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You're First Step to Helping a Child: Virtual Foster Care & Adoption Orientation
The next one-hour virtual orientation to learn how to become a foster parent is on Thursday, March 19 - and it's the first step towards helping local families and children. The demand for safe, loving foster homes is massive - and so is the impact you could make. It takes a special person or family to foster - and information is key.
Email rfrecruitment@all4kids.org to receive a link to the meeting so you can learn more. all4kids.org

"I did some acting and modeling when I was younger, and joining SCSOPA has reinvigorated my enjoyment in these activities. I'm a retired software engineer, so I'm older, but I'm enjoying acting and modeling in my retirement. I'm not in a rush. I'm having fun! My involvement with SCSOPA has given me the confidence to go after and acquire other opportunities. It also gave me confidence to participate in the 2025 'Fab Over 40' competition, where I made it seven of eight rounds. I also recently obtained sponsorship as a verified model and earned a role in a short film that won 'Best Director - Short Films.' I attended the movie showings at multiple film festivals and was on the red carpet - and those experiences did not disappoint! I want to thank Timmy Josten and Mike Josten, as well as my acting instructor Sal Landi and modeling instructor Tara Rice. I'm enjoying SCSOPA and I highly recommend this esteemed performing arts school to others."
Kim Loccke

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"March" Yourself into your Dentist's Office
If there ever was a month to get your semi-annual dental checkups on the calendar, it would be March.
"March is the month we celebrate National Dentist's Day, Dental Assistant Recognition Week and World Oral Health Day," shares Becky Short, office manager for Dr. Marvin Tong, DDS. "Together, they're a great reminder to get your 2026 appointments booked and in your calendar - because making your dental health a priority positively benefits your health overall."
"A healthy mouth and a healthy body are scientifically linked," says Dr. Tong, longtime beloved Valencia family dentist. "From preventing heart problems to reducing the incidence of preterm birth, regular dental care is important for much more than just your teeth and gums."
"Our office offers convenient Saturday appointments so that families can get their treatments and cleanings together, outside school and work hours," says Short. "We love seeing your kids get bigger at each appointment - and it's been so fun watching once-little-children now come in on their own, sometimes with their own families! It's an honor to have served our community for over three decades."
Dr. Marvin Tong, DDS 268-6284

What to Do when there's a Pet Emergency
Here's the one thing you might not think about when there's a pet emergency in your family: calling the animal hospital en route or on your way out the door. The caring professionals at Santa Clarita Animal Urgent Care & Wellness Center say, "Please call ahead if you have an emergency. This allows us to be ready whenever you walk through the door." In our families, we all have "Emergency Vet 1" and a backup, "Emergency Vet 2" saved in our phones so we're not Googling in crisis. Right now is a great time to do the same!
Santa Clarita Animal Urgent Care & Wellness Center 888-8838

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Earn a New Career in a Few Weeks!
Imagine it - you could be three short months away from a better, more fulfilling career... and life! Santa Clarita School of Dental Assisting offers a premier educational experience rooted in practical experience. You'll benefit from hands-on training in a vibrant, real-world dental office. Dental assistants are in great demand - many students have job offers before they even complete the program. And, if you want to become a dental hygienist, working as a dental assistant first can propel you to your goal.
Santa Clarita School of Dental Assisting
startyourcareertoday.com

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Move this March at the Lake Piru 5K & Kids 1K Fun Run
Did you resolve to move more as a family in '26? Here's your chance! On Saturday, March 28, experience the inaugural Lake Piru 5K and Kids 1K Fun Run, a scenic event featuring local food trucks and vendors that the whole family will enjoy.
insidescv.com/lpirurun26

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Discover Fun & Fitness for All Ages & Skills at Dance Studio 84
There's something for everybody at Dance Studio 84! You'll love their fun and friendly atmosphere, whether it's your first time putting on dance shoes or you're looking to get back into class. They offer over 100 classes a week for ages 2 through adults and are also home to Company 84, their premier team of dancers who train with the best Southern California has to offer. Dance Studio 84 has brought the love of dance to thousands of children and adults in the Santa Clarita Valley for the past 40 years and offers free trial classes and competitive tuition rates. Located near Valencia High School, you can stop by for a visit or call to get a tour.
Dance Studio 84 775-7655

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This Month, Why don't You...
Attend the City of Santa Clarita's Art Hop on Saturday, March 28?
This free youth arts festival is held at Hart Park from 10am to 2pm on March 28. Enjoy student art, live shows, crafts and an Egg Scramble for ages 10 and under. Entry is free and registration is required for the hunt. Selected art will be on display at Old Town Newhall Library through May 27.
santaclarita.gov/arthop

Try NEST: Flutterby Art Studio the First Saturday of the Month?
Flutterby Open Art Studio is a free monthly event held the first Saturday of the month from 10am to 1pm. Families can create together, with multiple project options to try. The experience is open to all ages and preregistration is required.
theartree.org/flutterby

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Make some "Ugly Art?"
The "ugly art" movement is messy - with intention! The goal isn't to craft something display worthy. Instead, the purpose is to process emotions and release tension. Making "ugly art" is simple and can be done with elements you already have. Start by covering your crafting area with newspapers or junk mail so you don't damage your surface. Then, choose a canvas - it can be a paper bag from the grocery store, poster board, even an old sheet that was destined for the trash. Your "paint" can be anything from your craft corner - but creativity is the name of the game here. Some folks online have used out-of-date condiments like ketchup and mustard! The fun part is next - using your hands, paint brushes, utensils, spatulas to splat, mix and move the colors around. Get lost in the moment, feel the feelings - and the textures! - and let your nervous system settle with every movement.

Visit the Los Angeles County Arboretum & Botanical Gardens
At 127 acres, there's more than enough space to roam and explore - so pack the stroller or strap on sturdy shoes for off-trail adventures. Hundreds of peacocks call the garden home - keep your cameras at the ready! And check out their calendar, too, which ranges from offerings like Goat Yoga, Forest Bathing and family adventure night hikes.
arboretum.org