Our Valley August

AUGUST 2014

SANTA CLARITA

BACK TO SCHOOL LETTER TO MY

GRANDDAUGTHER

TO BE THE REUNION A Novel by Charles L Freeman, Jr.

Jack’s Story:

Raising Awareness to DIPG by Assemblyman

Scott Wilk Ask Amy: About Anything Subscribe at: www.ourvalleygroup.com

23620 Lyons Ave Newhall, CA 91321

24240 Valencia Blvd Santa Clarita, CA 91355

18710 Soledad Canyon Rd Canyon Country, CA 91351

IN THIS

ISSUE

Our Community

Difference Makers Letter to My Granddaughter to Be Belleza Back to School!

Health & Wellness Arts & Entertainment La Cocina Jack’s Story Ask Amy

OUR

The Reunion, by Charles L. Freeman, Jr.

STAFF

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Publisher Editor in Chief Associate Editor Copy Editor Art Design Photography Account Executives Customer Service

Our Valley Group, LLC, CEO Patsy Ayala Bill Miranda Debi Acker-Zolnoski Virginia Miranda ER Graphics, CEO Erika Rojas Brooke Ritter Patsy Ayala, Francisco Del Rio Jeimy Morales Dardon

COLUMNISTS

CONTRIBUTORS

Steve Knight Scott Wilk Byron Alvarado Jennifer Ramos Karen Wainie Laurie Morgan Arif Halaby Moazzem Chowdhury

Dante Acosta Gillian Lopez DaAnne Smith Bill Miranda Debi Acker-Zolnoski Amy Daniels Charles L. Freeman, Jr.

EDITORIAL

SPECIAL FROM COUNCIL MEMBER DANTE ACOSTA

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ne of the biggest work projects at City Hall is the annual City budget. I’m happy to let you know that Santa Clarita is a fiscally-conservative city with a 100% track record for a balanced ontime budget; an 18% reserve fund; and a Triple A credit rating.

You may also be pleased to know that our City is focusing time and resources on maintaining and improving older areas in the City, increasing our operating reserves, and taking a futuristic approach to managing our City.

Soon you will see the start of construction for the widening of the bridge over SR14 at Golden Valley Road, adding new traffic lanes and bike lanes. We also have a number of landscape projects around town, service enhancements, and increases in public safety.

The new 2014-15 budget provides funding for: three large median beautification projects in Canyon Country; nearly $11 million for street improvements (overlays and slurry seals) city-wide; design of a tennis complex at Central Park; new trails on Railroad Avenue and Sand Canyon Road; a public-use electric vehicle charging station; more traffic signal synchronization; $1 million for sidewalk repairs city-wide and several arts-related items including an arts master plan, to name some of the new items on our work plan for the coming year.

I want to encourage you to view the entire current budget at the City’s website: www.santa-clarita.com/budget.

Thank you for your interest in our City. Please feel free to email me with your thoughts and ideas at: DAcosta@ santa-clarita.com.

Our Community

By Senator Steve Knight

Big or Small, Thoughtful Legislation Can Have a Positive Impact on Californians

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e often only hear of potentially life-changing bill proposals and laws in the news. Yet, little fixes that may sound trivial to some can also be a big deal to others. I am continually looking for opportunities, both big and small, to strengthen California through job creation and fostering a business-friendly environment.

To that effect, I have proudly authored several bills this year that will have a positive impact on our great state, including a measure recently signed by the Governor that will allow for the creation of hundreds, if not thousands, of jobs in California and billions of dollars to our economy.

That measure is Assembly Bill 2389, of which I am a Principal Co-Author. This new law mirrors the goals I established in my Senate Bill 998, offering an economic incentive package to a subcontractor that is competing for a federal contract to build the U.S. Air Force’s next state-of-the-art strategic aircraft. Although I would rather make our state more business friendly by reducing taxes and regulation for everyone, offering tax credits is one way to attract jobs to our state. AB 2389 takes a unique approach to establishing a tax credit program by providing tax credits only once the contract

has been awarded to a company that actually creates jobs in California in direct result of the new contract. This means there are no unaccountable giveaways, and incentives given unquestionably benefit both the contractor and California.

It may come as no surprise that it can take years for the VA to make a disability status determination. This is a minor change in law, but it can make a big difference for those who fought and paid a price for our freedom.

While AB 2389 addresses a large-scale economic opportunity, my Senate Bill 1113 is a prime example of a small change that will provide great relief for a niche population: This measure ensures that veterans wounded in the defense of our country are not penalized by a slow bureaucratic process.

Working with a variety of industries and working directly with constituents in an effort to make California a better state for business and to respect our most honorable citizens is an exciting and rewarding adventure. We must continually look for and create both large-scale and small opportunities that treat our veterans fairly, strengthen our economy through jobs, foster a reasonable regulatory climate, and create a more equitable tax structure. We may not hear about all of the new laws signed by Governor Brown this year, but many Californians will feel positive changes thanks to thoughtful legislation, and I am pleased to be a part of some of those great changes.

Qualified veterans who receive a 100 percent disability rating from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs are given a special state property tax reduction, but some veterans have to struggle with the federal VA to get this rating in a timely manner or receive a backdated rated. In these cases, veterans are entitled to receive a refund for taxes overpaid; however the current statute of limitation is only four years. SB 1113 allows a disabled veteran to apply for a refund of property taxes paid within the last eight years, instead of the current four, which simply isn’t enough for some veterans to no fault of their own.

Senator Steve Knight (R-Antelope Valley) represents the 21st Senate District in the California Legislature, which includes the communities throughout the Antelope, Santa Clarita and Victor Valleys.

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e c n fere

Dif

Gillian Lopez is a Canyon Country High School graduate. She starred athletically and academically before going on to UC Merced. Here is a condensed version of a letter she sent to her family and friends.

Dear Family and Friends, My wonderful four-year journey at the University of California, Merced has come to an end. It’s a bittersweet feeling. I’ve enjoyed every moment, but I’m also very excited to apply the knowledge I’ve acquired. All of you have played an important role in my life. Family and friends are one of the core foundations to molding an individual’s character. It wasn’t easy to leave home, but I believe it’s a critical aspect of growth and maturity. So first and foremost, thank you for your constant support and love. It has kept me motivated and strong.

This University was the right choice for me.

I’ve accomplished more than I could have ever imagined. I truly feel blessed for all the opportunities that were so graciously presented to me. The people in this community are genuinely kind. The simple things in life can

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: s r e Mak

Gillian Lopez bring someone so much joy and inner peace.

I like the gorgeous blood orange sunsets that set over the fields. During my freshman year I worked part-time as a Management Career Consultant for my University’s Career Center.

I had the great privilege to mentor students in career and professional development. After one year, I was promoted to Team Lead. The following year I assisted 10 undergraduates with solidifying a job, internship or career. I absolutely loved my job and everything about it.

I got involved with student life. I rushed Delta Delta Delta an international fraternity for women and associated with St. Jude Children’s Hospital. I value the friendships I made and leadership opportunities afforded me. Serving as sorority President taught me to be a stronger woman. I became better at managing conflict and confrontation.

That year I was accepted into a National Greek Honor Society for maintaining a 3.5+ cumulative GPA. I had the honor to be asked by the Vice Chancellor of Student Affairs to sit in on a million dollar donor meeting for

a leadership program, which was granted!

There are many more wonderful memories to share, but these are the ones that have made a true impact on my life.

I am ending my college with a bang! I am graduating with honors and obtained two paid internships my last semester. My first was with the Office of Development and Alumni Relations as an Events Specialist Intern where I assisted planning donor events and the 2014 Commencement. My second is with a local winery called Vista Ranch and Cellars. I made a decision to work with them as their Marketing and Events Intern because they offered a substantial opportunity to grow. My position responsibilities are to create advertisements, manage social media platforms and coordinate public events.

If you haven’t already guessed, events and marketing is a field that I love. Thank you mom and dad for giving me the greatest gift of all time: my education. Four years went by in a blink of an eye, but I am ready to conquer the next chapter of my life!

With love, Gillian

Difference Makers

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riginally founded in 1994 as a peer support organization, by 2007 Single Mothers Outreach (SMO) was a defunct organization. The founder/Executive Director had been removed by the Board, and the organization’s sole offering - as a drop-in center - was no longer viable because of its location and lack of staff.

The Board recruited DaAnne Smith as the new Executive Director, and

her first day revealed a locked office space, a few boxes filled with materials, and a computer. Her initial review of the organization’s belongings revealed uncashed grant checks because the organization hadn’t even been unable to fulfill the few simple programs it had received support for. Under these daunting circumstances, DaAnne reconceived and redesigned SMO into a comprehensive service provider in a region with exploding numbers of single parents.

Today, DaAnne and Single Mothers Outreach have served more than 2,500 needy single parents – helping one woman, one family at a time - through services that address housing, employment, mental health, parenting, finances, education, food, empowerment,

and social support. DaAnne’s vision and can-do efforts have brought regional attention to the plight of single mothers through significant grant support from important philanthropists, recognition as “One of the 51 Most Important People in Santa Clarita,” (The Signal Newspaper) and a significant cultural reach into what is the 3rd largest city in vast Los Angeles County.

DaAnne can clearly be credited as “founding” the pivotal organization that Single Mothers Outreach is today and trailblazing an organization that is now pursued for duplication into other regions in the United States.

DaAnne

Smith 9

Santa Clarita School of Performing Arts

by Lono Woodley

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Bella Stine

David McKee Jr.

or those of you who feel you have to leave the Santa Clarita area to receive “professional” training as an actor, think again. The SCV has one of the best allinclusive schools for an actor from the beginner to the most advanced. I know, because I have participated in many of the “other” classes from some of the best known “teachers” in the LA area, and although every one of those teachers had something wonderful to offer in their classes, none of them offer the same services offered at Santa Clarita School of Performing Arts (SCSOPA). Now I’m back at SCSOPA, after working on more than 70 projects, including TV, film, shorts, features and voiceovers, and I’m happily paying approximately half of what I paid in some of the other classes that I was taking that I thought would get me more recognized. Not! From the first day, I felt a sense of hominess and acceptance while attending SCSOPA. From the first person you talk to on the phone,

generally Paige, Craig, Lynn or Mike to arrange the easy and affordable payments, to each of the teachers, Matt, Al, Debbie, Emily and DeAnn, there is not only an extreme sense of professionalism, but also a warmth and sense of belonging that permeates the entire scope of SCSOPA. Whether your talent is dancing, singing, voiceover and/or acting, the technique and skill building opportunities at SCSOPA abound. They also recognize that many adult actors work during the day, so they offer these incredible classes in the evening. Believe me, after participating in the many classes that I have taken in, and around, Hollywood, the thought of being home 15 minutes after a full “workout” of emotions in acting class is the crème de la crème.

Lono Woodley is a SAG/AFTRA actor whose credits can be found on IMDB and is available to any director who might read this column.

David McKee III

Noah Visconti

Letter to My Granddaughter to Be

By Bill Miranda

Dear Granddaughter to Be: Welcome to the new America! I’m so excited to tell you about it. I know you won’t understand any of this now, but when you do you’re going to love it.

I’m your grandfather. You can call me Grandpa. It sounds good in both English and Spanish.

The new America abounds with opportunities for all its citizens. You, my Little Treasure, can be a butcher, a baker, a candlestick maker and much, much more. You can be a teacher, a nurse, a bookkeeper and much, much more. How about becoming a principal, doctor or CEO? How about an actor, a dancer, a painter or writer? Yup, you can do all those things in the new America.

It wasn’t always that way. Your Grandma didn’t have those opportunities. You see, Grandma was a Latino woman. Oh, she had opportunities too.

She could aspire to be a secretary, teacher or nurse. That was pretty much it. So she worked hard, studied hard and became a secretary. Then through the years she was able to become a teacher. Wow! What a woman!

Compared to Grandma, your mother had it better.

She got to play all kinds of sports in school and very few doors were not open to her. However, she had to work very hard to accomplish all that she has. Sports? Practice! Practice! Practice! College?

Study! Study! Study! Career? Work! Work! Work!

Family? Well, you’re child number three and your parents have been happily married five years. Your mother is a superwoman who has done all those things. Being a Latino woman hasn’t hindered her very much, thank God. In the new America you won’t have to deal nearly as much with sexism, racism, classism, ageism, nationalisms, ableism or religious prejudice. The new America is a multicultural blend of its people and its history that allows its citizens to celebrate

and embrace diversity of thought, actions and being. And if God chooses to make you one of His very special people, a person of need, you can still do pretty much anything anyone else can do and many times even better. And this is the most exciting part of all: in the new American when a mother tells her daughter she can be anything she wants to be … it will be true!

Pioneers have already carved out paths for you to take in your life. CEO, Principal, Mayor, Member of Congress, Astronaut! And much, much more are all paved for you. All you have to do is follow the Golden Rule, honor your family and your country, learn as much as possible, be as dedicated as you can and enjoy everything you do.

I’ll be there to guide you every step of the way.

When God calls me I’ll still be there in spirit. You can conference with me any time you want. I’m so excited I’m bubbling over with pride. It’s all about you and the new America!

Lots of love and hugs, Grandpa!

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Learning to Draw and Paint

By Virginia Miranda, Artist

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any people have the misconception that they have to be born with “talent” to draw or paint skillfully.

Not so! Drawing and painting can be learned like anything else. Start from the beginning, one step at a time, and you’ll be amazed at what you’re able to do. Granted, you need to be told what the steps are and be given demonstrations along the way, but isn’t that true of anything else we learn? Whether it’s a

language, a sport or how to drive, being shown the way is necessary. The key ingredient required to succeed is “desire.”

That’s all we require at Artworks Studio.

Most of our students start with a desire to learn and a love of

drawing. We teach one step at a time, beginning with sketching and leading ultimately into oil painting. For many students, it is recreational; for others, a hobby. Yet for some it will become a career in some form.

Nevertheless, for all, it will bring an appreciation for art that they will carry throughout their lives.

Some students at Artworks Studio have been attending six years or more. In the past, we hired a few as our assistants and some have gone on to art

colleges both locally and out of state.

Artworks Studio is celebrating its 28th year teaching SCV children, ages six and up, the basics of fine art. We encourage our students in a noncompetitive, fun and relaxed environment.

Our one-on-one nurturing helps to improve their self esteem and artistic expression.

We feel extremely proud of our students’ accomplishments and are honored to have been a part of it.

Back to School Shopping Without Breaking the Bank

Jennifer Ramos, for Nola Aronson’s Advanced Audiology

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Once you come into Advanced Audiology you will notice that we treat you like family. Your hearing care professional will run tests and let you know if there’s a problem. With tinnitus

I Jennifer Ramos

ne fairly common hearing problem is called tinnitus. You know that buzzing feeling in your ears after being exposed to loud noise? For most of us, that goes away pretty quickly. For some people, it’s like a symphony going on in their head; only it’s not a pleasant musical. It could be a whooshing, hissing, whirring or buzzing sound. Tinnitus can develop in the outer, inner or middle ear, and can also stem from a brain abnormality. Some possible causes might be fluid infection of the middle ear bones or ear drum (tympanic membrane), damage to the microscopic endings of the hearing nerve in the inner ear or loud noise exposure. When this happens it’s a good idea to get your hearing checked.

the bad news is there is no cure. The good news is we have devices that are designed to help alleviate the symptoms. It’s just a matter of you giving us a call to answer a few questions.

In most cases you can get a FREE screening that will lead you to a fuller life.

Nola Aronson’s Advanced Audiology has been helping Santa Clarita hear better since 1987.

Advanced Audiology, 23822 Valencia Blvd., Suite 103, Valencia. For more information, please call (661) 505-1135.

Provided by Byron Alvarado courtesy of Massachusetts Mutual Life Insurance Company

t seems like the summer is just getting going, and already it’s time to start thinking about back to school. The children may still be wearing bathing suits, flip flops and sunglasses, but many families are already thinking about books, backpacks and boots. Back to school shopping may also mean whining children and nagging parents arguing over an endless list of electronics, expensive sneakers, and the like.

This year, instead of frustration, opt for cooperation from your school-aged kids. Back-toschool time is the big buying season for them, so take the opportunity to teach lessons about budgeting. Since the purchases will be for them, they have a vested interest in paying attention!

Begin by explaining the difference between needs and wants. A need is something you have to have, while a want is something optional. Uniforms, if your child’s school requires them, are a need. Shoes are a need. A name-brand purse or a video game, on the other hand, is a want.

Next, explain that resources, such as money and time, are limited. There are only 24 hours in a day. An hour may be spent sleeping, working, studying, or playing. Or shopping! But the time spent on shopping is time not spent on other activities.

Likewise, money is limited.

Depending on the family, there may be a little or a lot of it, but it’s not infinite. A dollar spent on one thing, is not available to be spent on anything else.

With this idea in mind, develop a budget. Decide how much money is available for back-

to-school purchases. Here’s where your kids may surprise you with their adaptability and cleverness. If their hearts are set on a couple of “wants,” they may be very flexible about other things. They may willingly accept hand-medowns from older siblings or friends, be willing to talk to the coach about using donated equipment from last season, or consider renting rather than buying a musical instrument.

Don’t forget to heap on the praise and encouragement for your children’s hard work.

If they’re acting grown-up and responsible, be sure to comment on it. And notice how well they take care of their things when they’ve had to work and plan to get them!

Manage Spending Wisely and Incorporate the Values into Your Family’s Finances While your family thinks about back to school budgeting and plans, consider applying those same skills on your household’s finances. To learn more or access helpful materials, speak with a local financial professional or visit www.massmutual.com/ family.

Byron Alvarado

Is that the phone,or are my ears ringing?

© 2013 Massachusetts Mutual Life Insurance Company, Springfield, MA 01111-0001

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BELLEZA

Mirror, Mirror on the Wall

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irror, mirror on the wall what does it take to be beautiful? Well it starts with good skin. That is your largest organ and the first thing others see of you. Not everyone can have great skin, but practically everyone can have good skin. That means keeping it clean with good soaps and cleansers. Then you want to use a good moisturizer and, if you’re like me, anti aging cream. Invest a little extra in them because the payback is more than worth it.

Make sure you use the best foundations and make up for eyes, cheeks and lips to enhance what the good Lord gave you.

What about hair and body? No problem! Just use good shampoos and conditioners and make sure you have a good hair dresser who is good with color and cutting and who gives you the cut/style/color you want. After all, a gal has to have super shiny, thick gorgeously styled and colored hair! As for the body, … ah, the body … the God given body. There isn’t much we can do to change it, but there is much we can do to keep it

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By Virginia Miranda slim, firm and perky in the right places like the good ole days.

Better skip that dessert and head for the gym and don’t forget the mani pedi appointment!

Are we getting the picture here girls? All this is well and good, but don’t forget what’s beneath all this: YOU! Your inner beauty radiates so much more than anything you put on your face or body. Always try to feel good about yourself and be confident and proud of who you are. Self confidence is the quickest way to “look beautiful.”

We are all blessed with gifts we may not even realize we have.

We have so much more to offer others less fortunate than we are. Being a true friend and a considerate daughter and granddaughter warms many hearts including ours.

The next time you look in the mirror, look a little deeper and see the inner beauty you possess.

Back to School!

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By Debi Acker-Zolnoski

t’s that time of year again!

Back to school days are fast approaching. The anticipation of making new friends, doing back to school shopping and will you like your teacher are creating sleepless nights and stomach butterflies all day long for our kids. And it isn’t just the kids that are nervous. Parents and teachers share the anticipation too!

Whether kids are just starting preschool, as my grandson Dylan, or starting Senior year of high school, it doesn’t matter the age; most kids and their parents are consumed by thoughts of who will they meet, what will they wear and how will they fit in with their teachers. So let’s start with

Dylan first day of Kindergarten who will they meet? Kids! Lots of kids!

Big kids, little kids, boy kids and girl kids and lots of them! Sometimes the kids will be very friendly (my grandson Dylan had a preschool romance) and sometimes not so much (you know who you are!), but mostly kids will be kids and the more the merrier!

Then there is the issue of back to school shopping. If you listen to conversations among kids you will be enlightened. Today’s kids talk about smart phones, tablets, Bey Blades, uploaded music, super-hero toys and the latest movies on Netflix. We used to talk about buying pencils, erasers (lots of them in my case) and notebooks.

And don’t even go there with the way kids talk about clothes. Ouch! Before you start your buying spree you may want to read Byron Alvarado’s column (page 13) on back to school shopping without breaking the bank. Left to their own accord, kids will drive parents to the poor house!

Taya and Dylan

Finally there are the teachers. Ah, yes, the teachers. Love them or loath them there is no leave them. Mostly they are “on probation” with kids and parents the first week or two. Then the decisions are made. But it doesn’t matter. There is no leaving them. Make the best of it!

Darby LaPlant

leave at lunch and get whatever I want to eat. I’m thinking donuts. Plus all the time with great friends; going to movies, having pool parties, or just hanging out. Already I’m seeing my senior year and despite all the anxiety that may come from planning my future, I know when I’m standing on that stage at COC, receiving my diploma, I’ll be grinning from ear to ear.

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By Ellie Schaub

or me, back to school is about setting goals. I’m going into my second year of high school and I want to enjoy it, learn a lot from it and get really good at my sports.

So here are my goals.

First, I want to get a high GPA. I said high instead of a specific number because I want to work as hard as I can and know that I gave it my best. In order to get a high GPA I have to be well organized, pay lots of attention in class and do the work!

Next, I want to excel in my sports. Again, no specific numbers, but just to be the best that I can be. That too requires organization (time to work out; time to practice; eating right and sleeping right). It also requires that I work as hard in practice as I do on game day. I play team sports: soccer and basketball. My goal is not just an individual goal, but a

team goal. Help the team do everything I can to succeed.

Finally, my last goal is to have no regrets. I will make memories with every moment I spend with friends, teachers, teammates and yes, even parents.

Ok, that was a joke. Having no regrets involves trying new things, making mistakes and learning from them and becoming a better person because of them. If I stay true to myself and make every day a good one, I will be happy.

Back to School!

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esterday I was starting school for the first time.

Kindergarten, 7th grade, freshman year, it’s all flown by so fast. Soon I’ll be starting my last year in high school. Unlike my whimsical childhood summers, this one is consumed by summer assignments and college planning.

College: that big open door into the world. From what I’ve heard, college applications are what make senior year go by in a blur. Should I retake the SAT? ACT? Where do I really want to go? What if I’m not accepted?

Questions upon questions running through my head, but these fears for the future will not detract from the perks of being a senior. Since seniors register first, I’ll have a better chance of getting all the classes I want. I can

By Darby LaPlant

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Health

& Wellness

By Karen Wainie, CEO Love Your Life Wellness

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Even though I followed an extensive exercise and nutritional program, there was something missing: education about toxins being used every day in my home and on my body. They can affect the overall health of our bodies. We’re talking about your cleaning products and laundry detergents, but much more than that.

It’s the toothpaste you use or the special lotion you apply several times a day to your largest organ (skin). I often hear, “If it’s sold in the grocery stores, it must be safe, right?” Unfortunately that is NOT the case. The average person is exposed to 70,000 chemical toxins a day! Toxin exposure and the lack of getting them out of your body is a huge part of your overall wellness. They may be the reason you have headaches, low energy and weight gain or your children have allergies, asthma, or any autoimmune disease. But, the best part is YOU have control on what brands you purchase and what you bring into your home.

There is a way to shop for higher quality products, safer & eco-friendly ingredients LESS cost than the retail brands (including Costco) and delivered right to your door, could that make a difference in your family’s life? Love Your Life Wellness specializes in helping

families save time & money while living a better quality of life!

Here are 5 tips to getting and staying healthy: 1. Schedule time to exercise 2. Plan your meals; make large portions & freeze 3. Set goals: reward yourself accordingly 4.Drink your body weight in water daily!

5. Free up 2 extra hours a week so you can do #1-4 How do you do you free 2 hours a week? Shop online for up to 70 % of your household consumables and call Love Your Life Wellness today to start completing your Wellness Circle! Love Your Life, So it can love you back!

Karen Wainie

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LOVE to talk wellness. I am fortunate to be in a business that helps others complete their Wellness Circle.

Wellness is an active process through which people become aware of, and make choices toward, a more successful existence. The Wellness Circle includes the following dimensions: Physical, Environmental, Personal and Financial. What’s most important to you?

This month I thought I would share information to help you achieve the first two parts of the Wellness Circle.

Over the past 30 years, I have made health and fitness a main priority in my life. However, until four years ago, my wellness circle was not complete.

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

The Arts in My Opinion

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’ve been telling you for months that there is plenty of art in Santa Clarita; both visual and performance. One of my personal favorites is the Jazz and Blues Concert Series on Town Center Drive. It features entertainers in a family friendly, quaint street party setting, and has been going on for 15 years! It’s FREE and it runs June-July. So make sure you look for it next year if you missed it this year.

In addition there are many other free art events in Santa Clarita – all year round.

There are Concerts in Central Park, The Gallery of Santa Clarita Artists’ Association, Art Slam and Senses in Downtown Newhall and concerts in Towsley Canyon. Take a selfguided tour of Santa Clarita’s public art or step back in time and visit Tesoro Adobe Park where the spirit of Western movies lives on in Santa Clarita. Go to historic Hart Park for the annual Hart of the West POW WOW in September. This event draws tribal members from all over the United States to Southern California for contest dancing, drummers, Native American arts and crafts, games and food. Want more? Check out this website: http://visitsantaclarita.com/

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Laurie Morgan – Visual and Performing Artist

plan/50-free-things-to-do/.

I’m currently NOT in a play, which means I get to see “Return to the Forbidden Planet” at The REP, “Forever Plaid” at the Canyon Theatre, and “Shrek” at the PAC. And I have some art exhibited at The Gallery of SCAA on Town Center Drive. I’m hosting there Sunday, August 17th 1-4pm and again Friday, August 22nd 6-9pm and would love to show you around this spacious and stunning Gallery. So come by and say “hi”.

Looking for ideas to help enhance your children’s academic curriculum once school starts? What’s better than to explore the art and history of the film industry in Santa Clarita Valley? Here’s a good place to get started: http://scvhistory.com/scvhistory/ film.htm.

I see why Santa Clarita’s motto is “Live, Work, Play”, when we have so much to see and do right here – in my opinion.

For Your Viewing Pleasure: Canyon Theatre Guild 24242 Main St. Newhall July 26 – August 24, 2014: Forever Plaid August 2 – August 24, 2014: Shrek (at PAC) 661.799.2702 www.canyontheatre.org

Repertory East Playhouse 24266 Main St. Newhall July 11 – August 15, 2014: Return to the Forbidden Planet August 22-30, 2014: An Adult Evening of Shel Silverstein 661.288.0000 www.repeastplayhouse.org Santa Clarita Performing Arts Center 26455 Rockwell Canyon Rd, Santa Clarita, CA 91355 Various Performances and Events www3.canyons.edu/Offices/PIO/CanyonsPAC/ The Gallery of SCAA (across from Sisley’s) 24251 Town Center Drive #110 Valencia July 11 – August 31, 2014: “Summertime Blues” Wine Reception on Friday Aug 1, 6-9pm www.santaclaritaartists.org OutWest Western Boutique and Cultural Center 22508 6th Street, Newhall (661) 255-7087 www.outwestmktg.com/events/live-music. cfm

GIVING BACKpacks

By Gloria Locke

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hew - where did the summer go? Is it back to school time already? Off we go to beat the crowd to find that most important item of the backto-school rush. That’s right, a backpack. But for some families, school totes will not make the priority list when the decision is between a pair of shoes and a backpack. I remember what I’ve been saying to the kids all summer, “Sharing is caring.”

Purchasing one additional backpack and filling it with supplies for a local child was suggested by our local church. As I scanned the aisles, pricing new backpacks, I was pleasantly surprised to find reasonably priced stylish totes from $9.99 to $15.99 for elementary aged children. Super, I could do this for $20 with school supplies included and a few special art supplies, too!

Help a child start their education with flying colors - including markers, pens, paper, and a backpack - for children of single moms, foster children, and at-risk kids who will feel your love on their first day of school. It can be a fun family time having the kids shop for someone else while prepping their own gear.

Backpacks can be dropped off at Real Life Church in Valencia, 23841 Newhall Ranch Rd, Valencia, CA 91355, Phone: (661) 775-7401, Hours: 9:00 am – 5:00 pm and Savia in Newhall, 23780 Newhall Ave, Newhall, CA 91321, Phone:(661) 705-4710, Hours: 9:00 am – 5:00 pm.

Gloria

Locke

If you have a new or gently used backpack to donate, or if you know someone who would greatly benefit from a backpack, please help ease their Back to School burden.

La Cocina

My Visit to Olive Terrace Café

by Debi Acker-Zolnoski

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hen dining locally with friends, not having the same taste preferences, I found the Olive Terrace Café to encompass a wide variety of appetizing cuisine. The ambiance of the décor is comfortingly tranquil. A private event room is available for no-charge, as well as comfortable outside dining alongside a waterfall.

The Olive Terrace Café, formerly George’s Bistro, is located within the Gateway Village Shopping on Newhall Ranch Road.

The new owner retained George’s staff, while introducing highly creative Chef Jim to work alongside Chef Alfonso.

The kitchen prepares healthy Mediterranean-style organic cuisine, infused with an Italian, Greek and Spanish flair. Gluten free dishes are available, and the children’s menu offers meals for $6.95, featuring American dishes, such as Burgers, Mac & Cheese, and Chicken Tenders, also available in larger adult portions.

Managers Jonathan and Sunny will soon introduce additional

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items to its admired former George’s Bistro menu that states: “Same great food with a twist, and new management.” Featuring a variety of falafel burgers, eggplant dishes, hummus, caviar and desserts, etc., guest favorites; such as Paella Valencia, Chicken Chipotle, Herb-Crusted Sea Bass, pastas, healthy salads and delicious soups (my favorite Clam Chowder), are still available.

The Olive Terrace Café is creating delicious libations in addition to the famous Watermelon Jolly Rancher, and Bistro Berry Blast. With attractive décor, the full-bar seats twenty-four, and.

Monday thru Friday Happy Hours are from 4PM to 7PM, and serves complimentary snacks and appetizers. No wonder it has quickly become a favorite SCV social gathering place, especially on Thursdays for Martini Night!

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Do You Have All Of Your Financial “Eggs” In One Basket?

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By Arif Halaby o you remember when your mother or grandmother told you not to put all of your “eggs” in one basket? Well my mother grew up on a farm and they had chickens, pigs and cows, and everyday it was someone’s job to go to the chicken coup and collect the eggs. Sometimes, they would even go twice a day. When she was walking back to the house with the entire day’s worth of eggs in one basket, she knew she had to be very careful. In fact, even though all of the eggs could fit in one basket, she would split up the days haul and make several trips, just in case she happened to drop the basket.

Wisdom from those farm days still holds true today when talking about your financial life. When a big part of your retirement monthly income is coming from one source, it might be time to split up your financial “eggs”. Too many people have more of their retirement assets in the market then is suit-

the money after you pass away. Lastly, ask about having your ‘rest of your life’ money in a safe place, away from the market declines.

able for them. Understandably, it has been a ‘great’ place to be the last few years. However, if you plan on your retirement lasting more than a few years then maybe you should take a longer-term view.

Remember the ‘dot com’ bubble or the ‘real estate’ bubble? Those folks preparing to retire were in for a rude awakening. Plans for many had to be delayed or even downright canceled. Many “guarantees” turned out to not be guarantees at all. To avoid making this same mistake make sure you ask questions about when and how you can take out your income. Be aware of what happens to

Splitting up your accounts into various sources of income and principle protection is what has insured many retirees to actually have what they expect to have during their retirement years. Sometimes, it is our spouses’ retirement future that we need to secure.

If you are the one who has made the plans and then die first, what happens after that?

Have a plan in place that protects you and your spouses’ standard of living. Many experts say inflation is coming. Remember the late 1970’s and early 1980’s? Interest rates for cars and homes were over 15%. Some rates were as high as 21%! Make sure you consider annuities as a part of your retirement strategy and remember that not all are the same. Some may have market risk and still charge you a fee. Know what you are buying or investing in and make sure it works for you. Think twice before you put all your eggs in one basket.

Jack’s Story: Raising Awareness to Diffuse Intrinsic Pontine Glioma

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in Jack’s name: “The Jack’s Angels Foundation.” The Demeter’s, Jack’s story, and the purpose of the foundation had recently been brought to my attention when I met Janet Demeter at a Santa Clarita Valley Chamber of Commerce Dinner.

iffuse Intrinsic Pontine Glioma or (DIPG), is a terminal brain disease illness that affects children aged 5 to 10 years of age. Children diagnosed with the disease usually have a remaining lifespan between 5 to 9 months. Diffuse Intrinsic Pontine Glioma can be found in 10 out of every 100 brain tumors in children, but constitutes about 80% of deaths resulting from brain tumors.

The diagnosis is always a grim one and to date there is no cure or treatment for this class of childhood brain tumors.

The families and communities affected by this disease have taken action to raise awareness, after the heartwrenching loss of one tiny community member in Santa Clarita named “Jack.”

James-William Gregory Demeter, or “Jack,” was born August 30, 2008. The blonde-haired, vibrantly blue-eyed little Jack was a happy, upbeat toddler who loved letters, numbers, and especially the playground and beach. Noted for his endearing smile and calm demeanor as a baby, Jack easily enchanted everyone he came in contact with.

Around Jack’s 3rd birthday, his parents began noticing that his speech was regressing, sparking concern over his health. After being referred to Los

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By Assemblyman Scott Wilk

Touched by Janet’s story, I decided there needed to be a greater awareness about the debilitating illness. I introduced an Assembly Concurrent Resolution which deemed the week of May 25-31 as Diffuse Intrinsic Pontine Glioma Awareness Week.

Angeles Children’s Hospital on October 24, 2011, the Demeter’s received a shocking diagnosis that would change their lives forever: their beloved son Jack had Diffuse Intrinsic Pontine Glioma.

The Demeter’s began working effortlessly to search for answers to help their son. They tried everything from naturopathic and holistic medicine, to brain antioxidants-trying to help aid the treatment process and make Jack as comfortable as possible. On July 30, 2012 after a 9 month battle, Jack succumbed to Diffuse Intrinsic Pontine Glioma.

Heartbroken over the loss of her son, Janet Demeter created an organization

The “Jack’s Angels Foundation,” is an organization aimed toward awareness, support, and research for Diffuse Intrinsic Pontine Glioma. DIPG has been one of the most under researched types of brain tumors, going hand-inhand with childhood brain tumors’ dark history of being underfunded.

I hope this legislative resolution raises awareness of DIPG and encourages new research efforts to treat and cure this devastating disease.

If interested in learning more about for Diffuse Intrinsic Pontine Glioma and Jack’s Angels Foundation, please visit http://jacksangelsfoundation. com/ or contact Janet directly at JacksAngels1@gmail.com or 661-9773125.

Ask

Amy SCV

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ello Santa Clarita and welcome to Ask Amy SCV! I am here for you, my people! I am a native New Yorker and have lived in many other cities across this beautiful country, including twenty year’s worth right here in the SCV. You can be sure that I will be honest and direct with you, but no offense is ever intended. Sit back, strap yourself in and join me on this adventure! Send me questions at askamyscv@gmail.com.

Dear Amy, I just got transferred here from New York. We loved the culture there and love going into LA for the culture there too, but are there cultural things we can do here in Santa Clarita? Help!

Debbie in Saugus Dear Debbie, You really ARE my people! Welcome to the SCV, Boobie. Honestly, New York it ain’t, but you will find that what we have here in Santa Clarita is a wonderful, insulated gem of beauty - a great place to raise kids and enjoy a wonderful community within easy reach of LA. There are lots of places to check out what’s going on locally each week, including our hometown station, KHTS (hometownstation. com) and local TV station, SCVTV (scvtv.com). Be sure to check out what’s going on at COC Performing Arts Center (canyonspac. com), the Repertory Theater (repeastplayhouse.org) and Canyon Theatre Guild (canyontheatre.org). The summer is especially fun, with concerts at Central Park (arts.santa-clarita.com/events/ concerts-in-the-park) and Jazz on Town Center Drive in front of the Hyatt (valenciajazzandblues.com). Did you know we have Shakespeare in the Park, too? Check it out at scshakespearefest. org.

Straight Tawk: Honey, trust me. Bored you won’t get – you’re a New Yorker, for Pete’s sake – get online and make it happen!

Dear Amy, I love my wife, but she just doesn’t understand me. We have hit a rut. Neither of us wants to end up apart. How can we rekindle the flame?

Bob in Valencia Dear Bobby, Oy Vey!!! Let me tell you, I completely understand you! If I was standing in front of you I would take your punum in my hand(no,

it doesn’t mean THAT) and tell you there is hope, my friend!

Having been there myself, I can tell you that you have the key to the castle, Honey – you LOVE your wife! How many couples do we know that can’t even say that about each other anymore? Now, of COURSE she doesn’t understand you…you are a man (I’m sorry, you can’t help it). And she is a woman. I don’t know how long you have been married (I’m in my third decade and some days we’re talkin’ about a hundred years, the way it feels,) but we all grow in different ways at different times and our goals evolve over time – often not in sync with each other. I hope you stay and fight for her, for you, for your marriage and the memories you share – find a therapist NOW!! Make sure you trust them and feel comfortable with them; if they don’t fit the bill after a few sessions, find another one! Rut??? I don’t think I know any couple that hasn’t hit any of those and, with constructive help, you can get through them as long as there is a shared desired for the same outcome. Find someone who will give you advice, not expect you to find all the answers yourself – sometimes you really need the guidance.

Straight Tawk: Your marriage will only be strengthened by each of you knowing how much you will fight for each other. You sound like a mensch…oy, I’m so proud. Email me confidentially at askamyscv@gmail.com and I will be happy to provide a personal reference (worked for me!)

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The Reunion . Freeman, Jr A novel by Charles L PROLOGUE Music industry executive Lorenzo (Chocks) Taylor awoke drenched in sweat at 4:30 in the morning. Darkness engulfed the master bedroom suite of his palatial, tri-level Hollywood Hills home; his neighborhood of winding streets and secluded houses hidden behind high gates and walls was quiet in the hours before dawn in Los Angeles.

He sat upright in bed, listening to the silence, his mind racing with thoughts of where his life might be headed in the next few weeks.

It was mid-August 2013 and during the coming weekend, he’d be attending his 20-year high school reunion in San Diego, California, an event that Lorenzo was eyeing with a combination of excitement and dread. The former because he’d be seeing his old crew, four guys that he’d known practically all his life and who called him Chocks because of his childhood love of the vitamins of the same name, and the latter because

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harles L. Freeman, Jr is a Los Angeles based writer with over twenty-five years in the entertainment industry. Charles has traveled the world with recording

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Lorenzo realized that this milestone put him just two short years away from the Big 4-0. He’d tried to find out if his old girlfriend, Tina Davis, was attending but so far, her name wasn’t on the list of those who’d registered. Then there was tonight.

For the first time in ten years, Lorenzo was looking for a new job. It wasn’t that he wanted a new job per se; generally speaking, he was happy with his current one. And under normal circumstances, he wouldn’t think of leaving the company where he’d spent the past ten years of his very successful career; a career that had brought Lorenzo a long, long way from his days as a struggling free-lance songwriter/producer.

Unable to fall back asleep as dawn approached, Lorenzo decided to go for a run around near-by Lake Hollywood.

As the sun came up over the city that had been home to him for the past fifteen years, he ran and listened to old-school R&B on his iPhone. Exercise always put Lorenzo in a good frame of

artists such as multiple Grammy Award winners Earth, Wind & Fire and the groundbreaking rapper M.C. Hammer.

Among his many accomplishments include working on Hammer’s landmark album “Please Hammer Don’t Hurt Em”, the first recording to sell ten million units in a calendar year and helping to conceive concert and television appearances that were seen by millions all over the world.

Charles served as the production manager of the NAACP Image Awards Pre-Show in

mind and after logging three miles on the circuitous path around the lake, it was with a much clearer head that he walked home.

As he soaked in his Jacuzzi tub and watched Sports Center on the flatscreen TV mounted on the wall in front of him, Lorenzo was hit with a sudden, electric thought: what would he do if Sylvia Andrews actually offered him a job tonight?

1999 & 2000 and coordinated the show’s first Nominee Luncheon Gala. He is a graduate of Los Angeles Trade Technical College and an Air Force veteran. He is the owner of the Mariposa Entertainment Group in Los Angeles and the author and publisher of the romantic novel, The Reunion, which is available in paperback and Kindle on amazon.com and in paperback on barnesandnoble.com.