Q: The talk around town is about the new Canyon Country Community Center. What will this new facility offer to the community?
This project was truly a landmark accomplishment for the city and we are thrilled to finally invite residents inside. The new facility has completely transformed this area of Santa Clarita at the corner of Soledad Canyon Road and Sierra Highway. Where there were once auto body shops and giant billboards, residents now see acres of parkland, lush landscaping, inspiring public art pieces and the centerpiece of the 9-acre site, the new Canyon Country Community Center. Inside, community members will be able to get in shape with exercise classes, kids can discover a love of dancing or hone their basketball skills, people can find a new hobby, take part in the popular salsa dance nights and even learn how to cook in the demonstration teaching kitchen. Step outside of the facility and you can shoot some hoops on the basketball court, play on the play structure, enjoy live entertainment with family and friends at the event stage and go for a stroll on the meandering walking paths. This new facility is sure to be a hub for community gatherings and enrichment. To find out more, please visit santa-clarita.com/cccc.

Q: What are the plans for Light Up Main Street this year?
We are thrilled that Light Up Main will be back again this year - and bigger and brighter than ever. The event will kick off with the tree lighting on Saturday, November 20, in front of the Old Town Newhall Library. This year's event will have live holiday entertainment on the main stage, festive activities for the whole family, shopping at the Fine Craft Show, food trucks, the chance to take photos with Santa himself and snow! Inside SCV's Jeanna Crawford of Jeanna Loves Christmas also designed the centerpiece of the whole event, the giant Christmas tree, that is covered in more than 3,000 ornaments. Make sure you leave time to admire the holiday decor that is up and down Main Street. There are a variety of decorative light structures that give you a one-of-a-kind opportunity for Instagram-worthy holiday photos. These include a giant ribbon arch welcoming visitors to the area, as well as a 6-foot-tall selfie frame. For more information please follow @CityofSantaClaritaEvents on Facebook.

Q: Speaking of the holidays, the shopping season is almost here. Tell us about shopping locally this year.
I encourage all residents to do their holiday shopping here in Santa Clarita. This last year and a half was extremely challenging for our local businesses and they need our support now more than ever. We are fortunate to have a diverse and unique group of local businesses and artisans. When you shop at these local stores, you are helping your neighbors, your community and yourself by bolstering the economic vitality of our city. Dollars spent in Santa Clarita are dollars that can support programs and services that help enrich the community. Whether you visit the
on-trend boutiques in Old Town Newhall, the unique shops in Canyon Country or explore all that's available at Westfield Valencia Town Center, you are sure to find the perfect gift for everyone on your holiday shopping list.