Q: This December, the City of Santa Clarita celebrates 35 wonderful years of cityhood. What can you say about this landmark anniversary?
It is amazing how much our city has evolved and all we have been able to accomplish thanks to the leadership of our city council. The city was originally 47 square miles with a population of more than 100,000 residents. Now, 35 years later, our population has nearly doubled. Our city is more than 70 square miles, offering our residents over 100 miles of off-street trails, more than 13,000 acres of preserved open space, three Metrolink stations, three libraries, two community centers, anti-drug programs for youth, hundreds of sports and recreation programs, the Aquatic Center, Santa Clarita Sports Complex, Skatepark, The Cube, Trek Bike Park of Santa Clarita, traffic and road improvements and more. We remain a responsive local organization, easily accessible to our residents and I am proud of the safe, high-quality of life that our community continues to enjoy in Santa Clarita.

Q: Speaking of community, the Santa Clarita Public Library is hosting its annual Family Literacy Festival early next month. What can residents expect?
This year's theme is "Ready! Set! Read!" and the event will offer programming and entertainment at the Santa Clarita Public Library Old Town Newhall Branch on Saturday, December 3, from 10am to 2pm. A new addition to this event will be the "Wonder Wheels," which will feature a variety of vehicles from the city's fleet, Santa Clarita Valley Sheriff's Station, Los Angeles County Fire Department and more. My favorite thing about the Family Literacy Festival is that it offers something for readers of all ages and abilities. I encourage everyone to attend this year's event and enjoy the many opportunities to learn and have fun.

Q: The Cube Ice and Entertainment Center is the new go-to place during the winter season and everyone in the city is looking forward to The Cube's second-annual Tree Lighting Ceremony and Holiday Skate Show. What can we expect from these events?
In addition to Light Up Main Street in Newhall, residents will also have the opportunity to attend the second-annual Tree Lighting Ceremony at The Cube on December 2. Come listen to a local high school choir sing Christmas classics and join us as we light up the massive Christmas tree on The Pond. After, be sure to stick around with friends and family for a public skate session and enjoy the Christmas decorations and lights. On Saturday, December 10, skaters will perform their own rendition of a classic holiday story, "How the Grinch Stole Christmas." During our inaugural show at the Cube last year, we sold out both sessions and are excited to welcome back a full house for this upcoming season. You can expect a great show while enjoying delicious food from The Grille at The Cube, which opened earlier this year. I encourage you to make a trip to The Cube this holiday season and enjoy the numerous activities and excitement to get you in the winter spirit!