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News Features
A passion for the call of the wild
December 1, 2019
Paul Pondella, who is often referred to as “the Wolf Whisperer,” is more comfortable around wolves than he is people. In fact, it was his
Locals review the latest Disney+ debuts
December 1, 2019
It’s been a couple of weeks since the launch of Disney+, Disney’s much-anticipated streaming service. Not only has the vault of Disney’s beloved classics been
Veterans in Pain: a path to healing
November 26, 2019
Sgt. First Class Scott Adams was sitting in his Humvee, driving through the city of Bayji in northern Iraq on Jan. 26, 2007, when his
Art
Jacket inspires unique artwork, documentary
September 22, 2019
As Valencia artist Suzanne DeCuir sat with her husband in a stuffy, little hotel room in the Hunan province of China, they began removing layer upon layer of clothing from their newly adopted, 14-month-old daughter Anna.
Ballerina ready for next ‘stepping stone’
August 4, 2019
Though most children prefer playful, kid’s music, as a child, Gianna Juliet loved classical music. “That’s what I always wanted to dance to,” she said.
How to create an eye-catching gallery wall
July 14, 2019
Gallery walls, also called moment walls, are one of today’s hottest home decor trends. Gallery walls enable homeowners to create visually appealing groupings of photos,
Beauty & Fashion
Best wedding venues in SCV
November 19, 2019
The Santa Clarita Valley can lay claim to some of the best wedding venues around, including ones that work with budgets and offer a variety
Women redefining opinions on body image and self-esteem
October 27, 2019
At the end of January 2018, beauty history was made when Ashley Graham was picked up by Revlon to be the first “plus-sized” model in history to land a major beauty contract, joining Gal Gadot, Imaan Hammam and Raquel Zimmerman in the new “Live Boldly” campaign.
Three ways to improve your self-care routine
October 20, 2019
Self-care — the practice of taking care of oneself — has become a hot topic across generational groups, with sleep, stress management and fitness as key areas to build better habits. But where to start? Here are three tips for practicing better self-care.
Business
Tips for the Black Friday shopping list
November 26, 2019
The madness that follows every Thanksgiving dinner is returning, and with that rush comes sales that cause customers nationwide to bust down store doors in
Flying high after all these years
November 3, 2019
With only a handful of planes in the world still running a 28-cylinder R-4360 engine, Dennis Nobile, owner of Sun Air Parts in Valencia, a
A poppin’ new snack company in Santa Clarita
August 11, 2019
Most think of popcorn coming in a handful of classic flavors, such as butter, caramel or cheddar — but a new, local family business is bringing all those flavors and more.
Calendar of Events
Calendar of Events: October 27, 2019 to November 9, 2019
October 27, 2019
Come to the Santa Clarita Art Association’s 30th anniversary Art Classic & Gala, beginning at 5 p.m. Enjoy music, appetizers, no host bar, and silent auction while viewing the SCAA’s finest art judged by acclaimed artist, Julie Snyder.
Calendar of Events: October 20, 2019 to November 2, 2019
October 20, 2019
Join Crosspoint SCV for our annual Block Party, a free community event! This year’s theme is Galaxy! There will be fun games for all ages like a hay maze, train-ride, rock-wall, game truck and more! There will also be food trucks, so come hungry!
Calendar of Events: October 6, 2019 to October 19, 2019
October 6, 2019
Sponsored by Santa Clarita Valley’s VIP Network Group, “Hole Lot Of Fun” is an adults only yearly fundraiser benefiting local Santa Clarita Valley organizations Tidings For Teens and Veterans Advocacy.
City Council Mayor
Santa Clarita will not be defined by this
November 24, 2019
It only took 16 seconds to shatter our community’s sense of safety. The time it will take for parents not to worry about their kids every morning when they send them off to school will take much, much longer.
Holiday magic at ‘Light Up Main Street’
November 10, 2019
Tis the season to reflect on the past year and celebrate all the things for which we are grateful. The holiday season is also a time to spend with loved ones, continue festive traditions and even make new ones.
Celebrating the State of the City
October 27, 2019
Every fall season we shine the spotlight on Santa Clarita and celebrate the State of the City. This annual luncheon is an opportunity to reflect on the past year’s accomplishments while looking forward to what the future holds.
City Manager
Message from the City Manager
October 20, 2019
This is one of the most exciting times for our City Council and City staff, as we prepare to come together with the community and share all of the hard work that has been completed in the past year. We do this each fall at our annual State of the City luncheon.
Celebrating art in Santa Clarita
October 6, 2019
Whether you are at your neighborhood library, City Hall or Westfield Valencia Town Center – you will no doubt notice the interesting, thought-provoking and beautiful art pieces that are on display.
The value of volunteers
September 22, 2019
Each year, the City of Santa Clarita hosts a wide variety of popular events, ranging from our long-running Santa Clarita Marathon to the upcoming River Rally. Behind each of these events, and the City’s many programs and projects is the work of our passionate and committed volunteers.
Design
Decorate with a nose toward inviting holiday aromas
November 24, 2019
Holiday decor is as much about the sights and sounds as it is about the scents of the season. Few things evoke the holiday spirit as much as the aroma of fresh evergreen or spicy cinnamon and cloves. Incorporating inviting aromas into holiday decor can make homes feel even more special.
Identifying Your Kitchen Style
November 17, 2019
With so many different styles of kitchens and cabinets, sometimes it can be hard to decide on a favorite. While you may see kitchens in a variety of styles and find them all beautiful in their own way, finding inspirations for your dream kitchen often requires sorting through many different considerations.
Tips for maintaining an organized home
October 27, 2019
This time of year, family life can get a little messy. School schedules and sports activities mix with work commitments, and before long the house is as cluttered as the calendar.
Entertainment
Locals review the latest Disney+ debuts
December 1, 2019
It’s been a couple of weeks since the launch of Disney+, Disney’s much-anticipated streaming service. Not only has the vault of Disney’s beloved classics been
A Flock of Seagulls to play Santa Clarita
November 24, 2019
Canyon Santa Clarita is once again over residents a taste of nostalgia with one of the biggest British stars of 80s new wave pop.
SCV music fans to get a look at Naked Eyes
November 17, 2019
The band behind one of the quintessential 80s songs, their remake of “Always Something There to Remind Me,” Naked Eyes is bringing their brand of timeless British new wave pop to the Santa Clarita Valley on Nov. 29.
Food
A Full Menu for Fun-Filled Holiday Festivities
November 24, 2019
When holiday gatherings turn into all-day events, having meals ready from morning to night becomes an important part of seasonal hosting.
Best wedding venues in SCV
November 19, 2019
The Santa Clarita Valley can lay claim to some of the best wedding venues around, including ones that work with budgets and offer a variety
Curds, rinds and more mozzarella
November 17, 2019
Corry De Robertis, who’s billed as “That Cheesemaker Guy,” is a local hobbyist cheesemaker who, for the past year, has taught monthly cheesemaking classes out of his home with the assistance of his wife, Carol, which are offered on Facebook.
Health & Fitness
Veterans in Pain: a path to healing
November 26, 2019
Sgt. First Class Scott Adams was sitting in his Humvee, driving through the city of Bayji in northern Iraq on Jan. 26, 2007, when his
Understanding medical sharps, safe disposal options
November 24, 2019
If you’re among the millions of people in the United States who suffer from a chronic illness, you may use “sharps” to manage your medical condition at home or on the go.
The overweight pets of SCV
November 19, 2019
Just like humans, pets don’t get overweight overnight. A growing number of pets are overweight and it might be time to start asking why. If
Holiday
Tips for the Black Friday shopping list
November 26, 2019
The madness that follows every Thanksgiving dinner is returning, and with that rush comes sales that cause customers nationwide to bust down store doors in
How not to fowl up when buying a turkey
November 24, 2019
Whether purchasing a fresh or frozen turkey, consumers can be confident they are buying a quality product. The decision of which to purchase is based on personal preference in price and convenience.
Ready, Set, Give! Holiday Boutiques and Craft Fairs
November 24, 2019
‘Tis the season for gifting and gift buying. The Santa Clarita Valley (and beyond) offers some exceptional chances to snap up that “perfect” gift you didn’t even know you needed.
Home & Garden
Relax and make yourself at home
November 24, 2019
In the middle of the holiday season our human desire to organize and control everything can add a lot of stress to our lives. Then throw in all the traffic, the guests, the up and down weather and the wildfire dramas we have been experiencing.
Best wedding venues in SCV
November 19, 2019
The Santa Clarita Valley can lay claim to some of the best wedding venues around, including ones that work with budgets and offer a variety
‘To-dos’ for home and yard winterization
November 17, 2019
Scarves. Pumpkin spice lattes. Leaves crunching underfoot. Sweater season is moving in fast, which means it’s time to start transitioning to fall maintenance to make sure your home and yard are ready for winter. The following are some things you can do to prepare for the cold and wet weather ahead.
Home Improvement
Water heater leaks and necessary permits
November 24, 2019
I live in Canyon Country and read your article religiously. I wish I had listened to some of your advice, because we came home from vacation to find that our entire living room, family room, dining room and small bedroom downstairs had completely flooded.
Leaning walls, T-brackets and hot water issues
November 17, 2019
We have a homeowner whose block wall is leaning away from his home, and he’s asking that the association pay for the repair of it. We’re not sure of the cause of the lean.
Robert Lamoureux: garage solutions
November 3, 2019
Question No. 1 I have a four-car garage here in Valencia, that I’ve had for about 15 years. There are a significant number of oil
Kids & Family
A passion for the call of the wild
December 1, 2019
Paul Pondella, who is often referred to as “the Wolf Whisperer,” is more comfortable around wolves than he is people. In fact, it was his
Place-card puzzles add to Thanksgiving fun
November 24, 2019
Place cards are an indispensable addition to a Thanksgiving meal. They’re a little like croutons on a favorite soup, because they add style and pizzazz.
Five tips to help keep kids healthy during cold and flu season
November 24, 2019
It’s here again — that time of year when everyone seems to unwittingly pass colds and other illnesses around. As every parent knows, kids can bring germs home from school and share them with the entire family, spreading illness at warp speed.
Opinion
Emily Alvarenga | Tick Fire: Reflections from the fire lines
November 3, 2019
Working in the media does have its perks. The occasional media sneak preview at Six Flags Magic Mountain is always popular in the newsroom; there
Tim Whyte | Let’s Go, Cal State Long Beach Giraffes!
April 14, 2019
By Tim Whyte Signal Editor Look hard enough, and pretty much anywhere you can find something to offend you. Case in point: Long Beach
Christy Smith | VLF Bill: Government Working for You
April 14, 2019
By Christy Smith Assemblywoman At the core of good governance is efficiency and collaboration. What I’ve found during my years in public service is that
Pets
The overweight pets of SCV
November 19, 2019
Just like humans, pets don’t get overweight overnight. A growing number of pets are overweight and it might be time to start asking why. If
Saving furry friends with flare, creativity
November 3, 2019
With approximately 6.5 million pets entering animal shelters nationwide each year, volunteers at rescues across the country are constantly searching for homes. The sheer volume
Starter supplies for small pets
October 6, 2019
Cats and dogs may get much of the attention, but small pets can bring just as much to a household as their larger counterparts. Diminutive in size but not personality, hamsters, guinea pigs, ferrets, reptiles, mice and more may be just the right fit for those who desire a pet, but may not have the space or money for large animals.
Profiles
Veterans in Pain: a path to healing
November 26, 2019
Sgt. First Class Scott Adams was sitting in his Humvee, driving through the city of Bayji in northern Iraq on Jan. 26, 2007, when his
Big dreams in Sand Canyon
November 24, 2019
With the formation of successful startup companies, foundations and leadership centers throughout his career, Steve Kim is no stranger to business ventures.
Recognizing a passion for helping others
November 19, 2019
Whether it’s making sure college students have an attentive ear or raising awareness of community resources so people feel comfortable reaching out, Larry Schallert has
Real Estate
Understanding Mello Roos
April 1, 2019
When purchasing your new home, your future monthly payments will be made up of principle, interest, real property taxes and insurance, but you may also
Common title problems
March 18, 2019
My friend Laura Langen of Lawyers Title is a wealth of knowledge, and has always been there for me and my clients. Today’s column is
Are garage conversions legal?
March 11, 2019
Garage conversions come in many forms. I’ve seen a few things “out in the field”: I’ve seen garage conversions to studio apartments for family members,
Restaurant Review
Delectable desserts for unhealthy indulgences
September 29, 2019
While fast food may not be your first choice when in search of something sweet to sink your teeth into, it can certainly bring ease
Mama’s Table inspired to serve food and love, like mom does
August 11, 2019
David Cho wears many hats. Come into Mama’s Table Restaurant in Valencia and Cho, the owner, may be your greeter, server, clerk or busboy. Whatever role he plays, Cho always has a smile on his face.
That’s because despite 7-day work weeks, Cho finds the restaurant business pleasurable.
It’s wine o’clock in the SCV
August 4, 2019
Enjoying a glass of wine is much more than a companion for a good meal. The tradition that stretches back thousands of years can now
Schools
Sulphur Springs Union School District announces Tick Fire closures
October 27, 2019
Sulphur Springs Union School District officials announced schools will be closed starting Monday, Oct, 28, due to the Tick Fire that burned homes in Canyon
Keeping up a regal homecoming tradition
October 20, 2019
Valerie Miranda never thought when she was running for homecoming queen her senior year at San Fernando High in 1974 that she was starting a
Centurions’ first leader shares from life in education
October 5, 2019
Though Myron Sproul has now been retired longer than he worked, he still has many fond memories of his 30-year career as an educator here
Senior Living
Gettin’ Up There: Change my diaper to Motown
November 24, 2019
Only five-years old, and merrily cocooned within the living room of our post-WWII North Hollywood tract home, I repeatedly played two of my parents’ 45s on the record player — catchy tunes that made me smile and spin: Rosemary Clooney’s “Botch-A-Me” and The Ames Brothers’ “The Naughty Lady of Shady Lane.”
A second wind: Finding your tribe
November 17, 2019
Whatever our values, passions or lifestyle, we need a group to identify with and feel valued by. Not only do we depend on the group for support, but we also enjoy the feeling of extending our support and friendship to others.
Gettin’ Up There: Unforgettable reminders from the departed
October 27, 2019
Way back when I was a young nurse, I found an illuminating, albeit heartrending, place to visit on my Thursday afternoons off – the basement of the San Fernando Valley medical center where I worked.
Sports
Receivers catching on quickly at West Ranch
November 24, 2019
West Ranch High School football set a new precedent last season, reaching the second round of the CIF-Southern Section postseason for the first time in program history.
Trinity climbs way to contender
November 17, 2019
Since taking over the Trinity Classical Academy girls volleyball program in 2016, head coach Rebecca Peluffo has cultivated a winning culture at Trinity. Centered around a philosophy of players who play for each other, the strategy has paid dividends in recent years.
Tennis roots run deep for West Ranch’s Jordyn McBride
November 10, 2019
Since she was 18 months old, Jordyn McBride was surrounded by tennis. With a mother and a father who are both tennis coaches and an older brother who plays the sport, it was nearly unavoidable.
Things to Do
A passion for the call of the wild
December 1, 2019
Paul Pondella, who is often referred to as “the Wolf Whisperer,” is more comfortable around wolves than he is people. In fact, it was his
Fabulous fall entertainment around town and L.A.
November 17, 2019
Highlights of the fall entertainment scene include music and more. See a live performance by A Flock of Seagulls at The Canyon, or groove to the music of Summer … Donna Summer at the Pantages in Hollywood.
Fall Festivals & Fun
November 10, 2019
There are many unique fairs, festivals and expos to enjoy during the months of November and December. From a meet on the beach to a chance to nosh with the Los Angeles Rams, from arts and crafts to camel riding, there’s an event with your name on it!
Time Ranger
Happy Birthday to Tom Frew! He’s 29,006…!
November 24, 2019
Good darn thing these few hundred thousand ponies are trained to stay in place with but a mere clearing of the throat. Think my hand would get tired holding all those reins.
UFOs, The SCV’s 1st Coach & Fake Robbers
November 17, 2019
Good heavens, time is speeding by. Halloween’s over, Thanksgiving’s around the bend and Christmas is not too far beyond that. And we’re still basking in Indian summer weather.
Signal Tricksters & the Worst Train Wreck Ever
October 27, 2019
I’m guessing summer is ignoring our insistent coughing noises and is taking its jolly old good time leaving the house and getting on a flight to annoy some other relative.
Travel
Celebrate the holidays: festive holiday travel
November 10, 2019
This year, celebrate the season with a new family tradition: taking a vacation that makes the holidays feel like a vacation again. That means a holiday, whether it’s Christmas, Hanukkah or New Year’s Eve, where the cooking, light-hanging, or sometimes even the package-wrapping is done for you.
Brewing Up California’s Coffee Scene
October 27, 2019
The Pacific Northwest, home of Starbucks, may have invented modern “coffee culture,” but California has embraced the love of the caffeinated brew and offers up its own celebration of the hallowed “cup o’ joe.”
California’s most haunted from top to bottom
October 20, 2019
The forlorn spirit of a lovely young woman, a headless friar, a bevy of prehistoric phantoms: frightful sightings abound in these paranormal hotspots across California. Whether or not you believe in ghosts, a visit to these 10 spooky spots is sure to deliver a thrill.