Q: We had some heavy rain earlier this year that left our hillsides beautifully green. But now, as the summer is heating up, they are turning dry and brown. What do people need to know about fire danger this year?
That's a great question. Yes, the hillsides around the city are beautiful, lush and green now, but as temperatures rise, that same vegetation quickly dries out and becomes fuel. So, while it may still look scenic, the fire risk is very real - and much higher than many people might expect. We take that very seriously as a city. In partnership with the Los Angeles County Fire Department, we're hosting a Fire Safety Day on Saturday, June 27, at Towsley Canyon. It's an engaging, hands-on way for residents to learn how to protect themselves and their homes. Participants will see live demonstrations, get hands-on experience with fire equipment and learn about brush clearance efforts - including goats - while exploring fire vehicles and watching a helicopter water drop. It's a great opportunity to see firsthand how our firefighters respond and what you can do to be prepared. At the end of the day, fire safety is a shared responsibility. Staying informed, preparing your home and making safe choices can make a real difference for you, your neighbors and our entire community.

Q: Many people are planning their summer vacations... but what about those of us who want to stay local? What do you recommend for a Santa Clarita staycation?
You don't have to go far to have an incredible summer - and Santa Clarita is the perfect place for a staycation. Start your day with an early-morning hike on one of the many trails in our beautiful open space, taking in the views before the heat sets in. Then, if you're looking for a little adrenaline, spend the afternoon at Six Flags Magic Mountain or cool off next door at Hurricane Harbor - two world-class attractions right in our backyard. From there, the fun keeps going all summer long. You can enjoy the amazing calendar of City of Santa Clarita events - from the Celebrate series at the Canyon Country Community Center to Concerts in the Park, presented by Logix Federal Credit Union, kicking off in July. And for those who enjoy the arts, The MAIN and Canyon Theatre Guild have great performances throughout the season. What makes a Santa Clarita staycation so special is that you get the full vacation experience - adventure, entertainment and relaxation - without ever leaving home.

Q: Another great event series is SENSES Block Party and the season is already underway. What can we expect for June SENSES?
SENSES Block Party is a local favorite and June is shaping up to be a really big one. On June 18, we're bringing the theme "Honey, I Shrunk SENSES" to Main Street in Old Town Newhall. It's all about stepping into a larger-than-life experience, with giant games and obstacles, high-energy live music, food trucks and an on-street bar for guests to enjoy. What makes SENSES so unique is right in the name. It's designed to be a fully-immersive experience that engages all of your senses. From the sights of themed decor and performances to the sounds of live music, the flavors of local food and drinks and the hands-on activities you can jump into, every detail is meant to create a fun, interactive atmosphere you can really feel. SENSES takes place every third Thursday from 7pm to 10pm and it's become one of our most popular events for a reason. It's a great chance to come out, connect with the community, explore Old Town Newhall and enjoy a night out in a festive, high-energy setting. Each month brings a new theme, so there's always something fresh to experience - but June's event is definitely one you won't want to miss. For more information, please visit oldtownnewhall.com.