Your guide to
the weekend.
The Sunday Signal is filled with stories fit for a weekend read. Everything from community news, local resident spotlights, business updates and much more comes in the Sunday Signal delivered to 70,000 homes for free!
Top Stories
Meet the SCV’s ‘Hotshots’ from Bear Divide
August 11, 2019
They’re the Bear Divide Hotshots, and a description of their work feels akin to discussing an elite paramilitary unit, due as much to their specialized training as it is to the dangerous and unique nature of their assignments.
The magic of making people feel better
August 11, 2019
Life is full of challenges, and while some might grow bitter after being dealt an especially bad hand, Dovid Rabotnick uses the magic of optimism and actual magic to keep his spirits up and give back to others.
CalArts alumni keep memory of Connie alive
August 11, 2019
For more than four decades, the case of murdered CalArts student Connie Marsh remained inactive as the tragedy slipped silently into history — until now.
Several steps to prepare for back-to-school
August 11, 2019
“Back to school preparation is important to starting the new school year on the right foot,” says retired Joyce Carson, who taught for 35 years at Sulphur Springs Community School in Canyon Country.
Past Issues
Missed an issue? Want to look back at a favorite story? Take a look at all of the Sunday Signal issues online and start exploring.
Jump to a Section
News Features
Scientists hope dreams lead to discovery
August 18, 2019
There might be a lot be a lot we can learn about ourselves from the way we dream — but not in the way we traditionally think of, according to Dr. Alon Avidan, director of UCLA’s Sleep Disorder Center and professor of neurology at UCLA.
Experts weigh in on right time to refinance
August 18, 2019
With mortgage rates tumbling down in recent weeks, millions of homeowners could save more than $150 a month from refinancing.
Where the SCV gathers to get outside
August 17, 2019
There is something fundamentally healthy about being outdoors. For children, it can give them the freedom to run, jump and play. And while physical activities
Art
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,
The art of buying art for your home
July 14, 2019
Designing a home’s interior can be fun. Whether furnishing a first apartment or a newly purchased family home, many people feel that the art they
Beauty & Fashion
Cellulite treatments: What works and what doesn’t?
June 30, 2019
As long as women have been conscious of the presence of cellulite on their bodies, the search has been on to find effective treatments. People
Where skin care can make a difference
May 12, 2019
It’s widely known that skin is the largest organ in the human body. There’s a $382 billion global business circulating around skin care and beauty.
Business
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.
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
Video Depot: The last action heroes in Newhall
July 27, 2019
Even with movie rental stores on almost every corner of the Santa Clarita Valley many moons ago, John and Gina Lee remember how a line
Calendar of Events
Calendar of Events: August 18, 2019 to August 31, 2019
August 18, 2019
Mondays, 9 p.m. to midnight Enjoy Latin dancing nights at Black and Blue Restaurant with $5 patron drinks, Coronas or Modelo beer. 24300 Town Center Drive, STE 110, Valencia.
Calendar of Events: August 11, 2019 to August 24, 2019
August 11, 2019
Toddler Storytime at the Children’s Stage, with various children’s books read to toddlers and parents. Barnes & Noble, 23630 Valencia Blvd., Santa Clarita.
Calendar of Events: July 28, 2019 to August 10, 2019
July 27, 2019
ONGOING FF Mondays, 10 a.m. Toddler Storytime at the Children’s Stage, with various children’s books read to toddlers and parents. Barnes & Noble, 23630 Valencia
City Council Mayor
Head back to school with the ‘Heads Up!’ public safety campaign
August 18, 2019
Back to school season is a time for growth, learning and new opportunities. From meeting new teachers and making new friends to learning new subjects and possibly attending a new school — children often delight in the change that back-to-school time brings.
Keep your city beautiful: Volunteer at the River Rally River clean-up event
August 11, 2019
Whether you are biking, walking or driving through Santa Clarita, you are likely to run into lush green fields for sports games, wildflowers blooming on hillsides or spot our City’s iconic oak trees. This abundance of beauty in our valley didn’t happen by accident.
Be a ‘Heads-Up’ citizen – never drink and drive
July 27, 2019
By Mayor Marsha McLean The summer months – especially in Santa Clarita – bring beautiful weather and a wide range of opportunities for residents. From
City Manager
Santa Clarita parks – a fun and safe way to play
August 18, 2019
Recreational opportunities abound in the City of Santa Clarita. From afternoons spent cooling off at the Aquatic Center to playing a friendly game of softball at Central Park, you will find residents enjoying time with family and friends at our parks every day of the week.
A Year in Review with the Santa Clarita Public Library
July 27, 2019
The Santa Clarita Public Library has what you need for your next adventure – whether that’s exploring a universe of stories, brushing up on your technology skills or researching Santa Clarita’s local history.
What goes into maintaining Santa Clarita streets?
July 7, 2019
In my meetings with residents and community leaders over the years, one of the most important topics discussed is traffic and road conditions in Santa
Design
Storage/display opportunities— In furniture, along walls and in hidden places
August 18, 2019
Finding more space to store and display all the “stuff” used for day-to-day living, as well as life’s pleasures, can be an adventure that ends with everything in its perfect place.
Expand living spaces with clever ideas
July 27, 2019
Homeowners looking to add more space to their homes do not necessarily need to make major renovations. They simply have to see the possibilities in
The man’s room is his retreat
July 7, 2019
By Ken Dean Signal Contributing Writer We can call a man’s room, just that, the man’s room, or retreat, or his space, the study or
Entertainment
English Beat coming to Canyon Santa Clarita
August 18, 2019
The English Beat is bringing its internationally renowned sound to the Santa Clarita Valley next week with a stop Saturday, Aug. 24 at the Canyon Santa Clarita.
Where the SCV gathers to get outside
August 17, 2019
There is something fundamentally healthy about being outdoors. For children, it can give them the freedom to run, jump and play. And while physical activities
‘American Pie’ singer coming to SCV
August 11, 2019
For an artist who’s been on the recording charts for nearly 50 years, Don McLean travels pretty well.
Food
Substitute lamb for beef to make especially juicy burgers
August 18, 2019
Backyard barbecues typically are informal gatherings. That lack of formality coupled with warm weather makes for a relaxing vibe. When relaxing with family and friends
Toss some shrimp on the barbie at your next party
August 18, 2019
The popularity of cooking-based television shows has led many people to look at food through a new lens. Experiencing food in new ways may involve trying certain types of cuisine for the first time or even preparing beloved foods in new ways.
Michele makes….ice cream
August 11, 2019
It’s summer in the Santa Clarita Valley. It’s hot. What can you do with the family that’s fun and gives you a sweet, cool treat as a reward? One of the simple joys of summer is ice cream. A great family activity is making homemade ice cream with your kids.
Health & Fitness
Cholesterol plummets after giving up bread
August 18, 2019
The other thing that is often forgotten is what you changed your diet to. If you ate overall fewer calories, you may have lost a few pounds, and sometimes that can have a big beneficial effect on cholesterol.
Where the SCV gathers to get outside
August 17, 2019
There is something fundamentally healthy about being outdoors. For children, it can give them the freedom to run, jump and play. And while physical activities
Saturated fat versus unsaturated fat
August 11, 2019
Fat can be confusing as it pertains to diet. If asked to describe fat in a single word, many people might be inclined to say, “Bad.” However, fat is more complicated than that and is actually an essential component of a healthy diet.
Holiday
4th of July Snow Cone Cupcakes
June 30, 2019
These snow cones won’t melt. Nope. They’re not icy… but they are frosted. They’re snow cone cupcakes and they were a lot of fun to
Celebrating the Fourth in Santa Clarita
June 30, 2019
With 243 years of tradition behind it, Fourth of July celebrations are one of America’s most time-honored traditions. It’s a day to celebrate our nation’s
Spent some quality time with dad catchin’ fish
June 9, 2019
Many dads like to fish. If you have a “fishing father” consider taking him out on a special daddy-son or daddy-daughter fishing excursion. Make sure
Home & Garden
How to level an uneven yard
August 11, 2019
Many things can cause a yard to be uneven. Drainage problems, leaky pipes beneath the grass and pests can wreak havoc on a yard, resulting in uneven turf that can be both unsightly and unsafe.
Expert lawn-care tips for a weed-free yard
July 27, 2019
Whether it’s splotched, patchy or completely covered, a lawn choked with weeds can be a homeowner’s worst nightmare. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to transform an awful lawn into your dream lawn – thick, green and weed-free.
City to hold smart gardening workshops
July 22, 2019
In partnership with the Los Angeles County Department of Public Works, the city of Santa Clarita is hosting a series of smart gardening workshops. Classes
Home Improvement
Sprinkler trouble may be timer issue
August 18, 2019
I have asked you a question before and appreciate your help. We are in our 80s, and last year, I had to learn how to set the sprinklers for automatic watering.
Fill trenches with slurry to avoid sink
August 11, 2019
My name is Jerry F. I live in Santa Clarita and I’m not sure if you’ve ever answered questions on commercial properties. I’m hoping you can help me on this, it’s not a big deal, but I have a concern.
Proper prep can save lots of money
July 27, 2019
Question No. 1 Hi Robert, I have a question: We have a P-trap that is leaking under a newly tiled shower. Every day, we fill
Kids & Family
Six play activities that can help manage ‘bad behavior’
August 18, 2019
When children misbehave, there’s often a reason for it, according to experts, who point out that understanding the behaviors can help you manage them more effectively, especially during play time.
4 easy DIY projects to go back-to-school in style
August 18, 2019
Parents spend more than $500 per student for those in grades K-12 during the back-to-school season, according to a new survey from Deloitte. But back-to-school shopping doesn’t mean your wallet needs to take a heavy hit!
Donna’s Day: Squeeze in last outings before Labor Day
August 18, 2019
So little time left, and so much yet to do. Do you feel that way this month, realizing that warm and long summer days soon will come to an end?
Opinion
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
David W. Hegg | On the Importance of Discipline in Society
April 14, 2019
By David Hegg Someone has said “you will always have time to do the things you really need to do.” I’m not sure that is
Pets
Best practices for traveling with pets
July 20, 2019
It’s summer time, which also means it’s time for summer vacations. Preparing for a trip can be stressful on its own, but for those with pets, it can seem like a daunting task.
Why shelter cats make purrfect pals
June 9, 2019
Puma steals hearts with his stealth good looks and independent nature. Dublin, a former mom, loves everyone she meets — people, other cats and even
Overcoming adversity to become Top Dog
May 31, 2019
The Tucker family’s dog grooming business endeavors brought them closer together at a time when they needed just that. MacKenzie Tucker was perfectly healthy until
Profiles
Profile: Jason Crawford
August 18, 2019
Jason Crawford, City of Santa Clarita planning, marketing and economic development manager, is living proof that best-laid plans can often go strangely, yet perfectly, awry.
Cameron Smyth has a heart for public service
August 11, 2019
City Councilman Cameron Smyth currently serves as mayor pro tem for the City of Santa Clarita. Per tradition, in December, Smyth should be elected by
Laughs, lessons and life at 100
August 11, 2019
When Santa Clarita resident Bernie Glass was told he would be a good standup comedian, he replied: “The toughest part of that would be to
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
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
Savory Sonoran and steakhouse fare at El Trocadero
July 21, 2019
In the mood for Mexican cuisine? Or maybe some meat and seafood? Can’t decide? Well, you’re in luck, because El Trocadero Mesquite Grill & Cantina has it all.
Schools
Math Support can balance your summer equation
April 14, 2019
As the school year is winding down, many parents are looking for opportunities to make the most of the summer for their child. For the
Charter College sees demand for health care workers
April 14, 2019
Charter College career service and educator teams watch trends to stay on top of job growth and business demand. Then, they give thier students the