First, a shout out to Mary Logian to thank her for the nice compliment about how I look like an early SCV pioneer, Sanford Lyon. Thanks, Mary. I’ve also been compared to Captain Phillips of Maersk, Ala., and Somali pirate fame. Some who dislike my commentaries compare me to other things. Why they want...

Santa Clarita’s curb appeal got a shot in the shoulder Monday morning when a group of officials from the city, county and the West Ranch Town Council took golden shovels to turned-over dirt. The ceremony was the official kickoff for a beautification project that will change the look of the city’s...