Community

This Summer Be Heat Aware, Especially Seniors 

Summer is here and recent high temperatures have seen the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health issue several hot weather advisories.  L.A. Public Health has collaborated with the Los Angeles Regional Collaborative for

How to Create a Dedicated Backyard Game Space 

What distinguishes a good backyard gathering from a great one? More often than not, a little friendly competition.  Exmark has partnered with landscape designer, Doug Scott with Redeem Your Ground, on a new

Ventura County is Alive with Summer Fun 

Ventura County is alive with fun and festive events this summer. Not only is it a quick drive for Santa Clarita Valley residents, Ventura County usually offers cooler weather and less crowded beaches

Photos: Flat Top Tom and His Jump Cats

Swing and blues performed by the Flat Top Tom and His Jump Cats band filled the air of the Valencia Marketplace on Friday evening for its’ “Summer Concerts” series. Dozens

Robert Lamoureux

Robert Lamoureux | A primer on how to eliminate persistent smoke smell 

Question: I bought a home that I knew had a smoke smell but figured I could paint and make it go away. I painted the bedroom first, hoping to be able to move in and continue on over time. Unfortunately, the bedroom still is holding the smoke smell and now I’m at a loss. I already removed the carpet and padding, and am not sure what to do. Any ideas?   — Chuck P.  Answer: Chuck, there is a primer that is needed and, in my experience, is the only way to clear the air. Kilz is the brand and you can use the Restoration or original — both should do the trick.   Fully cover all painted surfaces with this, then follow up with fresh paint. Once this is done, if there is still a smell, check the insulation in the attic. It could be old and holding the smell also. That is an expensive fix, but keep it in mind if you continue having the problem. Best of luck — reach back out if you need additional help.  Robert Lamoureux has more than 40 years of experience as a general contractor, with separate

Santa Clarita Valley heat winds down 

Following a week of triple-digit heat, the Santa Clarita Valley is set to cool down this weekend, but National Weather Service officials are still advising residents to remain cautious of heat exposure.   According to NWS meteorologist Carol

College briefs

College Briefs for July 16

Canyon Country student named to UCO honor roll   Canyon Country resident Madison Martinez has been named to the University of Central Oklahoma president’s honor roll for the fall 2025 semester,

Nonprofit filler

Bingo Bash to benefit Finally Family Homes 

News release  Finally Family Homes invites the Santa Clarita Valley community to “a fun and meaningful evening” at its Summertime Bingo Bash fundraiser, scheduled 7 p.m. Saturday at The Oasis Resource Center, 23120 Lyons Ave., Suite No. 19, Newhall.  Guests ages 16 and

Press release

Church to host weekend grief and loss recovery group 

News release  First Presbyterian Church of Newhall is hosting a grief and loss recovery group this weekend, free to community members.   This weekend group runs 6-9 p.m. Friday and 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday on the church’s campus in Newhall, near the DMV office.   Below are some common questions and answers about this program, called the Grief Recovery Method, according

Scouts BSA Troop 2 Santa Clarita pose for a photo, Monday, July 6, 2026. Kamryn Martell/The Signal

Boy Scout patrol crosses finish line together 

From completing their Eagle Scout projects to graduating high school, five friends have done it all together.   Thomas Heinrich, Joshua Metts, Connor Nelson, Michael Nobili and Brady Novean from Scouting America Troop 2 in Santa

Saugus football hosting food drive July 25 

Football isn’t just about receiving, but about giving back to the community.   The Saugus High School varsity football team is holding a food drive on Saturday, July 25, from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.