In May of 2013, Sunland-Tujunga began a branding initiative, leveraging our proximity to the Angeles National Forest, the national icon’s growing importance nationwide, and its presence in digital media. “Gateway to the Angeles National Forest®” gave birth to a brand with the potential to maximize our return with minimal effort and resources. Those “returns” for Sunland-Tujunga include:
• Making us a “must-have” on short-lists when quality businesses are searching to open up a new store, a restaurant, an entertainment center, a bed and breakfast,
and so much more;
• Building our town’s awareness – who we are and what we have to offer – more quickly, given we don’t have to explain or constantly answer the question, “So
where is Sunland-Tujunga…?”; our brand immediately identifies our location;
• Declaring for everyone what we value and most affiliate ourselves with, that being nature, the environment, and our rural community, and in doing so, drawing
like-minded individuals and families and visitors to us;
• Allowing us to tap into the benefits of being a “gateway”: increased funding options specific to “gateways” to benefit Sunland-Tujunga, as well as, search engine
optimization opportunities to increase online positive presence;
• Empowering us with voice and choice, instead of just having to take whatever we can get…
• Some said it couldn’t be done. Some questioned why we would even want to do it. Some accused of wrongdoings, fanning flames of doubt and fear. Some have purposely stood in its way, not for the good of the town, but for their own personal agendas. Some have even made statements about how it’s been tried before and failed…saying that they “looked forward to saying ‘told ya so’”; thus, eagerly wanting to celebrate yet another failure.

On the flip side, several more people have applauded the effort, cheered it on, participated in its movement, and are a part of where we find ourselves today. So I’m happy to report that in the 17 months since having embarked on this journey, we have succeeded in a great many ways and for a great many reasons. And in this
year-end issue of the North Valley Reporter, we’re grateful for the opportunity to look back and to see just how far we’ve come, and to look to the future and to how much more we hope to do. So in “’Tis the Season…” style…