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November, 2026 - Issue #255

Mercedes-Benz of Valencia's Charity Drive Program
Donates Over $21,000 to Local Santa Clarita Nonprofits

Mercedes-Benz of Valencia has donated more than $21,000 to Santa Clarita nonprofits
since March of 2026, continuing a longstanding commitment to giving back to the community it calls home through its Charity Drive program. Under the program, Mercedes-Benz of Valencia donates $100 to a local organization for every new car sold to a Santa Clarita resident. Recent recipients include Child & Family Center ($3,900), Carousel Ranch ($4,600) the Boys & Girls Club of Santa Clarita Valley ($5,100), Santa Clarita Senior Center ($5,300) and LA County Animal Care Foundation ($2,900).
"Every car we sell is a chance to do a little more good
in the community we call home."
Shawn Khan, general manager of Mercedes-Benz of Valencia
"Every car we sell is a chance to do a little more good in the community we call home," said Shawn Khan, general manager of Mercedes-Benz of Valencia. "Whether it's supporting local kids, our senior community, or the animals who need us most, we want our customers to know their purchase makes a real difference right here in Santa Clarita."
"The Mercedes-Benz of Valencia team is a loyal supporter of Santa Clarita children and teens," said Matt Nelson, CEO of Boys & Girls Club of Santa Clarita Valley. "This generous investment in our youth will help our local Club provide safe, nurturing space for SCV children to thrive academically, physically and emotionally."
"On behalf of the ACF, we are incredibly grateful to Mercedes-Benz of Valencia for their generous donation," said Renee Sikand, president of the Los Angeles County Animal Care Foundation. "Their support will help so many pets and families in need, especially during these challenging economic times." Past Charity Drive recipients also include Carousel Ranch and The Child & Family Center, among others, reflecting the dealership's continued investment across a wide range of causes throughout the Santa Clarita Valley.
Mercedes-Benz of Valencia's mission is simple: to put a Mercedes in every Santa Clarita driveway. The dealership prides itself on "never saying no" and works hard to connect Santa Clarita residents.
mbzvalencia.com
courtesy of Shutterstock
courtesy of Shutterstock

Why Unmarried Couples Need Estate Planning
The law gives married couples and registered domestic partners certain rights, including the right to care for a partner and to inherit from them when they pass. But the law does not give the same rights to long-term, unmarried relationships. Contrary to what many believe, California does not recognize common law marriages, no matter how long the couple has lived together.
While not perfect, estate planning can help an unmarried couple take care of each other in the event of incapacity or death.
For example, an unmarried couple can name each other to act on their behalf in the event of incapacity or death. Wills can name each other as heirs. Trusts can be used to take care of a partner for the remainder of their life. Without an estate plan, a surviving partner might find themselves sidelined by a deceased person's family. Unfortunately, there are limits to what an estate plan can do. For example, an estate plan cannot give a surviving partner survivorship rights for Social Security or a pension. It cannot override beneficiaries of an insurance policy or bank account. There are many tax benefits for a surviving spouse that don't apply to a surviving partner, including registered domestic partners. Anyone in a committed, unmarried relationship needs to speak with an estate planning attorney to see what options are available and how to get their plan into place.
Law Attorney Michael Yeager 471-2177

The Legacy Behind the Friendship Dealership
Some businesses are defined by what they sell. Others are defined by the people and values behind them. When Don and Cheri Fleming purchased Valencia Acura in 1997, they set out to build more than a successful dealership. They created a culture centered on friendship, loyalty and a genuine commitment to Santa Clarita. With Don's recent passing, those values have never felt more meaningful.
From the beginning, theirs was a business built on relationships. Don and Cheri believed customers should be treated like friends and that a local business should give back to the community that supports it. Those simple ideas became the foundation of what would come to be known as the "Friendship Dealership." Under their leadership, Valencia Acura grew from a struggling dealership into one recognized nationally for customer satisfaction and loyalty. Along the way came numerous Acura Precision Team Awards and other industry honors.
Both Don and Cheri would tell you that awards were never the whole story. The real measure of Valencia Acura has always been the people: longtime customers who became friends, employees who became family and generations of Santa Clarita residents who have trusted us with their vehicles. Today, Don's son, Brian Fleming, continues the family business and the values that have defined Valencia Acura for nearly 30 years. As we remember Don, we are reminded that a legacy isn't simply what someone leaves behind. It is what others carry forward. Valencia Acura is proud to carry forward the legacy Don and Cheri created.
valenciaacura.com
courtesy of Shutterstock
courtesy of Shutterstock

You're 12 Weeks Away from a Real Career in the Dental Field
At the Santa Clarita School of Dental Assisting, students can begin a real career in just 12 weeks. This program teaches the skills, confidence and California certifications needed to enter the dental profession fast. Dental assistants change lives every day, helping patients in pain who just want to smile again. We only live once - so now is the time to start a career, start earning and start making a difference!
startyourcareertoday.com

25 Years of making Community Banking About Relationships
For 25 years, Mission Valley Bank has remained committed to a simple idea: banking is about relationships. Founded in 2001, the California community bank provides responsive, locally-managed financial services to businesses, professionals, nonprofits and individuals throughout Southern California. Through economic challenges, including the Great Recession and COVID-19 pandemic, the bank has remained focused on supporting clients and strengthening the communities it serves. Today, Mission Valley Bank serves clients from offices in Sun Valley, Burbank, Santa Clarita and Arcadia, extending its relationship-focused approach to businesses and residents throughout the San Gabriel Valley, including Monrovia. "Reaching our 25th anniversary reflects the trust our clients have placed in us over the years," said Tamara Gurney, president and CEO. "Our focus remains the same: supporting our clients, strengthening our communities and building lasting relationships." As Mission Valley Bank looks ahead, it remains committed to personalized service, local expertise and helping Southern California businesses and communities thrive.
missionvalleybank.com

Richard Photo Lab has been SCV's Film Processing Partner for Over Two Decades
Whether you're developing film from a student project, family photos, everyday memories or even rolls you've had sitting around for a while, Richard Photo Lab should be your first choice. Shop local, process local!
For over 20 years, Richard Photo Lab has been beloved by professional photographers, enthusiasts and everyone who appreciates crisp, beautiful photographs that are developed quickly, precisely - and with a smile.
The Richard Photo Lab team doesn't just obsess over your film - they also are committed to providing Santa Clarita with a premium selection of photo print products like canvas, acrylic and metal prints in addition to traditional printed photos. Parker Jordan Fine Art & Framing and Richard Photo Lab are all conveniently located in the same suite in Santa Clarita.
richardphotolab.com
INFINITI of Valencia
INFINITI of Valencia

INFINITI of Valencia Earns Prestigious 2026 INFINITI Award of Excellence
The INFINITI Award of Excellence recognizes select retailers who exceed INFINITI's rigorous standards of excellence and demonstrate mastery of INFINITI's Total Ownership Experience. This is a national distinction given to fewer than one in five retailers annually. INFINITI of Valencia was celebrated for delivering personalized customer service that exceeds expectations and embodies the "One Mindset - One Experience - One Team" philosophy.
infinitiofvalencia.com

"We're proud to be named OFFICIAL COLLISION CENTER for Frontier Toyota, Audi Valencia, Nissan of Valencia, Infiniti of Valencia, Kia of Valencia and Mazda of Valencia,"
Joseph Baghdadlian, owner of Luxury Collision Center
Understanding the Collision Repair Process After an Accident
The collision repair process begins with a thorough assessment of your vehicle. The certified technicians at Luxury Collision Group examine all damage, including hidden structural issues that may not be immediately visible. Using advanced diagnostic equipment, they create a comprehensive damage report and provide a detailed estimate that breaks down all necessary repairs, parts and labor costs. This transparent approach ensures you understand exactly what work will be performed and why it's necessary for your vehicle's safety and appearance.
If you're filing an insurance claim, they will work directly with your insurance company to streamline the process. Their team handles all communication and paperwork, making the claims process hassle-free. LCG provides the necessary documentation
and works with adjusters to ensure all damage is properly covered, advocating on your behalf to ensure you receive fair compensation for quality repairs. Free quotes with a response within 24 hours can be scheduled at your convenience online.
luxurycollisiongroup.com
Nissan of Valencia
Nissan of Valencia

You Serve, You Save
Nissan of Valencia's "Operation: Appreciation" Offers Discounts to Military

As a way to say "thank you" for their service, members of US military personnel - active, reserve, retired or veterans - save an additional $500 on their purchase, which can be combined with all current national and regional incentives. Surviving spouses and Gold Star Families are also eligible for this offer. See the dealership for full details.
nissanofvalencia.com
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