Q: The last few months saw record numbers of COVID patients at hospitals around the nation, but also here at Henry Mayo Newhall Hospital. Our frontline healthcare workers have been enduring the stress and strain of the pandemic for nearly a year now. What message would you want to send to them?
I can imagine when our local healthcare heroes decided to go into the medical field, they had no idea the magnitude a global pandemic in this modern age could have on their day-to-day work. We have not seen such a global health crisis like this since the Spanish Flu Pandemic of 1918, years before our current crop of doctors and nurses were even born. Now they have been on the frontlines of this virus for months, with December and January bringing an overwhelming number of COVID patients in need of care. I want these healthcare heroes, as well as all of our essential workers, to know how much we appreciate the job they are doing. They are caring for our community during an unimaginable time. We thank them for their dedication, skill, commitment and care they show to our loved ones. We want them to know they have our unending gratitude and they truly are heroes.

"Here you can find the latest opportunities to submit a concept for public art, be featured in a show at The MAIN or have your piece displayed at one of the city's MANY GALLERIES."

Q: During the months of restrictions, many people have let their creativity flow, whether it be taking up watercolor painting, knitting, decorating for the holidays (Hello, Christmas trees!) or simply sketching. Where can these budding artists learn about exhibit opportunities in Santa Clarita?Your one-stop spot for everything "arts" in our city is Santaclaritaarts.com. If you are looking to showcase your creativity, start your search on the Call for Entries page. Here you can find the latest opportunities to submit a concept for public art, be featured in a show at The MAIN or have your piece displayed at one of the city's many galleries. You can also view the arts calendar for a listing of upcoming entertainment opportunities such as comedy shows, plein air painting classes, virtual art sessions, online cooking with Food Sessions and so much more. The safest way to enjoy the art our city has to offer is to explore the public art pieces located throughout Santa Clarita. Simply download the public art tour app and set off on your journey. All of this and more can be found at Santaclaritaarts.com.

Q: City Hall Ceremonies launched just about a year ago and we have loved seeing the photos on social media via #SCWeddingWednesday. What do engaged couples need to know to tie the knot at City Hall?We are thrilled to be able to offer this service to our residents - and it does brighten everyone's day to see a newlywed couple walking through City Hall. Couples can apply for a confidential marriage license for marriages within Los Angeles County and be married by the City Clerk at Santa Clarita City Hall. There are also many ideal spots in and around City Hall to capture beautiful photos to remember your special day. Couples can visit our website at insidescv.com/cityhallceremonies for more information and to check out our beautiful photo gallery.