As we jump into the new year, what are some offerings around the city to help achieve those New Year's resolutions?
With all the amenities our city has to offer, there is something for everyone to help accomplish their New Year's resolutions. With over 13,000 acres of open space and more than 100 miles of off-street trails, residents looking to get active can lace up their running shoes and get their steps in. For those looking to learn a new skill or meet some new people, our three community centers offer a wealth of contract classes for all ages. Offering everything from a variety of dance classes, to art or even learning a new language, finding your next hobby is as easy as picking up our Seasons magazine. You can check out a full list of classes by visiting santaclarita.gov/seasons. If traveling is on the list, be sure to make an appointment with the Santa Clarita Public Library for our Passport Services. All three branches offer new passports, renewals, replacements and passport photos to make traveling the world a reality. For more information on passport services, please visit santaclaritalibrary.com/passports.

As the city continues to grow, we're seeing more and more amenities added. What can we expect this year?
We have an exciting year coming up for the city - and plenty to look forward to. December brought us the opening of the Valencia Community Center, featuring the City's first indoor pool. What better way to celebrate than jumping into a pool and taking a leisurely swim in the middle of winter? The community can also look forward to the much-anticipated transfer of the historic William S. Hart Park from the County of Los Angeles. This 160-acre park will offer the Hart Museum and Mansion, a herd of bison, hiking trails and the opportunity for new city programming. Speaking of parks, enhancements to Old Orchard park will be completed this year. As one of the city's oldest parks, Old Orchard Park is getting some much-needed attention. Residents can expect a brand-new playground, complete with a shade structure, an ADA-compliant restroom and upgraded sports courts.
We also have two projects making great strides this year for anticipated completion in 2026. The Rink Sports Pavilion has started construction and, once completed, will be a 12,000-square-foot facility located next to the gymnasium at the Santa Clarita Sports Complex. This multi-use rink will offer rollerskating, a full-sized basketball court, three pickleball courts, a volleyball court, spectator seating, a commercial kitchen, DJ booth and much more. Perfect for all your recreational needs, date night or birthday parties, The Rink is sure to be a top spot to visit. David March Park has some equally exciting changes coming. The park will be expanded by eight acres, making room for a new basketball court with sport-court lighting, a picnic pavilion and an exercise equipment area. And for those that can't get enough of the exercise staircase at Central Park, David March Park will be introducing the city's second staircase, featuring 116 steps that stretch up the hillside. With all this and more coming, 2025 is set to be a great year of new adventures and experiences.

Can you tell us a little bit about the Martin Luther King Unity Walk coming up?
The MLK Unity Walk is held every year at Central Park, 27150 Bouquet Canyon Road, on Martin Luther King Jr. Day, which falls on Monday, January 20, this year. Residents are invited to join members of the City Council at 8am as well as powerful guest speakers who will touch upon the core values of Dr. King. This year's theme is "Mission Possible: Protecting Freedom, Justice and Democracy in the Spirit of Nonviolence365," honoring his life and impact. This event is a perfect way to bring the community together and celebrate the life of a man who was dedicated to human rights, equality and nonviolence. The impact of Dr. King's legacy will live on for generations to come, inspiring our youth to seek out love and unity, instead of violence. Following the opening comments, attendees will walk alongside each other, offering an opportunity to spark conversation and step forward as a united front. This event is free to the public and no advance registration is required.