Senator Sharon Runner went looking for a few good women as part of her commitment to raise the profile of women who do extraordinary things for their community. In Santa Clarita, she found OutWest founder Bobbi Jean Bell, naming her as Woman of the Year for this part of Runner’s 17^th Senate District.

“A local business woman, Bobbi finds time to volunteer countless hours at many non-profit organizations,” Runner said. “Her dedication is admirable and exemplifies service.”

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Bell needs no introduction in the Santa Clarita Valley where she is well-known for her selfless efforts and activism. She serves with several area organizations including the Old Town Newhall Association and Friends of Hart Park and has been instrumental in producing the First Thursday Art Walk in Old Town Newhall.

Bobbi Jean and her husband Jim are the founders and proprietors of OutWest Western Boutique and Cultural Center in Old Town Newhall. Drawing from her experience on staff at the Autry National Center, and with her personal passion for the history and myth of the American West, Bell has worked side-by-side with both Native American and non-native historians, curators, educators, artists, musicians, authors, jewelers and designers to define and create both a profitable merchandise mix and an engaging shopping experience for the area’s visitors.

She recently used her expertise in fashion and design to co-produce the Cowboy Couture fashion show during the recent Cowboy Festival, as well as running the Buckaroo Bookstore at Melody Ranch and hosting a concert by Junie Fisher as a festival partner event.

In nominating Bell, Kari Dauer-Hewitt wrote, “Bobbi embraces and encourages local artists, people within our community to support each other. She is kind beyond description. Bobbi is not Mother Theresa; rather, she is human and wears her flaws on her sleeves, so that you know you are dealing with a real, authentic, compassionate human being.”

Bell joined Runner for a honoree luncheon at Salt Creek Grille in Valencia last Friday, where she received a commemorative scroll.