Many California employers use bonuses to reward performance, recognize milestones, or incentivize productivity. But what some businesses may not realize is that certain bonus payments can also affect overtime calculations under California wage-and-hour laws.

In practice, this issue often arises when a bonus is processed separately through payroll and treated as a stand-alone payment — without considering whether it should also be factored into an employee’s “regular rate of pay.”

That distinction matters because California law may require some forms of compensation, including certain bonuses and incentive payments, to be included when calculating overtime obligations. And when a payroll practice is applied consistently across a workforce, even a small miscalculation can potentially create broader wage-and-hour exposure.

In a recent article, Renato Romero, Associate Attorney at Koegle Law Group, examines how seemingly routine bonus practices can raise larger compliance concerns for California employers.

The article discusses:

• Why some bonuses may need to be included in overtime calculations
• The difference between discretionary and non-discretionary bonus structures
• The importance of periodic payroll and compliance reviews as businesses grow

For business owners, HR professionals, and managers, these issues highlight the importance of regularly reviewing compensation practices—especially as organizations implement new incentive structures, performance programs, or retention strategies.

At Koegle Law Group, we work with California employers to provide practical, business-focused guidance on wage-and-hour compliance, workplace policies, and proactive risk management strategies designed to support long-term operational stability.

Read the full article here: How a Simple Bonus Could Turn Into a Class Action Lawsuit 

DISCLAIMER: This client alert is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. The information contained herein may not reflect the most current legal developments. You should consult with qualified legal counsel before taking any action based on the information in this alert. Receipt of this alert does not create an attorney-client relationship.

This article was originally published by Koegle Law Group, proudly serving businesses in Santa Clarita and beyond. This communication may be considered advertising material under the rules of professional conduct governing lawyers in California.

Most business owners know the nuts and bolts of visual marketing.

They know they need updated photos.
They know video matters.
They know their website, social media, email newsletters, and presentations all need visuals that feel current and professional.

But knowing that doesn’t always make it easy.

Because for many professionals, the hardest part of marketing isn’t the strategy.

It’s being seen.

Getting in front of the camera can bring up all kinds of things: uncertainty, self-consciousness, overthinking, or the quiet pressure to somehow look polished, approachable, confident, and “on brand” all at once.

And when you’re leading a business, serving clients, managing a team, and staying involved in the Santa Clarita community, it’s easy to put your own visibility at the bottom of the list.

We understand that.

At SchlickArt, we’ve spent years helping business owners, professionals, and personal brands feel more comfortable showing up in their marketing—not by forcing them into a version of themselves that doesn’t fit, but by helping them see the best version of who they already are.

That’s why professional photography and video are about so much more than looking good.

They’re about trust.

When your visuals feel authentic, current, and aligned with your brand, your audience starts to recognize you. They understand what you do, how you serve, and why your work matters.

And just as importantly, you start to feel more confident using your marketing.

That confidence changes everything.

You post more often because you finally have images you’re proud to share.
You update your website because your visuals actually reflect where your business is today.
You say yes to the speaking opportunity, the feature, the campaign, the newsletter.

Because you’re not scrambling anymore.

You’re prepared.

For local business owners, that kind of confidence is powerful. In a community like Santa Clarita, people do business with people they recognize, remember, and trust. Your marketing should help make that connection easier—not more overwhelming.

So if you’ve been waiting to “feel ready” before updating your marketing, maybe the better question is:

What kind of support would help you show up with more confidence? 

We’re sharing 13 ways SchlickArt helps professionals feel comfortable, prepared, and proud of how they show up in their marketing.

👉 Read the full article here: Capturing You in Your Best Light: 13 Ways We Help You Show Up With Confidence in Your Marketing

Originally published by SchlickArt, a Santa Clarita-based visual marketing company helping professionals and growing businesses build confidence through strategic photography, video, and marketing content.

 Great news—you can enjoy a summer night at the iconic Hollywood Bowl (yep, it’s an LA County Park!) for just $1 this season!

Through the Hollywood Bowl $1 Ticket Program, you’ll have access to select concerts featuring world-class artists, all for just $1 per ticket.

Here are the dates you’ll want to save:

• May 7, 2026 – Program website goes live and promo codes are distributed
• May 14, 2026 at 10AM – $1 tickets go on sale

Tickets are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Purchase tickets at: www.hollywoodbowl.com/1dollar

Before tickets go on sale:

• A promo code (emailed to you on May 7) is required
• You’ll need a Hollywood Bowl account to purchase

To create an account:

1. Visit https://my.hollywoodbowl.com/en/account/register
2. Enter your information
3. Make sure the email you use is one you can access—you’ll need it for updates
4. Hit “Create Account”

Next steps:

On May 7, check out the list of $1 concerts and look for your promo code.

On May 14 at 10AM, log in early and be ready to snag your tickets

You can grab up to 4 tickets per concert!  

If you need help along the way, the LA Phil team is happy to assist: Call 323‑850‑2000(10am–6pm daily) Email information@laphil.org

We hope you get to enjoy a magical night under the stars at the Hollywood Bowl this summer!

LOS ANGELES, CA - Los Angeles County Assessor Jeff Prang’s proposal to modernize the County’s Low Value Ordinance by increasing the threshold at which business personal property is subject to taxation from $5,000 to $10,000 has been approved.

The Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors adopted the ordinance during its Tuesday’s meeting and the change will now take effect the next assessment cycle.

The Low Value Ordinance establishes the minimum value at which small businesses are required to report and pay property taxes on items such as machinery, equipment, fixtures, and furniture. The current $5,000 threshold has remained unchanged for years, despite rising administrative costs and evolving economic conditions.

“Small businesses are the backbone of our local economy,” said Assessor Prang. “This proposal reduces unnecessary burdens on entrepreneurs while allowing our office to focus resources where they generate the greatest return for taxpayers.”

A recent internal study conducted by the Assessor’s Office found that it costs approximately $174 in staff time and administrative resources to process and assess a $5,000 business property account. By comparison, that assessment generates only about $50 in annual property tax revenue. This imbalance results in a net loss to the County and diverts resources away from higher-value assessments that more significantly support public services.

The study also estimates that approximately 43,000 small businesses across Los Angeles County would benefit from raising the threshold to $10,000, reducing compliance requirements and easing administrative burdens for a significant segment of the local business community.

“This is a common-sense reform,” Prang added. “We should not be asking small businesses to shoulder paperwork and tax obligations that cost more to administer than they return in public benefit.”

By raising the threshold, the Assessor’s Office would eliminate a category of assessments that cost more to administer than they produce in revenue, allowing staff to focus on higher-value properties that more effectively support essential public services.

The proposed update aligns with state law, which permits counties to set the Low Value Ordinance threshold up to $10,000. 

In addition to easing the burden on small businesses, the proposal is expected to allow the Assessor’s Office to redirect staff and resources toward higher-value property assessments, improving overall efficiency and helping to strengthen the County’s property tax base.

The Assessor’s Office has shared its analysis with the Treasurer and Tax Collector and the Auditor-Controller to review and comment as part of the standard policy development process.

In a significant expansion of its retail and dining portfolio, Centennial has announced a wave of 10 new openings at Valencia Town Center that will bring fresh experiences and increased economic momentum to the Santa Clarita Valley.

This strategic growth, spanning immersive entertainment, global cuisine and specialized retail, marks a major milestone in the center’s continued evolution as the region’s primary destination for shopping and social connection.

“We aren’t just adding stores, we are curating experiences,” said Michael de Leon, General Manager of Valencia Town Center. “From the high-energy gaming at Round1 to the communal dining of KPOT, these brands reflect the vibrant, family-oriented energy of Santa Clarita. Our goal is to ensure that every visit here offers something new and memorable.”

The new tenants are scheduled to open in phases throughout 2026 and 2027, with several marquee locations debuting this summer.

The new lineup features a mix of brands currently welcoming guests as well as anticipated destinations set to debut in the coming months:

New Tenants Announced

Round1 Bowling & Arcade: A 125K square foot entertainment complex featuring bowling, professional-grade billiards, karaoke and exclusive arcade games imported from Japan. This location will introduce Spo-cha, short for “Sports Challenge” and YUU Japanese Food Hall.

KPOT Korean BBQ & Hot Pot: A unique, hands-on dining experience that merges traditional Korean flavors with a modern, social atmosphere.

Bushfire Kitchen: Elevated American comfort food made from scratch, focusing on healthy, high-quality ingredients for the conscious diner.

Bacio di Latte: Authentic Italian-style gelato crafted with artisanal techniques and premium ingredients.

Panini Kabob Grill: Fresh, scratch-made Mediterranean cuisine featuring kabobs, paninis and salads delivered with a focus on nutritional value.

Madison Reed: A modern hair color bar offering professional-grade, clean-ingredient color services and retail products.

Cinnabon: The world-famous bakery known for its signature cinnamon rolls and indulgent treats.

Trelen: A California-based retail startup offering curated deals on electronics, jewelry and apparel.

Now Open

Pharmacy Boardshop: A Southern California staple since 1997, bringing authentic skate culture, exclusive apparel and community-driven events to the SCV.

Slice House: Founded by Tony Gemignani, offering a variety of styles, including New York, Detroit, Grandma and Sicilian pizzas, all made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients.

Wafflecomb: A whimsical dessert shop specializing in Hong Kong-style bubble waffles paired with various soft-serve flavors.

Expansion of J David: A premier destination for men’s clothing, offering a range of services from custom-tailored suits and tuxedos to accessories.

Expansion of Pandora: World’s largest jewelry brand, specializing in the design, crafting and marketing of accessible luxury jewelry made from high-quality materials.

Newly renovated lululemon: Known for high-quality yoga, running and training gear, blending performance, lifestyle and community engagement.

For more information on tenant opening dates and grand opening events, please visit valenciatowncenter.com or follow @ValenciaTownCenter on social media.

Bringing Resources, Advocacy, and Community Support to Santa Clarita Valley

Special Needs Network invites the Santa Clarita Valley community to celebrate the Grand Opening of its new Valencia Regional Office with a ribbon cutting ceremony on Wednesday, May 6, from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. This milestone marks an important expansion of services, bringing critical resources and support closer to families and individuals in the region.

Located at 25115 Avenue Stanford, Suite A111 in Valencia, the new office reflects Special Needs Network’s continued commitment to increasing access, strengthening communities, and expanding opportunities for individuals with autism and developmental disabilities.

As a leading community-based organization serving thousands of families across Southern California, Special Needs Network provides a wide range of services, including autism support, caregiver resources, and workforce development initiatives designed to create meaningful pathways to independence and economic mobility.

The Grand Opening celebration will bring together community partners, families, service providers, and local leaders to mark this important moment. The program will include an official ribbon cutting ceremony, remarks from Areva Martin, Founder and CEO of Special Needs Network, a representative from the City of Santa Clarita, as well as representatives from Congressman Whitesides’ office and Assemblywoman Schiavo’s office.

Guests will also have the opportunity to connect with community members and explore the work happening within the new space. The event will offer light refreshments and provide an opportunity to learn more about the programs and services now available in the Santa Clarita Valley.

This expansion represents more than a new location. It reflects Special Needs Network’s ongoing mission to build inclusive systems of support and ensure that families have access to the resources they need within their own communities.

For more information and to RSVP, please visit https://rebrand.ly/snnvgo

California Institute of the Arts in Valencia has been included in Graphic Design USA’s 2026 list of the nation’s top design schools, a roundup from the industry publication highlighting programs that “blend craft, innovation and critical thinking” in preparing students for evolving creative industries.

In an email announcing the selection, a GDUSA editor noted that the recognition reflects “program strength, faculty dedication and students’ talent and ambition.”

Earlier this year, the publication also named BFA4 students Kora Chiu and Maria Garsa as GDUSA 2026 Students to Watch.

Housed within the School of Art, CalArts’ Graphic Design Program fosters individual approaches to design through rigorous inquiry, experimentation and critique-driven studio practice. Coursework spans print, web, UI/UX, motion, typography, branding, history and theory, with an emphasis on developing both formal and conceptual skills.

Students work in small, collaborative studio environments that encourage interdisciplinary exchange across Cal Arts’ six schools, supporting a wide range of creative and professional pathways after graduation.

To learn more about the Graphic Design Program at CalArts visit https://calarts.edu/academics/programs-and-degrees/bfa-graphic-design.

Websites and digital tools are now a core part of daily operations—not just a marketing asset, but a place where customer and employee data is regularly collected and processed.

One important point to keep in mind: data privacy obligations are continuing to evolve, particularly under California law. Businesses that collect, store, or use personal information through their websites may face compliance considerations that are not always obvious.

For business owners, HR professionals, and managers, this creates a practical need to understand how website functionality, third-party tools, and internal data practices can influence potential exposure to cyber liability.

In our latest blog, we explore these issues in more detail, including:

• The types of data your website may be gathering
• Common compliance gaps in website privacy policies and disclosures
• How plaintiffs’ attorneys are currently targeting companies
• How cyber liability can arise from everyday business operations
• Why proactive review of your data practices can support long-term compliance

At Koegle Law Group, we work with California employers and business owners to navigate evolving compliance obligations while supporting practical, business-focused legal solutions. For ongoing insights, we also maintain an educational resource library designed to help California employers stay informed on evolving workplace and business law topics.

Read the full article here:
https://www.koeglelaw.com/2026/03/03/california-website-data-privacy-cyber-liability-what-business-owners-need-to-know/

 DISCLAIMER: This client alert is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. The information contained herein may not reflect the most current legal developments. You should consult with qualified legal counsel before taking any action based on the information in this alert. Receipt of this alert does not create an attorney-client relationship.

This article was originally published by Koegle Law Group, proudly serving businesses in Santa Clarita and beyond. This communication may be considered advertising material under the rules of professional conduct governing lawyers in California.

Have you ever wondered how to build a brand or marketing plan in the right order—and why it feels so much harder than it should?

For most people, it usually looks like:

A photoshoot here. A few videos there. A strategy that sounds good, but never quite makes it down on paper.

Excellent pieces. Just not connected.

That’s where most businesses get stuck. Not because they’re doing too little, but because everything they’re doing lives in separate buckets.

But when you step back and build it with an intentional order, everything changes.

Each step supports the next. Each decision makes the next one easier. And suddenly, it’s clear how everything fits together.

We had a client experience like that recently—the kind where you can feel the shift happening in real time. Where it stops being about “what should I post?” and starts becoming, “this is how it all connects.”

And what made this one different?

She wasn’t testing the waters or hoping to figure things out as she went. After more than 25 years running a successful business, she already understood something most people learn the hard way:

How you start matters. 

Because building a brand in order changes everything.

If you’ve ever wondered what it looks like to build a brand in the right order, we’re sharing one client's step-by-step journey from idea to launch.

👉 https://schlickart.com/blog/building-a-brand-in-the-right-order/ 

Originally published by SchlickArt, a Santa Clarita–based fractional marketing team serving professional service organizations and growing businesses.

SCV Water Invites Community to Ribbon Cutting for New PFAS Treatment Project

The Santa Clarita Valley Water Agency (SCV Water) will host a ribbon cutting ceremony on Wednesday, April 29, 2026, at 9:00 a.m., to celebrate the completion of the T&U Wells and Saugus 1 & 2 Wells PFAS Treatment Project at the Rio Vista Intake Pump Station. The project represents a major investment in public health and local groundwater reliability.

The project restores groundwater production from five existing wells that were previously taken out of service due to per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) and volatile organic compound (VOC) impacts, allowing them to safely return to operation using advanced water treatment technology.

Ribbon Cutting – T&U Wells and Saugus 1 & 2 Wells PFAS Treatment Project

When: Wednesday, April 29, 2026, at 9:00 a.m.

Where: Rio Vista Intake Pump Station, 25401 Bouquet Canyon Road, Santa Clarita, CA 91350

Who: Santa Clarita Valley Water Agency

Attendance: Open to the public

RSVP Required: Email Senior Communications Specialist Laura Gallegos at lgallegos@scvwa.org to be placed on the attendee list by April 24, 2026.

ABOUT THE PROJECT

The T&U Wells and Saugus 1 & 2 Wells PFAS Treatment Project restores up to 3,450 gallons per minute of local groundwater supply — enough water to serve approximately 5,000 families each year. The approximately $22.7 million project, paid in part by grant funding from the California Department of Water Resources, United States Environmental Protection Agency, and the State Water Resources Control Board, strengthens drought resilience while reducing reliance on imported water.

We at the @scv.lgbtq.center are excited to the launch of the Partners of the Center Program to complement out "Friends of the Center" Program!

Do you own or know a business that would love to support our community? Now is your chance to stand with us to build towards our future and help all LGBTQ+ residents of Santa Clarita.

With $75 a month you will help us expand our services and create needed events and resources.

Along with the same benefits of the "Friends of the Center" program, your business will be included in our partner sponsorship program. After a three month period, we will include your business on event announcements, include you on all event flyers, give special opportunities for you to advertise at our events, and if we get enough business, we will hold mixers at your spaces to ensure maximum visibility.

Please join us as we make change to Santa Clarita. Our goal is to build a program that funds our community, by the community. Now is the time to join as we have a special event planned for July (announcement at the end of April👀) and the upcoming Pride Picnic in October‼

(As a friendly reminder, the "Friends of the Center" program is live for anyone that wants to help individually)

To sign up, follow one of the methods below and feel free to contact us with any questions
📱 Text SCVLGBTQCENTER to 53-555, or us directly at 661-238-7178
🔗Go to the Givebutter link - https://givebutter.com/scv-lgbtq-center-inc
🔗Go to our website at https://www.scvlgbtqcenter.org/donate
📨 Email us at scvlgbtqcenter.com or bryce@scvlgbtqcenter.org

There are practical steps importers can take now to prepare for potential IEEPA tariff refunds. Use this guide to understand eligibility and navigate the refund process.

The U.S. Supreme Court’s recent decision striking down the tariffs imposed under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) has opened the door for many U.S. small businesses and importers to seek refunds. However, determining whether your business qualifies—and understanding what steps to take next—can be challenging.

As the refund process is constructed, this guide provides information to help businesses identify whether they paid IEEPA based tariffs, understand what types of duties may be eligible for refunds, and prepare for the emerging refund process.

In this article:

• The latest updates on the IEEPA refund process
• Step-by-step guide for importers to receive refunds and what to do right now
• Questions to discuss with your customs broker or trade counsel

The Latest: Customs and Border Protection (CBP) has started to release details for a refund process. This agency—which collects all U.S. tariffs and will be responsible for refunding all the IEEPA tariffs collected—expects to launch the system on or around April 20, 2026. Refunds are only available for tariffs applied under IEEPA.

The tariff refund system will distribute refunds to importers through a CBP online, automated system. Importers can take practical steps now to be ready if refunds become available.

4 Things Importers Can Do Now to Prepare for Potential Tariff Refunds

1. Update Importer Record Info

Make sure your CBP importer record (Form 5106) for your company is up-to-date and includes an email address that is not your broker’s email (required for authentication).

Note: Licensed custom brokers have access to the ACE Secure Data Portal and can update Form 5106.

2. Create an ACE Portal Account

Create an account in CBP’s Automated Commercial Environment Secure Data Portal (ACE Portal). This will enable your company to run reports and download entry data to show IEEPA tariff payments for which your company may seek refunds.

Note: Some importers have reported new ACE account setup takes 3-4 weeks.

3. Enroll in ACH Refund

Sign up for Automated Clearinghouse (ACH) Refund. CBP requires ACH enrollment to receive duty refunds electronically. After enrolling for ACH refunds, any refund you receive will automatically be deposited directly into your bank account. Companies may wish to consult with their customs broker or trade counsel.

4. Identify Exceptions

Determine whether all of your IEEPA entries will be covered in the system's initial rollout, or whether you have entries that are within the two exceptions identified below. If you have entries that fall within the two exceptions, you should consult with your customs broker and lawyer to evaluate whether further action is needed to preserve your right to a refund.

Enroll Now - Refunds Are Fully Electronic

Importers need to sign up for Automated Clearinghouse (ACH) Refund. ACH enrollment is required to receive refunds electronically and automatically deposited into your bank account. Reports indicate few importers have taken this step: Act now to be ready when the refund process is formally launched.

• Enroll in ACH Refund

Refund Process Updates

• After the Supreme Court’s Feb. 20 decision on IEEPA, the U.S. Court of International Trade (CIT) ordered the government to take immediate action on refunds.
• On March 6, Customs and Border Protection (CBP) submitted a plan for an expedited and simplified tariff refund system to the CIT. CBP indicated it would be able to create and launch the tariff refund system within 45 days (by around April 20).
• On March 12, CBP released new details of a 4-step refund system. Those steps are detailed above.

The U.S. Chamber welcomed the CBP proposal, and we expect to learn more from the administration in the days ahead.

Two Exceptions to IEEPA Tariff Refunds

The system will not immediately apply to all IEEPA entries. There are two exceptions:

1. Liquidated Entries

When the system first launches, it will only apply to unliquidated entries and entries within the 90-day voluntary reliquidation period. CBP plans to expand the system to cover entries for which liquidation has become final, but it has not specified a date by which it will do so.

2. Other Exceptions

CBP has stated that the following categories of entries subject to IEEPA duties will not be processed through this system, at least initially:

• Entries that have been flagged for reconciliation, as well as Entry Type 09;
• Entries designated on a drawback claim;
• Entries covered by an open protest;
• Entries not filed in ACE, and entries without a liquidation status is ACE; and
• Entries subject to AD/CVD, for which DOC has issued liquidation instructions, that are pending liquidation.

Bottom Line: Your customs broker can help you evaluate the liquidation status of your entries and whether any of your entries fall into these categories.

Watch: What the Supreme Court Decision Means for Small Business