Gifts from the Heart

Truly a Marvelous Mom! Contest Winner DeAun Ginsburg

Tue, 23 Apr 2013 00:06:38 +0100

Motherâs Day is a day to celebrate and honor motherhood, and the influence these special women have in our lives.Â It is typically celebrated on the second Sunday of May, and this year, it will be celebrated on May 12.Â
In honor of Motherâs Day, we asked our readers to submit a letter and photo telling us about their mother and why she is extraordinary.Â We received many wonderful letters and photos.Â Thank you all for your submissions.

Mon Jardin is Now Open!

Tue, 23 Apr 2013 00:05:41 +0100

Ma Maison Santa Clarita is happy to announce the latest addition to our ever-growing dream, Mon Jardin, or My Garden, is now open in our Newhall location.Â Ten years ago when we opened our boutique we had always had the vision to integrate the outdoors but it was not possible in our old location.Â Now with our move to Newhall the addition of a tranquil garden could be accommodated and after finalizing the construction we are happy to introduce our very own backyard garden.

Motherâs Day Gift Ideas ... May 2013

Tue, 23 Apr 2013 00:04:16 +0100

Motherâs Day is Sunday, May 12.Â This is the time of the year to show mom how much you appreciate her and shower her with the gifts she loves.Â Mix it up this year!Â

Old Town Block Party Has Doubled

Tue, 23 Apr 2013 00:02:10 +0100

At the end of 2012, some long time Newhall merchants decided to create an event to draw attention to the Old Town Newhall area which has recently undergone many visible improvements.Â Pulchella Winery co-owners started an Old Town Newhall Block Party that included the merchants on Main Street between Market and 6th Street.Â Initially, this cross marketing campaign included a day of shopping, drinking wine and free raffle gifts for patrons which was a fabulous way for people to see first hand t ...

Framing for Motherâs Day

Tue, 23 Apr 2013 00:01:16 +0100

The days and years go by and suddenly our children are grown.Â We wonder how the time passed so quickly and find ourselves wishing we could slow it down just a little.Â Â Wouldnât it be nice to be able to capture a few of those moments in time forever?Â To us at FASTFRAME, this is what photographs do.Â

A Dream Come True Clariceâs Cake & Candy Supplies Expands

Tue, 23 Apr 2013 00:00:31 +0100

Having owned and operated Clariceâs Cake & Candy Supplies for over 25 years, Nanci Olmos continues to share her skills with others, teaching cake decorating, cookie decorating and candy making to children and adults.Â With all the baking shows on television and the Internet, the popularity of baking continues to increase, and her business continues to grow. Â So, too, do her classes.Â In fact, the small classroom is no longer big enough to accommodate everyone.Â Â âMy dream was to have a pr ...

Watch Care

Wed, 27 Mar 2013 20:27:28 +0100

A watch is an object of exceptional complication and beauty that requires regular care to work properly.Â Standard maintenance includes safeguarding the movement, protecting the watch from water damage and cleaning the case and band.Â The following tips will help you care for and preserve your timepieces for generations to come:For watches with a manual (or hand-wound) mechanical movement, be sure to wind the watch once a day, at the same time of day.Â Be careful not to over-wind the watch. S ...

Giving the Gift of Jewelry Ro, Ma Jewelers

Wed, 27 Mar 2013 20:26:40 +0100

Whether itâs capturing a certain emotion in time, demonstrating to a loved one how much you care about them, or for no apparent reason at all, giving the gift of jewelry is a great way to make sure someone knows that youâre thinking about them.
As one of the best specialty jewelry brands in Santa Clarita, Ro, Ma knows that offering fine jewelry at a great price is only part of the story.Â

Shelley Weinstein of Shelleyâs Fashions Opens Up On Main Street

Wed, 27 Mar 2013 20:26:08 +0100

You will be amazed at whatâs happening on Main Street in downtown Newhall.Â Thereâs an exciting buzz with new stores opening and the âold townâ feel of yesteryear.The recent opening of Closet on Main and their introduction of Shelleyâs Fashions is no exception.Â You may have met Shelley at one of the many fundraising events she participates in throughout the year, where she has raised over 1.5 million dollars for hundreds of charities, including many in the Santa Clarita Valley, such ...

Who Doesnât Love Trader Joeâs?

Wed, 27 Mar 2013 20:25:45 +0100

Many of us love the convenience and quality of Trader Joeâs and it has become our âgo-toâ store whenever you need something special, quick and easy and/or healthy for a fair price.Â Ma Maison hosts many of our parties using the offerings from Trader Joeâs, so when we came across the I Love Trader Joeâs Cookbook, we ate it up!Â We have carried this cookbook for many years now and not only are the more than 150 delicious recipes good for special events and entertaining, theyâre great ...

Mirror Mirror on the Wallâ¦

Wed, 27 Mar 2013 20:24:36 +0100

Mirrors can make the greatest change of all.Â There is nothing that can date a home more than the look of the bathroom or the kitchen.Â Yet if youâre anything like us, the thought of remodeling any part of the house is a frightening and disruptive process.Â Â When we moved into our home here in Santa Clarita over 19 years ago, all of the new homes being built put in those large, flat mirrors over the bathroom vanity.Â

Say It With Flowers

Wed, 27 Mar 2013 20:23:37 +0100

Flowers from the heart, say it the best.Â At Family Florist, we make giving easy.Â Our professional staff is dedicated to making your floral gift special and perfect.Â We have a great team of designers with a combined 49 years of experience.Â We are passionate about the quality and guaranteed that each bouquet we make will have the highest quality of freshness.Â The designs of arrangements range from traditional, contemporary, tropical, and high style.Â Family Florist is a full service flo ...

Oh Baby!

Mon, 25 Feb 2013 22:10:28 +0100

Babies are born everyday but these are a few born from jan to feb! If you or someone you know has had a baby please send it to Stephanie Elgin at selgin@santaclaritamagazine.com with the date your baby was born and who the parents are. and how big your baby and send a photo!

The Four Câs of Diamonds

Mon, 25 Feb 2013 22:09:21 +0100

When you are planning on purchasing a diamond it is important that you know as much as possible about how diamonds are classified.Â There are four topics you need to become familiar with â Cut, Color, Clarity, and Carat Weight.

Adapt, Learn and Grow

Mon, 25 Feb 2013 22:08:22 +0100

A few years ago my youngest son gave me a toy called The Evolving Darwin Playset.Â Consisting of five plastic figures representing the emergence of terra-based life from the sea and progressing to a bearded figure wearing a waist coat, this was my sonâs tip-of-the-hat to his fatherâs âgeekness.â

Whatâs Old Is New Again

Mon, 25 Feb 2013 22:07:25 +0100

Ma Maison is so excited to have moved from Valencia to downtown Newhall on Main Street.Â Our little neighborhood down here has such a friendly and welcoming atmosphere.Â You would not believe how darling the area has become and it is only improving daily.Â Some of you may remember the good old days in Newhall when this area was a bustling center of town for the entire Santa Clarita Valley.Â

A New Book to Help with Debt Challenges Consumer Guide: What You Need to Know Before Filing ...

Mon, 25 Feb 2013 22:06:39 +0100

Bankruptcy can be overwhelming, and getting out of debt can be a nightmare.Â A once struggling law student, Ray Bulaon, ESQ, Santa Clarita Valley debt relief attorney, launched a new book, Consumer Guide: What You Need to Know Before Filing Bankruptcy.Â

Why FASTFRAME?

Mon, 25 Feb 2013 22:05:28 +0100

When searching for a frame shop there are a lot of things to consider.Â At FASTFRAME we pride ourselves on some of those services that make us stand above the rest.Â We are Nationally known but locally owned.Â Having been members of the community for over 19 years, our customers are our friends and neighbors.Â

Miles For Smiles The Foundation for Childrenâs Dental Health

Wed, 30 Jan 2013 01:08:17 +0100

Attention all cycling enthusiasts!Â Itâs time to put your New Yearâs resolution to its true test and see how your skills line up against others with the same cycling passion.Â If you are up for the challenge, then mark your calendar for Saturday, February 23 for âMiles for Smiles,â an indoor cycling event with a challenging twist - cycling in the dark.

Main Street, Newhall â Why So Cool?

Wed, 30 Jan 2013 01:07:28 +0100

As many of you already know, Ma Maison made a huge change this year and moved our business from the center of Valencia to downtown Newhall on Main Street.Â Many of you wonder why we would make such a drastic change?Â The answer is really quite simple; we see the vision that Main Street Newhall will eventually be a bustling quant center of town for the entire Santa Clarita Valley.Â With it being only 2.6 miles from our previous location and hopefully with our loyal 10-year customer base, we fe ...

SCORE Big in Sports

Wed, 30 Jan 2013 01:07:07 +0100

Pre-performance routines can take your game to the next level.Â As the saying goes, âA little planning goes a long way.âÂ Nothing could be truer when it comes to the world of sports.Â Pre-performance routines help athletes get into the right state of mind, focus, build confidence, boost energy, prevent burnout and increase mental toughness.Â Learning to take your game beyond the field takes time, energy and commitment and helps you become a better athlete.Â Few focus on the mental aspec ...

Oh Babies!

Wed, 30 Jan 2013 01:01:01 +0100

Two Beautiful babies were annouced in the feburary issue here they are.

Principal For A Day

Wed, 30 Jan 2013 01:00:23 +0100

Business leaders, community members and parents are invited to spend the morning shadowing a local public school principal or district administrator by registering for the upcoming Principal for a Day event, sponsored annually by the SCV Education Foundation.Â This yearâs event is scheduled for Friday, February 8 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. The day kicks-off with each participant spending a couple of hours with their chosen principal or district leader, followed by a catered luncheon with all princ ...

A Valentineâs Day Gift Sweeter than Chocolate

Wed, 30 Jan 2013 00:58:59 +0100

How often do you remember the gift you have given, or received, on Valentineâs Day?Â A box of assorted chocolates, a variety of flowers, or a group of heart shaped Mylar balloons may be your best memory of past Valentineâs Day gift giving.Â Or, maybe you canât remember what it was at all.Â Unfortunately, flowers wilt and chocolates go stale and balloons lose their air.

On Being A Child

Wed, 30 Jan 2013 00:58:22 +0100

Itâs always nice to look back on oneâs life to find the important moments when something, or someone, had an impact.Â In fact, such a moment can sometimes be so inspirational that it can change your life forever.Looking back on my life as a child, I remember how I admired my older brothers and wanted to play football like one, or be an artist like the other.Â They both excelled at what they worked at and I did everything I could to be like them.Â I would watch their every move and tried ...

Congratulations To Our SCV Newest Additions

Thu, 27 Dec 2012 21:45:51 +0100

Babies Everywhere!

Change Is Good!

Thu, 27 Dec 2012 21:45:12 +0100

Dear Friends and Customers,

As another year comes to a close, it is time to look forward to 2013 and greet the New Year.Â We at Ma Maison, are welcoming big change as this year we will be moving our Valencia store location to the newly rejuvenated downtown Newhall area.Â Never fear, we will still be in Santa Clarita for all of our customers and friends.

Making a Difference One Step at a Time

Thu, 27 Dec 2012 21:28:24 +0100

The supporters and participants at ZOEâs first ever âRescue Walkâ made a huge difference as they walked to raise funds and awareness to help children in danger and rescue them from trafficking.Â ZOE, a nonprofit headquartered in the Santa Clarita Valley, cares for orphans and rescues children from human trafficking.Â ZOE operates a Childrenâs Home in Thailand and has expanded operations to the LA area.

On Being Curious

Thu, 27 Dec 2012 21:27:03 +0100

I have always believed that a curious child is a child that will grow, mature, and always have a future that is full of adventure and excitement.Â Regrettably, sometimes these children are looked upon as disruptive in a class situation.Â I feel just the opposite about this curious trait.Â These inquisitive students represent 80 percent of the class that are afraid - or insecure - about asking questions and fear that their questions will be called dumb.

A New Yearâ¦ A New Look!

Thu, 27 Dec 2012 21:26:38 +0100

The beginning of a new year is the perfect time to update the look of your home.Â Even small changes can make a big difference.Â Chances are you have few pieces of art on your wall that either youâve outgrown or it no longer fits in with your current dÃ©cor.Â The frame may simply be outdated.

Your Holiday Gift Guide - Dec 2012

Wed, 28 Nov 2012 01:04:34 +0100

Itâs that time of year again, Santa Clarita! Are you looking for a unique gift for that special someone who deserves the perfect present?Â Is coming up with gift ideas for friends and family a struggle for you every year?Â âTis the season to be jolly after all, so why not take some of the pressure of holiday shopping off of yourself for once.Â Here at The Magazine of Santa Clarita, we want to make things a little easier for you this year with our Holiday Gift Guide!Â Â Browse through this ...

Volunteers â The Life of a Community

Wed, 28 Nov 2012 01:03:10 +0100

In these late autumn days with the holiday season looming ahead, it seems that we have no time to place any more items on our busy schedules.Â Most of our âaverageâ days involve jobs, caring for our family and homes, maybe some exercise on our beautiful trail system or at one of the many local gyms, and time for a meal or two with a few hours of sleep before starting it again.Â It is hard to believe that we fit it all into a 24-hour day, but we manage.Â Many of us not only manage it well, ...

Let the âBest Boutiqueâ Winner Help With Your Holidays

Wed, 28 Nov 2012 01:02:41 +0100

Finding the perfect gift for everyone during the holiday season can be an overwhelming challenge.Â The key is to remember the spirit of the season and let Ma Maison, the gift professionals, help!Â We are here to make it easier for those of us who go on the search for that one special thing.Â You know the one; it jumps off the shelf at you and reflects how we feel about others by bringing a smile to ours and their faces.Â Along with the broad selection of unusual gift products we feature at t ...

The Holidays Are Here!

Wed, 28 Nov 2012 01:01:55 +0100

Each year the holidays seem to sneak up on us.Â We think we have plenty of time to plan and buy those gifts.Â But then the days fly by and suddenly the traffic increases and the lines at the stores become long.Â We find ourselves thrust into the crowds searching for the perfect gift for our family and friends.Â This year you might consider doing something a bit different.

You Can Create Your Own Memories

Tue, 23 Oct 2012 23:33:51 +0100

I have always believed that memories are precious.Â I also believe that any opportunity to create special moments in your life is important.Â Children are the greatest producer of cherished memories, beginning at their first moments of life, continuing when they develop their own identities, then growing into their own unique personalities.

Thirty-Three Years and Going Strong

Tue, 23 Oct 2012 23:33:17 +0100

Thirty-three years ago the Country Antique Fair Mall opened its doors to the residents of the Santa Clarita Valley and beyond.Â It was one of the first Antique and Collectible stores to utilize the Mall concept and allow dealers to rent space from which to sell their unique items.Â

Three Artists, Three Styles, One Great Boutique

Tue, 23 Oct 2012 23:32:51 +0100

Beginning Saturday, December 1, three local women artists, award winners and members of the Santa Clarita Artistsâ Association present their very varied art styles in one all-inclusive show and holiday gift boutique during the month of December at Valencia Art and Framing, Granary Square, located at 25850 McBean Parkway in Valencia.

Humor Helps A Comedy Show Hosted by Bridge to Home-Santa Clarita Shelter

Tue, 23 Oct 2012 23:32:13 +0100

Bridge to Home-Santa Clarita Shelter hosts Humor Helps â A Comedy Show on November 11 from 6:30 p.m. to 10 p.m. at Blessed Kateri Church located at 22508 Copper Hill Drive in Santa Clarita.Â This fun and laughter filled evening will include nationally acclaimed comedians such as Alonzo Bodden and others, live music, a silent auction and other fund-raising activities; delicious appetizers will be served. Â

Give the Gift of Reading to Children in Need

Tue, 23 Oct 2012 23:31:47 +0100

Barnes & Noble stores across the country invite customers to give the gift of reading to children in need during its annual Holiday Book Drive, taking place from November 1 to January 1, 2013.Â The Barnes & Noble Holiday Book Drive provides an opportunity for customers to donate books through locally designated non-profit organizations.

Bereaved Families Join in 16th Worldwide Candle Lighting

Tue, 23 Oct 2012 23:31:08 +0100

The death of a child is devastating and itâs important to the family that the child always be remembered. Thatâs why members of the Santa Clarita Chapter of The Compassionate Friends (TCF) will participate in an annual worldwide event designed to honor the memories of all children, regardless of age, who have died. The chapter is joining Sunday, December 9, with hundreds of organized memorial services around the world for The Compassionate Friends 16th annual Worldwide Candle Lighting, an ev ...

The Holidays Are Almost Here!

Tue, 23 Oct 2012 23:30:08 +0100

Soon our homes will be filled with the aroma of turkey for Thanksgiving along with guests and family.Â If one of the things on your holiday list this year is sprucing up your home, we can help.Â Custom framing can transform your home into an elegant holiday showcase.Â Itâs one of the easiest and quickest ways to brighten up your tired decor.Â

Make Room for Ma Maison in Ventura

Tue, 23 Oct 2012 23:29:39 +0100

Ma Maison is so excited to announce our expansion onto Main Street in downtown Ventura.Â We are opening a second location in Ventura that will be open by November 15!Â We are thrilled to open the doors for this second boutique because the products we carry are currently unavailable to residents of the area and it will also afford us the opportunity to introduce more new items to Santa Clarita as well.

Santa Clarita Wild West Rose Show and Art Display

Wed, 26 Sep 2012 19:38:21 +0100

The Santa Clarita Valley Rose Society will host its 19th Annual Rose Show themed âWild West Rosesâ on Saturday, November 3, and Sunday, November 4, at William S. Hart Park, 24151 Newhall Avenue in Newhall.Â The show will be located in Hart Hall, and is Co-Sponsored by the County of Los Angeles Department of Parks & Recreation.Â Concurrent with the rose show, there will be an art show on the rear patio of Hart Hall that will feature rose art by many local artists.Â The public is invited to ...

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month

Wed, 26 Sep 2012 19:38:00 +0100

Everyone has a loved one that has suffered at the hands of cancer and this is the month to raise awareness and funds to try and find a cure.Â In honor of my grandmother who has been in remission for five years and all the other survivors:

Letâs Talk About Art â Did You Know? - October 2012

Wed, 26 Sep 2012 19:36:41 +0100

The question is âWhat is art?âÂ Anything that shows or tells about ideas, feelings, or experiences is art.Â Paintings, photographs, poems, stories, plays, songs, and dances are art.Â Art is like magic.Â Art helps you appreciate what is around you.Â Where is art?Â Art is everywhere.Â It is in the trees and clouds and shadows on the sidewalk.Â It is in the clothes you wear, the dishes you eat from, the furniture in your home.Â

A Look at the Judges for SCAA The Art Classic

Wed, 26 Sep 2012 19:34:48 +0100

The Santa Clarita Artistsâ Association (SCAA) will host the 23rd Annual Art Classic on Saturday, October 20, from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. at Hart Hall at Hart Park in Newhall. Â A free public viewing will be on Sunday, October 21 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

âThe annual Art Classic Gala is our major fundraiser for the year,â said SCAA co-chair and president, Laurie Morgan.Â

Inspiration How do you get it? How do you keep it? Where does it come from?

Wed, 26 Sep 2012 19:34:06 +0100

So how do you get inspired?Â Is there a place you go?Â People you meet?Â Technique you follow?Â The answer is whatever works for you, thatâs probably a cop out, right?

Itâs actually inside you already, you just have to find a way to release it.

Did You Knowâ¦?

Wed, 26 Sep 2012 19:33:33 +0100

There is a great deal of difference between framing materials.Â Custom framing isnât just about enhancing the beauty of the art but should be about preserving it as well.Â When searching for a framer and comparing prices, you should be aware that the materials used in the framing process can vary significantly in quality.Â At FASTFRAME, we are concerned with preservation and conservation of your art so all of our materials are museum quality and acid free.Â

AAUW Hosts their Annual Membership Brunch September 15

Sat, 01 Sep 2012 08:00:00 +0100

The Santa Clarita Valley Branch of AAUW will hold its Annual Membership Brunch to celebrate 44 years of service in the SCV and to kick-off the yearâs activities, on Saturday, September 15, at 9:30 a.m. at the home of Louise Schultz.

Let's Talk About Art â Did You Know?

Mon, 27 Aug 2012 21:08:46 +0100

Where did the roots of Art in America begin?Â Art education is rooted in part in the Industrial Revolution of the 19th Century when drawing was taught in an effort to improve the production of products.

However, the real beginnings of the visual arts in America began when the first English settlers landed on the East Coast and established their homes and churches.

Fire Up Your Flirty Side with the Perfect Fit Naughty But Nice Lingerie

Mon, 27 Aug 2012 21:07:32 +0100

Take a step into Naughty But Nice and you wonât be disappointed. Naughty But Nice Lingerie offers products from a variety of companies, with styles and price ranges to meet everyoneâs needs from 18 to 80.

Owner, Sharon Dallas, has been making women look and feel great since 1989, and itâs no surprise why clients absolutely love her.Â Sheâs the expert bra fitter, the âvirtual professorâ as some may say, and she has a talent for fitting women with the perfect bra.

Happy Ninth Birthday to Ma Maison

Mon, 27 Aug 2012 21:06:57 +0100

Dear Santa Clarita,
Ma Maison is celebrating its ninth year in business and we wanted to take a moment to say Thank you from the bottom of our hearts for your support of our little boutique.Â Your continued patronage over the years has not only kept us SCVâs most unique home dÃ©cor and gift store but has also inspired us to stay innovative in these ever changing economic times.Â

Getting Your Hands Dirty

Mon, 27 Aug 2012 21:06:33 +0100

I recently made the remark âgetting your hands dirtyâ to a close friend, and the response was âwhat does that mean?â

I took it for granted that it was a term widely used and needed no explanation.Â Well, I guess it does, and here it is.
It means that during your creative work as an artist, you should not be afraid to dig in and get your hands full of paint, ink, charcoal or whatever youâre using.Â

Strength in Numbers

Mon, 27 Aug 2012 21:06:07 +0100

When you have a collection of photos, artwork and other special items to display, how can you get the most impact from them?Â Framing them is a great way to emphasize these pieces, while protecting them at the same time.Â The design options with custom framing are virtually endless.Â Depending on your personal tastes, you can have the items framed in a coordinated fashion for a matching, streamlined collection, or if your style is more eclectic, you can create a grouping with differing frame ...

Breaking News! A New Howard Terpning Release is Now Available!

Mon, 30 Jul 2012 20:13:28 +0100

We are proud to offer a new release by the legendary Howard Terpning.Â This release, White Man Fire Sticks is now available, but in a very limited quantity. White Man Fire Sticks continues Howardâs exploration of the world of the Plains People.Â

Has Digital Killed the CD Star?

Mon, 30 Jul 2012 20:12:11 +0100

As someone who has survived records and cassettes I can testify that I truly believed that the CD would be the last advancement.Â But now that we have the simplicity of downloading music online we can ask ourselves if we should get rid of our CDâs?

Discover your Creativity!

Mon, 30 Jul 2012 20:11:45 +0100

What is creativity?Â People often associate this question with artistic abilities.Â Maybe they remember art classes where they didnât feel as talented as their peers.Â You might hear answers like: âI can just draw stick figuresâ... The truth is that creativity is found in our daily living.Â From the quality of our thoughts to the way we improvise solutions to emergencies.Â Itâs innate and has helped us to grow, but frequently taken for granted.Â Still, itâs with us to guide our p ...

Want to Improve Your Memories?

Mon, 30 Jul 2012 20:11:04 +0100

Folksinger Bob Dylan once said, âTake care of all your memories.âÂ And we are here to do just that for youâtake care of your memories.Â Whether you have trinkets from a vacation or World War II memorabilia, we can help you customize a frame design suitable for housing your memories that also fits with your home decor.Â Getting those memories out of the closet or the drawer and displayed on the wall lets you enjoy them over and over.

Oh Baby! - July 2012

Mon, 25 Jun 2012 22:43:15 +0100

On May 11, 2012 proud parents Jenny and Steve Young along with big sister Sierra and big brother Luke welcomed a handsome baby boy into the world.

Frame Your Vacation Memories

Mon, 25 Jun 2012 22:42:18 +0100

Imagine your fondest memories hanging in the den or living room for you to enjoy every day.Â Souvenirs and mementos from a fun vacation can be displayed in a beautiful shadowbox.Â Vacation memories can be prominently displayed in your home instead of packed away in a closet or attic.Â Just come in to our gallery with your items and we will be glad to create a one-of-a-kind memoryâcustom made just for you.Â

Meeting All Your Baking Needs Clariceâs Cake and Candy Supplies

Mon, 25 Jun 2012 22:41:46 +0100

Located on Lyons Avenue in Newhall, Clariceâs Cake and Candy Supplies has been serving the Santa Clarita Valley for 35 years, and just last month, Nanci Olmos, celebrated her 25-year anniversary as owner.Â From cake decorating classes, candy making, baking supplies and more, residents have been coming to Clariceâs for years to get every baking item you could ever imagine or want!Â

The Beauty of Shea Butter

Mon, 25 Jun 2012 22:41:18 +0100

With summer upon us, it is time to take extra good care of our skin and Ma Maison has just the right addition to your daily routine: French Milled Shea Butter Bar Soaps.Â Bar soaps seem old fashioned but they are truly making a big comeback because of the naturally rich oils and emollients that are being added to a classic well made bar of soap.Â Letâs talk about some of the benefits:

Art Gallery and Museum Custom Framing Expansion Dave & Barbara Joseph to Give You Better Service

Mon, 25 Jun 2012 22:40:25 +0100

Well summer weather is upon us, and it is time to enjoy the outdoors, and visit B&R Gallery.Â We are expanding the Canyon Country location by adding on 3,000 square feet of Gallery by adding on upstairs, so we will have more artwork, and surprises in store for you as well as more artwork by local artists, and photographers.

Dads & Grads Guide - June 2012

Fri, 01 Jun 2012 17:41:00 +0100

Are you looking for something for your dad or your grad?

well you have come to the right place we have put together a guide for you!

This Summer, Release Your Inner Artist

Tue, 29 May 2012 23:32:48 +0100

Summers are special in the Santa Clarita Valley.Â The hot temperatures add sizzle to our lively concerts, wonderful parades, and the hundreds of ways we find to liberate our creativity.Â We hesitate to call our personal creative output âArt,â but, like beauty, it is in the eye of the beholder.Â Fortunately, that beholder is you!Â To begin, all you need is to grab what is accessible right in front of you.You might make a 4th of July collage from last yearâs leftover holiday plates and p ...

The Great Outdoors...

Tue, 29 May 2012 23:32:14 +0100

This term does not apply to just the wilderness anymore.Â For the last several years, in the home dÃ©cor industry we have seen the uprising lifestyle trend that the indoors have been moving outdoors.Â With the economy influencing decisions to dine and entertain at home, consumers are using their outdoor spaces as prime extensions of their living space at home.Â Outdoor entertaining areas are a must in new home building and remodeling.Â Especially in parts of the country where the outdoor ent ...

Dads and Grads

Tue, 29 May 2012 23:31:24 +0100

Fatherâs Day is almost here and what will you get for dad this year?Â Instead of running out and buying yet another shirt or something else he really doesnât need or want, think about what is near and dear to him.Â What might he want to show off in his office or den?Â Think about hobbies, collections, or his favorite sports team.Â It might be fun to drag out his old football jersey from high school, or find his service medals and give them the recognition they deserve.Â At FASTFRAME, we ...

Letâs Talk About Art â Did You Know? - June 2012

Tue, 29 May 2012 23:30:09 +0100

Nationwide, forecasts for jobs have increased and also here in Santa Clarita, yet there are still many people that need employment.Â Each day I drive down Lyons Avenue and pass the new library that is being built.Â I wish that an art center was being built, and if we can, build an art center that would create jobs for many people.Â How can this city of Santa Clarita ever have an art center?Â Maybe new city council members TimBen Boydston and Bob Kellar can help make this happen.Â In the mea ...

Painter of Light Thomas Kinkade, 1958-2012

Tue, 29 May 2012 23:29:07 +0100

It has been almost a month now since we heard the sad news of the passing of Thomas Kinkade, one of the most successful artists and painters of all time.Â Known as the âPainter of Lightâ he brought joy and beauty to people everywhere and his art graces the walls of countless homes across the globe. While his passing signals the end of a highly productive artistic career, it certainly does not signal an end to the appeal and acceptance of his art, as witnessed by the unprecedented demand for ...

Local Author Makes a Stand for the Environment

Sat, 21 Apr 2012 02:59:52 +0100

Local author, Brandi Junious, has recently published her first environmental childrenâs book titled A World Without Trees. A World Without Trees explains the effects of deforestation on animals, habitats and the environment as a whole.Â The story, conveyed in a child-friendly fashion, helps kids in and out of the classroom understand the impact humans have on the environment and encourages them to preserve it.Â

Your Family and Your Memories!

Sat, 21 Apr 2012 02:59:07 +0100

Barbara, my wife of 31 years, along with our sons Derek andÂ Steven are blessed to have lived in the Santa Clarita Valley and be surrounded by so many great people and families.Â There is so much to be thankful for, especially when you look at what is happening in the rest of the world today. Â With much to do here in Southern California we have the opportunity to enjoy our lives with loved ones and friends.Â

Inside the ARTree

Sat, 21 Apr 2012 02:58:36 +0100

Inside what?Â You might ask.Â They donât even have a building to call home!
Exactly!Â We donât, and that is why Iâm writing this article.

Did You Know the Mirror Image of Mom is Wow?

Sat, 21 Apr 2012 02:57:59 +0100

The second Sunday in May is a very special day dating back to the 1870âs, yes that is right, Motherâs Day is here again andÂ why not let that wow sentiment be the theme of this holiday.Â May 9Â is a day which we pay tribute to mothers, grandmothers, mothers-to-be, mother-in-laws, step mothers, and mothers of the heart.

The Seventh Annual Memorial Garden Tour

Sat, 21 Apr 2012 02:57:24 +0100

Held on Sunday, May 6, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., we have nine showcase gardens (eight private, one public) scattered throughout Santa Clarita Valley.Â The gardens will range from the most incredible architectural design to the most humble cottage gardens.Â This is a self-guided tour where your donation is a freewill offering.Â

A Lasting Gift for Motherâs Day

Sat, 21 Apr 2012 02:56:39 +0100

Motherâs Day will be a little different for us this year.Â Sadly, we lost Randyâs mom a little over a year ago.Â Fortunately we still have my mom with us, but recently had to make the very difficult decision to move her into an assisted living facility.Â It was heart wrenching for me because I knew how much she loved her home and enjoyed all of her things.Â

Message from the City Manager Ken Pulskamp - May 2012

Fri, 20 Apr 2012 02:29:00 +0100

May 2012 marks 10 months since the City of Santa Clarita took over the ownership and operation of our three local libraries, and I thought this might be a good time to share with you what has been happening.As you may know, the City of Santa Clarita took over the local libraries last July.Â During the first week of operation of the three branches, the City infused $1 million in new books and media, extended the operating hours by 19 percent, and increased the annual purchase of materials by 67 ...

News from SCV - Newhall Optimist Club - May 2012

Fri, 20 Apr 2012 02:25:08 +0100

As I stated in last monthâs column, I would announce any winners of our essay applicants and, sorry to report, none were placed.Â But again, would like to thank them for their entry and, as the saying goes, âThere is always next year.â In keeping up with our scholarship program, we had our club oratorical contest at La Mesa and the winner for the girls was, Paulina Cedillo , and for the boys, Matthew Chang.Â Both of these fine youngsters compete in the next phase of the contest on April ...

Picture Framing Design

Tue, 27 Mar 2012 21:35:06 +0100

The art of picture framing design is like no other.Â It involves many levels of artistic sense and the coordination of multiple elements to create a single artistic statement.Â A great design will play off of the artworkâs color spectrum, textural qualities and emotional statement and will serve to embellish and re-enforce the artwork.Â Ultimately, the framing and the artwork will blend together into a single visual experience that is greater than the combination of the elements.

Letâs Talk About Art â Did You Know? - April 2012

Tue, 27 Mar 2012 21:34:31 +0100

My question to you... âDo you know who Ansel Adams is?âÂ I found out that many people in Santa Clarita know who Ansel Adams is, as they came on Saturday, February 25 to the lecture about his photography.Â The lecture was held in the Century Room of City Hall.Â People came to see his photographs and hear about his life as a photographer.

New Terpning Hardcover Book

Tue, 27 Mar 2012 21:33:17 +0100

A Tribute to the Plains People and New Limited Edition Release and DVD Set. Greenwich Workshop has published a stunning hardcover book about Master Western artist, Howard Terpning with 184 pages and 126 illustrations of Howardâs Artwork. The book, A Tribute to the Plains People, will also be available as a signed and numbered collectorâs edition along with the new release Masterwork Canvas of Traders Among the Crow and a DVD on Howardâs life and the painting of Traders Among the Crow. ...

Zonta Club of Santa Clarita Valley Improving the Lives of Women through Service, Advocacy and ...

Tue, 27 Mar 2012 21:32:09 +0100

Zontaâs monthly LifeForward workshops will be held at Desert Streams Church, 26873 Reuther Avenue, Canyon Country, and will begin at 10 a.m. concluding at 1 p.m.Â âFinding the Right Jobâ is scheduled for Saturday, April 28 and âResume Writingâ is scheduled for Saturday, May 19.Â Other topics will cover âInterviewing Skillsâ and âWorkplace Success.âÂ

City Launches 25th Anniversary Webpage Cheers to 25 Years Includes City Milestones and Quiz

Tue, 27 Mar 2012 21:31:00 +0100

In celebration of the Santa Claritaâs 25th year of cityhood, new web pages have been added to the Cityâs website at www.santa-clarita.com/25. Â
The 25th anniversary pages include messages from the Santa Clarita City Council and City Manager, a historical look at the area, as well as a birthday quiz about the City.Â

The Magic of Exploratory Art

Tue, 27 Mar 2012 21:30:32 +0100

My fourth grade teacher walked around our classroom one day with an old, burgundy velvet bag.Â âReach in and choose somethingâ, she said.Â We all were very curious, then proceeded to write our stories about the small, mysterious object that we each had selected.Â I can still remember the excitement and intrigue of that writing project.Â The magic of it was that it was a free, adventurous, âwho knew where it would end upâ creative experience.

Mirror Mirror on the Wallâ¦

Tue, 27 Mar 2012 21:30:02 +0100

Mirrors can make the greatest change of all.Â There is nothing that can date a home more than the look of an older bathroom or kitchen.Â Yet if youâre anything like us, the thought of remodeling any part of the house is a frightening and disruptive process.Â When we moved into our home here in Santa Clarita over 18 years ago, all of the new homes had those large, flat mirrors over the bathroom vanity.Â You know the ones weâre talking about.Â

Reduce Noise in Your Home and Reduce Stress

Tue, 27 Mar 2012 21:29:36 +0100

We all know that unwanted noise can raise your stress level, whether itâs barking dogs, screaming kids or loud music.Â But your home is supposed to be your haven, a place of peace and at Ma Maison we always strive to give you tips to create that sanctuary.Â You can easily transform your home into an oasis of tranquility and harmony by following some simple sound-reducing tips:

Rare Thomas Kinkade Original Painting "Christmas Tree Cottage" and Sold Out at ...

Mon, 27 Feb 2012 22:20:38 +0100

Most people are familiar with the art of Thomas Kinkade, and his beautiful light filled scenes, but his original paintings areÂ veryÂ rare.
We have one of them available called âChristmas Tree Cottageâ--a classic Kinkade painting and a wonderful acquisition.

A Cold Beer Never Looked So Good

Mon, 27 Feb 2012 22:19:52 +0100

Santa Clarita residents will be able to celebrate this spring with the areaâs first Celtic-themed pub and sports bar chain.
Tilted Kilt is located in the Valencia Town Center off McBean and Town Center Drive in the 8,600 square foot space at 24300 Town Center Drive, Suite 110 in Valencia.

Letâs Talk About Art â Did You Know? - March 2012

Mon, 27 Feb 2012 22:19:07 +0100

The months are flying and everyone is hurrying to get income taxes filed hoping there will be a return from the federal government.Â In the last few months I have written about the need for the city of Santa Clarita to create an Art Center or a Art Museum, either one would be appreciated.Â

A Guyâs Take On Being Single in Santa Clarita

Mon, 27 Feb 2012 22:18:09 +0100

Thru my travels, there is a woman who I run into every once in a while.Â This is not just any woman; she is an 11, on a scale of one to 10, the kind of woman that made me stutter, when I talked to her.Â Well, one day I got the courage up to ask her out, and no, I did not stutter.Â To my surprise she said yes.Â We went out and had a great time, so we decided to go on a second date.Â I took her out to a very nice place for dinner, no not McDonalds.Â The date went great, we talked for hours, ...

Help Bring "Carlton" Home

Mon, 27 Feb 2012 22:17:18 +0100

He is a beautiful and bright little four-year-old boy, waiting for a home.Â Born abroad, âCarltonâ (whoâs real name cannot be revealed due to the law in his home country prohibiting it) is considered âdisabledâ and has some issues with his legs and cannot walk just yet.Â Currently, he is in a hospital in Russia, recovering from surgery and awaiting his transfer to the âmental institution.âÂ âThere is nothing psychologically wrong with him,â states Laura Bailey.Â âItâs a ...

Be Careful with Candles

Mon, 27 Feb 2012 22:16:41 +0100

Few things can make you feel quite as cozy as the warm glow and pleasant aroma of scented candles.Â While soft candlelight and a welcoming fragrance can enhance your home, you should be aware that burning candles could also be damaging it.
Insurance claims for soot damage have increased in the past several years, in direct relation to an increase in candle sales.

The Big Picture

Mon, 27 Feb 2012 22:15:48 +0100

They say a picture is worth 1,000 words.Â If that is the case, then the picture frame should be worth $1,000, right?Â Wrong!Â Actually, value and worth are very subjective.Â Art is in the eye of the beholder and one manâs trash is another manâs treasure.Â But one thing is constant, we all want the most bang for the buck.Â Whether it is clothing, jewelry, lumber or picture framing, we all want the highest quality, the largest selection and the best workmanship at the lowest price. Â

Flower Frenzy and Moreâ¦At FASTFRAME USA on March 10!

Mon, 27 Feb 2012 22:15:00 +0100

Spring is almost here, and what a great way to celebrate the season than by attending an Artistâs Reception & Art Exhibit featuring different Impressionist flower paintings from a local artist!Â Mark your calendar, Saturday, March 10, from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.

Why FASTFRAME?

Mon, 27 Feb 2012 22:13:59 +0100

When searching for a Frame shop there are a lot of things to consider.Â At FASTFRAME we pride ourselves on some of those services that make us stand above the rest.Â We are nationally known but locally owned.Â Having been members of the community for over 18 years, our customers are our friends and neighbors.Â We personally service each and every one of you.Â We believe in providing the best customer service possible.Â All of the work is done right here on the premises and we are able to p ...

The Things You Love

Mon, 30 Jan 2012 22:50:06 +0100

February is the month of love, the month where Cupid weighs his heavy bow upon those waiting underneath.Â If you happen to get struck by the hefty heart-shaped arrow, your month might be filled with romantic and heartfelt nights. Filled with romantic nights in dim-lit restaurants while you order the dinner-for-two and find red roses on your step.Â But if Cupid raises his bow and happens to sneeze, he might point the arrow elsewhere.Â Yes, you can curse the mythological creature for missing hi ...

Beautiful New Original Paintings and Sold Out at Publisher Limited Editions Russian Painters ...

Mon, 30 Jan 2012 22:49:22 +0100

We have some beautiful new paintings just off the easel by award-winning painters, Michael and Inessa Garmash, as well as some of their sold-out at publisher limited editions to share with you.Mr. and Mrs. Garmash are considered two of the finest Romantic Impressionists of our day.Â Their incredible talent is only matched by their love and career stories.Â The award-winning artists have painted together for many years, and their sold-out at publisher limited editions can be difficult to come b ...

Happy Valentine's Day Everyone!

Mon, 30 Jan 2012 22:48:45 +0100

Yes, love is definitely in the air here at Valencia FASTFRAME.Â After all, we love designing new unique framing ideas with our customers.Â We have well over 1,100 frames and an endless number of Mat and Liner combinations to choose from.Â We can create an unforgettable art piece for you or your special someone this Valentineâs Day using the latest Frame-Vue technology that allows you to see your masterpiece before you buy it.Â How cool is that, and our customers love it!Â We know that cho ...

My Life with Art

Mon, 30 Jan 2012 22:48:08 +0100

Art has always been a part of my life.Â There is a joy that flows out of me and into the work of art I create.Â Even when the work is a struggle, it is still something that demands its own time and space.Â It evolves as if on its own volition.Â My friends who are artists feel that same insistence from their art.Â It calls to them, waiting impatiently to move from vision to reality.Â Art is inside us, sometimes a whisper, sometimes a shout, clamoring to get out.Â Art dances in our heads. ...

Citizen's Rights Should We Take Them Away?

Mon, 30 Jan 2012 22:47:25 +0100

Forty-two (42) States allow open carry of firearms.Â Most states are relaxing on their gun laws but not California.Â It seems to me that most people I talk to have their minds already made up on the issue of gun control. Most Americans are smart enough to educate themselves on the laws, their rights, and historical events.Â Right?Â After all, donât we want to ensure that we are properly guarded/protected against the repeat of negative historical events, regardless if itâs from a natural ...

Artisan Row Home Arts and Crafts Show

Mon, 30 Jan 2012 22:46:46 +0100

Are you a crafty person who loves to create?Â Well then you wonât want to miss out in participating at the Artisan Row Home Arts and Crafts Show. Â
The schedule of events are as follows:

Print It, Frame It, Give It

Mon, 30 Jan 2012 22:45:55 +0100

The New Year is underway and Valentineâs Day is around the corner.Â As I watch my daughter play with her NOOK tablet that she got for Christmas, I am amazed by all the new technology.Â The digital age allows us to do things in a matter of minutes that used to take us weeks to accomplish. One example of this is the field of photography.Â The days of loading film, shooting pictures and waiting to get them developed are long gone.Â Digital photography allows us to see our pictures instantly a ...

The Gift of Giving

Mon, 30 Jan 2012 22:45:03 +0100

Ma Maison is proudly entering our ninth year of business and wanted to thank the Santa Clarita Valley for its continued patronage and support.Â The gift business is about more than just selling stuff.Â Shoppers come to us to help them celebrate some of the very momentous events in life: weddings, births, anniversaries, birthdays and general pick me ups (which we all can use).Â We donât just sell gifts and dÃ©cor â we sell happiness.

Oh Baby! - Feburary 2012

Mon, 30 Jan 2012 22:43:56 +0100

Thereâs nothing more exciting than welcoming a new baby into this world, nothing more cute than their tiny little fingers and toes, nothing more sweet than the sounds of the newborn babyâs cry.Â Â After nine months of anticipation, your little one has finally arrived, making his or her debut into the world.Â While you may have kissed a full nightâs rest goodbye, you welcome your baby with open arms and a heart full of love.

The Struggle of Coping with Loss Learning to Let Go and Move On

Mon, 30 Jan 2012 22:43:09 +0100

Distraught and running her fingers over weepy eyes, Jill related how her 29-year-old son died of a drug overdose and was found in a portable toilet in Los Angeles.Â A sheriff had visited her home to tell her what had happened.âItâs about your son,â he started.Â âDonât you tell me my son is dead!âÂ Jill screamed.Â âDonât you do it!âÂ In tears, Jill described how she would have broken everything in her house and bolted out, had not the sheriff been there. Jillâs terror, he ...

Chatsworth Company Practices Corporate Good

Wed, 28 Dec 2011 23:09:59 +0100

As Americans continue to face challenging economic circumstances, stories of corporate greed and injustice seem to dominate the media.Â This, however, is not one of those stories.Â This is the story of corporate generosity and social responsibility, wherein two successful business partners team with their employees to extend much needed help to children. Â

Cheers to New Year's

Wed, 28 Dec 2011 23:07:34 +0100

New Year.Â New start.Â New ideas.Â New chances.Â New growths.Â New regrets.Â When the clock strikes 12, I will not have a prince chasing me with a glass slipper in hand.Â I will not be wondering what happened to the precious time that has slipped away so fast yet again.Â Instead, I will be toasting to an unimaginable new journey I cannot wait to dive into.Â It is exciting to look forward to the unknown and even more exciting to wake up on January 1st with a fresh perspective.

Get Your Pictures in Shape for the New Year

Wed, 28 Dec 2011 23:06:59 +0100

The New Year is here and it is time to shed those holiday pounds and to get back in shape for the challenges that lay ahead.Â A new diet and a few weeks at the gym will get you back into your favorite outfit just in time for Valentines Day.Â But, your body isnât the only thing that needs a make over.Â Look at all the pictures on your walls.Â

Let's Talk About Art â Did You Know?

Wed, 28 Dec 2011 23:06:33 +0100

It finally has happenedâ¦ the Santa Clarita Artist Association has now been given a space for them to open an art gallery, which will be a wonderful place to see original art created by members of the artist association.Â Whoopee!Â

Zonta Club of Santa Clarita Valley

Wed, 28 Dec 2011 23:05:38 +0100

Zonta presented Virginia Wrage Memorial Grants totaling $7,000 to six deserving women at the December Business Meeting.Â The fund is for mature women who are at a crossroad following life-altering event(s) and need assistance. Heather Marie Arens, a single mother, while working full time, entered the nursing program at College of the Canyons (COC); neck injuries on the job required a change to a physicianâs assistant.Â Fractured vertebrae from a fall required another change, to a psychology ...

Original Paintings and Limited Editions by Richard Johnson

Wed, 28 Dec 2011 23:04:01 +0100

We are pleased to offer a selection of original paintings and hand-embellished limited edition giclÃ©e canvases by artist Richard Johnson.

Some Cold Weather Tips

Wed, 28 Dec 2011 23:03:13 +0100

While at Home: As the temperature starts to drop there are important safety tips to get you through the cold season.Â Year after year, homes are destroyed and lives are lost because certain safety precautions arenât taken. Â
Keeping heaters too close to flammable materials or leaving a fireplace unattended overnight may have disastrous consequences.Â

Ever-changing is Everlasting

Wed, 28 Dec 2011 23:02:24 +0100

Who knew that ever-changing would be everlasting.
What did I get myself into when I agreed to be part of an ARTree team to produce a one hundred-foot by sixteen-foot mural on a wall?Â The team was newly formed and had never worked together.Â My task was simply to design the first of future murals.Â Thus given is the muralâs name, âEver-changing.â

Preserving Your Holiday Memories

Wed, 28 Dec 2011 23:00:53 +0100

Happy New Year everyone!Â Hopefully you enjoyed the holidays as much as we did at FASTFRAME.Â With many family members at the house, some from out of town and havenât been seen for a while, all of those digital cameras were flashing and clicking up a storm.Â Well now that all the excitement of the holidays has past, now is the time to preserve all of those wonderful memories.Â

Welcome 2012 â Are We Looking Bare?

Wed, 28 Dec 2011 23:00:25 +0100

Dear Friends and Customers,
As another year folds close it is time to look forward into 2012 and greet the New Year.Â We at Ma Maison want to take this opportunity to thank all of your loyal customers and the City of Santa Clarita for continuing to support our little boutique and we wish everyone and their familiesâ prosperity and health for 2012.Â Our community gives us the opportunity to still do what we love and we truly appreciate it!

Credit Fraud

Tue, 29 Nov 2011 22:53:50 +0100

Continued from last monthâs article, the Internet is popular for shoppers.Â Here are some tips that can make your experience safe and enjoyable.Â Make sure that a reseller is reputable.Â Call them and ask for assistance in buying something.Â Are they knowledgeable or not?Â Email them and ensure that you get a response.Â Obtain a physical address.Â Be wary of emails where a credit card was not used to open an account.Â

Let's Talk About Art

Tue, 29 Nov 2011 22:53:22 +0100

The time has come the walrus said to speak of many things, of shoes and ships and ceiling wax and cabbages and kings.Â This month of December we will all be talking about Christmas shopping and purchasing gifts for our family, friends and even relatives.Â How do we decide what to buy for all the loved ones we plan to give a gift to?Â Do we look for something that is unique and very creative?Â When I buy Christmas gifts I want to give something that will be a surprise.Â

A Guy's Take On Being Single in Santa Clarita

Tue, 29 Nov 2011 22:49:59 +0100

Since my divorce many years ago, I have been on a number of dates.Â Yes itâs a large number.Â So now you wonder why, after all this time I have not found her?Â Well I thought I had a few times, but something would always come up.Â Letâs see a show of hands for anyone who has ever dated someone, only to find out they had some red flags.Â Now for some of you who may not know this term, this has nothing to do with bug spray.Â

Oh Baby! Special Delivery

Tue, 29 Nov 2011 22:49:26 +0100

We had a very special delivery on Friday, November 11 at 11:11 a.m.

Holiday Gifts â Think Different

Tue, 29 Nov 2011 22:48:20 +0100

This holiday we each have the opportunity toÂ give to our loved ones and give back to our society at the same time.Â Sort of like âpay it forwardâ.
When we purchase something made locally or a service provided by local people, the amount we pay goes back into our local economy (rather than the economy of another country). Â

The Simple Life

Tue, 29 Nov 2011 22:47:41 +0100

Some of the best insight comes when it is least expected.Â I gained a new perspective after a quick dinner conversation with my grandparents, a.k.a Nana and Papa.Â My Papa started to tell me a small, but significantly insightful story about his childhood.Â He asked me if I knew what an icebox was.Â Although I did know the answer, I never knew the deeper stories that I would soon learn.Â

New by G. Harvey Available from B & R Gallery

Tue, 29 Nov 2011 22:45:20 +0100

We have some great new limited editions and original paintings by beloved artist G. Harvey available from B & R Gallery.The new releases, Music of Manhattan and Cowhands of the West, showcase G. Harveyâs sought-after turn-of-the-century street scenes and famous Western artwork.G. Harvey travels to many places for inspiration, and New York City is one of his favorite locales.Â Turn-of-the-century New York and its crowds of people, street cars, and carriages come together to create âThe Music ...

Warm Winter Wishes

Tue, 29 Nov 2011 22:21:31 +0100

In sunny Santa Clarita it is hard to think about Christmas time being a cold season, but low and behold we will have some chilly weather; whether or not it is before Christmas remains to be seen.

Choosing the Right Framer

Tue, 29 Nov 2011 22:20:14 +0100

Okay!Â You have finally decided that it is time to custom frame that painting or photograph which you have been holding on to.Â You have never had a picture custom framed before and you are anxious about where to go and how much to spend.Â So, here are some guidelines to help you in your search for the right framer.No two framers are the same.Â They may have a similar selection of mats and moldings and their basic design approach may be similar but, the interpretation of the art, the knowled ...

A Gift That Lasts All Year Long!

Tue, 29 Nov 2011 22:16:28 +0100

Right now it may seem like you have plenty of Christmas and Hanukkah shopping days left, but before you know it youâll be racing from store to store along with a thousand other last minute shoppers trying to find that perfect gift for those friends and relatives who are particularly hard to shop for.Â Well, why not make your life a lot easier by giving the person who has everything a one-of-a-kind custom framed treasure?

Holiday Gift Guide - Nov 2011

Wed, 26 Oct 2011 19:43:09 +0100

Take a look at our Holiday Gift Guide for all of your holiday needs!

Oh Baby!

Mon, 24 Oct 2011 22:25:32 +0100

On October 6, 2011 proud parents Shane Holt and Daisy Alvarez welcomed a handsome baby boy into the world. Shane Michael Holt Jr. was born weighing seven pounds, six ounces and was 20-and-a-half inches long.Â

SCV's Literacy & Arts Festival

Mon, 24 Oct 2011 22:24:25 +0100

Santa Claritaâs Literacy & Arts Festival is just around the corner on December 3 at Newhall Park in Newhall.Â In its fifth year, the festival is a community wide event with entertainment and sights to enthrall all ages.Â As the name says, the focus is on literacy and arts of all types.Â It is an event to promote the importance of reading and the arts in education and in our lives in a fun way.Â Reading and being involved in some form of art is not only beneficial but it is fun and entertai ...

On The Way

Mon, 24 Oct 2011 22:23:20 +0100

Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church is proud to present Dancing with the Priests.Â For the past two months, Fr. Richard Martini, Fr. Raymond Marquez and Fr. Norm Supancheck have been taking ballroom dance lessons from Wilfredo Mora of DâWilfri DanceArt and Entertainment in preparation for a Gala to be held at the Hyatt Valencia on November 11.Â Fr. Martini is the pastor of OLPH and Fr. Raymond, an associate.Â Fr. Norm hails from Alemany High School.Â Together with their partners, Ingrid Blan ...

Credit Fraud

Mon, 24 Oct 2011 22:22:22 +0100

Here are some tips to reduce the likelihood of becoming a victim of fraud.Â First off, what is fraud?Â Fraud is the intentional deception for personal gain without regard to the welfare of another.Â Fraud is a crime and a civil law violation.Â Several types of fraud or scams exist, however the most prolific, according to the FBI, are: Investment, Internet, and those that target Senior Citizens. Anyone is at risk, however, the elderly, children and young adults are more than ever being target ...

A Gift That Keeps On Giving

Mon, 24 Oct 2011 22:20:26 +0100

With the holidays fast approaching, we are all looking for gift ideas.Â Typically, most of us will give practical gifts like clothes and work related gifts.Â But, this year, I recommend going out of your comfort zone and exploring the many gift ideas available at Valencia Art & Framing in Granary Square.Â A new and unique custom frame shop, owned by Peter and Rhonda Smith, that offers limitless possibilities for creating a special piece of wall art for that special someone.When you first ente ...

Celebrate the Season with Custom Framing

Mon, 24 Oct 2011 22:10:24 +0100

Well happy holidays from FASTFRAME.Â Yes, itâs that time again.Â Holiday season is upon us and is in full swing.Â If you have been to one of the big box retail stores lately you already know that the Christmas trees are fully decorated, holiday lights and festive colors are on display throughout the store.Â We know youâre looking for the perfect gift this year, arenât we all?

A Guy's Take On Being Single in Santa Clarita

Mon, 24 Oct 2011 22:08:43 +0100

A few weeks back, I met this very nice lady at a store I was shopping in.Â We hit it off immediately, and she gave me her phone number to set up a date.Â That weekend we met up for coffeeâ¦ what else.Â I knew we were both attracted, so I asked to see her that night.Â She said sure, letâs meet for dinner.Â Now we are at dinner having a wonderful time, when I started thinking about what some of my friends said to me days before.Â

A New Generation

Mon, 24 Oct 2011 22:07:18 +0100

There seems to be a new generation on the rise.Â Not only on the rise, but very much in full swing as you read this now.Â The tides have shifted and the way we live our lives today is far beyond the reminiscence of the past.At the age of 24 my mother was chasing two children around while pregnant with her third.Â As I watched my 24th birthday pass by, I realized I am closer to turning 30 than I am to starting a family.Â Could I actually picture myself being able to support a family of five?Â ...

Judy Larson Art Show New Original Paintings

Mon, 24 Oct 2011 22:05:45 +0100

Plus Judy will hand-embellish limited edition canvases at no charge. Sunday November 13, from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m., world-renowned artist Judy Larson will meet collectors in person, answer questions, and also hand-embellish limited edition canvases for the first 20 B & R customers to pre-order or order at the show.Â Also the show display of Judyâs work will run from November 13 through December 15 at the B&R Gallery.

Let The "Best Boutique" Winner Help With Your Holidays

Mon, 24 Oct 2011 22:01:30 +0100

Custom Framing Versus Readymade Frames

Wed, 28 Sep 2011 20:51:48 +0100

Custom picture framing is an art service that has gotten the reputation for being very expensive and only necessary for valuable works of art.Â But, a good picture framer welcomes the opportunity to help with all your framing needs, no matter how small, and can work with any budget. Unfortunately, due to these times of economic struggle, people are looking for inexpensive alternatives to avoid custom picture framing.Â One popular approach is to buy a mass market readymade frame from a departme ...

Halloween Safety Tips from Cobra Tactical

Wed, 28 Sep 2011 20:50:23 +0100

Halloween is coming up.Â Remember to drive slowly and watch out for all the ghosts and goblins.Â Parents, please check your kidâs goodie bag at each residence.Â Keep your eye on your kids at all times while at events.Â Take a look at your neighborhood sex offender registry.Â Accompany your child or know the route they are taking.Â Itâs dark and drivers canât see as well.Â Kids are wearing black costumes making it even more dangerous.Â

Why Fathers Cross Their Arms!

Wed, 28 Sep 2011 20:49:18 +0100

A few months ago I was invited to entertain at a Father and Child Ice Cream Social that a local school was giving.Â The activity that I presented was an interactive foam rubber assemblage of geometric shapes that I call âbots.âÂ They are big, colorful and require anyone who plays to use their imagination.Â They look complicated but are actually easy and fun to assemble. It seems that in any venue that I take them, the children really enjoy playing with them and are engrossed in all the pa ...

M. Fredric and Maroon 5âs Adam Levine Coming to Westfield Valencia Town Center

Wed, 28 Sep 2011 20:45:52 +0100

On October 18, M. Fredric will celebrate the grand opening of its Valencia location in a star-studded event including an appearance by Adam Levine.Â Adam is son to M. Fredric storeowner Fred Levine.Â For a chance to win VIP tickets to the upcoming event visit Westfield Valencia Town Centerâs Facebook page at Facebook.com/WestfieldValenciaTown Center.

Rare Morgan Weistling Original Painting Available

Wed, 28 Sep 2011 20:45:09 +0100

Many of our collectors have been waiting patiently for one of Morganâs original paintings to become available.Â Morganâs artwork is in such demand there are more buyers than paintings, and often they are sold âby drawâ to the collector whose name is picked from a box filled with names of hopeful collectors.
We are happy to let you know that we have a small original painting titled In Another World that just became available.Â It is a 12â xÂ 9âÂ unframed image size.Â

Holiday Gift Giving

Wed, 28 Sep 2011 20:43:13 +0100

Looking for the perfect gift?Â This holiday season consider giving a personal item that can be enjoyed each and every day of the year.Â Whether youâre looking for something for a family member, friend or business associate, custom framing offers many options.
Consider a print that you know someone on your gift list would love to have or find a favorite photo that is precious to your loved one.Â

Ma Maison is in the Spotlight

Wed, 28 Sep 2011 20:39:55 +0100

As another year sweeps by, we at Ma Maison want to take this opportunity to express our gratitude to our loyal customers and the City of Santa Clarita for continuing to support our little boutique.Â Recently we have garnered some positive press thanks to our community and we proudly wanted to share these accolades with you.On September 3, the Signal newspaper wrote an informative article about the celebration of our eight-year anniversary and the challenges we have faced as a company to make it ...

Situational Awareness (SA)

Mon, 29 Aug 2011 21:10:09 +0100

Self defense starts with you.Â Last month we discussed some doâs and donâts with regard to SA pertaining to self defense.Â Fortunately crime is limited to the minority.Â Therefore, the majority perceive crime as happening to others and unlikely to happen to them.Â This is where you may get into trouble.Â When it comes to SA the majority of people do not take sufficient precautions nor do they plan ahead.Â

New Book Shares SCV Familyâs Inspirational Story

Mon, 29 Aug 2011 21:07:42 +0100

Not many people experience the death of a child; fewer yet face the possibility of having to do it twice. In her new memoir, Blood Brothers, Santa Clarita resident and author Lisa Solis DeLong shares what it has been like to have two sons with leukemia, a lifetime apart. As she struggles to understand how a loving God could allow this to happen, she searches for a way to keep her marriage, her family, and her own sanity together.

Let's Talk About Art â Did You Know? - September 2011

Mon, 29 Aug 2011 21:06:20 +0100

Why do the arts matter?Â Simply put, the arts are essential to the proper functioning of our society.Â The arts continue to demonstrate their ability to provide categorical evidence of their impact on social issues that concern virtually every facet of American society.Â The arts are especially important for our children.Â

AAUW Installs New Officers

Mon, 29 Aug 2011 21:04:58 +0100

At a recent general meeting at The Tea Gardens, AAUW installed new officers.Â The slate of officers forÂ 2011-2012 includes President - Kelly Burke, President-Elect and 1st VPÂ Programs - Diane Bartley, 2nd VP Membership - Barbara Oliver, 3rd VP AAUW Funds â Bernie Gilbert, Recording Secretary - Dot Toral, Treasurer - Jenewyn Van Wie and Public Policy - Linda Hart.Â

From Film to Life James Coleman Fine Art Original Paintings and Limited Editions

Mon, 29 Aug 2011 21:03:34 +0100

The contribution made by James Coleman to the world of art over some 30 years, both in film and fine art, makes him one of the most collected and sought after artists around the world.Â James Coleman pieces can be found in many fine personal and corporate collections including that of the Disney family.

The Ever-Changing Wall

Mon, 29 Aug 2011 21:02:09 +0100

So why would a group of people want to wallpaper oversized childrenâs faces onto a 130âx18â surface?Â It certainly is a big job that takes much effort, coordination and an army of volunteers.
Well itâs no secret that the ARTree believes in spreading its message and planting seeds concerning the arts in the Santa Clarita Valley.Â Sometimes the only way to communicate a message is to do it in a big way.Â

Strength in Numbers

Mon, 29 Aug 2011 21:01:05 +0100

"Mini" Is So Irresistible

Mon, 29 Aug 2011 20:59:52 +0100

What attracted so many of us to move to Santa Clarita is the fact that it is a great place to raise a family.Â The community provides great schools, free children activities and family oriented communities.Â With new little angels arriving daily we all probably know someone having a baby and perhaps you are on the lookout for the newest baby gift idea.

Meeting All Your Art and Framing Needs B & R Gallery and Museum Framing

Thu, 21 Jul 2011 20:11:14 +0100

For 30 years, Dave and Barbara Joseph, owners of B & R Gallery and Museum Framing, have provided the superior service to the community, committing themselves to promoting the world of art and the beauty of it to the public. Their 6,000 square footÂ Gallery &Â Custom Picture Framing facilityÂ space features original paintings, watercolors, posters, limited edition prints and much more.Â At B & R Gallery, you can also get custom framing to suit your needs.Â The professionals at B & R will give y ...

Situational Awareness (SA)

Thu, 21 Jul 2011 20:10:29 +0100

Self-defense starts with you.Â Victims of such crimes as robberies and rapes for example, are chosen by criminals in part because they perceived the victim to be an easy target.Â Keyword here is âperception.âÂ Even during your mundane tasks such as going to the grocery store or to the gym, you can take measures to improve your personal safety.Â We like to assimilate criminals to sharks in that they also attack what appears to be a âtarget of opportunity.âÂ This is where Situational ...

What You Knit with Matters

Thu, 21 Jul 2011 20:09:22 +0100

I may be a newcomer to knitting, but certainly not to all things handmade.Â Something my dad used to say all the time was âThe right tools for the job make the job easier.â The same can be said for any craft, but it often seems that the one craft where this isnât applied to is knitting.Â It didnât occur to me until I had lunch with a fellow knitter recently.Â She said something that really rang true in regard to purchasing lesser quality yarn; âItâs not about how cheaply can I mak ...

Happy Eighth Birthday to Ma Maison

Thu, 21 Jul 2011 20:07:24 +0100

Dear Santa Clarita,

Ma Maison is celebrating its eighth year in business this August and we wanted to take a moment to say thank you from the bottom of our hearts for your support of our little store.Â Your continued patronage over the past eight years has not only kept us SCVâs most unique home dÃ©cor and gift store but has also inspired us to stay innovative in these ever changing economic times.

The Power of Teachers

Thu, 21 Jul 2011 19:49:20 +0100

Iâll never forget her, a silver haired lady in the corner of our classroom.Â She seems very demur sitting there observing all of us, and then she spoke, she was direct, but gentle, stern, but kind, sensitive yet abrupt in her manner of speaking.Little did I know that this woman, in my three year span of high school, would be the single most important person in my life other than my parents.Her name was Mrs. Garcia, she was an Anglo woman married to a Hispanic man, but she had all the fire and ...

Vacation Memories

Thu, 21 Jul 2011 19:48:28 +0100

Photos and souvenirs not only capture the moments you enjoyed while on a vacation, they also have the power to take you back to that special time and place every time you look at them.Â Instead of storing them away to look at on a rainy day, consider showcasing them on your wall so you can enjoy them all year long.Â

The Santa Clarita Valley Deserves a Yarn Shop Too!

Mon, 27 Jun 2011 19:50:52 +0100

Now Santa Clarita can boast having a quality yarn shop right here in its own valley.Â Creative U Studios has decided to focus on their customersâ love of all things related to yarn.Â Theyâve brought in even more great yarn brands such as Plymouth, Blue Heron, Louett, and Feza.Â As they continue to build a great selection of quality yarns, they have focused on building a wide selection of books and patterns to choose from also.Â From how-to books to pattern books to books for children the ...

Earthquake Survival

Mon, 27 Jun 2011 19:50:19 +0100

Living in Southern California brings inherent risk from earthquakes.Â Donât pack up just yet.Â Some of the largest earthquakes have actually occurred in the Midwest.Cobra Tactical is presenting this overview so you can increase your awareness and chances of surviving the âbig one.âÂ Due to the brevity of this article we will not touch on everything.It is inevitable that more earthquakes will occur in our lifetime.Â Will you be prepared?Â Once the shaking starts, it will be too late to ...

Let's Talk About Art â Did You Know?

Mon, 27 Jun 2011 19:49:55 +0100

One thing Americans do not have enough of, is time.Â This statement was made on the NBC Today show several years ago.Â Why is this?Â Are we too busy with our lives and cannot organize our time for pleasure or leisure?Â Or is there another reason we do not have enough time?Â Could the reason be that we are busy raising our children and taking care of our families, getting educational degrees, learning computer skills, exercising, remodeling our homes, planting gardens, taking children to sch ...

Commemorating Events with Family Photographs

Mon, 27 Jun 2011 19:48:51 +0100

With spring cleaning completed and summer vacations ready to start, you may have recently rummaged around in the attic, spare room or garage only to uncover old photographs and other memorabilia that have been buried in a shoebox or storage bin.

Great New Paintings on Stone, Onyx, Travertine and Marble Artwork by Susan von Borstel

Mon, 27 Jun 2011 19:47:33 +0100

We had a fantastic response to the first mailing on Susanâs unique paintings on stone, and many were sold before interestedÂ collectors had a chance to addÂ them to their art collection.Â So, we are really pleased that we have some new paintings from Susan that we can offer.
Susan will be featured in an upcoming issue of Western Art & Architecture, and expect to see more about her art.

Ideas for your Staycation

Mon, 27 Jun 2011 19:44:19 +0100

With so many of us watching our pennies and the increased cost of traveling, many of us may stay in sunny SCV this summer.Â Never fear, there are ways to have a vacation at home that can relax and rejuvenate you, with a little preparation you will feel like you are in five star hotel. First of all, you truly have to commit to taking a few days of true relaxation.Â Just because you are home does not mean that you have to answer your phone, respond to texts, check your updates on Facebook, etcâ ...

Itâs All About the Attitude

Mon, 27 Jun 2011 19:33:53 +0100

The other day I was in a terrible mood, you see I get that way when Iâm asked to do something that is against my nature, and sitting in an art store doing a demonstration on acrylic painting is not at the top of my list.Â The idea of sitting there painting and having kids ask you dumb questions, âAre you a painter?âÂ I say, âNo, Iâm an artist,â or having people bump into you with their shopping cart is not my cup of tea.

Cecily Willis Exhibits at Fast Frame

Wed, 25 May 2011 23:23:41 +0100

Cecily Willis, Santa Clarita Artistsâ Association member, will be exhibiting a show titled Sacred Ordinariness, from June 1 to June 30 at FastFrame, 24204 Valencia Blvd., in Valencia. A free artistâs reception with be on June 4 from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m.
âI love watercolorâitâs a partnership with a Higher Power.

Lockheed Federal Credit Union Gives Back to SCV Community

Wed, 25 May 2011 23:22:37 +0100

While Lockheed Federal Credit Union focuses its business on providing members with excellent products and services, they know that giving back to the community is equally important.
LFCU continues to give time and money back to the communities it serves. In Santa Clarita, LFCU and its employees have contributed more than $60,000 to the Santa Clarita Valley Senior Center Foundation.

Get Back Lost Memories

Wed, 25 May 2011 23:21:46 +0100

Did you know you probably have at least a few forgotten memories stored in your home?Â That old camera negative you cannot decipher, or videotape that you donot have a player for anymore probably have lost memories on them.Â By scanning your negative strips and slides from years past you can view images that you probably have not seen for decades.

Making the Grade

Wed, 25 May 2011 23:20:45 +0100

School spirit does not end on graduation day; just ask the alumni who show their school support by painting their faces and donning brightly colored wigs at football games.Â Of course, there are also subtle ways to support your alma mater, like displaying your hard-earned diploma for everyone to see.Â

Letâs Talk About Art â Did You Know? Early Struggles for Art to be Part of Public ...

Wed, 25 May 2011 23:20:01 +0100

When the Puritans landed on the East coast their intent was to build a church to worship in and houses to live in.Â The Puritans came from England to live where they could have the freedom to worship as they pleased.Â The Puritanical philosophy saw arts as an image not to pursue and was sinful and forbidden under Biblical beliefs.Â

He Popped the Questionâ¦Now What?

Wed, 25 May 2011 23:19:36 +0100

Getting engaged is one of the most exciting times for a woman.Â No matter what age you are, to have the butterflies and the anticipation of knowing you will spend the rest of your life with the person you love can be exhilarating.Â But wait!Â Now that you have the bling bling, the planning stages startâ¦.where do you begin?

G. HarveyâSpirit of America New Exhibit at B & R Gallery

Wed, 25 May 2011 23:18:33 +0100

B & R Gallery is proud to offer the artwork of G. Harvey, beloved painter of the Spirit of America, as featured in the new G. Harvey exhibit on our website.
G. Harvey is not only an extraordinary painter, but an accomplished sculptor.Â His original works and bronze sculptures are in the collections of major corporations, prestigious museums, American presidents, governors, foreign leaders, and captains of industry.Â

What Can I Do with My Old Memories?

Tue, 26 Apr 2011 20:39:17 +0100

Digital cameras have changed the way we look at our memories.Â You can go to iPhoto or any digital photo program and pull up photos and video in a flash. Your past is at your fingertips.Â But before you purchased that first digital camera you had film and videotape cameras.Â Do you ever wonder what to do about those boxes that have accumulated over the years with photos, negative and videotapes?Â

Embracing All Cultures

Tue, 26 Apr 2011 20:38:08 +0100

On Thursday May 5, there will be a celebration on Main Street Old Town Newhall.
This event is called, âA Taste of Cinco de Mayoâ a celebration of Latino culture.
The Old Town Newhall Association, The City of Santa Clarita, and The SCV Latino Chamber of Commerce have joined together in this effort.

SCV Food Pantry Helps Local Families Prepare for Disaster through Derek Morton Memorial Fund

Tue, 26 Apr 2011 20:37:20 +0100

The motto of the Boy Scouts of America is Be Prepared.Â Eagle Scout, Saugus High School Graduate (class of 1993) and Santa Clarita Valley resident, Derek Morton saw first hand the benefit of being prepared while serving the community as a Santa Monica police officer.

ZOE Fans and Followers Unite Against Human Trafficking

Tue, 26 Apr 2011 20:36:23 +0100

These days, new technologies sprout up faster than weeds.Â But unlike the pesky plant-life, which can both steal time and demolish rosebushes, the technologies, for the most part, provide interesting content and creative ways to stay connected to the world.Â ZOE Childrenâs Homes is happy to invite everyone to join them as they gain popularity in the social networking world.ZOE Childrenâs Homes is a non-profit organization based in Santa Clarita whose mission is rescuing children who are vu ...

Zonta Club of Santa Clarita Valley Improving the Lives of Women Through Service, Advocacy and ...

Tue, 26 Apr 2011 20:34:43 +0100

Zontaâs LifeForward workshops will be held at Desert Streams Church, 26873 Reuther Avenue in Canyon Country, and will begin at 10 a.m. concluding at 1 p.m.Â Five workshops comprise this series about Finding and Thriving in the Perfect Job.Â The remaining two workshops in the series are âHow to Prepare for that Important Interview!â which is scheduled for May 14.Â

Let"s Talk About Art â Did You Know?

Tue, 26 Apr 2011 20:33:55 +0100

The 21st century is now upon us and bringing many social changes as schools are struggling to deal with their budgets and retain teachers and arts programs.
Trouble for arts began in public schools when the passage of Californiaâs Proposition 13 cut local tax revenues for public schools and virtually eliminated arts programs at the elementary level.

Pawn Shops â Just Like A Bank!

Tue, 26 Apr 2011 20:22:18 +0100

We are proud to have served the community of Santa Clarita for 20 years.Â All of our customers are treated with the respect and are our most important asset.Â Pawnshops have been around longer than banks and we should not be ashamed to use these services.Â We are just like a bank, loan office or credit union.Â When you get a collateral loan you have up to four months to redeem your merchandise.

Framing the Future

Tue, 26 Apr 2011 20:21:30 +0100

Graduation is a special time to celebrate achievements and look forward to the future.Â Give your graduateâs academic degree the importance it deserves in a custom frame.Â Not only will the proper frame help preserve this precious document for the future, it will create a beautiful presentation to enjoy now.

Beautiful New Exhibit Original Paintings and Limited Editions Russian Painters Michael and ...

Tue, 26 Apr 2011 20:20:33 +0100

We are pleased to share our new exhibit of artwork by award-winning painters, Michael and Inessa Garmash.
Mr. and Mrs. Garmash are considered two of the finest Romantic Impressionists of our day.Â Their incredible talent is only matched by their love and career stories.Â In similar fashion to the determination of his artwork, Mr. Garmash courted his future wife, after seeing her for but a moment, by painting her image all over her hometown while she slept.Â

Making Time for Youâ¦For Your Craftâ¦For Your Sanity

Tue, 26 Apr 2011 20:18:35 +0100

You know the old saying, âIf Mama ainât happy then no oneâs happy.âÂ We all know itâs true.Â We are the center of the household, the master of ceremonies of daily life, we touch just about every aspect of each day in our familyâs life and our mood or view on life will affect those that we care for.Â If weâre uptight and on the verge of frustration our children tend to bicker more and break down into tears easier.Â

Outdoor Entertaining in Style

Tue, 26 Apr 2011 20:17:58 +0100

The weather warm up makes us all want to run outside and jump for joy!Â Being able to light the barbeque and enjoy our backyards in this glorious weather is one of the reasons we all live in the Santa Clarita Valley.
Now you do not have to hesitate about being sophisticated with outside dining.Â Gone are the fearful days of chipping dishes or breaking glasses.Â Ma Maison is happy to introduce the exquisite outdoor dining collection from Le Cadeaux.Â

It's Springtime at the Fair

Tue, 26 Apr 2011 20:16:36 +0100

The Country Antique Fair Mall will host their annual spring sale Friday, April 29 through Sunday, May 1, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Â âThe Fair,â centrally located in Santa Clarita has become one of the cityâs oldest businesses, having opened its doors in 1979. Â In fact, turning 32 this year they will celebrate their anniversary with another sale in November.Â The discounts could range from 10 to 40 percent, we have even seen them higher.

The Crafter's Connection Embarks on a New Journey

Wed, 30 Mar 2011 22:50:37 +0100

We are so excited to finally launch onÂ our new journey.Â We are planning some great events in 2011 and the first one we have to tell you about is on National Scrapbooking Day, Saturday, May 7, with Marah Johnson!Â We are holding our first event of 2011 at the beautiful Sportsmenâs Lodge in Studio City, California (approx. 30 minutes from the Santa Clarita Valley).Â

Look at these Gorgeous and Unique Paintings on Stone by Susan von Borstel

Wed, 30 Mar 2011 22:50:04 +0100

Itâs not every day that you see something like this.Â Susan von Borstelâs uniqueÂ paintings on stone have a beautiful architectural quality, whether small works on travertine, or large paintings on onyx with its stunning lines, enhanced by Susanâs creativity and talent.

Passing on Kindness

Wed, 30 Mar 2011 22:49:07 +0100

On Thursday, February 3, Rosedell Elementary School students gathered on their field to celebrate two weeks of kind acts.Â The students had been busy creating paper chains in their classrooms where each link represented a kind act that they performed.Â These acts represented kind acts at home, at school, and in the community.Â Students were encouraged by their teachers to try hard to show kindness in all that they do.Â

Fond of Your Folks Contest

Wed, 30 Mar 2011 22:48:28 +0100

Are you fond of your folks?Â Join our contest to let Santa Clarita know just how much your mother or father means to you.Â The funniest, or cutest submissions are more likely to make it in The Magazine of Santa Clarita, with the top 10 Motherâs Day submissions and the top 10 Fatherâs Day submissions published.

Your Past in Motion

Wed, 30 Mar 2011 22:47:49 +0100

Wouldnât it be nice to get the old home videos in the computer and organize them like your digital pictures?Â Making VHS, Hi8 and other video formats into playable files is one way to organize your past in motion.
Over time videos will deteriorate so it is a good idea to save them before they degrade further.Â

Who Knew in 2009

Wed, 30 Mar 2011 22:47:08 +0100

â¦weâd be business owners? â We did
â¦it would take more than two years to open our doors to customers â We certainly didnât
â¦there are so many opportunities to give the gift of chocolate â We did, and weâre dreaming up new ways to give as well as receive

Wine Meets Design at Ma Maison

Wed, 30 Mar 2011 22:45:03 +0100

Necessity is indeed the mother of invention.Â At Ma Maison we love to find clever, useful new products that serve a purpose or fill a void.Â For all the avid wine drinkers in Santa Clarita we discovered a must have item: the Govino Shatterproof Wine Glass!Â What?!?

Framing Children's Art

Wed, 30 Mar 2011 22:44:29 +0100

Hanging traditional posters and artwork on your walls is a great way to decorate your home.Â You can enhance any dÃ©cor by proudly displaying your childâs artwork.Â It provides endless possibilities for home dÃ©cor because there are many creative and fun ways to frame childrenâs artwork.Â Choosing where to hang the painting depends upon the art and its final presentation.Â The results are amazing.

Henry Mayo Holiday Home Tour League Installs 2011 Officers

Wed, 30 Mar 2011 22:43:38 +0100

A festive spirit filled the air as the Henry Mayo Newhall Memorial Hospitalâs Home Tour League installed its officers for 2011 during a luncheon at The Oaks Grille in Valencia on January 25.
The all-volunteer organization, now in its 31st year, raises funds for womenâs services at the hospital through its popular annual Home Tour, Gala and Boutique.Â

Let's Talk About Art â Did You Know? - April 2011

Wed, 30 Mar 2011 22:36:07 +0100

Our federal legislatures are âshaping the fate of the artsâ.Â House members have officially filed at least two amendments to specifically target further cuts to the arts. House Representative Scott Garrett has filed an amendment to immediately zero-out funding for both the National Endowment of the Arts and for the National Endowment for the Humanities.

Finding the Spark

Wed, 30 Mar 2011 22:32:59 +0100

I have always been a people watcherâ¦ I think most artists are.
But more importantly it has given me a keen eye for recognizing talent in people, and itâs interesting that talent is found in the most unlikely people.Â As a young student I was always the shy one that had a difficult time communicating, especially with authority figures.

A Company You Can Trust-Gold Buyer Depot

Tue, 22 Feb 2011 21:06:43 +0100

You want knowledge. You want credibility.Â You want 100 percent satisfaction.Â And when youâre dealing with your gold, silver and other precious metals to trade for cash, you want Gold Buyer Depot- the company you can trust. Â Let Gold Buyer Depot in Santa Clarita handle your cash for gold transactions.Â Why? Because they are experienced professionals.Â Gold Buyer Depot has been in the jewelry business, serving Los Angeles and Ventura counties for over 20 years.Â Their trusted associates ...

What You Knit with Matters

Tue, 22 Feb 2011 21:06:06 +0100

I may be a newcomer to knitting, but certainly not to all things handmade.Â Something my dad used to say all the time was âThe right tools for the job make the job easier.âÂ The same can be said for any craft, but it often seems that the one craft where this isnât applied to, is knitting.Â It didnât occur to me until I had lunch with a prospective knitting teacher today, in fact.Â

The Place to Be in SCV First Thursday Art Walk on Main Street is a Huge Success

Tue, 22 Feb 2011 21:05:33 +0100

Though the cold air was so brisk you could feel it to your bones, that didnât stop Santa Clarita residents from turning out in numbers for the City of Santa Claritaâs Farmers Market and First Thursday Art Walk on Thursday, February 3.Â Main Street was also filled with Gourmet Food Trucks, which also brought a large crowd with them.Â I could hear people talk about how much they loved the food as I walked up and down the promenade.âThe weekly Farmers Market and the First Thursday Art Walk ...

Letâs Talk About Art â Did You Know? - March 2011

Tue, 22 Feb 2011 21:04:50 +0100

January 19 to 23, the Los Angeles Art Show was held at the L.A. Convention Center.Â The art world returned to Los Angeles for the 16th Annual Los Angeles Art Show.Â Did you go?Â Did you know this event exists?Â If so, you would have been overwhelmed and experienced the three âEâsâ of being Excited, Enthused and Exhilarated from seeing acres of art from all over the world.Â

The Best Mother's and Father's Day Gift to Re-Remember

Tue, 22 Feb 2011 21:02:18 +0100

It is always nice to get together or catch up with mom and dad on their special day.Â It gets you thinking of your childhood a bit and the good old days of growing up.Â If you are close enough you can go out to dinner and show your parents how much they mean to you and thank them for the nurturing and advice throughout the years.Â You can get them a nice gift to let them know you are thinking about them also.

Romance, Love and Gifts Galore Santa Clarita Love Boutique

Tue, 22 Feb 2011 21:00:27 +0100

March is all about searching for gold, but this year you donât have to look too far. Santa Clarita Valley holds one of the greatest treasures you will ever find, Santa Clarita Love Boutique, the place where youâll find what you need, no matter what month it is. Are you comfortable with your wild side? Have Santa Clarita Love Boutique help you get more used to this exotic, fun world. After eight years of business here in Santa Clarita, along with 25 years of experience in the adult business, ...

I Saw the Future!

Tue, 22 Feb 2011 20:59:15 +0100

My son and his wife invited me over the other day for a couple reasons; my granddaughter had a present for me.As I made my entrance into my sonâs home, I was met by a charging granddaughter excited about showing me her latest art projects.Â She had made a series of drawings and of course I was really impressed.Â She just turned five, and is a dynamo when it comes to drawing, painting, or sculpting.Â Her father Matt, is an accomplished artist in his own right, so the apple doesnât fall far ...

New to B & R Gallery Original Paintings by June Carey and Art Show News

Tue, 22 Feb 2011 20:57:46 +0100

We have some wonderful original paintings by June Carey that are now available to B & R customers.Â Many of our customers are familiar with June Careyâs limited editions.Â Some of these original paintings have been made into prints you may recognize, andÂ there are others that you may not have seen before.

Feel Beautiful - Feel Empowered... Getting Curious with your Burning Desire

Tue, 22 Feb 2011 20:56:23 +0100

Often I am asked, âMaureen how do you help a client get comfortable taking intimate portraits?âÂ I have given much thought to the answer of this common question. Â There is not one thing I do or say but it is a process.Â It may begin several months or maybe years before my client actually picks up the phone to call for an appointment. Â The process begins with a spark of curiosity.Â Curiosity is followed by a tinge of longing to embrace herself as a whole, wonderful, and complete woman.Â ...

Pysanky Demonstration at St. Stephens

Tue, 22 Feb 2011 20:55:35 +0100

On April 3, 2010 St. Stephenâs Episcopal church will hold the fourth annual Pysanky making class from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. in Spurling Hall.Â Artists Barbara Wampole and Olga Kaczmar will be the instructors. Psyanky are Ukrainian Easter eggs using the wax and dye method.Â Mothers customarily passed on this ancient tradition to daughters a few weeks prior to Easter.Â This class is free and open to all.Â Bring a dozen or half-dozen raw, room-temperature eggs.Â The wax wonât adhere to chilled ...

Silhouette Portraits, Not a "Lost Art"

Tue, 22 Feb 2011 20:52:44 +0100

Some of you may remember at your grandmas or parentâs house, the âfamily photoâ wall that you could peruse all the generations of the family.Â I have fond memories of hearing stories told that went along with the picturesâ¦ and then there were a pair of silhouette portraits side by side that I will never forget.Â They were of my mom and her sister when they were teenagers.Â The silhouetteâs always fascinated me; the details that were captured and the accuracy of the portrayal was ast ...

The Benefit of Bigger Frames

Tue, 22 Feb 2011 20:48:53 +0100

Do you have a small print or painting that seems to get lost on a large wall in your home or office?Â Smaller prints and photos tend to be easily overwhelmed by framing designs.Â That doesnât mean they are any less important.Â However, by increasing the size of the framing they can achieve the right amount of visual impact.Â For instance, adding a wider mat with something as simple as having a decorative element cut out of the mat can effectively increase the size of your pictures while ad ...

Valentine's Gift Guide - Feb 2011

Thu, 27 Jan 2011 22:08:58 +0100

Do you need help with a gift for your loved on Valentine's Day? Well we at The Magazine of Santa Clarita made it easier for you! Take a look at our Valentine's Gift Guide!

Say it with Chocolate

Wed, 26 Jan 2011 22:49:41 +0100

PKâs Chocolates is happy to be your one-stop-shop location for Valentine treats for someone special, or to simply put a smile on somebodyâs face. Are you looking for something unique to express your love or friendship?Â We can help by customizing our handmade chocolate âCake Bitesâ with a photo, a message, or whatever idea you may have.Â If you arenât looking for a custom box of candy but want a beautiful box of chocolate âCake Bitesâ we can do that for you too.Â Take a look at ...

Creative U Studios is Here for You!

Wed, 26 Jan 2011 22:49:01 +0100

Weâre having a great time getting to know the wonderful creative folks that we have here in our valley, and even beyond.Â We have developed a space that allows our crafters to come in and create on their own, learn a new technique (or a new craft altogether!) and be a part of a true crafting community.Â Our yarn section has quadrupled in size and we are so pleased that itâs attracting the most discerning of yarn artists.Â We now carry fine yarns from such vendors as Berroco, Cascade, Feza ...

Attention Ladies

Wed, 26 Jan 2011 22:48:36 +0100

Valentineâs Day is right around the corner.Â Ladies shake things up a little this year.Â I know we get caught up in our daily grind and forget that our partners need a little extra TLC sometimes.Â If you spend sometime making your man happy, you just might get those special gifts youâve always wanted for Valentineâs day.

Robert Copple's Taste of Romance and Wildlife Collections at B & R Gallery

Wed, 26 Jan 2011 22:47:50 +0100

We are pleased to offer Robert Coppleâs Taste of Romance collection and his Romantic Wildlife art.Â Limited Edition GiclÃ©es and original paintings are available.Â Robert will even write a short personal message on the back of your canvas as a bonus for our collectors.
âThe goal in my new series Taste of Romance is to create everlasting moments in time, which will transport the viewer away from the chaos and hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Finding Some Lost Memories

Wed, 26 Jan 2011 22:47:22 +0100

You can forget a lot in a lifetime.Â Did you know you probably have at least a few forgotten memories stored in your home!Â That old camera negative you cannot decipher or videotape that you have no player for anymore probably have lost memories in them.Â By scanning in your negative strips and slides from years past you can view images you probably have not seen for decades.Â Â Your old videotape collection that you havenât been able to view can be put to a DVD or made into a file for you ...

The Time Line of Valentines

Wed, 26 Jan 2011 22:46:47 +0100

Valentineâs Day, the flower-giving, sweetheart-kissing, candy-eating holiday changed drastically over time.Â Before you claw your way through the jewelry department, it might be wise to see the changes of this romantic holiday. Leonora and Guillermo Caicedoâs bond is one sewn deeper than at just the seams.Â They met at a small ranch in Columbia in 1957.Â The rest is history and they moved to the U.S. where Guillermo became a tailor, while Leonora was finishing sewing classes.Â In their p ...

Why The ARTree? Why Now?

Wed, 26 Jan 2011 22:46:04 +0100

Iâve been asked that question dozens of times.
And the answer has another question, âWhy not?â
The Santa Clarita Valley is known as a family and business friendly community.
We have wonderful parks, walking trails, sports activities for our children, four school districts, 144,000 students, a multi-million dollar library in the process of being built, and an aquatic center that is the envy of any community.

Let's Talk About Art â Did You Know?

Wed, 26 Jan 2011 22:45:12 +0100

It is now the year 2011 and Facebook is still with us.Â Can you believe Facebook is nearly seven years old?Â The question is âWho likes Facebook and why?âÂ The answer is easy as there are millions of people using Facebook worldwide.I guess we need to know more about our friends and their lives than reading about what is happening in our world and our culture.Â The past year has given us more of Lady Gaga and Sarah Palin and now this month our new Governor Jerry Brown will need a lot of h ...

Music for the Mood

Wed, 26 Jan 2011 22:44:42 +0100

At Ma Maison we always strive to bring eclectic international music to our store to enhance the ambience and transport our customers into a relaxing atmosphere.Â Most of us recognize the importance music plays in our mood, motivation, feelings, etc.: but in this day and age, there has been an ongoing decline in traditional record store sales and we find our best sources for music to be Shazam, U tube, Facebook and Starbucks.Â But Ma Maison has found the answer!

Feel Beautiful â Feel Empowered... With Your Unique Beauty

Wed, 26 Jan 2011 22:43:54 +0100

âOnly two percent of women around the world think of themselves as beautiful.ââFour out of five women are dissatisfied with their image.âToo often women, starting from their early years, are bombarded with social, cultural misconceptions and skewed âphotoshoppedâ images that lead to a personal flawed perception which define our definition of beauty.Women feel good about themselves when they respect, appreciate and accept their bodies.Â Our bodies are: what sustain life, carry and pa ...

A Valentine's Day Gift Sweeter than Chocolate

Wed, 26 Jan 2011 22:42:25 +0100

How often do you remember the gift you have given, or received, on Valentineâs Day?Â A box of assorted chocolates, a variety of flowers, or a group of heart shaped Mylar balloons may be your best memory of past Valentineâs Day gift giving.
If you are looking for something a little different this year, something that will have an impact on your loved oneâs memory, consider having something custom framed.Â

Let's Talk About Art â Did You Know? - Jan 2011

Mon, 27 Dec 2010 21:19:17 +0100

The season is here and quickly gone are the days we spent with family and sharing stories about our lives and experiences.Â Spending time with our loved ones, we talk about everything, travels we have had and people we met and the new experiences we all had.Â Of course, history of our past is discussed as well as money and business problems.Â Our family loved to talk at meals, on trips, sitting around the pool on weekends, in the living room after dinner, we were never silent.Â

Valentine'sâ¦ A Perfect Time to Get Engaged

Mon, 27 Dec 2010 21:18:39 +0100

Keep in mind as you plan your proposal that this will be one of the most significant moments in both your lives.Â Make it a day she will remember and cherish forever.Â The most memorable proposals rarely cost a lot of money, they are just well planned and thought out.Â Most women dream of this day, so use your imagination to surprise her.Â With all that love in the air, this romantic holiday could set the right mood for your special occasion.

Making Your Special Event Sound Amazing

Mon, 27 Dec 2010 21:18:05 +0100

Sound system needs can be challenging and intimidating for anyone planning an event. So make the task a lot easier by asking the professionals at SoundCo.SoundCo Systems is a Santa Clarita-based sound and stage company run by Adam Kury, a professional musician and sound engineer. âMaking performances sound great is something that just came natural to me,â states Adam. âI was always the one who could fix the instruments and make the amps and PA sound better in all the bands I played in whil ...

What Can I Do With My Old Photos, Negatives and Videos?

Mon, 27 Dec 2010 21:17:02 +0100

Digital cameras have changed the way we look at our memories.Â You can go to iPhoto or any digital photo program and pull up photos and video in a flash. Your past is at your fingertips.Â But before you purchased that first digital camera you had film cameras and with that technology came a bunch of photos and negatives, probably sitting in boxes.Â

Figure Artist Julie Snyder to Demo in SCV

Mon, 27 Dec 2010 21:16:30 +0100

Award-winning artist in figurative art, Julie Snyder, will demonstrate on January 17, 2011, 6:30 p.m., at the Santa Clarita Artistsâ Association (SCAA) monthly meeting, according to Lisa Barr, program coordinator.A native of Scotland, artist Snyder studied drawing and painting at the Glasgow School of Art.Â Snyderâs career spanned both sides of the Atlantic and included several years in Spain.Â She forged her craft as an illustrator in advertising, publishing and the motion picture industr ...

Ukrainian Easter Egg Classes

Mon, 27 Dec 2010 21:15:28 +0100

On January 30, we will begin a series of classes in Ukrainian Easter Egg dying at Golden Oak Adult School.Â There will be four sessions held on Sunday afternoons beginning January 30, and running through February 20.Â

Big Exciting News!

Mon, 27 Dec 2010 21:14:43 +0100

We have really big news and are so happy to finally share it with you!We have decided to take our company in a new and exciting direction starting in 2011.Â We have truly loved being here for you as a retail store, but over the past year or so we have felt our passion for arts and crafts moving in another direction.Â So much of our time has been spent on the business aspects of operating a retail store, not leaving us as much time as we would like to pursue our true passion â creating.Â We ...

Weddings, Parties and Chocolate, Oh My!

Mon, 27 Dec 2010 21:13:44 +0100

Happy 2011!Â We made it through 2010 with a few bumps in the road, but now we can turn our attention to 2011, which will bring exciting adventures and many celebrations.Are you planning on proposing this year to your sweetheart?Â Is there a wedding in the works and you want something different but fabulous as guest favors?Â Do you know someone whoâs planning an anniversary party and a tray of Cake Bites would add to the celebration?Â Let us show you how PKâs Chocolatesâ Cake Bites will ...

Feel Beautiful - Feel Empowered... Dancing with Your Soul and Getting Real

Mon, 27 Dec 2010 21:11:49 +0100

Although dancing naked in front of the camera is not an everyday occurrence for most women, when experienced it is a powerful vehicle for transformation.
I have been around long enough to know that women in general love to dance and a desire for dance in their lives is a huge longing.
So what does it take for a full figured mature and level-headed woman to perform such a courageous act?Â

The Magazine of Santa Clarita Photo Contest Congratulations to Mia Zumsteg, Our January Winner!

Mon, 27 Dec 2010 21:09:50 +0100

Thank you Santa Clarita for sending in your photography.Â We are thrilled every time we receive an email with a photo submission.Â This monthâs winner Mia Zumsteg is a wonderfully talented photographer in Santa Clarita whose photography continues to catch my breathe every time I see it.Â Her submissions this month celebrate the winter season and something we donât see often in Santa Clarita... Snow!

Valentine's Day Gift Giving Ideas

Mon, 27 Dec 2010 20:44:34 +0100

As February approaches, itâs time to put on your thinking cap and come up with a Valentineâs Day gift for your loved one.Â What will you get this year; a bouquet of flowers, a box of chocolate or maybe some helium balloons?Â If these ideas arenât inspiring, consider the gift of custom framing.Â There are plenty of items that you can have framed to make original gifts that are sure to put on a smile on the face of your special someone.

Looking Forward to 2011

Mon, 27 Dec 2010 20:43:53 +0100

As another year folds closed it is time to look forward into 2011 and greet the New Year.Â We at Ma Maison want to take this opportunity to thank all of your loyal customers and the City of Santa Clarita for continuing to support our little boutique and we wish everyone and their familiesâ prosperity and health for 2011.

The Secret of Matte Painting in Movies Peter Ellenshaw â a Disney Legend

Mon, 27 Dec 2010 20:42:59 +0100

Some famous films have been created using matte paintings.Â Matte painting is the technique of creating part or all of a landscape or scene using a very realistic painting on a glass sheet that is then filmed along with the actors and any âreal worldâ parts of the set that exist, to create the illusion of a place or objects being in the actual film.

For Your Protection

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 01:23:13 +0100

With the holidays coming up, many of us will be gathering with our friends and family.Â Although we cannot cover all of the safety issues that can affect us during the holidays, we would like to remind our customers that there are some simple safety measures everyone should take.
Firearms should be locked away in an approved safe or be cable locked and placed away from prying eyes and little hands.Â It is also a good idea to store ammunition separately from firearms.Â

Sky Blue Radiance

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 01:22:49 +0100

Blue Topaz is a beautiful birthstone designated for the month of December.Â Topaz is a fluorine aluminum silicate and comes in a rainbow of colors from blue, green, yellow, brown, pink, and sometimes colorless.Â Yellow Topaz is the alternate birthstone for November.
Blue Topaz comes in three different shades.Â London blue, which is a deeper turquoise blue, the Swiss blue, which is a rich light blue and the Sky blue that is a pale powder blue.

Holiday Shopping

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 01:22:22 +0100

Holiday shopping days go into full swing this month.Â Before you know it, the malls will be filled with busy shoppers racing from store to store trying to check off their holiday gift list one by one.Â Many people get hung up on that one relative or friend who may be particularly hard to shop for, or who deserves something out of the ordinary.Â You probably have someone on your list just like that.

The Magazine of Santa Clarita Photo Contest Congratulations to All of Our Photography Entries

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 01:21:47 +0100

Thank you Santa Clarita for sending in your photography.Â We are thrilled every time we receive an email with a photo submission.Â This monthâs winner Sandy LehmannÂ promptly sent her entry in, a photo of her horse Valentine.
We were so happy with the support of this awesome city we chose to print all the entries received.Â

The Senior Prom

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 01:11:10 +0100

âIt was an enchanted evening!â
âI missed my prom in 1936 because I had joined the Army.â
âItâs aÂ dream come true!â
These wereÂ statements from SCV seniors who attended The Senior Prom, sponsored by the Fil-Am Association of SCV held at the Our Lady of Perpetual Help Catholic Church on Sunday, November 14.

Holiday Table Decorating Tips

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 01:08:10 +0100

Weâve been dreaming of a White Christmas...but we probably wonât get one here in the Santa Clarita Valley. Itâs more likely to be sunny and hot with the unpredictable weather, lately. Yet donât fret Bing Crosby fans, family and friends are what the Holiday Season is all about, whether or not it snows.

Letâs Talk About Art â Did You Know? - Dec 2010

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 01:07:32 +0100

Wherever you go you are surrounded by advertisingâ¦ on the bus, in the stores, on television, radio and billboards along the streets or large signs, âVote For Meâ of people wanting your vote in elections.
So what is the connection between art and advertising?Â It is the creator.Â Advertising is the keen observer of society.Â Advertising has had a long, vivid history and what we see of it today is the outgrowth of the Victorian age.Â

Art of the Season

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 00:17:55 +0100

There are some beautiful Christmas-themed limited edition and original works of art available, each with its own unique style, and all of them prized by collectors.Â Collectible art is a wonderful gift, and can be the start of a family tradition.Some notable artists: Dean Morrissey will delight the young and the young at heart with his Father Christmas series of limited edition prints, and his fanciful Redd Rocket wagon. Deanâs beautifully illustrated books have won awards and brought joy to ...

Life is a Box of Chocolates

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 00:17:22 +0100

Itâs late in the evening and the bright laptop screen glows blankly back in anticipation of something clever or simply something at all.Â What do we write, after all this is our very first with The Magazine of Santa Clarita writing editorial?Â What continues to come to mind, over and over again is, âwhy?âÂ Oh, not why write the editorial, but why begin a chocolate business? Â In reply, we ask, âWhy not?â

Swarovski Opens In Valencia

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 00:16:40 +0100

We are excited to have opened our doors in the Patios at the Valencia Town Center Mall. Weâve heard so many great comments from residents already about how happy they are that they donât have to drive to our Glendale, Northridge, and Topanga locations. We look forward to serving the Santa Clarita community.

Warm Winter Wishes

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 00:14:32 +0100

In sunny Santa Clarita it is hard to think about Christmas time being a cold season, but low and behold we will have some chilly weather; whether or not it is before Christmas remains to be seen.Â But in preparation for those unforeseen cold nights Ma Maison has always designed and manufactured the most luxurious and comfy faux fur throws.Â

Feel Beautiful - Feel Empowered...Good Morning Beautiful

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 00:08:46 +0100

The life lessons my sweet dog, Visa taught me.Â I no longer worry about my dog dying, in fact I donât worry about anyone I love dying.Â What my sweet dog Visa taught me was that if I am to worry; I should worry about: did I say good morning beautiful, did I give her a hug, did I celebrate and find joy with her in the moment, did I give her a treat, did I take but a moment to throw her the ball and did I tell her how much I love her, each day, everyday.Â Visa also taught me that miracles do ...

Holiday Gift Guide - Nov 2010

Fri, 29 Oct 2010 19:26:35 +0100

In November we do a Holiday Gift Guide Check it out here

Baking With Love

Tue, 26 Oct 2010 19:02:56 +0100

Nanci Olmos, owner and operator of Clariceâs Cake & Candy Supplies, is a lovely woman who always has a smile for her customers and is ready to answer any questions you might have. Having been in business for 23 years this past June, Nanci states, âI am proud to have been given the opportunity to carry on Clariceâs name. She is a great lady who recently turned 90 and I am honored that she allowed me to carry on her tradition.â

Beads, Beads and More Beads

Tue, 26 Oct 2010 19:01:46 +0100

The holiday season is here, and thereâs no better time than now to get a jump start on finding the perfect gift for your loved ones.Â Â Make your gift extra special by creating a one of a kind present, a masterpiece made by you.Â At Bead & Gift Company, you will find everything you need. Â âI became interested in beading about ten years ago as a way to express myself artistically,â says Allana Riesenberger, owner of the Bead & Gift Company. âSelecting colors and shapes and stringing be ...

Your Holiday Wish List

Tue, 26 Oct 2010 18:59:07 +0100

Holiday gift giving ranges from the necessities in life to the completely outrageous.Â Youâve probably received everything from socks to the infamous fruitcake.Â Sometimes you may get asked if there is something special you would like to have (aside from some occasional peace and quiet).Â Itâs probably easy to rattle off a number of everyday things you may normally get for yourself, but what about something special, something you would think of for a friend or loved one, but not necessari ...

The Magazine of Santa Clarita Photo Contest

Tue, 26 Oct 2010 18:58:29 +0100

Congratulations to Sharon Ventrice and Mia Zumsteg!
We had such a hard time deciding on the October winner we decided to feature two photos.Â Thank you to Sharon Ventrice of Valencia for submitting her adorable grandson Connor in a pumpkin patch and Mia Zumsteg for her beautiful fall photos.Â

Zonta Club of SCV

Tue, 26 Oct 2010 18:57:29 +0100

Celebrity Tribute, Zontaâs largest fundraiser of the year, will honor Wayne Crawford on Friday, November 5, 2010, at the Odyssey Restaurant in Granada Hills.Â Call the Zonta line 661-252-9351 for event reservations and enjoy the Celebrity Tribute evening of fun!
LifeForward monthly scheduled workshops begin at 9:30 a.m. and conclude at 1 p.m., offer âEasy, Delicious, Cheap & Nutritious Mealsâ to be presented on November 6, 2010; speakers will be a chef and nutritionist.Â

Mothers' Rings: A Precious Gift for a Precious Person

Tue, 26 Oct 2010 18:57:04 +0100

The holidays are a special time to honor our mothers.Â What a perfect time to show our love and appreciation to such a divine individual.Â Many mothers are gentle, loving, patient, kind and these are just a few wonderful qualities they possess.Â They give so much of themselves, usually wanting little or nothing in return.
Why not treat your mom to a beautiful mothers ring?Â A personal gift she can treasure forever.Â

The Journey of a Lifetime

Tue, 26 Oct 2010 18:55:17 +0100

When journalist and animal welfare advocate Michelle Sathe turns 40, she bypasses a midlife crisis for a cross-country journey.Â But this isnât just any road trip.Â Along for the ride is Loren, a rescued pit bull whom Michelle fell in love with while volunteering at The Brittany Foundation dog rescue in Agua Dulce.

Time to Get Outdoors

Tue, 26 Oct 2010 18:54:07 +0100

Many of us like to keep active outdoors.Â For those who enjoy day hikes or the occasional trial ride on any of the great trails around Santa Clarita, or for that matter any trail, this article is for you.
Fortunately, most of us never have had any trouble during our outings; however, occasionally a hiker goes missing and even dies on what most would consider an easy day hike.Â

Giving a "Lifetime" Gift

Tue, 26 Oct 2010 18:53:25 +0100

Wouldnât it be wonderful to give someone a gift that they can enjoy for years to come?Â Ma Maison has the perfect solution for this gift giving holiday season: Home DÃ©cor Oil Candlesâ¦What you say?Â These âLifetime Candlesâ are gorgeous glass containers filled with natural elements and candle oil.Â The jars will retain their original design while serving the purpose of an odorless, clean burning and non allergenic candle.Â

Bare Your Nakedness and Reconnect To Your Soul

Tue, 26 Oct 2010 18:52:27 +0100

Scripture Inspired Art

Tue, 26 Oct 2010 18:51:38 +0100

Although Rafael is known for his breath-taking airbrush work on motorcycles, trucks, watercraft, and aircraft, his original artwork is fairly unknown to the general public. Rafael creates beautiful âscripture-inspiredâ paintings on stainless steel and likens the work to modern day stained glass art.Even though the paintings consist of urethane paint on steel and not glass, there are similarities. Rafaelâs style using lines that hold the composition together are much like the metal that hol ...

The "Art of Concealment" â Hidden Images in Art Live Judy Larson Art Show ...

Tue, 26 Oct 2010 18:50:38 +0100

Santa Clarita Valley residents and visitors will get the chance to meet talented artist Judy Larson in person and view a display of her amazing works of art.
Judy is famous for her Art of Concealment, with hidden images in her work, which can be seen with a closer look, and the amazing detail of the work she does using her scratchboard technique, which is a combination of painting and etching.

Classic Design in Valencia

Tue, 26 Oct 2010 18:50:04 +0100

We at Classic Designs Jewelry are most fortunate in having customers who have been with us from the beginning, celebrating all of lifeâs happy moments, career successes and educational achievements.Â Now we are privileged to serve their children â and so the tradition continues.
Our business thrives and grows by virtue of customer referral; members of Classic Designs family are our best advertising.Â Their words of support and kindness have sustained us through the years.Â

Banana Bread History

Tue, 26 Oct 2010 18:48:50 +0100

Three things to consider: Bread, quick breads (no yeast) and bananas.Â The first breads probably originate from Neolithic times, some 12,000 years ago.Â This was a very primitive bread probably made from stone crushed grain mixed with water and cooked on hot stones and covered with hot ashes.Â The Egyptians probably discovered around 4,000 B.C. that wheat dough ferments (think sourdough), thus forming gases, producing a lighter more pleasant eating and tasting loaf.The Banana originated in So ...

The Magazine of Santa Clarita Photo Contest October Celebrates Halloween and the new Autumn Season

Mon, 27 Sep 2010 19:23:46 +0100

Think youâve got an inspiring picture in your photo album or in jpg-format on your computer desktop?Â Is it so amazingly cool that youâd like to see it published for all of the Santa Clarita Valley to admire and adore?Â

Theyâve Got Your Six!

Mon, 27 Sep 2010 19:23:09 +0100

Cobra Tactical, Inc. was founded in 2003 by former Grunt Sergeant Eric Larson, who served in the United States Marine Corps.Â Because many of his friendsÂ are military,Â law enforcement, and fire/rescue, Eric decided to start his business in the SCV.
As aÂ USMCÂ rifle and pistol expert, Ericâs own extensive training and knowledge in tactical shooting, along with his professional, courteous and knowledgeable staff,Â has greatly helped all his customers.Â

Art Does Healing Work at Healthcare Facilities

Mon, 27 Sep 2010 19:22:23 +0100

The 21st annual Art Classic will be held on Sunday, October 17, from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. at Hart Hall at Hart Park in Newhall. Â A free Public Viewing will be on Saturday, October 16 at 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.Â For ticket information, please visit www.santaclaritaartists.org. âThis fundraiser supports a lot of worthy causes,â says Olga Kaczmar, president. âSanta Clarita Artistsâ Association (SCAA) makes fine art available to healthcare facilities to provide a pleasant distraction to those who are ...

Shadowbox Framing

Mon, 27 Sep 2010 19:21:58 +0100

Souvenirs from a fun vacation, mementos of a special celebration, a collection of favorite objectsâ¦ all of these things and any other combinations your imagination can think of, can be displayed in a custom shadowbox.Â Shadowbox frames are different from other frames in that they are deep enough to house not just flat items, like a photograph or print, but three-dimensional objects as well.Â These objects can be adhered or placed on a shelf built inside the frame.

Learning From a Master Hosted by Ma Maison

Mon, 27 Sep 2010 19:20:33 +0100

We all have those beautiful photographs of special memories that need just the right frame to show them off.Â At Ma Maison we feature many different styles of frames, but one particular collection is close to our heart and the communities as well.Â Norma Rapko, a local resident, has been designing custom one-of-a-kind frames for our store and many across the country for years.Â Her style is unique in that she selects vintage pieces, metal flowers, crystals, crosses & crowns, burlap and or any ...

Manifest Art Studio Taking Your Toys to a New Level

Mon, 27 Sep 2010 19:19:18 +0100

Taking your favorite items to a new level!Â Maybe you are into your toys: boats, autos, trucks, motorcycles or perhaps take huge pride in your home and its contents.Â Whatever you enjoy having the best of, Rafael Ramirez can take it to the next level.Â This custom airbrush artist has well over 24 years of artistic experience.Â Rafael Ramirez has established himself as a premiere airbrush artist in the Southern California area.Â Trained formally in traditional painting, Rafael has focused th ...

Gawad Kalinga "Up Close and Personal" Fundraiser a Success!

Mon, 27 Sep 2010 19:18:47 +0100

A successful dinner-show fundraiser was held on August 29, 2010 at the beautiful home of Mr. and Mrs. Tony Pascua in Westridge, Valencia.Â The couple was featured in the April/May edition of theÂ Ã©lite Magazine, explaining their advocacy for âGawad Kalingaâ project, which translated in English means to âto give care.âÂ

A Santa Clarita Treasure Award-Winning Artist Morgan WeistlingâExclusive SCV Event

Mon, 27 Sep 2010 19:16:45 +0100

If youâve ever been to the Autry Museum of Western Heritage, you may have seen the art of Santa Clarita resident, Morgan Weistling.Â Morgan received the Patronâs Choice Award for 2010, and has also won the prestigious Prix de West Award from the National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum.Â His beautiful paintings and limited edition prints are prized by collectors world-wide.

Getting a Great Fitting Bra

Mon, 23 Aug 2010 20:51:05 +0100

Does the back of your bra ride up? Â Does the front go south? Â When you pull your bra straps up, does a little part of you peek out of the bottom or the top?Â Â These are things that just make us crazy, a bad fitting bra. Â All women have muscles in our chest that stretch and create breast sagging as the years go by and the last thing you want isÂ breast sagging. Â In fact, a proper fitting bra will help to delay the stretching of those muscles and skin. This will give you a much younger lookin ...

Artists and Crafters Invited to Participate in Holiday Boutique

Mon, 23 Aug 2010 20:49:29 +0100

Temps may still be in the three-digit range, but Henry Mayo Newhall Memorial Hospitalâs Home Tour League is busy making preparations for their 2010 Holiday Boutique and is inviting crafters to participate.
The Holiday Boutique will be held Saturday, December 4 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church Assembly Hall in Newhall.

September is River Rally Time in Santa Clarita

Mon, 23 Aug 2010 20:47:38 +0100

The Santa Clara River is a part of the City of Santa Clarita in more ways than one.Â While providing a home to many species of plants and animals, the river also annually brings together thousands of volunteers who dedicate their time to ridding it of trash and debris.Â 2010 marks the 16th year of the Cityâs River Rally Clean-up and Environmental Expo.

Protecting Your Art Investment

Mon, 23 Aug 2010 20:44:34 +0100

If you bought an early Bev Doolittle print for $95, which is now worth $7,000, or own other art treasures, or if you are just adding your first piece to your collection, knowing how to protect your art investment is very good information to have.
A one of a kind art purchase is irreplaceable, however there are some steps you can take to help prevent damage of your art treasures, and there are ways to protect your financial investment in case damage or loss does occur.

Give Old Frame Designs New Life

Mon, 23 Aug 2010 20:42:06 +0100

Are you thinking of redecorating or refurbishing rooms in your home?Â Have you found treasures in your attic or basement or at a flea market that you would like to display but look too old or worn?Â Give your old frame designs new life.Â You can redesign and reframe your artwork to fit with your new decor.Â Matting and framing go hand-in-hand to create a fresh, new look.Â A plain mat and frame can be transformed into a beautiful display piece for any home or office.Â

Personalization Is the Way to Go

Mon, 23 Aug 2010 20:39:02 +0100

All of us have encountered the hurdle of finding just the right something for someone, but at Ma Maison that is our specialty.Â Not only can we help you find something distinctive and appropriateâbut we offer many options of personalizing a gift so that it is uniquely fitting, such as:

Supporting Those in Need Itâs as Simple as Looking Under the Sink

Mon, 23 Aug 2010 20:34:48 +0100

Life is a gift, and it offers us the privilege, opportunity and responsibility to give something back by becoming more. Anthony RobbinsItâs just that simple to give.Â An interoffice email was sent out to our staff at The Magazine of Santa Clarita requesting items to donate for the Santa Clarita Valley Food Pantry.Â Little did we know that by the weekâs end, we had four bins of donated items to give.Â It was as simple as that, yet it meant much more to those in need. Â Did you know that Lo ...

SISCV Installs 2010-2011 Board of Directors

Tue, 27 Jul 2010 18:11:11 +0100

Soroptimist International of Santa Clarita Valley held its new officer installation on June 30 at the beautiful home of Bob and Soroptimist member, Diane Benjamin, in Sand Canyon.Â More than 50 guests including club members, Soroptimist guests and local dignitaries witnessed the swearing in of the clubâs new Board of Directors.

Hidden Images in Art

Tue, 27 Jul 2010 18:10:24 +0100

As beautiful as art can be, sometimes there is more to see than first meets the eye.Â Some artists are known for hiding images within their paintings, or the art of camouflage.Â Vincent Van Gogh is said to have hidden images within his works, but there is some controversy about whether those images were placed intentionally by the artist, or whether they are created in the imagination of the viewer.Â However, present day artists can verify that they have placed hidden images within their pain ...

Vintage Scrapbooking

Tue, 27 Jul 2010 18:09:29 +0100

Everywhere you go, you canât help but notice that vintage is âin.â From the gorgeous dress forms to wire birdcages, the beautiful flowers and torn edges, vintage has take the scrapbooking world by storm this year. Vintage scrapbooking looks intimidating at first: lots of layers and distressing; many scrapbookers have been asking, âHow do I get this effect?â as they pour over some of the distressed sample layouts.Â If you are wanting a âvintageâ look on your pages, here are some te ...

Frame Your Vacation Memories

Tue, 27 Jul 2010 18:08:16 +0100

Imagine your fondest memories hanging in the den or living room for you to enjoy every day.Â Souvenirs and mementos from a fun vacation can be displayed in a beautiful shadowbox.
Vacation memories can be prominently displayed in your home instead of packed away in a closet or attic.Â

Calling all Crafty Divas!

Tue, 27 Jul 2010 18:07:53 +0100

We at Ma Maison love to support our community and especially all the talented local artisans.Â Since we design and manufacture some of our own products; including baby items, faux fur throws, pillows, purses and much more, we have a true appreciation for the handcrafted and welcome it in our store.Â

Why Not Have Some Fun?

Mon, 28 Jun 2010 20:25:07 +0100

You know, these days it is important to have a good time, just like when we were young and carefree.Â Whether we went biking with friends, visiting Mammoth Lakes, or traveling to far off destinations like Europe, we had fun.Â With theÂ current economicÂ news hitting us in the faceÂ daily you sometimes wonder when things will improve.Â

Assistance LeagueÂ® New Board of Directors Installed

Mon, 28 Jun 2010 20:24:04 +0100

On June 2, at the Annual Meeting, members of Assistance League Santa Clarita welcomed in the board of Directors for the 2010â2011 year.Â

The Benefits of Breastfeeding

Mon, 28 Jun 2010 20:23:36 +0100

As a mother, you want to make informed decisions about the health of your baby and yourself, one of which could be whether or not to breastfeed.Â Science has found that there may be some long lasting benefits to breastfeeding and it may be more than a lifestyle choice.Â It has now been proven that any amount of time that you can nurse could help both you and your baby, such as:

Tres Chic: Make a Quick and Simple Layout Beautiful

Mon, 28 Jun 2010 20:22:52 +0100

Often times, we have piles of photos just stacking up waiting to be scrapbooked and we wonder how we will get through them all.Â Additionally, we want beautiful pages inside our books.Â Using simple colors, such as black and white, combined with a great accent color, such as red, gives great dramatic color effect.Â Also, using clean lines and large graphical embellishments, allows the eye to feel like there is a lot of design going on while allowing you to complete the page fairly rapidly.Â ...

Let's Talk About Art â Did You Know? July 2010

Mon, 28 Jun 2010 20:22:08 +0100

The increasing decline in the dollars needed today for schools to support the teachers and the curriculum to be taught is ever present in the news, radio and television.Â In this process of school budgets being cut, the understanding and appreciation of the arts seem to get less attention and importance in the whole education of students.Â We must treat the arts as basics, as the arts are central to nourishing human values, they help us to understand who we are: they replenish our reservoirs o ...

Conservation Framing

Mon, 28 Jun 2010 20:21:30 +0100

Conservation Framing, sometimes called Preservation Framing, refers to the materials and techniques used to frame valued art and objects to the highest standard.Â From matboards to glass to the paper cover on the back of the frame, todayâs framers can provide a variety of specialized products and methods to display art and objects in the best possible environment.

Wedding Gift Ideas

Fri, 21 May 2010 23:00:27 +0100

Today, weddings are held throughout the calendar year, although the summer months still seem to dominate as the top choice for the event.Â Gift giving does seem to vary depending on what the couple has listed on their registry list.Â Couples that are just starting out seem to need everything, while others may simply request a donation to a favorite charity.Â

Creativityâ¦ Inspired!

Fri, 21 May 2010 22:59:05 +0100

Nationally known artist, Donna Downey, has a Campaign for Creativity going on and she is encouraging all of us to look at the world through different eyes.Â Many of you may be quilters, scrapbookers or altered artists.Â Others of you may like the things you see but have sworn, âIâm just not that creative!â

Westfield Valencia Town Center Enhances and Expands WFamily Program

Fri, 21 May 2010 22:53:55 +0100

Westfield Valencia Town Center announced new additions for the second year of the highly successful WFamily program, the free membership program that enhances the family shopping experience by connecting itâs members with family friendly events, money-saving promotions, and special amenities offered exclusively at Westfield Shopping Centers.Â The new WFamily program elements include an event series with partner Radio Disney on âWestfield Family Fridays,â the second Friday of every month; ...

Letâs Talk About Art âDid You Know? Art Teaches Nothing Except the Significance of Life

Fri, 21 May 2010 22:50:42 +0100

A Rationale For The Arts In Education
Many educators, as well as persons directly concerned with the arts, share the conviction that the arts are a means for expressing and interpreting human behavior and experience. Â It follows, therefore, that the education of children is incomplete if the arts are not part of the daily teaching and learning process.

Award Winning Art on Display

Fri, 21 May 2010 22:46:10 +0100

B&R Gallery Framing, the place that puts your digital and antique photos on canvas and makes them into a work of art, featured lots of talent on Saturday, May 8.Â So much talent was there that Dave and Barbara Joseph, co-owners of B&R Gallery, have decided to leave up the âArt Show Displayâ until the end of June.

Beautiful & Easy Grunge Paper Bracelet

Wed, 28 Apr 2010 13:41:14 +0100

One of the most fun things about scrapbooking is all of the embellishments that you can create. It’s fun when someone thinks outside the box and creates something we can use both on and off the page. Erin Bassett, a Design Team Member at Remember When Scrapbooking created this great little bracelet.

Mothers - Oh How Precious

Wed, 28 Apr 2010 13:40:37 +0100

Motherâs Day is a special time to honor our wonderful mothers.Â Mothers possess many endearing qualities and thatâs what makes them such unique individuals.Â Mothers give so much of their selves and usually expect so little in return.Â With their tender, caring ways, their love is like no other.

It's Mother's Day at the Fair

Wed, 28 Apr 2010 13:40:05 +0100

The Country Antique Fair Mall will host their annual spring sale Friday, May 7 thru Sunday, May 9 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. “The Fair,” centrally located in Santa Clarita has become one of the city’s oldest businesses, having opened its doors in 1979. In fact, turning 31 this year, they will celebrate their anniversary with another sale in November.

Let's Talk About Art Ã¢â¬â Did You Know? May 2010

Wed, 28 Apr 2010 13:39:25 +0100

The arts support learning across the curriculum. A classroom that celebrates the arts is a safe and joyful learning environment. When teachers combine the arts with other subjects, they create exciting and vivid learning experiences, which enhance learning across many subject areas. For Example: Acting out a favorite story, describing a painting or performing a puppet show can support reading and writing skills.

CrossValley Connector Art Show Donation

Wed, 28 Apr 2010 13:38:12 +0100

“Shirley Checkos, award-winning wildlife artist, donated a framed painting titled Proud Eagle valued at $500 that was used as a prize for the passports created for the celebration at Centre Pointe Village Grand Opening Celebration party on March 26 and 27.

Small Town, Small Business Gets National Recognition

Wed, 28 Apr 2010 13:37:10 +0100

Every year in our industry a national publication, Home Accents Today, publishes their selection of the top 50 retailers in America. And each year I read about these stores across our country that inspire us to be our best, keep abreast of trends and continually re-invent ourselves. This year I will get the honor of reading about ourselves!

B & R Gallery and Custom Framing Puts Your Digital Photos on Canvas

Wed, 28 Apr 2010 13:36:41 +0100

If you have some family photos that you would like to preserve and have printed on canvas or some photos of trips you have taken or beautiful scenery you would like “made into a painting,” B & R Gallery and Custom Framing is here in Canyon Country one mile north of Soledad Canyon Road, to do just that.

AAUW Mission Advancing Equity for Women and Girls through Advocacy, Education, and Research.

Wed, 28 Apr 2010 13:35:52 +0100

American Association of University Women (AAUW) Santa Clarita Branch recently celebrated International Women’s Month by presenting a special event at Marie Callender’s. The program, titled “International Women Humanitarians from Nicaragua to Nepal,” featured two dynamic women speakers.

Reflect Your Personal Style

Wed, 28 Apr 2010 13:34:41 +0100

Want to make a small room look bigger? Have an odd-shaped space on your wall you’d like to fill? Need a focal point for your dining room or the finishing touch for your foyer? Consider a custom framed mirror. Mirrors can be attractively displayed anywhere in the home—an entry hall, dining room, dressing area, powder room, or over a mantel.

Exceptional Dining for a Great Cause

Tue, 30 Mar 2010 14:33:02 +0100

The College of the Canyons Foundation will present the inaugural Super Wine Tasting Dinner on Thursday, May 13 at the Salt Creek Grille in Valencia. This unique, superior event is notably different from traditional wine tastings. Featured are wines from eight wineries, with emphasis on the comparisons of selected wines in several categories:

Let's Talk About Art Ã¢â¬âDid You Know? - April 2010

Tue, 30 Mar 2010 14:32:08 +0100

Oh, my goodness! A group of people are working to organize a Community Arts Center. How did this happen? The vision of creating a Community Arts Center came into focus through many meetings with artists, community leaders, and educators in a “Think Tank” environment with the question, “How can we effectively introduce the visual arts into Santa Clarita Valley?” It was decided through families, and to provide a place where families can take their ch ...

Scrapbooking off the Page: Photo Tray

Tue, 30 Mar 2010 14:29:59 +0100

Beyond preserving your family’s memories for the generations to come, there is a fun, artsy side to scrapbooking inside you that is making cards, altered art or other off-the-page projects. I designed this photo tray to commemorate my trip to Ireland and England that can hang in my home or be given to my hosts as a great gift item. This project is suitable for beginners and those of you who have been crafting for years.

Dazzling Diamonds

Tue, 30 Mar 2010 14:29:18 +0100

A diamond is one of the most exquisite gems you’ll ever lay your eyes on. Its breathtaking display of color and beauty can mesmerize you. Diamonds are a girl’s best friend and definitely in a league of their own.
Over the centuries the diamond acquired its unique status as the ultimate gift of love. Since the beginning of time, diamonds have always been associated with romance and legend.

Zonta Club of Santa Clarita Valley

Tue, 30 Mar 2010 14:26:12 +0100

Improving the Lives of Women through Service, Advocacy and Awareness

Zonta’s 5th Annual Golf Tournament is set for a great, fun day of golf participation. Shotgun Start is at 10 a.m., Monday, May 17, 2020 at Robinson Ranch; Tournament Sponsor - The Berger Group and Bob Kellar - Honorary Chair. Player sponsorships for four are still available, as well as Individual Player spots.

Figure Drawing Demo at SCAA

Tue, 30 Mar 2010 14:25:15 +0100

The March 15, 2010 meeting of the Santa Clarita Artists’ Association (SCAA) will feature contemporary realist and portrait artist, Aaron Westerberg. He will be showing his figurative drawing and painting techniques at 7 p.m. Westerberg was born in San Diego and raised in the rural, mountainous Ramona, one of San Diego County’s oldest communities. As a child he was inspired by the area’s picturesque surroundings, which included intriguing boulder formations. ...

Debutantes in the SCV

Tue, 30 Mar 2010 14:20:54 +0100

What exactly is a Debutante? This was a question often asked of the 2010 Henry Mayo Newhall Memorial Hospital Silver Rose Debutantes. Traditionally, being a debutante means that a young lady has come of age to be married. She is presented to society in a ball that would be filled with eligible young bachelors she could possible marry. In the United States, debutante balls are infamous in the south, where “southern belles,” members of upper class society, are p ...

Mother's Day and Father's Day Gift Ideas

Tue, 30 Mar 2010 14:19:54 +0100

Custom framing is a special gift because it’s personal. That’s what makes it perfect for both Mother’s Day and Father’s Day. When you give mom or dad a gift that’s custom framed, they’ll know that it’s one-of-a-kind and made just for him or her.
The framing ideas are almost endless.

The Importance of Swaddling

Tue, 30 Mar 2010 14:17:27 +0100

What is swaddling? It is the age-old method of snugly wrapping your baby in a blanket for warmth and security. In the past few years many studies have been completed on swaddling and the impact on babies’ health. Many experts agree swaddling is vital for many reasons:

Is Art a Good Investment?

Tue, 30 Mar 2010 14:16:14 +0100

With the stock market ups and downs and the low interest rates on deposits currently, people often ask me if art is a good investment.
In addition to the beauty, aesthetics and often inspiration that art brings to our lives, collectable art such as limited edition signed and numbered prints, and fine art originals can be a very good investment financially.
A few examples are selected works by popular artist Bev Doolittle.

Legacy of Love for Lost Children

Tue, 23 Feb 2010 13:53:12 +0100

My family and I had just finished a day of touring the Cotswolds when rain started to mist the windshield on that Friday night in England 19 years ago. As I guided the rental car through an intersection, a large car barreled over a hilltop and broadsided us at full speed. My daughter, Amelia, 18 months old, was killed instantly, and Jeremy, 4, went into a deep coma from brain hemorrhaging and was hooked up to life support in a nearby hospital. My wife, Wendy, suffered internal injur ...

SCV Youth Orchestra Receives Grant to Establish Music Library

Tue, 23 Feb 2010 13:52:00 +0100

The Santa Clarita Valley Youth Orchestra (SCVYO) Foundation and the College of the Canyons student orchestras have been awarded a $9,000 challenge grant from the Henry Mayo Newhall Foundation (HMNF) to establish a musical library on the COC Valencia campus. Expected to house music for all levels of orchestra from beginner through young professional, when established, the library will lend music and materials to SCV area schools, youth organizations and both private and public musical ensembles. ...

Free Consumer Lectures and Clinics Offered in March at The SCV Senior Center

Tue, 23 Feb 2010 13:48:39 +0100

On Wednesday, March 3: “Reverse Mortgages” will be the subject of a presentation by Bank of America Reverse Loan Officers Maria-Esther Villanueva and Gonzalo Monje from 1 p.m. to 2 p.m. in Activity Rooms one and two of the SCV Senior Center, located at 22900 Market Street in Newhall.

Sell Your Gold Jewelry and Diamonds Legally at Valencia Loan Company, Inc.

Tue, 23 Feb 2010 13:47:15 +0100

We at Valencia Loan Company are proud to say that we are a fully licensed collateral loan agency and direct purchaser of fine gems, jewelry and watches. So if you need a short-term loan, or would just like to sell your unwanted gold or platinum jewelry, we can help. It is quick and easy, all you need is a valid driver’s license or valid passport.

Why Custom Framing?

Tue, 23 Feb 2010 13:46:12 +0100

Whether you’ve got prints, paintings or photographs, properly done framing will give you the maximum enjoyment and protection for your art. A poorly done frame very often results in damaged artwork (fade and tape marks, etc.), lessening both the life and the resale value of the piece.

Feel Beautiful-Feel Empowered... With Your Unique Beauty

Tue, 23 Feb 2010 13:45:11 +0100

Only two percent of women around the world think of themselves as beautiful.
Four out of five women are dissatisfied with their image.
Too often women, starting from their early years, are bombarded with social and cultural misconceptions together with skewed “photoshopped” images that lead to a personal flawed perception which define our definition of beauty.

Embrace the Legacy of Hope: Support the American Cancer Society Mission

Tue, 23 Feb 2010 13:43:38 +0100

In the coming months, as the American Cancer Society’s distinguished gala “Imagine…An Evening in Paris” gears up for its August 8 arrival at Robinson Ranch Golf Club, community members will probably have questions about the soiree. Here are some potential gala ponderings, replete with answers:

Add New Life to Your Walls This Season

Tue, 23 Feb 2010 13:39:34 +0100

Spring is just around the corner and while some of your neighbors may be planting bulbs to brighten their gardens, others are making plans to turn up the color inside their homes. Redecorating has become popular this time of year due to the long association with “Spring Cleaning.”

Find Your "Personal Space" With Home Scents

Tue, 23 Feb 2010 13:14:55 +0100

How can we find more time for ourselves? With the current economic situation we are in, it is more and more difficult to find time to do anything beyond working longer hours, which doesn’t seem to be changing anytime soon, and family time is spent shuttling the kids to and from their events and activities, or to school and back. Quick dinners. No spare time? Help!

Under the Tuscan Snow?

Tue, 23 Feb 2010 13:13:58 +0100

Encountering other cultures, countries and languages has always been a passion of mine and last month we had the opportunity to visit Italy again. I am grateful for all of my adventures, but this trip in particular was truly a journey to remember. First of all, Europe was experiencing one of the coldest fronts in decades so some of our original plans had to be pleasantly diverted.

ACS 'Evening in Paris' Planners Seeks Volunteers

Tue, 26 Jan 2010 11:45:13 +0100

Organizers of the American Cancer Society’s Second Annual “Legacy of Hope” gala, “Imagine… An Evening in Paris,” are seeking volunteers to help fill key committee roles in planning their French-themed late summer event. The gala – which will honor local community leaders for their outstanding commitment to the battle against cancer – is slated for August 8 at Robinson Ranch Golf Club. Sponsors, underwriters, and live/silent auction donors are al ...

Love Is In the Air

Tue, 26 Jan 2010 11:44:22 +0100

Valentine’s Day is a perfect time to get engaged. With all that love in the air, this romantic holiday could set the right mood for your special occasion. Keep in mind as you plan your proposal that this will be one of the most significant moments in both your lives. Make it a day she will remember and cherish forever. The most memorable proposals rarely cost a lot of money, they are just well planned and thought out. Most women dream of this day, so use your imagi ...

Thriving in 2010 Ã¢â¬â We Can Do It!

Tue, 26 Jan 2010 11:43:55 +0100

One of the most exciting and energizing parts of owning our Candleman of Valencia store is making sure we are always bringing in fresh new merchandise for our customers and offering products you won’t find at the big box retailers or department stores. My wife Karen and I traveled to the largest gift show in the United States, the Atlanta Gift Show, in early January. We arrived in eight degree weather and on our first night we watched a snowstorm come in and blanket the Downtow ...

Seven Principles for Creating Depth in Your Painting

Tue, 26 Jan 2010 11:43:19 +0100

The Santa Clarita Artists’ Association (SCAA) February 15, 2010 meeting at 7 p.m. will feature landscape artist, Carolyn Counnas. Carolyn will be demonstrating the Seven Principles of Creating Depth in Your Paintings. Carolyn found her artistic inspiration from trekking around the world. Having lived in India, Africa, Japan and Europe, various ethnic influences are evident in her early work, which captures the feeling, energy and emotion of a place rather than a particular su ...

Let's Talk About Art Ã¢â¬â Did You Know?

Tue, 26 Jan 2010 11:42:12 +0100

With newspapers announcing educational cuts in their budgets and some elementary schools that may be closed, I feel concerned about what all of this will mean in the coming weeks and months.

Happy Healthy 2010!

Tue, 26 Jan 2010 11:41:20 +0100

As the New Year starts, I have been reflecting on the past year and the current economical crisis in the U.S. It is so sad to see what has happened to so many friends, family and people in the news who are faced with such financial challenges due to the economy. It makes me even more thankful though to know how lucky my family has been and how lucky I am to have had such loyal wonderful friends and customers who support our local store here in the Santa Clarita Valley. Santa Cl ...

Music Matters

Tue, 26 Jan 2010 11:40:36 +0100

How often have you heard a song on the radio and instantly you recall a nice memory and your mood is totally altered? Music is magical and transcends age, race and nationality. At Ma Maison we originally had XM radio playing in the background but it soon became routine and monotonous, not adding at all to the eclectic vibe of the store at all – so we changed it. At Ma Maison we hate to be stagnant, so, we decided to make drastic changes in the music we played with fabulous res ...

A Valentine's Gift to Last All Year Long

Tue, 26 Jan 2010 11:39:55 +0100

Valentine’s Day gift ideas typically bring to mind images of flowers, chocolate and candy hearts. When you consider the shelf life of those items they probably don’t last much longer than the greeting card they accompany; a couple of days or possibly a week.

Oh Baby!

Tue, 26 Jan 2010 11:39:16 +0100

On December 25, 2009 proud parents Jada and David Dunn welcomed a beautiful baby girl into the world.

New Team of Captains To Head Local Relay

Tue, 26 Jan 2010 11:38:30 +0100

Jen Minard and Danika Sanchez, two volunteers with a multi-year history with the American Cancer Society’s Relay For Life, have been named co-chairs for the 2010 SCV Relay, scheduled for May 22-23 at Central Park. Monthly committee meetings and team captain meetings are underway to prepare for the event, which brings thousands of walkers raising funds to fight cancer in all of its forms.

Feel Beautiful - Feel Empowered... With Your Body Image

Tue, 26 Jan 2010 11:37:04 +0100

A Profound Message: As a personal trainer and nutritionist I strive to treat my body like the temple that it is, yet I too struggle with my body image. I occasionally battle the body image demon, but for the most part what I used to view as flaws are now symbols of life events that made me who I am today. The stretch marks, which after 26 years are now mostly faded, are a reminder of my pregnancies and my two beautiful daughters.

Meet the Merchants of Stevenson Ranch and Westridge

Tue, 29 Dec 2009 13:12:47 +0100

Meet Our Stevenson Ranch and Westridge Merchants of January 2010!

Oh Baby! Jan 2010

Tue, 29 Dec 2009 13:08:26 +0100

On November 16, 2009 proud parents Frances and Junior Mendibles along with big brothers James, age 6, and Jayden, age 4, welcomed a beautiful baby girl into the world.

Creating a New Look for the New Year

Tue, 29 Dec 2009 13:07:15 +0100

Are you thinking of redecorating or refurbishing rooms in your home? Have you found treasures in your attic, basement or maybe at a flea market, that you would like to display but look too old or worn? You can give your old frame designs new life to fit with your decor. Matting and framing go hand-in-hand to create a fresh, new look.

Times Flies When You're Having Fun

Tue, 29 Dec 2009 13:06:18 +0100

That time-honored cliché clearly applies to the members of Soroptimist International of Santa Clarita Valley as the club celebrates its 35th anniversary. Chartered on December 3, 1974, the club has been an integral part of the growth of Santa Clarita Valley and its members have enthusiastically worked for 35 years to deliver on the club’s mission of helping to improve the lives of women and girls locally and around the world. The club was presented with proclamations by Marsh ...

More Than a Business

Tue, 29 Dec 2009 13:03:42 +0100

When I was young, I used to view stores as “corporate entities” - cold, lifeless businesses with stuff inside to buy or to browse. After opening Paper Mulberry in 1994, I now know that businesses - especially local independent businesses - are so much more. They are very similar to humans—living, breathing beings with a heart, a soul, and a personality. Just like giving birth, the owners of these beings imagine them into reality, plan for their arrival, and nurture ...

We Can Do Our Part for Global Equity in 2010

Tue, 29 Dec 2009 13:01:31 +0100

Fair trade, an international movement designed to alleviate global poverty and promote sustainability, has been growing by leaps and bounds. Fair trade helps communities directly by requiring fair labor conditions and safe environmental practices to support local economic development. The movement has gained more attention as of late and has led to more conscious consumers. Fair trade products are not to be confused with green products. Green products aren’t just th ...

Fresh Start for the New Year with Home Scents

Tue, 29 Dec 2009 13:00:27 +0100

Happy New Year! Time for a fresh start, renewal, and harnessing that positive energy that gets us through good times and challenging time. How do we begin the process in our home and office after the holiday season to invigorate our senses, and let everyone know that “change is in the air?” Start the year with a fresh start fragrancing throughout your home and office space. The wonderful harvest and holiday scented candles have been burned, providing warmth and com ...

Feel Beautiful - Feel Empowered...with Valentine Boudoir Portraits Entrepreneur of the Month

Tue, 29 Dec 2009 12:58:36 +0100

At 32 years old I was ready to accept my body for what it is. Little did I know that my boudoir portrait experience was going to be one of celebration and self-realization. Two major life events had just occurred: marriage and my first marathon. It was the perfect time for boudoir photos— wedding gift to my husband and a reward for me. It was a time to call a truce with myself, accept my body, and give myself a pat on the back for my marathon accomplishment.

Sky Blue Radiance

Tue, 24 Nov 2009 10:18:29 +0100

Blue Topaz is a beautiful birthstone designated for the month of December. Topaz is a fluorine aluminum silicate and comes in a rainbow of colors from blue, green, yellow, brown, pink, and sometimes colorless. Yellow Topaz is the alternate birthstone for November.
Blue Topaz comes in three different shades. London blue, which is a deeper turquoise blue, the Swiss blue, which is a rich light blue and the Sky blue that is a pale powder blue.

And TheyÃ¢â¬â¢re Off!

Tue, 24 Nov 2009 10:17:57 +0100

They ran everywhere; through the Valley and through the streets to a big finish at the Westfield Valencia Town Center. The 2009 Santa Clarita Marathon, held on Sunday, November 8 was an official qualifying race for the Boston Marathon bringing residents and runners from all over came to participate in the successful event.

Living With the Empty Chair at Holiday Dinners

Tue, 24 Nov 2009 10:17:16 +0100

Holidays are sad reminders of those we have lost. Whether it’s your first, 10th or 50th year without your loved one, the empty chair at holiday dinners can cause enormous pain.
“As a society we are not trained or prepared to deal with life’s most predictable event and that is loss,” said grief counselor Jeff Zhorne, director of The Grief Program and a resident of Valencia.

CB Richard Ellis is the Global Leader in Real Estate Services

Tue, 24 Nov 2009 10:16:20 +0100

Each year, we complete thousands of successful assignments - with clients from the gamut of industries. This volume creates market knowledge that allows us to seize opportunities, speed the business process and create the most thorough, precisely accurate picture of global commercial real estate conditions and trends.

"The Great Mrs. Claus"

Tue, 24 Nov 2009 10:14:49 +0100

Have you ever wondered who is Mrs. Claus and how did she and Santa meet? Or can Santa truly run the North Pole without her? How did the first reindeer really learn to fly? Chris Shoemaker, a Saugus resident, wrote a beautiful book about this exact topic, sure to be a family tradition. Mrs. Claus is an integral part of the Christmas traditions and in this book we are able explore deeper into the story that started it all.

Grateful! Gracious! Good Guy!

Tue, 24 Nov 2009 10:12:26 +0100

Mr. E.W. Waldeck needed a wheelchair ramp and availed himself of the Handyworker Services Department at the SCV Senior Center to meet that need. Department Supervisor Frank Pascoe, Handyworkers Bob Belendez, and Francis Williams, and Executive Director Brad Berens were the recipients of Wally’s thanks on October 30.

Single in Santa Clarita

Tue, 24 Nov 2009 10:10:30 +0100

Many of my readers write to tell me that they are not in the age group that my columns focus on. It occurs to me that finding your soul mate is just as difficult at 53 as it is at 23 or 73. This column is for the older crowd.
After reading so many of your letters, I want to start by applauding your desire to get out there to meet someone to spend time with. But how do you get started? Think about some of the things you enjoy.

This Holiday Make Gifts "Green" and Personal

Tue, 24 Nov 2009 10:09:28 +0100

“Oh gee, thanks! You thought I’d like this? Did you wait until the last minute again?” Sound familiar? How many times have we “mis-gifted?” Maybe it’s time to rethink your gifting and try personalizing your presents while making them earth-friendly at the same time. One way to do this is by putting a photo of the giftee’s child, grandchild or pet on a tote bag. Totes are very “out there” and make a st ...

Holiday Gift Giving

Tue, 24 Nov 2009 10:05:06 +0100

Looking for the perfect gift? This holiday season consider giving a personal item that can be enjoyed each and every day of the year. Whether you’re looking for something for a family member, friend or business associate, custom framing offers many options.

Where to Buy a Gift that Makes "Good Scents"

Tue, 24 Nov 2009 10:04:22 +0100

Where can you go to do your holiday shopping, find convenient parking, not fight the crowds, and go into a shop that brings a smile on your face, is affordable and calms you the minute you walk into it?
Candleman of Valencia, of course. Kevin and Karen Leahy, owners of the Santa Clarita Valley’s premier candle, home fragrance and gift boutique, invite you to see what makes this shop so special. Candleman has been a part of the community for over four years.

A Family Created through Adoption

Tue, 24 Nov 2009 10:01:31 +0100

Pamela Pollard went to the library to find out what activities were happening in her neighborhood. While there, she noticed a poster about Children’s Bureau’s foster care and adoption program. Her interest was piqued so she called the agency for more information and requested an application packet.

Holiday Open House at The Cat Doctor & Friends

Tue, 24 Nov 2009 10:00:33 +0100

Join friends on Saturday, December 12 at 26055 Bouquet Canyon Road in Santa Clarita from 3:30 p.m. to 6 p.m.
Bring the whole family and help a great cause – Cats in need in the Santa Clarita Valley.

Feel Beautiful-Feel Empowered...With A New Mirror

Tue, 24 Nov 2009 09:55:47 +0100

I won a boudoir sitting in a raffle at the Association of Women Entrepreneurs of Santa Clarita meeting. The entire room burst into laughter. Me, someone who never wins so much as a pencil in raffle giveaways, was the winner of the “get naked” prize. Great. I told Maureen, the photographer, that boudoir “isn’t my thing,” so could we do a glamour shoot instead? Sure. I’ve had pictures taken before, and I’ve looked into t ...

Holiday Gift Guide

Wed, 28 Oct 2009 11:33:39 +0100

Sixth Annual School Food Vendor Show

Mon, 26 Oct 2009 11:31:07 +0100

For decades, school cafeteria food has received a bad reputation. From greasy fries to pizza pockets that soar in the calorie department, school food has never been ideal for a student, at least, from the parent’s standpoint! Thanks to a program called Santa Clarita Valley School Food Services Agency (SCVSFSA), parents of elementary school students can rest assured that their children are eating wholesome foods.

Country Antique Fair Celebrates 30 Years

Mon, 26 Oct 2009 11:29:07 +0100

The Country Antique Fair Mall is one of Santa Clarita’s longest-standing establishments and has remained in the same location for the past 30 years. The Fair owes its longevity to the fabulous dealers and patrons. With an upcoming anniversary celebration, it’s hoped that the Fair will continue to prosper for the next 30 years.

A Golden Ray of Sun

Mon, 26 Oct 2009 11:28:13 +0100

Citrine and yellow Topaz shares the role of being the birthstone for November. Both of these gemstones are a beautiful golden color and they are sometimes mistaken for one another. Citrine and yellow Topaz are separate and unrelated mineral species. Topaz is fluorine aluminum silicate crystal that is available in a variety of beautiful colors from brown, yellow, blue, pink and colorless. While yellow Topaz is perhaps the most common and affordable; it is still extremely a ...

Home Scent "Gift Guide"

Mon, 26 Oct 2009 11:25:54 +0100

The holiday season is here! Here is a recommended “gift guide” that makes “good scents.”
Hostess Gifts (Non-family): Bring a “warm” food or “holiday” fragrance inspired scented jar candle, or a reed diffuser with a citrus scent. A themed gift with santa, snowmen or reindeer motif is also appreciated, with matching votives and tea lights. Suggest these in groups of three.

Holiday Gift Giving Tips

Mon, 26 Oct 2009 11:23:59 +0100

As holiday season approaches, it’s more important than ever to organize your gift giving to save time and money. Listed below are gift giving tips that will help streamline your holiday shopping and make it less stressful and more pleasurable.

What is With the Fleur De Lys?

Mon, 26 Oct 2009 11:21:56 +0100

So many of us love the Fleur De Lis symbol and at Ma Maison we carry many products with it on them, but how many of us actually know what it means? We get asked that question all the time so we decided to research it and let everyone know. The fleur-de-lis (or fleur-de-lys; plural) is a stylized lily (in French, fleur means flower, and lis means lily) literally meaning “lily flower” which is used as a decorative design or symbol in the form of three tapering petals tied b ...

The Revolutionary Strength Training Plan For Losing Fat and Getting the Body You Want

Mon, 26 Oct 2009 11:17:33 +0100

Fitness Coach, Ironman Triathlete and Author Rachel Cosgrove Shows You How Santa Clarita gym owner, fitness guru and now author, Rachel Cosgrove, is on a mission—a one woman campaign to debunk the common weight loss myths that have prevented women of all ages from achieving the truly fit, lean and sculpted bodies of their dreams. Her forthcoming book The Female Body Breakthrough (Rodale, November 2009) offers easy to follow advice on how to get past these myths and achieve your fi ...

Holiday Gift Ideas

Mon, 26 Oct 2009 11:15:57 +0100

Coming up with holiday gift ideas can be as difficult as maneuvering through crowds of a “one day sale.” Sweaters and gift sets most likely will top the list for friends and relatives, but what if you’re looking for something different, something special? The following gift ideas may fit your recipients perfectly or they may help spark creative ideas of your own.

Angels are Watching Over All of Us

Mon, 28 Sep 2009 13:41:58 +0100

Some of you may know this already, but last year tragedy struck our lives at Ma Maison and one of the owners lost her 15 year-old son, Taylor LaKamp, to a tragic motorcycle accident. Our lives were forever altered and the grieving process continues, but with all horrific life experiences we have now found that there can be some shining light if you let it in.

Nightmares of Newhall Beginning October 17 Every Weekend Until October 31

Mon, 28 Sep 2009 13:36:39 +0100

Join us October 17 at 7 p.m. until 10 p.m. for the beginning of the Heritage Haunt. Detailed information is posted on our website at www.scvhaunt.com.
New World Dance - a lively ballet performance of Sleepy Hollow you will never forget.
Psycho’s Fun House - Crazy clowns are lurking around every corner in an intense clown maze with attitude.

Judge Graciela Freixes Ã¢ÂÂ A Superior Woman

Mon, 28 Sep 2009 13:19:15 +0100

AAUW Santa Clarita Branch Presents the First Program in 2009-2010 Speaker Series, “Women Activating Change”

Appointed to the Superior Court of California in Santa Clarita by Governor Schwarzenegger, our own SCV resident, Judge Graciela Freixes, is the first female Cuban-American judge west of Miami. She traveled the tumultuous journey from Havana as a Freedom Flight refugee to become a freedom defender in the United States.

Financial Relief with Upscale Pawn Shop Ã¢ÂÂ Valencia Loan Company

Mon, 28 Sep 2009 13:18:17 +0100

There is a new high-end pawn shop in the Santa Clarita Valley. Get instant cash when you sell or take out a personal loan on your fine jewelry, coins, precious metals, upscale watches, and diamonds. Valencia Loan Company, established in 1957, has been serving Southern California residents in their Beverly Hills office, and has a new second office near the Ice Station on 28015 Smyth Drive in Valencia to provide service to the residents of Santa Clarita.”I have been a resident of Valen ...

Opal: Embrace the Rainbow

Mon, 28 Sep 2009 13:16:51 +0100

Opal is the official birthstone for October and is the most colorful of all gems. Each Opal is distinctly an individual.
There are two types of Opals — precious and common. Precious Opal displays a unique play of color (the ability to disperse light into flashes of rainbow colors). Common Opal is dull and does not exhibit a play of color.

Feel Beautiful, Feel EmpoweredÃ¢ÂÂ¦ In Spite of the Scars

Mon, 28 Sep 2009 13:16:19 +0100

Monica Cervantes, Customer of the Month/Breast Cancer Month, is a beautiful, 38-year-old mother and breast cancer survivor. Five years after being diagnosed, she is a different person inside and out, but it has been a very long and painful journey. Her physicians initially tried to preserve her right breast by performing a Lumpectomy, a surgical procedure where only the tumor is removed.

The Doggie Tote is the New Doggie Bag

Mon, 28 Sep 2009 13:14:30 +0100

If you want to be “green,” one of the first things to do is make sure you have a tote bag for groceries and everything else that manages to travel with you. The fact is just about everybody could use a tote. They’re not only terrific for groceries, but for back-to-school, baby bag overflow, Fido’s travel accessories and more.

Scents of the Harvest Season

Mon, 28 Sep 2009 13:12:11 +0100

With the change of the seasons, it is not only time to put away those white outfits, tank tops, sandals and flip flops, it is also time to change out the summer candles, diffusers and décor items throughout your home and office!
Summer was great, but lets get down to the best fragrancing season of the year, the “Harvest” season.

Framing Children's Art

Mon, 28 Sep 2009 13:11:06 +0100

Do you have a budding Picasso in your family? Hanging posters and other artwork on your walls is a great way to enhance your home, but try taking your décor to another level by proudly displaying your child’s art. It provides endless possibilities for home décor because there are many creative and fun ways to frame children’s artwork.

J.R.'s Comedy Club and National Comedy Stars Unite for a Cause

Mon, 24 Aug 2009 15:19:53 +0100

On October 12, something funny is going on at Robinson Ranch Golf Course. That will be the day of the J.R.’s Comedy Club Celebrity Golf Classic, benefiting the Santa Clarita Homeless Shelter.

Feel Beautiful Ã¢ÂÂ Feel Empowered with a New Mirror

Mon, 24 Aug 2009 15:18:00 +0100

I won a boudoir sitting in a raffle at the Association of Women Entrepreneurs of Santa Clarita meeting. The entire room burst into laughter. Me, who never wins so much as a pencil in raffle giveaways, was the winner of the “get naked” prize. Great. I told Maureen, the photographer, that boudoir “isn’t my thing” — so could we do a glamour shoot instead? Sure. I’ve had pictures taken before, and I’ve looked into the mirror a g ...

AAUW Hosts Their Annual Membership Brunch

Mon, 24 Aug 2009 15:15:46 +0100

The Santa Clarita Valley Branch of the American Association of University Women will hold its Annual Membership Brunch to celebrate 41 years of service in the SCV and to kick-off the year’s activities, on Saturday, September 19, at 10 a.m. at the home of Louise Schultz.

Creating a Picture Wall

Mon, 24 Aug 2009 15:15:09 +0100

A picture wall displays a group of framed items in a coordinated design. The frames may all be the same style or the same color, but most often a picture wall includes a variety of different frames. The artwork may be united by a theme such as vacation photos, a collection of sports memorabilia or family portraits.

Sapphires Shine Like the Stars in the Sky

Mon, 24 Aug 2009 15:14:37 +0100

Sapphire is the official birthstone for the month of September. This dynamic blue gemstone is a variety of the mineral corundum. Blue is the usual color associated with sapphire, and the brighter most intense blue is the most valuable. Sapphires also come in a wide range of colors including yellow, green, white, pink, orange, brown and purple. Red corundum shares the same characteristics but is designated as a ruby gemstone. Sapphires are mined in Australia, China, ...

Candle Lovers: Welcome to Harvest Season

Mon, 24 Aug 2009 15:13:11 +0100

The favorite time of the year for candle lovers has arrived. What makes it so special? There is something magical when the scents of the “harvest” season are lit. Childhood memories are brought back with the amazing aroma of apples, cinnamon, pumpkin, oatmeal cookies and spices placed throughout your home or office. It is a comforting feeling that doesn’t allow anxiety, stress or pressure to enter the equation, at least for a little while!

Single in Santa Clarita

Mon, 24 Aug 2009 15:12:01 +0100

Now that we know how to meet other singles here in the Santa Clarita Valley, let’s review the profiles that we’ve kept (or are about to place) online, just in case.

Classic Designs Jewelry Participates in Major Fundraiser to Benefit Pediatric Cancer

Mon, 24 Aug 2009 15:10:44 +0100

Apo Yessayan of Classic Designs Jewelry in Valencia recently attended the semiannual conference of the Independent Jewelers Organization (IJO) held in Charlotte, NC, home of the Lowe’s Motor Speedway. It has been IJO’s practice to raise funds to benefit a worthwhile cause in the city they visit. According to IJO President and CEO Jeff Roberts, “We bring close to 3,000 visitors to the sites where we hold our conferences, and several years ago we decided to leave a li ...

Create While You Celebrate

Mon, 24 Aug 2009 15:08:21 +0100

How many of the same-old, same-old baby showers and birthday parties have you been to lately? How many have you hosted? It’s work!
Wouldn’t you like the load lifted? The cleaning, food, entertainment and cleaning again is virtually impossible. It’s hard to be inventive, creative and practical while keeping things affordable.

Meet The New Merchants of The Magazine of Santa Clarita

Thu, 23 Jul 2009 12:43:14 +0100

These are our new merchants in August!

Whether You Are A New Business or A New Advertiser To The Magazine of Santa Clarita Maybe You Haven’t Advertised With Us For A While

Let Us Introduce You To 80,000 Homes In Our Valley

Run Your Ad In The Next Issue & We’ll Feature You In Our “Meet The New Merchants” Section

For More Information Call Us At: 661-294-4444

Daily Parking Pass

Thu, 23 Jul 2009 12:38:35 +0100

Increase at COC to Help Fund Free Bus Program

College of the Canyons will raise the cost of one-day parking passes from $1 to $2, effective August 3, to help fund the college’s new free bus program for students, which will launch in the fall.

Passing of an Era

Thu, 23 Jul 2009 12:37:42 +0100

The summer has been tinged with sadness, as we at the Magazine of Santa Clarita lost three men very dear to us. Since these men led spectacular lives and all were a tremendous part of our community in Santa Clarita, we would like to remember them during the prime of their lives, but also say farewell to Bob Mitchell (1912-2009), Sheldon Allen (1932-2009), and Joe Cipriano (1938-2009). May your memory always be fresh in the minds of everyone who knew you.

Oh Baby!

Thu, 23 Jul 2009 12:36:44 +0100

On June 14, 2009 proud parents Sarah and Rob along with big sister Riley welcomed a beautiful baby girl into the world.

Single in Santa Clarita

Thu, 23 Jul 2009 12:36:09 +0100

You would think that here in the Santa Clarita Valley, there would only be a couple of ways for people our age to meet someone new. We know that there’s the Internet, and local meet-up organizations (described below). But did you ever consider the freeway?

New Board Takes the Reins at SISCV

Thu, 23 Jul 2009 12:34:46 +0100

Second term President, Terri Cadiente, has chosen “Come Ride With Me” as this year’s theme for Soroptimist International of Santa Clarita Valley. The club’s New Officer Installation took place on July 8 at the beautiful home of Bob and Soroptimist member Diane Benjamin in Sand Canyon. More than 60 guests including club members, Soroptimist guests and local dignitaries witnessed the swearing in of the club’s new Board of Directors as they take over the re ...

East Meets West in New SentinaÃÂ® LED Zenlight Featuring Soothing, Peaceful, Practical ...

Thu, 23 Jul 2009 12:33:28 +0100

Innovative, energy saving Sentina® ZenLight™ emits a soft tranquil light through a unique Japanese Shoji screen filter; Perfect for kitchens, hallways, bedrooms, and bathrooms. Energy conscious, design oriented consumers looking for a household lighting solution that combines the very best of ancient Japanese lighting methods with the latest LED lighting technology now have an answer — thanks to the new Sentina® LED ZenLight™.

Feel Beautiful - Feel Empowered Celebrating Self-Realization

Thu, 23 Jul 2009 12:32:22 +0100

At 32 years old, I was ready to accept my body for what it is. Little did I know that my boudoir portrait experience was going to be one of celebration and self-realization. Two major life events had just occurred: marriage and my first marathon. It was the perfect time for boudoir photos. A wedding gift to my husband and a reward for me. It was a time to call a truce with myself, accept my body, and give myself a pat on the back for my marathon accomplishment.

ROOM & BLOOMS Create-a-thon

Thu, 23 Jul 2009 12:31:23 +0100

Summertime is officially coming to a close in a few weeks as kids head back to school and vacations wind down. Let’s get back to our normal routine, but this time, try it with a twist. For instance, how about a night out with friends to shop and have fun, but add some spice? It’s time for you to indulge, stretch, grow and enjoy.

Conservation Framing

Thu, 23 Jul 2009 12:30:37 +0100

Conservation Framing, sometimes called Preservation Framing, refers to the materials and techniques used to frame valued art and objects to the highest standard. From matboards to glass to the paper cover on the back of the frame, today’s framers can provide a variety of specialized products and methods to display art and objects in the best possible environment.

Reed Diffusers Ã¢ÂÂ Making Perfect "Summer Scents"

Thu, 23 Jul 2009 12:29:10 +0100

With our hot summer days in full force, a popular alternative to scented candles are the fast-growing reed diffuser category.
What is a reed diffuser? First and foremost, you don’t light it like a candle! Reed diffusers are a method of distributing scented oil throughout an environment, either home, office or wherever fragrance is desired (which is almost everywhere).

A Glimpse of Old Town Newhall

Mon, 22 Jun 2009 12:58:52 +0100

What do Newhall and The Henry Mayo Medical Clinic have in common? They are both named after Henry Mayo Newhall, the main founder and investor in the town aptly named Newhall. The town of Newhall is currently a small hub for train traffic and small shops in the Santa Clarita Valley. Many people are unaware that Newhall has such rich history. Lucky for us, Santa Clarita has its very own Historical Society.

Parading Around Newhall Since 1932

Mon, 22 Jun 2009 12:57:57 +0100

To modern Santa Claritans, parades on the Fourth of July represent a joyous tradition celebrating the birth of our nation, as well as time when our faithful citizens gather together to enjoy the floats created by various SCV organizations.

Two New Leaders on the Board

Mon, 22 Jun 2009 12:48:46 +0100

Single Mothers Outreach welcomes Jay Thomas and Marc Emmer
There are two new faces on the Board of the Single Mothers Outreach - prominent community members, Jay Thomas, President of Six Flags Magic Mountain and Hurricane Harbor and Marc Emmer, President of Optimize Inc, a management-consulting firm in Valencia. Both bring a wealth of knowledge and leadership skills to the organization.

She Knew When to Hold'em

Mon, 22 Jun 2009 12:47:51 +0100

Dr. Amy Wagner, Canyon Country pediatrician, took top honors at the Soroptimist International of Santa Clarita Valley’s first annual Fiesta Poker Texas Hold’em tournament Saturday night, June 6 at the Westridge Horizon Clubhouse. Dr. Wagner’s husband, Paolo Hernandez, also landed a seat at the final table.

Rubies Are Sizzling Hot!

Mon, 22 Jun 2009 12:32:57 +0100

Ruby is the official birthstone for July. Ruby jewelry is also a universal favorite. This intense red gemstone comes from a variety of minerals called corundum. The red color is caused mainly by the presence of chromium. Corundum of any other color is called a sapphire.

Feel Beautiful Ã¢ÂÂ Feel Empowered...With Your Body Image

Mon, 22 Jun 2009 12:31:20 +0100

As a personal trainer and nutritionist I strive to treat my body like the temple that it is, yet I too struggle with my body image. I occasionally battle the body image demon, but for the most part what I used to view as flaws are now symbols of life events that made me who I am today. The stretch marks, which after 26 years are now mostly faded, are a reminder of my pregnancies and my two beautiful daughters.

Refreshing Ideas for Summer

Mon, 22 Jun 2009 12:29:53 +0100

A great follow up to spring cleaning is updating the look of your home. Reframing existing artwork is one way to rejuvenate the look in any room. The variety of framing materials available allows you to create any setting from ultra casual to highly elegant.

NewhallÃ¢ÂÂs Golden Oaks Pavilion

Mon, 22 Jun 2009 12:28:26 +0100

- Haiku -
Tibetan prayer flags
Adorn the old-west wood porch.
Happiness inside.

Old Town Newhall is different from the rest of Santa Clarita. The old-growth trees and roads that were once stage coach and pony express trails hold on to secrets. Listen and old-timers will spin stories about the area’s colorful history.

Small Town "Feeling" Ã¢ÂÂ Summer Celebrations

Mon, 22 Jun 2009 12:26:26 +0100

This summer, there is a “small town” feeling all of us can relate to, even if we were brought up in the big city. Think about carnivals coming through town, block parties, family reunions, patriotic themes of red, white and blue, 4th of July parades (like our very own parade held on the 4th of July every year in Newhall), summer food, drink and dessert favorites.

Henry Mayo ER Physician Recognized as Hospital's 100th "Healthcare Hero"

Tue, 26 May 2009 11:22:59 +0100

Darrin Privett, MD, an emergency room physician at Henry Mayo Newhall Memorial Hospital, was recognized as the 100th Healthcare Hero during a surprise announcement on April 23, 2009.

Getting Engaged?

Tue, 26 May 2009 11:21:47 +0100

Are you thinking of getting engaged? Keep in mind as you plan your proposal that this will be one of the most significant moments in both your lives. Make it a day she will remember and cherish forever. The most memorable proposals rarely cost a lot of money, they are just well planned and thought out.

Pastel Specialist to Demo at SCAA

Tue, 26 May 2009 11:21:12 +0100

The Santa Clarita Artists’ Association (SCAA) June 15, 2009 meeting will feature Meli Calkins on the subject of soft pastels, demonstrating a seascape or landscape, at 7 p.m. at Westfield Town Center.

Henry Mayo's Volunteers Spotlighted As "Star Performers"

Tue, 26 May 2009 11:19:53 +0100

Local volunteers were in the spotlight during Henry Mayo Newhall Memorial Hospital’s annual volunteer recognition luncheon at the Hyatt Valencia on April 23, 2009. Coinciding with National Volunteer Week, the “Volunteers Are Star Performers” celebration offered attendees the opportunity to dress up as their favorite Hollywood celebrity or movie character. They responded in gusto, with “Carmen Miranda,” “Pocahontas,” and “Snow White” spo ...

Feel Beautiful Ã¢ÂÂ Feel Empowered A Shiny New Penny Part 2

Tue, 26 May 2009 11:17:44 +0100

As the big day approached I had no idea how wonderful it was to pamper myself with a manicure, pedicure, hair color and new style. I awoke on the “shoot day” with feelings of dread. I delayed getting out of bed for as long as I could for today was the day I would go out on a limb and expose myself in all my glory.

Oh Baby! -June 2009

Tue, 26 May 2009 11:16:53 +0100

On January 14, 2009 proud parents Mirta and Ruben Gamez along with big brothers Mateo and Diego welcomed a beautiful baby girl into the world.

The Magic Time

Tue, 26 May 2009 11:16:12 +0100

At ROOMS & BLOOMS we call a baby’s first 24 months “The Magic Time.” The passing of time and baby’s age is counted in days, weeks and months, not years. Everyone wants to savor these moments and make them last. It’s possible to make these moments even more special for yourself or a loved one with the plethora of ultra-cute clothes, toys and educational devices that are available. Designers of baby clothes and gifts have been able to build on ...

Save Our Local Economy Ã¢ÂÂ Three Stores at a Time

Tue, 26 May 2009 11:15:32 +0100

Candleman is participating in a nation-wide grass roots effort that is called the 3/50 project. The concept is supporting the brick and mortar stores our nation is built on.

Hanging Art and Personal Mementos: Is There a Particular Formula to Follow?

Tue, 26 May 2009 11:14:47 +0100

Over the last 28 years we have hung thousands of paintings and framed shadow box picture and framed mementos at our gallery, in clients’ homes and offices, and in our own home. There are times when customers ask us, “Is there a formula or particular way to hang art?” To answer this question is rather easy. In our opinion the best way to hang art is to do it by eying the wall where you plan to place your pictures and collectibles and start with a central spot, ...

I'm Back From Antwerp

Mon, 27 Apr 2009 12:41:11 +0100

I have recently returned from a buying trip to the Diamond Capital of the World – Antwerp, Belgium – where two-thirds of the world’s diamonds are traded. I had the unique opportunity to buy direct from the major Antwerp cutters and pass significant savings on to customers in the Santa Clarita Valley area. I louped and handpicked all the diamonds purchased in Antwerp, Belgium.

It's More Than Just a Game

Mon, 27 Apr 2009 12:40:25 +0100

Baseball. You can’t help but love the game and everything about it. It’s nine innings of pure competition, camaraderie and tradition. Opening Day marks new beginnings as baseball season is awakened by the first pitch, the crack of the bat and fans singing Take Me Out to the Ballgame during the seventh inning stretch. It’s a game of passion. It’s America’s game.

Mothers' Rings: A Precious Gift for a Precious Person

Mon, 27 Apr 2009 12:38:29 +0100

Mother’s Day is a special day to honor our mothers. What a perfect time to show our love and appreciation to such a divine individual. Many mothers are gentle, loving, patient, kind and these are just a few wonderful qualities they possess. They give so much of themselves, usually wanting little or nothing in return.

Family, Friends and Framing

Mon, 27 Apr 2009 12:37:48 +0100

We pride ourselves in serving the Santa Clarita Valley since 1981. Barbara and I started our business out of our house near Saugus High School and in 1983 purchased B&R Framing & Art Supplies at 17720 Sierra Highway in Canyon Country from Bob Owen and his family. Back in 1983 B&R was 1,600 square feet, and we evolved through the years to 2009, and currently have a 6,000-square-foot facility. We are very blessed that we have such friendly customers and friends here i ...

The Santa Clarita Artists' Association

Mon, 27 Apr 2009 12:36:12 +0100

The Santa Clarita Artists’ Association (SCAA) May 18, 2009 meeting at 7 p.m. will feature Johanna Spinks, master of portraiture.
Johanna’s work has won her national acclaim being featured recently in The New York Times, and earning juried recognition, awards and show acceptances from various art institutions including American Artist Magazine, Art Talk, Oil Painters of America and The California Art Club.

The Gift-Givers of the World

Mon, 27 Apr 2009 12:34:47 +0100

The modern Mother’s Day holiday was created by Anna Jarvis as a day for each family to honor its mother. Ironically the country’s greatest proponent of motherhood never had children of her own. Yet that didn’t stop her from making the celebration of Mother’s Day her lifelong mission.

It's Springtime at the Fair

Mon, 27 Apr 2009 12:34:01 +0100

The Country Antique Fair Mall will host their annual spring sale Friday, May 1 thru Sunday, May 3, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. “The Fair,” centrally located in Santa Clarita has become one of the city’s oldest businesses, having opened its doors in 1979. In fact, turning 30 this year they will celebrate their anniversary with another sale in November.

Feel Beautiful and Feel Empowered with Intimate Portraits Part One of Four

Mon, 27 Apr 2009 12:28:28 +0100

My name is Penny, and yesterday I embarked on an adventure of a lifetime. Before I go on I must tell you that having my “Intimate Portrait” done was something I wanted to do after I lost the 30 pounds that has magically appeared on my not-so-young anymore body. OK, maybe not magically appeared.

The Marvels of Art

Mon, 27 Apr 2009 12:27:37 +0100

Breathtaking pieces of art is what you will find at Turquoise Picasso. Owner Richard Hunter wanted to nurture his old hobbies and interests once he became disabled. Turquoise Picasso allows him to do just that with his many works of beautiful art. Turquoise Picasso offers 20th Century master’s art from Picasso, Erte, Dali, Icart, Rockwell and more. The art includes original and one-of-a-kind hand signed pieces and special editions.

Kitchen DÃÂ©cor Decorating The "New" Living Room

Mon, 27 Apr 2009 12:24:25 +0100

If you entertain in your home chances are you’ve noticed the tendency of guests to gather in the kitchen. No matter how comfortable and inviting your living areas may be, people seem to migrate to the kitchen. Take it as a compliment; the aroma wafting through the house is probably too irresistible to keep them away. As dining areas have become more of a social gathering spot, many people are dressing up the walls as they do in other rooms of their home, in order to creat ...

Company is Coming - Get your Home Ready with "Scent-sational" Fragrances!

Mon, 27 Apr 2009 12:23:44 +0100

May is here, and that means many entertaining opportunities: the big one, Mothers Day, on May 10th, Cinco de Mayo, Graduations, Memorial Day, warm weather barbeques and celebrating family events. In addition to preparing for the big events with the right food and refreshments, step up the entertaining quotient with just the right home fragrances for every room in the house, inside and out. We are often asked from new customers why their neighbor’s homes always have such a nice scent ...

Santa Clarita Christian Fellowship Ã¢ÂÂA Church Where Marriages Grow StrongerÃ¢ÂÂ

Thu, 26 Mar 2009 12:17:43 +0100

This year my wife and I will celebrate 30 years of marriage. We were married very young (she was 20 and I was 21) and had absolutely no idea what it took to make a marriage work, nor did we understand our respective roles and responsibilities. Thank God for his grace and kindness towards us, for he was the one who kept us together and enabled us to grow and prosper as a couple.

Because He Did, You Can

Thu, 26 Mar 2009 12:16:38 +0100

Have you ever found yourself suspended in the middle of what appeared to be a hopeless situation? I’m talking about a situation so seemingly hopeless that you found yourself wondering how you even got there, not to mention how you’re going to get out. One of the most disappointing things in life is to be faced with a situation that appears to have no hope. There’s nothing more discouraging than to be faced with a major problem without any solution - questions ...

Compassion Comes with Pain

Thu, 26 Mar 2009 12:08:21 +0100

“Not Herod, Not Caiaphas, not Pilate, not Judas ever contrived to fasten upon Jesus Christ the reproach of insipidity; that final indignity was left for pious hands to inflict. To make of his story something that could neither startle nor shock, nor terrify, nor excite, nor inspire a living soul is to crucify the Son of God afresh and put Him to an open shame.” — Dorothy L. Sayers

The Good Life, It's Better than You Think

Thu, 26 Mar 2009 11:58:29 +0100

What if you could be released from everything that truly burdens you? What if your best day was only a shadow of things to come? What if there was a way of living better than anything you could imagine?

Valencia UMC: A Corner of Hope

Thu, 26 Mar 2009 11:57:36 +0100

“How very good and pleasant it is when brothers and sisters live together in unity!” Psalm 133:1
It is with great joy that we invite you to join us at Valencia United Methodist Church this Easter and in the days ahead! We are a community of Christ-followers with a solid foundation, full of hope for tomorrow and a family of faith with a vision to be a place where lives are continuously transformed through Jesus Christ.

Oh Baby! - April 2009

Thu, 26 Mar 2009 11:55:11 +0100

On November 11, 2008 proud parents Rick and Crystal Hilstein welcomed a beautiful baby girl into the world. Charlie Shea Hilstein was born weighing seven pounds three ounces and was 20 inches long.

Sean: Strength and Tenacity

Thu, 26 Mar 2009 11:54:27 +0100

Sean was six years old when his parents noticed he was becoming increasingly uncoordinated. He was stumbling and falling, even more than the normal six-year-old silliness. And then, when the headaches started, Rich and Kelly Anderson became progressively more concerned for their son. The pediatrician immediately ordered a CAT scan and the diagnosis was almost immediate. Their precious child had a tumor, just above the brain stem in the fourth ventricle of his brain.

Diamonds: Indulge Yourself in a Burst of Fireworks

Thu, 26 Mar 2009 11:53:51 +0100

A diamond is a unique stone that possesses remarkable physical qualities, making it a highly desirable stone. A diamond is the official birthstone for April. Many people wear and enjoy this gemstone, whether it’s their birthstone or not.

A Long Time Customer Wins Big

Thu, 26 Mar 2009 11:52:00 +0100

You may have seen the car in Westfield’s Valencia Town Center. It was parked in the mall for six weeks following Thanksgiving. It’s the Valencia Time Center Smart Car®. Strolling shoppers had an opportunity to submit an entry to win a Ball watch from the Valencia Time Center. Some 485 votes later, the winner was chosen.

Antiques and Collectibles The Original Recyclables

Thu, 26 Mar 2009 11:51:24 +0100

If you’re looking to “go green,” then antiques and collectibles can be a wonderful place to start. From furniture to dinnerware, decorator items to vintage textiles and, yes, even old tools and car parts. Many of these items can be found where antiques and collectibles are sold. There are auctions houses, antique stores, garage sales, thrift stores, swap meets, print ads Craig’s List, eBay and more.

Feel Beautiful - Feel Empowered Through Healthy Living

Thu, 26 Mar 2009 11:50:32 +0100

Only two percent of women around the world think of themselves as beautiful and four out of five women are dissatisfied with their image. Too often women, starting from their early years, are bombarded with social, cultural misconceptions and skewed PhotoShopped images that lead to a personal flawed perception which defines our definition of beauty.

Celebrate Earth Day with Green Living Tips

Thu, 26 Mar 2009 11:49:39 +0100

Earth day is celebrated this year on Wednesday, April 22. It is a day that reminds us to do the important things in our daily life that helps the environment. We should treat every day as Earth Day. We need to manage our precious resources for this generation and the ones to come.

ROOMS & BLOOMS: All Things That Grow

Thu, 26 Mar 2009 11:48:32 +0100

ROOMS & BLOOMS, which was most recently located at the Kohl’s Shopping Center on McBean Parkway and Valencia Boulevard, has moved to a new location on Lyons Avenue. Inside the new ROOMS & BLOOMS guests are invited to take a freshly brewed cup of coffee or tea to the long flower-lined porch or enjoy it while browsing the shop’s wide assortment of gifts for home, garden and baby.

Spring has Sprung! Time to Clean Up and Organize Your Mac!

Thu, 26 Mar 2009 11:47:19 +0100

Well with the recent temperatures I am sure that we all can agree that spring has officially sprung! The flowers are blooming and all of this energy gives us a chance to start with our “spring cleaning.” This year however, I decided that it was time to take a different approach and clean up and organize my new Mac! I recently upgraded my Mac laptop and in doing so realized that I faced some issues.

Not All Glass is Created Equal A Proper Choice Makes All the Difference in Framing

Thu, 26 Mar 2009 11:45:50 +0100

Believe it or not, the glass you choose for your framed piece is as important as the frame itself. The glass, or glazing, can add considerably to the enjoyment of your piece, and more importantly, to the life of whatever you’re framing. So, how do you pick the right frame for your framing project? Consider the following points.

Enjoy Artistic Endeavors

Thu, 26 Mar 2009 11:44:58 +0100

With all the negative news day after day and the drone of “the economy is falling apart,” why not take in some good art galleries and museum breaks as well as some fantastic “music breaks,” by going to choice concerts, or just listening to your favorite group on CD, or visiting us at B&R Gallery & Custom Framing, and having us design a beautiful preservation “shadow box” of your favorite event, and/or memories. With all the horrible press an ...

It's That Time Again

Thu, 26 Mar 2009 11:43:48 +0100

I’ll be leaving late April on my spring diamond “buying trip” to Antwerp Belgium, the diamond buying capital of the World. As you might know I travel to Antwerp twice a year, 15 years in a row now, to buy diamonds from DeBeers sightholders. Only 60 percent of all uncut diamonds are cut and polished there. Several of my preferred customers have asked me to be their “personal broker” and buy them a diamond for the one they love.

Meet the Merchants of The Old Road

Fri, 27 Feb 2009 05:01:23 +0100

Meet the Merchants of Newhall Ranch Road

Fri, 27 Feb 2009 05:00:07 +0100

Aquamarine Ã¢ÂÂ Sparkle Like the Sea

Tue, 24 Feb 2009 14:07:48 +0100

Aquamarine is the official birthstone for March and is also the birthstone for the zodiac sign of Scorpio. This vibrant light blue gemstone is a member of the beryl family, a mineral that crystallizes within rocks on the earth’s crust.

Apple iLife and iWork Software Suites Just Got Sweeter

Tue, 24 Feb 2009 14:07:14 +0100

iPhoto ’09 — Organize photos two new ways: Faces, based on who’s in your photos, and Places, based on where your photos were taken. Then share on Facebook or Flickr with a click.

Want to Relax? Get a Saltwater Aquarium

Tue, 24 Feb 2009 14:06:15 +0100

I remember when I was a kid visiting my grandfather was one of my favorite times. My grandfather had a salt water tank full of wonderful little creatures. Every evening on weekends, he would sit down in front of his tank with a glass of wine and just stare at it.

Limited Edition Bev Doolittle GiclÃÂ©e Prints Available Soon

Tue, 24 Feb 2009 14:05:15 +0100

Several years ago, Bev Doolittle rode off into the sunset leaving behind a legacy of imagination and sensitivity to living things that touched the hearts of thousands upon thousands of fans. A part of that legacy is a collection of original works that many have never seen.

Support the U.S. Economy

Tue, 24 Feb 2009 14:04:15 +0100

U.S. retail sales of candles are estimated to be over $2 billion annually. Candles are used in seven of 10 U.S. households. Consumers are increasingly purchasing candles as a focal point for their home décor, and for aromatherapy-like relaxation and stress reduction — something we all need during these trying times!

Tackling Tough Spaces: Selecting and Hanging Art for Stairwells

Tue, 24 Feb 2009 14:02:28 +0100

When it comes to hanging art, it’s been said, “Where there’s a wall, there’s a way.” This especially rings true in tricky spaces like stairwells. With limited and awkward space, this section of the home isn’t as easy to decorate as a living room or bedroom. But, that’s not to say it can’t be done, and done nicely.

Love Still Shines, Despite Hard Times

Tue, 24 Feb 2009 14:01:53 +0100

The members of the Independent Jewelers Organization (IJO) have banded together to bring joy on this Valentine’s Day to people who are struggling due to the loss of a job, or their home. Classic Designs Jewelry in Valencia has joined with many fellow master IJO Jeweler retail members, and offered to provide a sterling silver heart necklace to about 100 deserving individuals – for free.

Feel Beautiful Ã¢ÂÂ Feel Empowered Express Your Sensuality

Tue, 24 Feb 2009 14:01:05 +0100

The business of photographing women in their sensual form has historically been controversial. What is it that muddies the waters and fogs our understanding of the beauty of being sensual and flirtatious? It has been suggested that between cultural and familial messages compounded with media and social exploitation stereotypes of the female form, expressing one’s sensual beauty through boudoir photography is taboo. However, consider the art of flirtation.

Valentine Gift Guide!

Tue, 27 Jan 2009 02:40:06 +0100

This is the Valentine's Gift Guide! Take a look!

Oh Baby!

Mon, 26 Jan 2009 14:48:22 +0100

On December 9, 2008 proud parents Neil and Nicole Waldron along with big brother Nicholas welcomed a beautiful baby girl into the world. Danika Allyne Waldron was born weighing eight pounds nine ounces. Please join The Magazine of Santa Clarita in welcoming Danika to the Santa Clarita Valley.

Say "I Love You" With a Singing Valentine and Leave Your Sweetheart Speechless

Mon, 26 Jan 2009 14:47:25 +0100

Sure cards, candy and roses are a classic Valentine gift-giving favorite, but let’s try to be a little more creative this year. Why not say, “I love you” with a singing Valentine and leave your sweetheart speechless? Nothing tells someone, “I love you” like a Singing Valentine. Santa Clarita Valley’s own Men of Harmony Barbershop Quartet will serenade your sweetheart at home, at work or anywhere you choose in the Santa Clarita Valley. &n ...

Get The Most Out of Your Photography

Mon, 26 Jan 2009 14:45:34 +0100

You don’t have to be a professional photographer to take great pictures and you don’t have to have an expensive camera to capture beautiful images! You just need a little know how, the willingness to experiment and the drive to get out there with your camera and take pictures! Here at Timbuktu Studios we encourage all levels of photographers, whether you are a hobbyist, an amateur or a professional to pick up those cameras and take some pictures. And here are a few ...

Making A Difference

Mon, 26 Jan 2009 14:41:39 +0100

In late December of 2008 Jill Quinn and fellow cheerleaders from Valencia High School joined together and collected tons of toys for the Department of Child and Family Services.

Ten Welcomed Valentine's Day Gifts for Lovers

Mon, 26 Jan 2009 14:40:28 +0100

Could you use a few tried and true gift suggestions this Valentine’s Day? Don’t worry, here are great suggestions for creative Valentine’s Day gifts that are sure to impress and surprise.

SCV Senior Center 2008-09 Annual Campaign Up-date Ten Bucks to a Better Future

Mon, 26 Jan 2009 14:39:36 +0100

The SCV Senior Center Annual Campaign, “Ten Bucks to a Better Future,” which runs from December 1 to February 28 each year, asks all Santa Clarita Valley residents to contribute $10 yearly for the SCV Senior Center to assure that services will be available to meet the community’s future needs as the Baby Boomer population ages and needs assistance. The Annual Campaign is designed to fill in the gaps, so to speak, from other major fundraisers such as the annual Celebrity W ...

How to Surprise Your Lover on Valentine's

Mon, 26 Jan 2009 14:38:29 +0100

On this February 14, celebrate the lovely bond of togetherness and deep affection by giving something special. Choose a gift that would speak volumes about your intense feelings to your beloved, something that would touch the heart and express your love in the most beautiful form.

Valentine's Day Candlelight Ideas

Mon, 26 Jan 2009 14:35:37 +0100

Candles are the easiest way to create instant romance. The music can be perfect and the food delicious, but if the bright lights are on, the feeling is instantly less magical and romantic.

Enjoy the Most Incredible Art Show and Sale at the Autry National Center

Mon, 26 Jan 2009 14:34:50 +0100

We are extremely fortunate to live here in Southern California - with the weather, the opportunities to go skiing in the winter and to even enjoy the coastline the next day, and all the cultural and ethnic events that our communities have to offer. Coming up here in February is a combined educational venue, museum showing and art sale that should not to be missed.

Feel Beautiful - Feel Empowered Red, The Color of Passion

Mon, 26 Jan 2009 14:34:11 +0100

Red has long been a symbol of eternal love and romance. Carrying more meaning than any other color on the spectrum, red is the color of energy, life, love and passion. That is why red roses, red lipsticks, red panties, red garter belts, red satin robes, and gifts wrapped in red play a governing role on Valentine’s Day. Red communicates your passion towards your special someone and towards life itself.

Is Your Color Purple?

Mon, 26 Jan 2009 14:32:53 +0100

Amethyst is the official birthstone for February. It is also the birthstone for the zodiac sign of Pisces. This beautiful purple gemstone is a member of the quartz family occurring naturally as crystals form within rocks.

Happy New Year from Mac Talk Valencia

Mon, 26 Jan 2009 14:31:24 +0100

Mac Talk is here to help you cross off that resolution on your list and help you get to know your Mac. Just after ringing in the New Year, Apple announced a slew of new software bundles for you to cut your teeth on. As of this January you can get your hands on iLife ’09 and iWork ’09. It’s a great time to make the switch from that dusty old PC to a shiny new Mac.

See It Before You Buy It Technology Takes the Guesswork out of Custom Framing

Mon, 26 Jan 2009 14:30:02 +0100

Custom framing is a very creative activity, and some people have difficulty imagining what the final piece will look like. If you’ve ever had something custom framed you know that the design process includes placing a corner sample of a frame and a corner sample of a mat (the colored border) on the corner of your artwork.

Finding the Perfect Fit

Mon, 26 Jan 2009 14:29:12 +0100

Many are so pleased with her services, and some even shout with joy from the dressing room because they finally have a bra that fits! Who is this expert bra fitter? She’s Sharon Dallas, owner of Naughty But Nice Lingerie. Sharon is the the “virtual professor” in the art of making woman feel great has been fitting loyal, soon to be “beautified” customers for over 19 years.

Oh Baby!

Mon, 22 Dec 2008 13:58:15 +0100

On November 3, 2008 proud parents Jon and Kerin Sudtell along with big brother Kevin welcomed a beautiful baby girl into the world.

Oh Baby!

Mon, 22 Dec 2008 13:57:48 +0100

On August 22, 2008 proud parents Conrad and Katie Fenner along with big brother Colin welcomed a handsome baby boy into the world.

Happy New Year! Out With The Old! In With The New!

Mon, 22 Dec 2008 13:57:12 +0100

The New Year is here. With it comes hope, and a desire for renewal. That is a little difficult when your home still has the fallen pine needles scattered around and there is leftover decorations and open presents in the family room. What to do?
Get a fresh start.

Lunch and Learn Seminars Embarks on Fourth Year

Mon, 22 Dec 2008 13:56:26 +0100

In 2006 Tera McHugh, Founder of Association of Women Entrepreneurs (A of WE), came to a Betty Ferguson Foundation (BFF) women’s meeting, Mes Amies, and then met with them afterwards with an idea about having a daytime monthly meeting primarily geared towards working women. Lunch and Learn Seminars was born.

Treasure Your Memories at FASTFRAME

Mon, 22 Dec 2008 13:55:14 +0100

Owners Randy Burzynski and Rose-Marie Longan are excited to create and build a family-based business that will allow them to become more involved and give back to their community. “We live and have been active members in the SCV for over fifteen years.

Henry Mayo's One-Stop Holiday Home Tour & Gala A Festive Success

Mon, 22 Dec 2008 13:52:33 +0100

The 10,000 square foot Sand Canyon estate of Wayne and Dianne Crawford was transformed into a holiday wonderland during the 28th Annual Henry Mayo Holiday Home Tour Gala on Friday, December 5, 2008.

Custom Framing Your Art and Collectibles for Show and Preservation

Mon, 22 Dec 2008 13:43:36 +0100

It is important to correctly frame your collectibles using current conservation techniques, which will display them aesthetically as well as preserve their beauty and value. A professional picture framer who knows his or her business will be able to help you select the correct color combinations and pick out the appropriate custom framing that will really set off and enhance your personal treasures.

MacTalk University Ã¢ÂÂ New Semester The Mac Fanatic

Mon, 22 Dec 2008 13:42:40 +0100

How does it happen that someone becomes a fanatic? You know what I mean, it’s when you can only talk about that thing, and it’s all you can think about. It must be like that chemical reaction that happens when you are in love or at least very infatuated. Obsession rules the day. You go out of your way to be involved with it, to know all there is to know about it.

Feel Beautiful - Feel Empowered The Secret

Mon, 22 Dec 2008 13:42:02 +0100

In the last year my life collapsed around me. I’d worked myself into exhaustion, my mother died, and my relationships with loved ones were in turmoil. Little did I know at the time, out of my greatest despair was to come my greatest growth. Unbeknown to me these words paralleled the words of Rhonda Byrne. To help you with your New Year resolutions here are a few inspirational affirmations as stated in her book, The Secret that helped me redirect my life; in hopes th ...

How to Set a Beautiful Nano Reef Aquarium

Mon, 22 Dec 2008 13:40:14 +0100

Remember that corals are the stars of a nano reef aquariums, but live rock sets the stage for dramatic displays. Start by arranging the live rock in visually interesting layouts. Not just conventional layouts but make sure that all the live rock is piled towards the back of the aquarium.

Success is in the Staff

Tue, 25 Nov 2008 11:31:32 +0100

I decided to dedicate this year’s editorial to my staff. I often have customers question me why our store is so successful? My answer is simple and always the same. I fell our staff is the reason for our success! We have such a group of dedicated and talented individuals. Marian our stamping teacher came with years of experience in the crafting field. Her classes are always full of surprises and she often has sell outs. Her dedication and loya ...

Continuing Great Service At S and W Automotive and Cycle

Tue, 25 Nov 2008 11:29:17 +0100

While S and W Automotive and Cycle may have changed locations, their quality service at reasonable prices has certainly remained. At S and W, they offer vehicle and motorcycle service and repair, along with a full line of motorcycle parts and accessories. From custom Dyno tuning and maintenance, to pick up and delivery for motorcycles, S and W Automotive and Cycle is committed to meeting your every need.

Find the Perfect Gift at Prince of Jewelers

Tue, 25 Nov 2008 11:13:33 +0100

This holiday season give the gift of jewelry, and let the professionals at Prince of Jewelers help you find just what you’re looking for. At Prince of Jewelers, you’ll find a large selection of hand crafted specialty pieces with individual style and unique details. With over 22 years in the jewelry business, and serving the Santa Clarita for over six years, their knowledgeable staff guarantees customer satisfaction. Prince of Jewelers is honored to have been voted t ...

Frequently Asked Questions

Tue, 25 Nov 2008 11:11:00 +0100

What are limited edition prints and canvases? High quality reproductions approved and signed by the artist. Only a limited number are printed in an edition, which gives them value as a collectible.

Making Your Holidays Special With Photographs

Tue, 25 Nov 2008 11:09:47 +0100

Christmas is just around the corner. And what better way to celebrate this season than with pictures! Pictures bring families together, make people laugh, preserve memories, make great gifts and are a great way to say thank you. At Timbuktu Studios we are committed to teaching people like you how to get the most out of your cameras and images through one-on-one personal training and our professional workshops. We believe in the power of images! So we have compiled a ...

The Season of Giving

Tue, 25 Nov 2008 11:08:27 +0100

The holiday season is a time of year when we need to remember those who are in need. The gift of giving can enhance the lives of those who are less fortunate. Ro,Ma Jewelry would like to invite the community to participate in our first annual Toy Drive.

Apple Means Business

Tue, 25 Nov 2008 11:07:31 +0100

A Mac is far more versatile than you may realize. Macs have always been the industry standard when it comes to creative applications and hardware. Luckily for you, your Mac has grown up and started to wear a tie. Macs are just as flexible and powerful for business purposes as a PC. From Quicken to Quickbooks, MacFreelance to LightSpeed POS, your Mac has some serious professional clout.

Feel Beautiful - Feel Empowered

Tue, 25 Nov 2008 11:07:01 +0100

This holiday season, as you ponder what special and unique gift to give that special man in your life that has everything — here is an idea that will wow, impress and shock the pants off him — no pun intended. Consider intimate sensual portraits of yourself! With a great photographer, one that understands how a woman wants to be portrayed and one that understands the technical aspects of great lighting, composition and a mastery of Photoshop you can’t go wrong.&nbs ...

Photography Exhibit Ã¢ÂÂWith Eyes Wide OpenÃ¢ÂÂ to be featured at CTG

Tue, 25 Nov 2008 11:06:08 +0100

“With Eyes Wide Open” will feature over 30 color photographs by local award winning photographer Sandy Fisher. After a second bout with cancer, Sandy decided to answer the creative muse that had been calling her since she was young and focused her efforts on photography and painting. With the same positive spirit that helped her battle cancer, she views life and the world as being full of breathtaking joy and beauty if one is really present in the moment and takes the tim ...

Why is Lighting Important for Aquariums?

Tue, 25 Nov 2008 11:04:40 +0100

Proper aquarium lighting supplements vital energy to photosynthetic plants and animals. As the primary light source and in most cases, the only light source, proper aquarium lighting is essential for any system that contains photosynthetic organisms such as anemones, plants and corals. Good lighting also influences fish behavior and is vital for the overall health and well-being of the entire aquarium. There are different types of light bulbs for different types ...

Quality and Sociability at Smoke Zone

Tue, 25 Nov 2008 11:03:53 +0100

If you happen to walk through the Valencia Marketplace you can see an outside table filled with people socializing, smiling and having a good old time. That table sits just outside the Smoke Zone, a tobacco retailer that not only provides the finest tobacco products and essentials, but a social environment for people to gather and make longstanding relationships. “If you visit the Smoke Zone, expect to make friends. It is a highly sociable environment where you will meet ...

"Scents" for the Season

Tue, 25 Nov 2008 11:03:10 +0100

The holidays are here! Put all the negative energy away and enjoy this special time with family and friends. It only comes once a year, and now more than ever we need the comfort and joy of the season.

Diamonds, Diamonds, Diamonds

Mon, 27 Oct 2008 12:19:31 +0100

Over the centuries a diamond acquired its unique status as the ultimate gift of love. Since the beginning of time, diamonds have always been associated with romance and legend. The word diamond comes from the Greek “Adamas” meaning unconquerable, suggesting the eternity of love. The Greeks also believed the fire in the diamond reflected the constant flame of love.

Support Your Community by Shopping Local First Stop McKenna & Greene Gift Boutique

Mon, 27 Oct 2008 12:18:27 +0100

Shopping local keeps much needed tax dollars in our area and that’s good for everyone. But, shopping local isn’t just about frequenting big box chains within your zip code, it’s making a point of seeking out small stores owned by people who live in your community.

A One Stop Shop: Fast-Fix Jewelry and Watch Repairs

Mon, 27 Oct 2008 12:17:45 +0100

Have your special keepsakes repaired by skilled jewelers and craftsmen at Fast-Fix Jewelry and Watch Repairs. Fast-Fix provides services such as jewelry repair, watch repair, watch batteries and replacement, pearl stringing, clasp replacement, jewelry cleaning, watchbands, wedding rings, ring sizing, stone settings, eyeglass repair, stone replacement, engraving services and much more!

Halloween is Scary Ã¢ÂÂ Switching to a Mac is Not!

Mon, 27 Oct 2008 12:16:31 +0100

Halloween can be a scary time with all of the ghosts and ghouls running about. Most people get shivers down their spine when they start having problems with their computers.

A Safe Investment

Mon, 27 Oct 2008 12:15:42 +0100

Now is an opportune time to purchase assets, such as gold and diamonds. History has proven that these items never drop in value and are not as volatile as some other investments. At Ro,Ma Jewelers we will do our best to give you the lowest price for your lifelong purchase. Furthermore, the time is right to take advantage of our Wells Fargo financing.

Christmas Wish List

Mon, 27 Oct 2008 12:14:52 +0100

With Christmas right around the corner, you are probably wondering what would be the perfect gift for that perfect someone in your life. Timbuktu Studios has put together a list of goodies that would make any picture taking fanatic sing at Christmas time. 1. Get that special someone a new camera. Some of our personal favorites from the Point and Shoot Cameras would be The Nikon Coolpix Series. Some of the features are 10.0 mega pixels, amazing telephoto capabilities, several c ...

Feel Beautiful and Feel Empowered Even if YouÃ¢ÂÂre StinkinÃ¢ÂÂ Sexy

Mon, 27 Oct 2008 12:13:21 +0100

On September 28, I had the pleasure of participating with a group of outstanding women from the Soroptimist International of Santa Clarita Valley in their combined Bras for a Cause and Fashion Show fundraiser, Stinkin Sexy Event at the beautiful Mountain Gate Country Club in Beverly Hills. The efforts of this event will assist women and girls in the Santa Clarita Valley who are in need of some assistance. The Soroptomist of Santa Clarita Valley assists through local agencies such as: ...

Unique Gifts Make Holidays Extra Exciting

Mon, 27 Oct 2008 12:10:57 +0100

Start your holiday shopping early. Have fun with your family and be the envy of the neighborhood with the most original toys on the block. One of the newest items is the new micro helicopter called the Blade MCX; similar to one that is seen on TV. The difference is this helicopter is full functioning with replacement parts, starting at $129, ready to run. You can also find a large array of new and used remote control streetcars, off road cars ...

Capture the Moment with Grins 2 GoÃÂ® Event and Portrait Photography

Mon, 27 Oct 2008 12:09:35 +0100

Cherish the moments and capture the memories with Grins 2 Go® Event and Portrait Photography! From special events to holiday parties, let the professionals meet your photography needs.

Continuing Great Service at Jewelry World

Mon, 27 Oct 2008 12:09:16 +0100

For the last 25 years, Jewelry World has been serving the Santa Clarita Valley. Now under new ownership, they are committed to providing us with the same great products and services. “We proudly introduce ourselves as the new owners of this fine establishment. We would like to thank Jack and Ginger for the opportunity to become their successors after their retirement,” states Jack and Ani. “We have been in the jewelry business for over 35 years, specializing in cust ...

Have you Ever Wished for a Beautiful Salt Water Aquarium at Home?

Mon, 27 Oct 2008 12:07:36 +0100

This is possible; if you have the right coaching before you choose which type of aquarium you want. This includes planning it right, knowing the size of the tank, choosing the proper location in your home and acquiring the proper things for the perfect set up. Saltwater aquariums can be grouped into three basic types; fish-only aquariums, fish only with live rock aquariums, and reef aquariums.

The Four C's of Diamonds Cut, Color, Clarity and Carats

Mon, 22 Sep 2008 16:34:13 +0100

The Cut — Many people confuse cut with the shape of a diamond. The shape you select is a matter of individual taste. Through the skills and imagination of our craftsman, your choices are unlimited. It is their efforts, during every stage of the faceting process that reflects the maximum amount of light back to the eye. Most round, brilliant-cut or fancy-shaped diamonds possess 58 carefully angled flat surfaces called facets. It is the precision of each facet&r ...

Feel Beautiful Feel Empowered Through Intimate Portraits

Mon, 22 Sep 2008 16:32:33 +0100

As a woman with a high regard for women feeling assured and confident about themselves, I have discovered that intimate portraits of women have been a way for women to build confidence and self realization. As I exclusively photograph women, I have come to recognize that this genre of photography is gratifying to me as an artist but also to my clients. It is exciting for me to be a part of a woman’s transformation from soccer mom to pin up model; but most of all to validate wom ...

Illuminate Your Halloween Festivities!

Mon, 22 Sep 2008 16:31:51 +0100

Fall has arrived in Santa Clarita. Our days are a “cool” 95 degrees and the nights a “chilly” 60 degrees. Not exactly weather you would get in the Northwest or New England, but we gauge the arrival of fall in our valley with how long our windows can stay open in the morning!

Not a Computer Guru?

Mon, 22 Sep 2008 16:31:01 +0100

So you’re not a computer person are you? You mean to tell me you don’t go home at night and start writing code for a new, groundbreaking program, or crack open the case and start moving wires and confusing looking circuit boards around to make your home computer smoking fast?

News from the S.C.V- Newhall Optimist Club

Mon, 22 Sep 2008 16:28:34 +0100

School is back and we are so happy to report that plans for two new Octagon clubs are in the works at Canyon High School and Valencia High School. By the time this article reaches your home next month both clubs should have been chartered and the members ready to meet the needs of the youth in our community along with our club their sponsor. We wish them good luck and will report their progress back to you in the up and coming months.

Hauntingly Good Times

Mon, 22 Sep 2008 16:26:18 +0100

Halloween is a great time to throw parties, and theme parties are a great way to make a night memorable. A masquerade is a chance for your guests to dress as elaborately as possible without feeling silly. Set the mood by setting candles throughout the venue to set mood lighting.

Digital Scrapbooking

Mon, 22 Sep 2008 16:25:49 +0100

Why digital scrapbooking? Why not! Have you ever wanted to create your own papers or wondered if you could use your own photos to create your own unique papers for your scrapbook? Well you can. Digital scrapbooking opens up a whole new world of possibilities that will make your book unique.

After Summer Ideas

Fri, 22 Aug 2008 14:40:38 +0100

With school back in season, having the kids gone all day gives you the time to get those chores done that were neglected all summer. A big issue a lot of homes have is organization. Start by going through all your clutter and getting rid of anything you don’t need. Chances are if you haven’t used it in the past year, it’s a safe bet that you won’t miss it later on. You can get rid of your discarded treasures by donating them to a reputable charity ...

Brightening Your Day With 1-800-Sunflorist.com

Fri, 22 Aug 2008 14:37:50 +0100

For 21 years, 1-800-Sunflorist.com has been servicing the Santa Clarita Valley, brightening your days with their beautiful floral arrangements. Located on the corner of Soledad and Sierra Highway in Canyon Country, Sunflorist is a full service florist worldwide, creating and delivering beautiful gifts for everyone to enjoy.

So I Got a New Digital Camera, Now What?

Fri, 22 Aug 2008 14:36:47 +0100

So you recently bought a digital camera. Spent the right kind of money, got the right mega pixels (whatever that means) and all the fancy bells and whistles, why can’t you get a decent picture from the darn thing. The ads promise that you can turn it on and with a click of a button you will have the perfect picture. While that is all well and good, you should remember that 30-second television spots are not used to tell you that there are a few things you have to do befor ...

The Hidden Universes of B&R Gallery

Fri, 22 Aug 2008 14:35:49 +0100

Here at B&R Gallery and Framing in Canyon Country we actually have several activities and services going on simultaneously. Some of these may have not have been suspected. You can see the obvious ones when you visit our 6,000-square foot gallery. Walking into the gallery, you will see that the walls are covered with beautifully framed works of art for sale and for viewing. Yes, we sell a wide variety of originals and reproductions and sculpture to our local customers ...

An Apple a Day

Fri, 22 Aug 2008 14:33:48 +0100

“An apple a day and keeps the doctor away.” In the world of Apple computers that age-old saying also holds true. Macintosh proudly advertises its computers as being “free of viruses” and that statement has converted PC users to Macs time after time. However, if you are still not convinced that Mac is the way to go, come in and see for yourself. In the Santa Clarita area, there is one place to go for all of your Mac needs. Mac Talk, with over ...

Beat the Pinch By Making Easy Money at the SwapMeet!

Fri, 22 Aug 2008 14:32:43 +0100

Many of you are feeling the effects of the troubled economy. Everyone has seen the value of their hard-earned dollar shrink with increase in prices. But the Saugus SwapMeet can offer you a solution to making extra money on stuff you have gathering dust around the house!

Fall is in the Air!

Fri, 22 Aug 2008 14:31:43 +0100

The kids are back in school. Everyone is home from summer vacation. The Farmers market is selling apples again. In the beautiful Santa Clarita Valley where we live, it is a little difficult to see the changing of the seasons and the leaves changing colors.

Feel Beautiful - Feel Empowered

Fri, 22 Aug 2008 14:30:41 +0100

In 1913, Webster’s dictionary defined beauty as “properties pleasing the eye, the ear, the intellect, the aesthetic faculty or the moral sense.” But in recent years, the default definition of beauty has shriveled pitifully. The contributions of the ear, the intellect, the broader aesthetic faculty or the moral sensibilities are gone.

The Extraordinary Faces of Boudoir Photography

Tue, 29 Jul 2008 14:38:42 +0100

What type of women take boudoir portraits? All are sensual women. In the last few months I have photographed nudes of extraordinary, real women. Real women who may have imperfect body images or have journeyed through life with a few battle wounds (physically and emotionally) such as breast cancer, cosmetic surgical scars as a result of losing 150 pounds, lives lived with feeding tubes, divorce, mental abuse, bombarded by negative stereotypes about body image, etc.

Show Off Your Pictures

Tue, 29 Jul 2008 14:37:11 +0100

Now that summer is coming to a close you will have a lot of pictures from your vacations. While buying frames for all of them can get cluttered and expensive, using a French bulletin board can be a fun project to show off pictures.
Here’s what you need to start:

Oh Baby!-August 2008

Tue, 29 Jul 2008 14:36:11 +0100

On February 22 of this year, proud parents Pat and Tammy Butler welcomed a beautiful baby boy into the world. Thomas Allen Butler II was born weighing seven pounds 10 ounces. Please join The Magazine of Santa Clarita in welcoming Thomas to the Santa Clarita Valley.

Helping Out in Honduras

Tue, 29 Jul 2008 14:35:05 +0100

Last June, Paul “P.J.” Sweigart, 2006 graduate of Saugus High School, had the opportunity to travel to Honduras with a group of 40 students and medical professionals volunteering with the Global Medical Brigade to provide medical help for people who have no means of obtaining medical services.

Composing a Great Photograph

Tue, 29 Jul 2008 14:34:05 +0100

Summer is here and that means tons of photographs. Most experts would agree that above exposure and lighting, composition is the most important component that can make or break a photograph. Timbuktu Studios has a few tips on how to get good composition in your photographs that will have people raving over them.

Fun with Dune Buggies and Airplanes

Tue, 29 Jul 2008 14:31:36 +0100

What are you going to do in your spare time on your vacation? Here are a couple of ways to have fun with your family and friends.

Candle Safety and Burning Tips

Tue, 29 Jul 2008 14:30:26 +0100

Fall is right around the corner, and the use of candles increases during this time of the year. Be safe and get the most use out of your candles by following these valuable tips:

High School Senior Portraits

Fri, 27 Jun 2008 12:04:30 +0100

It’s that time of year again. 2009 senior portraits will be taken over the summer months to meet your school’s yearbook deadline. While seniors are required to have their yearbook picture taken by their school’s contract photographer, what many parents and seniors don’t ...

Got Art? Why Art?

Fri, 27 Jun 2008 12:01:29 +0100

Through the years we have worked with many satisfied customers who we have helped add art to their homes and lives. What effect, exactly, does acquiring professionally framed art produce? Here are a few quotes from some of our art friends: “I just want you to know that I have received two of the four Howard Terpning prints — the ones received are “Protectors of the Cheyenne People” and “Long Trail Ahead.” They are both beautiful, and I th ...

Fun in the Sun with Boudoir Photography

Fri, 27 Jun 2008 11:58:39 +0100

Frolicking in the sun and tossing your hair into the wind isn’t just for the sexy models in magazines. It’s for the everyday woman that feels beautiful, flirtatious and confident while playfully posing for the camera, capturing her sensual and confident spark, and captivating the a ...

Vacation at Home this Summer!

Fri, 27 Jun 2008 11:56:20 +0100

Watching the prices of gas going up daily, and trying to decide where to go or not go for a vacation this summer? Experiencing sticker shock at the grocery store? Kids home from college? Air-conditioning bills increasing earlier than usual? What to do?

Valencia Time Center: Advertising for the Future

Fri, 27 Jun 2008 11:53:07 +0100

Valencia Time Center has always been at the forefront leader in watch sales, repair and customer service in the Santa Clarita Valley. It is no wonder that every year there are changes we strive to make in order to help the company grow and better suit each of our customers. There have been lots ...

Summer-fun Photo Projects for Kids

Fri, 27 Jun 2008 11:35:24 +0100

Summer is here and once again parents are faced with the task of finding fun things to do for their kids. If your children love taking pictures Timbuktu Studios has a few ideas that we think would be fun and fairly inexpensive. Here are our top five favorite kid photo projects for the summer.

Attention Silent Comedy Fans! Classic Silent Short films Coming to "Friday Night Flickers"

Wed, 28 May 2008 10:49:22 +0100

The Santa Clarita Valley Historical Society is proud to present a series of short silent comedies featuring Buster Keaton, Fatty Arbuckle, and the Keystone Cops on Friday, June 6, 2008 at 7:30 p.m. The films will be shown in the historic Saugus Train Station in Heritage Junction, Newhall, and will feature live accompaniment by 95-year-old Bob Mitchell, the last of the silent era pianists. The lineup for the evening includes Arbuckle & Keaton’s The Bellboy (1918), Keaton&rsq ...

The SCAA Features Artist Pong Apinyavat

Wed, 28 May 2008 10:48:13 +0100

The Santa Clarita Artists’ Association (SCAA) will feature Plein Air watercolorist Pong Apinyavat, one of today’s foremost painters of the California coastline, at the monthly meeting on June 16, 2008 at 7 p.m.

B&R Gallery Makes Art Donation to Michael Hoefflin Foundation

Wed, 28 May 2008 10:45:33 +0100

Dave Joseph has surrounded himself with beauty and together with his wife, Barbara; he has shared some of that beauty to assist the Michael Hoefflin Foundation for Children’s Cancer through a donation of almost $100,000 worth of artwork. Dave and Barbara Joseph, owners of the B&R Gallery on Sierra Highway, have been avid supporters of the foundation since 2001, attending fundraising events and donating items for auction. “It’s a nice organization that helps fami ...

Reed Diffusers are the Perfect Summer Fragrancing Solution!

Wed, 28 May 2008 10:42:05 +0100

With the days getting warmer, a popular alternative to scented candles are the fast growing reed diffuser category. What is a reed diffuser? First and foremost, you don’t light it like a candle! Reed diffusers are a method of distributing scented oil throughout an environment, either home, office or wherever fragrance is desired, which is almost everywhere!

Art and Literature

Wed, 28 May 2008 10:38:11 +0100

Viewing good art could be compared to reading a good book. It is very entertaining and it can immerse you in something very interesting and fun. Finding an art gallery that can provide that fun and interest is important to someone who would like to learn more about different artists and styles of art. A good way to discover what galleries are in your general area is to do a Google search on the Internet and put in the search engine, “Art Gallery” and “Santa Clarita& ...

Bring Sexy Back with the Art of Classic Flirtation

Wed, 28 May 2008 10:37:32 +0100

The business of photographing women in their sensual form has historically been controversial. What is it that muddies the waters and fogs our understanding of the beauty of being sensual and flirtatious? It has been suggested that between cultural and familial messages compounded with media and social exploitation stereotypes of the female form expressing one’s sensual beauty through boudoir photography is taboo. However, consider the art of flirtation. We must not ...

News from the S.C.V. - Newhall Optimist Club

Wed, 28 May 2008 10:36:47 +0100

If you were looking for our article in last month’s publication and couldn’t find it, I apologize, but I had just gotten home from the hospital and was recuperating. I want to thank the many people out there, Optimists and non-Optimists who called, sent cards and flowers; it was very thoughtful and very much appreciated. Once again, as I have done in the past I ask everyone out there to keep my husband Mike in your prayers, as his cancer has returned and he is undergoing ...

Kids Helping Kids: A Volunteer Project Kids Love

Wed, 28 May 2008 10:36:01 +0100

Mahatma Gandhi once said, “Consciously or unconsciously, every one of us does render some service or other. If we cultivate the habit of doing this service deliberately, our desire for service will steadily grow stronger, and will make not only for our own happiness, but that of the world at large.”

Zonta Club of Santa Clarita Valley

Wed, 28 May 2008 10:34:58 +0100

Zontian Judy Penman received the 2008 Woman of the Year award at the yearly Santa Clarita Man and Woman of the Year event held at the Hyatt on May 2. In addition to recognition as “the Boys and Girls Club outstanding 2007 volunteer of the year”, Judy is committed to the following organizations and causes: the American Association of University Women, American Heart Association, Circle of Hope, City of Santa Clarita, COC Performing Arts Center, Domestic Violence Center, and Henr ...

June Brides

Wed, 28 May 2008 10:34:10 +0100

With June right around the corner, more and more people take advantage of the warm weather to hold their dream wedding. While the stress of ensuring that everything from the dress to the cake to the honeymoon is perfect, you can still find the time to create your own wedding creations to personalize your special day.

A Blessed Gift

Wed, 28 May 2008 10:33:32 +0100

On April 16 of this year, proud parents Christopher and Elise Ingram, along with big sister Taylor Ashlee, welcomed a gorgeous little boy into the world.

Gift Guide for Father's Day

Wed, 28 May 2008 10:32:47 +0100

Father’s Day is coming up. Do you have that perfect gift for the creative man in your life? Timbuktu Studios is here to make some suggestions that might make shopping a little easier for you ladies this year.

Revving Up at RTR Hobby

Wed, 28 May 2008 10:31:44 +0100

For all you racing enthusiasts, there’s a new local hobby shop that carries all your RC hobby needs. Conveniently located in Saugus, RTR Hobby has it all. From boats to helicopters, their prices are affordable, and with Father’s Day just around the corner, what better way to spoil dad than with a new “toy”?

Veteran's Historical Plaza's Mascot Gets a New Pair of Sticks!

Tue, 29 Apr 2008 17:21:06 +0100

William J. Johnston ca. 1850, aka “Willie the Drummer Boy” Willie was born in 1850, and during the Civil War in 1861, left home to be by his father’s side and serve as a musician in Vermont’s third Infantry, Company D. At the tender young age of 13, Willie was the seventh person and still the youngest ever, to receive the Congressional Medal of Honor. Willie’s citation read in part: “It was during a disastrous retreat after seven days of fightin ...

Mary EllenÃ¢ÂÂs Tea Party

Tue, 29 Apr 2008 17:18:46 +0100

It’s teatime again at the William S. Hart Museum and Park and you won’t want to miss this truly eventful tea party on Saturday May 17. Located in the Hart Hall, the friends of Hart Park have arranged their second annual Mary Ellen’s Tea Party.

A General Lee Replica Has Been Speeding Through Our County

Tue, 29 Apr 2008 17:17:21 +0100

A fully loaded 1969 Dodge Charger that replicates the infamous General Lee has been cruising on the streets of Santa Clarita, there’s just one problem – it’s not jumping the rural dirt roads in Hazzard to speed away from persevering cops hot on the General’s trail.

Join the Fun at Moms Club Open House

Tue, 29 Apr 2008 17:15:51 +0100

Are you a stay-at-home mom looking for creative ways to get you and your little darlings out of the house? Do you crave social interaction for you and your child? Well, you aren’t alone. The Moms Club of Canyon Country North just might be the answer you’ve been looking for. The Moms Club (Mothers Offering Mothers Support) local chapter will be hosting a free open house on Friday May 16 at Begonias Lane Park in Canyon Country from 10 a.m. to noon. There w ...

Oh Baby!-May 2008

Tue, 29 Apr 2008 17:00:31 +0100

Three beautiful babies!!

Spring Has Sprung! Time to clean up and organize your Mac!

Tue, 29 Apr 2008 16:54:38 +0100

Well with the recent temperatures I am sure that we all can agree that spring has officially sprung! The flowers are blooming and all of this energy gives us a chance to start with our spring-cleaning. This year however, I decided that it was time to take a different approach and clean up and organize my new Mac! I recently upgraded my Mac laptop and in doing so realized that I faced some issues.

Crafting is Buzzing

Tue, 29 Apr 2008 16:51:56 +0100

It’s spring and the crafting buzz is buzzing! If you’re not a crafter, it’s time to become one with a little help by Beverly’s fabrics and craft as your idea store! Need some inspiration or some fresh ideas for your home or any craft project? Our quality staff is ready to assist! Ask any one of our friendly associates for ideas or directions to help make your dream projects a reality. Come see our custom floral designs and home décor i ...

Cruising Europe:Ã¢ÂÂ¯ Better Than Ever

Tue, 29 Apr 2008 16:51:02 +0100

London, Paris, Rome and so much more: the great cities and sights of Europe await not only land-based tourists, but cruise passengers as well.
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Dazzle your Guests with Elegant Candlelight!

Tue, 29 Apr 2008 16:50:06 +0100

May brings the beauty of Spring into our homes. Special events abound, led by Cinco de Mayo on May 5, Mothers Day on May 11, special family celebrations and just getting together with friends and neighbors for a casual or more formal dinner party.

Antique Talk: Vintage Furnishings

Tue, 29 Apr 2008 16:49:19 +0100

When I owned my retail antiques business, I tried to devote some furniture inventory for first time homebuyers that were new to antiques. They wanted to incorporate items into their decorating style and wanted to be different. They sought value and wanted functional items that they liked and appreciated. These buyers were on the younger side and most likely the bulk of their income went to mortgage and vehicle payments, childcare and utilities. They did not have money to burn. ...

Friends for All Seasons

Tue, 29 Apr 2008 16:47:24 +0100

If you spend most holidays either alone or with your friends’ families, you might want to read on. I am an older woman who was told many years ago that I could not have children, so as life moved on, I found myself sad, especially on Mother’s DayÃ¢ÂÂ¯and realized I would never hear anyone call me mom or grandma. Even though I have what I called a perfect life, I feel a tug of sadness when all conversations I’m in with my friends turn to their kids and I have nothin ...

Tips For Making Your KidÃ¢ÂÂs Photos Even More Special

Tue, 29 Apr 2008 16:46:47 +0100

Whether you are a professional photographer or professional mom, photographing children is a challenge. They move fast, they are small and they are not the best listeners! Oh and they love putting their sticky fingers right on the lens, but even with all the hazards, photographing children is a blast! Here our some of our top tips to make photographing your children a little easier.

You Are Beautiful

Tue, 29 Apr 2008 16:45:05 +0100

Only two percent of women around the world think of themselves as beautiful and four out of five women are dissatisfied with their image.

Too often women, starting from their early years, are bombarded with social, cultural misconceptions and skewed “photoshopped” images that lead to a personal flawed perception which define our definition of beauty.

Rio VistaÃ¢ÂÂs Second Annual Environmental Awareness and Career Day

Tue, 29 Apr 2008 16:44:23 +0100

On April 3, 2008, Rio Vista Elementary School held its 2nd Annual Environmental Awareness and Career Day, sponsored by the National Hispanic Environmental Council. The full day event began with an opening assembly where prominent leaders within the community spoke to the students, staff, parents and invited guests about recycling, energy efficiency andÃ¢ÂÂ¯ wilderness preservation.Ã¢ÂÂ¯ Dave Berg, producer of the “Tonight Show” encouraged students to “Continue on their ...

Spring is Here and "New Art is in the Air"

Mon, 24 Mar 2008 15:45:45 +0100

We at B&R Gallery hope you had a good winter. Now that the weather is warming and spring is here, we are planning for the upcoming months and summer fun. B&R Gallery and Custom Framing is also busy ordering new and exciting art for its collection. I have just returned from visiting Art Expo New York in Manhattan with the President of the Greenwich Workshop, Scott Usher, Vice President for Sales, Vinny Grabowski, and Sales Representative, Steve Resnick. I brought i ...

iPhone Versus Voyager

Mon, 24 Mar 2008 15:43:21 +0100

If style and profound performance are part of your mobile destiny, the new Verizon Wireless Voyager by LG is just what you’ve been waiting for. The first phone with both interactive-touch screen and a full QWERTY keyboard, this one-of-a-kind wonder can also tune you in and turn you on to VCast mobile television and full HTML internet browsing. Voyager also sports a music player with dual speakers for stereo sound, Bluetooth, and a 2.0 mega pixel camera and camcorder.

Zonta Club of the SCV Improving the lives of women through service,advocacy and awareness.

Mon, 24 Mar 2008 15:42:17 +0100

Zonta honors women in service! The Zonta Club of Santa Clarita will host its celebration of outstanding women volunteers in Santa Clarita on Saturday, April 5th. The brunch event will be held at Valencia Country Club with registration at 9:30 a.m. followed by brunch and the program begins at 10 a.m. Non-profit volunteer organizations in the Santa Clarita Valley have nominated one of their own to be honored.

Celebrate Earth Day with Clean-burning Candles

Mon, 24 Mar 2008 15:38:39 +0100

Earth day is “celebrated” this year on Tuesday, April 22nd. It is a date that reminds all of us of the importance of doing things in our daily life that help the environment. Recycling comes to mind, as does using things in our home that do not use excessive energy. Candlelight is something that can be used to “illuminate” our living space without using electricity.

Research for a Cancer-Free Future 10th Annual Relay For Life,"Passport To Hope"

Mon, 24 Mar 2008 15:31:03 +0100

Offers a Passport to Cancer Prevention and Cures

In 2007 alone, more than 1.4 million people in the United States were diagnosed with cancer, and more than 559,000 died from the disease. Striving to curb these devastating numbers through better prevention and cures, the American Cancer Society’s Department of Epidemiology and Surveillance Research is recruiting 500,000 adults across the United States and Puerto Rico for a new cancer study.

Embracing Your Sensuality Through Boudoir Photography

Mon, 24 Mar 2008 15:28:08 +0100

A lovely lady by the name of Patricia Cordova came into my studio. Her courage to express her sensuality through photography came from her conviction that, I am still beautiful and sexy regardless. Her intimate boudoir photos will be a courageous reminder of an empowered woman, mother and daughter.

My Kid is Smarter Than Your Kid!

Mon, 24 Mar 2008 15:23:57 +0100

Not really, I was just trying to get your attention. As soon as my children have been able to move a mouse they have been using computers. My two older children who are in high school have never been behind in their studies.

Saugus Dance Team Annual Dance Show!

Mon, 24 Mar 2008 15:22:59 +0100

The Award Winning Saugus High School Dance Team will once again present its Annual Dance Show on Friday, April 25 and Saturday, April 26 in the Saugus High School Gymnasium.

Point, Click, Shoot!

Tue, 26 Feb 2008 15:47:29 +0100

Think you’ve got an inspiring picture in your photo album or in jpg-form on your computer desktop? Is it so amazingly cool that you’d like to see it published for all of the Santa Clarita Valley to admire and adore? Is it award-winning? Let the editors at The Magazine of Santa Clarita be the judge. Each month we will accept entries. All you need to do is send them by computer only to editorial@santaclaritamagazine.com with:

Empowering Women Through Lingerie

Tue, 26 Feb 2008 15:45:54 +0100

Ladies, it is vital to sustain and refresh ourselves with some pampering lest our lives overwhelm us with its demands and schedules. Fortunately, we have many ways to pamper ourselves: spa, gym, shopping, reading a good book. Consider Lingerie.

80 Years Later the St. Francis Dam Still Fascinates Historians

Tue, 26 Feb 2008 15:44:55 +0100

The second-worst natural disaster in California history occurred March 12, 1928 when the St. Francis Dam collapsed, sending a wall of water rushing through San Francisquito Canyon and the Santa Clara River canyons, killing 450 and laying waste to thousands of acres of land. To commemorate the 80th anniversary of the disaster, the Santa Clarita Valley Historical Society will host two events exploring the dam break and its aftermath.

Informed Choices In Wedding Jewelry

Tue, 26 Feb 2008 15:42:49 +0100

Fashions in jewelry for the Bride and Groom are very much a matter of a personal preference now. There are many different styles available and here are some ideas for you to consider. Is your personal style very modern, traditional or somewhere in between?

Art & Music for "Health's Sake"

Tue, 26 Feb 2008 15:42:03 +0100

Did you know that looking at beautiful works of art and listening to music may contribute to better health? Being a co-owner of an art gallery for 27 years and also a musician for 43, I see how art and music have enhanced my life and contributed to my health.

Entertainment on the Go!

Tue, 26 Feb 2008 15:40:45 +0100

Do you do a lot of traveling? Long trips? Just normal everyday errands can now be much more entertaining right from your Verizon Wireless cell phone!

Zonta and Soroptimist Clubs Join Together

Tue, 26 Feb 2008 15:38:24 +0100

It was a great joint Zonta and Soroptimist meeting this year as local members of the two organizations joined for their yearly meeting. Hosted by Zonta Club of Santa Clarita Valley, the highlighted speakers for the evening were Julie Mairs, President of Los Angeles Soroptimist Club and Dianne Curtis, local Zontian and Zonta International Vice-President.

Why a Mac?

Tue, 26 Feb 2008 15:36:56 +0100

We humans are all about communication — that is what differentiates us from all other creatures. I have heard whales make very sophisticated sounds which we can’t decipher. Monkeys seem pretty good at getting their point across to their group, however, they are lacking in their abilities.

Tony Potts to Serve as Spokesperson

Tue, 26 Feb 2008 15:34:35 +0100

The Michael Hoefflin Foundation for Children’s Cancer announced today that “Access Hollywood” co-anchor and correspondent Tony Potts will serve as the foundation’s official spokesperson.

Trying to Sell Your Home? Give it Scentmosphere!

Tue, 26 Feb 2008 15:33:34 +0100

Looking to sell your home? All we hear these days is how bad the housing market is. How can you give your home that “edge” vs. the other competition out there during these challenging times? While getting buyers to your home is a critical step in the process, ensuring you make a lasting impression after they leave your house is what gets buyers to ultimately purchase your home.

New Cleaners to Offer Lifetime Discount

Tue, 26 Feb 2008 15:31:59 +0100

With the opening of SCV Cleaners, Albert Naber is returning to his roots. The Santa Clarita resident was trained as a tailor and earned his degree in Rome, but for 25 years he has spent more time with cars than clothes. Together with his wife Antoinette, Albert turned Canyon Country’s Water Wheel Car Wash into a neighborhood institution.

The History of ValentineÃ¢ÂÂs Day

Mon, 28 Jan 2008 15:52:21 +0100

Zonta Club of Santa Clarita Valley Advancing the Status of Women Locally and Worldwide

Mon, 28 Jan 2008 15:51:32 +0100

Offered by Zonta, The Jane M. Klausman Women in Business Scholarship is available to young women who are interested in pursuing a career in business. Women who are eligible to enter their third or fourth year of an undergraduate degree program are encouraged to pursue careers and seek leadership positions in business-related fields in their communities and throughout the world.

News from the S.C.V.- Newhall Optimist Club

Mon, 28 Jan 2008 15:46:23 +0100

The holidays are over and we at the SCV Newhall Optimist Club hope you and yours had happy ones. Our wishes for the New Year are ones of health, happiness and peace for all mankind. Our thanks and gratitude go out to all those in the community that helped make our annual food and toy drive a success.

Point, Click, Shoot and Win!

Mon, 28 Jan 2008 15:44:21 +0100

With so Many Kinds of Massage, Which One do I Need?

Mon, 28 Jan 2008 15:42:05 +0100

When you read through the various ads for massage and read about all different kinds of massage, one can get over-whelmed. Everyone out there is an expert. Some people claim that their name of massage is something new.

Feel Beautiful Ã¢ÂÂ Feel Empowered

Mon, 28 Jan 2008 15:40:16 +0100

Maureen Leibowitz, Portrait Elegance by Maureen, specializes in capturing a woman’s essence and beauty unlike any other artist. Her portraits are flawless and incredibly beautiful capturing a women’s inner sprit. The passion and artistry which she brings to each image is impressive. No matter what the world dishes up a woman will leave Maureen’s studio feeling beautiful, sensual and strong.

A Great Place for the Family or a Group to Spend Some Time and Get Educated

Mon, 28 Jan 2008 15:39:29 +0100

My wife Barbara and I have owned B&R Gallery for 25 years now, and over this time, a number of families, groups and organizations, including college classes, Boy Scout troops, and grade school classes as well as individual art students and art collectors have visited us to become educated on the artists we represent and to enjoy the ambiance of our gallery and custom framing facilities.

New Hands-Free Driving Law

Mon, 28 Jan 2008 15:37:20 +0100

The hands-free law goes into effect on July 1st of this year, which means while you’re driving, you must be “hands-free” using your cell phone. Hands-free means using a wired earpiece, the speakerphone on your cell phone or your car, if equipped, or the most popular, a Bluetooth earpiece. A Bluetooth earpiece is a short-range (usually not more than 30 feet) wireless connection to your cell phone.

Food Pantry Teams with Local Schools for Feinstein Million Dollar Hunger Challenge

Mon, 28 Jan 2008 15:35:28 +0100

To capitalize on a millionaire’s dream of eliminating hunger through grassroots involvement, the Santa Clarita Valley Food Pantry invited local schools to team up for the “4th Annual Students Against Hunger in the SCV — Spring Food Drive 2008.” The winning school will receive an award certificate from the SCV Food Pantry.

Technology Update

Mon, 28 Jan 2008 15:33:30 +0100

Now is the best time of the year for gadget nuts: We have the Consumer Electronics Show madness, and that’s closely followed by MacWorld, at which Steve Jobs and crew get up and try to outshine CES and gather all of the buzz in the world of gadgets.

Domestic Violence Center uses Art to Teach Youth

Mon, 28 Jan 2008 15:27:49 +0100

Now in its 25th year of service to the Santa Clarita Valley, the area’s premier Domestic Violence Center agency has a new tool in the recovery toolbox for kids, art! Three new “teaching tools” are actually a set of new custom murals that now adorn the walls of the center’s back office area.

National Job Shadow Event Shares Day with Groundhogs

Thu, 20 Dec 2007 15:57:00 +0100

Alliance Seeks Volunteers from Many Professions to Take Students to Work for a Day Whether Punxsutawney Phil sees his shadow or not, employers across Santa Clarita will see theirs on Friday, February 1st, during the Eleventh Annual National Groundhog Job Shadow Day, hosted locally by the Santa Clarita Valley School & Business Alliance. Throughout Santa Clarita, students will spend a half-day shadowing scientist’, firefighters, graphic designers, doctors, architects, teachers, go ...

News from the SCV Newhall Optimist Club

Thu, 20 Dec 2007 15:52:56 +0100

On behalf of the club, I would like to extend our wishes for a happy and healthy New Year and thank you, the wonderful people of Santa Clarita Valley for all the help that you have extended to the Jim Tindell Family via our club. Your donations and support has been just awesome, and I know that I speak for the family when I say, Thank You.

Gifts from the Heart

Thu, 20 Dec 2007 15:50:43 +0100

The Holiday Season is coming to an end and we can relax and take some time to reflect on all the fun parties we attended, friends we reconnected with, family we visited, and all the food we ate. Time to think of the new resolutions we’ll try to keep. But before you know it, Valentine’s Day is around the corner and the pressure is on again to find that perfect meaningful gift, once more, right after the holidays!

Blue Star Mothers of the Canyons Receive Donations from Unitarian Universalist Service

Thu, 20 Dec 2007 15:44:11 +0100

Blue Star Mothers of the Canyons have been chosen by Unitarian Universalists as the recipient of the Third Sunday Special Collection for the month of January 2008. The Blue Star Mothers will use the gift to assist with postage for their “Hearts and Hugs from Home” boxes to be mailed to the troops in Iraq and Afghanistan in time for Valentines Day.

Santa Clarita Performing Arts Center Wins Architectural Design Award

Thu, 20 Dec 2007 15:41:15 +0100

he Santa Clarita Performing Arts Center at College of the Canyons has received a statewide award for its design. Architect Jim Spencer of NTD Architecture was awarded a 2007 Community College Facility Coalition Professional Design Award for his work on the Center.

Enjoy a Library of Art Books at B&R Gallery

Thu, 20 Dec 2007 15:40:22 +0100

B & R Gallery offers a number of books for browsing and enjoying at the gallery, as well as for purchase. They feature top artists, such as Howard Terpning, Morgan Weistling, Bev Doolittle, William S. Phillips, Pino, James Christensen and other top artists.

Finally a New Year's Resolution that You can Stick to, Time!

Thu, 20 Dec 2007 15:39:14 +0100

So you’ve eaten all you can eat over the holidays and spent all that you can spend. Now you sit and wonder what would you like to try different this year? Have you thought about making more time for yourself? Have you thought about the time spent/wasted waiting in lines, on hold, trying to figure out your cell phone bill, re-dialing after a dropped call?

Gary Spindt Will Navigate LETMESAIL in 2008

Thu, 20 Dec 2007 15:36:14 +0100

The Santa Clarita Valley is very fortunate to have fulltime resources now available for our growing population of people with disabilities. LETMESAIL (an acronym for Lifestyle Enrichment Through Meaningful Exercise, Social Activity and Independent Living) has launched the next phase of its’ organizational development in order to better serve individuals with special needs in our community.

Saavy Computer User?

Thu, 20 Dec 2007 15:34:54 +0100

The holidays have come and gone and once again it’s time to put away the decorations and set your sights on following through with those New Years resolutions. Like many of you I have pledged the standard “I am going to eat better this year, get more exercise etc.”

The Remote Control Advantage

Thu, 20 Dec 2007 15:33:51 +0100

Today’s home entertainment systems, from modest to sophisticated, all have one thing in common, the remote control. How many different remotes do you have sitting on your coffee table? Do you have to perform a carefully orchestrated sequence of button presses just to watch a DVD? How often have you grabbed the wrong remote just to change the channel? Wouldn’t you rather have one remote that can do it all and make your system easier to use?

Remember, You Are Not Alone.

Wed, 28 Nov 2007 16:14:07 +0100

Are you or someone you love recouping from an addiction or a mental disease? Are you looking for advice, information and comfort during your journey of regaining a new and healthy you? We at Serenity Stop want you to know that you are not alone and we would like to help.

Have No Patience? Text!

Wed, 28 Nov 2007 16:13:08 +0100

Ever wondered why so many people these days use text messaging? Because it’s a quick, easy and efficient way to get that information across. It may seem intimidating when you see it done at warp speed by a third-grader, but it really is easier than you would initially think. Cell phones have an entry mode that predicts what you want to spell. The average text message takes only seconds, compared to several minutes for the average call.

A Bundle of Thanks

Wed, 28 Nov 2007 16:10:27 +0100

As 2007 comes to a close, we would like to say a special thank you to all of our wonderful customers for their support all year long. We would also like to take this opportunity to say a special thanks to the wonderful firefighters and our law enforcement during our most recent fires here in the Santa Clarita Valley. We really learned a lot during the fires. We shared so many stories with our customers about the experiences they had during this time.

So Many Beads, So Little Time

Wed, 28 Nov 2007 15:48:00 +0100

Selling beads has been a family business for Gayle Joy, owner of Beads ‘n Other Needs, for over 40 years. Gayle grew up with a love and appreciation of beading and the ever-changing fashions in jewelry and beadwork and enjoys helping her customers develop the skills and the passion for beading. Gayle feels strongly about reaching out to the community as well, donating to the Michael Hoefflin Foundation and The Painted Turtle annual event and advertising with local schools and charities.&nb ...

The Gift of Art for the Holiday Season

Wed, 28 Nov 2007 15:46:49 +0100

Being in the art gallery business for more than 25 years I have seen many customers give their friends and family members a work of art or some framed special memento for the holidays. Art is a very personal gift, and giving the right piece to a loved one or someone special really can make their holiday unique. Art is a gift that lasts, retains its value and can be enjoyed for many years to come.

Healthy Chocolate: Does It Really Exist?

Wed, 28 Nov 2007 15:45:22 +0100

Oprah loves this product; so does Larry King. What is it you ask? It’s XOCAIä Healthy Chocolate. Most Americans tend to think of chocolate as nothing more than a sweet candy treat. Well, I am here to tell you that chocolate is no longer just a quick fix for your sweet tooth. XOCAIä (pronounced “sho-sigh”) Healthy Chocolate is made from a combination of the world’s two greatest super foods – raw cacao and the acai berry. ...

Sexy Beast: Canine Style Unleashed

Wed, 28 Nov 2007 15:43:40 +0100

One woman was able to teach the old beauty industry some new tricks after unleashing a line of pet beauty products. People’s relationships with their pets have truly evolved. Pet owners comprise over 63 percent of the American population and sales for pet products and services have grown steadily, reaching $2.4 billion in 2005. But even with all of the trendy sweaters and doggie rain boots, entrepreneur and dog lover Renée Ryan knew that something was missing. E ...

Silver Rose Debutantes Presented at Tea

Wed, 28 Nov 2007 15:41:14 +0100

The 2007-2008 Henry Mayo Newhall Memorial Hospital Guild Silver Rose Debutantes were presented to the Santa Clarita Valley during a special tea.
On the menu were tasty hors d’oeuvres and finger sandwiches, fantastic desserts, and high emotions as eleven seniors were given a silver medallion by members of their families. The medallion, a traditional silver rose emblem, will be worn by the debutantes at the 2008 Silver Rose Ball.

Diamonds Really Are Forever

Wed, 28 Nov 2007 15:38:27 +0100

Did you know that the value of diamonds is actually rising?

So those gems you inherited from your mom or aunt are actually worth more now than when they were first purchased! So take good care of those lovely gems by keeping them clean. Dirt buildup can cause wear on jewelry that could easily be avoided. Visit your jeweler at least once a year to have your fine jewelry professionally cleaned.

Shop 'til You Drop Days at The Saugus Swap Meet

Wed, 28 Nov 2007 15:37:38 +0100

With only a limited number of Sundays available until Christmas, you won’t want to miss the shopping opportunities available at the Saugus Swap Meet this season. Electronics, sporting goods, furniture, jewelry, toys, men’s clothing, women’s clothing, children’s clothing, accessories, handbags, automotive gear and accessories, collectibles, holiday decorating, gifts, hobby items, stocking stuffers, it can all be found at the Saugus Swap Meet.

The Perfect Holiday Gift

Wed, 28 Nov 2007 15:33:22 +0100

So how are you doing with your holiday shopping? Are you getting frustrated trying to find that perfect gift for your loved one?
If your someone special is a golfer, I have got the perfect idea for you! No, it’s not a new set of Titleist irons (although that’s a great gift too); I’m talking about something that’s much more affordable.

Pre - Lit Artificial Christmas Trees

Wed, 28 Nov 2007 15:32:35 +0100

A Christmas tree is the ultimate symbol of home, holiday and family tradition. Here are some tips and suggestions you can use when determining the right tree for you.

Embracing "iLife" on my Mac

Wed, 28 Nov 2007 15:30:29 +0100

Change is a word that at some time we all fear, especially when it pertains to our own lives. No doubt the word change has become synonymous with technology. Every time you turn around there is something new promising you everything from a whiter smile to allowing you new and exciting ways to save on car insurance. For most of us all of these claims fall far short of our hope for some great new utopian life. I have realized, however, that my life has changed dramatically ...

What's Your Holiday Choice: Blu-Ray or HD DVD?

Wed, 28 Nov 2007 15:28:17 +0100

Happy Holidays Santa Clarita! There are many things you should be thinking about as you go through December. Where will we go for the Holiday dinner? Where will I do my last - minute shopping? Why am I reading this article when I should be out buying that new High Definition player that the family has been asking for? This article is for you, so read it before you hit the local big box retailer and are forced to ask some overworked kid “Hey, what should I buy for m ...

'Tis The SeasonÃ¢ÂÂ¦

Wed, 28 Nov 2007 15:27:12 +0100

It seems as though the holiday season has snuck up on us, once again. Before frustration and panic sets in, consider shopping in a new, friendly and relaxing environment.

Oasis Garden & Patio Offers Ornaments Galore and Much More

Wed, 24 Oct 2007 14:45:43 +0100

With the temperatures dipping downward and the calendar flipping forward, the holidays are on our minds and Chris and Amy Boswell, owners of Oasis Garden & Patio, know it. They have transformed their showroom from a place of fine outdoor living necessities to a winter wonderland boutique in an effort to bring the Santa Clarita Valley the largest selection of designer-oriented trim and trees in town.

The Gift of Life

Wed, 24 Oct 2007 14:42:53 +0100

On this 19th birthday of two of the most important people in my life, my twins, Darren and Melissa, I am reminded how thankful and grateful I am.

Hospital's 27th Annual Holiday Home Tour

Wed, 24 Oct 2007 14:40:47 +0100

Three stunning homes in Westridge will be decorated in the season’s finest as part of Henry Mayo Newhall Memorial Hospital’s 27th Annual Holiday Home Tour on Saturday, December 1, 2007. Hosted by volunteers Home Tour League volunteers, the tour is part of a time-honored Santa Clarita holiday tradition that draws thousands of people each year. Attendees not only gain early holiday decorating ideas, they support their community hospital in the process; funds raised by the ...

Sparkle and Shine for the Holidays

Wed, 24 Oct 2007 14:34:50 +0100

The perfect holiday gift for everyone on your list is a gift full of sparkle and shine. And the best way to get that sparkle and shine is from jewelry and the many decorative items available at your local jeweler. They have gifts for everyone from family and friends to business associates. Everyone loves engraved gifts personalized just for them. For the young people, sterling silver is especially popular and will be on their most wanted list. Rings, earrings, chain ...

Join Clarice's for Fun Holiday Cake and Candy Making

Wed, 24 Oct 2007 14:33:23 +0100

The approaching holidays conjure up images of quality time spent with family and friends, of decked-out stores packed with gifts, and, of course, sugar-coated visions of sweet candies and festive cakes. Clarice’s Cake and Candy Supplies wants to make all of your holiday dessert dreams come true.

Oh Baby!

Wed, 24 Oct 2007 14:32:04 +0100

On June 21st of this year, proud parents Khristopher and Edurne Garwick of Valencia welcomed a beautiful baby girl into the world. Sophia Irene Garwick was born weighing seven perfect little pounds.

Santa Makes House Calls Thanks to Zonta Program

Wed, 24 Oct 2007 14:31:24 +0100

Doctors may not make house calls any more, but Santa Claus does — thanks to the Rent-A-Santa program sponsored by Zonta Club of the Santa Clarita Valley. Santa, with a full entourage of elves and Mrs. Claus, is available for community events, private or corporate parties, family holiday get-togethers and personal visits with local children, with proceeds helping to support Zonta’s local and international projects.

Country Antique Fair Celebrates 28 Years

Wed, 24 Oct 2007 14:30:27 +0100

The Country Antique Fair Mall is one of Santa Clarita’s longest-standing establishments and has remained in the same location for the past 28 years. The Fair owes its longevity to the fabulous dealers and patrons. With an upcoming anniversary celebration, it’s hoped that the Fair will continue to prosper for the next 28 years.

Feel the Speed at Fontana Speedway

Wed, 24 Oct 2007 14:29:32 +0100

NASCAR Busch Series was about to give us its best. You could smell the burning gasoline as soon as we arrived at the area to pick up our tickets. Did we ever feel so special as we got to hop on to the golf car and got a ride to the VIP section at the inner circle of the track. Tracking down the Sport Clips sponsored GEICO racing team #7 was fun as we walked by team after team, up close and personal, curiously checking out all the interesting car racing equipment, until arriving ...

Original Collection of Bev Doolittle Paintings at B&R Gallery

Wed, 24 Oct 2007 14:28:41 +0100

B&R Gallery is honored to have more than 20 original paintings by internationally acclaimed artist Bev Doolittle on display at our gallery on Sierra Highway in Canyon Country. Bev Doolittle original watercolors are very rare, and to be able to see over 20 of these beautiful works in a single location is a real treat.

Re-Decorate Your Home for the Holidays with Candlelight

Wed, 24 Oct 2007 14:26:57 +0100

The holidays are just around the corner. With this comes a desire to do a “makeover” for your home. One of the most inexpensive ways to redecorate is with fragrance and candles.

Mac Training and Seminars

Wed, 24 Oct 2007 14:25:44 +0100

It’s been a fantastic year in the world of Apple and in Santa Clarita there is one place to come see what all the fuss is about. Less than one year old, Mac Talk has quickly become a second home to many of our neighbors. However, don’t let our age deceive you. Mac Talk has been doing business in Downtown Ventura for more than three years and, in Woodland Hills, we have lived up to our reputation for the past 15 years. We are certified Apple specialists and are ...

Cellular Made Easy

Wed, 24 Oct 2007 14:24:54 +0100

From the most reliable wireless network in America to now the most reliable local retail source for Verizon Wireless, Authorized Wireless is here to serve the Santa Clarita Valley. You may be asking yourself “What is the difference between Authorized Wireless and other Verizon Retailers?” And the answer is service. Customer service, personal service and the comfort of kind, knowledgeable sales associates, to help you with all of your wireless needs. I don&rsqu ...

Life's Better in Surround Sound

Wed, 24 Oct 2007 14:21:49 +0100

Are friends and family dropping in to celebrate the holidays at your house this year? Will they all be able to fit around your current television to watch the Turkey Bowl or the Rose Parade? Can you hear your audio system over Uncle Joe’s armchair quarterbacking or Aunt Ruth’s singing once you flip the station to “Don’t Forget the Lyrics?” Are your guests juggling all seven of the remotes you use to control your audio/video system? If you answered ...

A Great Chance to Reclaim Your Weekends

Wed, 26 Sep 2007 18:27:16 +0100

The list of weekend chores just seems to grow with every passing day. As school starts up again and the holidays approach, I shudder to think what little personal time will be left for me. I just decided to give myself a break and it sure was a welcome change.

Deadline for Zonta Grants October 15

Wed, 26 Sep 2007 18:26:53 +0100

Zonta Club provides grants to mature women who are at a crossroad and need assistance to make a new life. The Virginia Wrage Memorial Fund was established to help these women in need achieve social and economic independence following a life-altering event.

News from the S.C.V. Newhall Optimist Club

Wed, 26 Sep 2007 18:25:52 +0100

On a personal note I would like to once again say thank you to all of you that sent cards, e-mails and good wishes on my husband Mike’s recent hospitalization. He underwent chemo for the return of cancer and had to have some additional surgery. He is now home and I am happy to report that he is doing well and is now cancer-free.

Top U.S. artists to Make Personal Appearances at B&R Gallery

Wed, 26 Sep 2007 18:16:14 +0100

In the coming months, Judy Larson, top scratchboard artist; William Phillips, top painter of landscapes, aviation and idyllic Americana scenes; and Robert Copple, who paints romantic and European scenes, as well as wildlife, will all be appearing at the B&R Gallery on Sierra Highway in Canyon Country.

Local Soroptimist Members Attend International Convention in Scotland

Wed, 26 Sep 2007 18:00:07 +0100

Several members of the local Soroptimist Club attended the XVIII Annual Soroptimist International Convention in the City of Culture, Glasgow, Scotland from July 29 to August 2, 2007.

Among other well-known speakers and dignitaries, HRH The Princess Royal honored the organization by joining them during the Convention. It was a great privilege for the 1,500 worldwide delegates of Soroptimist International who traveled far and wide to attend the event.

Re-Defining Portrait Photography Through Service

Wed, 26 Sep 2007 17:56:12 +0100

You’ve seen what the portrait market currently offers – stuffy, plain Jane portraiture in a hurried factory-like production environment. “Smile,” Click-click, “Your pictures will be ready in two weeks or so.”

SCV Rose Society Rose Show

Wed, 26 Sep 2007 17:54:12 +0100

The Santa Clarita Valley Rose Society will host its 14th Annual Rose Show themed “Wild West Roses” on Saturday, October 13, 2007, at the William S. Hart Park. The show will be located in Hart Hall. The public is invited to attend free of charge. Everyone is welcome to exhibit their homegrown roses at the show, including novices and children.

Antique Talk

Wed, 26 Sep 2007 17:48:58 +0100

For many years, I have used antiques and collectibles as decorative and functional appointments in my home and office. I enjoy my little pieces of the past, just as you may. Yet, many things being bought and sold in the antiques world today are not quite antique. Most are vintage goods: items our grandparents and parents had in their homes. Some of these we can remember as a small child visiting Granny and Papa. Their aging furnishings, dishes, knick-knacks and wall ...

The Vintage Bead Trunk Show

Tue, 28 Aug 2007 17:02:05 +0100

Beads ‘N Other Needs is celebrating its eight-year anniversary with the exciting return of their Vintage Bead Trunk Show. After taking a couple years off for maternity leave, their favorite traveling bead merchant Dayra is back. She is returning with a whole new array of vintage Swarovski crystal, Czech glass and funky Lucite beads, as well as pearls and gemstones.

Tips for Cleaning Your Jewels

Tue, 28 Aug 2007 17:01:29 +0100

Information on how to care for your gemstone is always timely and Jack and Ginger Freed from Jewelry World offer these tips:

Hospital Hosts 2nd Annual Baby Expo

Tue, 28 Aug 2007 17:00:39 +0100

Henry Mayo Newhall Memorial Hospital will host its second annual SCV Healthy Baby Expo from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m., Saturday, September 29 in the hospital parking lot, 23845 McBean Parkway, Valencia. The Baby Expo is a health fair focusing on prenatal and post partum mothers and fathers. Expectant parents and young families will enjoy a morning of education and entertainment including complimentary health screenings for parents and grandparents.

Knit One, Pearl TwoÃ¢ÂÂ¦Simply Knitting is Perfect for Me and You

Tue, 28 Aug 2007 16:59:13 +0100

There is truly nothing as personal as something homemade, right? Whether it is for a gift or something for yourself, a hand knit or crocheted scarf or sweater always feels and looks comfortable and unique, as it should, after all, it is one-of-a-kind, right?

Common Sense of Gift Giving

Tue, 28 Aug 2007 16:56:42 +0100

Everybody loves to receive gifts. Unfortunately, not all like to give them. All too often we get caught up in the process of trying to outdo everyone else and rely on what is flashy, expensive and will reflect well on us. At other times, we consider gift giving nothing more than an obligation and resort to falling back on gifts that may convey the notion that we were unwilling to invest a little time and thought into selecting a gift.

News from the S.C.V.-Newhall Optimist Club

Tue, 28 Aug 2007 16:41:56 +0100

This past month proved to be one of calm and quiet for our club as is the case with most Optimist clubs. Members on vacation, too hot for projects, so it is a relief to be able to sit back and take it easy and look forward to the up and coming months and projects.

The Character Counts Connection

Tue, 28 Aug 2007 16:40:52 +0100

A local educator presented a character development workshop in St. Louis at the annual Character Plus conference held at the Hyatt
Regacy in Union Station.

Providence Holy Cross and Community Sponsors Partner for the Art of Healing

Tue, 28 Aug 2007 16:37:27 +0100

Art inspires. Art transforms. Art heals

Children and adults in the Santa Clarita Valley are invited to submit their creations to “The Art of Healing,” a program designed to enhance the talents of young artists while providing a healing environment to patients at Providence Holy Cross Health Center in Valencia.

The Shaman and His Magic Feathers

Tue, 28 Aug 2007 16:35:32 +0100

To be called a medicine man or shaman meant that one had unexplainable powers. These outstanding powers were beyond comprehension and Native people accepted these powers at their face value and as proof of a supernatural blessing.

Molar Manor's House of the Dancing Dead

Tue, 28 Aug 2007 16:31:15 +0100

As the fall season is upon us a familiar scent attaches to the breeze, there’s a chill in the air and before we know it Halloween is here. A growing holiday who’s appeal is reaching more and more people each year.

Making Memories With Our Children

Tue, 24 Jul 2007 15:13:09 +0100

Time flies. It’s an old saying, but in today’s fast-paced world, it’s never been so true. Before we know it, our kids are all grown up, out on their own or off to college. Most parents realize the rewards of close family ties. Yet, the demands of jobs and day-to-day activities can be stressful and tiring. So, it’s easy for quality time with our kids to get squeezed out.

News from the S.C.V. Newhall Optimist Club

Tue, 24 Jul 2007 15:11:16 +0100

June was a special month for us, many things happening on our Optimist Club plate as the saying goes. There were family members graduating, participations in several events in the city, including the Chili Cook off at the Pitchess Detention center.

Twentieth Anniversary Santa Clarita Bus Tour

Tue, 24 Jul 2007 15:10:03 +0100

A group of Santa Clarita residents have a deeper appreciation for their community after attending a 20th anniversary Santa Clarita bus tour. The tour was free and open to the public, taking residents on a two-hour ride through and around the Santa Clarita Valley.

The Magazine of Santa Clarita Photo Contest - August 2007

Tue, 24 Jul 2007 15:07:24 +0100

A Loving Reunion

Tue, 24 Jul 2007 15:03:04 +0100

Our photo contest winner came in right at the last minute this month and no one could deny that this was “The One.” We received an email from Frank Fitch and Bonnie Claeys about their two loving children and here’s what they had to say:

Stay Cool by Visiting a Museum or Gallery this Summer

Tue, 24 Jul 2007 15:01:54 +0100

The summer heat is here and we are looking for relief from it. So why not visit an art gallery or museum in the Greater Los Angeles area? This is a great way to spend your afternoon, cool off and enjoy some beautiful works of art.

Expressions of Hope: A Masterpiece of Unity

Tue, 24 Jul 2007 15:00:22 +0100

Hope is one of the greatest tools in the battle against disease.
On August 1, you can witness the power of hope by supporting the American Cancer Society Santa Clarita Valley Unit’s second annual “Expressions of Hope” Art Show and Open House.

Let's Talk About Art - Did You Know?

Tue, 24 Jul 2007 14:57:08 +0100

A great city must have great art but, where will we see the great art?

The Family That Works Together

Tue, 24 Jul 2007 14:55:25 +0100

Everywhere we look lately we see new buildings, business spaces as well as homes, and that’s very good for out city. We also have a few businesses that have been here for a considerable amount of time. For example, did you know that Jewelry World has been in the same spot with the same owners for 22 years?

The History of the First Documented Discovery of Gold in California

Tue, 24 Jul 2007 14:48:14 +0100

Most school children in the U.S. learn that the first discovery of gold in California occurred at Sutter’s Mill on the south fork of the American River in 1848. But the kids of the Santa Clarita Valley know better. They know that the first documented gold discovery in California actually occurred six years earlier in 1842, right here near a famous oak tree in Placerita Canyon.

Michael Hoefflin Foundation Announces Headliner for Annual Gala:

Tue, 26 Jun 2007 11:26:52 +0100

Foreigner lead vocalist Lou Gramm to Rock Evening Under the Stars

One of the biggest names in rock and roll takes the stage at the Michael Hoefflin Foundation’s annual Evening Under the Stars Gala Dinner and Auction on September 15.

Win Dinner Gift Certificate in the The Magazine of Santa Clarita Photo Contest

Tue, 26 Jun 2007 11:25:47 +0100

Think you’ve got an inspiring picture in your photo album or in jpg-format on your computer desktop? Is it so amazingly cool that you’d like to see it published for all of the Santa Clarita Valley to admire and adore? Is it award-winning? Let the editors of The Magazine of Santa Clarita be the judge. Each month we will accept entries. All you need to do is send them by computer only to editorial@santacl ...

A Special Day to Honor our Grandparents

Tue, 26 Jun 2007 11:20:43 +0100

In 1970, a West Virginia housewife, Marian Lucille Herndon McQuade, initiated a campaign to set aside a special day just for grandparents. Through concerted efforts on the part of civic, business, church and political leaders, this campaign expanded statewide. Jennings Randolph (D-WV) was especially instrumental in the project. Grandparents Day was proclaimed in 1973 in West Virginia by Governor Arch Moore. Also in 1973, Senator Randolph introduced a Grandparents Day reso ...

Informed Choices In Wedding Jewelry

Tue, 26 Jun 2007 11:18:41 +0100

There are settings available for all styles.

Volunteering Using Effective Valuable Resources

Tue, 26 Jun 2007 11:17:19 +0100

New Board members who were officially sworn in to the Santa Clarita Valley Resource Center last month and plan to keep the needs of volunteers and non-profit organizations at the forefront of their focus. That emphasis includes a user-friendly website where those organizations seeking volunteers can list job descriptions and hook up with volunteers who can also list their profiles.

Line Up With The Child & Family Center For a Good Cause

Tue, 26 Jun 2007 11:15:40 +0100

Child & Family Center presents its 9th annual Golf Invitational on Monday, July 16, 2007 at Valencia Country Club. Play this prestigious course, site of the AT&T Champions Tournament.

June Carey Makes Personal Appearance at B&R Gallery

Tue, 26 Jun 2007 11:14:41 +0100

On Saturday, May 19th, we featured a well-attended art show with nationally renowned artist June Carey. Carey did a painting demonstration for all those who attended as well as hand embellishing canvas pieces for people who purchased her work.

Why a Mac?

Tue, 26 Jun 2007 11:12:44 +0100

We’ve all seen the commercials that start, “Hi, I’m a Mac,” and We all have friends that won’t stop talking about their new Mac laptop. It seems everyone is buzzing about Apple products and we’ heard so many people talking about switching. Why, what’s it all about? Well, it’s simple, the answer and the use of the Mac.So, we bring you just a few of the reasons you should check out a Mac:For starters, it just works. With hardw ...

News from the S.C.V.-Newhall Optimist Club

Tue, 26 Jun 2007 11:11:59 +0100

The S.C.V. Newhall Optimist Club had it ups and it downs this past month. On a sad note we lost a very dear member, but more then that a friend and part of our Optimist family. Dottie Brockman was small in stature, but large in heart and optimism, she put up a valiant fight but succumbed to cancer on May 22.

Opportunities Abound for Young Women in Henry Mayo GuildÃ¢ÂÂs Silver Rose Debutante Program

Tue, 26 Jun 2007 11:10:25 +0100

Whether it’s a sparkle in the eye of a proud father as he dances the waltz with his daughter at the culminating event of the Henry Mayo Newhall Memorial Hospital Guild’s Silver Rose Debutante Program, a sense of pride on a mother’s face as her daughter reads a meaningful poem about their relationship at the debutantes’ Mother-Daughter Tea, or a deepening sense of community connection through volunteerism, joining the debutante program has created memories of a lifetime fo ...

Old Movie Reels Ã¢ÂÂ DonÃ¢ÂÂt Let Treasured Film Memories Fade Away

Wed, 30 May 2007 16:04:51 +0100

Those old 8mm, Super 8mm and 16mm movie reels can take you back to another time. Family gatherings, picnics, birthdays, your child’s first steps, etc.

Open Your Homes to Children Who Would Love to be a Part of a Family

Wed, 30 May 2007 16:02:36 +0100

This is the third month in a row that The Magazine of Santa Clarita has featured the photographs and descriptions of children looking to be adopted. We’re happy to report a healthy interest from community members who genuinely see the needs of the children and are picking up the phone to inquire about adoption.

A Magazine of Santa Clarita Column Catches the Eye of Family Wanting to Share Their Love

Wed, 30 May 2007 15:54:40 +0100

They knew there was an outstanding need for families to adopt foster children and had talked about adopting additional children to add to their family of two, but, it wasn’t until they saw a specific article about adoption in last months Magazine of Santa Clarita that they took action.

Oh Baby! June 2007

Wed, 30 May 2007 15:52:49 +0100

Welcome to the latest additions to the Santa Clarita Valley. List provided by Henry Mayo Newhall Memorial Hospital.

The Magazine of Santa Clarita June Photo Contest Winner Shares Romantic Fairy Tale Wedding Photo

Wed, 30 May 2007 15:51:13 +0100

Erin and Steven O’Bannon of Castaic are the winners of the $60 Roast House Gift Certificate. A photo of their wedding on March 31st this year on Sunset Beach, Oahu, Hawaii, speaks volumes about their storybook wedding day.

The Love Between a Father and Daughter

Wed, 30 May 2007 15:49:52 +0100

Unfortunately, it had been more than three years since we last saw one another. No blame, no one’s fault. What is important is that we saw one another recently and both felt good and said those three powerful words to one another, “I love you.”

Fine Art and the Technology of Today

Wed, 30 May 2007 15:49:00 +0100

It always amazes me how the technology of today keeps evolving, whether it’s with computers, automobiles or fine art.
Clients contact us here at B&R Gallery from all over the world as they locate us on the Google.com site by putting their favorite artists’ names in Google’s search engine.

Newborn Safely Surrendered at Santa Clarita Valley Hospital

Wed, 30 May 2007 15:46:21 +0100

The Safe Surrender program is continuing to be effective across the State of California and the Santa Clarita Valley. A newborn child was surrendered at Henry Mayo Hospital in the Santa Clarita Valley this past Spring. It was the eighth Safe Surrender in Los Angeles County in 2007 and the 56th since the program was initiated six years ago.

Mac Fanatic?

Wed, 30 May 2007 15:44:51 +0100

How does it happen that someone becomes a fanatic? You know what I mean, it’s when you can only talk about that thing, it’s all you can think about. It must be like that chemical reaction that happens when you are in love or at least very infatuated. Obsession rules the day. You go out of your way to be involved with it, to know all there is to know about it. I see it every day, people will come into the store and chat about the computer systems they hav ...

Book Review June 2007

Wed, 30 May 2007 15:43:10 +0100

Congratulations to Maureen O’Connell, this months book review winner, who delivered excellent insight into the novel. She will be receiving a $30 gift card from Borders Books, Valencia. Read her review below:

The Holidays are Right Around the Corner

Wed, 30 May 2007 15:41:49 +0100

Its hard to believe but as you’re reading this editorial it is my duty to tell you that we are almost half way through the year 2007. What this means to you is that the holiday season (Christmas, Chanukah, Kwanzaa), is right around the corner.

Candleman Starts Summer with Great Fragrances and a Beach Party

Wed, 30 May 2007 15:22:12 +0100

Summer is finally here and everyone is excited to see the end of the school year, longer days and nights and summer entertaining. Candleman at Gateway Village in Valencia offers the best selection available in summer fragrances which are simply scent-sational.

Magazine of Santa Clarita Book review Winner MAY

Mon, 23 Apr 2007 15:46:53 +0100

Congratulations to Beth M. Brown for writing a compelling book review of Shadow of the Wind by Carlow Ruiz Zafon. For her brilliant assessment of the novel, she will be awarded a $30 gift card donated by Border Books, Valencia. You’ll find her review of the Zafon book reprinted below.

Healthy Kids Club

Mon, 23 Apr 2007 15:44:38 +0100

The award-winning Healthy Kids Club (HKC) was developed in 1993 by the Zonta Club to serve the nearby community of Val Verde. The goal is to improve children’s quality of life by exposing these youth, ages eight through 16, to the arts, health issues and educational opportunities. Scholarships are also available to any HKC member to pursue additional training or education after high school graduation.

Pleasing the Family at Jewelry World

Mon, 23 Apr 2007 15:43:27 +0100

With Mother’s Day fast approaching, I wondered what the friendly staff at Jewelry World would like to suggest for gift giving at this time of the year.

Mother Knows Best

Mon, 23 Apr 2007 15:42:17 +0100

In honor of our mothers I have gathered some well-spoken and favorite sayings that many of our moms have shared with us throughout the years.

The Magazine of Santa Clarita Photo Contest MAY

Mon, 23 Apr 2007 15:41:13 +0100

Think you’ve got an inspiring picture in your photo album or in jpg-format on your computer desktop?

The Magazine of Santa Clarita May Photo Contest Winner

Mon, 23 Apr 2007 15:39:42 +0100

Congratulations to Leslie McCann, a Magazine of Santa Clarita reader and winner of the photo of the month contest.

Art at the Top of the World

Mon, 23 Apr 2007 15:38:08 +0100

I am always amazed when B&R Gallery obtains an earlier watercolor painted in the 70s, 80s or even the 90s by Bev Doolittle.

Staying True to the Red, White and Blue

Mon, 23 Apr 2007 15:37:03 +0100

“Our country is unique in the way we respect and honor the young men and women who volunteer for military service. We show our gratitude and respect for past and present service and I’m proud of that,” says David Zucker, the Santa Clarita Valley Memorial Day Committee President.

Letter to Editor

Mon, 23 Apr 2007 15:35:59 +0100

A letter from Matthew Muir

Volunteer Your Time or Treasures for Domestic Violence Center

Mon, 23 Apr 2007 15:33:47 +0100

The Santa Clarita Domestic Violence Center (DVC) assisted with the needs of more than 500 call-in victims seeking help during the past 12 months.

News from the S.C.V.-Newhall Optimist Club

Mon, 23 Apr 2007 15:32:28 +0100

Well we have been busy this last month and as promised I am glad to announce the winners of the essay contest held recently.

Sci-fi Writer Speaks to the SCV

Mon, 23 Apr 2007 15:31:17 +0100

As part of the National Endowment for the Arts Big Read program, best-selling author Ray Bradbury made a rare appearance in Santa Clarita last month at the Santa Clarita Sports Complex.

Apple Comes to Santa Clarita

Mon, 23 Apr 2007 15:28:38 +0100

“A, B, C, D, E, F, G, H, I, J, K, L, M, N, O, P.” That’s Kaleb (almost 3 years old) working at the kid’s iMac G4 computer at the front door. He’s our official greeter. Oh, by the way kids are welcome here and have a place at the computer.

VHS Dance Team Wins Two National Championship Titles

Mon, 23 Apr 2007 15:27:36 +0100

Setting school history, the Valencia High School Dance Team won the National Championship Title for large jazz dance and the National Championship Title for large character dance.

He Still Loves Me

Mon, 23 Apr 2007 15:25:20 +0100

One of my favorites parts of being pregnant is seeing my husband’s glow (you know, that really great smile that overcomes his whole face) when he looks at me.

Caring for Our Children as a Community

Thu, 05 Apr 2007 14:54:55 +0100

April is National Child Abuse Prevention Month. This month we are encouraged to get involved with community organizations that promote the health and welfare of families in our community.

Ancient Affinities

Thu, 05 Apr 2007 14:53:32 +0100

Nothing spells class and timeless elegance like a string of pearls. Just ask any mother how special she felt when she received her first string of pearls. She does have pearls, doesn’t she?

Oh Baby!

Thu, 05 Apr 2007 14:52:06 +0100

Welcome to the latest additions to the Santa Clarita Valley. List provided by Henry Mayo Newhall Memorial Hospital.

Home Videos, Are Your Memories Fading Away?

Thu, 05 Apr 2007 14:49:50 +0100

Keepsakes and Memories You Will Treasure

Thu, 05 Apr 2007 14:48:19 +0100

It feels as if it were yesterday that I was strapping my twins, Melissa and Darren into their car seats to go to a Mommy and Me class. Today, my now 18 year-old twins are fastening their own seat belts before taking off in their own cars.

Tell Us Why Your Mom is the Best and Deserves the Best

Thu, 05 Apr 2007 14:46:57 +0100

You know why you love your Mom, but, does she? As a way of expressing your feelings on paper, write a 300-word essay on why she should be featured in The Magazine of Santa Clarita. Many years ago, English artist, James Abbott McNeill Whistler painted a portrait of his mother, you know the one, paint your own memory with words in a heart-felt story about your Mom.

Living and Painting in the Tuscan Sun

Thu, 05 Apr 2007 14:45:31 +0100

June Carey is a painter who had the dream to live in one of her paintings, in an Italian villa. That dream recently became reality when in 2006, Carey found her Dream villa in Vitiano, Italy. June wanted to be surrounded by landscapes and sunflower fields that has for years depicted in her Italian landscapes and now she is there, at her Villa in the Spring, Summer and some of the Fall months, painting in her new home and she loves being surrounded by the beauty.

Adopt a Family: Crystal, Destiny and Eziekiel

Thu, 05 Apr 2007 14:44:03 +0100

The Magazine of Santa Clarita is starting a new monthly column, featuring less fortunate children who need the love and support of a family. Open your hearts and home to these children. If you think you can take on the challenges of raising them, who knows, you may be surprised by how they add and enrich your family with all of the love and appreciation they will shower you, if only they could be adopted and given a permanent home.

Eat a Basket of Daisies

Thu, 05 Apr 2007 14:42:51 +0100

The birth of spring, tasty dinners and families coming together are all tell-tale signs that the Easter and Passover season are here. If you’re looking for a unique hostess gift or a new look for your table, try using an arrangement of fruit, that’s right, fruit, not flowers for a change of pace.

Half Way There

Thu, 05 Apr 2007 14:41:30 +0100

Has it really been 5 months already? Time has definitely flown by. It feels like just yesterday when I was running around the house with that pregnancy test. Now I am half way through my pregnancy. I still can’t believe it. Anyways, this month has been great. I feel fantastic and I have lots of energy, which is always a plus. Sometimes I forget that I am pregnant.

Our Teacher of the Month Treats Her Students Like Her Own Children

Thu, 05 Apr 2007 14:37:35 +0100

Thanks to the keen observation and nomination by Bob Brauneisen, Principal of Northlake Hills Elementary School, The Magazine of Santa Clarita is honoring Sheila Tanenbaum for her excellence in teaching. Here is what Brauneisen had to say about Tannenbaum:

Chariot Takes Prophet in Whirlwind of Fire

Thu, 01 Mar 2007 10:08:38 +0100

Prepare yourself to be hurled into a drama of Biblical proportions. The Santa Clarita Master Chorale at the College of the Canyons Center will perform Elijah, by Felix Mendelssohn, for the Performing Arts, Sunday, March 18, 2007, at 3:30 p.m. A pre-concert lecture by Artistic Director Allan Robert Petker will be at 2:30 p.m. Felix Mendelssohn was hailed as a second Mozart for his musical gifts. Like Mozart, he also died young, at the age of 38. He wrote and premiered Elijah in ...

Home Videos, Are Your Memories Fading Away?

Thu, 01 Mar 2007 10:08:38 +0100

Research shows that Camcorder tapes last only 12 Years on average. DVD is the best solution for preserving your irreplaceable memories. Did you know that your home videos are only expected to last about 12 years? Imagine the disappointment when you attempt to watch your wedding video on your 15th anniversary only to find out it’s ruined. If you are like most camcorder users, you’ve probably noticed that your older tapes are fading away, don’t worry, now ...

Pre-Digital Camera Days Revisited and Relished

Thu, 01 Mar 2007 10:08:38 +0100

Glenn Marshall loves cameras. No, really, it’s not just that he loves them, but, he loves the history and evolution of them and collects them with a passion some might find a slight bit fanatical. With more than 250 of them in his collection, including some rare ones that date back to the 1800s, he talks about them like they are his own children. His knowledge of the history of cameras is broad.

Community Service Club Up and Running

Thu, 01 Mar 2007 10:08:38 +0100

The Aktion Club is a newly chartered community service club and is providing adults with disabilities an opportunity to develop initiative and leadership skills to serve the community. So far, 27 charter members are active and membership continues to grow. In December, the club provided two huge baskets of food for needy families in the Santa Clarita Valley. Future projects may include working with seniors, park clean-up and helping with other community projects.

Top Publisher Represented at Local Art Gallery

Thu, 01 Mar 2007 10:08:38 +0100

As business owners for 26 years, we really appreciate representing our gallery as a dealer of The Greenwich Workshop. They operate their art publishing company with the highest integrity and service of all the companies we have ever worked with in the art business. Scott Usher, President of Greenwich Workshop, really takes care of his art gallery network and insures that we get the highest quality art to offer to our customers.

The MagazineÃ¢ÂÂs March Photo Contest Winner

Thu, 01 Mar 2007 10:08:38 +0100

Congratulations to Crystal Moore of Canyon Country. This stunning image of her youngest daughter, Bailey is a sight to behold as is the fact that the butterfly seemed to be posing for the photo. Moore said it followed her daughter around the front yard and waited until she went inside to get her camera and return. Must have been some kind of Hollywood butterfly, waiting for its close-up. Moore is the talented photographer and lucky winner of this month’s photo conte ...

Treasured Memories

Thu, 01 Mar 2007 08:53:11 +0100

Have you ever heard people say, “Where have the years gone?” We all are growing older and have so many memories to preserve. Family, friends, teachers, coaches, they play such a significant role in our lives. So why not scrapbook your memories? Many people are afraid to try this hobby because they feel they just are not artistically inclined. However, in today’s scrapbook world many companies have taken the intimidation away.

Cutie Pie Prints Deliver a Long-Lasting Memory

Thu, 01 Mar 2007 08:53:11 +0100

If your could only hold and see your loved one’s hands forever, hmm, there’s a novel idea. But, how is that possible?
Valencia entrepreneur Lisa Brewster has it covered, in clay, that is. Brewster makes handcrafted ceramic impressions of hands and feet for newborn babies all the way up to seniors.

Helpful Wedding Hints From A to Z

Thu, 01 Mar 2007 08:53:11 +0100

Since weddings all begin with the engagement ring, Ginger has helped with planning thousands of weddings. One day a customer told her she should be a wedding planner. Ginger shares her knowledge as a complimentary service to her customers.

How Fast Would You Like to Leave the Laundromat?

Thu, 01 Mar 2007 08:53:11 +0100

You can get out of the laundromat faster now than ever before. Some laundromats can get you in and out in four minutes and that’s pretty fast. And some are super easy, offering washing, drying and folding services. Now you’ll reclaim your weekends. It’s the fastest way to get your weekly laundry done.

God-Given Vision Can Change Your Life