“You cannot share your life with a dog…or a cat, and not know perfectly well that animals have personalities and minds and feelings.” – Jane Goodall Throughout my entire life, I have surrounded myself with animals, whether it is my beloved donkey, cattle dogs or horses, animals truly do have...

As a longtime Santa Clarita resident, I believe one of our community’s most important responsibilities is the preservation of our rich history and beautiful open spaces. Located in the heart of Newhall is one of our greatest treasures, the William S. Hart Park. Abundant in rich Western history, this...

“The holiday season is a perfect time to reflect on our blessings and seek out ways to make life better for those around us.” – Anonymous Reflecting on this past year, there are so many things to be thankful for. Whether it is our health, happiness or the ability to live in a community as special...

As a longtime Santa Clarita resident, I have enjoyed watching our beautiful city transform over the years. In 1987, Santa Clarita was just 39 square miles—fast forward 37 years and we now span 73 square miles. We started with seven parks and now have 38. The new city had zero open space and we now...

After being part of the Parks and Recreation Commission in the early 90s and spending nearly 30 years on the City Council, my life has been dedicated to creating a community where residents and businesses feel welcomed and safe here in Santa Clarita. From our award-winning facilities, 38 parks, miles...

Celebrating Our Heroes and Open Spaces “Everybody needs beauty as well as bread, places to play in and pray in, where nature may heal and cheer and give strength to body and soul.” This quote by John Muir in his book “The Yosemite” perfectly articulates the importance of our environment and its...

“Our debt to the heroic men and valiant women in the service of our country can never be repaid. They have earned our undying gratitude. America will never forget their sacrifices.” – President Harry S. Truman Throughout American history, few occasions resonate with as much solemnity and reverence...

Strolling through William S. Hart Park, you start to smell the delicious scent of peach cobbler in the air, you hear the sound of blacksmiths hammering their anvils and enthusiastic “yippe ki-yays!” and see lots of line dancing, buffalo soldiers and trick ropers. Where do you find yourself? I’m...

Find Your “Furever” Friend at the Castaic Animal Care Center! “Dogs don’t make judgments about physical appearance or abilities, and they don’t care how big your house is or what you can do for a living. They care about the quality of your character and your capacity to love.” –...

Safe Trails in the New Year As we step into the new year, I find myself eagerly anticipating the adventures that lie ahead. As a long-time resident and former parks commissioner of the city of Santa Clarita, I have always been captivated by the simple joy of hiking and embracing the great outdoors. Our...