Monthly Archives: December 2016

Cinema, Diego, LA Life and Style, Los Angeles Life and Style, The Movies, Universal Cinema, Universal Studios City Walk

Universal CityWalk’s AMC Theatre Receives Multi-Million Dollar Upgrade Creating All-New State-of-the-Art Universal Cinema

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Universal CityWalk’s AMC Theatre Receives Multi-Million Dollar Upgrade Creating All-New State-of-the-Art Universal Cinema Debuting Just in Time for a Slate of Must-See Holiday Movies


$5 Movie General Parking with Theatre Ticket Box Office Rebate

Hollywood, Calif. – Universal City, California, December 13, 2016 – Universal CityWalk unwraps a multi-million dollar renovation of its AMC Theatre to create an all-new state-of-the-art Universal Cinema, debuting just in time for the holidays and offering movie-goers a chance to catch the latest seasonal blockbusters from the comfort of deluxe, recliner seating.

For film buffs, CityWalk has long been the epicenter for fans seeking an environment that matches the excitement of their favorite blockbuster movies. As part of if its bold revitalization, CityWalk now elevates the movie-going experience to new heights as the 18-screen and IMAX AMC Theatre updates with the most technologically advanced sight and sound achievements.  A complete remodel of the split level structure includes the installation of deluxe recliner seats in 18 theatres—the equivalent of those found in Hollywood screening rooms—making every seat, the best seat in the house.

Each redesigned theatre has been fully upgraded with Christie RGB Laser projection, Dolby Atmos immersive surround sound and equipped with Christie Vive speakers for optimal audio performance.  The installation of new, state-of-the art screens, perforated to enable 360 degree audio, complement the overall enhancements.

The recent upgrade to the IMAX theatre features next-generation 4K laser projection and 12-channel sound systems designed to enhance the entire movie-going experience and provide audiences with sharper, brighter, clearer and more vivid digital images than ever.

The Director’s Lounge Cocktail Bar—an all-new dedicated and stylish second level retreat, flanked by the upper level theatres—adds a charismatic new dimension to the space as it blends high-tech elegance with chic sophistication for casual pre- and post- movie-going fun. Beverages served at the Lounge can also be taken into the second level theatres.

Additionally, movie-goers can enjoy $5 Movie General Parking with the purchase of a movie ticket.

The below December holiday film release schedule offers movie-goers a diverse selection of blockbusters to enjoy at the new Universal Cinema, including:

Opening           Film                                                Cast
Dec. 16             Rogue One: A Star Wars Story Felicity Jones, Diego Luna, Mads Mikkelsen
Dec. 16             Collateral Beauty                        Will Smith, Helen Mirren, Edward Norton
Dec. 16             Solace                                          Anthony Hopkins, Jeffrey Dean Morgan,
            Colin Farrell
Dec. 21             Assassin’s Creed                       Michael Fassbender, Marion Cotillard,
        Jeremy Irons
Dec. 21             Passengers                                Chris Pratt, Jennifer Lawrence, Michael Sheen
Dec. 21             Sing                                             Matthew McConaughey, Reese Witherspoon,
         Scarlett Johansson
Dec. 21             Patriots Day                                Mark Wahlberg, J.K. Simmons, John Goodman
Dec. 23             Silence                                        Liam Neeson, Adam Driver, Andrew Garfield
Dec. 23             Why Him?                                  Bryan Cranston, James Franco, Zoey Deutch
Dec. 23             A Monster Calls                        Sigourney Weaver, Felicity Jones, Toby Kebbell
Dec. 25             Live By Night                            Ben Affleck, Sienna Miller, Zoe Saldana
Dec. 25             Fences                                       Denzel Washington, Viola Davis, Stephen Henderson

Since 1993, CityWalk has boosted the city’s rhythm through a foundation built on providing memorable entertainment experiences.  With a series of dramatic enhancements currently underway that includes the introduction of new restaurants, shopping experiences, visually aesthetic design features and the completed state-of-the-art movie theatre renovation, the spotlight shines brightly on CityWalk as it continues to resonate as one of L.A.’s most influential lifestyle centers.

More information on CityWalk is available at www.CityWalkHollywood.com. Regular updates can also be found on CityWalk’s Twitter @CityWalkLA, Facebook-Universal CityWalk Hollywoodand on CityWalk’s Instagram @CityWalkLA.

Universal Studios Hollywood™ is The Entertainment Capital of L.A. and includes a full-day, movie-based theme park and Studio Tour. As a leading global entertainment destination, Universal Studios Hollywood delivers highly themed immersive lands that translate to real-life interpretations of iconic movie and television shows. Recent additions include “The Wizarding World of Harry Potter TM” which features a bustling Hogsmeade village and such critically-acclaimed rides as “Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey” and “Flight of the Hippogriff™,” Universal Studios Hollywood’s first outdoor rollercoaster, as well the all-new “The Walking Dead” daytime attraction.  Other immersive lands include “Despicable Me Minion Mayhem” and “Super Silly Fun Land” as well as “Springfield,” hometown of America’s favorite TV family, located adjacent to the award-winning “The Simpsons RideTM”. The world-renowned Studio Tour is Universal Studios Hollywood’s flagship attraction, inviting guests behind-the-scenes of the world’s biggest and busiest movie and television studio where they can also experience such authentic and immersive thrill rides as “Fast & Furious—Supercharged.”  The destination also features the Universal CityWalk entertainment, shopping and dining complex, including the Universal CityWalk Cinemas and the “5 Towers” state-of-the-art outdoor concert venue.

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THE WINGS FOR LIFE WORLD RUN SET TO RETURN TO SANTA CLARITA ON MAY 7, 2017, to raise funds for Spinal Cord Research. Santa Clarita residents can receive the $30 registration by signing up before January 1, 2017

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Event participants prepare to compete in the Wings For Life World Run in Santa Clarita, California, USA on March 08, 2016 // Garth Milan for Wings for Life World Run // P-20160519-00935 // Usage for editorial use only // Please go to www.redbullcontentpool.com for further information. //
Event participants prepare to compete in the Wings For Life World Run in Santa Clarita, California, USA on March 08, 2016 / Garth Milan for Wings for Life World Run.

Santa Clarita, Calif. –The Wings for Life World Run has announced its return to the City of Santa Clarita for the fourth consecutive year, as participants everywhere unite to find a cure for spinal cord injury. Of 24 locations worldwide, Santa Clarita will be the only West Coast city in the United States to host the global race on Sunday, May 7, 2017. Santa Clarita joins Sunrise, Florida as the only two United States cities to host this event.   

“This is such a fun and exciting event for our City to host year after year. It’s very surreal to be awake before the sun comes up and running on streets we normally drive on,” said Mayor Bob Kellar. “You don’t need to be an excellent runner to participate in this event, so I encourage all members of the community to take part and support this inspiring and unique experience in our hometown.”

Unlike traditional races, the Wings for Life World Run has no set distance or finish line. Instead, competitors will begin racing at Westfield Valencia Town Center simultaneously with participants around the world while trying to avoid being stopped by an advancing “Catcher Car.” The “Catcher Car” is an innovative moving finish line that takes off 30 minutes after the start at every race location and steadily increases its speed until it passes all of the participants.

Santa Clarita residents can receive the $30 registration by signing up before January 1, 2017 on WingsForLifeWorldRun.com. For more information about Santa Clarita’s involvement in the Wings for Life World Run, please contact Evan Thomason, Santa Clarita Economic Development Associate, at (661) 286-4167 or ethomason@santa-clarita.com.

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SANTA CLARITA TRANSIT TO OFFER HOLIDAY LIGHT TOUR

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SANTA CLARITA TRANSIT TO OFFER HOLIDAY LIGHT TOUR
Come see some of the best local displays of holiday cheer in Santa Clarita Valley onboard the Hometown Trolle­y or one of their local Dial-A-Ride vehicles. Trips will be offered both Friday, December 16 and Saturday, December 17.

Santa Clarita, Calif. –This holiday season Santa Clarita Transit once again welcomes residents and visitors alike to join them on a Holiday Light Tour. Come see some of the best local displays of holiday cheer in Santa Clarita Valley onboard the Hometown Trolle­y or one of their local Dial-A-Ride vehicles. Trips will be offered both Friday, December 16 and Saturday, December 17. Passengers can board at the McBean Regional Transit Center located at the corner of McBean Parkway and Valencia Boulevard. Holiday Light Tour trips depart every 30 minutes between 6:00 p.m. and 9:00 p.m.

The tour will include two routes.  The first route offered on December 16, will visit decorated homes in the Saugus and Valencia communities; while the second route offered December 17, will explore the Newhall and Stevenson Ranch communities.

Tickets are first-come, first-served, and can be purchased upon boarding for $3.00 per person, or free with the donation of canned food or other essential items for the Santa Clarita Valley Food Pantry. VisitSantaClaritaTransit.com for a link to suggested donations. Last year residents donated over 225lbs of food each night.

For more information about Santa Clarita Transit’s Holiday Light Tour, and for tour updates, contact Santa Clarita Transit at (661) 294-1BUS (1287) or visit SantaClaritaTransit.com.

 

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CITY OF SANTA CLARITA RECEIVES PUBLIC WORKS AWARD Lost Canyon Road Bridge Widening Project Recognized for Best Improvement for Public Safety

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The Lost Canyon Road Bridge widening project was completed in May of this year. After six months of construction, the Lost Canyon Road Bridge located next to the Santa Clara River in Canyon Country, was successfully widened by 16 feet on the north side.

CITY OF SANTA CLARITA RECEIVES PUBLIC WORKS AWARD

Santa Clarita, Calif. –The City of Santa Clarita has been recognized by the High Desert Branch of the American Public Works Association (APWA) with an award for “Best Improvement for Public Safety” for the Lost Canyon Road Bridge widening project. The Branch represents public works jurisdictions located in Santa Clarita, Victorville, Lancaster and Palmdale.  The award was presented at the High Desert Branch of the American Public Works Association’s year-end banquet.

The Lost Canyon Road Bridge widening project was completed in May of this year. After six months of construction, the Lost Canyon Road Bridge located next to the Santa Clara River in Canyon Country, was successfully widened by 16 feet on the north side.

In addition, the project added 4-foot shoulders along both sides of the existing travel lanes to provide extra space on the roadway.  A new raised 10-foot wide concrete walkway on the north side of the bridge was also added to allow residents to safely cross the bridge.  The path is part of future trail improvements connecting from Vista Canyon Development to Sand Canyon Road.

The American Public Works Association is a non-profit, professional association of public works agencies, private companies, and individuals working to promote professional excellence and public awareness of public works through education, advocacy and the exchange of knowledge.  To learn more about the High Desert Branch Southern California Chapter, please visit www.apwahdsoca.com.

Please contact Brian Glidden of Arrow Engineering for more information about the awards program at (661) 949-2525 or bglidden@aesi-consulting.com. For more information about the Lost Canyon Road Bridge widening project, please contact Project Manager James Tong at (661) 255-4366 or jtong@santa-clarita.com.

Art Scene, Ghost Band, Los Angeles Life and Style, SCV Style

Ghost Band, an art installation by “Six”

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Ghost Band, an art installation by “Six”
Ghost Band, an art installation by “Six”

Santa Clarita, CA – “Ghost Band” is coming to Santa Clarita, showcasing and honoring musicians in memoriam.

The altar uses full size instruments that are painted completely white.  A drum set, bass guitar and amp, microphone and mic stand, guitar and guitar amp, as well as microphone cables and instrument cables complete the band portion of the piece.  The instruments are arranged in a typical band performance type set-up.

The piece is meant to be interactive.  The public are encouraged to write notes or remembrances to a musician that they either knew personally, or respected.  Notes can be placed into an open guitar case as a final step.

ABOUT “SIX”

“Six” is a visual artist, musician, curator, and event producer.  He has spent the past 20+ years developing a variety of events and programs for the Autry National Center, Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History, and the City of Santa Clarita in the Arts & Events Division.  “Six” has been playing drums since he was 9 years old, and currently plays drums and sings back-up vocals for the popular Ventura Rockabilly band Hard Six.  “Six” has curated 70+ art exhibitions over the past 8 years, and was inspired to create his own work as a result of experiencing the art made by others.  “My goal with my art is to help people remember their own pasts.  I develop art that provides a reason to reminisce about your past, and think about the good times, the funny times, the sad times, and the journey.  I also enjoy creating art that is interactive.  I want those that view my work to be inspired to play along!”

WHEN:   Opening Night is Friday, December 9 from 5pm to 10 pm

FREE Wine & Cheese Reception:  Saturday, December 10 from 7 pm to 10 pm.

Daytime Exhibit Hours on December 10:  11 am to 7 pm

WHERE:  The ARTree – Studio 2 – 22508 6th Street, Newhall, CA 91321

Hollywood Walk of Fame, LA Life and Style, Los Angeles Life and Style

Hollywood Chamber to Honor Ryan Reynolds with Walk of Fame Star

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Hollywood, Calif. – The Hollywood Chamber of Commerce is proud to announce that actor Ryan Reynolds will be honored with the 2,596th star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame on Thursday, December 15, 2016 at 11:30 a.m. PST. The star in the category of Motion Pictures will be dedicated at 6801 Hollywood Boulevard in front of the Hollywood & Highland Complex.

Helping Emcee and Hollywood Chamber President/CEO Leron Gubler to unveil the star will be guest speakers Anna Faris, Rhett Reese and Paul Wernick.

“Since Ryan Reynolds was selected to be honored with a Walk of Fame star, fans from around the world have always been asking when Ryan Reynolds is getting his star… Well, now is the time and we invite all to enjoy the last ceremony of the year on December 15th!” stated Walk of Fame producer Ana Martinez.

The Hollywood Chamber of Commerce which administers the popular star ceremonies encourages people who are unable to attend and fans around the world to watch the event live exclusively on www.walkoffame.com.

Hollywood Chamber to Honor Ryan Reynolds with Walk of Fame Star
The Hollywood Chamber of Commerce will honor Ryan Reynolds with a star on Hollywood’s Walk of Fame. The event will be live-streamed exclusively on www.walkoffame.com.

Ryan Reynolds is one of Hollywood’s most diverse leading men seamlessly transitioning through varied genres of drama, action and comedy in his rich and ever evolving career.

Reynolds is the star of the 20th Century Fox record breaking film “Deadpool.”. The movie opened in February 2016 and shattered expectations, opening to $152.2-million over the four-day Presidents’ Day weekend making it the biggest R-rated opening of all time and the biggest February opening in box office history. The superhero juggernaut also replaced “The Matrix Reloaded” as the highest-grossing R-rated film in history with more than $750-million globally. Reynolds, who also produced the film, will begin shooting “Deadpool 2” in 2017.

Reynolds recently completed production on two films: “Life” and “The Hitman’s Bodyguard.” In “Life,” he teamed up once again with Reese and Wernick, for the sci-fi thriller which will be released May 26, 2017. In “The Hitman’s Bodyguard” Reynolds stars opposite Samuel L Jackson in the Patrick Hughes film which will be released in August 2017.

Reynolds’ body of work is extremely diverse. In 2015 he starred in a variety of feature roles including “Mississippi Grind,” “Woman In Gold,” “The Voices” and “Selfless.” “Mississippi Grind” directed by Ryan Fleck and Anna Boden premiered at Sundance to rave reviews. In The Weinstein Company’s “Woman In Gold,” Reynolds starred alongside Helen Mirren to tell the story of Maria Altmann (Mirren), a Jewish refugee who is forced to flee Vienna during World War II and her personal mission to reclaim a painting the Nazis stole from her family: the famous Lady In Gold. In Lionsgate’s serial killer comedy “The Voices” by famed French director Marjane Satrapi, Reynolds stars as a troubled, med-addicted factory worker driven to murder by his talking pets, a psychopathic cat called Mr. Whiskers and Bosco, his peace-loving dog. Reynolds also voices both of the animals. He also starred opposite Sir Ben Kingsley in the independent feature “Selfless,” directed by Tarsem Singh.

Reynolds voiced two DreamWorks Animation films in 2013. “Turbo,” in which Reynolds voices a snail named ‘Turbo’ who has dreams of winning the Indy 500. The movie also features the voices of Samuel L. Jackson, Maya Rudolph, Snoop Lion and Michelle Rodriguez. Prior to that, Reynolds had his animated film debut as the voice of ‘Guy’ in DreamWorks Animation’s, “The Croods.” The movie also featured the voices of Nicolas Cage, Emma Stone and Catherine Keener and earned over $508-million worldwide. Reynolds has signed onto the sequel, which is already in development.

His other film credits include: the Universal action thriller, “Safe House” opposite Denzel Washington. The film opened to $40-million domestically in its first weekend and went onto earn $208-million worldwide. The Universal comedy, “The Change Up,” opposite Jason Bateman, the Warner Brothers adaptation of the popular DC Comic, “Green Lantern” and the mystery/thriller “Buried.” In the acclaimed and cinematically challenging film Reynolds is the only actor to appear on camera for the duration of the piece.

In 2009, Reynolds served as Disney’s romantic comedy lead in “The Proposal,” opposite Sandra Bullock. The film opened at No. 1 at the box office and grossed $315-million worldwide. Reynolds was also seen as ‘Deadpool’ in the “X-Men” spin-off, “X-Men Origins: Wolverine.” He starred opposite an all-star cast including Hugh Jackman and the film grossed $365-million worldwide. Additionally that year, [say in 2009] Reynolds starred in “Adventureland” opposite Kristen Stewart which premiered at the Sundance Film Festival and was nominated in the “Ensemble Performance” category at the 2009 Gotham Awards.

Some of Reynolds other film credits include: “Paperman;” and the Working Title Films’ “Definitely, Maybe” for Universal Pictures; writer/director John August’s “The Nines,” director Joe Carnahan’s “Smokin’ Aces” for Working Title Films and Universal Pictures and “The Amityville Horror;” a remake of the classic cult film which opened No. 1 at the box office and made $107 worldwide; as well as cult favorites “Waiting” and “Van Wilder.”

DarkFire, Reynolds’ TV production company, recently sold its first two projects, the live action comedy “Guidance” and the animated comedy “And Then There Was Gordon” to 20th Century Fox TV. Reynolds will executive produce alongside Allan Loeb, Jonathon Komack Martin, Tim Dowling and Steven Pearl.

In addition to his numerous leading roles, Reynolds also serves on the board of directors for the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research. In 2007, Reynolds ran the New York City Marathon in honor of his father – who long suffered from ravages of Parkinson’s disease. Reynolds marathon run raised over $100,000 for the Michael J Fox Foundation.

www.walkoffame.com

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THURSDAYS@NEWHALL BRINGS LIVE MUSIC TO MAIN STREET, Dec 8 2016

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THURSDAYS@NEWHALL BRINGS LIVE MUSIC TO MAIN STREET Dec. 8, 2016
THURSDAYS@NEWHALL BRINGS LIVE MUSIC TO MAIN STREET Dec. 8, 2016

Returning to Main Street this Thursday, December 8, is one of Thursdays@Newhall’s favorite events, Note by Note. Beginning at 7:00 p.m., the singer/songwriter night features five acts for an evening of entertainment. Note by Note takes place at the Repertory East Playhouse, located at 24266 Main Street.

Note by Note allows professional and aspiring songwriters a platform to showcase their songs in front of a live audience in the City’s Arts and Entertainment District of Old Town Newhall. The event also allows the community to hear new music as each songwriter performs four original songs.

Santa Clarita resident, Sara Niemietz, will entertain the crowd with her talent and voice. She has starred on Broadway, appeared on television and in film, recorded vocals for many scores and projects, released four albums and has even performed in Times Square for 50,000 people.

Note by Note performer, Tim Propersi is another Santa Clarita resident, who is a guitarist, songwriter and private music instructor. In addition to performing, he has also worked with sound design and audio/video editing.

Antje Zumbansen, a Berlin-based singer/songwriter will grace the stage with her strong melodies and soaring lyrics about life, love and the wonders of the universe.

Other performers include Jen Hajj and J.C. Hyke. Note by Note takes place on the second Thursday of every month. For more information about Note by Note and other Thursdays@Newhall events, visitThursdaysAtNewhall.com or contact the City’s Arts and Events Office at (661) 250-3787. Also, be sure to follow along on the Thursdays@Newhall fun at Facebook.com/ThursAtNewhall.com.

Santa Clarita Libraries, SCV Style

Santa Clarita LIBRARIES HOST FESTIVE Family ACTIVITIES THROUGH DECEMBER

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Santa Clarita, Calif. – The Santa Clarita Public Libraries are providing families with plenty of occasions to embrace the spirit of the holidays through the month of December. The Canyon Country Jo Anne Darcy Library, Old Town Newhall Library and Valencia Library invite you and your family to come decorate cookies, enjoy holiday stories and so much more.

December 2­­ – 4, the Friends of the Library are hosting the Annual Gingerbread Contest at the Valencia Library. All gingerbread house submissions can be brought to the Valencia Library, at 23743 W. Valencia Blvd, on Friday, December 2, from 3:00 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. All gingerbread houses will be on display for the public to view on December 3, from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., and December 4, from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. Winners of the contest will be announced at 10:15 a.m. on December 4.

On Wednesday, December 7, from 6:00 p.m. to 7:15 p.m., the family can enjoy a holiday-themed, musical story time and craft at the Valencia Library, at 23743 W. Valencia Blvd.

Roll up your sleeves and decorate cookies on Friday, December 9, from 2:00 p.m. to 3:30 p.m., at the Old Town Newhall Library, located at 24500 Main Street.

Saturday, December 10, from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m., the Canyon Country Jo Anne Darcy Library, at 18601 Soledad Canyon Road, is welcoming families to the Make and Take Holiday Cards event. Come design handmade greetings for your family and friends.

The Old Town Newhall Library is offering a special Christmas story time, reindeer games and holiday crafts on Tuesday, December 13 from 6:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. The Old Town Newhall Library is located at 24500 Main Street.

Children, ages kindergarten to 5th grade, are invited to decorate gingerbread cookies at the Valencia Library, at 23743 W. Valencia Boulevard, for the fourth year in a row. This event is set forWednesday, December 14, 6:00 p.m. to 7:15 p.m. Registration is required and will be available starting Wednesday, December 7 at 8:00 a.m.

Wednesday, December 21, is going to the elves at Canyon Country Jo Anne Darcy Library, located at 18601 Soledad Canyon Road, from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. The Elf Ball celebration will have fun activities like making marshmallow shooters, elf hats and more. Come fish with candy canes and participate in other elfish games. It doesn’t matter if you come late or leave early, but parent supervision is required. This event is going to be a lot of fun for the entire family.

Hanukkah Storytime with Wendy Hersh and Rabbi Mark Blazer will be taking place December 27 – 29 at each of the Santa Clarita Libraries. On Tuesday, December 27, from 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., Storytime can be enjoyed at the Canyon Country Jo Anne Darcy Library, located at 18601 Soledad Canyon Road. On Wednesday, December 28, from 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., Hanukkah Storytime will be at theValencia Library, 23743 W. Valencia Boulevard. Storytime will be at the Old Town Newhall Library, at 24500 Main Street, Thursday, December 29, from 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.

To finish off the month of holiday activities, author Greg Wolfe will be reading his story, Shmelf the Hanukkah Elf. This event will be on Friday, December 30, from 4:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m., at the Old Town Newhall Library, 24500 Main Street.

For more information regarding any of these events, visit SantaClaritaLibrary.com or call the Santa Clarita Public Library at (661) 259-0750.