Our Valley ed. Feb 2014 by Our Valley Group

LOVE

STORIES Profiles in

Latino Courage

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In this

Issue…

Our Community Movers & Shakers

2014! A New Year to Start Fresh My Adventure to Citizenship

It’s All About Main Street

Arts and Entertainment

Sasha’s Story

More Setareh!

Love Stories Profiles in Latino Courage: Staff Sgt. Edwin Salvatierra

Your Invisible Solution Center

Honoring Martin Luther King, Jr.

Editorial

ow, our December issue has been so very

well received we could not be happier with it. Thanks to all the readers who let us know how much you liked it. We don’t know if our cover and coverage of Setareh Khatibi had anything to do with it, but she was holding our magazine during one of her television interviews and then went on to WIN the Miss Mexico USA pageant held in Las Vegas. In response to all of you who asked, we are including some more pictures of Setareh for your viewing pleasure. 2014 is a new year to get a fresh start on whatever you want to do. We interviewed Jessie Torres, a personal coach trained by the famed Tony Robbins, and got her input on how to increase personal performance. 2014 is also a key election year for our community with our city council races this Spring and a wide open Congressional race this Fall. We will honor one of our greatest citizens, retiring Congressman Buck McKeon, in a future issue. February is the month of Valentine’s Day, Presidents Day and Black History. Let us honor those we love, those who have held the highest office in the land and our African American brothers. God bless

CREDITS Editor in Chief Bill Miranda Art Design Patsy Ayala Ricardo Paredes Orozco Estefanía Islas Blanca De La Torre Production Julio Del Rio Copy Editor Virginia Miranda

Contributors Steve Knight, Ken Striplin, Darren Hernandez Anna Frutos-Sanchez, Michele Buttelman, Byron Alvarado, Gloria Locke,

Laurie Morgan, David Hegg, Arif Halaby, AmyKate Gowland, Laurene Weste Advertising Director Patsy Ayala Account Executive Francisco Del Rio Linda Woolf Technology Julio Del Rio Ryan Kuhn Publisher Our Valley Group, LLC Patsy Ayala, CEO

OUR COMMUNITY:

Sports and recreation programming remain a top priority in the City. Right now we are working on a 12-acre improvement at Central Park to add two new, full-size, lighted, multi-use sports fields, plus 170 more parking spaces, lighted walkways and a new basketball court. At 130 acres, Central Park is the City’s largest park and is already home to our fabulous anta Clarita is an amazing place to community garden project, the call home. And you don’t have to popular cross country course, several take my word for it. Last year Santa playing fields, walking paths, and Clarita ranked among “America’s Top 100 a children’s play area. Look for the Best Places to Live” by Livability.com based grand opening of these new additions on economics, housing, education, amenities, and this summer. infrastructure, among other items. Each day City staff works to enhance the community for I am also pleased to share that residents of all ages. Some of the ways we do that include two of our Santa Clarita Public adding new trails and more open space areas, improving our Library branches will feature art parks, events, and sports/recreation programs, and developing exhibits beginning February 10 and business programs and incentives that attract and retain our continuing through June 10, 2014 targeted businesses.

LAURENE WESTE THE MAYOR

KEN striplin

February is another busy month around town when it comes to public art. Community members can browse local works at six City-managed exhibit spaces, including one at each Santa Clarita Public Library branch, two at Westfield Valencia Town Center, and one at City Hall. A few current exhibits include: “Shadows” at City Hall, providing a glimpse into the use of light and shadow in art; artist Steph Darling’s “Fantasy Frenzy” at Westfield Valencia Town Center, which captures nature’s connection with people; and “The Seasoned Artist” at the Canyon Country Library, which highlights art by local seniors. Complete details about these and other exhibits are available at arts.santa-clarita.com. The City of Santa Clarita, in partnership with Spirit Properties, will celebrate the grand opening of the Golden Valley Road Bike Trail Extension project on the northeast corner of Golden Valley Road and Centre Pointe Parkway on Thursday, February 13 at 9 a.m. This project extends the trail, providing access to the south side of Soledad Canyon Road at Golden Triangle and Ruether Avenue, the Sports Complex, and the business center in Golden Valley. Landscaping enhancements include installation of tan fencing along the trail and around large oak trees within the area. The Golden Valley Road Bike Trail Extension project is part of the City of Santa Clarita’s commitment to providing non-motorized transportation options that support a positive and healthy lifestyle. I hope you’ll join us at the event and on the trail in the near future. As always, I enjoy hearing from you. Please feel free to email me directly at: kstriplin@santa-clarita.com and best wishes for a great month.

I want to thank you for your participation in our community. Santa Clarita continues to be one of California’s best cities because of the people who live here. Please feel free to email me directly at lweste@santaclarita.com.

Sacramento Can Do More to Help Small Businesses Scott Wilk Assemblyman

city manager

anta Clarita is a dynamic community and I’m excited to share that the City was recently ranked among the Top Best Cities in California for Job Seekers. NerdWallet.com, a consumer-focused website, looked at 158 cities and focused on growth and population change, median household income, monthly homeowner costs, and the unemployment rate and ranked Santa Clarita number 19. Santa Clarita was the only city in Los Angeles County to make the top 20.

as we work to increase accessibility to original art in the City. At the Old Town Newhall Library, be sure to visit “Creative Mediums: Explorations in Oil, Watercolor and Acrylic.” The artists in this exhibit have selected various mediums and have interpreted the world around them using those materials. Over at the Valencia Library, the “SCVi Art Exhibit” features art pieces created by K-12 students at the Santa Clarita Valley International Charter School.

mall business is the pulse of our state and is vital for economic growth. We need to do everything possible to help these entrepreneurs. Studies show that small business generates two out of every three jobs and is a key component to rejuvenating neighborhoods. In addition to providing goods and services to Californians directly, small businesses also sell to large businesses. Many larger companies have left California due to burdensome regulations and an overall unfriendly business climate. For the sake of our economy, and for the success of our small businesses that must stop! Recently, the state announced they received an additional $55.6 million in federal funds to help small businesses start up and stay successful. Two state programs will receive the additional funds: the Small Business Loan Guarantee Program, run by California Infrastructure and Economic Development Bank, and the California Capital Access Program, managed by the state Treasurer’s Office.

These new federal funds were given to California to assist small businesses that might have trouble qualifying for loans from banks, credit unions and other lenders. Small businesses will now have a greater opportunity to expand their businesses and create jobs. The state loan programs have already issued $71.6 million in loans to help entrepreneurs to achieve their dreams. According to the 2013 California Economic Report, nearly 17 percent of small businesses are Latino owned. Latino owned businesses in California contribute 650,000 jobs to our economy and $100 billion annually to the economy and the numbers are increasing at an accelerating rate. Latino small businesses are starting up at twice the national average. Latina entrepreneurs are said to be starting small businesses six times faster than the nationwide average making California the leader in Latina businesses. All told, Latino businesses are leading at the vanguard of the state and the country’s economic recovery. Small business helps our economy and our communities thrive and it is time for Sacramento leaders to work together to get California back on track and pursue a more business friendly agenda, large and small. For more information on the Small Business Loan Guarantee Program visit http://bth. ca.gov/sblgp.htm and for more information on the California Capital Access Program visit http://www.treasurer.ca.gov/cpcfa/ calcap/sb/index.asp

Visit us www.ourvalleygroup.com

like us in 8

Movers & Shakers Darren hernandez

Assistant City Manager

first generation mainland American from a working class family, Darren Hernandez has achieved numerous personal and professional accomplishments through a strong work ethic and creative innovation. Darren’s parents, Felipe and Irene, were born in Puerto Rico and moved with their families as young children to New York City. Although proud Borinquenos, Darren’s maternal and paternal grandparents left Puerto Rico for the mainland to pursue economic opportunities with the hopes of lifting their respective families out of poverty. To achieve his dream of becoming the first person in his family to attend college, Darren Hernandez humbly worked a variety of jobs to save money and pay his tuition. These jobs included dishwasher, bus boy, window washer, auto detailer, factory worker, janitor and waiter. With a strong work ethic and focused selfconfidence, Darren studied as an undergraduate at the State University of New York at New Paltz and as a graduate student at the prestigious Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs at Syracuse University. Through a career that has spanned more than two decades, Darren has served as Executive Assistant to the Controller of the State of New York; Assistant to the

anna frutos-sanchez

SCE Regional Manager

was born in Santa Paula the second eldest of 10 kids. My parents were raised in Zacatecas, Mexico and came to Santa Paula to work hard and make a good life for their family. My dad started his own asphalt laying business and my mom worked cleaning houses. Thanks to their hard work we weren’t poor and never went hungry.

As second eldest, I got to be mother, nurse, counselor and yes, sometimes disciplinarian to the kids. Because we had such a large family, everyone had to do their part to make things run well. Doing our part and being a team, made our family very tight knit, a trait we hold sacred even to this day. When I graduated high school, I attended the University of California at Santa Barbara. My parents always stressed education and I am proud that many of their kids received college degrees as did I. After working for the Santa Paula School District for a number of years, I got a call from Southern California Edison telling me I got the job for which I had applied. I was very excited. SCE was a dream company for me. It offered great training and job opportunities, and I knew I could be very happy in a long career there.

City Manager of Kalamazoo, Michigan; Village Manager of the Village of Walden, New York; and Director of Finance of the City of La Habra, California. In January 2004, Darren was appointed Director of Administrative Services for the City of Santa Clarita and was named Deputy City Manager in July 2007. His accomplishments with Santa Clarita include helping to create the Open Space Preservation District, achieve an AAA credit rating, and establish the Santa Clarita Public Library. Wellregarded by his peers, Darren recently served as President of the Fiscal Officers Department of the League of California Cities and continues to serve on the League’s board of directors. Giving back to the community, Darren serves on the foundation board of the Child and Family Center in Santa Clarita and on the board of directors of ONEgeneration in Lake Balboa. Darren is proudly married to his wife, Sarah, an attorney who is a nationally recognized child welfare law specialist. Together they are the parents of a five year old daughter and a three year old son. And I am. I started in Energy Services and moved into Public Relations very quickly. I became regional manager for the Montebello region. Even though I was well trained and prepared, I had to learn a great deal more in a short period of time. Lucky for me I like learning. I became very good at what I did and, after eight years, was fortunate to transfer to the Santa Clarita district where I live. I view my job as one in which I am chartered to protect the Southern California Edison brand while being attentive to community needs. I sit on various boards where new ideas and issues are discussed including the College of Canyons Foundation, the Boys and Girls Club, the SCV Latino Chamber of Commerce, the Valley Industry Association and the SCV Chamber of Commerce. My advice to young people is to learn as much as you can and make sure you build good relationships along the way. And do it con ganas!

2014! A New Year to Start Fresh By Michele E. Buttelman Do you remember New Year’s Day 2013? Did you start the New Year with a shiny optimism, confident that 2013 was “the year” that “everything” was going to work out the way you wanted? Did you set goals? Make a New Year’s resolution? How did you fare? Did you accomplish what you wanted in 2013? Did you reach your goals?

ongratulations if you made 2013 “your” year. However, if you feel you fell short, or failed to reach the level of personal or professional success you had envisioned, why? What’s holding you back? Jesse Torres, certified results coach and founder of Cre8ive Inspiration, has suggestions to make 2014 a different year from 2013. “People often feel blocked, that they are not moving forward to their goals. The first thing people should do is to write a list of goals to accomplish in 2014. People don’t take the time to write things down. They think they have it all in their heads,” said Jessie. Torres said another important step is to reflect back on 2013 and honestly assess progress, or lack of progress toward life goals. “First, look at what was great about 2013 and think about what you accomplished,” she said. “Look at the goals you had for 2013 and write down what was great and then look at what wasn’t great. What didn’t you accomplish?”

She added that individuals then have to take the necessary steps to set themselves up for success in 2014.

“Ask yourselves the hard questions. What would I do again? What would I do differently?” she said. “As you move forward to reaching your 2014 goals it helps to review your daily rituals and habits. How we do the small things in our lives can impact the momentum we need to reach the outcomes we desire. What are your standards for your daily routine?” Jessie also suggests when considering your goals for 2014 that you be specific and make your goals obtainable. “For example, instead of looking at the entire year, give yourself a 90-daychallenge,” she said. “What do you want to accomplish in 90 days? Then backward engineer it. If I need to lose 20 pounds in the 90 days, how many pounds a week do I need to lose? If I have a certain revenue goal for my business, how much revenue do I need to generate each week to reach the 90 day number?” “Your state of mind is another key component for success. This is one of the most important keys to success. Who do you need to be? How are you

showing up?” she added. She suggests asking the following questions. How do you think? What do you believe? “These are important steps to achieving your desired outcomes,” she said. Reaching your 2014 goals often is a matter of persistence. Many people give up at the first sign of failure. How often have you failed at your New Year’s Resolution in the first week and then given up? Jessie said success is often just “two millimeters away.” She recounts stories of successful people who overcame years of failures to eventually find success. “When Colonel Sanders set out to sell his Kentucky Fried Chicken recipe he was rejected more than 1,000 times,” she said. “How determined are you? One of the most important keys to success is to stay focused on the outcome.” One of the biggest obstacles people face is they become “stuck in the how.” More important, she said, is to stay “focused on the why.” “Why is that outcome important to me?” Jessie said what you want to feel, believe and become can be manifested in your internal dialogue, the conversations you have with yourself.

In addition, she said, your physical presence, how you stand, how you breathe can also impact who you are. “If you slump, take shallow breaths, look depressed, you are depressed,” she said. “Look at yourself in the mirror and present yourself the way you think a successful person looks.” Jessie added that finding inspiration from motivational gurus like Tony Robbins and the late Jim Rohn can help develop the qualities individuals need to become successful. To set yourself up for success in 2014 she advises: 1. Check in on your focus; is it negative or positive? Take time to get focused each

day. 2. Read motivational books, listen to inspirational audio books and watch helpful videos. 3. Be the gatekeeper of your thoughts. 4. Set your intention and then take action. 5. Surround yourself with people who can help you reach your goals.

“Success is not just about setting goals, reading a book or attending a seminar, you have to take action,” said Jessie. For more information about Jessie Torres visit http://cre8iveinspiration.com

Italian Composer Carlo Siliotto Creates Score for Eugenio Derbez’s Family Comedy, Instructions Not Included

talian composer Carlo Siliotto supplies the musical heart to Eugenio Derbez’s feature directorial debut, Instructions Not Included, which has touched mass audiences while becoming the highest-grossing Spanish language film in the U.S. and an all-time hit in its native country, Mexico. Inspired by such films as Charlie Chaplin’s, The Kid and Roberto Benigni’s, Life Is Beautiful Derbez tapped Siliotto for his talent to bring euphonious emotion to dramatic scenes. “Carlo’s music has a starring role in Instructions Not Included. I’ve seen so many people touched and moved by this movie and a lot of that has to with the music,” exclaims Derbez who became acquainted with Siliotto’s film music on La Misma Luna, in which the director previously starred. Italian-native Siliotto is a Golden Globe lauded composer, both in the U.S. and Italy, with respective original score nominations for the films, Nomad the Warrior and The Flight of the Innocent. He studied guitar, violin and composition at the Conservatory of Frosinone and soon became a founding member of the popular ‘70s Italian folk band, Canzoniere del Lazio. Carlo Siliotto has scored over 100 films throughout the world including the Lionsgate’s film, The Punisher, The Ramen Girl , starring the late Brittany Murphy, and the upcoming bio-pic, Vivaldi.

4 Steps to more Effective Money Management

Money matters by byron alvarado

“

I am going to start saving this year! I am going to save more! I want to save for my first home, my children’s college education, my retirement, paying down my mortgage, taking vacations and enjoying life more with my loved ones.

”

As we begin 2014, New Year’s Resolutions abound in health, spiritual and financial areas. Have you made your financial resolution? It should be interconnected with the others, and influence the other two and how your life is viewed by you. I want to focus here on your financial well being and offer you 4 steps to more effective money management. Step 1: Save 15% of your gross income. I recall my parents advising me to save 10% of my income. That is a good start but a better savings rate is 15%. This rate takes into

account the eroding factors on money such as taxes, inflation, market/interest rate risk, planned obsolescence and technological changes. Allocating 3% to each of the five ongoing eroding factors gives us 15%. By “fueling” your financial engine with at least 15% annually, it improves your chances to reach your financial goals. Step 2: Make certain your financial plan accounts for, and positions your family properly in the event of disability, lawsuit or premature death. Maximizing coverage and minimizing out of pocket costs is your goal. Step 3: Ensure sufficient liquidity for emergencies or opportunities. Ideally, having 50% of your gross annual income in savings vehicles, where your principle is not at risk should be a goal. By continuously saving at a 15% rate you should reach this in 2-3 years, assuming you start from zero savings. Step 4: Your money should be strategically positioned to allow proper movement to enable taking advantage of opportunities to increase its value while minimizing the eroding factors. By having money moving, you can create multiple rates of return. Steps 1 through 3 are the foundation to a robust financial plan. Step 4 is especially important to those who have assets but want to generate more from them and keep more for their enjoyment. As you move into 2014 and beyond, wanting a better understanding and making better long term financial decisions, it is very important to have access to those professionals who understand macro-strategies and how they may or may not work in your unique financial situation.

It’s Hard to Be Romantic

When You Can’t Hear by Nola aronson

earing loss isn’t something people suffer alone. Individuals with untreated hearing loss affect family and friends as well, who have to constantly repeat themselves, are misunderstood and are forced to listen to TV with the sound blaring. It’s hard to be romantic when you can’t hear the sweet nothings being whispered in your ear.

A friend of mine’s father was suffering from hearing loss and everyone knew it but him. Rather than seeking a solution for his problem, he chose to isolate himself. He stopped going to church for fear he wouldn’t understand what was being said and would no longer take his wife to dinner because of background noise. He was consciously avoiding situations where he might have to admit there was an issue.

If you suspect your loved one might be suffering from hearing loss, schedule them an appointment for a quick and easy screening, and come in with them. It may just be wax occluding their ear canal, or if it is more, our hearing care professionals will help find a device that matches their lifestyle and budget. Confidence will be regained when you can hear clearly what people are saying to you. You won’t have to be afraid of socializing and you can stop bickering over misunderstood words. To schedule a consultation with one of our professionals call 661-505-1135. Nola Aronson, owner of Advanced Audiology, has been helping people hear better for over 30 years. SCV Advanced Audiology is located at 23822 Valencia Blvd #103 in Valencia, CA 91355

My Adventure to American Citizenship by patsy ayala I just became an American Citizen! Yay! It has been a wonderful adventure.

y adventure began 13 years ago when, while living in Mexico, my husband Julio accepted a position with a multinational corporation headquartered in Los Angeles. I was so excited. I saw this as a great opportunity to realize so many dreams: a good life, a nice home, a family of our own and a good community in which to raise it. So off we went on our adventure to Los Angeles with our pockets filled with dreams. Arriving in LA we had lots of adjusting to do. Julio’s job was in Burbank so where do we live, how does he get to work and … what do I do? After intensive searches, we settled on a beautiful community called Santa Clarita, he took the Metrolink to work and I embarked on improving my English. I took classes, studied very hard and gave my best to improve. Though my spoken English is still not perfect, I continue to work hard to make it better. That’s the American way. Always try to make things better. Speaking of making things better, Julio and I made our family better. First we added Santiago who is now 10 years old and then came Rodrigo now 8. So there I was, waiting for my green card (it took seven years to get it), while being the mother of two young American citizens. Only in America! With children in hand, we explored our new country. We ventured coast to coast and many places in between, learning as much as we could about the things that make this country great. After each trip, we returned wanting to do our part to contribute in some small way to America’s greatness. We wanted to help make our community even better. But not all things were better. Julio and I missed our extended family. We missed weddings, baby showers and a few funerals. Though we made many friends in Santa Clarita, I still missed my childhood and university “buddies.” Family and friends are very important to me so I still try to maintain those relationships if only from a distance. In Santa Clarita, my adventure continued. I dove into my activities almost head first. I became very active in our school’s PTA. I helped organize fundraisers and served as a member of our Site Council. Julio became very active in the Boy Scouts with the boys. He’s a great father and works very hard. I wanted to help him with our finances while still caring for my boys so I became an entrepreneur.

First I started my own jazzercise business. It was something I knew and that didn’t require a large investment. I went from company to company offering my jazzercise program for employees. Before long I had a nice little business! Then, using the knowledge of the MBA degree I got in Mexico, I created a marketing company helping companies to better market their products and services. That company, Our Valley, became this magazine and more. My adventure was in full swing. I became eligible for citizenship five years after getting my green card. I was so excited that I applied immediately. The process was not easy. I had to master the teachings in the book, Civic Lessons for the Naturalization Test. In addition, I was interviewed various times regarding my past, present and future. Citizenship quest is not a speed race. It’s a marathon. Twelve years to get there, I finally went for my final interview consisting of English oral, writing and reading tests. I was prepared as I could possibly be. I was ready. I wanted this. I really wanted to become an American citizen. “Mrs. Ayala, I have great news for you. You have passed all the tests with flying colors and will be sworn in as an American citizen in a few weeks.” I sat there savoring the words unable to speak. I had played by the rules and earned citizenship the hard way. There was a cry of joy somewhere inside me struggling mightily to get out. My body shook. All I could say was, “Thank you.” A few weeks later I, along with 4,000 other very soon to be citizens who had come from lands spread out all over the world, marched into the LA Convention Center where we took an oath of citizenship. And my adventure was over. Not! The adventure is still in its early stages! America is the land of opportunity and there are many opportunities for anyone who wants to achieve success and happiness. God bless America!

Top 4 W 1

Benefits of Hair Color

hen you think of hair color think of wonderful things it offers you. Here are my Top 4 Benefits of Hair Color:

It adds super shine to your hair. If you’re feeling your natural hair color has become drab and dull, you can illuminate your hair with Wella’s Demi-Permanent hair color. This is a great option for a less committal color to add shine and dimension as well as strength to your hair. This gives you great silky hair illuminated by the light-reflecting ingredients and iridescent color.

It camouflages that nasty grey. When we see a grey hair that it is a totally different texture and color it can’t be ours!!! It’s like a different person’s hair growing out of your head. So let’s deal with that. We have two different options: grey blending and grey coverage. Grey blending is using a demi-permanent color that will mask your grey but not alter the integrity of the hair. It can last from 4 to 6 weeks before gradually fading out of your hair. Grey coverage is actually altering your natural hair color and permanently changing your hair strand. Color is deposited into your hair shaft, opening the cuticle, and covers the grey 100%.

It gives your hair the extra volume it needs. Perfectly healthy, virgin hair is not always what we want. Most of us like a little movement and volume in our style. To get that you can’t have the healthiest hair on the block. We don’t want blown out ugly dry hair either. There is a happy medium. By adding some hair color with highlights, low-lights, or color shine, you can achieve great volume to your style. With little or no harm it can give you that extra umph that you need.

it refreshes your look. I love to use color to enhance my clients’ haircut style and look. To give them even more options in the styling process, “peek-a-boo” colors are great for this. Hair color panels highlight different parting or facial features and can give a dark to lightness “Halo” effect. Paneling colors and blending strategically throughout your hair won’t have you looking like all of your friends. We all want our own unique look don’t we? These are some great options to get you thinking about your own hair color and where you want to go with it. I have loved hair color since I began my journey in the hair and beauty industry. It’s a great way to illuminate the way you feel and have it come through your hair. Love your hair color!

By Erika Artieda, Owner of Hairitage Studio, 661-904-8959, www.hairitagestudio.com

Rock

the Red Carpet Glow

he Red Carpet is consistently full of cool new beauty trends and this year is no exception. As an avid watcher, the one thing I extremely noticed was glowing skin. You could find young and old alike rocking the look. To me, dewy equals youthful. Let’s face it, winter is rough on your skin and two things are your best friends: exfoliation and moisture. I tell my clients how important it is to understand that skin changes over time. Each season brings its own issues. Winter brings drier weather and wind, which in turn, brings dull, lifeless, and dry skin. It is important to gently exfoliate skin a few times a week to rid your skin of impurities and dead skin cells allowing for better moisture absorption.

When choosing a moisturizer, understand the needs of your skin and pick one that addresses those specific needs.

Primers are a must this season for eye and face makeup. They go on before the makeup and allow the makeup to stay on for hours. Primers also provide the added benefit of filling in lines and skin imperfections so your makeup or tinted moisturizer goes on more smoothly. This year matte make up is out, so try for a more glowing dewy finish. Seek out a tinted moisturizer or a luminous foundation. Finish with a cream blush and blend on the apples of your cheeks. Dewy is youthful and sexy. You don’t have to walk the red carpet to rock a healthy glowing new you! April Piroumian is a makeup artist and Mary Kay beauty consultant. She can be reached at www.marykay.com/ makemebeautiful and Makemebeautiful@marykay.com

Editor’s Comment: Our Valley Santa Clarita held a contest to see who would submit the winning love story and love photo. After reading dozens of stories and viewing dozens of love photos we selected the following six stories as the ones we liked the best. We thank all that submitted their love stories and photos and hope our readers will enjoy the stories selected. As promised, the winner will be given a romantic dinner for two at Persia Lounge. Congratulations Miriam and Moises! And to all of us please remember: Love is a wonderful thing. Treasure it.

It Was Love at First Sight

Miriam & Moises Robles

was on the dance floor, at a night club in Panorama City, when I saw him walk in. He looked stunning, incredibly dressed and confident as he entered the club. I told myself, “I’m going to dance with that handsome man!” I watched him walk across the floor, not noticing me, when to my surprise he stopped at my table. He was a friend of my friends. Lucky me! I walked slowly to the table … ok, I walked very fast … and said HELLO. Before I could sit, he asked me to dance and I said yes! I had a great dance partner for the rest of the night. He asked for my number and, of course, I gave it to him. He called the next day and we dated the day after. We had a great time and I realized how much I loved that handsome man. Three months and many dates later he proposed to me. I told him, “You’re crazy!” And he was crazy … crazy in love with me! And I said YES! We just celebrated our 19th wedding anniversary on January 14th and we have 3 wonderful children. We are still very much in love. The secret of our happiness is the Respect, Communication, Commitment and so much Love for each other.

JimmyandJulie:

Jimmy & Julie

Our Love Story

his story begins in the 80’s, and Hollywood High was the place, where two teenagers became fast friends, and slowly, he fell in love with her. Unfortunately, she was someone else’s girl at the time, and the only thing she could offer him was her friendship. Years passed, and marriage, children and heartbreak happened for both. Life taught them many lessons, but surely the biggest one, was to wait for that special someone, the one whose love would be lasting, without giving up on hope. Then one day, out of the blue, life brought that someone back into her life…again. Two old friends exchanged their life story over drinks. It was at best, just a meeting between friends. But as the weeks passed, they found each other falling into that familiar feeling of old. There was so much to say, so much to feel, and not a thing holding her back this time. She let herself fall, and he was there to catch her, while whispering in her ear: “You were always the One”. Falling in love is magical, and finding the one, is a gift. I found love in my best friend. My Jimmy, you too, were always the one.

3,650 days of

Authentic Soulful Connection

his month we completed 3,650 days of authentic soulful connection or 10 years of marriage. Both of us widows, we had found each other on Match.com in 2002. Naomi: “I love my amazing husband who protects our family, loves me tenderly and unconditionally. Our ability to give, understand and “be” with each other surpasses my wildest dreams.” Don: “I am blessed to see how God answers prayers for my deepest needs through my wife- a giver, my best friend and prayer partner.” How do we count the days? For 10 months we purposefully dated somewhere amazing taking 3-4 day romantic weekend trips around the country. For each adventure one of us was in charge of creating an atmosphere of communication and pleasure. We chose settings for conversation; wonderful scenic drives and close intimate dinners. Sometimes we spend time just holding hands looking into each other’s eyes.

Don Morshead & Naomi Carmona-Morshead

Once in the summer we separated- Don hiked the High Sierras (11,000 feet); I researched my ancestor’s work on the US Constitution in Philadelphia. When we saw each otherlet’s just say “it was magical!” Our relationship comes first; next to God, before family, friends and business. We love our enthusiastic healthy amorous lifestyle!

From Paris

with Love

My Spiritual Love Story

Our Timeless Love Story

Marsha& Dale McLean

Amparo & Guillermo Cevallos

Queen Victoria & Sidney

y husband Dale and I met in Paris, France. I was working for the U.S. Government at the American Embassy and Dale was in the Army. We met at the Officer’s Club and talked into the wee hours. We just connected and were so comfortable with one another. How romantic is it to be in love in Paris? Dale was from New York, I was from California. So, it had to be fate for us to meet in Paris, right? When Dale’s tour was up and my tour with the Government came to a close, I flew to New York and we drove to North Creek, in upstate New York where we married. But first, we had to get our marriage License. The closest place was located in the next county at the hardware store. We were married by the Justice of the Peace who was also the Manager of the A & P. Happily he changed into a tux to marry us on his lunch hour. We set out on a drive across country to California. Dale is the kindest, most patient, loving husband, father and grandfather. My job as a Councilwoman makes family life a challenge, but we make it work out of love and respect for one another.

y name is Amparo Romero Cevallos. I want to share with you my love story. My husband and I have been married 50 years. We met when I was in High School in my country, Ecuador. I was 15 years old and we got married when I was 17 years old and he was 21. He decided to come to the United States in 1963 to live here with his brothers. I stayed behind expecting our first baby. My first son was born in 1964. Soon after, my husband sent for us to be reunited with him here. We were so happy with our lives and we were blessed with our second son, Pablo Alfredo, and enjoyed him for only 6 years then we lost him to cancer. We were devastated, but God gave us strength and comfort to get through that together. Then God blessed us with two daughters and two sons, Billy, Rosie, Ericka and Pablo Esteban Cevallos and 9 grandsons. Our faith in God and our love for each other keeps us together during hard times. And now we have been working in our community, serving the needy, and have been involved with the Sister Cities International. We are also providing help to different countries like Nicaragua and Ecuador, and taking medical missions to the jungle of the Amazon basin for the last 11 years.

e first met in the summer of 1990 when I was 15. I was a volunteer at a concession stand for an annual charity carnival in our hometown of North Hollywood. He was 18 and was an LAPD Explorer working the same carnival. He fell in love with me at first site and knew we would marry. We dated for three years, and as our love grew, so did my fear of settling down at such a young age. In early 1993 we separated. His heart broken and my soul tortured. He married in 1995. I began a relationship in 1994. As the years carried on, our paths were woven closely but they never crossed. He never went a day without thinking of me and I would cry myself to sleep at night with memories. The relationships both ended in 2008 and we found each other again in 2009 reuniting in June on a warm evening. There was rain, lighting and thunder as if the heavens opened up with the angst of torn love that would burn again. We were officially dating again. In December of 2013 we attended his Police Station Christmas party. Jay Leno of the Tonight Show was entertaining that evening. Afterward, Jay handed out the first “raffle” prize and called my name. When I opened the prize, I found a ring inside. In front of 300 of his peers, he asked me to marry him. 23 years later......she said yes! We are to be wed in June 2015.

TOUGH ECONOMIC TIMES, SAFETY & TRAFFIC CALL FOR STRONG LEADERSHIP

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Profiles in Latino Courage:

“M

Edwin Salvatierra

y sister was 2 years old and I was 8 months when my mother risked everything and left us in Guatemala, with our grandmother, to find a better life in America. I remember speaking with her on the phone and getting to know her that way. She told us she loved us and would send for us as soon as she could. She didn’t earn much as a cleaning lady but, every call was loving and hopeful. She was my Superman.” Edwin and his sister spent the next eight years waiting for Superman. And Superman delivered. They arrived in downtown Los Angeles and finally got to see and hug his mother. He realized that Superman was not enough praise for her. “Mom worked very hard to provide for us. She gave us a solid foundation of spiritual values and work ethic,” said Edwin. In school, Edwin had to make a tough choice: get good grades or … gangs. Unless you have been in that environment you don’t know how tough that choice can be. Edwin, never afraid to make the tough choices, chose to get good grades. He graduated in 2002 and went to college until he ran out of money and had to quit. A friend who was a Marine told Edwin how the Marines were changing his life. Edwin was intrigued. He visited a local recruiter. “That was the greatest thing I could have done at the time,” he said. The recruiter was straight forward, honest and very helpful. He asked, “Why do you want to be a Marine?” Edwin answered, “I want to be among the best.” Good answer if you’re speaking with a Marine Recruiter. He then asked Edwin to list his personal goals. Edwin said, “I want to have a career not just a job. I want to own a house. And, I want to leave a legacy of which my family can be proud.” The recruiter responded, “I can help you with the first. The other two are on you.” Edwin entered Boot Camp at Camp Pendleton, CA. Boot Camp ends with the Marine rite of passage: the Crucible. It’s 54-hours of hell designed to test whether or not a recruit has internalized what it means to be a Marine. Recruits face a barrage of events

requiring them to work together to solve problems and overcome obstacles. Fail to complete the Crucible and you’re a civilian again. Complete it and you are a Marine. Edwin completed it. He became a Marine. His role in the Marines was infantry. He completed extensive combat and leadership training before being stationed aboard ship for 7 months in the Pacific. He returned to Camp Pendleton for a short respite. Next stop: Ramadi, Iraq. “When I arrived in Ramadi the bullets started to fly. I was scared that first night. Then my training kicked in and I got a positive adrenalin rush. I knew what I had to do and how to do it. It was not about me, but about my team of Marines. They had my back and I had theirs. In combat a Marine has to trust his training and trust his fellow Marines. And we did.” It took a few months, but what was a highly contested area of operations became mostly pacified thanks in large part to what Edwin and his Marines did. They lost a few good men along the way and suffered some other casualties … people Edwin knew and counted as friends … but the mission was accomplished. After 6 years in infantry, Edwin returned to Camp Pendleton and chose a new role: Marine Recruiter. To be a Marine Recruiter you have to earn it like everything else in the Marines. Edwin went through rigorous training in many subjects including ethics, presentation skills and yes, more leadership skills. He completed the training and today is a Marine Recruiter in Santa Clarita. “I love my job. I really care about the kids. When I meet them I look them straight in the eyes and ask, ‘Why do you want to be a Marine.’ If the answer is, ‘I want to be among the best,’ then I know I have a potential Marine. We put them through a Delayed Entry Program where they develop some physical, mental and ethics capabilities needed to become a Marine. During that time they get to decide if the Marine Corps is right for them.” Did Edwin meet his goals? “Absolutely! I have a great career. I bought my house at age 25. And my family is very proud of who I am.” Edwin lives with his wife, Angelica, and their two children. “Angelica is a very strong woman who, like my mom, has had to put up with immense sacrifice. I truly love and honor them both.” Honor, Courage and Commitment are three words Edwin and all Marines live by.

Sasha’s Story te

a yK

rior to 2009 Sasha never would have dreamed of leaving her home and the life she knew in Costa Rica. She had a comfortable lifestyle and a thriving career as a therapist. Mother to one son from a prior relationship, she had a young daughter and a new baby girl with her American husband. Life could not have been happier. Then suddenly, and without warning, her husband took the baby girl and left for America. Why she did not know. Sasha was desperate to retrieve her daughter. Since she could not enter the United States legally, she and her eldest daughter had to enter illegally. This she did with the help of “friends” of her husband. They helped her, and other women with children, to enter then they turned around and stole all their things. Then they abused them. “It was similar to the Mafia,” she said softly, as her eyes grew wide in her petite face with her hands pressed neatly between her knees. Her big eyes filled with tears as she recalled how the children were separated from the mothers. She explained that she felt as if she were “walking blind.” Having lost one daughter to abduction and another to a Mafia, Sasha was ready to take back control of her life. She would be a victim no longer. She fled her abusers and eventually found her eldest daughter. She was relieved and elated. Still in control, Sasha found and reunited with her husband in Santa Clarita. But, her husband was no longer the loving husband and father she had once known in Costa Rica. He was now a monster. He abused her mentally and physically, even degrading her by stripping her of her clothing before a group of his friends. Finally, Sasha secretly instructed her eldest daughter to tell someone at school what was happening at home. When the police arrived they found marijuana growing in the yard and a litany of other drugs in the house. They also found a partially destroyed wall against which Sasha’s husband had held her against as he beat her. The police arrested her husband and immediately took Sasha and her daughters to a shelter. The shelter depressed her and she left it in December of 2009.

Sasha lived under a bridge while she looked for work. In January 2010, Sasha found Single Mother’s Outreach. She became a volunteer there. They provided her with clothing from The Closet On Main. Single Mother’s Outreach became her family. It was a special place for her because it was a group of single mothers united, all trying to surpass their situations and do what was best for their children. Sasha found a job at a warehouse, and although she has to take five busses to get there, she is still working there today. “If God gives you lemons, make lemonade,” is a quote from DaAnne Smith, Executive Director of Single Mothers Outreach, which particularly resonates with Sasha. The events that Single Mothers Outreach provide such as Adopta-Family and the Christmas skating party allow her children experiences she would not otherwise be able to afford. She has taken the First Aide, Financial Peace University and Life Forward classes offered by Single Mothers Outreach. Sasha feels that single mothers must not only be provided for, but also taught how to thrive. Most importantly, even when “walking blind,” one must never give up walking.

3 1 0

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More setareh! Y

ou asked for it so here she is! Fresh from winning the Miss Mexico USA contest in Las Vegas last month Setareh has been touring in Costa Rica and soon will be competing for a world title in Turkey. Congratulations Setareh Khatibi!

Forget Old Town Newhall… It’s All About Main Street! C owboy legends? That Old West feeling? Sure, we honor them and rightfully so. But for those who long for the days of yore, not so fast Partner. Ever been to Omaha, Denver or Sacramento? They are changed. They’ve gone from Dodge Streets to Main Streets. Taking a gander at what’s going on in ole San Fernando Road, I mean Main Street in Newhall, I’m thinking Sinclair Lewis’ Dodsworth is becoming his Main Street right here.

Take a look at what’s happening down there. The Canyon Theater Guild and Repertory East Playhouse are bringing in visitors with live performances such as It’s a Wonderful Life, Play it Again Sam, and two upcoming delights, The Swim Club and I Love You. You’re Perfect. Now Change. Hmmm, no Cowboys there. Used to be visitors ate at home, came to Newhall for the performances, and headed out to parts unknown as fast as their horses, I mean cars, could take them. But, not anymore. “We ate at El Trocadero before the play and we are going across the street to Pulchella Winery for some relaxing time after,” said one theater attendee. A young couple volunteered, “We had a

great meal at Persia Lounge and after the play we’re headed right down the street to the Newhall Refinery.”

We couldn’t resist. We followed the young guns; I mean young ones, after the play to the refinery. No oil or gas there, just standing room only as we fought our way to the bar. The beer selection was ample and the wine choices were good. The menu had some pretty tasty delights too. Couples and singles gathered on that Friday night. Just to make sure I wasn’t dreaming I went back again Saturday night. Boom! Same thing. Packed house with lots of young people hanging out like this was Sunset Boulevard. And there is more on the way. Lima Limon, Santa Clarita’s outstanding Peruvian Restaurant, is coming to Main Street. Persia Lounge is bringing its own entertainment including belly dancers. And with Disney scheduled to open a new studio nearby, expect Main Street to continue to develop at a feverish pitch.

Main Street: Catch the Fever! 23

The Youth Hormone

Naomi Carmona-Morshead Always Young

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SCV Arts and Entertainment by gloria locke

2014!G

od bless you this year. The SCV-Arts team is praying that Joy will fill your heart

this year. One thing we remember growing up is having the arts as part of life. The Santa Clarita Performing Arts Center at College of the Canyons presents everything wondrous that we remember for kids and grandkids, or for a memorable date night to cherish. “It’s my favorite place,” says little Loren when she visited the PAC with her family. “When I was young, my mother would bring me to the performing arts center for orchestras. I’m bringing my children so they can experience the same,” said Tenisha Stewart of Santa Clarita. PAC executive director, Evy Warshawski, is the genius behind the masterful calendar of stellar performances planned in every detail to create an experience to thrill all ages. Warshawski makes each performance

a personal experience, allowing many opportunities to meet and greet the performers. “I’ve probably booked Rockapella about six times now. They never fail to charm an audience,” said Warshawski during a recent CD signing after a concert. “And who doesn’t like to laugh, right? The genre of Comedy fits perfectly into our eclectic PAC season,” she said before introducing the PAC Comedy Series. “It’s going to be fun. It’s going to be really fun.” The casts and performers bring their best to Santa Clarita audiences. “Everything that I have in my heart will be put on stage tonight,” said author/actor/comedian, Paul Reiser. Live performances bring an electric, engaging, and entertaining adventure unlike anything else. In an age where digital devices may delude the richness of live performance, 2014 may be the year to revisit the real thing. “In this day and age, there’s so much technology. We’re the only storytellers left. I think it’s so important that storytelling isn’t dead. This exact performance won’t ever happen again and everybody here got to share that with us,” said Christina Ramirez

the arts in my opinion by Laurie Morgan

Visual and Performing Artist

have the good fortune to have been cast in live theater productions, movies, TV shows and commercials as well as the opportunity to exhibit my paintings at various venues. Sometimes I’m paid and sometimes not. A question I get asked often is: How do I get past being an amateur actor to become a career professional? Actors want to make a living doing what they do best, acting. In most cases, making a living in acting requires membership in a union. There are two essential unions for professional actors: Actors’ Equity Association (AEA) and (SAG/AFTRA), Screen Actors Guild and the American Federation of Television and Radio Artists. When you join the union you are no longer permitted to take a non-union role, so when you are just starting out it is usually wise to do non-union while you are gaining experience. There is, however, an exception. Hey, in

of TheatreWorks USA and cast member in Henry & Mudge. SCV-Arts is going “Back at the PAC” for music, theatre, and dance. Let us know if you agree with the patrons by sharing your reviews on our Facebook page. “I loved the show!” says Jared after experiencing Henry and Mudge musical theatre. “It was natural and it was beautiful,” says Bob Locke, after hearing the vocals of Rockapella. Big thanks to Evy Warshawski and the Santa Clarita Performing Arts Center at College of the Canyons for bringing patrons special memories that only a live performances can produce: engaging, electric, eclectic and excellent entertainment. Gloria Locke is co-producer of SCV-Arts & Entertainment which airs locally on SCVTV Ch 20 on Sunday and Wednesday evenings. Find out more at www.SCVArts.com.

acting there are always exceptions! AEA allows its members to perform at theaters that have less than 100 seats without salary compensation, but instead are given a stipend. This allows both professional and amateur actors to perform in the same productions as long as the theater seats less than 100 people. Locally, the Repertory East Playhouse meets that requirement, as their union actors are paid the stipend. The Canyon Theater Guild doesn’t pay nor is required to pay its actors.

But, alas, performing at these theaters will not get you into the union. In the end, whether you perform at the Ahmanson, Pantages, CTG or the REP, if you behave as a professional you are a professional…in my opinion.

OK, so does that mean the actor isn’t a professional if he or she isn’t union? No. As long as the actor is spending a substantial amount of time performing in the theaters under the 99 seat plan, they may be considered professional. Are they amateurs if they perform at the REP or CTG? The Repertory East Playhouse is under the plan, so according to the information above, actors performing there may be considered professional. Even though the CTG is not under the plan, many actors who perform there are professionals. And according to my article last month: “Persons who devote a major portion of their time to creating, practicing, performing or teaching any of the arts can be considered a professional.”

Catch the following Visual and Performing Arts Venues in February: Oliver ESCAPE Theatre Feb. 7-9, 2014, various times World Beat Series An Acoustic Evening with Lonestar Feb. 15, 2014, 8 pm Chancellor’s Choice Series Happily Ever After - A Cinderella Tale Pushcart Players Feb. 22, 2014, 2 pm Young at Heart Series Ladysmith Black Mambazo Feb. 28, 2014, 8 pm World Beat Series

jim ventress remembers

martin luther king, jr. by michele buttelman

he Our Valley Group prides itself in honoring and embracing diversity. As we approach Martin Luther King, Jr.s’ birthday, we asked features writer Michele Buttelman to interview one of our most prominent citizens who happens to be African American to get his thoughts on Martin Luther King Jr. “I was just out of high school and coaching my brother’s CYO basketball team when I got the word,” Jim Ventress said. “I haven’t seen my dad cry too often, but I remember him at the dinner table wiping his eyes and reading the Herald-Examiner.” Jim Ventress, chief professional officer of the Boys & Girls Club of Santa Clarita Valley, remembers vividly where he was when he heard about the assassination of Martin Luther King, Jr. Ventress has always been an admirer of the groundbreaking civil rights leader. “When I think of Martin Luther King the thing that stands out most to me is that he stood up for what was right and the right thing to do for our country.” Ventress said King was also able to generate support from a wide diversity of people.

“America is a diverse country and King’s leadership was able to attract all kinds of people,” he said. “The diversity of people he was surrounded by reflected all of America. Look at all the people that marched with him, you saw all types of people. He was nonviolent, too.” In addition, Ventress said he admired King for being a “man of faith.” “His faith was important to him, his family was important to him, but he took up a cause and he paid with his life for what he believed in.” He still “gets the chills” every time he hears King’s “I Have a Dream” speech. “How do you top that?” he said. Ventress said it is interesting to think about the “what ifs” and “what might have been different” in America if King had lived. “What more could have been accomplished if he had lived?” said Ventress. “But, you also have to realize what was accomplished by his death.”

why martin luther king, jr. matters today by bill miranda

omeone once said to me, “Martin Luther King Day is when Blacks honor one of their great leaders.” What?! To consider Martin Luther King a leader of only Blacks is to totally misunderstand his relevance. Yes, he preached for racial equality, but just as importantly he preached for social and economic equality. And, in my opinion, by equality he meant equal opportunity.

There were no women in the military, fire department, police department or paid athletes. There were no Black, Asian, Latino or Female CEO’s. Gays stayed in closets for fear of mental and physically abuses.

Why does Martin Luther King, Jr. matter today? Because he helped free all Americans from the social injustices of the past and helped create the mostly just system of living we have When I was a boy doing homework at the kitchen table today. So let us all be mindful that January 20th is a day when my mother yelled from the living room for me to run to see all Americans should something on television. I ran and saw Roberto Clemente at rejoice, reflect and bat for the Pittsburg Pirates. My mother was near tears as was honor the legacy of my father. I said, “What happened?” scared that something Martin Luther King, tragic had occurred. “Look! Look!” they shouted in unison. Jr. “It’s Roberto Clemente! He’s Puerto Rican!” Why would anyone make such a fuss about a Puerto Rican on television? Because there were no Puerto Ricans on television and hardly any Blacks, Asians, Latinos, etc. There were no women anchors, newscasters, not even pretty weather ladies.

buying a car when you are retired by arif halaby

ry before you buy: Before buying a new car, consider living with the car payment or lease payment beforehand. Do this by saving the amount of the car payment from your budget in a separate savings account. Try this for a minimum of three months. This will allow you to see the impact of the car payment on your lifestyle.

Think beyond today’s health needs: The cars you bought in the past were purchased in part because of what they can do for you. In the future, your car may have multiple uses. Now, you may not need to consider health limitations. But, in the future you may. For example, today your hips and knees may work relatively fine. However, getting in and out of a car that is too high or too low may be difficult in the future. Once retired, your income will be fixed. Consider the future use of the car you buy today and how it will be used in the future.

Providing transportation for your grandchildren may be part of your new role: Buying a fancy sports car might have sounded like a good idea at the time, but the practicality of picking up or dropping off current or future grandkids can be impacted. You may need room for car seats or multiple children. If you can afford it, you may want to consider buying two cars, practical and exciting! Try being the passenger for a day: One of the biggest mistakes people can make when buying a car is not testing the front passenger seat or the back seats. This is for the consideration of others, and for a more selfish reason, who knows one day you may be a passenger in your own car. As you age, there may be times when you need a ride. Sometimes that ride comes from your own car. Where you live could mean everything: If you plan on retiring in the same climate area as you live now, then you may not have to reconsider your purchase. However, if you plan on moving to the mountains or the ocean your vehicle needs could change. For example, a beach move could mean the purchase of a convertible car. But if you chose the mountains where it snows, a four wheel drive vehicle could make all the difference.

The Pharmacist at the Frontline of Your Health: February is American Heart Month By D. K. Smith

ebruary has long been associated with Valentine’s Day, a time to focus on special relationships and matters of the heart. In line with “matters of the heart” this month, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recognizes American Heart Month. Heart disease is a serious matter. In fact, according to the CDC, it is the leading cause of death for both men and women. The good news is heart disease is preventable and controllable. Moazzem H. Chowdhury, pharmacist at Desert Drug Pharmacy cites education and awareness as key issues in preventing and controlling heart disease. “Know the signs and symptoms of a heart attack, and if experienced, do not hesitate to call 911,” Chowdhury states.

Chowdhury lists the major symptoms of a heart attack as pain or discomfort in the jaw, neck, or back, feeling weak, light-headed, or faint, discomfort in the chest, arms, or shoulder, and shortness of breath. For optimal heart health, Chowdhury recommends the following: Maintain a balanced, low fat, low sodium diet rich in fruits and vegetables, exercise regularly, avoid smoking and excessive drinking, monitor your blood pressure, see your doctor for regular checkups and cholesterol tests, and follow any prescribed medication regimen. Lowering or managing stress is important as well. Take time out to spend with friends, family, and your “special someone.” Living a lifestyle that balances work with healthy leisure time will improve not only your overall health, but also your relationships with others. And as always, consider your pharmacist as an important member of your healthcare team. A pharmacist can answer questions pertaining to your medications, whether they be “matters of the heart,” or other health concerns. Call Desert Drug Pharmacy at 661-298-3135, or visit us at 18635 Soledad Canyon Road, Suite 102, Canyon Country, CA 91350, and speak to pharmacist Moazzem H. Chowdhury. We also have a second location, Newhall Pharmacy: 661-799-7017 located at 23768 Newhall Avenue, Newhall, CA 91321.

Love stinks?

by pastor dennis stoneman

alentine’s Day reminds me of the old Pepe Le Pew cartoon. Pepe is a skunk who is a tireless romantic and longing to fall in love. Enter the unwitting cat who accidently has a stripe painted down its back and has caught Pepe’s eye. Pepe does everything to win the heart of the unwitting cat that he thinks is a skunk. Of course the cat is not interested because of the smell. The cat won’t return the affections of the skunk, not because the skunk is not sincere, but because the skunk stinks.

This is a sad picture for us fellow romantics. We’d like love but if we are like Pepe –we stink! No amount of sincerity, overture, or ambiance is going to change the undeniable fact that there is something repulsive about us. This is a great gospel analogy. The Bible says, “As for you, you were dead in your transgressions and sins…” Ephesians 2:1 It means-- nothing about us is attractive to God. There are no redeeming qualities, no character traits, and no monumental efforts that could make us attractive to God to earn His affections. All there is, is a great stench. We were dead so we couldn’t make any overture toward God to make him notice us so He could love us. But the gospel is GOOD NEWS. So we read further, “But because of His great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy, made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in transgressions—it is by grace you have been saved.” Ephesians 2:4-5 So what the Bible is saying that God saw how much we stunk, how dead our sins had made us and decided to do something about it. What did He do? He got into the middle of our muddle, sent His One and only Son, Jesus Christ into the world to be the remedy for our sin disease and now through Christ we can be made alive, transformed by the great love of God for us in Jesus Christ.

For to all of you tireless romantics out there, to all of us Pepe’s, there is hope for a happy Valentine’s Day. There is hope of the transformation of our hearts from old to new and this is the gift of God through Jesus Christ. By Dennis Stoneman, Pastor Valencia Hills Community Church which meets at the Valencia High School Gymnasium Sundays @ 9 & 10:30 AM

Winner Best Medium Size Business in Santa Clarita

Believe in Yourself

to Get the Results

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otivational speakers, good ones, get us all pumped up and wanting to conquer the world. That’s good. The problem lies in taking that pumped up feeling and turning it into accomplishing the goals you want to accomplish. Why is that a problem? Because once we leave the venue of euphoric optimism we end up alone in our cars with only our belief system to guide us. And guide us it does. Unfortunately, most of us don’t believe ... in ourselves. You say to yourself, “I really want to (name your goal), but I’m not sure (you don’t believe) I can get there from here.” And so by not believing in yourself you inadvertently limit your potential and when you limit your potential you don’t take the actions needed to get the results you desire. Why? It’s because you don’t believe in yourself.

By Bill Miranda, CEO

place. Use I can and get rid of I can’t. While you’re at it get rid of negative words, things, feelings and ... people. Oh, I don’t mean shoot them or even ban them to Siberia, but winners hang with winners and losers don’t. “I think I can” becomes “I know I can” when you start to believe in yourself. I know I can expands your potential because now you are willing to go beyond your previously self-imposed restrictions. When your potential expands you are more motivated to take the actions needed to get the results your want. And it all starts with believing in yourself. To comment on this or read other columns please visit

www. OurValleyGroup.com/blog.

So how do we turn this around? How do we go from limiting our potential to expanding our potential? Simple, believe in yourself. Believe in yourself! As Leonardo DiCaprio shouted in the movie Titanic, “I’m the King of the World!” so should you. Start by putting your mind in the right

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