People like businesswoman-philanthropist  Roberta Veloz just seem to know how to get things done.
    Whether it’s making wise decisions for their own company or for the betterment of their community, they regularly dig deep into their minds, pockets and energies to ensure needs are met and visions become reality.
    In recognition of Veloz’ contributions to the Santa Clarita Valley, the Betty Ferguson Foundation lauded her as their “Woman of Honor 2002” at a Hyatt Valencia dinner gala held Sunday.
    The celebratory event was attended by some 400 guests and emceed by Cheri and Don Fleming, co-owners of Valencia Acura. While golf and marriage jokes and NBA playoff scores abounded, the Fleming’s overall theme was one of reverence for the woman honored that evening.
    Cheri Fleming, last year’s inaugural Woman of Honor, called it a special treat to bestow the accolade on Veloz.
    “There is no one like Roberta and no one who deserves this recognition more,” Cheri Fleming said. “I was honored last year to receive this award from the Betty Ferguson Foundation, it was a Cinderella night for me. Tonight, it gives me the greatest pleasure to pass it on to her...she is my mentor, my hero, my friend.”
    Veloz, the chief executive officer of Aquafine Corp., a five-decade leader in ultraviolet water purification, has given her time, ideas and financial support to many local causes including: breast cancer awareness/the new state-of-the-art digital breast imaging facility at Henry Mayo Newhall Memorial Hospital; the United Way, the Santa Clarita Valley Boys and Girls Club, the Samuel Dixon Family Health Center, Soroptimist International, the SCV Child and Family Center, the American Red Cross, the American Cancer Society, Girl Scouts, the SCV Committee on Aging and the Betty Ferguson Foundation.
    Don Fleming, who periodically shouted out Laker game stats throughout the gala, noted the event was held on an integral night for basketball enthusiasts.
    “There is no other woman in this community who could draw such a large crowd of men away from their television sets during the Lakers’ playoff game as Roberta Veloz,” Fleming said.
    The Betty Ferguson Foundation is a non-profit organization formed in 1998. Named in memory of a philanthropic woman — the mother of its co-founder, Judy Cox — its mission is to support the personal and professional growth of women and youth. They do so by offering mentoring, tutoring, seminars, scholarships, book clubs, workshops, social groups, and community resource referrals.
    “This is a chance to honor women who have a passion to serve,” Judy Cox said. “We want to give Roberta Veloz the recognition she deserves for her generous and faithful contributions.”
    The Betty Ferguson Foundation’s board of directors includes: founders Judy Cox and her sister-in-law, Marjanne Priest; Santa Clarita Councilman Cameron Smyth, Linda Hafizi of The Magazine of Santa Clarita, Cheri Fleming, Randy Howard, director, Dept. of Water and Power, City of Los Angeles and Kim Shafer, MFT, SCV Child and Family Center.
    Proceeds from the fund-raiser soiree will aid the Betty Ferguson Foundation in their mission to train, develop and empower woman and youth to become vital forces in society. One of their long-term goals is to build a community center in Santa Clarita for women and youth, to include training in such areas as budget planning, film editing, sound recording and computer skills.
    Popular radio and television personality Stephanie Edwards served as guest speaker. Best known as a Tournament of Roses Parade commentator for 19 years and as a spokesperson for Lucky Food Stores, the affable, candid Edwards shot straight from the hip.
    She told of working in Hollywood and having a wealthy image despite her and her husband Murray’s financial woes, brought on by taking bad investment advice.
    Edwards spoke of getting older and of a now less-than-bustling show business career. “I used to go to auditions but I now go to doctor’s appointments,’ she mused philosophically.
    Veloz was described by Edwards as a woman who does not go toward the spotlight, but instead towards accomplishment. She asked the audience to reflect on several key ideas about what truly defines a successful human being.
    “Who am I despite what I do for a living?” she posed to the gathering. “Do I give out goodness for free, without expecting anything in return? Do I give credit where credit is due? Am I known by friends and foes alike for my honesty?”
    Such qualities not only identify a humanitarian, they illustrate Veloz’s character, Edwards said.
    “The lady we honor tonight gives out goodness for free, she is known for her honesty and she serves as a mentor,” Edwards said. “That’s what makes the world go ’round and you are like an engine, Roberta. God bless you.”
    Following Edwards’ speech and the thunderous applause it received, Veloz was accompanied to the stage by her two sons, David, who lives locally, and Peter, who flew in from Texas to attend the gala.
    “I am extremely proud of two accomplishments in my life, my sons...they are the joy of my life and the father of my seven grandchildren,” Roberta Veloz said.
    A gracious Veloz said she was overwhelmed by the love, attendance and respect — and by the large turnout of Laker fans. (Hearing this, the audience roared.)
    “It is a privilege to be able to do what I can do in the community, be it with my time, knowledge or checkbook,” Veloz said in a more serious tone.
    She recited words spoken to her some years back by Ruth Clark, a message about what altruism gives back to those who practice it.  “The more you laugh the less you fret, the more you give unselfishly the more abundantly you live,” Veloz said of that attitude.
    Veloz received a stunning award for her contributions, a crystal hand holding the world — symbolic of the Betty Ferguson Foundation’s mission to empower women and youth across the globe.  
    A standing ovation was followed by the giving of certificates and commendations from local politicians and the SCV Chamber of Commerce.
    Musical entertainment featured the delightful sounds of pianist Bill Vibe; saxophonist David Vibe; Blush, a local trio of singer/dancers currently gaining show business popularity; and Lindsey Hough, a talented 15-year old vocalist from Newhall who exudes on-stage confidence and a passion for the standards.
    Ed Masterson, who attended the gala with his wife Valerie, had four words to describe Veloz. “She’s a good egg!” he said, grinning.
    Bob Kellar hailed Veloz as a phenomenal lady who has benefited the Santa Clarita Valley.
    “Without her work in so many different areas this great community would not be what it is today,” Kellar said.
    Cheryl Jones, marketing director of the SCV Child and Family Center, said she was thrilled that Veloz was recently named Center board chair for Child and Family Center, a non-profit organization that serves the mental health needs of local youth and families.
    Jones also hailed Veloz’ “can-do” spirit and generosity.
    “Roberta goes above and beyond with everything she does...when something needs to be done she just dives right in!” Jones said. “Philanthropy is her middle name.”
    
    For more information on the Betty Ferguson Foundation call 284-3551.