Summer in Santa Clarita is filled with so many fun things to do.  Here’s to the poolside barbecues with friends and family, trips to the beach, warm summer nights, staying up late, sleeping in and enjoying one of the many exciting events going on this month in our Valley.  There’s plenty to do, so we hope you are enjoying your summer while staying close to home, shopping locally and keeping cool!

We are very pleased to feature Captain Becker and the Santa Clarita Valley Sheriff’s Foundation on the cover of this issue.  Join us and show your support for the SCV Sherriff’s Foundation as they raise funds for a much-needed mobile command post at the SCV Sheriff’s Station.  Our city is one of the safest communities in the state, and we have our local law enforcement to thank for that.  Let’s continue to support their efforts to raise funds that will not only benefit the department, but also the safety of our community.  See our cover story on the facing page, and how you can enter to win a cruise for two!  Tickets for the Opportunity Drawing are only $5 each and there is no limit on how many you can purchase.
It’s summer, and you know what that means, Santa Clarita?  It’s time for the City’s popular and free Concerts in the Park series, every Saturday, beginning July 7 with The Shoemaker Brothers.  The Series will continue every Saturday through August 25.  It’s a perfect way to spend your summer evenings rockin’ out to great music with your neighbors, friends and family.  Learn more about the Series on page 23.
Poker enthusiasts, it’s time to ante up for the Michael Hoefflin Foundation.  On Saturday, July 14, there will be a Texas Hold’Em Poker Tournament at Diamond Jim’s Casino in Rosamond.  Bring your poker face and support a great cause.  See details on page 8.
Get those stilettos out and join the Soroptimist International of Greater Santa Clarita Valley as they will host their High Heel a Thon to stomp out domestic and dating violence, also on Saturday, July 14.  Gather on Main Street in Old Town Newhall and show your support!  Turn to page 19 for more information on the event.  
Despite the challenges of today’s economic realities, many businesses have demonstrated entrepreneurial success in the Santa Clarita Valley.  Let’s recognize and celebrate our local businesses and their achievements by voting for individuals, businesses or non-profit organizations for the first SCV Leadership Awards.  There’s still time to vote, and winners will be determined based on the number of votes received.  See page 3 for details about how to nominate, as well as the SCV Leadership Awards dinner.
It’s also time to vote for your favorites for the 2nd Annual élite Ultimate Home & Garden Awards.  Enter your name, tell us who you believe to be the best of the best and see if your favorites take top prize, as winners will be announced in the October/November issue of élite Magazine.  Turn to page 6 for more information.   
Are you new to The Magazine of Santa Clarita or haven’t advertised in awhile? Be a part of our Meet the New Merchants feature, and allow our readers to get to know a little more about you and your business. Turn to page 27 to see this month’s new merchants.
Finally, Fourth of July marks Independence Day.  Celebrate America’s birthday and take a moment to honor the soldiers who have served and are continuing to serve our country so we can enjoy the many freedoms we have today.  

Until Next Time,
Linda, Moe and Alex Hafizi