Top 51 2021

SINCE 1919

SignalSCV. com

17th Annual Issue Special Section to The Signal — October 2021

2 · Santa Clarita’s Most Influential 2021 • The Signal

COMFORT KEEPERS

IN-HOME CARE W W W. C O M F O R T K E E P E R S . C O M

Caring for seniors in their home for over 20 years Services Include • Alzheimer’s/Dementia Care • Medication Reminders • Cooking, Light Housekeeping • Incidental Transportation • Grooming, Dressing • Laundry • Personal Care Services: - Bathing, Hygiene - Incontinence Care • Companionship and... so much more!

MAKES EVERY MOMENT MATTER

Interac that im mental achiev into op minds,

Call FRE 1� 0 2

0 02 2 1 02 2

Your choice for the Best in-home care for 11 years

NOW !

HIRING

6

Interactive Caregiving™

81

Voted Best Senior Care 7 Years in a row!

Voted Favorite In-Home Care 5 Years in a row!

Now Hiring

Each office independently owned and operated. © 2010 CK Franchising, Inc.

Call us today to schedule your FREE in-home assessment and consultation.

Santa Clarita: 23900 Lyons Ave - 661-287-4200 Encino: 17915 Ventura Blvd #216 -818-776-5060 Each office independently owned and operated. © 2010 CK Franchising, Inc.

Santa Clarita’s Most Influential 2021 • The Signal 3

FLOOR & HOME

BEST PRICE BEST INSTALLERS BEST SERVICE

Member of Carpet One, the largest specialty flooring buying group in the world Nationally negotiated prices Family owned & operated under 1 license for 42 years.

C

19 0 2 20 0 2 21 0 2

▪ FreeOpUa P O N d ▪ Additiona upgrade l 10% o hard sur ff face mat e (includin

rial pricin g

The Beautiful

g SALE p

ricing)! *Only on coupon Purchases over M US T $500 before c be presented a 0, t or ontract sign Valid Un til 11/30 ing. /21

Thanks, Santa Clarita for voting us the:

Best Carpet & Flooring Store for 17 years!

UP TO

50%OFF

IN STOCK ITEMS!

12 months 0% Financing

GUARANTEE™

*

Only one store has The Beautiful Guarantee™. If you don’t love your floor, we will replace it with another floor for free. Labor, materials, you name it - we are so confident we can help you find the floor you love, that we Guarantee it!

*See store for details

*see store for details

FLOOR & HOME

24220 LYONS AVE., NEWHALL • (661) 255-3337

Hours: Mon. 9 a.m. - 7 p.m. • Tues. thru Fri. 9 a.m. - 6 p.m. • Sat. 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. • Closed Sunday

www.BrentsCarpetOne.com

4 · Santa Clarita’s Most Influential 2021 • The Signal

Santa Clarita’s Most Influential 2021 • The Signal 5

Table of Contents PAGE 7 No. 1

PAGE 22 Scott Wilk

No. 26 Don Fleming

PAGE 8 No. 2

Kathryn Barger

No. 3

Ken Striplin

PAGE 10 No. 4

Larry Rasmussen

No. 5

Mike Garcia

No. 6

Laurene Weste

PAGE 12

Richard Budman

Signal Publisher/Owner

6 · Santa Clarita’s Most Influential 2021 • The Signal

Marlee Lauffer

PAGE 23 No. 28 Stephanie English No. 29 Mark Blazer No. 30 Michael Berger

PAGE 24 No. 31 Nola Aronson No. 32 Linda Storli-Koontz

Cameron Smyth

No. 33 Robert Newman

No. 8

Suzette Valladares

PAGE 26

No. 9

Don Kimball

No. 34 Patrick Moody

No. 10 Dianne Van Hook

Welcome to this year’s list of The Signal’s “Top 51 Most Influential” people in the Santa Clarita Valley.

Congratulations to the 51 people who made the list, you are the doers and not the talkers who make things happen in this valley.

Everyone on this list is caring and compassionate and takes great pride in our community, making Santa Clarita one of the greatest communities on earth to live.

Thank you for your hard work and efforts, it is greatly appreciated. This list is to recognize you and all of your combined contributions to this valley.

You may not agree with one or even all the people on this list, and that’s fine.

This is not a science; we encourage disagreement and debate. This IS however how The Signal sees the 51 most influential people of last year.

I would especially like to congratulate the ten new members to this year’s “51 most influential” list.

Congratulations and Thank You to all 51.

No. 27

No. 7

PAGE 14

From the Publisher

No. 25 John Shaffery

No. 11 Matt Stone No. 12 Joe Messina

PAGE 13 No. 13 Justin Diez No. 14 John Musella No. 15 Bill Miranda

No. 35 Marsha McLean No. 36 Bill Cooper

PAGE 27 No. 37 Wayne Crawford No. 38 Sandy Sanchez No. 39 Andrew Taban

PAGE 28 No. 40 David Hegg No. 41 Rick Patterson

PAGE 16

No. 42 Cherise Moore

No. 16 Holly Schroeder

PAGE 30

No. 17 Hunt Braly

No. 43 Kevin MacDonald

No. 18 Jason Gibbs

PAGE 18 No. 19 Roger Seaver No. 20 Carrie Lujan No. 21 Randy Wrage

PAGE 20 No. 22 Jason Crawford

No. 44 Cary Quashen No. 45 Valerie Bradford

PAGE 32 No. 46 Tim Burkhart No. 47 Ivan Volschenk No. 48 Brian Koegle

PAGE 34 No. 49 Kathy Norris

No. 23 Joe Caso

No. 50 Jim Backer

No. 24 Mike Kuhlman

No. 51 Kathy Martin

1 “State Sen. Scott Wilk shows year in and year out why he’s an outstanding representative of and for the Santa Clarita Valley. Born and raised a resident of the 21st District, he works tirelessly on behalf of his constituents with a legislative record of achievement to prove it.”

— Richard Budman Signal Publisher/Owner State Sen. Scott Wilk has been a constant advocate for SCV residents since his election to public office, whether it was a seat on the Santa Clarita Community College District or a seat in the state’s Capitol, where he’s served in both the Assembly and the Senate.

Despite being a member of the minority party in Sacramento — actually, he is the leader of the state’s Republic Caucus —Wilk has never been afraid to hold truth to power or call for more transparen-

Scott Wilk

cy, in trying to fix a damaged employment system that was clearly overwhelmed by the COVID-19 crisis and left millions without much-needed help or in how our budget is created, much of which is barely reviewed before being signed into law, a practice that Wilk has repeatedly criticized.

One of Wilk’s biggest attributes for his SCV constituents has been his ability to use his experience and understanding of how Sacramento operates as a way to try and have a positive impact for local families and the businesses that support them .

One of the clearest examples was his recent work as principal co-author of the Film & TV Tax Credit, a vital effort to try and bring back the thousands of jobs that have traveled out of state due to more

competitive tax subsidies. This industry’s impact in the SCV can’t be understated, as city officials estimate it brings in tens of millions of dollars each year to local coffers, in terms of not only tax revenue, but also dollars spent on wages, on-set catering and hotel nights for crews.

His work on the Aerospace Tax Credit helped attract significant jobs and investment to the region in the form of a federal contract for a new long-range bomber.

After crafting landmark legislation for the region in Senate Bill 634, which called for the formation of the SCV Water Agency that now governs the distribution of nearly every drop of water in the valley, Wilk followed up with writing 10 pieces of legislation and several resolutions this past year, on a host of topics from animal abuse to illegal

dumping to transparency in government.

In the SCV community, he’s just as well-known and seen as someone who’s always willing to answer a with a local business owner to provide a free self-defense workshop.

Wilk’s positive influence on the SCV can be seen throughout the area as he continues to serve his second four-year Senate term, following two prior terms as a member of Santa Clarita’s 38th Assembly District.

Because of his savvy from experience in Sacramento, as well as his understanding of the needs of small-business owners — having been one himself — we know the SCV is lucky to have his skill set on our side.

Santa Clarita’s Most Influential 2021 • The Signal 7

2 Kathryn Barger “Los Angeles County 5th District Supervisor Kathryn Barger helps Santa Clarita Valley residents each day as a strong, responsible leader who’s not afraid to speak out on behalf of her constituents and make tough decisions. She represents millions of people but always fights for the Santa Clarita Valley.”

— Richard Budman Signal Publisher/Owner County Supervisor Kathryn Barger has worked as an incredible advocate for SCV residents, even though she tasked with representing more than 2 million Angelenos in the 5th District, nearly two dozen cities in Los Angeles and more than 2,500 square miles.

Barger’s advocacy and work for her SCV constituents are why she was resoundingly sent back for a second term to the Board of Supervisors, as well as having served as its chair.

Her ability to build bridges and secure resources are a big reason why the community now has a year-

round shelter operated by Bridge to Home to help some of its residents during times when they need help the most.

Speaking of when residents need help the most, Barger’s work once again as chair of the Board of Supervisors in 2020 during the pandemic demonstrated the importance of having a strong leader in a time of crisis.

Barger was consistently the voice of reason and calm in a year that saw public safety policy, a pandemic and protests all create significant concern.

Her commitment to taking care of the residents of the 5th District is also demonstrated in her calls for fiscally smart decision-making, always mindful of the fact that her taxpaying constituents ultimately bear the costs of all the board’s choices.

Barger is always there for the SCV.

8 · Santa Clarita’s Most Influential 2021 • The Signal

3 Ken Striplin “Few have done as much as Santa Clarita City Manager Ken Striplin to make this city the amazing, safe and productive community it is. His influence can be seen in almost all aspects of Santa Clarita life, from our public safety to its business-friendly reputation.”

— Richard Budman Signal Publisher/Owner Santa Clarity City Manager Ken Striplin once again admirably led the city through a myriad of challenges while maintaining its reputation as one of the best places to live.

His experience and understanding of the community come from having been a part of the city’s government for more than 25 years, rising through the ranks and having worked in leadership positions for every city department in the process.

Striplin has played a vital role in the city’s success through his leadership of an award-winning city staff.

Perhaps one of his most important roles is the way he successfully man-

ages the partnerships Santa Clarita relies on with Los Angeles County, which have consistently helped bring new and state-of-the-art facilities to the area, such as Fire Station 150 on Golden Valley Road, as well as the brand-new Sheriff’s station just down the street. These brandnew resources fit the high expectations residents have for public safety in Santa Clarita.

In the last couple of years especially, Santa Clarita has faced challenges and we’ve seen the city staff rise to the occasion with smart and creative challenges, whether it’s making sure the city is approving responsible, community-friendly developments and projects to reimagining city codes and regulations to help businesses operate safely and stay operational during quarantine.

In addition to being a leader, Striplin donates his time to a number of nonprofits, including the Michael Hoefflin Foundation for Children’s Cancer and the Santa Clarita Valley YMCA.

Santa Clarita’s Most Influential 2021 • The Signal 9

4

5

6

Larry Rasmussen

Mike Garcia

Laurene Weste

“Developer Larry Rasmussen of Spirit Properties has helped shape the Santa Clarita Valley with his professional accomplishments creating a legacy that will last forever. He has also made generous donations to most if not all the non-profits in the SCV, but one of his greatest qualities is that he’s never one to take credit or make a big deal out of his giving to the community.”

— Richard Budman Signal Publisher/Owner

“Congressman Mike Garcia has been a strong advocate for our community after his election to the 25th Congressional District. He understands what’s important to our valley.”

— Richard Budman Signal Publisher/Owner

“Councilwoman Laurene Weste is a big part of why the city of Santa Clarita is such a great place to live, work and raise a family. Her conservation efforts and work for open space are something that will be enjoyed by residents for generations.”

— Richard Budman Signal Publisher/Owner

Larry Rasmussen, who owns Spirit Properties, has created a legacy in the Santa Clarita Valley of projects that will be enjoyed by families for generations. From the development of Centre Pointe Business Park to the William S. Hart Union High School District’s latest state-of-theart addition, Castaic High, to facilities at College of the Canyons’ two campuses, Rasmussen’s influence and accomplishments can be seen just about everywhere in the SCV, and in parts of Ventura County, as well. In both cases, his investment and support have come back tenfold in benefit to the surrounding neighborhoods and the whole community.

Beyond the Hart district and College of the Canyons, there are a number of community organizations that have benefitted from the generosity of Rasmussen, who’s also been a significant supporter of the Bella Vida Senior Center, which supports seniors, and the WiSH Foundation, which supports junior high and high school education. Rasmussen has helped develop millions of square feet of real estate from Canyon Country to Castaic with a standard of excellence of which SCV residents can always be proud.

10 · Santa Clarita’s Most Influential 2021 • The Signal

Since being elected to represent the 25th Congressional District, Representative Mike Garcia, R-Santa Clarita, has helped craft dozens of pieces of legislation to support the families, businesses, veterans, public safety and health of the Santa Clarita Valley.

Garcia always makes time for his SCV constituents, whether he’s speaking with a panel of Latino business leaders for the Santa Clarita Valley Chamber of Commerce’s Hispanic Heritage Month event or answering questions and updating residents at one of his town halls.

Garcia quickly defined his style of leadership as one who’s not afraid to speak out in order to stand up for what he believes in, which he demonstrated during his recent efforts to address concerns he had with the U.S. troop withdrawal in Afghanistan. An ardent supporter of our military, Garcia has authored or sponsored a number of bills that have supported the military, such as the Military Spouse Licensing Relief Act of 2021, which makes it easier for military spouses to transfer their professional licenses when relocating.

He also supported local public safety interests with the FIRE Act, which directs the Administrator of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration to maintain a program that improves wildfire forecasting and detection.

Santa Clarita Mayor Pro Tem Laurene Weste has been a major advocate for Santa Clarita in the fight to prevent Elsmere Canyon from becoming a giant garbage dump, in the fight against developing significant portions of the open space that surrounds the city, in the fight to make Soledad Canyon the site of a massive sand-and-gravel mining operation and, in general, someone who’s always fought with Santa Clarita’s best interests in mind.

Preservation has been a major focus for Weste, and not just in the countless votes she’s logged in favor of expanding the city’s greenbelt, but also in the way she’s worked to preserve the city’s colorful and impactful history, from Mentryville, the early boom town, to her involvement in the Santa Monica Mountains Conservancy.

Her wide-ranging influence in the SCV is seen in her support of the city’s open space efforts and her support for the Santa Clarita Valley Committee on Aging, which runs the Bella Vida Santa Clarita Valley Senior Center. The fivetime mayor has also put countless hours into her community’s revitalization effort for Old Town Newhall, which has made a major difference in a neighborhood that continues to add new businesses to the area.

Santa Clarita’s Most Influential 2021 • The Signal 11

7

8

9

Cameron Smyth

Suzette Valladares

Don Kimball

“Whether in Santa Clarita in Council Chambers or in the Legislature in Sacramento, Cameron Smyth has shown why he’s been a trusted leader for Santa Clarita residents for more than 20 years, and his experience with business and legislative leaders has been an asset for residents.”

— Richard Budman Signal Publisher/Owner

“Assemblywoman Suzette Valladares’ rise from a working parent and entrepreneur to the state’s Capitol was a rapid one and, a successful first year in the Legislature, is one of the many reasons why I expect she could be on the 51 list for a while.”

— Richard Budman Signal Publisher/Owner

“FivePoint continues to play a major role in the Santa Clarita Valley’s development, and likely will for years as its latest expansion of Valencia continues to take shape. The future of the SCV is in good hands with business leaders such as Don Kimball to help guide the valley’s growth.”

— Richard Budman Signal Publisher/Owner

Since becoming the city of Santa Clarita’s youngest ever member of City Council at age 28 in 2000, Councilman Cameron Smyth has been a mainstay in SCV politics, serving four terms as mayor since his first election, and then going on to represent Santa Clarita in the state’s capitol. Smyth’s ability and experience as a leader in the SCV were on display again when voters sent him back to the dais in 2016, after several terms in the state Assembly.

In the state Assembly, he was praised for the same kind of moderate, reasonable approach to government that’s made him popular with Santa Clarita voters in four separate elections, even being named chair of the Assembly’s Local Government Committee, despite being a member of the minority party in the Legislature.

Smyth led the city as mayor last year through a tough time for the city, which addressed a number of protests, as well as the life-threatening consequences of a global pandemic, which created new challenges and greater uncertainty on an almost daily basis. In addition to his work as a vice president of state affairs for Molina Healthcare, Smyth remains very active in the community with his wife and their three children.

12 · Santa Clarita’s Most Influential 2021 • The Signal

Assemblywoman Suzette Valladares gained her first job experience at a place relatable to many of her constituents, Six Flag Magic Mountain, before going on to serve as a district representative for the 25th Congressional District.

Valladares has always made family values a priority for her work, and when she left working as a part of Congress, she took a job as executive director of Southern California Autism Speaks. She also worked in the family business, following in her late mother’s footsteps as CEO of Little Steps of Faith, a faith-based nonprofit preschool for underserved families in the San Fernando and Santa Clarita valleys.

Valladares’ care for her constituents and their families can be seen in a number of her legislative efforts, including bills aimed at helping foster children, a sales tax break for parents and a bill to protect victims of domestic violence.

However, she’s also supported development and small businesses as vice chair of the Arts, Entertainment, Sports, Tourism and Internet Media Committee, and as a member of the committees that work on the state’s budget and higher education.

FivePoint’s latest development in the Santa Clarita Valley, an expansion of the popular Valencia community, will provide much-needed housing in an area where there’s been so much demand due to their success in creating high quality communities.

Their latest development comes from years of analysis, planning and outreach with residents, an effort led at the local level by Don Kimball.

As a business leader who’s been a part of the SCV’s largest developer for more than 30 years, first at Newhall Land & Farming and now at FivePoint, Kimball’s impact can be seen throughout the SCV. His financial acumen also has been an asset for the developer in a competitive marketplace.

Kimball makes a point of giving back to the community, through his support as a partner for one of the SCV’s most important organizations, Henry Mayo Newhall Hospital, which Kimball has served on the board for more than a dozen years, in addition to numerous committees and fundraising efforts.

Congratulates Santa Clarita’s

The City of Santa Clarita is proud to congratulate those named to the Signal’s Top 51 and would like to thank you for all the work you do in our community!

TOP

51

Thank you for your SERVICE. You make the COMMUNITY a better place to live and work.

You bring VALUE to the lives you touch.

SERVICE. COMMUNITY. VALUE. yourSCVwater.com

Santa Clarita’s Most Influential 2021 • The Signal 13

10

11

12

Dianne Van Hook

Matt Stone

Joe Messina

“Since taking the helm of College of the Canyons more than 30 years ago, Dr. Dianne G. Van Hook has transformed COC into a recognized leader in education for community colleges throughout the state.”

— Richard Budman Signal Publisher/Owner

“As leader of the Santa Clarita Valley Water Agency, General Manager Matt Stone leads the organizations responsible for managing our most precious resource, and his valued leadership is capable of guiding the agency through any challenges or opportunities that could arise.”

— Richard Budman Signal Publisher/Owner

“In the last 14 years, Joe Messina has been a part of the Santa Clarita Valley’s largest school district, the William S. Hart Union High School District, helping it grow while also helping to keep its scores and reputation as an area that has some of the best teachers and programs available.”

— Richard Budman Signal Publisher/Owner

In terms of community impact, it’s hard to estimate just how much College of the Canyons impacts the Santa Clarita Valley, or the extent of the benefit residents receive from having such a versatile resource. It promotes job growth and economic development in a number of ways, whether it’s offering new career training opportunities, advanced coursework that helps everyone from high school students to those seeking professional development and partnerships with organizations like the SCV Economic Development Corp. that result in attracting new businesses and more jobs to the area.

Van Hook’s leadership also has helped bring the area a second community college campus in Canyon Country, grown the number of programs and courses to a seemingly endless list of options and made higher learning so much more accessible to so many more people in the community.

Whether it was broadening COC’s everexpanding online options to help students during the pandemic or making sure there were ways for students to get affordable textbooks, Van Hook’s guidance and leadership have been critical in so many areas for the Santa Clarita Valley.

14 · Santa Clarita’s Most Influential 2021 • The Signal

Since joining the Castaic Lake Water Agency, Matt Stone has helped guide the process to create the agency that’s now the SCV Water Agency. The process involved a series of mergers and partnerships that included several governing boards and a lengthy outreach campaign to communicate with the public about the legislation that created one agency to manage all of the SCV’s water supply.

While the Southern California region is constantly in danger of dealing with drought conditions, Stone’s guidance of the agency always makes sure the SCV has an adequate water supply for residents and commercial developments.

Stone’s reputation has placed him in statewide positions of responsibility, including a spot on the board of the State Water Contractors, a nonprofit that represents State Water Project contracting agencies. He’s also been chair of the Urban Water Institute, which focuses on education for elected officials.

How our water supply is managed will continue to grow in importance as the SCV keeps developing, adding new homes and businesses to the community, making Stone’s importance sure to grow in the years to come.

The William S. Hart Union High School District consistently earns high marks among schools in California and nationwide, and its governing board is a huge part of that. Joe Messina has helped guide the district through a number of tough decisions over the years, helped it grow and expand its offerings and pushed administration officials to create new opportunities for students.

Messina has made it a point to support career technical education programs for students who will benefit from workforce education and professional opportunities while in high school.

Perhaps the biggest legacy from his more than decade of leadership on the board is that he helped open the state-of-the-art Castaic High, which is expected to serve and support Santa Clarita Valley students for years to come.

An SCV family man, small-business owner and leader in education, Messina uses his reallife experience and a common-sense approach to help and encourage students to take any path possible to pursue their goals in education.

13

14

15

Justin Diez

John Musella

Bill Miranda

“The Santa Clarita Valley, much like the rest of the world, had one of the roughest years on record in 2020, but one of the biggest reasons why it stays one of the safest places you can live and raise a family is the work of SCV Sheriff’s Station Capt. Justin Diez.”

— Richard Budman Signal Publisher/Owner

“The Santa Clarita Valley has a diverse, growing and vibrant business community that is a point of pride for the community, and John Musella is someone who represents or works with practically all of its significant business interests through his company and business advocacy.”

— Richard Budman Signal Publisher/Owner

“Santa Clarita Mayor Bill Miranda has been a business leader in the community for years, but his recent ascent to City Council shows that his dedication and passion for his hometown extends beyond the boardroom with a great sense of leadership and civic responsibility.”

— Richard Budman Signal Publisher/Owner

Last year seemed to be one for the books in terms of threats to public safety and, for many, it was a bit harder to feel safe when you went out.

Crime surged in many places, even as communities throughout the country protested their local law enforcement agencies, including in the Santa Clarita Valley.

But in the midst of it all Capt. Justin Diez took the helm last March, leading outreach and a community message at a time when it very well may have been needed most. The first-ofits-kind clergy council is just one of the many ways he’s sought to create community engagement, including the always-popular Coffee with a Cop meetings, where he and several deputies sit down and not only talk to, but also listen to members of the community, addressing their questions and concerns. Diez has served in a number of different capacities for the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department before being named to the SCV’s top law enforcement official. This experience makes him well-suited to hold one of the area’s most important jobs — keeping residents safe.

John Musella continues to be a well-known, well-respected leader for the Santa Clarita Valley business community, a role he’s played in a number of different ways over the years. As principal for The Musella Group, he’s represented companies such as Lennar, Starbucks and Westfield to name a few. He also manages partnerships with just about every business-advocacy organization you can think of, including the SCV Chamber of Commerce, which he was instrumental in making it a force again for the community.

Whether he’s helping out a client with his expansive network or advocating on behalf of the Santa Clarita Valley’s interests in front of a group of elected officials, Musella always represents the best interest of his hometown and the Santa Clarita Valley. Business leaders like Musella are a big reason why the SCV is in such a great position to recover from what was for many a very difficult 2020. His proven ability to get results can be seen in the progress he’s helped the area’s business community make in creating jobs and developments that improve our quality of life.

Santa Clarita Mayor Bill Miranda has been a valued voice of common sense and reason from the dais, someone who’s continually impressed and repeatedly shown why he’s earned a vote of confidence from his constituents. Miranda was a leader for the SCV’s Latino Chamber of Commerce, and then helped lead a smooth transition when the organization merged with the SCV Chamber of Commerce to ultimately form the Latino Business Alliance. The LBA has been an active and useful network of advocates for Latino business interests, and one that’s enjoyed a wider reach and relevance since creating a new community partnership.

Miranda also demonstrated himself to be a thoughtful speaker, having to deal with a number of different types of controversy, from county and state mandates to national protests that have shown up on Santa Clarita’s doorstep. Time and again when tested Miranda shows what a capable and qualified mayor he is. He is a n entrepreneur, veteran and family man in the community.

Santa Clarita’s Most Influential 2021 • The Signal 15

16

17

18

Holly Schroeder

Hunt Braly

Jason Gibbs

“Holly Schroeder has been a huge part of the Santa Clarita Valley business community’s success since she’s joined it as head of the SCV Economic Development Corp. in 2013. Her leadership of that organization has been a true asset for the entire SCV.” — Richard Budman Signal Publisher/Owner

“Hunt Braly has been a supporter of nonprofits, business and community development for years in the Santa Clarita Valley, in addition to being a litigator and advocate who understands — as well as anyone you can think of — how progress takes place.”

— Richard Budman Signal Publisher/Owner

Holly Schroeder, president and CEO of the SCV Economic Development Corp has been instrumental in growing, retaining and attracting investment from inside and outside the SCV. Under her guidance, the SCVEDC has helped companies such as Sunkist, MechanixWear and Amazon, among many, many others find a home in the SCV with space for operations and growth. These companies help bring millions of dollars in revenue to the SCV in terms of tax dollars, jobs and investment.

Each year, business leaders from throughout Los Angeles County, as well as visitors from Sacramento, gather in the SCV to listen to the SCV Economic Outlook Forecast that the EDC puts together to update everyone on what’s going on in the SCV business community. Through her work in that respect, Schroeder is constantly touting the benefits of the SCV’s businessfriendly environment and looking to improve the climate for businesses in the region, which she’s an experienced veteran at, having spent about eight years at the regional chapter of the Building Industry Association before coming to the SCV.

Hunt Braly is a partner in the Santa Clarita Valley’s largest and most influential firm, leading the Land Use and Governmental Affairs practice groups for Poole Shaffery & Koegle, LLP. The projects Braly has worked on include developments in Sand Canyon, Golden Valley Ranch’s commercial and residential development, Henry Mayo Newhall Hospital and Vista Canyon Ranch, to name a few. He also gives his clients advice and information about land use, entitlement and other governmental affairs throughout Santa Clarita, Los Angeles and Ventura counties, as well as Sacramento.

Braly’s reputation is known throughout the state as someone who knows how to get things done, whether he’s advocating for more responsible rules to help build more affordable housing to supporting a community-based nonprofit like Bridge to Home. He also uses his considerable connections to help projects like Homes 4 Families, which creates more affordable housing options for families in a time when the lack of available homes has created a statewide crisis in California.

“Santa Clarita City Councilman Jason Gibbs has been an ardent advocate for the city since being elected to the Santa Clarita City Council in 2018, and the city is lucky to have him as a steward as it looks forward to responsible, successful growth for the future of our community.”

— Richard Budman Signal Publisher/Owner

16 · Santa Clarita’s Most Influential 2021 • The Signal

Santa Clarita City Councilman Jason Gibbs campaigned on responsibly managing the city’s growth, promoting public safety and making the city the best place possible to raise a family. It’d be hard to argue he hasn’t done just that, with Santa Clarita remaining one of the safest cities in the nation, with developments any community could be proud of, as well as consistently high-scoring schools.

While dealing with the global health crisis, the city was forced to come up with a number of creative solutions to support businesses and keep residents safe. Keeping the city’s COVID-19 numbers and its unemployment figures always lower than our neighbors has been no easy feat as the challenges of 2020 carry into 2022 — but residents are lucky to have a leader like Gibbs on its council.

From supporting local nonprofits to keeping dialogue open with local business leaders, Gibbs has been a representative who understands the community’s values and is willing to give his time and support to uphold them.

ONE APP DELIVERS SANTA CLARITA

Local

to your phone

- NEWS - TRAFFIC - VIDEO - WEATHER

Congratulates Santa Clarita’s Top 51 Most Influential People

Get Breaking News Right on Your Phone Download in the

LEADERSHIP

APP STORE or GOOGLE PLAY

starts with learning

search SignalSCV

for more information go to Signalscv.com/app

visit

canyons.edu

Congratulations to all who have been named Santa Clarita’s Most Influential People of 2021 Santa Clarita’s Most Influential 2021 • The Signal 17

19

20

21

Roger Seaver

Carrie Lujan

Randy Wrage

“As head of Henry Mayo Newhall Hospital for the last two decades, CEO Roger Seaver has watched the hospital grow and succeed right alongside the city of Santa Clarita, largely a direct result of his calm and considerate leadership.“ — Richard Budman Signal Publisher/Owner

“The city of Santa Clarita’s reputation extends far beyond the SCV and the state of California, it’s consistently listed among the safest and best cities in the nation, and city spokeswoman Carrie Lujan is a major reason why so many are aware of its stellar reputation.”

— Richard Budman Signal Publisher/Owner

In the last 18 months, Henry Mayo Newhall Hospital has shown time and again why it’s such an important part of the fabric of our community. More than just a hospital, an important employer and major component of the region’s partnership of health care resources, Henry Mayo shows time and again why it’s a very part of what makes the Santa Clarita Valley so special, with its programs, outreach, opportunities and, of course, it’s life-saving services, as well as those that just improve our quality of life, day in and day out — a vast system of resources and support all led by one Roger Seaver.

Seaver’s stability at the top — he recently marked his 20th year as CEO in typically understated fashion as is Seaver’s style — is a testament to the success he’s had in overseeing a number of expansion efforts to benefit the SCV’s health and welfare, as well as the community’s confidence in his ability to lead. His professional ties also include serving as a former chair of the Southern California Hospital Association, which counts 100-plus hospitals in six counties, and as the 2013 chair of the California Hospital Association, which has 400 member hospitals.

City Communications Director Carrie Lujan was recently recgonized as the 2021 Communicator of the Year by the City-County Communications & Marketing Association (3CMA).

While media people are not allowed on the list, overseeing the city’s relationship with the media is only a fraction of what Lujan does on behalf of the city.

In addition to co-hosting of SCVTV’s “Community Corner,” Lujan supervises all city groundbreakings and grand openings for projects; hosts the annual State of the City luncheon event; manages the City’s streetlight pole and paseo bridge banner program; writes speeches for city officials; provides marketing/advertising support to city divisions and programs, including Old Town Newhall, Recycling, Capital Projects and Transit, among others. In fact, there isn’t a lot that takes place in the city of Santa Clarita that isn’t impacted by Lujan’s public relations and marketing savvy.

The city not only provides a host of programs and services to help make life in Santa Clarita great, it also has one of the best people around to let people know about how great those services are, and the best ways to access them.

“Randy Wrage of Wrage Inc. has developed and managed a number of successful projects in the Santa Clarita Valley, and he never forgets to support his local community with generous giving to nonprofit organizations ranging from the Boys & Girls Club, and Bridge to Home, to the Senior Center.”

— Richard Budman Signal Publisher/Owner

18 · Santa Clarita’s Most Influential 2021 • The Signal

Randy Wrage manages a number of important roles for Spirit Properties, including the supervision of new business opportunities, planning, entitlements, financing and construction, which has seen him play a role in a number of important projects, such as Castaic High School and Centre Pointe Parkway’s business park.

For the former, Wrage managed to navigate a countless number of rules and regulatory agencies to get Castaic a state-of-the-art high school it’s sought for decades. The development at Centre Pointe Parkway is also a perfect example of the type of well-planned, conveniently located business development that helped add jobs and stores to our community.

Wrage also has shown himself to be a leader of the nonprofit community, being a part of the leadership for the College of the Canyons Foundation, the Santa Clarita Valley Chamber of Commerce, the Henry Mayo Newhall Hospital Foundation, the SCV Boys & Girls Club, Bridge to Home and the SCV Senior Center Foundation. Through his support of nonprofit organizations and community resources, Wrage has helped make the SCV a better place to live.

Congratulations & Thank You! Each outstanding Top 51 honoree has served and strengthened the Santa Clarita Valley.

@SupervisorBarger @KathrynBarger @SupervisorKathrynBarger KathrynBarger.LACounty.gov

Congratulations to Santa Clarita’s Most Influential of 2021

from

Santa Clarita’s Most Influential 2021 • The Signal 19

22

23

24

Jason Crawford

Joe Caso

Mike Kuhlman

“Jason Crawford’s business leadership and understanding of the community has helped residents in countless ways over the last 15 years, but namely in keeping Santa Clarita’s reputation as a business-friendly, family-friendly fiscally-responsible place to live.”

— Richard Budman Signal Publisher/Owner

“Joe Caso is a community-first businessman who gives back to support youth activities, he is also a family man who has roots in the Santa Clarita Valley and truly cares about where and how he does business and tries to make it a better place for everyone.”

— Richard Budman Signal Publisher/Owner

“Since being announced as the new Superintendent of the William S. Hart Union High School District Mike Kuhlman has done a commendable job leading the Santa Clarita Valley’s largest school district, keeping its scores high and affording local students the best opportunities.”

— Richard Budman Signal Publisher/Owner

An important figure in how Santa Clarita retains, attracts and helps businesses grow, as economic director, Jason Crawford has been indispensable for the city. Crawford’s full title is actually planning, marketing and economic development manager for the city.

A California Institute of the Arts alum, he originally came to work at Santa Clarita’s Film Office more than a dozen years ago, and he now leads Santa Clarita’s for all of our business community and residents.

His influence can be especially seen over the last year, when the city needed strong leadership while the world faced a global health crisis and Crawford was given nearly impossible tasks but yet consistently able to help craft policies that saved a number of businesses. It’s no surprise that the city of Santa Clarita’s employment numbers quickly improved as soon as the Safer at Home order was lifted. Whether it’s creating more space for restaurants to safely serve patients or leading the charge to bring back filming, one of the city’s major economic drivers, Santa Clarita residents are lucky to have a leader like Crawford on staff at City Hall.

Longtime auto row business owner Joe Caso, owner of Frontier Toyota demonstrates how much he cares for the community each year when he hosts the annual Frontier Toyota/Henry Mayo “Drive Safe” Golf Classic, a nonprofit event that raises hundreds of thousands of Dollars every year for Henry Mayo Newhall Hospital.

Kuhlman’s career with the Hart School District began in 1997 when he was hired to teach social studies at Saugus High School. He also served as a mentor-teacher and Advanced Placement teacher. By 2004, he was the Rancho Pico Junior High School interim principal. In 2012, Kuhlman was named the principal of Canyon High School, and held that position until December 2014 when he was offered the assistant superintendent of educational services district role.

His rise through the ranks of the Hart district reveals a passion for, and also a dedication to, serving SCV junior high and high school students, exactly the type of character you’d want at the helm. His leadership has helped SCV students achieve one-of-a-kind experiences such as live conversations with astronauts at the International Space Station, as well as earn college units while in high school.

Kuhlman also has succeeded in spite of unprecedented obstacles for the SCV, such as the tragic school shooting and the global pandemic that temporarily closed down every campus — but no matter what the challenge, he’s proven himself a talented administrator

20 · Santa Clarita’s Most Influential 2021 • The Signal

The money raised at the fun, all-day golf event represents life-saving help for our local hospital’s emergency room services and programs.

One of Caso’s lasting and most significant contributions is also an annual reminder for the community to stay safe behind the wheel, the White Ribbon program he started here in Santa Clarita. Through the White Ribbon program, thousands of teens are reminded each year of the importance of making safe decisions behind the wheel, as the white ribbons are a reminder to everyone about those whose lives were cut short by car and truck crashes.

Caso’s dedication and care for the future are part of the great example he sets for others in the SCV.

Congratulations to all

51

of Santa Clarita’s Most Influential People A special thanks to the 51 recipients for making a positive difference in the lives of all the citizens in Santa Clarita.

— Michael Berger

Santa Clarita’s Most Influential 2021 • The Signal 21

25

26

27

John Shaffery

Don Fleming

Marlee Lauffer

“John Shaffery of Poole Shaffery & Koegle is a leader at Santa Clarita Valley’s largest and most influential firm, which perennially earns him a place on this list for all of the important work he’s responsible for, from his advocacy, lobbying and accomplishments in the courtroom.”

— Richard Budman Signal Publisher/Owner

“Valencia Acura owner Don Fleming is a business leader, generous philanthropist and a popular entrepreneur whose leadership and compassion have always been something that his friends, family and business associates in the Santa Clarita Valley have been able to count on.”

— Richard Budman Signal Publisher/Owner

“Henry Mayo Newhall Hospital is an integral part of the health of the Santa Clarita Valley, and one of the biggest reasons for that is the tireless effort of Marlee Lauffer, who leads a number of partnerships for Henry Mayo and is also a big reason why the hospital is so well-respected.”

— Richard Budman Signal Publisher/Owner

As co-founder of Poole Shaffery & Koegle, John Shaffery helped create the law firm headquartered in Valencia, which first opened in downtown Los Angeles in 1998, before moving to the Santa Clarita Valley not long afterward.

For more than 20 years, the firm has grown and succeeded, serving the local business community in many ways.

Perhaps the most publicly visible sign of the firm’s service and advocacy for the SCV business community is its annual employment law luncheon, in which key members of the Poole Shaffery & Koegle team share important updates with business leaders on changes in state law that affect employers throughout the state.

Shaffery brings more than a quarter-century of civil litigation experience to support the firm’s clients, and has successfully tried cases throughout the state of California with verdicts in the last six years in four different counties.

He focuses on product liability claims, large loss and catastrophic claims, trucking and transportation claims, professional liability matters, toxic torts and labor and employment claims.

It’s hard to picture what the Santa Clarita Valley’s Auto Row would look like without Don Fleming, and the same for its professional group, the SCV Auto Dealers Association, which he’s in charge of. Auto row is a huge revenue driver for the area, with its revenue supporting things like the parks that surround its lots, and the many city programs we enjoy. The success of Don Fleming’s role as a leader and ambassador of the organization can be seen in how the city and the auto dealers support one another year after year.

Don Fleming’s success also allows him to give frequently to support his favorite nonprofit causes, which include the Henry Mayo Newhall Hospital Foundation, the SCV Child & Family Center, the SCV Chamber of Commerce and the SCV Boys & Girls Club, among the many other local groups that he helps out. One of his more significant recognitions from the nonprofit world came recently from College of the Canyons, which gave him and his late wife, Cheri, the Silver Spur award, the college’s highest honor for supporters.

For Marlee Lauffer, president of the Henry Mayo Newhall Foundation and vice president of marketing and communications for the hospital, there have been countless unprecedented challenges thrown her way due to a global health crisis. Yet Henry Mayo stands improved and more ready than ever each day to face new challenges with the full support of the community behind it thanks in large part to the messaging, organization and support created by Lauffer.

In the last five years, Lauffer watched the hospital add a number of new resources, including the state of the art $14 million patient tower, which added dozens of beds and additional help for the hospital.

Lauffer’s support for the nonprofit community extends well beyond the hospital’s walls, as she also has held a variety of leadership roles for SCV-based nonprofit organizations, including the Zonta Club of the Santa Clarita Valley. One of the noted consistencies in both organizations she’s been involved in has been generosity and support.

22 · Santa Clarita’s Most Influential 2021 • The Signal

28

29

30

Stephanie English

Mark Blazer

Michael Berger

“Los Angeles County officials work to provide a number of services for Santa Clarita Valley residents day in and day out, and Stephanie English, field deputy for county Supervisor Kathryn Barger, is always there to help out if anyone has a question or a concern.”

— Richard Budman Signal Publisher/Owner

“Rabbi Mark Blazer has been a steady leader for the Santa Clarita Valley for years, a man whose respect and influence extends throughout the religious and secular communities and beyond. He always uses his influence to bring positive forces together and build partnerships to help the SCV.” — Richard Budman Signal Publisher/Owner

“Michael Berger is a great leader on our local community college’s governing board and an example of what it means to be someone who gives back to their community with his leadership as a board member of the Santa Clarita Valley Child & Family Center.”

— Richard Budman Signal Publisher/Owner

Field Deputy Stephanie English has served the residents of the SCV in L.A. County’s 5th District going back to her time with the Los Angeles County Fire Department. English spent countless hours as the voice of calm during some of the SCV’s worst natural disasters, someone who could be relied on is a crisis situation to help with the delivery of resources.

English has been vital to public safety outreach for years in the SCV, whether it was helping with the Great Shakeout, Fourth of July fireworks safety or talking about the Ready! Set! Go! Campaign. English also supported the American Heart Association’s efforts by helping to raise awareness about proper techniques for CPR. Always an excellent representative for Supervisor Barger when called upon to work in our community, English’s skills in communication and outreach with media outlets like The Signal to make sure residents are aware of county resources available are invaluable to the community, whether she’s helping people in Agua Dulce, Stevenson Ranch or Castaic or any other number of communities in the 5th District.

Rabbi Mark Blazer has served as the spiritual leader of Temple Beth Ami for more than 20 years, but he also serves as a community leader in a broader sense for all of the Santa Clarita Valley. As president of the Jewish Life Foundation, he’s an ambassador for Jewish culture, creating educational programs for Jewish Life Television, which is the only international network of its kind for Jewish programming.

Blazer also sought to create educational opportunities for Santa Clarita Valley students through Albert Einstein Academy, which helped a number of students succeed in college.

He’s also served as a chaplain for the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department, and served as a chaplain for the California Department of Corrections for nearly a decade, serving across the state of California.

Whether he’s delivering a sobering message that the community needs to hear after a tragic event or spreading holiday cheer in a multi-religion community gathering, Blazer is always there when the occasion calls for a leader. Blazer carries on the proud family tradition for JLTV, as well.

Michael Berger, a senior vice president at Morgan Stanley and family wealth adviser for The Berger Group, has been a part of the SCV community since he graduated from College of the Canyons, which he would later go on to help lead. The Berger Group provides clients with a wide range of strategies and services to individuals, families, business owners and foundations looking for wealth management advice — helping to set up future generations for success in the SCV and beyond.

Berger has been playing a similar role in setting up future success for the last dozen years or so as an elected member of the Santa Clarita Community College District, which oversees both College of the Canyons campuses. Berger was instrumental in the effort to create the Canyon Country campus as a 20-year member and past president for the COC Foundation Board of Directors, too.

Berger’s generosity and leadership are reasons why he’s earned awards like COC’s Silver Spur and the SCV Man of the Year for his nonprofit involvement, as well as with groups like the SCV Rotary.

Santa Clarita’s Most Influential 2021 • The Signal 23

31

32

33

Nola Aronson

Linda Storli-Koontz

Robert Newman

“Nola Aronson’s presence in the community has not only helped countless people hear again through her practice, Advanced Audiology, but she’s also been able to give back to the Santa Clarita valley through her philanthropy for the place she calls home.”

— Richard Budman Signal Publisher/Owner

“Linda Storli’s passion for education, children and the future of our area in general are just a part of what makes her such a great advocate for education on the Santa Clarita Valley’s William S. Hart Union High School District.”

— Richard Budman Signal Publisher/Owner

“Robert Newman, director of Santa Clarita Public Works, has been responsible for our city having some of the best facilities, infrastructure and resources around thanks to his dedication and excellent work being perfect matches for our city’s ambitious planning efforts.”

— Richard Budman Signal Publisher/Owner

William S. Hart Union High School District board member Linda Storli-Koontz has devoted countless hours in the classroom at Canyon High School helping students learn and grow.

Now as a member of the high school district’s governing board, she’s been able to expand that reach considerably, helping classroom policy, student access and program availability, to name a few of the areas. In addition to her support for local junior high and high school students in the Hart district, Storli-Koontz also claims involvement in numerous events aimed at community building and support, including her help in making the annual Fourth of July parade in Santa Clarita what it is today.

Storli-Koontz’ community support has been a part of Santa Clarita for several decades, whether it was through her lesson plans as a former teacher, as chair of the parade or as a former member of the city of Santa Clarita Parks Commission. Her no-nonsense approach makes her a refreshing and honest voice for local students, school staff and parents.

Robert Newman and the city of Santa Clarita staff have created top-notch facilities for local residents, like the Newhall and the Canyon Country community centers, and those are just a fraction of the multitude of projects that he’s overseen, but also two perfect examples of how his work has such a tremendous impact on residents’ quality of life.

Including such important, every-day multimillion projects many of us take advantage of regularly, like the Cross-Valley Connector and the Golden Valley Bridge Widening, Newman’s efforts are not just appreciated by SCV commuters. City projects also were honored by statewide organizations as a pair of 2020 capital improvement projects were recognized by the Outstanding Local Streets and Roads Awards Program.

The awards recognized the city’s commitment to safe and well-paved roads, as well as its use of technology in upgrading its transportation system with automated traffic signals.

As the director of the department in charge of maintaining and upgrading the city’s infrastructure and public facilities, Newman continues to be an important part of what makes Santa Clarita a great place to live.

Advanced Audiology owner Nola Aronson is not only a business leader who cares a great deal about her clients and employees, she also clearly cares a great deal about her community. There’s rarely a local community nonprofit event that she’s not there to support in one way or another, including organizations like Henry Mayo Newhall Hospital, Circle of Hope and the Santa Clarita Valley Boys & Girls Club, which she’s supported for years. Through her professional experience, she’s also involved with the state and national Academy of Audiology, American Hearing Aid Association, the American Speech, Language and Hearing Association and a number of others.

Aronson is well-known in the community for her success in business, as well as how she helps make this a better place for us all to live, work and raise our families. She does this not only through nonprofit support, but also through her work with organizations like the SCV Chamber of Commerce and the Valley Industry Association, both of which have recognized her past contributions, as well as the Circle of Hope and the SCV Bella Vida Senior Center.

24 · Santa Clarita’s Most Influential 2021 • The Signal

All of us at Kellar Davis congratulate those who serve and contribute to our community and have been chosen the Top 51.

Congratulations WE TRIM YOUR TREES RIGHT!

to the Top 51

#1 COMPLETE TREE SERVICE

• Removals • Pruning • Trimming • Stump Grinding

661-255-0297 or online @ www.tiptoparborists.com check our website for discounts & reviews

Bob Kellar 661.510.0987 16670 Soledad Cyn Rd.

ST CONTR LIC # 821770

Jim Lewandowski ISAWC 1413 • Todd Walter ISAWC 10664A Tom Baal ISAWC 7566 • Chris Miller ISAWC 11780A

kellar@earthlink.net CalBRE#01030351

“Serving Santa Clarita Valley And Surrounding Communities With Pride Since 1974”

Bouquet Canyon Road, Valencia

WE LOVE TO HELP YOU HEAR

CONGRATULATES

SANTA CLARITA VALLEY’S MOST INFLUENTIAL PEOPLE as the Signal’s 2021

TOP 51

Award Recipients

661.367.8127 | scvadvancedaudiology.com 23822 VALENCIA BLVD. | SUITE 103 | VALENCIA | CA | 91355

Santa Clarita’s Most Influential 2021 • The Signal 25

34

35

36

Patrick Moody

Marsha McLean

Bill Cooper

“After one of the most challenging years in the history of health care, Henry Mayo Newhall Hospital spokesman Patrick Moody continues to be a community voice in the face of very trying circumstances for the industry and serves as a steady, calm voice amid much confusion.”

— Richard Budman Signal Publisher/Owner

“Santa Clarita City Councilwoman Marsha McLean has represented the city of Santa Clarita for nearly 20 years, almost two decades of service to the community to try and make it a cleaner, greener and safer place to live, work and raise a family.”

— Richard Budman Signal Publisher/Owner

“Santa Clarita Valley Water Agency board member Bill Cooper is someone whom the community knows can be trusted to be a steward of its most precious resource, not just because of his experience, but also because he’s shown he’s up to the job.”

— Richard Budman Signal Publisher/Owner

Henry Mayo Newhall Hospital continues to operate in overdrive in 2021 to keep our community safe, and because of the global health crisis, the messaging to those who live, work and go to school in the Santa Clarita Valley has never been more important. As spokesman for Henry Mayo Newhall Hospital, Patrick Moody is constantly out front and center to deliver important updates from our local hospital, as well as share useful outreach and ever-evolving health care-related information that supports a vibrant, productive community in a number of ways.

Moody has provided the community daily updates for more than 18 months, as a watchful community eagerly awaits new information about an ever-changing series of health protocols and advice. His demeanor, patience and professionalism provide an added calm to an otherwise chaotic environment immeasurable support to a community when it was most in need.

26 · Santa Clarita’s Most Influential 2021 • The Signal

Marsha McLean has served on the Santa Clarita City Council since 2002, having been named mayor three times during her tenure, combining her extensive background in local and federal government. McLean brings a passion for transportation, environment and business to Santa Clarita as a representative.

She’s helped the city of Santa Clarita grow and succeed , her concern starting before she even joined the council with her involvement with the fight to preserve Elsmere Canyon. That was the first of many victories she’s helped earn on behalf of the city. She’s committed herself to being an advocate for the transportation needs of our region, regularly pushing for more access for Santa Clarita Valley residents, whether that’s through trains, public transportation or better care for our roads.

As an advocate for regional transportation, McLean was a major part of creating the SCV Transportation Coalition, which was formed to help bring more transportation projects to the area. Since its formation, the group has worked to obtain more than a quarter of a billion dollars for road improvements and signal synchronization.

Bill Cooper, the immediate past president of the Santa Clarita Valley Water Agency’s governing board and current board member, after being a longtime water professional having worked for the Metropolitan Water District of Southern California for about 40 years. In his decades of experience working with water, he oversaw the operations and maintenance of all five Metropolitan Water Treatment Plants, which supply about one-half of all the water for the roughly 20 million people in Southern California. He’s also given back by serving as an adjunct professor for College of the Canyons, using his experience in managing some of the largest water-treatment facilities in the country to teach the next generation of water leaders.

Cooper has also been a longtime volunteer and governing board member for the SCV Child & Family Center, which is just one of the many local organizations he supports with his time and resources. He’s also been a nominee multiple times for the SCV Man of the Year Award, which is given out each year to leaders in the nonprofit community.

37

38

39

Wayne Crawford

Sandy Sanchez

Andrew Taban

“Wayne Crawford of Santa Clarita Concrete has been a pillar of the SCV community, responsible for not only countless school and community buildings, but also for his generous support of local nonprofit organizations and the businesses and families here.”

— Richard Budman Signal Publisher/Owner

“The Santa Clarita Valley thrives as a successful, family-friendly, business-friendly community because of developers like FivePoint and the work of their representatives like Sandy Sanchez, who cares and understands enough to create wellplanned communities for us to live.”

— Richard Budman Signal Publisher/Owner

“Andrew Taban has shown himself to be a man dedicated to improving the Santa Clarita Valley he was raised in, with his work in local organization, as well as on behalf of local residents, he’s been a constant advocate for the SCV.” — Richard Budman Signal Publisher/Owner

The future of the SCV will be shaped in large part by the plans that FivePoint holds for the community, making FivePoint’s community development director Sandy Sanchez, such an important part of the community. As a driving force in the development of outreach and marketing for FivePoint, Sanchez is more than a spokesperson for an extremely important developer, she’s also a business leader in the community. In fact, her skill in working to create a more business-friendly environment in the region was part of her role before joining FivePoint, when Sanchez was the director of government affairs for the Los Angeles/Ventura chapter of the Business Industry Association, an industry group that supports development in Southern California.

She’s also considered a leader among her colleagues, as she was named chair-elect for the Los Angeles County Business Federation, another business-advocacy group. Sanchez’ involvement also extends to the Los Angeles Economic Development Corp., on which she serves as a member of the governing board, and the SCV Chamber of Commerce, as a member of the board of directors.

While only in his mid-20s, Andrew Taban has already been involved in local politics for about 10 years, currently serving as chair of the Santa Clarita Valley Democrats and a founding chair of the SCV Young Democrats. He’s also served as a leader for the Democratic Alliance for Action, another prominent local group. His experience as a local organizer and volunteer has made him a valuable member of the team as a representative for Christy Smith in her Assembly office, where he was able to use his skills and experience to work directly with and on behalf of local residents.

In addition to his work with committees on advancing a legislative agenda, Taban also worked as an advocate for the LGBTQ+ community, working as a trainer on how to build sustainable chapters of the gay-straight alliance, as well as being a board member for the Parents and Friends of Lesbians and Gays. Taban’s work at the state and local level demonstrates a dedication to making the SCV a more inclusive place to live.

There aren’t a lot of campuses, facilities or business parks that haven’t been touched by Wayne Crawford and his business, Santa Clarita Concrete. While he’s perhaps best known in nonprofit circles for his work with Carousel Ranch, which provides equine therapy for children with special needs, his philanthropy and influence have benefited numerous other local nonprofits and resources, such as the SCV Boys & Girls Club and Henry Mayo Newhall Hospital.

Crawford’s leadership also helped in the building of the College of the Canyons’ state-of-theart University Center, part of why COC bestowed Crawford with the Silver Spur Award.

The Crawford family was also honored by having the Carousel Ranch’s arena named after him and his wife for making the equine therapy held there possible.

This 2010 SCV Man of the Year winner who’s also been an SCV resident since 1969, has proven time and again that he’s committed to this community, serving on a number of local volunteer groups, like the city’s Energy Committee, as well as a number of local fundraising groups.

Santa Clarita’s Most Influential 2021 • The Signal 27

40

41

42

David Hegg

Rick Patterson

Cherise Moore

“Pastor David Hegg of Grace Baptist Church leads one of the Santa Clarita Valley’s largest faith communities and his influence extends beyond the walls of his church and sets an example as a family man, leader and person of faith.”

— Richard Budman Signal Publisher/Owner

“Rick Patterson has long been an influential attorney in Santa Clarita, and one who’s used his means and resources as a founding partner of Owen Patterson & Owen to be a major supporter of the senior citizen population in our community, as well as the schools.”

— Richard Budman Signal Publisher/Owner

“William S. Hart Union High School District board President Dr. Cherise Moore is an experienced and knowledgeable advocate for education in the Santa Clarita Valley, who’s led the district through a challenging year while always keeping a positive outlook for its students and families.”

— Richard Budman Signal Publisher/Owner

Grace Baptist Pastor David Hegg is a spiritual leader who’s dedicated to his congregation and someone who’s also been a part of the educational community at The Masters University since 1994. He considers himself a pastor, writer and Christ-follower, but he means a lot more to this community than those humble labels.

Hegg’s writings on faith and spirituality offer the wisdom and insight that come from decades of leadership and knowledge, he shares regularly with readers in his weekly column and in his sermons. The Santa Clarita Valley has faced its share of challenges in the last 18 months, and every time crisis has reared its head, Hegg has been there to console and help.

A man who teaches ethics and theology, in addition to being someone who practices what he preaches in every day, Hegg seeks to set an example with how he lives his life. Between his speaking roles, teachings, writings and work with his congregation, Hegg is constantly connecting with the community and trying to share and learn perspectives with members of the community.

28 · Santa Clarita’s Most Influential 2021 • The Signal

Rick Patterson is a major supporter for the SCV Committee on Aging, which recently used support from backers like Patterson to build the brand new SCV Bella Vida Senior Center.

Another one of Patterson’s areas of support in the SCV through his fundraising efforts is on behalf of schools. Patterson, a panel attorney for the California Association of Realtors and SCV Bar Association honoree, is not only a leader in the legal community, but also someone who’s helped lobby on behalf of SCV residents in Sacramento. One of Patterson’s lasting feats was his work on the passage of Assembly Bill 534, which made “surrogate stalking,” or publishing photos, descriptions and locations of children with malintent, a misdemeanor.

Whether it’s the home-delivered meal program or new resources for school campuses, Patterson has made an effort to support the community over the last 30 years. Patterson has also put in countless hours to support local schools through the now-defunct SCV Facilities Foundation. A predecessor to the WiSH Foundation, the organization helped support school sites and facilities for the William S. Hart Union High School District.

It did not take long for Dr. Cherise Moore to establish herself as a leader on the Hart district’s governing board, bringing a wide breadth of experience in education that includes teaching, management and administration.

Moore has worked to improve our educational system in the SCV and beyond with her work as a principal researcher for American Institutes for Research, where she’s a part of the California Adult Literacy Professional Development Project (CALPRO). Moore’s extensive background in adult education includes membership on the California Department of Education’s (CDE) Adult Education Field Partnership Team, the CDE Adult Education Strategic Planning Steering Committee and the CALPRO Professional Advisory Board.

Moore has shown herself to be willing to ask difficult questions or to step in and roll up her sleeves to help out a wellness center or speak with parents, since first joining the board with her appointment in 2017, and then being re-elected in 2018. The future of the SCV is unquestionably tied to the success of the Hart district, which is why it’s so important to have caring and passionate leaders like Moore at the helm.

$10

OFF EXP DEC. 25 2021 Santa Clarita’s Most Influential 2021 • The Signal 29

43

44

45

Kevin MacDonald

Cary Quashen

Valerie Bradford

“Santa Clarita Valley Bella Vida Senior Center CEO Kevin MacDonald helps take care of thousands of seniors in the SCV, whether it’s providing them with activities and a chance to get together or helping them get meals delivered to their home, a reliable leader that so many count on.”

— Richard Budman Signal Publisher/Owner

“No one has done as much to raise awareness about the dangers of addiction and substance abuse in the Santa Clarita Valley as Cary Quashen, who constantly works to promote a healthier, drug-free SCV, as well as help those who are struggling.”

— Richard Budman Signal Publisher/Owner

“In just a short time, Valerie Bradford, president and founder of the Santa Clarita chapter of the NAACP, has become the voice of leadership for a community organization that seeks to make the SCV more inclusive.”

— Richard Budman Signal Publisher/Owner

Kevin MacDonald led the senior center’s transition from its previous location in Newhall to its brand new centrally located, multimillion-dollar, state-of-the-art facility. He came to the center a few years ago knowing the task of fundraising for this new center, and then overseeing its construction and operations. Despite the pandemic somewhat limiting its operations recently, the new center has already become an impressive and vital community resource. One impressive early milestone, for example, was that the center achieved 100,000 meals served since the onset of quarantine last August, about five months into the stay-at-home order that left many without the ability or means to get their own adequate food supply.

With Santa Clarita Valley’s senior population projected to grow over the next 15 years, MacDonald’s role in its care is going to continue to grow in importance and scope. The confidence that MacDonald’s leadership inspires will no doubt play a pivotal role in the center’s successful partnerships with the city of Santa Clarita and Los Angeles County, as well as its many generous community supporters.

Action Family Counseling founder Cary Quashan’s journey has taken him from recovery to becoming a nationally renowned voice in the nation’s battle against addiction. Quashen, former director of Henry Mayo Newhall Hospital’s Behavioral Health Unit, has helped countless individuals end drug addiction in the SCV and beyond, a problem that’s national in scope but also repeatedly shows up on SCV doorsteps.

Quashen has used his profile to make appearances in the media, in addition to taking part in an award-winning Signal documentary about addiction, demonstrating his dedication and support of the advocacy he undertakes to fight addiction. His all-ages support for the community and support of the entire SCV can be shown in his work to help keep families together.

Quashen’s centers have 12 locations and 16 programs in the Southern California area that specialize in alcohol and substance abuse intensive outpatient, residential treatment programs for both teens and adults, as among the help he offers, in addition to sober living facilities in Bakersfield and Santa Clarita Valley.

30 · Santa Clarita’s Most Influential 2021 • The Signal

The stated goal of the Santa Clarita chapter of the NAACP is to “inspire positive change in our community and help the organization be the catalyst to drive a better, more inclusive version” of the SCV. Bradford’s leadership and local involvement make her a great fit for that role, as someone who’s involved as a local business owner who has shared her call to serve the community as part of her drive to make it a better place for all.

Bradford brings more than 15 years as a resident of the SCV and more than two dozen years of business experience to her community involvement, work that included an understanding of management, administration and networking, which are all important tools to have as president of the NAACP’s Santa Clarita chapter. A COC grad, parent and grandparent, Bradford has also advocated for health care reform at the college and supported efforts to provide resources for homeless individuals. While her organization is new to the SCV, its promise and potential are great with Bradford at the helm to lead its effort — one that no doubt will continue to be a part of the effort to make the SCV a better, more inclusive place to live, work and play.

1 out of 6 Americans will have an alcohol or drug problem in their lifetime.

Many won’t seek help.

“There is help available.”

I’m Cary Quashen — writing not only to shine light on the amazing Action programs & team but also to develop relationships with community leaders, families, and local advocates who are also on the front lines defending families in our community from the horrors of alcohol & drug addiction.

Action is a drug rehabilitation center that has been serving families in & around Santa Clarita Valley for the past 20+ years.

The Action treatment programs have helped countless young people & adults to turn their lives around for the better.

ACTION DRUG REHABS Beginning w/ a cost-free confidential assessment, Action offers inpatient RESIDENTIAL TREATMENT CENTERS, INTENSIVE OUTPATIENT & FULL DAY TREATMENT. Client’s struggling with substance abuse are provided with the tools needed to maintain sobriety and to manage the co-occurring mental health challenges associated.

Alcohol and Drug Treatment. Action’s programs are contracted with nearly all HMO & PPO Health Insurance plans, covering up to 100% of treatment costs.

MOST INFLU E

AL 20 NTI 19

Sincerely,

Action (800) 367-8336 or call me anytime (661) 713-3006.

A'S RIT

SANTA C LA

If you or a loved one is in need of help, or if you would like to discuss how we may be able to work together towards a common goal of decreasing drug abuse in & around our community, please don’t hesitate to call

Founder, Action Family Counseling M: (661) 713-3006 E: cquashen@actionfamily.org 22722 Soledad Canyon Road Santa Clarita, CA 91350 Santa Clarita’s Most Influential 2021 • The Signal 31

46

47

48

Tim Burkhart

Ivan Volschenk

Brian Koegle

“As one of the leaders for a corporation that is one of the largest employers in the Santa Clarita Valley, Tim Burkhart plays an important role in our community by not only creating a significant number of job opportunities but also by helping to attract families and tourism dollars to the area.”

— Richard Budman Signal Publisher/Owner

“A business owner, entrepreneur and leader for the business community, Ivan Volschenk’s tireless efforts for the Santa Clarita Valley Chamber of Commerce constantly improve our community and make sure the SCV is always earning its business-friendly reputation as the voice of business.”

— Richard Budman Signal Publisher/Owner

“Brian Koegle of Poole, Shaffery & Koegle is a member of one of the most influential firms in the Santa Clarita Valley, and his work with the SCV business community makes local business owners more knowledgeable, and the firm is critical to the SCV’s successful growth and development.”

— Richard Budman Signal Publisher/Owner

Tim Burkhart, corporate vice president of maintenance and construction for Six Flags, maintains a sense of civic duty by giving back to a number of nonprofit organizations, as well as serving as a member of the city’s Planning Commission. The commission, which takes a first look at nearly every major development proposed before the City Council, helps ensure the plans for the city not only fall in line with city regulation but also with the standards of quality that city residents appreciate He also oversees the maintenance and construction functions for all 26 Six Flags parks in North America. A Hart High and College of the Canyons graduate, he’s a shining example of the potential and success produced by our local school districts, as well as how Six Flags Magic Mountain plays such an important role in our community’s economy in a number of ways — not the least of which is providing opportunities for professional growth. As a senior executive for Six Flags’ international development team, Burkhart’s career has allowed him opportunities to create international theme and water parks in Saudi Arabia, China and Mexico.

He also maintains a sense of civic duty by giving back to a number of nonprofit organizations.

32 · Santa Clarita’s Most Influential 2021 • The Signal

Ivan Volschenk, the managing partner for Evolve Business Strategies, which runs operations for the SCV Chamber of Commerce, is a respected leader and consummate advocate for the local business community. Whether hosting important dialogue at a chamber question-and-answer session, creating professional networks at an evening mixer or advocating for a better business climate in front of a legislative body, Volschenk understands business advocacy as well as anyone and is always supporting SCV business owners.

Since Evolve Business Strategies has taken over SCV Chamber leadership, the organization has grown in membership, stature, relevance and any other metric you might be able to think of. Having a top-notch group like the SCV Chamber in charge of business advocacy, with Volschenk at the helm, are big reasons why there’s now more than 600 members, a leadership-development group for future generations in NextSCV and a successful partnership with the Latino of Chamber of Commerce, creating the Latino Business Alliance. These partnerships and successes help create a more diverse, inclusive and supportive business environment that benefit everyone, as well as the area’s potential.

Attorney Brian Koegle is a well-respected leader in the SCV business community, who helps spread his understanding of the law, new legislation and business owners’ liabilities in an annual seminar, as well as constantly throughout the year in advice to clients.

Poole, Shaffery & Koegle is responsible for countless developments, projects and business deals in the SCV with their legal expertise guiding the way — and Koegle is a huge part of that.

As a partner in the employment and labor law department, his focus and expertise in these areas helps employers in a number of ways, including a company’s hiring practices, contracts, wage and hour issues and matters that determine employment.

Whether dealing with a situation that requires mediation, arbitration, litigation or an administrative hearing, or addressing any number of employment discrimination dispute cases that may arise, Koegle’s importance to the SCV is tremendous. His guidance in creating, crafting and updating policies that protect businesses from these types of conflict is unquestioned.

EXPERIENCE! EXPERIENCE!

5SWF4JB5JU249850. at this offer - VIN# WDC0G4JB8JV027643. at this$57,645. offer - VIN#WDDZF4JB3JA339978. at this $59,965. offer - VIN#4JGDA5JB8JB031672.

36 MSRP $40,118. $449/month, 36 MSRP $569/month, 36 MSRP $579/month, s-Benz Mercedes-Benz snth, tax.plus 36 tax. MSRP $40,118. $449/month, plus tax.plus 36 tax. MSRP $57,645. $569/month, plus tax.plus 36 tax. MSRP $59,965. $579/month, plus tax.plus 36 tax. 36

credit through Mercedes-Benz average credit Mercedes-Benz average credit Mercedes-Benz average credit through Mercedes-Benz 1/26/17.

Offer expires 11/26/17.

Offer expires 11/26/17.

Offer expires 11/26/17. lic$1095 fees. acquisition $1095 acquisition fee.

10k perthrough year. lic fees. $1095 acquisition fee.

10k per year.

MSRP Offer expires 11/26/17.

Offerend expires 11/26/17.

Offer expires 11/26/17. lic Santa fees.above fee.

10k per year. lic fees. $1095 acquisition fee.

10k per year.

355 Santa Clarita, CA 91355 MSRP nerage approved month closed end lease, on approved above month closed end lease, onthrough approved above month closed end lease, on approved Clarita, CA 91355 ed above month closed end lease, on approved above month closed lease, on approved above month closed end lease, on approved abovedueabove ancial Services. $4,193 total due at Financial Services. $4,193 total due at Financial Services. $4,863 total due at Financial Services. $5,203 total at of¡SEsigning Mercedes-Benz average credit through Mercedes-Benz average credit through Mercedes-Benz average credit through Mercedes-Benz ning includes $2,999 down payment and includes $2,949 down payment and signing includes $3,499 down payment and signing includes $3,829 down payment and des-Benz average credit through Mercedes-Benz average credit through Mercedes-Benz average credit through Mercedes-Benz HABLA ESPAÑOL! 661-600-9500 HABLA ESPAÑOL! New Ownership, New Ownership, A095 ESPAÑOL! 661-600-9500 ¡SE HABLA ESPAÑOL! New Ownership, New Ownership, <FNAME> <LNAME> <FNAME> <LNAME> $ duetotal acquisition taxServices. and license. $1,095 acquisition PlusFinancial tax license. $1,095 acquisition Plus taxdue andFinancial license. $1,095 acquisition fee.

Plus tax andatlicense.

3 due total due fee. at Plus$Financial Services. $4,193 totalfee. due at and Financial Services. $4,863 at Financial Services. $5,203 total due at atdeposit.

Financial $4,193 total due atBased Services. $4,863 total fee.Based aton Services. $5,203 total due m www.mbzvalencia.com Different Experience , Different Experience security Based on 10,000 miles No security deposit. on 10,000 miles No security deposit.

10,000 miles No security deposit.

Based on 10,000 miles FNAME>, , www.mbzvalencia.com Different Experience Different Experience <ADDRESS> <ADDRESS> ME>, wn payment and signing includes $2,949payment down payment and signing includes $3,499payment down payment and signing includes $3,829payment down payment and ment and signing includes $2,949 down and signing includes $3,499 down and signing includes $3,829 down and

ncia

57095 53 945 CERTIFIED Valencia CERTIFIED PRE-OWNED PRE-OWNED

EXPERIENCE! HUGE HUGE HUGE INVENTORY INVENTORY INVENTORY MANAGER SPECIALS MANAGER SPECIALS WEEKEND WEEKEND WEEKEND SPECIALS SPECIALS SPECIALS

r year with 25 cents per excess miles. One per year with 25 cents per excess miles. One per year with 25 cents per excess miles. One per year with 25 cents per excess miles. One <CITY> <STATE> <ZIP> <CITY> s0. tax and -license. $1,095 acquisition Plus andWDC0G4JB8JV027643. license. $1,095 acquisition fee. tax and license. $1,095 acquisition fee. tax and Down payment $3,499.

Due signing $4,863. $569 plus tax and Down payment $3,829.

Due at signing $5,203. pluslicense. tax and STARBUCKS GIFT ncia Blvd.

23355 Valencia Blvd. offer VIN#55SWF4JB5JU249850. atfee. this offer -at VIN# at offer VIN#WDDZF4JB3JA339978. at this offer - <STATE> VIN#4JGDA5JB8JB031672. dthis license. $1,095 acquisition fee. $40,118.

Plus tax and tax license. $1,095 fee.this Plus tax- Plus and license. acquisition fee.

Plus taxPlus and$<ZIP> license.

BUCKS GIFT CARD $399/month, plus tax.

36 CARD MSRP $449/month, plus tax.

36 acquisition MSRP $57,645. $569/month, plus tax. 36 $1,095 MSRP $59,965. $579/month, plus tax.

36 on 10,000 miles No security deposit.

Based on 10,000 miles No security deposit.

Based on 10,000 miles No security deposit.

Based on 10,000 er expires 11/26/17.

Offer expires 11/26/17.

Offer expires 11/26/17.

Offer expires 11/26/17. lic fees. $1095 acquisition fee.

10k per year. lic fees. $1095 acquisition fee.

10k per year.

000 miles No security deposit.

Based on 10,000 security deposit. on 10,000 milesabove No security deposit.

Basedonon 10,000above miles miles a, 91355 Santa Clarita, ndCA lease, on approved above month closedCA end91355 lease, onmiles approved No above month closedBased end lease, on approved month closed end lease, approved

tax. 36MSRPMSRP $40,118. $449/month, plus 36 tax. 36MSRPMSRP $57,645. $569/month, plus 36 tax. 36MSRPMSRP $59,965. $579/mon x.us 36 $40,118. $449/month, plus tax. $57,645. $569/month, plus tax. $59,965. $579/month, p 2015 MB 2015 MB 2015 MB R COMING BY!* 2015 MB 2015 MB oved above month closed end lease, on approved above month closed end lease, on approved above month closed end lease, o 2015 MB 2015 MB 2015 MB MING BY!* 2015 MB 2015 MB excess miles.

One per year with cents perthrough excess miles.

One year with 25 per miles. excess miles. One per with 25 permonth excess miles.

Oneend lease, on appr bove month closed end25perlease, on approved above closed end lease, onyear approved above closed miles.

One per year with 25average cents excess miles.

One per yearper with 25month cents percents excess One per withyear 25 cents percents excess miles.

One t00through Mercedes-Benz credit Mercedes-Benz average credit through Mercedes-Benz average credit through Mercedes-Benz ¡SE HABLA ESPAÑOL! 661-600-9500 ¡SE HABLA ESPAÑOL! New Ownership, New Ownership, dealership to receive a $20 Starbucks WF4JB5JU249850. at this offer VIN# WDC0G4JB8JV027643. at this offer VIN#WDDZF4JB3JA339978. at this offer VIN#4JGDA5JB8JB031672.

C300 C300 C300 ices. $4,193 total due at Financial Services. $4,193 total due at Financial Services. $4,863 total due at Financial Services. $5,203 total due at GLK350 cedes-Benz average credit through Mercedes-Benz average credit through Mercedes-Benz average credit through E350 hip to receive a $20 Starbucks U249850. at this offer -credit VIN# WDC0G4JB8JV027643. at this offer - average VIN#WDDZF4JB3JA339978. atGLK350 thisMercedes-Benz offer - VIN#4JGDA5JB8JB031672.

C300 C300 C300 Benz average through Mercedes-Benz credit through average credit through Mer E350 encia.com www.mbzvalencia.com Different Experience Different Experience <FNAME>, Certified Pre-Owned.

Steel Gray/ Black only.

Offer expires 11/26/17.

Polar White/Black srecipient $2,999 down payment and signing includes $2,949 down payment and signing includes $3,499 down payment and signing includes $3,829 down payment and Offer expires 11/26/17.

Offer expires 11/26/17.

Offer expires 11/26/17.

Certified Pre-Owned.

Steel Gray/ Black nt only.

Offer expires 11/26/17.

4-MATIC Polar White/Black Offer expires 11/26/17.

Offer expires 11/26/17.

Offer expires 11/26/17.

4-MATIC al due at Financial Services. $4,193 total due at Financial Services. $4,863 total due at Financial Services. $5,20 Linden Wood, 17" Wheels acquisition Camera,$1,095Financial camera, eAion $20 at Linden Financial Services. $4,193 Services. $4,863$1,095total due Financial Services.

Sport Package $5,203 to Wood, Wheels Navigation, Rearview Camera, Rear viewRear camera, fee.

Plus tax and 17" license. $1,095 fee.Navigation, Plustotal tax Rearview and due license. acquisition fee. view Plus$57,645. tax and license. acquisition fee. at Plus tax and license.

321$59,965.

Sport 321 Package STARBUCKS GIFT CARD month, plus tax.

36 MSRP $40,118. $449/month, plusattax.

36 MSRP $569/month, plus tax.

36 MSRP $579/month, plusdo Spot Assist Panorama Roof Blind SpotBlind Assist Panorama Roof posit.

Based on 10,000 miles No security deposit.

Based on 10,000 miles No security deposit.

Based on 10,000 miles No security deposit.

Based on 10,000 miles yment and signing includes $2,949 down payment and signing includes $3,499 down payment and signing includes $3,829 and signing includes $2,949 down payment and signing includes $3,499 down payment and signing includes $3,829 down p 2015 MB 2015 MB 2015 MB UST FOR COMING BY!* 2015 MB 2015 MB on approved above month closed end lease, on approved above month closed end lease, on approved above month closed end lease, on approved 5 cents per excess miles. One per year with 25 cents per excess miles. One per year with 25 cents per excess miles. One per year with 25 cents per excess miles. One nd license. $1,095 acquisition fee.

Plus tax and license. $1,095 acquisition fee.

Plus tax and license. $1,095 acquisition fee.

Plu , C300 , license. , creditfee.through ense. $1,095 fee.

Plus tax PlusatGLK350 tax and license. $1,095 acquisition fee. Plus tax >, ,through card atMercedes-Benz the dealership to acquisition receive $20offer Starbucks VIN#55SWF4JB5JU249850. atathis -credit VIN# WDC0G4JB8JV027643. at this$1,095 offer - average VIN#WDDZF4JB3JA339978. thisMercedes-Benz - , VIN#4JGDA5JB8JB031672.

C300 C300 , only. , and , acquisition gh average through Mercedes-Benz average credit Mercede ,offer 11/26/17.

E350 , Certified Pre-Owned.

Steel Gray/ Black he named recipient Offer expires 11/26/17.

Polar White/Black 1/26/17.

Offer expires 11/26/17.

Offer expires 11/26/17.

Offer expires 4-MATIC STK 56484/VIN FU014836 STK 56604/VIN FU049332 STK 56613/VIN FU008707 0,000 miles No security deposit.

Based onRearview 10,000 miles No security deposit.

Based onFG347296 10,000 No 56668E/VIN security deposit.

Based STK10,000 56658E/VIN FG347296 STK FB088352 STKtotal 56484/VIN FU014836 STK 56604/VIN FU049332 STK No 56613/VIN miles No security deposit.

Based onNavigation, 10,000 miles Based on miles No 56668E/VIN security deposit.

Basedtotal on 1d STK$4,863 56658E/VIN ,193 dueCARD at Linden Financial Services. $4,193 total due at security Financial Services. total due at miles Financial $5,203 STK FB088352 Wood, 17" Wheels Camera, RearFU008707 viewdeposit. camera, 321 Sport Services.

Package CKS GIFT GIFT CARD Blind Spot Assist Panorama Roof miles.

Oneper year perwith year 25 per cents per excess miles.

One per yearincludes 25$3,499 cents per excess per year25with 25down cents per e down payment and signing includes $2,949 down payment and signing down payment and One signing includes $3,829 payme <LNAME> OneBY!* 25with cents excess miles.

One<FNAME> per year with 25with cents per excess miles. miles.

One per year with cents per excess <FNAME> <LNAME> NG 2015 MB BY!* 2016 MB 2015 MB 2014 MB 2015 MB 2015 MB lus tax andatlicense. acquisition fee.

Plus tax and <ADDRESS> license. $1,095 acquisition fee.

Plus tax and license. 2014 $1,095 tax and JU249850. this$1,095 - WDC0G4JB8JV027643.

VIN# WDC0G4JB8JV027643. at offer this,988 - VIN#WDDZF4JB3JA339978. this offer -PlusVIN#4JGD 2016 MB MB MB ,VIN# 988 $27 ,<ADDRESS> 988 $27 2015 MB FNAME>, $30 ,998 ,offer 998 9850. thisat$27 offer -offer at 2015 this -offer VIN#WDDZF4JB3JA339978. at$35 thisatacquisition - fee.

VIN#4JGDA5JB to receive a $20miles Starbucks STK 56484/VIN FU014836 STK 56604/VIN FU049332 STK 56613/VIN FU008707 ed on 10,000 No security deposit.

Based on 10,000 miles No security deposit.

Based on 10,000 miles No security deposit.

Based on STK 56658E/VIN FG347296 STK 56668E/VIN FB088352 E350 ive a $20 Starbucks CLS63 E250 Offer expires 11/26/17. E250 Offer expires Offer expires 11/26/17.10,00 ML350 CLS63 E350 ML350 <CITY> <STATE> <ZIP>11/26/17.

OfferGIFT expires 11/26/17.

Offer expires 11/26/17.

Offer expires 11/26/17.

ML350 STARBUCKS CARD ML350 <CITY> <STATE> <ZIP> nly. Offer expires 11/26/17.

Mercedes-Benz of Valencia CERTIFIED PRE-OWNED Would like to Congratulate $27 988 $27 988 $27 $27 988 $30 $30 998 $35 $35 998 $27 988 $27 988 988 998 998 all the recipients of The Signal’s Top 51 r excess miles. One per year with 25 cents per excess miles. One per year with 25 cents per excess miles. One per year with 25 cents per excess mile Premium Pkg, Panorama Roof, Premium Pkg, Panorama Roof, Navigation, Rear View Camera, Navigation, Rear View Camera, Heated Seats, Keyless Go, 19” Wheels Heated Seats, Keyless Go, 19” Wheels

Premium Pkg, Panorama Roof, Navigation, Rear View Camera, Heated Seats, Keyless Go, 19” Wheels

er expires 11/26/17.

Polar White/Black Polar White/Black

Carbon Fiber Trim, Prem.Pkg, Carbon Fiber Trim, Prem.Pkg,

<FNAME>Review <LNAME> blueTEC Diesel blueTEC Diesel Premium & Sports Packages, Parktronic,19" AMG Wheels, 2,642 Miles and Loaded Camera, Keyless-Go Premium & Sports Packages, R COMING BY!* Parktronic,19" AMG Wheels, Only 2,642Only Miles andMB Loaded Review Camera, Keyless-Go 2015 MB 2016 MB 2015 MB - VIN#WDDZF4JB3JA339978.

2014 MB CertifiedPrem.Pkg.,Nav,Rear Pre-owned Prem.Pkg.,Nav,Rear 2015 Keyless Go and more, Low miles SWF4JB5JU249850. at this offer VIN# WDC0G4JB8JV027643. at this offer at this offer - VIN#4JGDA5JB8JB0 Certified Pre-owned Drivers Assistance <ADDRESS> Too much to list Keyless Go and more, Low miles Drivers Assistance View Camera, Sport Package, Heated Seats Too much to list View Camera, Sport Package, Heated Seats ! dealership to receive a $20 Starbucks New Ownership, E350 CLS63 E250<CITY> <STATE> Offer expires Offer expires 11/26/17.

New Ownership,Offer expires 11/26/17.

ML350 <ZIP>11/26/17. ML350 recipient only. Offer expires 11/26/17. Polar White/Black Premium19” Package 19” Wheels, Premium Package Wheels,

Black/Black Black/Black

$37 ,988 $66 ,988 $37 ,999 $39 ,998 $37,988$37 $37 ,988 $66 ,988 ,999 $39 ,998 $37,988

Carbon Fiber Trim, Prem.Pkg, Black/Black Premium Package 19” Wheels, Different Experience blueTEC Diesel Different Experience Premium & Sports Packages, Parktronic,19" AMG Wheels, Only 2,642 Miles and Loaded Review Camera, Keyless-Go Certified Pre-owned Prem.Pkg.,Nav,Rear Keyless Go and more, Low miles STK 56607/VIN GB181586 STKView STK 56705L/VIN FA590533 Drivers STK Assistance 56472A/VIN EA119953 much to list FA476119 STKToo56734L/VIN 56478/VIN FB095754 STK 56607/VIN GB181586 Camera, Sport Package, Heated STKSeats 56705L/VIN FA590533 STK 56472A/VIN EA119953 STK 56734L/VIN FA476119 STK 56478/VIN FB095754 SPAÑOL! New Ownership,

SE>, CARD ,988 $37,988 FTGIFT CARD $37,999 $39,998 $66,988 Different$37 Experience <FNAME> <LNAME> <FNAME> <LNAME> <ADDRESS> *BY!* <ADDRESS> UCKS GIFT CARD <FNAME> <LNAME> STK 56607/VIN GB181586

STK 56478/VIN FB095754

STK 56705L/VIN FA590533

STK 56734L/VIN FA476119

STK 56472A/VIN EA119953

MANAGER SPECIALS

<CITY> <STATE> <CITY> <STATE> <ZIP><ZIP>

$20 Starbucks MING BY!* aeive $20aStarbucks 1999 JAGUAR

<ADDRESS> 2015 MB 2007 Bentley 2007 Bentley 2008 TOYOTA 2014 AUDI2013 JEEP 2008 TOYOTA 2013 JEEP 2015 MB 2008 TOYOTA 2014 AUDI 1999 JAGUAR 2008 TOYOTA fer expires 11/26/17.

CONTINENTAL xpires 11/26/17. <CITY> <STATE> <ZIP> GRAND CONTINENTAL ip to receive a $20 Starbucks GRAND 2015 MB 2007 Bentley “FLYING SPUR” 2014 AUDICHEROKEE 1999 JAGUAR 2008 TOYOTA 2008 TOYOTA 2013 JEEP CHEROKEE New Ownership, “FLYING SPUR” wonly.

Ownership, OfferAMAZING expires 11/26/17.

43,413 Low Miles Carfax 1 Owner, Immaculate CONTINENTAL AMAZING CONDITION, Must Must See! Must See! 43,413 Low Miles Carfax 1 Owner, Carfax 1 Owner, Recent Carfax Arrival!1 Owner, GRAND Immaculate CONDITION, Must Carfax 1 Owner, Carfax 1 Owner, Recent Arrival!

Carfax 1 Owner, Condition and inCondition Immaculate Condition Experience PRIUS C A4 Carfax 1 Owner, Condition and in Immaculate see to believe!see to believe! rent Experience ! Different “FLYING SPUR” CHEROKEE New Ownership, 43,413 Low Miles Carfax 1 Owner, Immaculate AMAZING CONDITION, Must Must See! Carfax 1 Owner, Carfax 1 Owner, Recent Arrival!

Carfax 1 Owner, Condition and in Immaculate Condition see to believe!

Different Experience

2500 2500

XK8SIENNA SIENNA PRIUS XK8 PRIUS C C A4 A4

2500 XK8 SIENNA $23,998 $32,998 $48,998 $7,998$9,998 $9,998 $13,998 $23,998 $32,998 $48,998 $17,998 $7,998 $13,998 $17,998 $7,998

$9,998

STK 25979B/VIN XC035595

STK 26089A/VIN S105246

$13,998 $17,998 $23,998 $32,998 $48,998

/VIN DC592395 /VIN 78044614 /VIN F5948956 /VIN XC035595 /VIN S105246 /VIN E1567609 STK 25991ASTK /VIN25991A DC592395 STK 26146ASTK /VIN26146A 78044614 /VIN N043304 STK 56650PSTK /VIN56650P F5948956 STK 25979BSTK /VIN25979B XC035595 STK 26089ASTK /VIN26089A S105246 /VIN56689P E1567609 STK 56689PSTK STK 26074ASTK /VIN26074A N043304 STK 56689P/VIN E1567609

STK 26074A/VIN N043304

STK 25991A/VIN DC592395

STK 56650P/VIN F5948956

STK 26146A/VIN 78044614

Dealership was voted best luxury brand for Santa Dealership was voted best luxury brand for Santa <FNAME> <LNAME> Dealership was voted best luxury brand for Santa <FNAME> <LNAME> Dealership was voted luxury brand for Santa <FNAME> <LNAME> Dealership was voted best luxury brand for Santa Dealership was voted best luxury brand for Santa <ADDRESS> <ADDRESS> 2017 by The Santa Clarita Valley Signal Clarita in <ADDRESS> 2017 by The Santa Clarita Valley Signal Clarita in 2017 by The Santa Clarita Valley Signal Clarita in Clarita in 2017 by The Santa Clarita Valley Signal Clarita in 2017 by The Santa Clarita Clarita in 2017 by The Santa ClaritaValley Valley Signal Signal <CITY> <STATE> <ZIP> <CITY> <STATE> <ZIP> <CITY> <STATE> <ZIP>

New Ownership, ew Ownership, Ownership, Different Experience erent Experience t Experience

of Valencia Mercedes-Benz of Valencia Mercedes-Benz of Valencia Mercedes-Benz ofofof

661-753-5555 www.MBZvalencia.com www.MBZvalencia.com 661-753-5555www.MBZvalencia.com www.MBZvalencia.com 661-753-5555 www.MBZvalencia.com www.MBZvalencia.com 23355 23355 Valencia Valencia Blvd., Blvd., Santa Santa Clarita, Clarita, CA CA 91355 91355

23355 Valencia Blvd., Santa Clarita, CA 23355 Valencia Blvd., Santa Clarita, CA Valencia Clarita, CA 91355 91355 2335523355 Valencia Blvd.,Blvd., SantaSanta Clarita, CA 91355 91355

All advertised prices exclude government fees and taxes, any finance charges, dealer document processing charge, electronic filing charge and any emission testing charge.

All advertised pricesofexclude government fees and taxes, any finance charges, any dealer document processing charge, any electronic filing charge and any emission testing charge. expires close business, date of publication.

Offer LAA5188397-1 Offer expires close of business, date of publication.

LAA5192002-1 All advertised prices government exclude government fees and taxes, any charges, finance charges, dealer document processing charge, electronic filingand charge and any emission testing charge.

All advertised prices exclude fees and taxes, any finance dealerany document processing charge, charge, electronic filing charge any emission charge.

All advertised pricesof exclude government fees and taxes, anycharges, finance charges, dealer document processing any electronic filingand charge and anytesting emission testing charge.

Santa Clarita’s Most Influential 2021 •charge.

The Signal 33 All advertised prices exclude government fees taxes, any finance any dealer document processing charge, any electronic filing charge any emission testing Offer expires close business, date and of publication.

Offer expires close of business, date of publication.

LAA5188397-1 expires close of business, date of publication.

Offerclose LAA5188397-1 of business, date of publication.

Offer expires LAA5192002-1

LAA5192002-1

49

50

51

Kathy Norris

Jim Backer

Kathy Martin

“ Norris’ longtime leadership at the Valley Industry Association gives the Santa Clarita Valley another caring, devoted and knowledgeable business advocate who’s been supporting local businesses for more than 40 years.”

— Richard Budman Signal Publisher/Owner

“Jim Backer is a longtime Santa Clarita resident who’s given back for years to this community through his work with a number of companies he’s worked with and, now more recently with his own development firm. Backer’s work always reflects well on the SCV and shows his care and concern for our quality of life.”

— Richard Budman Signal Publisher/Owner

“Since taking over public relations at the Santa Clarita Valley Water Agency, Kathie Martin has consistently earned this community’s trust and respect with her clear and concise professional messaging and outreach efforts for one of the most vital resources in any community.”

— Richard Budman Signal Publisher/Owner

AS CEO of the Valley Industry Association, Kathy Norris’ knowledge and skill in supporting the business community leave the SCV better off for everyone, always keeping its best interests in mind. VIA helps create partnerships to support businesses large and small, as well as a network of knowledge and support for its members and leadership.

Workshops, networking events and opportunity for partnership are just a few of the benefits of having someone like Norris at the helm, a person who understands the importance in being able to find the opportunity and support out there in the challenging landscape that owning and operating a business in California provides.

In the last year, the environment has been even more difficult, but Norris helped create dozens of virtual programs to support businesses and create meetup opportunities that became critical for sharing information during a very difficult time. Through a number of committees and various efforts that all support businesses in the SCV, Norris has always strived to be a positive influence in the SCV that business leaders can appreciate, understand and utilize, with a diverse array of membership that reflects the different ways that VIA provides support under Norris’ leadership.

34 · Santa Clarita’s Most Influential 2021 • The Signal

Jim Backer’s more than 35 years of experience in commercial and industrial real estate includes a countless number of SCV projects, including one of the SCV most ambitious projects yet — Vista Canyon, a 185-acre transitfocused, mixed-use development with more 1,000 homes, acres of park and recreational space and nearly 1 million square feet of commercial space.

One of the most promising aspects of this project is its transit-friendliness, which could allow the community to add much-needed quality homes, as well as have responsible plans that could help cut down on traffic and commute times. It follows in the tradition of quality resources he’s been directly responsible for over the last couple of decades.

Backer’s influence extends beyond the boardroom as he donates time, money and resources to a number of community nonprofits that are important to him, including the Foundation for Childrens Dental Health, the SCV Education Foundation, the SCV Chamber of Commerce and the SCV Economic Development Corp. Backer also directly supports local schools and youth sports.

Kathie Martin came to the SCV Water Agency as spokeswoman right before the organization was formed from the joining of the Castaic Lake Water Agency, the Newhall County Water District, the Santa Clarita Water Division and the Valencia Water Company.

Despite having to coordinate the messaging for four different groups, she quickly demonstrated why she earned the role, helping to seamlessly blend the water for more than a quarter-million business and residents in an area that stretches about 200 square miles.

Martin’s skills were recently recognized by the Public Relations Society of America with a PRism award for her work in alerting the public about SCV Water Agency facilities that were constructed to remove any PFAS chemicals.

Martin’s work in this area was also recognized by the California Association of Public Information Officials.

Whether notifying residents of possible savings on their water bill, about a class that might help ratepayers cut down on water consumption without impacting their quality of life or just general information about our supply, Martin is always a helpful, valuable source of information.

SUBSCRIBE

Until 12/30/21

50 $ 99 $ 50

SATURDAY AND SUNDAY..........$80 SIX DAYS A WEEK.................$160 E-EDITION DELIVERED TO YOUR EMAIL EVERYDAY • • • • • • • • • •

Local News Sports News Weather Today in History Opinion Letters to The Editor This week in History Classifieds Comics, Puzzles and Cartoons Lottery Results

TUESDAYS • • • • • • •

Democratic Voices Health and Fitness Beauty Trends SCV Voices Tuesday Trivia News of the Weird Sports

WEDNESDAYS • • • • • •

Full Speed to Port Your Community Senior Living Travel Investing Wednesday’s Celebs

THURSDAYS • • • • • • •

Real Estate News Thursday Tips Steve Lunetta SCV Voices News of the Weird Community Calendar Your Community

Subscribe

• • • • • • • • • • •

NOW

APRIL 1, 202

1

SINCE 19 19

Today’s Forecast

85°/53° CANYON

COUNTR Y | NEW HAL

Source : DA guts Half of the gang two units sou L | SAU GUS

| VALENC IA

wi rce in Dis trict Attor ll be cut, says ney’s Offic Lunetta e Writer the

COUNTY WS MORE THREPORTS COVID-19 AN 600 CASES A3

WEDSig NESDAY,

naOCT OBE lSC VR.20, 2021 com

RANCH

| CASTAIC

A1 MAIN

SUBSCR IBE TOD AY 75¢ Tue sday - Frid ay Sat. $1.

00 Sun $1.

25 $1 Weeken der

A6

| STEVEN SON

| VAL VER DE

NEWS

661-259 -1234

and narc 79°/54° otic s units Today’s Forecast

| AGUA DUL

COMM RESOUR UNITY HELPS FACE FAIR MILIES

SINCE 19 19

CE

for the Hard SUBSCR IBE TOD which it was core Gangs unit, AY 75¢ Tue in announce proximat sday - Frid office d that ap- crimes — will ely 50 be “reim ay and lawy Wednesd told The Signal each CAN agined” Half of YON ame ay. on othe unit would be transers from said “ren Sat. $1. violence the NTR The sour County Dist the Los Ang . District d,” COU r branches ferred Yce| NEW sour , the sour 00 ce, ce said.

HAL The In addition , the source said.to Gascón’s staffAttorney George fice Hard rict Attorney’s eles main unnamedwho asked to reL .’s D.A | Sun $1.

SAU Office Of- prof GUS | VAL to losin also said med out of fear DDA 25 their depu Narcotics core Gang and Majo essional those to iately respond did not im- ENCIA ty district g half of new s who remain of $1 Weeken repri units have r | STEVEN to requests com com ficially cut,” with attorneys unit men been “of- meetings occurredsal, said two the Hardcore der the Duri t on Wed SON RAN will be , set a source one its approxim Gang Unit CH | CAS 661-259-1 within coticat 3 p.m. for the Wednesday, whic and tionup community liaisasked to ferenng a March 17 newnesday. ately 700 TAIC | VAL 234 Majo ce, Gasc ships on relas unit and h include case VERDE ón neith s conanother at r Nar- that invo firm complex s — evant lawto work with the | AGUA er con4 p.m. cases cies rel- dissoed nor denied enforcem DULCE er high lve murder and a -profile oth- and to target spec ent agen- staff lve the two units plan to gang-rela By Caleb ific , whe , and his specific tedSignaleffo Lune tta gangsters gangs clarificat n asked for rtStaff furth Senior ion, refer toWriter in ean reduce com mov away from red back er munity “at votin to large” g will be Rafferty’ Unless they s letter addr adopt a by- der the Californiafiled un- toSee district elect May CUTS essed or , A2Mira their next ion system at Rights Act as early Voting delivered Bill nda and in which voters with as next suit comp meeting, a law- week, a Walnut Cree ternoon, late Tuesday af- cific jurisdictional in spe- litigation, this ta Clarita elling the San- torney said on Tues k at- months follows nearly 19 lect a candidate lines se“This letter one does. of the day.

City Coun The ultim specific regio from their is, however, schedule a publ cil to cord atum, ac- delaying a decisCity Council different ing to attor ic and does Rafferty’ n. at which ion on how to mov ney Scot anticiyour cons hearing while his s letter said that, pate litigation,” t new distre forward with previous the letter can suggest impr tituents said. “You a ict election system nications with the commu- ordinance must adopt an Otherwise, my ovements. not spec city did ing on beha clients, actrequiring ifically dislf of threaten trict elections and either ac- ers of Santa Clarithe votcept the proposed ta, will map or See LAW SUIT, A2 Dan

By Caleb

Signal Staff

Aiming to have a go od

City thr eatened

At tor ney

time at Sa nta

Clarita Ar chery Ra nge

threatens

to sue un

less Santa

Clarita sw

SignalSC V.

itches to

Warran t sexual details assault allegati o Realtor ns in case Las Vegas

with law s

by-distric

Bjorkma Las Veg woman in a as Las Veg n was in a last August. hotel room Tuesday as courtroom to mak The

SCV stat io

n de

tails ‘use Video of alte and suspec rcation between SC t is circul ated on soc V deputies

By Emily Alvareng ial media a and Caleb Lunetta Signal Stati Staff Writer

s

Santa Clar ita Valley Sheriff’s

Signal Staff

reopening

uit

next meeti

ng

By Caleb

Signal Senio

r Staff Writer

William governin S. Hart Union g day nigh board members High School Dist t are schedule rict receive $15to discuss and vote d Wednesmillion in on VID-19 governme an application to relie nt funds Accordin f on campuses. for COthe distr g to the public ict agenda for Secondar qualifies to rece y School ive Elem the board, funds unde r the AmeEmergency Reli entary and However ef rican Resc ue Plan (ESSER) districts, , in order to rece county offic ive the fundAct. schools mus t subm es of education s, school dividual body “inteit a plan explainin , or charter to address nds to use g how the inand men students’ academicits ESSER III tal ty gaps that health needs, as , social, emo funds tional, the COV existed before, well as any oppo ID-1 rtun and were worsened iThe boar 9 pandemic,” by, also hold d, in order to the agenda item rece read a public hearing ive the funds, muss. to allow commen t ts See DIST RICT, A3

Estab lished 1919 Supes a pp

EX Lottery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

See BJOR Opinion . . . . . . .

KMAN, A2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A2 Classified . . . . . . . to Signal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . subscr . . . . . . .

Weather . . . . . . .

By . . . . A4 . . . . . . .

Earl Butler ibers . . . . . . . Emily Alvareng . . . . . . . a . . Senior Signal . A6 Staff . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Writer DonnaAct to go towa . . . . A5 Ploc rd the coun ty’s h smal -

rove ad dit

See THEA TRE, A2 Go $19 millio od morning n designate d from CO VID-19 Am erican Re scu Rob l business federal fund The Los e ert Pla prog Sam relief in n Act for rams way ty Board Angeles CounMarch to ing approved up day’s regu during6 Tues of Supe small spee 381 to

The #1 local news and information source in the Santa Clarita Valley!

(of votin g) exists, but as it currently Democra to emp announce t Christy Smith people, to make ower easier, to d Wed voting she has ente nesday make it more unseat Rep. red the race to accessible and still and Mike Garc safe R-Santa ia, free,” secure and fraud Smith said, in the 2022Clarita, November’scalling term elect midions. for the 25th race The new s of gressional Conher candidac Disy trict “a was anno textbook example early Wed unced happens of what morning nesday when the on system media. Smitsocial is h, a tioning well funclongtime Santa Clarita “To mak .” resident, ing) more e (votalso relea accesSmith sible to video titled sed a vote incredibly rs is Get This “Let’s impo rtant, nounce her Done” to anno greater and there is candidac Garcia defe y. than race proof of that ated Smit by 333 vote s like mine h that ber — a s last Novem- were so incredibly close,” acknowle point that Smith she added.

Smith also opening dged with her deno nouncem line in her an- “intentional disin unced ent video. tion,” refer formaIn an ring to The Sign interview with tic as a form of the tacsuppressi al, Smit “voter November’s on.” h said “Most peop vote proved le don’t see that ever margin it that way matters. y vote tually that’ , but contex“We have s wha thing that to do every- pens,” Smith said, t hapCalM citin we can atter only prote s investiga g a to ct the franc not tion hise See SMIT H, A2 Writer

Signal Staff

T

solid fou ndation its gra nd

e Vegas whall Fam n, 48, of and vehe in Las eritaily PlacCan yon,eat Th and the denies the allegmently use rai and the era butyof gamma hydrre look forw ations oxy- ses rate, or Writer ard nto his day in s cur tai GHB perfo cent for —

By Jose Herr

fight

court,” Che ral nervous arminnoff g artssaid responde stheater, to Patti Wed he Newhall depressant collo syste d m Rasm according whenusse ay, for service to a package theft reac n, an artsnesd miss quia know Rock, presi ilynThea has a long Fam forcom- r for t,the cityhed as atre“dat Clarllyionemen day on the around 6:30 p.m. ingcall on offic histo “and weSant com e rapeita. drug “We don’ dent of the nonp ry ,” of acco openrdin and Tues a remi Tuesday’ ials released deta rofit. folks not of - shutting son Stree 17700 blockand ing, but wet fix things in the DEA s dow ofagain the ingjudg to rush nd n, again g to Rais t, acco ’s web Daniel. themen buildCanyon Coudeputy-involved ils on Sher Curtt.” to ain Foun equipment support funding iff’s Stati rding toMor Bjorkma site. founded in 2018 recently, an e SCV “use of forcentry, which promfight in on social sult of n The , 27-p inchar is a nonp dation, 2011ges As they special theatthat is needed or extra media Mea , as aofre- facesdedi twocatedmen pted a age rofit to prese postsure fund a docuE bond SCV sher” probe. . theater sexu encounte neared the loca rving t and was perfo al saul mon Rock said er company.” the as- ter red a man to tion,went histoafrming arts compiled iff’s depu the lt New theyunder cons t as ey, a resu ry a monspac transform walking diverse audi the foundation ties first truct of thehall Family e of thslo ion ation theinwith afrom a alleg serves ng ence vestigatiThea s. ware The s “Rai in even organizin on tre. house to rate coun sepa- sing ts or thective Curtainbyis LVMPD to entertainspecial performan g n Dete Bjorkma ts allegedatio a foun See FORC supports, Jaso ces and educ n digitally that that Lafr-eniere E, A2 ” saidn Caro , a 19-y ate the SCV etrated ear veteran l and then penIND had

Smith en for 25th ters race District oghlian

By Kev Kurd

of force’

system by

will vote receive gov to ratify bar ernment funds, gaining agr eement Lunetta

arrest affid initi e his Members recounts of avit defe al appearance with an investiga 1 Dance perfo tion’s Gran Studiotion nse attor d Reopenin cond uctedrm “King- of vid Chesnof ney Dag Cele LVM New York” f, following PDbration ofby an Bjor kma from the“to follow updetective Perfotion rminginArtsn’s brief“New Dan Wats detesies” n- during on/T Florheld after of drugging on reports Newhis hall Family the Raise the Curtain he Signal March 9 ida at and facilitate arrest.

Theatre in d sexual drug“Mr Newhall on Foundasaults” invo as- unta . Bjorkman volSaturday. lving Mik rily appe Bjorkma Ne ared

Building a

t election

Hart Dis to discu trict COVID -1 ss plan, la 9 b agreem or ents Board me mbers

Watson/T (Above left) he miles from Errol Guintu drov Signal taking adva Winnetka in Los Angee 26 includes redarrest affidavit les, er, to prac ntage of the warm weathtice case agains acted account of Archery Rang at the Santa t Mike Bjo Clar e ita on Saturday.

By Perry Guintu prou rkman Smith (Above) Signal Mana grouping dly takes a photo sexual inter ging Editor at of his course with Magsuci, 55 yards. (Below) a victim left, and he Shanil Las Veg known “washould have daug of Castaic, lice Dep as Metro Poprepare to hter Hali, 13, or physicall s mentally artment their third shoot Satu cials offirelea visit of resisting y incapable warrant sed the arrest (Below left) to the archery rday, or underthis week standing range.

Hali, tailin the left, and Magsuci take g the alleg de- defendan natu Shanil facing a ations t’s condre of cher y rang aim at targets at acco loca rdin l Real the are during their g to the uct,” accused of sexually tor nal complain crimivisit. saulting ast. a

Faith Coupons Home Improvement Business News It’s the Law Column Right Here Right Now Color Comics Books Travel Sports Food

CALL TODAY! 661-259-1000 OR EMAIL CIRCULATION@SIGNALSCV.COM NEW SUBSCRIBERS ONLY

THURSDAY,

Boston Food Section Movie Listings Entertainment News Wine Column SCV Veterans Page Movie Review Friday Flashback, News of the Weird Sports Faces of the SCV

SATURDAYS

A1 MAIN

NE

FRIDAYS • • • • • • • • • • •

$

ional sm

all busi ness fu n ds business rel

earmarke d rvisors lar 88nom 000 ic 03 d recovery up eco- to go $7.5 million is set The Amemeeting. funds from $19 million in Priva toward the rican Res- large portion 3 , with a COV Ano Plan part of American the COVID-19 cue te ID-19 Sma county’s lion ther $10 Act, y vehi a $1.9 cles only located toward funds al- ness lion milis set Rescue ll Busi plea smalse Plan bill, economic stim trill businesses assisting whic Rent Relief prog - the Keep to go toward economic hardship ulus is the third ram, Dini to COVID-1 L.A. Cou h due round of economic hardship. facing sista provides rental 9. nce to qual as- whicng grant prog nty Of the appr ram, lionAdditionally, $1.5 ified smal h provides busin oved fund s, debt esses that have renta l qualified sma grants to ty’s is set to fund the mil. counll busi l es that COV have been ness- Business ID-19 Small pacted and Lega have suffe im- gram to prov l Aid prored tance ide legal assis to small busin

By Emily esses.

Alvareng Signal a

ief progra

ms

Man in w heelchai Winte Trur ck that hit r struck man fle

Selling Sale

Senior Staff

d the sce by vehicl SE ne, suspec e LLING t remain SELL YOUR s outst and SANTA ing Displ ay Lot CAR SAFELY CLARIT

Writer

A man pital after in a wheelchair was parking lotbeing hit by a vehi transportedFor toCars, the RV’s, Boats The incid Tuesday morningcle in a Canyon Cou hos, Motorcycle s ntry a pedestria ent was reported . ing lot nearn involved in the as a traffic colli sion canyon road the intersecti Bank of America with on to Los Ang s shortly befo of Soledad and parkWhites Henry Narveles County Firere 10:45 a.m., acco Departm The truckaez. ent spok rding esman scene, and that hit the man repo the susp Tuesday rtedly fled afternoon ect remained outs the riaga, spok , accordin g to Dep tanding as of Sheriff’s eswoman fornge thersSant uty Natalie ArStati No stra at a Clar The man on. ita eValley hom was load No commiss your • 24 hou ed into an ions All ambulanceor Consignmen r security in unknown One t Fee Every weeDMV Pap erw pers s on is Dan Wats kend, inclu ork prov transported ided hitting a See STRU ding after a repo on/The Signal man in a CK,Frid A3 ay ca Drop wheelcha rt of a truck -off park ing ir

A

CRAIG

MARTIN City of Santa Clarita Poll 9/9/20 College of the Cany ons Parking Lo t

SATURDAY & SUNDAY2%… $50 SIX DAYS A WEEK … $99 E-EDITION … $50 661-255-

INDEX

26

lot on Sole

in dad Cany the Bank of Amerion Road on Tuesday.

Online.co22 Good mo m rning to Sig

AutoFair

Lottery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Opinion . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Weather . . . . . . .

A3 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Classified . . . . . . .

A4 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

A7 . . . . . . . . . . . . A7

nal subscri bers Gloria Villi lobos Douglas Rosanna Krantz Montam ayor 6

SANTA

DRE#019392

59

CLARITA’S

FA LL SE

PREMIE

R TEAM LL IN G SA LE

List Your

CRAIG MARTIN

Home Fo

DRE#019392

Include

661-466CraigMart

r

59

FREE MOs VE!

HOME

inHomes.

38188 00003

com

3

SINCE 1919

SignalSCV. com Santa Clarita’s Most Influential 2021 • The Signal 35

36 · Santa Clarita’s Most Influential 2021 • The Signal