MAY 26, 2018 . THE SIGNAL

Business

SCV Community Pride ★ BUSINESS

Signal Readers Rate Logix No. 1 Credit Union 12 Years in a Row

Rendering of Logix headquarters moving to Santa Clarita in 2019. Courtesy Rendering.

By Alicia Doyle

C

hartered in 1937, Logix Federal Credit Union is rated “superior” for financial strength, currently has more than $5 billion in assets, and offers preferred rates on savings and loan accounts.

Logix also offers mobile and online banking, surcharge-free access to 30,000 ATMs, and a nationwide network of branches.

“So, even when you’re outside your neighborhood, you can still quickly access your funds,” said James Davis, Regional Vice President.

This year, the credit union celebrates 81 years in business, and has never had a negative year – with 96% of 188,000 members continuing to refer to family and friends.

“With Logix, you get more than a financial institution – you get peace of mind,” Davis said. “The organi-

“With Logix, you get more than a financial institution – you get peace of mind,”

zation has maintained a perfect record of positive earnings since 1937, and holds a 5-star rating for financial strength from Bauer Financial.”

Many of the members have their mortgage and auto loans with Logix, as well as checking and savings accounts.

“Relationship Rewards are also a big draw – there are tiered levels,” Davis said. “The more a member has invested in the credit union, the more benefits he/she receives, like rebates for ATM surcharges at non-COOP ATMs, free checking and more.”

Logix is also “banking with a twist,” because customers become members and part-owners when they open an account.

“Profits are returned to them in the form of better rates, lower fees, improved services, and increased reserves to maintain our unmatched financial strength,” Davis said. “If the credit union is extra profitable, it’s returned to account holders via special loyalty dividends, and other benefits.

That’s different from many financial institutions.”

Additionally, Logix is a not-for-profit, “and we work similar to a cooperative where all of our members are

Rendering of outside patio of Logix headquarters moving to Santa Clarita in 2019. Courtesy Rendering. owners and our goal is to provide superior value in banking and financial services than you might find at traditional banks,” said Jake Raymond, Branch Manager at the Stevenson Ranch branch.

At Raymond’s location, happy customers have stated, “It’s a great credit union with terrific employees that provide excellent service.” Logix is especially proud of its Contact Center, where more than 80% of calls are answered by a live person. In other perks, all branches welcome customers with a continuously staffed concierge desk and free gourmet coffee.

“At Logix, we treat everyone like family and we strive to help our members thrive,” Raymond said. “It’s our mission.”

This aspect – which adds to the overall outstanding customer service – is what makes Logix stand apart.

“Many companies say that this is their focus,” said Branch Manager Steve Artis in the Golden Valley branch. “But, where we excel is on the execution. The entire Logix team,

including senior management, is dedicated to the best possible customer service.

Every employee takes pride and ownership in the member’s experience, said Stacey Edwards, Branch Manager in Valencia Promenade branch.

“We each work to wow our members with every interaction and really believe we are here to help them thrive – of course, we’re members, too,” Edwards said. “We are more than a bank; we are a community and family. We genuinely care about our members and want to get to know them.”

Members particularly enjoy the customer service and “the family atmosphere we create,” said Jason Lee, Branch Manager in the Valencia Bouquet Canyon branch.

“We offer gourmet coffee to our members and is brewed fresh every few hours so members can enjoy a fresh cup any time of day they come in,” Lee said. “We also like to have a lot of fun, and our members expe-

Rendering of inside Logix headquarters moving to Santa Clarita in 2019. Courtesy Rendering.

rience that when they come and are greeted by happy smiling employees.”

The credit union’s headquarters will be moving to Santa Clarita in 2019.

“I think it was an easy decision to move our headquarters to Santa Clarita when given the choice,” Lee said.

“Our members play a huge part to our success here, and these are the reasons why we have been chosen as the Signal’s Best Credit Union for 12 years running. We love to support the community by staying engaged in different events and support several local charity groups.”

The credit union has also been recognized as one of the Best Places to Work in Los Angeles by the Los Angeles Business Journal and Daily News, Davis added.

“The staff knows that fostering a happy and motivated workforce translates into a positive experience for employees,” Davis said.

For more information, visit www. lfcu.com.

THE SIGNAL . SATURDAY, MAY 26, 2018 . F1

SCV Community Pride â&#x2DC;&#x2026; BANKING & FINANCE

SCV

Community

PRIDE Banking & Finance

American Family Funding Providing Solutions

Nikolas Samuels/for The Signal

F2 . SATURDAY, MAY 26, 2018 . THE SIGNAL

Fred Arnold’s belief is that if you help enough people get what they want out of life, then you will always achieve your goals and dreams. He was born and raised in the Santa Clarita Valley. He began his career in 1991 after graduating from California State University Northridge. Fred’s business is 100% referral based. He has helped his clients obtain over a billion dollars in mortgage loans over the past two decades.

Fred often speaks to business and consumer groups regarding the economy, the state of the housing market and how to get the best investment when buying real estate. Fred hosts a TV show, “Out of the Rough”, on SCVTV and hosts the radio show, “The SCV Business Chamber Spotlight”, on AM 1220 KHTS. Fred currently serves on the OLPH school board as president, COC Foundation Board, SCVTV Advisory Board, Child and Family Board, and Santa Clarity Valley Disaster Coalition Board. He most recently served as the Chairman for the SCV Chamber of Commerce (2013). Fred is licensed by the California Department of Real Estate (01173600) and the NMLS (214841).

Fred lives in the Santa Clarita Valley with his four children, Alex, Katie, Jack and Amy.

“I like to see a man proud of the place in which he lives. I like to see a man live so that his place will be proud of him.” This quote by Abraham Lincoln perfectly describes long time loan officer Jake Young.

Jake is a lifelong resident of Santa Clarita. He and his wife Vanessa, and their two children are proud to call this valley home. Jake is heavily involved in the local community volunteering as a youth sports coach, working with the Boy Scouts of America and serving on the Valley Industry Association (VIA) Education Foundation board.

With over 12 years’ experience as a licensed mortgage professional, Jake takes pride in educating and helping his clients achieve their financial goals and the dream of homeownership. He works hard to be an advocate for his clients and does so with integrity, diligence and his expert knowledge of the lending industry and different loan programs.

Tom has worked at American Family Funding since 2003 and is a licensed Real Estate Broker by the State of California, a State Certified Notary Public.

He has been married 30 years to his wife Terrie, with two wonderful daughters, Shannon and Breanna, and has lived in Moorpark, California since 1986. Tom has been very involved in the Moorpark community currently serving his sixth term as a Commissioner of Parks & Recreation, Knights of Columbus, Relay for Life, and many different positions in youth sports including AYSO and Moorpark Girls Softball. In addition, Tom was recently appointed to UCLA Neurosurgery Patient and Family Advisory Council, and has orchestrated numerous blood drives for UCLA Blood center and United Blood Services.

SCV Community Pride ★ BANKING & FINANCE

Fred Arnold

NMLS# 1850/214841 Certified Mortgage Consultant (661) 505-4300 • fred.arnold@affloans.com BRE License# 01215943/01173600

Jake Young

NMLS # 1850/226964 Mortgage Advisor (661) 505-4303 • jake@affloans.com BRE License# 01215943/01727469

Tom Pflaumer

NMLS # 1850/214857 Mortgage Advisor (661) 505-4319 • tom@affloans.com BRE License # 01215943/01398908

David has been in the financial industry for 25 years, working at some of the largest investment firms in the country, such as UBS and Raymond James. David puts such a high value on integrity and his clients take notice as they have repeatedly been happy with his business style and skill. David now brings this same integrity and acumen to the mortgage lending industry. He is confident that his considerable business experience and straightforward approach will continue to produce happy customers on either side of the lending transaction.

He has been married to his wife Lori, for 23 years and they have two children together. Lexy is a full time student at Moorpark Community College while their son Logan is a student athlete at California State University Northridge. When David isn’t working on deals or helping Lori at their frozen yogurt shop in Northridge, he spends his time coaching the West Ranch High School pole vault team.

Jilyn helps people find great mortgage financing for their situation and needs. She works with all types of buyers, including first time home buyers, active military, veterans, as well as seasoned buyers, sellers and investors. As a long time Real Estate Agent who switched to mortgage lending, Jilyn understands the needs of Real Estate Agents and works with Real Estate Professionals to help them grow their business, and assist their clients when selling or purchasing a new home or investment property. Jilyn has appeared on radio and TV shows speaking on home financing. She also conducts First Time Home Buyer Seminars and speaks to Realtor groups on mortgage financing.

After graduating from Michigan State University, Vytas began his career as a mortgage loan servicer for a national mortgage lender located in the Metropolitan Detroit area. After five years in loan servicing, Vytas transitioned to mortgage lending as a loan officer. In 1989 Vytas moved to the Southern California area and continued his career as a licensed mortgage professional. He has entered his third decade of matching homebuyers and homeowners with the home loan that best meets their financial needs. From C.E.O.s to assembly line workers, from condominiums to castles, Vytas’ knowledge of mortgage products, underwriting guidelines and his appreciation for the value and satisfaction that homeownership brings to a family, drives his desire to match the best mortgage program for each buyer and homeowner.

Licensed by the Department of Business Oversight under the California Residential Mortgage Lending Act

David Cantrell

NMLS # 1850/1427091 Mortgage Advisor (661) 505-4368 • david@affloans.com

Jilyn Crawford NMLS # 1850/272879 Mortgage Advisor (760) 220-4543 jilyn@affloans.com

Vytas Keblys

NLMS # 1850/224292 Mortgage Advisor (661) 505-4350 • vytas@affloans.com BRE License# 01215943/01487603

Patti’s expertise in mortgage finance comes from over 30 years working with banks and mortgage banking firms, large and small. Patti is also committed to educating young adults about financial responsibility. Her newly released book, “Money Rules 101 – Master Your Money Before it Masters You” inspires and empowers young adults and parents with the money skills necessary to lead a prosperous and peaceful life. Patti’s core belief is to always give back and she does so by being extremely active in the community. She considers the beach to be her happy place, chocolate as her favorite food group, and her family and friends to be her greatest blessing.

Lana began working in the mortgage business in the early 1990s and her last position was as a wholesale coordinator and quality control (auditing brokered in loans). She spent the next 5 years as a traveling notary for loan signings and then left her career to raise 3 children for 15 years. She returned to the mortgage industry in February 2017, working for a large bank. When her program was eliminated this year she moved to American Family Funding. Lana loves this industry and couldn’t be happier to be with the American Family Funding team. Her passion is helping people with the American Dream and the biggest purchase of their life. Lana is the mother of a 24 year old boy and 21 year old identical twin girls. She does a lot of volunteer work for the homeless as the lead volunteer for the clothing ministry through Real Life Church, which she has led for over two years. Lana has always had a heart to serve people in need and also volunteers for the special needs community where she helps with a yearly prom called “A Night to Remember.”

Pat

NML Mortg (661) BRE L

La

NLM Mortg (661)

28368 CONSTELLATION ROAD, STE 398, SAN

THE SIGNAL . SATURDAY, MAY 26, 2018 . F3

SCV Community Pride ★ BANKING & FINANCE

WHO WE ARE • We Provide Solutions to Those with Financial Challenges • We are a Resource to You • We Offer Advice on Purchase and Refinance Mortgages • We Are Community Leaders • We Help to Strategize Your Long and Short Term Real Estate Goals

Fred began his career with American Pacific Mortgage (APM) in 2008 where he served as a Branch Manager for American Family Funding, an APM Enterprise branch. He led not only the day-to-day operations of the branch, but also the Credit Union and Reverse Mortgage Divisions.

In Fred’s current position as Vice President of Enterprise Production, Fred oversees and drives production strategy for all of the Enterprise Branches for American Pacific Mortgage, including managing origination, processing, member care, credit union and financial portfolio reviews.

With over 30 years of experience in operations and customer service, he trains loan officers and credit unions in customer service and sales skills Fred is very involved in the community, having served on the Board of Directors for the MS Golf Classic for the National MS Society and annually volunteers for the Avon Walk for Breast Cancer. He has also served on the governing board of VIA (Valley Industry Association), which represents business interests throughout the Santa Clarita Valley, providing members the opportunity to network and collaborate on a broad range of business issues.

atti Handy

LS # 1850/248480 gage Advisor ) 505-4310 • patti@affloans.com License # 01215943/00872257

ana Rossi

MS # 1850/1600719 gage Advisor ) 505-4314 • lana@affloans.com

Fred Kreger

NMLS# 1850/214640 Certified Mortgage Consultant (661) 505-4311 • fred.kreger@affloans.com BRE License# 01215943/01371184

With over 40 years’ experience in the lending industry, Rhona’s goal is to make the loan process as simple as possible. Rhona is always available to answer any question but more importantly, she walks her clients through the home loan process to ensure that they are well informed and works hard to find the right loan to meet each client’s individual financial needs. Rhona is very active in the community and with non-profits. She has been a resident of Santa Clarita for the past 34 years.

Vanessa has 18 years of experience in mortgage lending. She studied finance and accounting at CSUN before settling down in Santa Clarita. She believes her success in mortgage financing comes from her strong desire to help and empower others. This is what drew her to the team at American Family Funding, where integrity and honesty counts. When not working with clients to help them achieve their homeownership dreams or reaching their investment goals, she fills her time with being a single mother to the coolest 7 year old in town. Her son’s name is Elijah, aka “Ej” and they share a passion for rescuing animals. They currently have two pups named Bermuda and Bolt.

Vanessa also balances her love of mortgage financing with being actively involved in youth sports, Cub Scouts, and charities for foster children.

Fernando has 22 years of lending experience. He works with credit unions and referral partners lending in Colorado as well as here in Santa Clarita. Fernando’s philosophy is simple: treat the client with fairness and integrity, while working hard to give the client the best mortgage experience every time. He always educates his clients throughout the entire mortgage process, while making sure that he puts his clients in the proper mortgage loan that will best suit them. He is fluent in Spanish and has specialized in serving the Hispanic Community over the course of his lending career. On top of balancing his career, Fernando is proud of his two boys who are attending college in Colorado; one graduating this year and one a sophomore.

Rhona Jukes

NMLS # 1850/299978 Mortgage Advisor (661) 505-4335 • Rhona@affloans.com BRE License #01215943/01436506

Vanessa Montoya NLMS # 1850/1540226 Mortgage Advisor (661) 505-4320 • vanessa@affloans.com

Steve has a broad background.

For many years he worked in TV broadcasting and then transitioned into non-profit corporate fundraising. He met Fred Arnold at a Santa Clarita leadership lunch several years ago. Fred was looking for a reverse mortgage specialist and thought Steve would be a great fit. Coming from the non-profit world, one of Steve’s main focuses has always been on helping others and the idea of assisting those heading towards retirement was appealing to him. He joined American Family Funding in 2012 as Reverse Mortgage Specialist.

Steve is a licensed mortgage professional committed to helping fellow Baby Boomers and retirees secure their golden years. He understands that retirement can be a financial challenge and he is happy to show older homeowners how to strategically use the equity in their homes to better build a solid retirement plan.

Anna comes from a real estate investment and compliance background. Anna really cares about helping her clients become homeowners and finding a loan program that fits their life well. She works with first-time homebuyers, experienced buyers and real estate investors. When not working on finding great lending solutions, Anna is a mother to Katherine and Max. She also volunteers in the community and has a soft spot for children’s charities.

NTA CLARITA, CA 91355 | 661-284-1150

Fernando Gauna NMLS # 1850/243454 Mortgage Advisor (661) 505-4306 fernando@affloans.com

Steve Schaefer NMLS # 1850/950999 Reverse Mortgage Advisor (661) 505-4308 steve@affloans.com

Anna Shaterkin NLMS # 1850/1547333 Mortgage Advisor (661) 505-4317 • anna@affloans.com

EQUAL HOUSING

OPPORTUNITY

NMLS #1850 BRE #01215943

F4 . SATURDAY, MAY 26, 2018 . THE SIGNAL

SCV Community Pride ★ BANKING & FINANCE

Banking & Finance

American Family Funding offers mortgage lending expertise

By Alicia Doyle

E

stablished in 1993, American Family Funding has built a strong reputation as an outstanding mortgage firm serving the lending needs of individual homebuyers, real estate professionals and builders all throughout California.

“While we are mortgage professionals we also pride ourselves on helping our clients really understand and feel comfortable with the process,” said Fred Arnold, branch manager. “We truly treat everyone who comes through our door like family.”

Located in Santa Clarita, American Family Funding is a full-service firm with an experienced staff offering expertise in every area of mortgage lending, from purchasing to refinancing to construction lending.

These mortgage professionals have access to a full range of resources, and all of their lending specialists are dedicated to finding the right loan with the best rates, terms and costs to meet their clients’ unique needs.

That’s just the beginning of their Photos by Nikolas Samuels/The Signal service. Throughout the lending (Above) Branch manager Fred Arnold talks to certified mortgage consultant David Cantrell, second to right, senior mortgage advisor process, they provide regular loan Jake Young and senior mortgage advisor Patti Handy, left, during a client experience meeting at the American Family Funding offices updates and progress reports so in Valencia on April 3, 2018. (Below) Regional production advocate JoAnn Anderson talks to Fred Arnold and David Cantrell during clients always know the status of a client experience meeting. All of the lending specialists are dedicated to finding the right loan to meet their clients’ unique needs. their loan.

“The people who work for Amer- ucating the community about what ican Family funding take owner- their benefits are.”

American Family Funding also ship of the financial challenges and opportunities that our clients gives options to younger homeownmay face, and really have a huge ers, or those who don’t have the exvested interest in their financial perience of owning a home.

“We educate them about their ophealth,” Arnold said. “It becomes tions – is it feasible? Is it a good much more than just a transaction. decision?

Does it fit into their lifeWe become a solution for some of style,” Arnold said. “With past genthe challenges they face every day in building wealth, buying real es- erations, it was buy a home, betate, and navigating tough econom- cause that’s what you did. But now the questions are different. Does it ic challenges.”

The “culture of ownership” of fit into where they want to be in life? their clients’ health is something Does it fit into their mission in life?

We understand that today’s homeAmerican Family Funding takes owners are different from the past.” very seriously.

American “Through Family Fundthat, we’re able ing also ofto help veterfers a “signifiwho are caring for their parents verse mortgage we were able to ans take advancant discount” on the choices they have,” Arnold eliminate monthly mortgage paytage of someto first resaid. “Sometimes the choices ar- ments. We were also able to set up thing they’ve sponders, en’t reverse mortgages, sometimes a life expectancy set aside to enearned,” Arteachers, fire there’s another solution. It’s about sure that all future property taxes nold said. “It’s fighters and collaborating with the senior, col- and homeowners’ insurance premicalled an encorrection ofums will be paid.” titlement, but ficers through laborating with their family, and colWhether it’s a first-time home laborating with their decision-makproudly, it’s the STaR Probuyer, or someone who’s on their ers. We meet with the nurses who more than engram. titlement – it’s “First re- come to their homes. We meet with fourth refinance, “we’re going to theirs.

They sponders pro- their financial advisor and all the take the time to make sure it’s a earned it and Fred Arnold, tect our fam- people in their inner circle so they sound, financial decision that will it’s a matter of branch manager ilies and can make the decision that’s best put our client in a better situation, educating veterteachers help for them to live the best lifestyle and increase the value of not only their home, but their lives,” Cantrell ans about their educate our they want to live.”

Just earlier this year, American said. “It’s important to us that we opportunities of future,” Arnold homeownership. It’s about bringing said. “It’s important that we rec- Family Funding helped a client refi- educate people and we help them awareness so the veterans can own ognize them because they make a nance into a reverse mortgage and get into a better situation.”

American Family Funding is also a piece of the American dream.” avoid a possible foreclosure. huge impact on society.” a strong supporter of giving back to “Many veterans don’t even know “Medical bills and loss of income American Family Funding also ofabout their benefits,” added Dave fers a reverse mortgage division. had created the problem,” Arnold the community, including donating Cantrell, operations manager.

“It’s about educating not only explained. “By strategically using to- and sponsoring local high school “We’re very passionate about ed- the senior community, but those the equity in the home with a re- sports teams. They also organize fundraisers for the Valley Industry Association Education Foundation and the Child and Family Center.

“We provide piece of mind for our customers throughout the entire loan process,” Cantrell added.

“We stay in touch with them; we call them down the road and we talk to them every year to see if they have questions,” Cantrell said. “We have customer appreciation parties where we invite them back. It’s not like we do a mortgage and we don’t talk to you for another 30 years. We stay connected to our clients throughout their lives – they become part of our family.”

“The people who work for American Family Funding take ownership of the financial challenges and opportunities that our clients may face.”

Photos by Nikolas Samuels/The Signal

(Left) Branch manager Fred Arnold, right, talks to certified mortgage consultant David Cantrell at the American Family Funding offices in Valencia on April 3.

SCV Community Pride â&#x2DC;&#x2026; EDUCATION

THE SIGNAL . SATURDAY, MAY 26, 2018 . E1

SCV

Community

PRIDE Education

William S. Hart Union High School District

E2 . SATURDAY, MAY 26, 2018 . THE SIGNAL

Education

SCV Community Pride ★ EDUCATION

EDUCATION IS TRANSITIONING AS TECHNOLOGY DRIVES SOCIETY

Rancho Pico Junior High School-8th grade Science Class: (L-R) Roxanne Tunnicliffe, Neo Sola and Nina Sawaya work on a Flame Lab Test that shows what metals make different flame colors. Tom Cruze/For the Signal

By Dave Caldwell

R

emember what it was like in 1993? Google didn’t exist; smart phones were still 14 years from being introduced; Facebook, Twitter and all social media had not yet been considered. The internet was just becoming part of the social conscience and computers in general were capturing our attention.

Hindsight now shows us that 25 years ago the manufacturing age was coming to a close and the information age was dawning. With so much change happening so rapidly, can we even say for certain what the jobs of tomorrow are going to be? And what role should educators take to prepare students for those jobs that don’t yet exist?

Google CEO Sundar Pichai wrote earlier this year: “It’s clear that people need options to thrive in the digital world. The next generation of workers will depend on how we evolve education and tech in the coming years.”

The William S. Hart Union High School District has challenged itself with that very concept for the last decade.

“We are tasked with preparing students for a future that we don’t entirely comprehend yet,” said Mike Kuhlman, assistant superintendent of Educational Services for the Hart School District. “Add to that challenge the pace of change is accelerating exponentially. Our fundamen-

tal purpose as a District, therefore, needs to shift away from simply ensuring that students acquire prescribed bits of knowledge or specific skills tied to a defined line of work.

We need to equip students with the habits of mind that will enable them to succeed in the new world that they will be inheriting.”

Studies of what employers are looking for in employees have dramatically changed over the last few decades. In the 1980s, the emphasis was more on the skill of doing a job. Can you run a particular machine? Can you type? Are you a salesman? In other words, employers were looking for a particular skill set and content knowledge.

But since content is so readily available today on the internet, employers now emphasize the need for employees to use creativity and problem solving skills to evaluate content and generate new ideas. “Soft skills,” such as communication, critical thinking and teamwork, become more important than ever before.

“From a fundamental perspective, a student needs breadth -- a broad understanding of several subjects,” says Dr. Mariane Doyle, director of Career Technical Education with the Hart School District. “I used to say, ‘I am an accountant.’ But many aspects of being an accountant today are being re-purposed by technology.

For example, you can get your taxes done by Turbo Tax. So you need to

have a better understanding of the human impact. You need to be more of a critical thinker.”

To prepare these 21st century employees, education has had to shift as well. The emphasis is now on understanding the “why” and not just the who, what, when and where. Students are being tasked with understanding concepts and not just regurgitating memorized answers. Lesson plans have changed so students understand the impact of history, arts and science-- and not just the facts.

Students today are called on to demonstrate their understanding by thinking about their learning through projects and demonstrations.

“Memorization isn’t sufficient anymore,” Dr. Doyle said. “Employers value the ability to think, create, and communicate ideas. Students need to be able to understand why things are the way they are.”

For example, consider the future plumber. It won’t be enough to know how to replace a broken pipe. The future plumber might not have an inventory of replacement parts but rather a 3D printer in his/her work truck that will fabricate the part to the exact specifications needed. Therefore, that plumber will need to understand design, engineering and computer programming. Likewise, future carpenters will need to know about materials other than wood and how those materials interact with heat, cold and even other fabricated elements.

The way we teach science today has also changed in revolutionary ways to meet the demands of tomorrow. Dubbed the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS), the new science progression calls for all students to take biology, chemistry and physics. In the past, only university bound students were given the opportunity to experience the full complement of science courses.

According to Hart District Superintendent Vicki Engbrecht, “Under NGSS, the science classroom is an exciting and experiential setting where students are encouraged to observe, hypothesize, experiment, analyze and form conclusions.”

“We are moving away from teachers dispensing all knowledge about a subject to a place where teachers facilitate inquiry-based learning with lots of critical thinking,” said Julie Huffman, curriculum specialist for science in the Hart School District. “Our curriculum is filled with STEM and students are encouraged to think like scientists and engineers.

Students need to understand the processes of science and engineering so they can work and communicate collaboratively.”

The Hart School District is committed not only to providing a world class education, but to empowering life-long learners who will be prepared for a future where boundaries are limitless.

HART DISTRICT SCHOOLS RANKED TOP 10% NATIONALLY

All six comprehensive high schools in the William S. Hart Union High School District plus Academy of the Canyons were honored with distinctions from the 2018 U.S. News & World Report Best High Schools Rankings.

Canyon Silver Medal Golden Valley Silver Medal Hart Silver Medal Saugus Silver Medal

Valencia Silver Medal West Ranch Silver Medal Academy of the Canyons Bronze Medal

More than 20,000 public high schools in all 50 states and the District of Columbia were compared using various metrics including how the schools performed on state assessment tests and how well they prepare students for college. Thus, Hart District schools are ranked in the top 10 percent of public schools nationwide.

SCV Community Pride ★ EDUCATION

THE SIGNAL . SATURDAY, MAY 26, 2018 . E3

17 ANNUAL “BEST OF” TH

Santa Clarita Valley

THE VOTES ARE IN! Winners will be announced in our annual “Best of” magazine on July 28.

E4 . SATURDAY, MAY 26, 2018 . THE SIGNAL

SCV Community Pride ★ EDUCATION

William S. Hart Union

The Hart School District has successfully prepared out-of-state universities, University of California, C such as College of the Canyons, or othe

Award Winning Schools

A well-rounded acade opportunity fo

Performing Arts

Highly Qualified Teachers Student Leadership Opportunities

Creating Pathway

See how your child’s goals and needs can be exceeded Serving 23,000 students in grades 7 – 12 on 16 beautiful campuses throughout the SCV.

THE SIGNAL . SATURDAY, MAY 26, 2018 . E5

SCV Community Pride â&#x2DC;&#x2026; EDUCATION

High School District

d students for a bright future attending top-ranked Cal State University, two-year community colleges er post-secondary education programs.

emic and extracurricular or your student.

Career Technical Education

Career and College Readiness

www.PathwayToMyFuture.org Pathway To My Future @Pathway2Future

Athletics

Academics

ys to the Future!

d at one of our award-winning, high performing schools.

Call today for information and a tour.

661.259.0033 www.hartdistrict.org www.PathwayToMyFuture.org

E6 . SATURDAY, MAY 26, 2018 . THE SIGNAL

Education

SCV Community Pride ★ EDUCATION

SANTA CLARITA CHRISTIAN SCHOOL

“Teaching Minds, Training Hearts for God”

By Jim Walker

F

ounded in September 1982, Santa Clartia Christian School opened as a traditional private school serving grades K-12, with 110 students and 12 faculty members.

Today, SCCS has grown to an enrollment of over 425 students with over 60 faculty members.

“Santa Clarita Christian School partners with families of like faith to challenge students’ minds and train their hearts for God through a distinctively biblical education,” said Lonna Gibson, SCCS marketing director.

“We seek to not only educate our students in challenging and rigorous academics, but also to train their hearts to apply that knowledge to impact our community and world for Christ.”

Over the past 35 years, SCCS has graduated approximately 900 students. Graduates have attended

prestigious colleges and universities such as the Merchant Marine Academy, Pepperdine, UCLA, USC, Cornell and Berkeley, to name a few. In 2017, 93 percent of SCCS graduating seniors received an academic/ athletic honor, while being accepted into 77 different colleges and universities nationwide; receiving over $1.5 million in scholarships.

SCCS boasts a low student-to-teacher ratio, competitive sports for grades K-12, advanced placement and dual enrollment classes and full and half day kindergarten programs

What makes SCCS unique?

Within the Christ-centered culture and vibrant school community, students are encouraged to be leaders and serve others. “As we are a K-12 school, younger students get a vision for their future and older students have opportunities to be examples and mentors,” shared Gibson.

“Our passionate, well-trained teachers and dedicated staff pour themselves into the teaching of minds and training of hearts, which we promote through spiritual development, academic excellence, creative expression and athletic distinction.”

Servant Leadership Campus Pastor Wiley Kennedy at Santa Clarita Christian School.

Nikolas Samuels/The Signal

“At SCCS, developing servant hearts, building leadership qualities and shaping faithful disciples for Christ are core values of our academic program,” Gibson said. “Servant

Eighth grade students take part in Bible class at Santa Clarita Christian School.

Nikolas Samuels/The Signal

Leadership is taught in all grade levels at SCCS, whether through older students coaching Pee Wee sports or SCCS’s discipleship or reading buddy programs.”

Moreover, every spring, SCCS junior and senior high students volunteer during a unique, two-day event called iServe. “iServe begins with the help of SCCS teachers who select locations and activities that are closest to their hearts. With eager hearts, SCCS mounts an army of student volunteers, who go out into the community and serve others,” she said.

Recently, students have served in various capacities from preparing food for homeless individuals, to

maintaining hiking trails, encouraging senior citizens at assisted living facilities, writing notes to SCCS alumni in the military and cleaning recently fire-damaged buildings at Miracle Mountain.

At SCCS, students receive the academic and spiritual foundation they need to thrive and are well prepared to handle the rigors of higher education, as well as life.

Santa Clarita Christian School is located at 27249 Luther Drive, Santa Clarita, CA 91351 (Canyon Country).

Enrollment is open for the 2018-19 school year. To schedule your personal campus tour or for more information visit www.sccs.cc or call 661-252-7371.

SCV Community Pride ★ EDUCATION

Education

THE SIGNAL . SATURDAY, MAY 26, 2018 . E7

Charter College Canyon Country Prepares Students for Success

By Cully Schneider

W

ith locations in Washington, New Mexico, Alaska, Montana and California - not to mention a variety of courses offered online for students not located near a campus, Charter College strives to make receiving a career education convenient and flexible.

“Charter College here in Canyon Country is a place where individuals – and it can be somebody who is younger, meaning just out of high school, or even somebody who is a little bit on the more mature side who is maybe looking to make a change in their career - come in and learn new skills professionally in a very hands on and classroom environment, to be able to go out…and work in the medical field,” says president of the Canyon Country campus, Juan Tabanera.

The Canyon Country location offers certificates in dental assisting and

Charter College Campus President Juan Tabanera. Tom Cruze/For the Signal

medical assisting. At the conclusion of a ten month long program of their choosing, students earn a certificate which allows them to take board exams. Additionally, students are also given the opportunity to participate in an externship with local dental and medical offices. “So the students can go in and actually work with employers for about five weeks at the end of the program and at the end of that [externship] they can actually get hired,” explains Tabanera.

Students also have access to a career services representative who assists with job searches and placement. Many students find jobs in Santa Clarita. “We are really fortunate at this point in time to have employers locally who are looking for our students,” says Tabanera.

Charter College makes sure that its students are prepared for the demands of a career in dental or medical assisting once they complete their certification. “We pay a lot of attention to what skill sets need to be learned,” continues Tabanera. “We have professional advisory committee meetings once or twice a year, where we invite the employers to come to our campus and they have a round table discussion and discuss what we are doing in our program and how they feel we can improve it.”

To add to the quality of classroom

Rewarding healthcare careers start here.

Now enrolling: Medical Assistant Dental Assisting Launch a medical or dental career in just 10 months. We offer the hands-on training, supportive learning environment, and job search help that lead to success.

chartercollege.edu | 661.252.1864 19034 Soledad Canyon Road • Canyon Country

Important information about the educational debt, earnings, and completion rates of students who attended this program is available at http://ow.ly/oSVO30dC8Dn

Dwayne Pine, Medical Assistant Instructor (C) oversees a vacination procedure by students Crystal Talley (L) and Demi Tiffany. Tom Cruze/For The Signal

learning, all of Charter College’s instructors are professionals who have worked in the field and gained first hand experiences to pass on to a new group of emerging dental and medical assistants.

The school’s Blended Learning curriculum combines online learning and classroom instruction, allowing students to enjoy the convenience of online lessons from the comfort of their own homes in addition to the benefit of hands-on classroom instruction.

For those students who have com-

pleted the certificate program there is an option to further their education with an Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree through Charter College’s various online programs. “We have online programs specifically catering to those that are called roll up students, so they roll into our Associates and our Bachelors,” explains Tabanera. It is important to note that Charter College is accredited by the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools, which is recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.

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Education

SCV Community Pride ★ EDUCATION

Bishop Alemany High School Prepares Students for Success

By Cully Schneider

O

perated and owned by the Archdiocese of Los Angeles, Bishop Alemany High School enriches its students through service to the community and an academically challenging curriculum. “We stand out by our rate of getting students into two and four year colleges,” says Miguel Fletcher, Director of Marketing, Outreach & Enrollment Management. The high school has a ninety-nine percent rate of matriculation.

Part of that ninety-nine percent includes two students accepted into Massachusetts Institute of Technology this fall. Marc Felix and Niko Ramirez are both members of the school’s Academic Decathlon team, which has won seventeen regional championships. “To have two students in one year get into a school like MIT, it’s a great thing…it’s a testament to the education that our school is known for and the type of

staff that we have put together.” For the last four consecutive years there have been students who graduated from Bishop Alemany and continued their academic career at MIT. Currently, five Bishop Alemany alumni attend the school.

In addition to its high matriculation rate, Bishop Alemany High School boasts an active involvement in its community. “We also send students down to the food bank a couple of times a month. Bob Warren who is our Director of Christian Service runs that program and they help put together lunches; basically they unload crates of canned goods and place them on wooden pallets, then eventually the food bank’s staff puts them into lunches.”

The school’s recycling program run

by Sr. Sara also helps provide sacked lunches for those in need. She directs students to collect cans and bottles around campus in order to earn money for the lunches, which are then donated to homeless families. Collection around the school happens every day.

Another way the school stays involved in the community is through its mentoring program, Alemany Amigos, which allows Alemany students to host children ages 7-12 for a day of science, sports, and art projects. Several times a year students

from disadvantaged parts of the community visit the school. Anywhere from 160 to 200 students and youth participate in the program.

Bishop Alemany’s reach even extends far past its local community. Staff and students travel to Haiti every year to help tutor and provide mentorship to local kids, in addition to providing two full scholarships to Catholic Schools located in Haiti. The program has existed since Haiti’s 2010 tsunami. “We are very much aware of what is going on in our surroundings and how we can help oth-

ers,” remarks Fletcher.

Bishop Alemany also prides itself on its varied student body. “When you come to our school it’s a diverse community; you immerse yourself into a diverse community, so you are able to work with all different groups of people that come from different socioeconomic backgrounds, to different cultures…I think the diversity in our school is a key component to student success,” explains Fletcher. While about 78 percent of the students are Catholic, students of all faiths are welcome.

The ideal setting

for success.

Bishop Alemany’s spectacular 55-acre campus inspires students to achieve — academically, athletically, artistically and spiritually.

Curriculum includes 4-year Engineering and Biomedical Science project-based programs

Our superb college preparatory curriculum enables teens to lay solid ground work for scholastic excellence while developing strong core values that last a lifetime.

Our renowned Campus Ministry department teaches values, faith and development of the whole student

Call today to schedule a tour.

99% of our students continue on to top colleges and universities in the U.S. and around the world

Bishop Alemany High School A Catholic Community of Excellence

NOW ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS

11111 N. Alemany Drive, Mission Hills, CA 91345 • (818) 837-5222 • admissions@alemany.org • www.alemany.org