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Teaching Kids Gratitude for Healthy Teeth
Lots of parents help their children learn to count their blessings, especially this time of year, but few probably do it while brushing their teeth! "We want kids to be aware of the importance of a healthy mouth and good oral hygiene practices," says Becky Short, office manager for Dr. Marvin Tong, DDS. "As a parent, I know that when you 'lecture' kids, it's often in one ear and out the other." That's why the mom of two began working in affirmations when helping her children manage their oral care. "I'd say, 'I'm so grateful your teeth are healthy and strong,' 'I love to see you smile,' 'It's wonderful to floss our teeth and keep them clean.' As my kids grew older, they had a very positive outlook on oral care and generally stuck to it on their own," says the longtime Valencia dental office pro.
268-6284

"Ever since she was little, Destiny has always loved acting. She has always dreamed of becoming a movie star and with Santa Clarita School of Performing Arts (SCSOPA), she feels like she is one step closer to making that dream come true! Destiny loves all her classes but one of her absolute favorite teachers is Karen Furno. She could take her classes every single day if I let her! The teachers at SCSOPA have been amazing. They give such great feedback, helpful tips and encouragement and we have watched Destiny grow so much in both her skills and confidence. She also competed in her very first pageant, Little Miss United States, where she placed third and won the Miss West Coast Regional title. She also is currently in the process of being signed with an agent. Watching Destiny grow and pursue something she truly loves has been such an amazing experience for our family. We are so thankful for all of the teachers and staff at SCSOPA who have encouraged her, helped her learn and given her the confidence to keep chasing her dreams. If you have been wanting to get your child started in acting, modeling, voiceover or the performing arts but don't know where to start, reach out to SCSOPA. They are so helpful! If your child has a dream, take that first step and get started."
The Corneli Family

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PUT A RING ON IT
3-carat Pear-shaped Perfection
Upgrading - or putting a ring on it for the first time? Either way, this 14k white-gold beauty, surrounded by pave diamonds, is worth a "test drive." Slip her on your finger at Manya Jewelers' new location on The Patios, across from the Apple Store.
255-6668

Schedule your Pet's End-of-the-Year Wellness Exam Today
You know that wellness exams are important for the human members of your family - so it makes sense that the "prevention is the best medicine" philosophy applies to your beloved pets, too. Here's why you'll want to schedule your pet's wellness exam today.
Early detection:
Wellness exams allow veterinarians to identify potential health issues before they become serious or costly to treat.
Preventative care:
They provide an opportunity to implement
preventative measures like vaccinations and parasite control, keeping your pet healthy.
Longer, healthier life:
By addressing health concerns early and promoting preventative care, wellness exams can significantly contribute to your pet's overall well-being and lifespan.
The loving professionals at Santa Clarita Animal Urgent Care and Wellness Center will treat your pets with the care and support they need to age gracefully and comfortably. At your pet's wellness exam, the doctors and staff will target medical issues or concerns you have. If needed, they will develop a great plan to ensure optimal health for your pet.
888-8838

Good News!
Golden Valley High School National Honor Society Wins National Award
For its exemplary record of leadership, service, and efforts to improve the school and community, the National Honor Society (NHS) has awarded Golden Valley High School the National Chapter of Distinction award. Golden Valley NHS members completed 2,660 hours of community service during the 2025-26 school year, supporting many local organizations like the Child and Family Center, the City of Santa Clarita, Henry Mayo Newhall Hospital and local food pantries.

Saugus High School's Amber Feldman Honored as LA County Teacher of the Year
William S. Hart Union High School District Teacher of the Year Amber Feldman has been selected as a Los Angeles County Teacher of the Year, a prestigious award that recognizes excellence in education. Her selection as a County Teacher of the Year qualifies her for the California Teacher of the Year competition. Congratulations, Amber!

SCV Water Drops New Children's Book About Water Conservation
"Dewy and Droppy: The Tale of Two Drops," a new children's book, was written and designed by SCV Water Management Analyst Amy Seyerle. It's a children's story of two drops of water as they journey together from the sky to the tap - but ultimately face different fates. The book aims to educate children about how imported water, which makes up approximately half of the Santa Clarita Valley's water supply, gets to their homes, and emphasizes the importance of water conservation. "Dewy and Droppy" is available in both English and Spanish and physical copies can be obtained through SCV Water's existing Education and school programs, as well as at select community events. A PDF of the book is also available to download.
yourscvwater.com/kids-corner


Engineering Programs at The Master's University Receive ABET Accreditation
This fall, The Master's University received exciting news: its Bachelor of Science programs in Computer, Electrical and Mechanical Engineering received accreditation from the Engineering Accreditation Commission of ABET, marking an important milestone for the programs and opening new opportunities for TMU graduates. ABET is the leading accreditor for engineering programs in the United States. And ABET accreditation is a critical factor in how engineering degrees are viewed by other institutions and employers, so working toward this milestone has been a top priority since TMU's engineering programs were started in 2022. "Receiving ABET accreditation is the single most important milestone our department has reached," said Dr. Joey Kim, chair of TMU's engineering and computer science department. "This highlights the Lord's kindness to us, that He is blessing the fruit of our labors." Dr. Mitch Hopewell, TMU's provost and chief academic officer, said TMU is grateful for the validation of its academic programs, "especially in a technical area." "This accreditation authenticates that our programs meet rigorous professional standards as we prepare students for careers where they can represent Christ and make a significant impact," he said.
Learn more about TMU's Department of Engineering &
Computer Science by logging on.
masters.edu/engineering

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This Month, why don't You...
HOLIDAY HAPPENINGS EDITION
Visit the Harvest Festival & Pumpkin Patch?
It's time for for fall fun at Gilchrist Farms! Daily entry is free through October 31, with pumpkins and photo ops available during the week (They're closed
Monday!) and a full lineup of festival activities on the weekends. Saturdays and Sundays are the time to visit for farm animal cuddles, festival food, pig races, pony and tractor rides, a Gold Rush gemstone mining experience,
old-time crafts like wool spinning, goat milking and much more. This is a popular event that has become a treasured annual tradition for many - so arrive early if you'd like to miss the crowd.
gilchristfarm.com

Be Sweet to Soldiers?
On Monday, November 2, Santa Clarita Advanced Dentistry is hosting their 18th annual Candy Buy Back benefiting Operation Gratitude. Guests will have an opportunity to win prizes, earn $1 per pound donated, play games, meet local soldiers and support our troops. Plus, there are school prizes for most candy and most participants!
yourvalenciadentist.com

Donate to the SCV Food Pantry?
Did you know that 7.4 percent of Santa Clarita residents live below the federal poverty line? Each year, the SCV Food Pantry gives away over 1,000 holiday meals to neighbors in need. Right now, the nonprofit org is asking for the community's help to ensure that every Santa Claritan can have a special holiday meal.
scvfoodpantry.org