KEEP ON BEING THE INSPIRATION
It takes courage to step up when the stakes are at their highest. To do what’s never been done. To be first, not for the glory, but for the difference it makes in the lives of others. We’ve been a frontrunner since taking our first steps. From reporting the first AIDS cases to performing the world’s first human bladder transplant, we keep on achieving remarkable breakthroughs when the world needs them most.
UPCOMING EVENTS
Friday November 21 | The AI Shift: Redefining How Business Works 11:45 am. - 1:30 p.m. | COC University Center
Thursday December 11 | Cocktails & Conversation with Captain Brandon Barclay 5:30 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. | Margaritas Mexican Grill
Ball”
The Valley Industry Association (VIA) of Santa Clarita hosted its highly anticipated 2025 BASH — The Mad Hatters Ball — on October 24, 2025, at the Hyatt Regency Valencia. This whimsical evening brought together business and community leaders from across the Santa Clarita Valley for a celebration of excellence, connection, and community spirit. Guests donned their finest teaparty attire and top hats as they enjoyed an evening filled with laughter, inspiration, and recognition.
Honoring Outstanding Achievements
Each year, the VIA BASH honors members and organizations that exemplify leadership, innovation, and commitment to the Santa Clarita Valley community.
This year’s distinguished award winners were:
VIA Volunteer of the Year: Ricki Macken-Chilvers, Pleasantview Industries. Recognized for her extraordinary dedication, service, and volunteer leadership within VIA.
VIA Business of the Year: 360 Executive Suites SCV Honored for its outstanding business success, community engagement, and continued support of VIA’s mission.
VIA Community Impact Award: JCI Santa Clarita Celebrated for its ongoing contributions to the betterment of the Santa Clarita Valley and its impact on local residents and organizations.
Congratulations to all our award winners for embodying the values that make VIA and our community thrive!
A Heartfelt Thank-You to Our Sponsors
VIA extends sincere gratitude to the sponsors who made The Mad Hatters Ball a night to remember:
Queen’s Court Title Sponsor: Valencia Town Center
Mad Hatter Sponsor: City of Santa Clarita
Tea Party Sponsors: UCLA Health, Pleasantview Industries, Wit’s End Woodworking & Design, Young & Chic LLP, SCV Food Pantry, College of the Canyons, FivePoint, QM Design Group, and Mission Valley Bank.
Media Sponsors: Santa Clarita Magazine / Elite Magazine and The Signal
Friday December 19 | VIA Board Installation Luncheon 11:45 am. - 1:30 p.m. | COC University Center
Your generosity and partnership make it possible for VIA to continue supporting local businesses and programs such as “Connecting to Success,” which prepares high-school juniors for future career achievement through direct interaction with business leaders.
A Celebration of Connection and Purpose
The Mad Hatters Ball wasn’t just an evening of celebration — it was a testament to the vibrant spirit of collaboration that defines the Santa Clarita Valley. From the imaginative décor to the community camaraderie, the event showcased what happens when creativity meets purpose.
As VIA looks ahead to another year of growth and partnership, we thank every attendee, sponsor, and volunteer who made this year’s BASH an unforgettable success. Together, we continue to strengthen our business community and create opportunities for a brighter future.
Congratulations once again to our award winners, and thank you to all who helped make the 2025 VIA BASH truly magical!
VIA Celebrates Excellence and Community at “The Mad Hatters
Understanding Phobias: Four Helpful Facts
WBy Patrick Moody Henry Mayo Newhall Hospital
ith the days getting shorter and the nights longer, this is a good time of year to talk about phobias.
For millions of Americans, just the thought of encountering specific objects or situations — an insect or heights, for example — can trigger overwhelming fear and anxiety. If that’s true for you, you may have a phobia. And you’d be far from alone.
Here are four facts about this widespread mental health concern.
1. Phobias are common.
Up to 13% of people are affected by phobias at some point, the American Psychological Association (APA) reports. Specific phobias can lead people to avoid certain objects, places or situations, even when they know the danger isn’t real.
Common phobias include fear of:
Situations, such as confined spaces, flying, going through tunnels, or crossing bridges.
Things in the environment, such as heights, water or thunderstorms.
Animals, such as snakes, spiders, rodents, cats or dogs.
Blood or needles.
2. Most phobias start in childhood.
However, they can develop in adults too. Phobias can start from a traumatic event. But most people say they’ve had their phobia for as long as they can recall.
3. Phobias are different from fear.
Fear is a natural response that can save us from real dangers. For example, it’s helpful to fear a growling dog. On the other hand, fear may rise to the level of a phobia when it is disproportionate to the actual danger, causes a lot of distress and interferes with everyday life. (Fear can also be a symptom of other types of anxiety disorders.)
A phobia of dogs, for instance, might cause you to panic around even a small, gentle dog. That fear might prevent you from visiting your friend with the dog. Or a fear of heights may cause you to drive several miles around a tall bridge.
Even if you don’t avoid the situation or animal you have a fear of, encountering it may cause you a lot of distress.
Phobias can also affect your ability to work certain jobs or enjoy life to the fullest. For instance, a fear of flying could prevent you from traveling for work or vacationing somewhere you long to visit.
4. Phobias are treatable.
One of the most effective treatments for phobias is exposure therapy, the APA reports. That’s when a therapist helps you gradually get
used to the thing you fear in a safe, controlled way.
For example, if you’re afraid of dogs, you might start by looking at pictures of dogs before moving on to looking at a real dog from afar.
If a phobia is affecting your life, you don’t have to face it alone. Ask your healthcare provider for help to find the treatment you need.
The One Question to Ask and Keep Asking
BY KEN KELLER SCVBJ Contributing Writer
In the whirlwind of running your company, balancing growth, managing teams, navigating an everchanging economy, it’s easy to get stuck in the weeds. Strategic clarity can blur, long-term vision can fade, and forward progress stalls.
But what if there were a single question that could cut through the noise and refocus your thinking on what truly matters?
Dan Sullivan, founder of Strategic Coach and a mentor to thousands of entrepreneurs, proposes such a question in his book “The Dan Sullivan Question.” It’s deceptively simple, yet profoundly powerful:
“If we were having this discussion three years from today, and you were looking back over those three years, what has to have happened in your life — both personally and professionally — for you to feel happy with your progress?”
This is not just a question. It’s a strategic lens. For you, it can be a gamechanger.
At first glance, this question might seem like a typical goal-setting prompt. But its genius lies in its structure. It forces you to:
Project forward By imagining yourself three years into the future, you bypass short-term distractions and start thinking long-term.
Reflect backward You’re not just dreaming; you’re evaluating. What has to have happened? What outcomes would make you feel satisfied?
Balance personal and professional Too often, leaders separate business goals from personal fulfillment. This question insists on integrating both.
It’s a question that invites clarity, not just ambition. And clarity is the foundation of effective leadership.
Here’s how you can use the Dan Sullivan Question to drive meaningful change in your organization:
1. Ask It Yourself, Regularly Block out an hour. Sit with nothing
Looking back, what would make you proud, fulfilled and energized.
but the question. Write down your answers. Be honest. What would make you feel proud, fulfilled, and energized three years from now?
Maybe it’s doubling revenue. Maybe it’s exiting the business. Maybe it’s spending more time with your family while maintaining profitability. Travel. Golf. Whatever it is, write it down. Then continue by reverse-engineering the steps from there to here.
2. Ask It of Your Leadership Team
This question isn’t just for you. It’s a powerful tool for aligning your direct reports. Ask each of them to answer it individually, then share and discuss. You’ll uncover hidden aspirations, potential misalignments, and opportunities for synergy. These insights can shape your strategic roadmap.
3. Use It in Hiring and Coaching
Want to know if a candidate or team member is growth-oriented? Ask them the question. Their answer will reveal their values, vision, and whether they think in terms of outcomes or tasks.
For coaching, it’s a great way to help employees set meaningful goals. It shifts the conversation from performance reviews to future-focused development.
As a top executive, your most valuable asset isn’t capital or connections, its perspective. You have the unique ability to zoom out, to think in years instead of days, weeks, months or quarters. But
that perspective only works if you use it.
The “Dan Sullivan Question” is a tool to reclaim that perspective. It’s not about predicting the future. It’s about designing it. And in a world of uncertainty, design beats default every time.
To my fellow business leaders here in the SCV: I challenge you to ask this question before the end of the week. Block the time. Write your answer. Share it with someone you trust. Then ask your direct reports to do the same.
You’ll be surprised at what emerges; not just goals, but clarity. Not just dreams and goals, but plans, and purpose.
In business, we’re often told that as leaders, we must have all the answers. But sometimes, the most powerful tool we have is to ask the right question.
So: three years from now, what has to have happened for you to feel happy with your progress?
Answer that, and you’ll be leading with intention, not inertia.
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.
©ADOBE STOCK
Williams Ranch: A Community Designed for More
When the sunset paints the sky and hills of the Santa Clarita Valley, Williams Ranch comes alive in the kind of light that makes everything feel extraordinary. This is a new kind of community - one that blends California’s natural beauty with a feeling of timeless belonging and what so many homebuyers have been searching for: more.
More space. More connection. More home.
Just minutes from Valencia and the I-5 freeway, Williams Ranch sits in the heart of Castaic, offering a refreshing vision of what “home” means today. Developed by Williams Homes, a local, family-owned builder with deep Southern California roots, it’s a community built from the heart — with the care, craftsmanship and personal touch that only a family company can deliver.
A Family Legacy, A Local Vision
The story of Williams Ranch begins long before the first foundation was poured. For 30 years, Williams Homes has been shaping communities across the West with a guiding philosophy that’s as personal as it is professional: creating places people love to live and homes they love living in. Co-founded by Lance Williams, the company has remained privately held and proudly local, growing from humble beginnings into one of the region’s most respected homebuilders.
That independence has allowed Williams Homes to do something rare in modern development — design with purpose, not formula. “We’ve always believed that homebuilding should feel personal,” says founder Lance Williams. “Williams Ranch is an extension of that belief — it’s our opportunity to build something lasting for the families who live here and for the community we’re part of.”
It’s that sense of ownership and pride that sets Williams Homes apart. Every detail, from the neighborhood layout to the architecture and landscaping, reflects a genuine respect for place. Williams Ranch preserves the area’s natural contours and scenic views, allowing the landscape itself to help define the experience of living here.
Design That Feels Like Home
Set across 430 rolling acres, the homes themselves are as thoughtful as the land they sit on. With 15 distinctive floorplans ranging from approximately 1,736 to 4,400 square feet and offering three to five bedrooms, each residence blends architectural charm with contemporary comfort. Designs span a range of beloved California styles — from Spanish and Craftsman to Farmhouse and Modern Ranch — ensuring variety while maintaining harmony across the neighborhood.
Inside, open and airy floorplans create seamless transitions between indoor and outdoor living. Oversized windows flood great rooms with natural light, while covered patios invite gatherings that last long into the evening. Spacious kitchens anchor each home, built around function and family, with large islands, ample storage and stylish finishes that make entertaining effortless.
Williams Homes also anticipates the way people live today. Flexible spaces adapt to home offices, playrooms, inhome fitness studios, or guest suites and three-car garages, RV parking and generous yards offer the freedom to grow, create and explore. Every home feels like it was designed for real life — because it was.
A Lifestyle That Feels Like a Retreat
Beyond the homes, Williams Ranch offers an experience that goes far beyond the everyday. Residents will enjoy
a junior Olympic–size swimming pool, the beautifully appointed Ranch House recreation center (set to debut in Spring 2026) and over five miles of scenic walkways that wind through the community. Vineyards and citrus orchards pay homage to the valley’s agricultural heritage, while a county park and exclusive gated enclaves provide the ideal balance of openness and privacy. Every feature has been thoughtfully chosen to encourage both connection and calm — places to play, gather and simply be.
A Saturday at Williams Ranch might begin with a bike ride along the paseos, a dip in the pool, or a morning coffee on the patio overlooking the mountains. Families meet up at The Ranch House, kids explore the park and neighbors chat among the citrus groves as the sun sets in warm gold tones. Life here feels both grounded and elevated — a rare combination that makes every day feel like a small retreat.
Building with Care, From the Inside Out
At the heart of Williams Ranch is a philosophy that extends beyond home design — it’s about creating a community with integrity. Williams Homes takes pride in building relationships as carefully as it builds homes, partnering with local craftsmen, trades and businesses throughout the Santa Clarita Valley. Every Williams Homes community
Santa Clarita Valley’s Largest Employers: 2025 Edition
BY ONDRÉ SELTZER PRESIDENT & CEO OF THE SANTA CLARITA VALLEY ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION
Amid constant economic shifts, one thing remains clear in the Santa Clarita Valley (SCV): employers and their teams power our prosperity. Each name on SCVEDC’s annual Largest Employers list represents hundreds, sometimes thousands, of livelihoods. Together, the top 62 organizations employ more than 31,000 people locally. Compiled by the Santa Clarita Valley Economic Development Corporation (SCVEDC), the list offers a snapshot of who’s driving jobs, investment, and opportunity across the valley.
The 2025 roster spans healthcare, education, aerospace, advanced manufacturing, digital media, logistics, and entertainment. Long-standing anchors like Henry Mayo Newhall Hospital and Six Flags Magic Mountain sit alongside global headquarters and innovative manufacturers. This sector diversity gives SCV a resilient foundation and helps explain its reputation as one of L.A. County’s most business-friendly regions.
Private-sector standouts. Logix Federal Credit Union led private gains, expanding its workforce by about 25% (+170). Amazon added nearly 100 jobs as its footprint matured (and with Whole Foods included in this year’s count). Shield Healthcare grew staffing by 26%, and McDonald’s restaurants in SCV increased headcount by 18%, including a new site off Railroad Avenue. Vallarta Supermarkets, which relocated its corporate headquarters to SCV in 2024, added 48 more employees in 2025 across three stores and HQ, bringing its total to 497.
Public-sector momentum. College of the Canyons expanded by 230 employees (up 14%) to meet growing student demand, and the U.S. Postal Service added 93 roles (up 8.7%) at its Valencia processing center. Half of the valley’s 13 largest public-service employers increased headcount. With Santa Clarita’s median household income around $139,000, the talent pipeline between education and industry remains a competitive advantage.
Sectors to watch. Six Flags remains SCV’s largest private employer at roughly 3,000 workers and is advancing a major on-site solar project. Advanced manufacturing and aerospace continue to shine: companies like
Woodward HRT, Aerospace Dynamics International, Fralock, and Crissair contribute to nearly 8,000 advanced-manufacturing jobs—about 40% of all local manufacturing employment— with Aerospace & Defense employment hovering near recent highs. The healthcare, medical device, and life sciences sectors in the Santa Clarita Valley continue to expand, reinforcing
their status as a cornerstone of the local economy.
SCV’s economy in 2025 is strong, diversified, and forward-looking. To explore the full Largest Employers list and dive deeper into the companies shaping our region, read the blog post: https://www.scvedc.org/blog/santa-claritavalleys-largest-employers-2025-edition.
How to Navigate the Real Estate Market
Real estate has long been touted as a worthy investment. Home values historically appreciate over time, making real estate a desirable investment opportunity and one that simultaneously fulfills an investor’s need for a place to live. That sounds like a winwin for those with the means of purchasing a home.
According to the National Association of Realtors, the median sale price for a home reached $419,300 in May 2024. Such high prices has made homeownership as expensive as ever and left many aspiring home buyers to wonder what they can do as they seek to buy a property to call their own. The following are some strategies buyers can consider as they begin searching for a home.
Be Patient
Patience is a virtue prospective home buyers will need to embrace. The NAR reported a 3.7-month supply of housing inventory in May, which is low and suggestive of a seller’s market. But forecast-
ers predict the interest rate reduction announced by the Federal Reserve in September will lead to a higher inventory, even if real estate sales tend to be lower in winter than spring and summer. As indicators like lower interest rates gradually point to a higher inventory, buyers may benefit by remaining patient.
Be Ready to Pounce
Of course, a market characterized by limited inventory is typically competitive, and the real estate market in recent years has certainly played out that way. Patience is important when buying a home, as buyers don’t want to act too fast and then end up living in a home they don’t like. But it’s equally important that buyers be ready to pounce if they see a property they like. Limited inventory means sellers are likely to receive multiple offers and hesitancy could prevent them from finding a new home.
Line Up Your Finances
Mortgage preapproval and a solid nest
egg have long been vital when buying a home, and that remains true in the current market. The competitive nature of the current market might make mortgage preapproval more important than ever. A preapproval indicates to sellers that a buyer has already arranged financing and been approved to purchase. Buyers without a preapproval might be seen as more risky to sellers, some of whom may want to sell their homes as quickly as possible. Sellers in a competitive market may feel they need not wait around for a buyer to be approved, so it’s best to line up finances before beginning a home search. Lining up finances includes building a substantial nest egg that demonstrates an ability to make a sizable down payment as part of your offer.
The real estate market has been tough on buyers in recent years. A successful navigation of the current market may require some patience, a readiness to pounce and some conventional financial wisdom. (MC)
We’re thrilled to invite you to join us in celebrating the exciting new businesses opening in our community! Each grand opening is not just a milestone for these businesses but also a chance for all of us to come together and support our local economy.
From marking special occasions to recognizing remarkable achievements, we feel honored to share in your celebrations. Our grand opening and ribbon-cutting events are FREE and open to everyone to attend! It’s a wonderful opportunity to connect with fellow community members, meet the passionate individuals behind these new ventures, and explore what they have to offer.
Let’s show our support and make these celebrations unforgettable! Bring your friends and family, and let’s celebrate the growth and vibrancy of our community together. We can’t wait to see you there!
Celebrating SCV Businesses
Mark your calendars and come be part of the excitement as new businesses open their doors right here in our community! These grand openings are more than ribbon cuttings — they’re celebrations of growth, local spirit, and fresh beginnings.
Everyone is welcome to join the festivities, connect with fellow community members, and show support for the entrepreneurs investing in the Santa Clarita Valley.
Whether you’re launching a brand-new business or celebrating an important anniversary, we’d love to celebrate you with a memorable ribbon cutting ceremony.
This is the perfect opportunity to showcase your business, connect with fellow entrepreneurs, and celebrate your hard work and success.
Email us at hello@scvchamber.com to learn more about how we can assist in organizing your ribbon cutting or grand opening.
Congratulations to The Little Gym on your grand opening in October. Go visit them at 28313 Newhall Ranch Road. Thank you to everyone who came out to celebrate and support them. Photo credit: Joie de Vivre Photographie
Shannon Hurst, Field Representative for Congressman George Whitesides congratulates Lilia Gharibian on the grand opening of The Little Gym. Photo credit: Joie de Vivre Photographie
Congratulations to Senior Helpers on your grand opening in October. Go visit them at 24781 Valley St, Suite #B, Santa Clarita. Thank you to everyone who came out to celebrate and support them. Photo credit: Joie de Vivre Photographie
Councilmember Marsha McLean congratulates owners Dr. Sai Nikitha Thummalakunta & Raghu Toutam on the grand opening of Senior Helpers. Photo credit: Joie de Vivre Photographie
EVENTS
Don’t miss the last mixer of 2025 on November 19! Enjoy light fare from Porto’s and live entertainment by Rat Pack Ricky at Dignity Memorial. You will make connections and meet like-minded professionals, entrepreneurs, and industry experts from across the Santa Clarita Valley.
Continuing a valued tradition, we are once again partnering with Dignity Memorial to support the SCV Food Pantry. Bring nonperishable food items (requested list on website), and for every 10 items donated, you’ll receive a raffle ticket for a chance to win exciting prizes, including the grand prize, a 65-inch Smart TV so don’t forget your business cards!
Celebrating SCV Businesses
Congratulations to Three Two Three Dentistry on your grand opening in October. Go visit them at 25570 The Old Road, Valencia. Thank you to everyone who came out to celebrate and support them. Photo credit: Joie de Vivre Photographie
Tyler Pledger from the City of Santa Clarita congratulates Dr. Brian Edwards on the grand opening of Three Two Three Dentistry. Photo credit: Joie de Vivre Photographie
To view our full calendar and event details go to www.SCVChamber.com or scan the QR Code to the right.
Celebrate the Season with Connection and Community – November 18
Join us for a special evening honoring the incredible businesswomen in our community! Enjoy cocktails, conversation, and collaboration in a relaxed setting designed to foster genuine connections and celebrate the season together.
Your emcees, Jenny Ketchepaw and Debbie Hollbrook, will keep things lively with fun activities to spark introductions and conversation.
Registration closes November 7 and space is limited—reserve your spot today!
Big Plans Proposed for Valencia
DEVELOPING STORIES
BY PERRY SMITH Senior Staff Writer
There might be a new expression to describe the pace of development in Santa Clarita: If you don’t like how it looks, just wait five minutes.
For example, there’s going to be a whole lot of construction in the commercial heart of Valencia over the next few years.
While Santa Clarita residents are still awaiting what’s next for the Valencia mall, the state court system made a major announcement for its neighbor, the Santa Clarita courthouse.
The Judicial Council of California, the policymakers for the largest court system in the nation, announced the publicnotice period for plans to build an eightstory, 24-courtroom “full-service justice hub for the region.
The address given for the 3.75-acre project is 26501 McBean Parkway, next to the McBean Regional Transit Center, putting the courts across the street from where Centennial is planning a commercial and residential investment expected to exceed $850 million and add 2,200 homes.
That’s definitely the biggest development news this month but not the only story.
Coming to 24200 Lyons Ave. is Savers Thrift, a store scheduled to open Nov. 20, according to its information posted online. The international chain of thrift shops specialize in second-hand clothing store, buying a supply from nonprofits and accepting donations.
Going into Avenue Hopkins is Mozza’s Private Fitness/Training Studio, a oneon-one fitness training studio that’s going to be open from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.
In addition to new signage for Tesoro Del Valle, there’s also going to be quite a bit of activity on Bouquet Canyon Road.
City and county officials also mentioned in October there are a pair of plans for Bouquet Canyon at various stages that will bring more than 650 homes to Saugus.
The construction that’s seen a major
The Judicial Council of California, the policymakers for the largest court system in the nation, announced the public-notice period for plans to build an eight-story, 24-courtroom “full-service justice hub for the region.
increase in recent months is up Bouquet Canyon Road is part of a Lennar development of 375 residential units and a realignment of Bouquet Canyon Road.
The land, a mixture of landscapes — prominent hills on its western side and Bouquet Creek flowing from east to west in the northern part — has drawn attention lately due to the recent fencing and grading activity.
The development is now in the first of five phases, which will add a residential community consisting of up to 375 attached and detached, two-story, for-sale housing units located within five neighborhoods. The actual building area for the homes is just under 16 acres, according to the 2020 plans.
Farther up Bouquet Canyon Road in unincorporated territory, the Synactico project is still being worked on with county officials, according to Chad Stadnicki of Synactico Investments, who indicated that Synactico was the ownerdeveloper for the property. He said he did not expect to see any action on the project in front of county planners until later next year.
The plans for the unincorporated areas propose the creation of 281 residential lots, 33 homeowner association lots, four
water quality basin lots, three L.A. County Flood Control lots, one water tank lot and one Santa Clarita Valley Water Agency lot on 328.7 gross acres, according to the environmental review documents for the plan.
The plans also call for an entitlement for an administrative housing permit for 15 affordable set-aside units provided at a maximum affordability of 135% area median income or less, in compliance with the county’s inclusionary housing ordinance.
The plans call for 233 acres of the land to remain open space.
As the pumpkin patches go away, you’ll also start to see a few Christmas tree lots sprouting up all over town.
Santa Clarita planners are reviewing an application for a seven-home subdivision in the northeastern border of the city, near Agua Dulce.
The plan calls for homes next to an undeveloped lot just east of the 14800 block of Daisy Meadow Street, on land east of Grandifloras Road and west of Orchid Cove Drive. The lot is 92,667 square feet, according to records at the L.A. County Assessor’s Office, which puts the property at 2.13 acres.
WILLIAMS
Continued from page 7
provides opportunities for local employment and collaboration, strengthening the regional economy and reinforcing the company’s commitment to Southern California’s future. That dedication has earned Williams Homes a loyal following of both homeowners and professionals who recognize the brand as synonymous with trust and quality.
“Williams Ranch represents everything we stand for as a company,” notes Kyle Milano, Southern California Division President. “It’s large enough to feel vibrant, but personal enough to know your neighbors. That’s the sweet spot for families today.”
The People Who Call It Home
Part of what makes Williams Ranch so special is the kind of people it attracts. Many residents are move-up buyers from across the Santa Clarita Valley, drawn by the larger lots and custom touches that are increasingly rare in new construction. Others are young families or professionals from Los Angeles, seeking more space and serenity without sacrificing proximity to the city.
The community’s diversity of home sizes and floorplans allows for a rich mix of life-stages and lifestyles. From empty nesters who want room for visiting grandkids to growing families who crave both elbow room and connection, Williams Ranch meets people where they are — and gives them space to evolve.
As one resident put it: “We were look-
ing for a home that felt like an escape but still close to everything we love. Williams Ranch struck that perfect balance — it feels peaceful but connected.”
A Community that Gives Back
Williams Ranch was designed to cultivate community from the start — and that spirit extends well beyond its gates. Through initiatives like Family Promise of Santa Clarita Valley, the company partners with local organizations and nonprofits to give back, focusing on housing, education and family wellness.
That sense of generosity also shows up within the neighborhood itself. Williams Homes’ Referral Program rewards residents and friends who introduce new buyers to the community with a $5,000 referral bonus when a sale closes without a real estate agent. It’s a simple, neighbor-to-neighbor way to share something special — and to thank those who help others find their place here.
A Catalyst for Growth in Santa Clarita Valley
For the Santa Clarita Valley business community, Williams Ranch represents more than just another residential development — it’s a case study in thoughtful regional growth. By anchoring a new pocket of high-quality housing in Castaic, the project helps meet increasing demand while supporting local commerce, schools and services.
With its blend of upscale design, community amenities and family appeal, Williams Ranch strengthens the area’s housing mix and reinforces the valley’s reputation as one of Southern Califor-
nia’s most desirable places to live and work.
Built for Today — and Tomorrow
More than a decade in the making, Williams Ranch is both a reflection of the past and a blueprint for the future. It honors the wide-open spaces that define the Santa Clarita Valley while embracing the innovation that defines modern California living.
For Williams Homes, it’s also a legacy project — a culmination of everything the company has learned over the years about what people truly want in a home: connection, comfort and character.
As Lance Williams summarizes, “Williams Ranch is about more than building houses. It’s about creating a place that feels right — where families can grow, where neighbors can gather and where life feels just a little more beautiful.”
Experience Williams Ranch
Williams Ranch isn’t just another new home community — it’s the most desirable address in Castaic, a place where space, style and serenity come together to create something truly special.
To experience it for yourself, visit WilliamsHomes.com or stop by the Williams Ranch Sales Center at 28801 Hasley Canyon Road, Castaic, CA 91384. Models are open Tuesday - Saturday 10am – 5pm and Monday 1pm – 5pm. Private tours are also available by appointment by calling 661-344-9200.
Come see why Williams Ranch is the place for more — more space, more beauty and more of what makes life truly feel like home.
Realtors See Slight Increase in Closed Listings
BY DAVID WALKER
Southland Regional Association of Realtors
Single-family home and condominium sales and active inventories posted year-over-year increases in the Santa Clarita Valley during September, the Southland Regional Association of Realtors reported for September.
Local experts are holding onto their optimism for the SCV marketplace with some relief in the interest rate helping buyers, in addition to a slight increase in the year-over-year figures for September.
Local Realtors helped close escrow last month on 167 single-family home sales, a total that was up 4.4% from a year ago. The 69 condominiums that changed owners rose 7.8% — which was only the second time this year that condo sales increased.
Both sales categories remain well below the Covid-pandemic fueled activity of 2020 and 2021 though, fueled by lower interest rates and higher supply, they have a chance to match last year’s sales totals that posted the first increase in annual sales following two years of annual declines.
“Recent cuts in interest rates and the prospect of additional reductions may draw more prospective buyers into the market in the waning months of the year,” said Anthony Bedgood, President of the 10,000-member Southland Regional Association of Realtors. “With a swelling inventory, sales may also increase if buyers believe the current opportunities erase doubts about the direction of the national economy.”
The association reported 583 singlefamily active listings at the end of September, an increase of 15% over the figures for the month of September 2024. Home listings peaked this year with 695 in June and remain just below pandemic heights seen in 2019 as the pandemic gripped the nation.
The 282 condominium active listings of September were up 30.6% year-overyear, falling just shy of the 288 listings reported in July, a total that surpassed pandemic era condo inventories.
“At a time of year when market activity typically begins to slow, home and condo
“With a swelling inventory, sales may also increase if buyers believe the current opportunities erase doubts about the direction of the national economy.”
sales in Santa Clarita may provide a few more surprises before 2025 slips away, especially if the Fed cuts interest rates again,” said Valerie Biletsky, the SRAR’s Chief Executive Officer. “A busier than usual end to the year is more likely now that there are fewer multiple offers reported and with resale prices beginning to show some softness.”
The median price — meaning half the sales had higher prices and half lower prices — of single-family homes that changed owners in Santa Clarita during September was $850,000, which was unchanged from a year ago. The record high $910,000 median of March 2024 was the only median price on record coming in above the $900,000 benchmark.
The condominium median price reported in September was $547,000, up 5.7% from a year ago. The record high condo median was reported at $650,000 in June 2024.
SRAR’s Income-to-Loan guide for September found that an income of $142,631 was needed to qualify for an 80% loan of $437,600 on a Santa Clarita Valley me-
dian-priced condominium of $547,000. With the national average interest rate of 6.71%, the income needed to qualify decreased 9.4% from a year ago. The monthly PITI — principle, interest, taxes and insurance payments — came to $3,566.
In the Santa Clarita Valley market, Newhall had the most affordable housing based on September’s listings, with the median list price at $575,000 for singlefamily residential homes. The median sale price remained above $700,000.
There are two areas — on opposite sides of the Santa Clarita Valley — which are quite close to each other in terms of median listing price: In Agua Dulce, there were 20 active listings and five escrows closed, with a median list price of $1.15 million.
Chartered by the National Association of Realtors in 1920, the SRAR is the voice for real estate in San Fernando and Santa Clarita valleys. With nearly 11,000 members, SRAR serves as a trusted resource and partner to the real estate profession and the community at large.
The association reported 583 single-family active listings at the end of September, an increase of 15% over the figures for the month of September 2024. ©ADOBESTOCK
A Guide to Mortgage Interest Rates
Buying a home is the most expensive purchase many people make in their lifetime. Some people do it only once, while others are in the market with greater frequency. In any instance when the home buying process involves securing a mortgage, buyers can benefit from knowing a thing or two about mortgage interest rates.
A mortgage interest rate can help buyers determine if a given home is affordable or beyond their budget. Rocket Mortgage says mortgage interest rates can have a major impact on long-term costs, so it is imperative to seek the lowest rates possible. However, an assortment of economic variables affect mortgage interest rates, and conditions unique to each buyer also can affect the rate they’re eligible to obtain. Understanding home loan rates can help potential buyers better navigate the complex process of buying a home.
What is mortgage interest?
When a person buys a home with a mortgage, he or she doesn’t just pay back the amount borrowed, which is called the principal. The loan also requires paying interest, which is essentially the cost of borrowing money. Mortgage interest is calculated as a percentage of the remaining principal, says Investopedia.
How are mortgage rates set?
Mortgage rates are not determined by a single variable. They are derived from a combination of factors that includes the Federal Reserve’s monetary policy, economic conditions and a borrower’s personal financial situation. The Federal Reserve (in the United States) influences the overall rates by adjusting the federal funds rate, or the rate at which banks lend to each other overnight. This not only impacts mortgage rates, but also additional interest rates, according to Fannie Mae. Lenders will ultimately decide on the specific rates to offer borrowers.
How does a borrower’s financial situation affect mortgage rates?
Lenders will conduct a thorough assessment of a potential borrower’s creditworthiness. They will look at, among other things, a borrower’s credit score and debt-to-income ratio. A higher credit score typically results in a lower interest rate. A lower DTI indicates a lower risk to the lender, also potentially resulting in a lower interest rate. Squaring away finances well in advance of applying for a mortgage can help home buyers secure lower interest rates that could save them considerable sums of money over the life of their mortgages.
How do loan types affect mortgage interest?
A home buyer will pay interest no matter the mortgage type, but there are options to select a fixed or adjustable interest rate, or even interest-only mortgages. According to Bankrate, with a fixedrate mortgage, the interest rate remains the same throughout the life of the loan, meaning the payment for principal and interest will remain consistent. Additional charges that are wrapped into mortgage payments could change, however. Property taxes and homeowners’ insurance charges could increase, for example. Fixed rates tend to be lower when the term of the mortgage is shorter. So borrowers can opt for a 20-year mortgage over a 30-year to save some money on interest.
An adjustable-rate mortgage will see the interest rate change during the repayment period. It may start with a low introductory rate for the first several years of the loan, but then can go up or down depending on market indexes and benchmarks. Many lenders put a cap on how high the interest rate can go, however. Various factors determine mortgage interest rates for home buyers, including market conditions, credit standing, federal rates, the type of loan, and term length. (MC)
Reminder of Disabled Veterans’ Tax Savings
BY JEFF PRANG Los Angeles County Assessor
As Thanksgiving approaches, many of us will gather with family and friends to reflect on our blessings. It’s also a time to pause and remember those who have worn the uniform of our great nation. Veterans Day, coming up on Nov. 11, gives us that moment to honor their courage, their sacrifice and their enduring service.
Veterans Day is often misunderstood with Memorial Day. Memorial Day honors those who gave their lives in service to our country. Veterans Day, on the other hand, honors all military veterans; those we’ve lost and those still with us today.
The roots of the holiday go back more than a century. First proclaimed in 1919 by President Woodrow Wilson, Armistice Day marked the end of World War I. The armistice was signed at the “11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month” in 1918, and Nov. 11 became a day of reflection and gratitude. Over time, Armistice Day evolved into Veterans Day, expanding its meaning to include all who have served in the U.S. Armed Forces.
Now, while Veterans Day is a time of recognition, it’s also a good moment to remind our veterans, especially those living with disabilities, that there are property tax savings available through my office. I often say this, and I’ll say it again: We cannot remind our disabled veterans enough about the benefits they’ve earned.
The Disabled Veterans’ Exemption is designed to ease the burden for veterans who are rated 100% disabled by the Department of Veterans Affairs, or who receive compensation at the 100% rate because they are unable to work. The unmarried surviving spouse of a qualified veteran can also apply. This exemption lowers property taxes on the veteran’s primary residence, often resulting in real, tangible savings every year.
Eligibility is tied directly to injuries sustained during military service. Qualifying conditions include blindness in
The Disabled Veterans’ Exemption is designed to ease the burden for veterans who are rated 100% disabled or who receive compensation at the 100% rate because they are unable to work.
both eyes, the loss of use of two or more limbs, or a total disability. And just to be clear, only disability ratings from the Department of Veterans Affairs are accepted. While there is no deadline to file, refunds are only available for up to eight years retroactively, based on the effective date of the disability rating. To make sure you receive the full benefit for the coming year, though, the exemption should be filed by Feb. 15.
There are two levels of exemption available:
• The basic exemption, sometimes called the $100,000 exemption, is available to all qualifying claimants. Because the amount is adjusted annually for inflation, the exemption for 2025 is $175,298, saving veterans roughly $1,800 on their property tax bill. For 2026, the basic exemption will be $180,671.
• The low-income exemption, often called the $150,000 exemption, is available to those whose annual household income is below a certain threshold. For 2025, the exemption is $262,950 with an income limit of $78,718, which adds up to about
$2,600 in savings. Again, for 2026, the low-income exemption will be $271,009 and the household limit will be $81,131.
These are not small amounts. They can make a meaningful difference for veterans and their families.
As your Assessor, and as a grateful American, I want to say thank you to all our veterans. Thank you for what you have done, for what you continue to do and for the example you set every day. Our democracy stands strong because of your service, and we can never say those words of gratitude often enough.
If you or someone you know may qualify, please visit assessor.lacounty.gov/exemptions/disabled-veterans or call (213) 974-3211. My office is here to help.
For more information about the Assessor’s Office and its tax-saving programs, visit assessor.lacounty.gov. Prang leads the largest local public property assessment agency in the nation. His office of about 1,400 appraisers and support staff work to create an accurate and timely property Assessment Roll.
©ADOBE STOCK
‘The Soundtrack of Work’
BY PAUL BUTLER SCVBJ Contributing Writer
If I’ve learned anything about the human condition, it’s that we all love music, and we work to make a living.
Many songs through the decades have captured this paradox, turning the nine-to-five into poetry that honors struggle and celebrates small victories. In both music and work, we seek meaning, connection, and the quiet satisfaction of contributing to something larger than ourselves.
So, let’s press play on 10 famous tracks that have echoed through cubicles, coffee shops, and commutes — each offering insight into the rhythms of work. Chances are, you’ve tapped your foot, nodded your head, or even sung along — perhaps without realizing how deeply these songs mirror the way we live and labor.
1. ‘9 to 5’ – Dolly Parton (1980) Dolly Parton’s upbeat anthem captures the frustration and resilience of employees who “pour themselves a cup of ambition.” Beneath its catchy rhythm lies a call for fair leadership and recognition. The song reminds managers that motivation isn’t just about pay — it’s about purpose.
2. ‘A Hard Day’s Night’ – The Beatles (1964) When The Beatles sing, “I’ve been working like a dog,” they highlight dedication rewarded by appreciation — “but when I get home to you, I find the things that you do make me feel all right.” This is a reminder of why we work—to be with those we love.
3. ‘She Works Hard for the Money’ –Donna Summer (1983) This disco classic pays tribute to people in the service industry, working tirelessly yet often overlooked. Today, it resonates with conversations about fairness and honoring frontline workers. Leaders who recognize hard work cultivate loyalty, morale, and empathy.
4. ‘Work’ – Rihanna ft. Drake (2016) Rihanna’s repetition of “work, work, work, work, work” captures both the monotony and rhythm of modern productivity. It’s an anthem for persistence and collaboration, echoing the tempo of project dead-
lines and teamwork.
5. ‘Takin’ Care of Business’ – BachmanTurner Overdrive (1973) This rock anthem celebrates entrepreneurial independence — “If you ever get annoyed, look at me, I’m self-employed.” It’s a perfect reminder for leaders and innovators that empowering employees to take initiative drives creativity and engagement.
6. ‘Workin’ Man Blues’ – Merle Haggard (1969) Haggard’s ode to blue-collar life honors those who “keep my nose to the grindstone.” His lyrics reflect integrity, reliability, and pride — values central to any healthy workplace culture.
7. ‘Manic Monday’ – The Bangles (1986) “Just another Manic Monday” captures the shared exhaustion of rushing into the workweek. It reminds people to consider work-life balance and the human side of productivity.
8. ‘Working Class Hero’ – John Lennon (1970) Lennon’s biting lyrics expose the disillusionment that can arise from rigid systems. It challenges organizations to nurture individuality rather than demand conformity, creating workplaces where authenticity thrives.
9. ‘Whistle While You Work’ –from Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs (1937) This cheerful Disney tune may seem simple, but its message is timeless: attitude shapes experience. A positive, collaborative spirit transforms even mundane tasks, showing that mo-
rale and emotional intelligence are key to teamwork.
10. ‘Workin’ for a Livin’’ – Huey Lewis & The News (1982) Lewis’s rock anthem celebrates perseverance while acknowledging the grind. It’s a reminder for leaders to balance drive with humanity, motivating teams without burning them out. As just a sampling of songs here, they remind us that work is never just labor — it is a human expression, a rhythm we inhabit, a melody we shape and a story we tell.
From Dolly Parton’s ambition to The Beatles’ gratitude, from Donna Summer’s tribute to unseen effort to Lennon’s call for authenticity, each track reflects a facet of the life we live and the work we do to make that life.
They teach us that perseverance, creativity, connection, and attitude transform routine into purpose, and effort into meaning. I heard it once said, “Our work can be love made visible” and I agree with that. So, pour a cup of inspiration, hum through the grind, and let your work, like music, echo with heart, harmony, and humanity — making every working day, in its own way, sing.
Paul Butler is a Santa Clarita resident and a client partner with Newleaf Training and Development of Valencia (newleaftd.com). For questions or comments, email Butler at paul.butler@ newleaftd.com.
