SCV Business Journal, September 2020 by Signal

Contact: Perry Smith Business Editor Phone: 661-287-5599

S A N TA C L A R I TA VA L L E Y

BUSINESS JOURNAL BJ INSIDE SPOTLIGHTS B4 A message from the SCV

Chamber B5 SCV Chamber advocacy B7 SCVEDC Economic Outlook

Conference B9 The List: Family-owned

businesses

NEWS & FEATURES B1 A look at compliance B2 Management company

thrives B2 Signal launches local

stimulus plan B3 Support for small

businesses; A look at SCV market B9 Experts discuss job market

SCV BUSINESS VOICES B1 Poole, Shaffery & Koegle B3 M & M Fasteners Supply B3 Mission Valley Bank B6 SCVEDC B10 Audiology Associates B10 Henry Mayo

FROM THE EXPERTS B6 From the Assessor: Tax

savings tips and an FAQ B7 Ken Keller: Four steps to

move forward B9 Paul Butler: Pushing the

envelope

Email: psmith@signalscv.com Mail: 26330 Diamond Place Suite 100 Santa Clarita, CA 91350 SATURDAY, AUGUST 29, 2020 · WWW.SIGNALSCV.COM · B1

L.A. COUNTY’S COMPLIANCE PLANS FOR HEALTH ORDERS BY TAMMY MURGA Signal Staff Writer

os Angeles County health inspectors have received thousands of complaints about businesses not complying with the latest health orders and have conducted multiple visits to ensure infection control measures are put in place. With an estimated 3,000 complaints received per week, the county Department of Public Health has created a tiered compliance and enforcement plan for those caught violating safety measures. “We’re not seeing the compliance that we need, with the Public Health directives in place, to keep people’s health and livelihoods safe,” county Health Officer Dr. Muntu Davis said in a previous virtual media briefing. Complaints about businesses not complying in the Santa Clarita Valley had increased from 93 in May to more than 200 by July, according to Public Health data. “A review of our inspection data revealed most complaints were at restaurants and were generated by the inspectors when they observed the re-opening protocol wasn’t completed,” officials with Public Health’s media department said in an email, adding that 14 businesses with serious violations warranted a re-inspection. Most violations revolved around employees failing to wear face coverings. The goal is to educate businesses in helping them understand what the requirements are “and then assess the severity of the violations,” according to Davis. The county’s plan is broken down into three visits by health inspectors and could include citations and fines for those at repeatedly fail to comply: For permitted and licensed facilities: During the first visit for those permitted and licensed, such as grocery stores, public pools and body art businesses, they are informed about protocols and

Cooled by fans, business owner Maria Barcenas prepares hair color for a customer in the rear parking lot at Maria Argelia’s Beauty Salon in Newhall. In a matter of weeks, businesses have been forced to reinvent their operations in light of COVID-19-related restrictions. PHOTO BY DAN WATSON / THE SIGNAL measures that must be practiced. Inspectors can also issue a $100 fine or a notice of intent to suspect permits. To ensure issues discussed during the visit have been addressed, inspectors can return within three to seven days. If compliance is not met by the second

visit, the department will issue a $500 fine and suspend the facility permit for seven days. A follow-up visit is also scheduled to ensure the locale is in complete compliance with the health officer order and See HEALTH, page B2

SCV BUSINESS VOICES

CORPORATE MEETINGS AND SOCIAL DISTANCING BY CHRIS S. JACOBSEN Esquire, Poole Shaffery & Koegle

n important question in the time of COVID-19 health restrictions remains: How does a California corporation hold its meetings while maintaining social distancing and complying with Public Health orders? Fortunately, the Corporations Code provides a number of alternatives to physical meetings. Meetings of the Board of Directors may be had using conference telephone, electronic video screen communication or other electronic transmission. Participation in a meeting by conference telephone or electronic video screen communication constitutes “presence in person” at the meeting so long as the participants are able to hear one another. Participation by other electronic transmission constitutes presence so long as each participant can communicate with all other participants concurrently and each participant is provided the means of participating in all matters before the board, including the capacity to propose or object to a specific action to be taken by the corporation (Corporations Code Section 307(a)(6)). In addition, a board may take an action without meeting if all directors, individually or collectively, consent in writing to the action (Corporations Code Section 307(b)). Meetings of the shareholders may also be conducted, in whole or in part, by electronic transmission or by electronic video screen communication, and such virtual shareholders are deemed “present in person” at the meeting, provided (i) the corporation implements reasonable measures to provide shareholders with an opportunity to participate in the meeting and to vote on matters submitted to the shareholders and (ii) if any shareholder votes or takes other action at the meeting by electronic means, the corporation maintains a record of such vote or action (Corporations Code section 600(a) and (e)). For the complete code, visit: bit.ly/CAcorporations. However, Corporations Code section 603 requires an advance consent of the shareholders for the holding of such a virtual meeting and the technical logistics needed to manage a meeting involving a large shareholder group may be daunting. Corporations desiring to have the option to hold a virtual shareholders meeting would be well served by undertaking the shareholder consent process well in advance of their proposed meeting date. Always check with an experienced attorney to make sure your business is in compliance with the nuances of the California Corporations Code requirements. Chris S. Jacobsen is a partner in the corporate transactions and business law department at Poole Shaffery & Koegle LLP. His extensive experience encompasses all legal aspects of the business life cycle. For more information, visit PooleShaffery,com, or call (855) 997-7522. 

EMPLOYMENT LAWS HAVE CHANGED FOR 2020 It is extremely difficult for businesses to comply with California’s ever-changing employment laws. Call today for a review of your employment policies and procedures.

Minimize Your Risk of Exposure Today! Poole Shaffery & Koegle, LLP’s employment law services include: ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■

Employment Agreements Employment Practices Severance Agreements OSHA Compliance/Violations Employment Handbooks Unfair Competition/Trade Secrets Wage/Hour Law Compliance

■ Insurance ■ Confidentiality Agreements ■ Family Medical Leave Act, California Family Rights Act, and related leaves

■ Regulatory Compliance ■ Workforce Reductions ■ Terminations

Call 661-290-2991 today to schedule your consultation!

Santa Clarita 25350 Magic Mountain Parkway, Second Floor | Santa Clarita, CA 91355 661-290-2991 · POOLESHAFFERY.COM

SANTA CLARITA | LOS ANGELES | VENTURA COUNTY SAN FRANCISCO | ORANGE COUNTY | SAN DIEGO

B2 · SATURDAY, AUGUST 29, 2020 · THE SIGNAL

MANAGEMENT COMPANY THRIVES DESPITE TOUGH ECONOMY BY EMILY ALVARENGA Signal Staff Writer

rom starting a business in the midst of the Great Recession to continuing to grow that same business 11 years later through a global pandemic, challenging economic conditions haven’t stopped Property Management Professionals from making a name for themselves. “I think when you start a business during a time where there’s adversity and challenges that are unique, you absolutely are going to be able to adapt and change,” PMP President Brad Watson said. “It’s one thing to be able to adapt and change from your operational platforms, but it also takes a team that embraces change and embraces figuring out new ways to do things during adversity.” PMP is a homeowners association management company that has continued to expand over the last decade. The company has now grown to a total of seven divisions across Southern California, along with offices out of state in Austin, Texas and Phoenix. The team manages more than 40,000 homes in 160 homeowners associations. With the housing market all but dried up, Watson and his team were determined to stand out in an industry where there’s a lot of competition, creating something different than the status quo to elevate the experience for clients. “I think that competitive nature really helped us to create something that’s really special, focused on customer service, and it helped us to grow, despite the recession and despite the collapse of the housing market, offering homeowners throughout Santa Clarita Valley, a different type of personal service that they just weren’t getting anywhere else,” he added. When the pandemic hit, it was that adaptability that allowed PMP to transition smoothly into not just working remotely, but offering their services remotely, as well. “The only thing that’s consistent at PMP is change, and that’s part of our culture,” Watson said. “We’re very comfortable with change, and we continue to innovate, continually looking for ways to do better.” Designated an essential service, the

“The only thing that’s consistent at PMP is change, and that’s part of our culture. We’re very comfortable with change, and we continue to innovate, continually looking for ways to do better.” — Brad Watson, PMP president

From left, Professional Property Management V.P. of Operations Sasha Dugandzic; Scott Mikelonis, regional manager; and President Brad Watson at PMP’s headquarters in Santa Clarita. PHOTO BY DAN WATSON / THE SIGNAL PMP team worked to make sure they were able to offer clients all of the same services they would normally offer. “Homeowners can do everything that they used to have to call in or walk into our office to do on their iPads or computers from home, so they have that as an option, and in fact, that option has become very important in our pandemic world,” he added. “We’re humbled to be able to rely on online innovation to

handle most association matters. … It was a very smooth transition for our clients and our board members, so it allowed us to continue working to grow our business.” For Watson, it’s the sense of community they’ve found and fostered within the Santa Clarita Valley that he attributes to the company’s success, translating a community-centric business into a commitment to service.

“That commitment and focus on community is something that everyone yearns for, and it’s something that is lacking in some submarkets,” Watson said. “They appreciate when they see a business that shares that commitment to community, and that’s a big part of what we deliver that sets us apart and also makes such a great relationship between PMP and the Santa Clarita Valley.” Even though the pandemic has changed the way PMP does business, Watson said it hasn’t swayed that commitment, which begins internally with the workplace culture. “I still yearn for the days when we can all get back to the office just because in our company, we spend so much time focused on internal culture, and it’s what led to our growth,” he added. “My goal was to build a company in a culture that extends way past me, and whether I’m here or not, it continues on … And I believe that every one of our 170 employees feels like it’s their company too, and that’s what we wanted to create.” “I’ve always said since inception that no matter how large we grow, I will always keep our corporate office right here in Santa Clarita,” Watson said. “We found great partners here in the Santa Clarita Valley … and the community’s really caring about the businesses who choose to be here.” The SCV’s business-friendly environment is something PMP has valued, as it’s hard to come by, according to Watson. “Opening up in other submarkets throughout Southern California, you just don’t have that type of personal touch that Santa Clarita has,” Watson added. “It’s always been home for me and for my business, and so I want to make sure as we continue to grow that we can continue to grow business here as well.” Property Management Professionals is located at 27220 Turnberry Lane, Suite 150,Valencia.

Signal launches local business stimulus plan BY SIGNAL STAFF

he Signal is launching a Santa Clarita business stimulus program aimed at helping local businesses adapt and survive in the current Santa Clarita Valley economic situation. “This stimulus program will provide up to $200,000 of much-needed

marketing grants to Santa Clarita advertisers,” said Richard Budman, owner and publisher of The Signal. “We understand the challenges our customers are facing, so we’ve shaped the business stimulus program to help with those challenges and help Santa Clarita businesses recover in today’s pandemic business climate.”

The program will be available to SCVowned and operated businesses and will provide matching advertising credits for use in print and digital products. “Our goal with the Santa Clarita business stimulus program is to assist our local advertisers in being better prepared to communicate with their customers,” Budman said.

The Signal will make up to $200,000 available to Santa Clarita businesses through monthly grants ranging from $250 to $15,000. The grants will be awarded in August, September and October of this year. To apply for a grant, send an email to grants@signalscv.com.

HEALTH

Continued from page B1 reopening protocols. The third visit includes a second $500 fine and a permit suspension for 30 days. Public Health will also notify the state of the business’ noncompliance. For those without permit or license Businesses without a Public Health permit or license, such as hair and nail salons or offices, would receive a letter from the department following a complaint reported against them, notifying what corrections needed. If a second complaint is received, a field visit from an inspector would follow. The first visit would include a $100 fine, a notice of violation and a possible referral to an appropriate regulatory agency, such as the state department of Alcoholic Beverage Control or the state Board of Barbering and Cosmetology. Second and third visits constitute a $500 fine each and local law enforcement would be called for the issuance of a misdemeanor citation on the third visit. For every citation filed, businesses have the right to appeal, according to Scott Abbot, branch director of District Surveillance and Enforcement for the Environmental Health Division Department of Public Health. “(The appeal) must be made within 30 days after receiving a citation. It must include the reason for the appeal and you must pay the full amount of the fine prior to the administrative citation hearing,” he said during a recent SCV Chamber of Commerce webinar. “If the determination at the hearing determines that citation was issued and appropriately, the money would be refunded to you.” Employees who find that their employers are not complying with the county’s health protocols, which include that they report to Public Health when three or more laboratory-confirmed COVID-19 cases have occurred in the workplace, can file an anonymous complaint by calling the county’s Environmental Health Department at 888-700-9995 or by visiting publichealth.lacounty.gov/eh. Reported outbreaks at SCV workplaces As of Aug. 21, Public Health had also tracked an estimated 10 COVID-19 outbreaks at Santa Clarita Valley workplaces,

The map indicates L.A.County’s non-residential locations where three or more outbreaks have occurred. For the complete data set, visit bit.ly.SignalCOVIDmap. IMAGE COURTESY GOOGLE MAPS which met the criteria for the department to track them once the businesses reported having three or more laboratoryconfirmed diagnoses: Chipotle on Golden Valley Road reported three confirmed cases and zero symptomatic staff. European Wax Center in Valencia reported four cases and four symptomatic staff. L.A. County Department of Children and Family Services’ Avenue Stanford office reported seven cases and zero symptomatic workers. QMP Water Filtration Co. in Valencia reported 10 cases and zero symptomatic employees. SCV Sheriff’s Station reported five

cases and zero symptomatic staff. Toll Brothers Inc. in Saugus reported seven cases and zero symptomatic workers. True Positions Technologies reported four cases and zero symptomatic employees. Contractors Wardrobe in Valencia reported 17 cases and zero symptomatic employees. Bay Center Foods LLC reported four cases among staff and four symptomatic employees. AV Party Rentals confirmed four cases and zero symptomatic employees. Public Health clarified on its website that “these data are dynamic and may not reflect real-time investigation counts for

these settings. Data will change based on daily information gathered by Public Health investigators overseeing and supervising the investigation.” The duration of time a location is listed on its website depends on how long it may take for the location to have no new positive tests identified in two consecutive 0rounds of testing at skilled nursing facilities or no new exposures at the site for two weeks in non-residential settings, according to Public Health. “Once this occurs, the location is cleared of the outbreak and removed from our website,” Health Department officials said. 

THE SIGNAL · SATURDAY, AUGUST 29, 2020 · B3

SCV BUSINESS VOICES

M & M FASTENERS ENJOYS GROWING IN VALENCIA BY SCV BUSINESS JOURNAL STAFF

& M Fasteners Supply Inc. offers customers more than four decades of experience in wholesale hardware distribution for everything from the manufacturers that make movie magic lighting equipment to the planes that safely carry us all over the world. While the company excels in filling production orders on a wealth of products listed on its website, the company also provides industry support beyond the production line. The customer-driven approach of M & M Fasteners Supply, Inc. is evident in their motto, “Where quality meets customer service,” a big reason why the company has experienced a great deal of growth since moving to Valencia a little over a year ago, according to Eunice Hajek, CEO of M & M Fasteners Supply, Inc. And while the company has always had a strong presence in the commercial sector, M & M is working toward growth in the film and aerospace sectors, which themselves have also experienced a great deal of growth in recent years. In addition to supplying a multitude of “fasteners that mechanically join or secure two or more objects together,” M & M can also provide their decades of collective expertise to help support other manufacturers through their warehouse-operations services, such as custom Vendor-Managed Inventory (VMI) programs, which can help companies organize, catalogue and track materials & equipment — a service that can help companies dramatically improve efficiency and make a significant impact on the bottom line. The VMI service, of course, is in addition to the traditional manufacturing support the company provides: everything from commercial threaded bolts and screws to large OEM’s, MRO’s or Construction hardware and tools to the grips in the Studio Industry, to a custom part, per-print used by the Department of Defense both of which are just some of the growing business needs in the Santa Clarita Valley, where the film and aerospace industries continue to thrive. M & M’s location in the heart of Santa Clarita’s Industrial center, situated amid businesses with similar needs for manufacturing industry-specific services, is ideal for the growth the company expects to see in the coming months and years. Check out our website for monthly promos! M & M Fasteners Supply is a stocking supplier of quality fastener products and accessories specializing in OEM, MRO, electrical and aerospace markets. M & M can also supply parts from a blueprint or technical specification. For more information, visit mmfastsupply.com or call (818) 767-8833. 

SCV BUSINESS VOICES

CONVERSATIONS TO HAVE WITH YOUR BANK TAMARA GURNEY President and CEO Mission Valley Bank

simple truth is that banks cannot be all things to all people. By the same token, not all banks are created equal nor do they focus on the same core competencies. In addition to the overall client experience, businesses need to be sure their bank is a good fit for what is needed to grow and operate their business. Here are three questions to start a conversation with a prospective bank. 1. Is your bank interested in a relationship with your business? The internet provides an unprecedented wealth of information easily available on the strength, health, and direction of financial institutions. A little research can go a long way in determining the health of your own bank, the direction it is taking, and its willingness to have you as a customer. 2. Does your bank provide the array of products and services your business needs? While many large financial institutions spend megadollars on advertising campaigns and flavor-of-the-week products, ask whether what they’re offering really fits your needs. 3. Will your bank be honest with you? There will be times when it’s just not possible to obtain the financial products you are seeking. A good banker should be willing to sit down and review your financials with you in detail and work to explain what areas may need to be addressed so that you are able to secure the financial products and services desired in the future. Learn from the setbacks as much as the successes. Every action is an opportunity to learn something towards achieving goals. Having a relationship with your banker is invaluable. A good banker will earn their role as a Trusted Advisor, invested in the growth and success of your business, and will work closely with you. Lastly, banks must demonstrate their dedication to a broader purpose. They need to prove they are not just driven by quick profits, but also by shared values. There is tremendous value in working with a client-focused, relationship-driven banker who will invest the time necessary to get to know a business and understand its unique needs. The path to long-term success is for businesses to develop long-term relationships with bankers who demonstrate expertise, experience, and dedication to their success. Mission Valley Bank is a locally owned, full service, independent community business bank headquartered in Sun Valley, California with a business banking office in Santa Clarita. For more information visit www.MissionValleyBank.com or call (818) 394-2300. 

2020 DIRECTORS

B4 · SATURDAY, AUGUST 29, 2020 · THE SIGNAL

COVID RESOURCE WEBINAR SERIES

CHAIR OF THE BOARD NANCY STARCZYK

Realty Executives

EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE HUNT BRALY

Poole, Shaffery & Koegle, LLP

MARISOL ESPINOZA

Southern California Gas Company

KEVIN HOLMES

Martini Akpovi Partners, LLP

TROY HOOPER

Kiwi Hospitality Partners

DR. CHRIS RAIGOSA

Kaiser Permanente

CHRIS SCHRAGE

LBW Insurance Financial Services

JOHN VANCE

Vance Wealth

BOARD OF DIRECTORS ANDREA CARPENTER

Logix

STEVE COLE

SCV Water Agency

JASON CRAWFORD

City of Santa Clarita

JEFFREY FORREST

College of the Canyons

MONICA HARRISON

LA Film Locations

BRIAN HIGGINS

AAA Companies

PAM INGRAM

Re/Max of Valencia

ALEEN MANCHESTER

California Resources Corporation

PATRICK MOODY

Henry Mayo Newhall Hospital

BRIAN O’CONNOR

Princess Cruises

DAN REVETTO AT&T HENRY RODRIGUEZ

State Farm Insurance

SANDY SANCHEZ FivePoint LIZ SEELMAN

Southern California Edison

G. JESSE SMITH

California Institute of the Arts

DR. DIANNE VAN HOOK

College of the Canyons

DENNIS VERNER Burrtec KARINA WINKLER

The Santa Clarita Valley Chamber of Commerce has launched its COVID Resource Webinar Series, in partnership with LA County Board of Supervisor Chair Kathryn Barger, to bring the full SCV business community relevant and important COVID resources. The series will feature high-level speakers and original content designed to support our local businesses. The webinar series will kick off on Wednesday, September 2 at 2:30 PM as we receive an update from Dr. Frank Alvarez, Regional Health Officer for LA County Department of Public Health. He will give an update on COVID-19, which includes best practices, health and safety tips for our businesses, and what to expect as we continue to navigate through the pandemic. In total, the series will include five different webinars and take place about once a month. Registration for the first webinar can be found on the Chamber website, www.scvchamber.com, under the Events tab. As each webinar is announced, registration will be made available there. If you have any questions or need any assistance during this time, please email hello@scvchamber.com.

WELCOME TO OUR NEW MEMBERS

Please join us in welcoming our newest members. Our membership is the live blood of the community.

Simplify Optics

www.simplifyoptics.com

Integral Communities

www.integralcommunities.com

6 Degrees HR Consulting

www.6degreeshrconsulting.com

Prosperitas Financial www.prosperitasfin.com

Havana Savannah

www.havanasavannah.com

Holiday Inn Express

BUSINESS COUNCILS

UPCOMING PROGRAMS

The Santa Clarita Valley Chamber of Commerce has the following Business Councils:

Government Affairs

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

Industry & Technology

The Industry and Technology council works to improve and enhance a strong business climate for Santa Clarita Valley based industry, manufacturing, processing and technology companies through pro-business advocacy to develop balanced laws, effective regulations and sound public policies to stimulate economic growth and create new jobs while safeguarding environmental resources.

Small Business

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

Non-Profit

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

Latino Business Alliance

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

NextSCV

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

The Latino Business Alliance will be kicking off Hispanic Heritage Month with an interactive Virtual Celebration. It’s no secret the pandemic has raised many obstacles in our usual planning. We have missed our in-person events and know you have been missing interacting with each other. We are excited to bring you, with the help of our Latino Business Alliance, a new dynamic way we can do just that! Our Hispanic Heritage Virtual Celebration will be an event you won’t want to miss! Join us as we honor the achievements of Hispanic businesses in the Santa Clarita Valley.

To find out more about the Chamber, the benefits of membership, its business councils and all its resources please email hello@scvchamber.com or visit

SCVChamber.com

THE SIGNAL · SATURDAY, AUGUST 29, 2020 · B5

ADVOCACY NEWS As the largest business membership organization in the santa clarita valley, the scv chamber of commerce is the voice of business. the chamber actively advocates on behalf of our business community on important local, regional and statewide issues that have direct impacts on our local businesses

REP. MIKE GARCIA JOINS CHAMBER FOR 2ND ANNUAL CONGRESSIONAL FORUM U.S. Representative Mike Garcia joined Nancy Starczyk, Chair of the SCV Chamber Board, as they discussed about important issues facing the business community, including COVID-19 financial support, transportation, infrastructure, and aerospace. The Chamber looks forward to continuing its partnership with the Congressman and to work to bring an even healthier business climate for the Santa Clarita Valley business community. The Chamber takes an active role in shaping legislative policies in support of business. We represent our members before local, regional, state and federal governmental entities and provides a forum for our members to develop policy positions that directly impact the Santa Clarita Valley business community. U.S. Representative Mike Garcia and Nancy Starczyk, chair of the SCV Chamber Board at the Chamber’s second annual Congressional Forum on Aug. 25.

SCV CHAMBER TO HOST CITY COUNCIL CANDIDATE FORUM With the November election rapidly approaching, candidates will have an opportunity to discuss their views for Santa Clarita, what policy issues are in their vision, and how they plan to make a change for the City of Santa Clarita. Wednesday, Sept. 9 | 3 p.m. Join the Chamber as we hear from the Santa Clarita City Council Candidates as they discuss pertinent issues for our local community. To register for the event, visit www.scvchamber.com under the Events tab. All questions are requested to be submitted ahead of time by emailing hello@scvchamber.com by Friday, Sept. 4 at 5 p.m.

2020 CALIFORNIA COVID-19 WORKERS’ COMP COMPENSATION The following is a summary of current bills moving through the legislative process relating to workers compensation:

AB 196 (Gonzalez): March 1, 2020 – no end date

This bill extends a constitutionally questionable conclusive presumption to all essential employees, as defined,

that COVID-19 is an industrial injury. Workers Covered: Employed in an occupation or industry deemed essential in the Governor’s Executive Order of March 19, 2020 (Executive Order N-33-20), or who is subsequently deemed essential. Excludes firefighters, peace officers and health care employees. Status: Senate Appropriations Committee: Ordered to third reading 08/20

AB 664 (Cooper): January 1, 2020 – no end date

This bill creates a rebuttable presumption for specified employees diagnosed with a communicable disease, as specified. Workers Covered: Firefighters, peace officers and health care employees. Status: Senate Appropriations Committee: Ordered to third reading, Aug. 20

OUR ADVOCACY HAS NEVER BEEN MORE IMPORTANT. JOIN THE CHAMBER TODAY TO STRENGTHEN THE VOICE OF BUSINESS IN THE SANTA CLARITA VALLEY

SB 1159 (Hill): March 19 – January 1, (currently unspecified year)

Codifies the Governor’s Executive Order (N-62-20) that created a rebuttable presumption that “essential employees” who contracted COVID-19 were infected on the job, and establishes the scope and terms of a similar presumption for infected employees outside of the Executive Order. Workers Covered: Public sector or private sector employee who is employed to combat the spread of COVID-19. Status: Assembly Appropriations Committee: Ordered to third reading 08/24 The SCV Chamber would like to thank our member Michelle Heid with Pathways to Advocacy for providing this information.

NOV.3 GENERAL ELECTION UPDATE FROM THE SECRETARY OF STATE All California voters will be sent a vote-by-mail ballot with a prepaid postage return envelope for the November 3, 2020 General Election. All voters can now get critical updates on their ballots through California’s official “Where’s My Ballot?” tracking tool. You can sign up by visiting: www.wheresmyballot.sos.ca.gov. You can select to receive notifications on the status of your vote-by-mail ballot by text (SMS), email, or voice call, including alerts if there are any issues with your ballot and instructions for how to correct them to make sure your vote is counted.

B6 · SATURDAY, AUGUST 29, 2020 · THE SIGNAL

SCV BUSINESS VOICES

POST-COVID TRENDS TO SPUR THE SCV’S RECOVERY HOLLY SCHROEDER President & CEO of SCVEDC

he Santa Clarita Valley is growing, and that’s a good thing. According to Dr. Mark Schniepp of California Economic Forecast, new development and construction will help spur the post-Covid economic recovery in our region. While we are not exactly on a clear road to recovery yet, many people have spent a good amount of time evaluating their priorities, especially when it comes to work/life balance. A MOVE TO THE SUBURBS Home sales, especially for new home construction, have grown during the COVID-19 crises. Whether home buyers are seeking less density and now desire more room to spread out, or they are choosing new construction because they perceive it to be “cleaner,” private home amenities that are typically offered in the suburbs have become highly desirable. Features like home offices, increased square footage and additional bedrooms, and a private yard for getting a taste of the outdoors while remaining socially distanced are top of the list for many who are choosing the suburbs. A REDUCED COMMUTE Business owners are beginning to recognize the benefits of the burbs and are ready to take advantage of reducing office footprints by allowing employees to continue to work from home, and/or opening smaller satellite offices closer to where their teams live. According to a survey issued by the Site Selector’s Guild, 64% of respondents indicated that suburban areas were highly likely to be the location of an expansion or relocation project in the next year. Only 10% thought that urban areas would be attracting projects during that same timeframe. BUILDING OUR WAY TO RECOVERY Today, the Santa Clarita Valley boasts nearly 30 million square feet of industrial and commercial facilities with an additional 9.7 million square feet under construction. Looking ahead, approximately 24 million square feet of future industrial and commercial development is in the pipeline. Projects like Vista Canyon, The Center at Needham Ranch, IAC Commerce Center and the Southern California Innovation Park (SCIP) are now underway, bringing high-quality, high-paying jobs to our region in the aerospace & defense, e-commerce, digital media & entertainment, and medical device sectors. In housing developments, new homes will be constructed in Vista Canyon, FivePoint Valencia (formerly Newhall Ranch), Golden Valley Ranch, Skyline Ranch, Tesoro Highlands, Northlake, and Williams Ranch.

ACCESS THE SANTA CLARITA VALLEY'S

TALENTED WORKFORCE Post job openings online for free at

LiveWorkSCV.com POST A JOB LIVE WORK SCV POWERED BY SCVEDC

For more information about the SCV Economic Development Corp., visit SCVEDC.org, or by calling (661) 288-4400. 

ASSESSOR OFFERS TAX-SAVINGS TIPS AND AN FAQ BY JEFF PRANG Los Angeles County Assessor

here’s a lot of acronyms at play here but when you untangle the letters, you just might get a tax savings that’s oftentimes overlooked. Let me explain: COVID-19 ramifications are everywhere and the value of property is no exception. And it’s directly related to the pandemic. I’m talking about what is called a Decline-in-Value for property, otherwise known as Prop. 8. Simply put: A Declinein-Value or DIV as it’s more commonly called, allows a property owner to formally disagree with their property value and ask for a lower, corresponding property tax. By law, the assessor is required to enroll the lesser of a property‘s base-year value or its current market value. Again, property values are established on Jan. 1 of each year, the lien date and that’s the time we base our analysis. The pandemic did not affect the economy until late February/early March and so property owners will not be able to assess the DIV until probably Jan. 1 of 2021, not this year. I know that this can be somewhat confusing, which is why I’ve been addressing the issue in every speech I give to community organizations. Homeowners may file for the DIV this year and because the lien date of Jan. 1, 2020 does not reflect a decrease in a home’s value, there may not be an adjustment. However, as Jan.1, 2021, comes around and the pandemic has been battering the economy hard, there is most likely going to be a decrease in value. That’s the time to file for the DIV. You can file an application from July 2 through November 30. Moreover, we will aggressively be looking at the values of property as well to ensure homeowners receive the warranted reduction in property taxes. Now remember that the reduction of value is only temporary until the market recovers. As of now, it appears as if real estate is keeping up with the current market while commercial/industrial is looking a bit shaky. Frequently asked questions:

When Jan.1 comes around again, the pandemic’s toll on the economy could present a slight property tax break for homeowners. HOW DO I GET A DECLINE-IN-VALUE ASSESSMENT? You must file a Decline-in-Value Review Application, form RP-87, with the Office of the Assessor between July 2 and November 30. Applications are valid if postmarked by November 30. If November 30 falls on a Saturday, Sunday, or a legal holiday, an application is valid if either filed or postmarked by the next business day. On your claim form, provide the Assessor with information that supports your opinion that the market value for your property is less than the assessed value. The best supporting documentation is information on sales of comparable properties. WHAT IS A COMPARABLE SALE? A property sold with features that are similar to your property is a comparable sale. Comparable sales information helps you analyze the value of your home. For example a property similar in location, zoning, size, number of bedrooms and bathrooms, age, quality and condition to yours that sold in the open market is a comparable sale.

Property values are established on Jan. 1 of each year, the lien date and that’s the time we base our analysis. The pandemic did not affect the economy until late February/early March, and so property owners will not be able to assess the (decline-invalue) until probably Jan. 1 of 2021, not this year.

WHERE CAN I FIND COMPARABLE SALES INFORMATION? A good place to start is online. The Assessor’s website, assessor.lacounty.gov, offers sales information for properties that have sold within the last two years. The same information is available from any Assessor District Office. Also, many websites offer sales information free of charge. A local real estate agent or title agent can also be a valuable source of information. IF MY ASSESSED VALUE IS REDUCED, HOW LONG WILL IT LAST? Decline-in-Value reassessments are not permanent, but last at least one year. The assessed value may decrease or increase

depending on the market value of your property on January 1 of each subsequent year. Your assessed value will never increase more than the trended base value. Do properties other than single family residences qualify? Yes. All real property qualifies. Los Angeles County Assessor Jeff Prang has been in office since 2014. Upon taking office, Prang implemented sweeping reforms to ensure that the strictest ethical guidelines rooted in fairness, accuracy and integrity would be adhered to in his office, which is the largest office of its kind in the nation with 1,400 employees and provides the foundation for a property tax system that generates $17 billion annually. . 

THE SIGNAL · SATURDAY, AUGUST 29, 2020 · B7

MOVING FORWARD — TAKE JUST FOUR STEPS KEN KELLER

SCVBJ Contributor

am using a single word to describe 2020: uncertainty. In most presidential election years, there is also uncertainty because no one is ever sure which way the country will go starting on Jan. 20 of the following year. If there is one thing CEOs hate, it

is uncertainty. Which is why in many presidential election years, the economy generally stays flat. Unfortunately, not 2020. No one knows how long this COVID-19 created recession will last or how it is going to end. CEOs have made changes, on the fly, with the goal of making do or getting by since March. In my conversations, most CEOs believe that things will get back to a See KELLER, page B8

VIRTUAL ECONOMIC OUTLOOK CONFERENCE SET BY HOLLY SCHROEDER President and CEO of the SCV Economic Development Corp.

re you wondering how the COVID-19 crisis has impacted the economy of the Santa Clarita Valley, California, the United States and the world? Does your company rely on accurate and up-to-date demographic data for the region? Are you interested in how growth and development will shape Santa Clarita in 2020 and beyond? If you answered yes to any of these questions, you need to attend our Virtual 2020 Economic Outlook Conference. Designed to provide attendees with

an economic analysis and outlook, the conference will include national, state and global perspectives, but will also focus on the trends and issues associated with the Santa Clarita Valley and the surrounding business community. Attendees will hear about topics such as demographics, employment, residential and commercial real estate development, and quality of life.

FEATURED SPEAKERS We have modified our programming to provide updates specific to how COVID-19 is impacting the local and global economies and added a new speaker; Eric Willet is CBRE’s director of research and thought leadership for the Pacific Southwest Division. Willet will address how the rapidly evolving economy is impacting

commercial office space now, and provide insight into how office workspaces might look in the future. We are also excited to announce that nationally renowned speaker Peter Zeihan will be joining the presenter lineup. Zeihan is a geopolitical strategist who combines an expert understanding of demography, economics, energy, politics, technology and security to help businesses best prepare for an uncertain future. Economist Mark Schniepp of California Economic Forecast will provide a detailed economic forecast for the Santa Clarita Valley. Every attendee will receive a digital copy of the Economic Outlook Book with over 100 pages of current research on demographics, employment,

residential and commercial real estate, new development, quality of life and more, with a 20 page addendum to address the latest developments. The Outlook is scheduled for Sept. 17. It will be live-streamed from 2-4 p.m. For more information, visit scvedc.org/ outlook.

The Santa Clarita Valley Economic Development Corporation (SCVEDC) is a unique private / public partnership representing the united effort of regional industry and government leaders. The SCVEDC utilizes an integrated approach to attracting, retaining and expanding a diversity of businesses in the Santa Clarita Valley, especially those in key industry clusters, by offering competitive business services and other resources 

B8 · SATURDAY, AUGUST 29, 2020 · THE SIGNAL

KELLER

Continued from page B7 somewhat normal basis, whatever that is, once a proven vaccine has been found and is being broadly administered. That may be quite a while down the road, so in the meantime let me share the advice I am giving to my clients, regardless of how their companies are performing. First, to the extent that you can, provide stability. Take care of your people. Do what it takes to keep your employees safe and healthy. This is the time when a CEO can build genuine goodwill with every employee. Don’t let this opportunity pass. Second, determine what your goal is when your company comes out on the other end and be clear about your strategy. I am not saying be naïve and assume you will quickly have double digit growth if you have lost half or more of your customer and revenue base. I am saying set reasonable goals that the company can rally around. I understand that you could well be in survival mode; that every penny counts when looking at cash flow and that you likely have laid people off and you just might have to do it again soon. The Good Book says that “Where there is no vision; the people perish” and I can assure you that your people, from top to bottom, want to know “Where are we going?” and “What is the plan?” Let me clarify that last question so I am clear: your employees are asking you, the CEO, “What is your plan for our company to get us through this pandemic?”

What people aren’t asking but are thinking is, “Will I have a job?” Some companies thrive in chaos, but most do not. So, here is my third piece of advice: provide transparency. I am not saying that you need to open the books and show everyone all the numbers whether it be black ink or red. What I am saying is lay it out, where things are, at that moment in time, and share the options or alternatives as you see them. This will be a moment of truth; the fourth piece of advice. Because now you can share with your employee audience how they can help the company to survive; even to thrive. Maybe it means a pay cut. It may mean working less hours. You may have to suspend a benefit that the company can no longer afford. If your employees understand what and why, they will strive to perform. In uncertain, turbulent and troubled times companies need their leaders to show the way forward. Provide stability, execute the chosen strategy and let transparency guide your communications. Ken Keller is an executive coach who works with small and midsize B2B company owners, CEOs and entrepreneurs. He facilitates formal top executive peer groups for business expansion, including revenue growth, improved internal efficiencies and greater profitability. Email:Ken.Keller@ strategicadvisoryboards.com. Keller’s column reflects his own views and not necessarily those of the SCVBJ. 

A D V O C A T E . E D U C A T E . I N N O VA T E . Congressman Garcia Discusses First 60 Days in Office Republican Congressman Mike Garcia was the latest guest for the Valley Industry Association’s ongoing virtual town hall events, discussing his first 60 days in office representing the 25th Congressional District. The Aug. 3 event was moderated by VIA board member Ed Masterson. Garcia, who filled the seat left empty by Congresswoman Katie Hill, who resigned last November, said one of the top priorities going into his first 60 days was getting three field offices — in the Santa Clarita, Antelope, and Simi valleys — fully up and running, in addition to working through a backlog of case work with constituents. So far, he said, about 30 percent of the cases have been closed. While frustrated by what he described

as extreme partisanship in Congress, Garcia said he has seen some signs of across-the-aisle hope in the work of committees and subcommittees on Capitol Hill. In addition to a bit of an update from Garcia, the onehour virtual event included a question-and-answer period, ranging from economic relief and homeland security to illegal immigration. Garcia said he supports some sort of additional COVID relief package to aid individuals and businesses, but added that a priority is getting Americans back to work. At the heart of that, he said, is figuring out how to get children back to school. Jobs might be available, he reasoned, but if parents can’t go to work because their children still need to remain home to do schoolwork remotely, economic recovery will continue to be hampered. Responding to a question about undocumented immigration and a border wall, Garcia stressed the importance of securing the borders with a physical, three-tier system, in addition to hiring more customs and Border Patrol agents, stopping incentives for people to immigrate illegally, streamline the process to become a citizen, and hold accountable businesses and people who either smuggle, harbor, or hire undocumented immigrants.

• Ideas to assist businesses in recovery from the pandemic. • Continuing the discussion from the 2019 CEO Forum on the difference in younger generation workforce attitudes and how those realities have been affected by COVID-19 work-fromhome requirements. VALLEY INDUSTRY ASSOCIATION

CEO ADVOCATE.EDUCATE.INNOVATE.

FORUM

The Valley Industry Association (VIA) invites you to join us Tuesday, Sept. 29 for the VIA CEO Forum 2020. This year’s event will be held virtually due to the Coronavirus pandemic. The CEO Forum has over the years brought together chief executives and community leaders to identify common business and community issues, while developing solutions. This year’s topics will include the following discussion topics: • The Split Roll ballot measure, which Californians will vote on Nov. 3. The measure is aimed at rolling back many of the protections of Proposition 13 and increase taxes on business properties in the state.

Business executives and community leaders will receive a survey prior to the CEO Forum for feedback that will be used in breakout discussion sessions and shared with the group. Sponsorships are available from $250 - $1000. Individual tickets for this year’s event will be $20.20 per person. Please contact the VIA Office for additional information. kathy@via.org or (661) 294-8088.

STAY TUNED

Tw st WITH A

C E L E B R AT I N G O U R M E M B E R S

The VIA VIRTUAL BASH – with a TWIST! Virtual, yes, but ordinary, no! Stay tuned – information on sponsorship and tickets coming soon.

EVENTS CALENDAR COVID-19: It takes more than a Mask to Cover Your Assets Tuesday, September 1 11:00 a.m. Virtual/Zoom Speakers: Justin Veyna and Sean Copeland, Barkley Risk Management & Insurance, Julie Smith, Custom Human Resource Solutions

VIA Breakfast Club Friday, September 11 7:45 a.m. Virtual/Zoom Infodemic: Media Literacy in an Age of Disinformation Speaker: Brad Chase, Chase Global Media Group

Assembly Candidates Forum Tuesday, September 14 11:00 a.m. Virtual/Zoom Invited: Candidates Suzette Valladares and Lucie Volotsky CEO Forum Tuesday, September 29 11:00 a.m. Virtual/Zoom

Reservations and payment can be made at www.VIA.org/Calendar or call (661) 294-8088

THE SIGNAL · SATURDAY, AUGUST 29, 2020 · B9

WHAT IT MEANS WHEN WE ‘PUSH THE ENVELOPE’ … we’re seeing businesses — and

PAUL BUTLER Signal Contributing Writer

indeed individuals — come up with innovative ways of being able to serve

inston Churchill famously once said of the United States and Great Britain that we are just “two countries divided by a common language,” and I have so often found that to be true. One of the phrases in the workplace I hadn’t heard until we moved here was “pushing the envelope.” I initially thought it meant “hard work” or even “pointless work” — I mean have you ever actually tried pushing an envelope and that’s before you ask yourself why anyone would even want to push one? Can you believe I get grief from calling an eggplant what it really is — an aubergine? I’ve come to learn that “pushing the envelope” means testing limits and trying out new, often radical ideas. The expression comes originally from mathematics and engineering, where an envelope is a boundary. Who knew? At the time of this writing we’re on the verge of the COVID-19 lockdown being lifted. States, counties and even cities are strategizing on the safest way to gradually open up their economies. Some of them may be “pushing the envelope” as they test limits and try out often radical ideas

customers, be the customers or be with other customers. to help us get back to our old normal. It’s people who populate cities, counties, states and countries, and so we shouldn’t be surprised to see some people pushing the envelope. Whether it be churches, hairdressers or restaurants — we see collections of people wanting to be back together. People seem simply fed up with Zoom video conferences and virtual hugs. In their creativity, we’re seeing businesses — and indeed individuals — come up with innovative ways of being able to serve customers, be the customers or be with other customers. We have to balance this envelope pushing with the scientific guidelines we’re being given. I am full of admiration for our local city government and proactive professional associations, such as our local chamber of commerce, that are pushing, balancing and guiding through these uncertain times. We simply cannot continue as we are — the economy has

been devastated by this dreadful disease. It will be the “envelope pushers” of the scientific world who will find a cure for this coronavirus and they’ll likely do it by working as a team. It’s inspiring when I listen to daily podcasts such as the “BBC Global News” or “World Business Report” to hear of individual scientists within individual countries sharing their individual trials and errors with each other. Through technology and the communication methods available to us nowadays, they’re able to share what seems to be working and what isn’t. These scientists are looking at the envelope from all angles — even looking outside of the envelope completely. Their common goal is larger than their individual egos. Isn’t this the definition of an effective team? Someone will likely arise a hero in all of this. There will be an individual scientist who has a “eureka” moment and will

discover the cure. Yet, I remain hopeful they will give credit to the combined efforts of the many. Isn’t this the definition of an effective leader? After Scottish-born Alexander Fleming discovered penicillin, he was knighted by the Queen of England in 1944, becoming “Sir” Alexander Fleming. In his acceptance, he gave credit to his biology school teacher for igniting in him a passion for the subject. One year later, he was awarded the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine but was keen to deflect the praise he received to the arduous duties performed by his work team, who labored with him. Let’s all be hoping and praying that the envelope will be pushed far enough by the interdependent scientific communities around the world to find a cure. May they suspend their individual egos and patriotic pride to stay focused on the fact this will require a worldly effort to combat the world’s virus. In the meantime, let us as customers, employees and business owners safely stay “within the envelope” — respecting the guidelines we’re being given by governments we entrusted to lead us and protect us, so help them God. Paul Butler is a Santa Clarita resident and a client partner with Newleaf Training and Development of Valencia (newleaftd.com). The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily represent those of The Signal newspaper. For questions or comments, email Butler at paul.butler@newleaftd. com. 

THE LIST: F amily -O wned B usinesses I n T he S anta C larita V alley RANK

COMPANY

TOTAL # EMPLOYEES

FAMILY MEMBERS IN THE BUSINESS

DESCRIPTION OF BUSINESS

MAJOR OWNERSHIP

TOP LOCAL EXECUTIVE

WEBSITE

Gothic Landscaping

2,200

Landscape services

Jon and Rob Georgio

www.gothiclandscape.com

Stay Green Inc

370

Landscape services

Rich Angelo, Char Angelo

Rich Angelo

www.staygreen.com

Canon Recruiting Group LLC

300

Staffing and recruiting firm

Laurie Grayem

John Grayem

www.canonrecruiting.com

Andy Gump Temporary Site Services

175

Temprorary site services

Nancy Gump-Melancon

Nancy GumpMelancon

www.andygump.com

Petersen International Underwriters

International medical and health insurance, Lloyds of London

Harold, Michael and Thomas Petersen

Michael, and Thomas Petersen

www.piu.org

The Signal

Media

Richard Budman

www.signalscv.com

Valencia Acura

Auto Dealer

Don & Cheri Fleming

Don & Cheri Flemming

www.valenciaacura.com

LBW Insurance and Financial Services

DND

Insurance and financial services

Mitzi Like

www.lbwinsurance.com

A V Party Rentals

Party and event equipment rentals

Rusty Parr

Rusty Parr and Cathy Holm

www.avparty.com

CBC Cleaning and Restoration, Inc

Emergency disaster cleaning and restoration, residential and commerical

Gordon and Debbie Glasnow

Gordon & Debbie Glasnow

www.cbcfirst.com

Consumers Furniture Gallery

DND

Furniture

Greg Moser

Mary Moser

www.consumersfurniture.com

Teague Custom Marine

Marine engines, parts, accessories, service and high performance parts

Bob Teague

www.teaguecustommarine.com

GW Richardson Heating & Air Conditioning Inc

DND

Heating and air conditioning, solar electricity

Gary and Christy Richardson

Gary Richardson

www.gwrichardsonac.com

Accurate Freight Systems

Transportation and Logistics

Tony Demma

www.shipafs.com

KHTS FM 98.1 & AM 1220

Radio station and website/ Hometown Analytics (The Statster)

Carl Goldman, Jeri Seratti Goldman

Jeri Seratti Goldman

www.hometownstation.com

J David’s Custom Clothiers

Clothier

David Guenther

Jdavids.com

Douglas Furniture

Furniture

Doug Green

www.dougfurn.com

Way Station Coffee Shop

Breakfast and lunch diner

Eric Leeser

N/A

Visual Terrain, Inc.

DND

Special lighting design for architecture, attraction & amusement purposes

Lisa Passamonte Green, CEO and David Green, CFO

Lisa Passamonte

www.visualterrain.net

Tea Elle C Garden Cafe

Specialty tea restaurant

Cecilia Hyon

www.theteagardens.com

Nicholas Aire Systems

Heating and air conditioning

Nicholas Frank

Nicholas & Donna Frank

www.nickaire.com

A Chorus Line Dancewear & Costumes

DND

Dance wear and costume sales and rental

Reena Newhall

Jana Einaudi

www.achorusline.net

Oasis Garden & Patio

Patio furniture

Chris and Amy Boswell

oasisgardenandpatio.com

Brent's Carpet One

DND

Flooring sale and installation

Brent & Ben Griffiths

Brent Griffiths

www.brentscarpetonenewhall.com

Lightning Limos

Party bus, limo rentals, car service

Veena Bali

Vin & Veena Bali

www.mylightninglimos.com

Kupcake Kitchen

Bakery

Ryan Hulbert

www.kupcakekitchen.com

Stacey Hauge Printing Co. Inc

Commerical printer

Dennis Hauge, Linda Hauge

Dennis & Linda Hauge

www.haugeprinting.com

Signs By Tomorrow

Signs and graphics

Becky Hargrave

Becky Hargrove

www.signsbytomorrow.com/santaclarita

Marty's Flooring America

Flooring

Dustin Downen, Greg Smith

Dustin Downen

www.martysflooring.com

Chavez Carpet Cleaning Service

Carpet cleaning

Roberto Chavez

facebook.com/ChavezCarpetCleaning

Tycam Marketplace

Artisan market

Felicia Smith

tycammarketplace.com

Kona Ice of Santa Clarita

Shaved ice truck

Jeff and Carol Katz

Jeff Katz

kona-ice.com

B10 · SATURDAY, AUGUST 29, 2020 · THE SIGNAL

SCV BUSINESS VOICES

BREAKING THE RULES OF HEARING TECHNOLOGY navigate noisy listening environments such as parties • No more whistling DR. KEVIN BOLDER AuD, Audiology Associates

he Oticon Opn S, Oticon’s newest hearing aid, features advanced hearing technology that sets a new bar for what we can expect from today’s hearing aids. Opn S helps you break free of restrictions and join the conversation again. The 360 degrees sound experience makes it easier for your brain to access relevant sounds, reducing strain and listening effort. This device also delivers speech understanding on par with normal hearing*, allowing you to

or restaurants. The Opn S is also rechargeable. Simply charge your devices at night on their stylish portable charging station and enjoy an entire day of hearing after 3 hours of charging. The Opn S is changing the way you experience sound. This advanced technology helps even with the most severe hearing loss. Experience the Opn S in a variety of styles and colors to match your personal preferences. Hearing connects us. Don’t let hearing loss keep you from enjoying all of the sounds that matter to you. The Opn S allows for a full day of hearing with advanced technology, so you’ll never miss a conversation again. ADDITIONAL FEATURES OF THE OPN S INCLUDE: • Easy wireless connectivity

• Improved speech understanding • Convenient recharging on the go *For people with typical hearing loss and well-fitted hearing aids, in noisy situations *Juul Jensen 2018, Oticon Whitepaper The best thing you can do to make sure you are maintaining your overall health and well-being is receive regular hearing screenings in addition to your other doctor visits. To schedule a hearing aid consultation today, please call Audiology Associates at 661-284-1900. Kevin Bolder, Au.D, Patrice Rifkind, Au.D. and John Davis, Au.D. are three of the best in Santa Clarita and San Fernando Valley. Visit our website at AudiologyAssociates.net or stop by our office located at 23838 Valencia Blvd, Suite 100, Valencia. We are hearing healthcare excellence! 

SCV BUSINESS VOICES

PLANNING TO ATTEND A GATHERING? PATRICK MOODY Henry Mayo Newhall Hospital

s we all navigate reopening amid the pandemic, mingling may be on your mind — especially with a long weekend coming. But if you’re thinking about going to a barbecue or other gathering, what should you keep in mind? KNOW THE RISKS No public gathering is risk-free during the coronavirus pandemic. When deciding whether to attend a social activity, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says you may want to consider the following: Group size. The larger the gathering, the greater the potential risk. Location. It’s safer to gather outdoors because maintaining social distancing is easier and the ventilation is better. Also, staying within your community, with other people from the same area, is less risky than traveling. How you’ll get there. It can be difficult to safely distance on public transportation. So favor other ways of getting to your event, like walking, biking or driving with your immediate family. How long the gathering will last. The more time you spend around others, the greater the risk. Your risk for severe COVID-19 complications. If you or someone you live with is older or has underlying health problems, gathering could be especially risky. TAKE PRECAUTIONS If you decide to attend or host a gathering, take steps to prevent the spread of the coronavirus: If you’re sick, stay home. It’s important to avoid crowds if you have COVID-19 symptoms or have had close contact with a person who has COVID-19. Be in the know. Before you go, ask what COVID-19 precautions the hosts will take. Meet outdoors, such as in a park. If you must gather indoors, open a window and follow other COVID-19 prevention practices. Make room for social distancing. Arrange tables, chairs or other furniture so it’s easier to stay 6 feet apart. Wear a cloth face mask. And remind everyone attending to bring theirs. Remember: You can be sick without symptoms. Wearing a mask helps protect the people you’re with, but it’s not a substitute for physical distancing. Offer activities that allow for social distancing. Think Frisbee, catch or sidewalk chalk art. And resist the urge to exchange handshakes or hugs. Clean your hands often. Learn more ways to stop the spread of the coronavirus, and other information about COVID-19, at henrymayo.com/community/coronavirus/ Patrick Moody is the director of marketing and public relations at Henry Mayo Newhall Hospital. For more information about local community health programs, visit HenryMayo.com. 