Sunday Signal July 12, 2020 by Signal

JULY 12, 2020

Summer Reading and Relaxing Page 5

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AVOID INJURIES IN A NEW WORKOUT

SEEING IF HOLLYWOOD MADE THE GRADE

READY PETS FOR THE NEW ‘NORMAL’

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J U LY 12, 2020

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 3

TABLE OF CONTENTS

NEWS FEATURES

FROM THE CITY MANAGER

4 5 6 7

Understanding the keys to injury-free workouts Make your own Santa Clarita summer reading list No more high-fives, handshakes or hugs with strangers Signs of the times amid pandemic recovery

8 Summer fire season safety

HEALTH 9 9 Fructose intolerance is, unfortunately, rarely diagnosed What if someone gets sick at an event?

TECHNOLOGY 10

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GARDENING 15 15 What can and cannot be used in composting

PETS 16 16 Transitioning pets to post-quarantine routines

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1 7 Donna’s Day: Hats off to summer fun Junior Whirl Science fun fact

17 ENERGY SAVING

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PUZZLES 18 OPINION 19 SPORTS

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J U LY 12, 2020

N E W S F E AT U R E

Understanding the keys to injury-free workouts By Noelle Blumel For The Signal

ith a little time on our hands due to stay-at-home restrictions, more and more are looking into exercise regimens — as a way to pass the time, and to lose the “Quarantine 15,” what some are calling the few extra pounds that have been put on in isolation. We talked to a few local experts who shared some exercises and the importance of using good form, being mindful of injury and managing self-care to make sure you don’t get hurt or injured in the process.

Preventing injury

The most common injuries he sees are strains from incorrect form, said Gabe Perez, a physical therapist for Henry Mayo Newhall Hospital, who works out of The Plaza at Golden Valley. “I suggest that people search YouTube videos and watch themselves in the mirror to make sure they have the correct form,” Perez said. “The most common way most people injure themselves is from doing too much in too little of time.” If you do incur any minor aches and pains from getting out there for the first time in a while, he suggested the best recovery method is to ice no longer than 20 minutes.

Steady wins the workout

While treating certain unavoidable aches and pains are is important, pacing and stretching are crucial to minimizing that struggle. “Flexibility is critical so that you do not develop overuse injuries,” said Dave Larsen, head athletic trainer at The Master’s University. Larsen emphasizes flexibility in his training. He said from what he’s seen, the most common injuries are a result from muscle soreness, where you simply overload the tendon for what it’s able to accommodate. “I would say the best way for someone to prevent injury is really two different things: setting small, daily and weekly goals and not going beyond those goals so that you have a gradual workout, but the second thing is that flexibility is where it’s at for not only preventing injury, but increasing

Sports Performance Director Russell Gage, right, instructs Noelle Blumel as she engages in what are called standing straight chop exercises at Henry Mayo Fitness and Health. Making sure you have a good pace, proper stretching techniques and correct form are all important in avoiding injury. PHOTO BY DAN WATSON / THE SIGNAL

performance,” he said. “Flexibility is important for blood flow, so we know if we get more oxygen and nutrients to a tissue, it’s going to heal faster.”

Warming up

Russell Gage, sports performance director at the Henry Mayo Fitness and Health Gym, said that a common mistake he sees is the result of improperly warming up; the blood flow is not functioning enough, so the body is not ready to move and the knees start taking the majority of the impact. “Certain aspects like your knees, your low back, shoulder, neck, those things are supposed to be stable and should not have a lot of movement whereas like your ankles and your hips and kind of shoulder girdle needs to have movement,” Gage said. “So, where something that should move doesn’t move, something else is gonna move in relation to it and that’s usually what creates the pain.” Gage added that in the event one does injure themselves, the best way to heal is to rest, but also stretch or

mobilize above or below the site of pain. “(Pain) is usually caused by something pulling on it or tugging from another location, so we want to kind of take care of the above and below,” Gage said. “And that usually will take the pressure off of a sore or hurt area.”

Mindful of limits

Athletes are at risk of injury any time they step onto a field or court or into another competitive arena. Adults competing in sports may recognize that risk, but children often do not, which can make it difficult for young athletes to cope with injuries that prevent them from playing their favorite sports. Sarah Ehrsam, athletic trainer at College of the Canyons, said the biggest issue with athletes is incorrect form and lifting heavier than what they actually can lift. She recommends for athletes who are reintroducing exercise to safely start with bodyweight exercises or very low weights and limit their cardio time, basically beginning at a 50% start-

ing point and gradually increasing by 10% each week. “Not just for athletes but for all people, if you haven’t been able to work out in a while, whether you haven’t worked out at all or you haven’t been able to lift as heavy as you normally do because you’re limited in your resources at home, you have to ease back into it,” Ehrsam said. “Start at about 50% effort, don’t try to go workout for a couple of hours. If you’ve never ran before, then jogging for 10 minutes is gonna be good initially. You need to see how your body feels the next day.” Members of the NSCA, National Strength and Conditioning Association, recently released an article about re-pacing for people who have taken a hiatus from exercising. The article recommends that while everyone’s workout strategy is individualistic, these guidelines are fair for the majority of athletes as well as the healthy general population.

Stretch it out

But again, before getting started, remember that stretching exercises before and after workout sessions can increase flexibility and essentially prevent injury. The Mayo Clinic notes that stretching may improve range of motion in the joints and decrease risk of injury “Foam rolling and stretching, that is huge,” Ehrsam said. “Nobody likes to do it, everyone wants to rush through it, but that honestly will prevent a lot of injuries and a lot of overuse.” Make sure the right techniques are followed and the right gear is worn. The AAP advises parents to ensure kids follow the correct techniques when performing exercises. Poor form in the weight room can increase young athletes’ risk of injury. Coaches often supervise strength-training regimens on campus, but parents should keep watchful eyes on youngsters who work out at home or without the supervision of a coach. The American Academy of Pediatrics advises active people to plan at least one day off from training per week and at least one month off from training per year. 

J U LY 12, 2020

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 5

N E W S F E AT U R E

Make your own Santa Clarita summer reading list By Caleb Lunetta Signal Staff Writer

hile you might have had enough time in quarantine to make it all the way through your Netflix queue, the city has a program that’s encouraging a little more traditional form of seasonal entertainment: A summer reading list. “In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, many parents and children are working and schooling from home, but U.S. families are balancing screentime with real-world activities and traditional play,” reads a statement from the NPD Group, an international retail and e-commerce tracker. “From board games and activity books to coloring and chalk games, activity-based categories for entertainment and hands-on learning drove sales across the toys, books and office supplies industries in the week ending March 21, according to the NPD Group.” Kids’ nonfiction sales alone increased 66% in the United States, according to the NPD. People looking for a little bit more help or guidance on how they and their kids can approach it, are receiving advice on how to compile their summer reading lists from local librarians.

Santa Clarita Library Summer Reading Program

Once again returning to the city of Santa Clarita is the city’s summer reading program. However, officials have had to adapt the program to match the constraints placed under them by county Public Health officials. This year’s theme, according to event organizers, is “Imagine Your Story,” which “was selected because it’s a universal theme that everyone can find meaning in but everyone’s story and experience is different, event organizers said. “Santa Clarita Public Library Summer Reading” has invited individuals of any age to participate and fall back in love with reading, said Tori Wilson Rittenhouse, a communication specialist with the city. “The summer reading program invites individuals of all ages to kind of log the reading of different books online, and get involved in different reading challenges,” said Wilson Rittenhouse. “There’s also virtual programming that the library is putting on.” In order to participate in the various challenges, individuals can sign up for free at the city public library’s site. They can then complete the “5 Book Summer Challenge,” earning digital badges by completing online missions or earning digital raffle tickets. For every book read, a raffle ticket is earned for the first five books logged. After the fifth book, every three books earns a raffle ticket for kids. Adults and teens continue to earn a raffle ticket

Orien Broderick reads the book “Gossie” by Olivier Dunrea to his 2-year-old daughter, Penelope at the Valencia library in 2015. The city’s annual Summer Reading program offers a fun way for residents to stay engaged and learn a lot this summer. SIGNAL PHOTO Inset: Janene Maxon, an assistant superintendent for the Castaic Union School District, reads to children using fun voices and lots of enthusiasm. SCREENSHOT COURTESY SCVTV

for every book after the fifth book, according to officials. “This year, we are doing two main prizes; we have weekly drawings for Amazon eGiftcards and a finale drawing for Kindle Fires,” said David Janning, senior librarian for the city of Santa Clarita. “Reading more books and completing missions earns more chances to win a prize.” “This is a yearly program that (library staff) run, and they actually ran a spring reading program, as well, when COVID shutdowns and restrictions came about,” said Wilson Rittenhouse. “So they’re just looking for a way to continue engaging people of all ages and encouraging them to read and to learn.” In addition to the educational opportunities being afforded at the libraries in regards to reading, each city library site is offering different “craft kits” that kids and adults can complete from the very comfort of their own homes, but with a virtual lesson on how to complete it from the library. Each of the three city library sites is offering a different craft for people to complete, and supplies are limited, Wilson Rittenhouse added. “For example, just this past week, they were giving out to kids ‘make your own musical instruments kits,’ for the teens they were having them do DIY (do it yourself) stickers, and for the adult craft it was a photo ornament.” “Each week we have different types of grab and goes available for children, teens and adults. The

kits contain all major components to complete the program at home,” said Janning. “In the coming week we’ll be offering things like a carnivorous plant craft, puzzle mania, and design a coffee cup for kids, teens and adults respectively.” And those same programs that have been offered in years past, such as the book clubs, animal shows and game days are still being offered — just virtually and on specific dates. “We worked really hard to adapt our programming and services to fit with the circumstances we have all been faced with,” said Janning. “While most of the in-building services have been put on hold, we’ve moved everything either to remote online access or grab and go. Checking out books, story time, programs, prizes and even Lunch at the Library are all still provided. We are even providing a 24-hour pick-up through lockers at the Valencia and soon at the Canyon Country Library.” The Santa Clarita Library Summer Reading Program began June 8, and is planning to run through July 25, according to Wilson Rittenhouse, but it’s never too late to start your own reading program. “It’s easy to get involved, and this is probably the best time to try it out because it’s virtual,” said Wilson Rittenhouse. “And if you’re hesitant or dragging your feet on maybe going into the library, just take a look at their social accounts or their website.” To learn more about the various programs being offered this summer by the city library, visit SantaClaritaLibrary.com. 

6 · S U N D AYS I G N A L

J U LY 12, 2020

N E W S F E AT U R E

No more high-fives, handshakes or hugs with strangers By Tammy Murga Signal Staff Writer

nteractions at the workplace, mall or park are becoming much more frequent with the economy reopening after months of quarantining, but these encounters don’t appear as they used to pre-COVID-19.

People are donning face masks, switching from handshakes to elbow bumps and figuring out how to respectfully cancel that RSVP as large gatherings of events remain prohibited across Los Angeles County. The clink of glasses at a wedding toast or a kiss on the cheek when saying hello to your relatives and friends are polite gestures of the past — at least for now, as safety measures to physically distance from others outside of one’s household unit continues in place. With ongoing COVID-19 developments, new etiquette rules are upon us, said Dr. Krystyna Pilecki, a primary care doctor at Henry Mayo Newhall Hospital. “These gestures are on a long pause, and that doesn’t mean they’re on pause forever; but I think they might be for a good amount of time,” she said. “During the flu season, maybe it’s not a bad idea to put some of those things on pause, too, moving forward.” Here are some changes in everyday interactions and etiquette to consider as today’s social norms adjust to the pandemic:

Handshakes and greetings

Shoppers practice social distancing in the Westfield Valencia Town Center. With the laws changing constantly, it’s important to know how people feel about the new etiquette of being around other people in public. PHOTO BY DAN WATSON / THE SIGNAL

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends staying 6 feet apart, or about two arms’ lengths from other people to help prevent the spread of COVID-19. For most, that means handshakes are no longer the appropriate greeting. Some have opted for the elbow bump, which is far less direct, but still breaking the 6-feet rule. Pilecki said there are several other options to greet someone today that is both safe and professional. “When we look at how it spreads, the virus spreads through the air, and it can stay in the air for three hours after somebody exhales viral particles and it can spread through surfaces like hands,” she said. “So, keeping that distance is important and an elbow bump is better than a handshake but not quite. A bow is great, nodding and you can tell when someone’s smiling by their eyes. Let your voice be the way that you communicate your greetings with others.” CDC official Dr. Ruben Spurkle has even made light of the situation, and suggested replacing handshakes with jazz hands. “We urge everyone to stop shaking hands immediately,” he said in a previous statement. “Instead, we suggest greeting people in a manner both more sanitary and, frankly, more fabulous: jazz hands. If we have any hope of saving the world from this crippling disease, by God, it is with sassy, interpretive movement.”

Invitations and RSVPs

Under safer-at-home orders these past months, many events you have probably RSVP’d for, such as weddings, birthdays or other social gatherings, have been canceled. However, for the events that have not yet been postponed or otherwise rescheduled — at least for events in the next month or so — the rules around kindly declining might also look a little different. “Longstanding etiquette and basic social graces dictate if you responded that you would attend, you must,” Sharon Schweitzer, international etiquette and culture expert, said on her website. “However, in light of coronavirus, changing your RSVP to decline and skipping the event is appropriate, if it’s done immediately.” She recommends sending a note to the event’s host explaining you regret missing, but believe that that would be the safest option for everyone. “The most important thing is to be respectful,” said Ivan Volschenk, managing partner at Santa Clarita-based Evolve Business Strategies, regarding when you’re the host or just expecting someone over who had to cancel. “You never know if that person might have somebody sick at home, and we just don’t know all the reasons behind that. We can’t assume.”

Asking for space

Before the pandemic, asking someone to step back or to mention personal space might feel too direct for some. “It’s expected and if you don’t do it, be prepared for someone else to do so,” Schweitzer suggests. Some ways to ask for space in a polite way is to say, “excuse me” and express how serious you and your household take social distancing for the time being.

Face masks in public

Face masks in public have become a staple in the coronavirus era, especially in California, where masks are mandatory when around others outside of one’s family unit. If you come across someone not wearing one while out in public, Pilecki recommends not to make assumptions as the person might have health conditions that require them not to wear one. If someone approaches you without one and you feel uncomfortable, “You could possibly say something like, ‘My mother is very sick. Do you mind wearing your mask around me, because I don’t want to get her sick,’” said Pilecki. As a reminder, face masks do not need to be worn outside if you will not encounter people outside of your household, such as running or hiking at a nearby trail. Consider choosing a time when fewer people are out, but always carry your mask just in case. 

J U LY 12, 2020

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 7

N E W S F E AT U R E

Signs of the times amid pandemic recovery By Tammy Murga Signal Staff Writer

he local economy has reopened in stages and lately, more people have returned to activities such as shopping at the mall or getting a haircut, activities that were prohibited just weeks ago under stricter safer-athome restrictions. But even as a sense of normalcy returns for most, these everyday errands look a little different than they did pre-pandemic. In fact, you may have stopped noticing or might just be accepting the fact that these changes are now part of life — at least for now. Just trace back some of the places you recently visited and try to recall the details. From face masks to sanitation stations at every business, these are some of the practices becoming a part of the new norm:

Face masks

In California, residents are required to wear face masks while in public or high-risk areas in an effort to reduce the spread of COVID-19 amid concerns of a recent surge, Gov. Gavin Newsom ordered in mid-June. Even before the statewide directive, however, the vast majority of people donned face masks as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommended at the start of the pandemic to “keep the wearer from spreading the virus to others.” With a directive to wear them nearly anytime we are outside or around others outside our household, face masks have even become a fashion statement or norm. Face coverings in a fashionable way as an incentive to educate people on the importance of wearing masks have appeared in advertisements and social media posts by public health departments, including California’s own. “You know what looks great with any summer look? A face covering that will help #Slowthe Spread of #COVID-19,” read a June 24 tweet by the Office of Gov. Newsom. “Face coverings complete any look: The Face-Covering Crafter, the Canadian Mask-edo, the Cover-Up Cowboy.” Many residents in the Santa Clarita have also taken on the initiative to create and sell masks that mask any style, including anything from sports logos to cartoon characters or phrases.

Physical partitions and visual cues

As noted on a local to the federal level, health experts have reiterated the importance of keeping at least 6 feet of distance from others to reduce the spread of the virus as COVID-19 can “spread mainly from person to person through respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs, sneezes, talks or raises their voice,” according to the CDC. To ensure physical distancing between employ-

Melissa and Kyle Hand sanitize their hands as they shop the Westfield Valencia Town Center in June. When you go out shopping next time, you’ll probably notice more and more masks, as well as more than a few sanitation stations, which are part of the new requirements for business. PHOTO BY DAN WATSON / THE SIGNAL

ees and customers, the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health has released protocols for businesses to establish upon reopening. Those regulations include everything from guidelines to the use of physical partitions or visual cues, such as floor markings, colored tape and signs to indicate where workers and customers should stand to the installment of Plexiglas barriers to minimize exposure between cashiers and customers or bus drivers and passengers. Whether at the Westfield Valencia Town Center or at the local grocery store, you’ll find signs to remind the public of physical distancing and with the 6-foot distance rule in place for an ongoing amount of time, these visual cues are here to stay. This new norm comes as businesses swarm to adjust to safety measures. Several local restaurants, for example, are readjusting their locations to bring customers a seamless transition to an environment that looks different from before the pandemic, according to Stacie House, director of business development at 24/7 Events. “(W)e have also worked with retailers on guest line queuing, customer pick up models, as well as operational needs for physical distancing team members,” she said referring to some of the most requested services. “Guest line queuing can be done several different ways from identifiable floor decals spaced 6 feet apart, to utilizing pedestrian fencing to clearly delineate lines for store access or point of sale areas.”

Sanitizing stations

Much like the signs and physical barriers, sani-

tizing stations and items are readily available when out in public. SCV residents will find hand sanitizer stations anywhere before entering an establishment, be that the mall entrance, City Hall or dealerships at AutoNation.

Contactless payments

The effort to reduce the spread of the virus doesn’t end at wearing face masks and keeping a physical distance from others, it also comes in limiting the number of inanimate objects one touches when out in public, including at the checkout line. Contactless payments have already been in use for quite some time, but they could become more ubiquitous, said Greg Mahnken, a credit industry analyst with Credit Card Insider. “If you look in your wallet, you might already have a contactless debit or credit card. The contactless symbol looks like a little wireless/wifi symbol, and if your card has it, you should be all set up to make contactless payments,” he said. “An earlier estimate predicted that 55% of new cards in the U.S. would be contactless by the end of 2020, but experts are now predicting that due to COVID-19, global demand for contactless will increase by about 6% to 8% over original estimates.” “Any time you can avoid a high-touch surface such as the card reader, that’s a win right now,” he added. “Of course, you’ll still want to follow health experts’ recommendations as far as touching other surfaces and washing or sanitizing your hands after you leave a store.” 

8 · S U N D AYS I G N A L

J U LY 12, 2020

FROM THE CITY MANAGER

IT’S TIME TO

Summer fire season safety By City Manager Ken Striplin

R Santa Clarita Safer Business Commitment SHOP LOCAL EAT LOCAL

STAY SAFE

Add your business to the list of Santa Clarita Safer Businesses at

VisitSantaClarita.com/SaferBusinessCommitment

ising temperatures and increasing winds in Southern California can create the perfect conditions for a fire to spark in our community, and we’ve had several significant brush fires in the last couple of weeks. By being aware and informed of fire season safety tips, we can support the heroes in the Los Angeles County Fire Department and help them better perform their job responsibilities. Just last year, parts of our community were devastated by the Tick Fire. Beginning at Tick Canyon Road and Summit Knoll Road in Canyon Country, the Tick Fire burned through 4,615 acres, damaging 27 structures and destroying 22 structures in the process. We saw 40,000 of our residents evacuated from their homes, the largest in City history, with concerns about what they would be returning to once the fire was out. I am so grateful to the efforts of the Los Angeles County Fire Department for working tirelessly to protect our community and the lives of our residents. Their organization and quick response prevented further devastation from occurring in Santa Clarita. Each of us must do our part to keep Santa Clarita safe and to avoid another devastating fire, such as last November’s Tick Fire. How can you help keep our community safe from fires? Start by accounting for flammable items in your home and by regularly maintaining your smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors. Fast-moving and dangerous brush fires can also be a risk to your home and our community if your yard and landscaping are not properly maintained. Outside of your home, ensure flammable vegetation and other combustible growth are not within 30 feet of your structure. It is also encouraged to landscape with plants that are drought tolerant and fire-resistant as a safety precaution.

Regular maintenance and removal of dead leaves and branches are important as well for your safety and the safety of your neighbors. Once items in and outside your home have been assessed, make sure you’re Ready! Set! Go! Personal Wildfire Action Plan is prepared. This plan should be developed with you and any additional members of your household in case of a fire in our community. The action plan should outline important phone numbers and emergency contacts, list essential items to be included in your emergency supply kit, designate an emergency meeting location and outline additional supplies that may be needed for pets or larger animals. Ready! Set! Go! action plan templates and checklists may be downloaded from fire.LACounty.gov/ RSG. Prevention and preparedness go hand and hand, so I ask that you please practice the fire safety tips outlined to be an active participant in protecting our community. We are fortunate to live in Southern California, where the weather is warm, and the sun shines for the majority of the year. With that also comes a year-round responsibility to support our firefighters and community by taking fire prevention seriously. We have shown how strong our community is time and time again, so let’s continue to do so by doing our part to prevent fires in Santa Clarita! Ken Striplin can be reached at kstriplin@santa-clarita.com. The views expressed in his column are those of the City and do not necessarily reflect those of The Signal. 

J U LY 12, 2020

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 9

H E A LT H

To your good health —

Fructose intolerance is, unfortunately, rarely diagnosed By Keith Roach, M.D. Signal Contributing Writer

Dear Dr. Roach What can you tell me about fructose intolerance and/ or malabsorption? Is there a genetic predisposition to this? Can it develop later in life? What are the symptoms, and how is it diagnosed? What type of doctor can best make a diagnosis? My father was diagnosed with some sort of fructose problem years ago. I have no other information about his condition as he has passed away. I have developed some intestinal issues over the past year and have noticed I frequently experience stomach cramps after eating grapes and green apples, specifically. I am a vegetarian, and my diet consists of lots of fruits and vegetables. I’m wondering if I may have an issue with fructose. I hope not! What are your thoughts? — D.K. Answer: Fructose intolerance is common, but it is seldom diagnosed.

One cause, hereditary fructose intolerance, is a genetic disorder that can cause serious symptoms in infants and children, but it is usually mild in adults. The symptoms of fructose intolerance are very similar to another sugar intolerance — lactose, the sugar in milk. Many people cannot tolerate lactose and if they eat too much of it will have cramping and diarrhea. Unlike lactose intolerance, which has a simple diagnostic breath test, there is no commonly available test for fructose intolerance. Fructose is a simple sugar, called a monosaccharide, and is found in many fruits, especially apples, pears, cherries and dates. Fructose is also found in honey and is part of the disaccharide sucrose (table sugar), where it is combined with glucose. What is fascinating yet poorly understood is that when fructose is consumed with glucose, it is absorbed better by people with fruc-

What if someone gets sick at an event?

s economies reopen, scaled-down events are returning to professional and social calendars. Organizers may be concerned about how to respond should a staff member or attendee develop symptoms of COVID-19 while at an event. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention urges organizers to follow certain protocols in such instances. First and foremost, organizers should immediately separate staff or attendees who become sick until they can go home. If a sick person is too ill to get themself home, contact local authorities. They may be able to arrange for the sick person to be transported home via ambulance. People who are, or may be, exhibiting symptoms of COVID-19 should avoid public transportation, including buses, trains, rideshares, and taxis. Once the sick person has been separated, provide the person with

a clean, disposable facemask. If none is available, the CDC advises providing them with a tissue or some other way to cover their coughs and sneezes. Once the person has been separated and gone home, organizers should contact their local public health officials to inform them about the possibility of a person with COVID-19 at their event. The CDC notes that such officials can then help organizers learn how to consult their staff and attendees about possible exposure to the virus. Organizers also may want to contact their local public health officials in advance of their events to determine how they should proceed with the event should someone exhibit symptoms of COVID-19 while in attendance. Protocols may vary depending on the type and size of the event, and public health officials can help determine the appropriate response. (MC) 

tose intolerance. Therefore, the goal in someone with inability to absorb fructose is to reduce or avoid fructose by itself. That means reducing foods and beverages sweetened with high-fructose corn syrup, which is present in many products; eating high-fructose fruits only with meals; and reducing honey intake. Sorbitol, a sugar alcohol used as a sweetener in “diet” or “sugarless” foods, tends to worsen fructose intolerance and should be avoided. A vegetarian diet is very healthy for most people, and you shouldn’t have to give up your fruits. Just following some simple rules should reduce or eliminate your symptoms. Dear Dr. Roach You have mentioned diseases of the blood marrow before, but what does the bone marrow actually do? — T.S.B. Answer The main job of the bone marrow is to produce the different

blood cells: red blood cells to carry oxygen, white blood cells to fight infection and cancers, and platelets to stop bleeding. Diseases of the bone marrow can cause problems by making something abnormal (such as leukemia cells), but also by failing at its job and not making what it is supposed to. Low red cell counts lead to anemia; low white cell counts increase risk of infection; and low platelet counts contribute to abnormal bleeding. Bone marrow diseases sometimes can be treated directly, but often treatment involves replacing blood products, and possibly using growth factors to make the bone marrow work better.  Dr. Roach regrets that he is unable to answer individual questions, but will incorporate them in the column whenever possible. Readers may email questions to ToYourGoodHealth@med. cornell.edu. © 2020 North America Synd., Inc. All Rights Reserved

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J U LY 12, 2020

TECHNOLOGY

Make sure hackers can’t access your home network By Kim Komando Signal Contributing Writer

ybercrimes are on the rise with hackers and scammers chomping at the bit for a shot at your system. There’s one tool that should be on all computers. IBM Security, Packet Clearing House and The Global Cyber Alliance have a free service to protect you from accessing sketchy websites that spread malware, steal personal information and engage in fraudulent activity. Go here to check out Kim’s picks, https://bit.ly/KimsPicks. But hackers may have already compromised your network. 1. Keep everything up to date Security threats are continually evolving, which is why you need to keep your browser updated. Updates help protect you from the latest spreading viruses and attacks.

Even more important, update your operating system regularly. Windows releases frequent (though sometimes buggy) updates and missing any can mean severe consequences for your security. The same goes for Macs. Most Windows PCs download and install updates automatically by default. If you haven’t changed your automatic update settings, you might not need to change a thing. If you’ve turned automatic updates off, you can update manually. Apple’s macOS receives its updates through the Mac App Store. Open the App Store app, click Updates. 2. Test your firewall Even if cybercriminals can see your network, a firewall helps to prevent them from getting inside and doing any damage. Make sure your firewall is on. For Windows, open Settings > Update & Security. Choose Windows Security from the left-hand menu. Choose Firewall & Network Protec-

tion to open the firewall menu. Your system will tell you whether your firewall is on or not. If it’s off, you can toggle it on or reset the settings to default by clicking on Restore firewalls to default. For Mac, open System Preferences, then click Security and Privacy. Click the Lock Icon to make changes and enter your admin username and password. Then select Turn on Firewall. One more important step. Visit here to make sure your firewall is working, https://bit.ly/KimsFirewallTest. 3. Remove extra browser add-ons and hosts files in Windows Most browser extensions are safeto-use tools that enhance your internet experience, but some are malicious. Regularly comb through your list of extensions and remove any you don’t recognize or don’t use anymore. In Chrome: Visit the Chrome Web Store menu to see a list of all your

currently installed extensions. Remove them by clicking Remove from Chrome. Click the Library tab and delete the extension from there, as well. In Firefox: Click on the three-line menu button and click Add-ons, followed by Extensions. Scroll through the list of extensions and click the three-dot icon next to the extensions you want to remove. Select Remove to delete them from your browser. In Safari: Choose Safari > Preferences, then click Extensions. To turn off an extension, deselect its checkbox. To uninstall an extension, select the extension and click the Uninstall button. For information on Kim Komando on today’s digital lifestyle, from smartphones and tablets to online privacy and data hacks, visit her at Komando.com. 

J U LY 12, 2020

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 1 1

E N T E R TA I N M E N T

The annual halftime report card: Home-school edition

“The Last Dance” around the NBA Finals in June, but they wisely moved it up to fill the void of live sports content — and the 10-part series about Michael Jordan and the 1990s Bulls was appointment viewing on five consecutive Sunday nights, becoming the most-watched original content show in ESPN history. The younger generation and casual sports fans around the country learned what Chicagoans have long known: Michael Jordan is not only the GOAT, he’s the most competitive person on the planet.

By Richard Roeper Signal Contributing Writer

t the outset of 2020, if you had told me the No. 1 movie at the box office in late June would be “Jurassic Park,” I would have told you: “Nice DeLorean. Does it travel back exclusively to 1993, or can you visit other years?” We’ve just experienced the first spring in more than a century with no major films playing in movie theaters. (Even when a handful of theaters in the Chicago area and around the country reopened in June, they were showing early 2020 releases such as “The Invisible Man” and “Bloodshot,” and previous-generation staples such as “Batman Begins” and the Indiana Jones movies.) As of this writing, we’re scheduled to see big-ticket films in actual movie theaters later this summer, from the Russell Crowe thriller “Unhinged” (July 31) to Christopher Nolan’s oft-delayed “Tenet” (Aug. 12) to Disney’s live-action surefire blockbuster “Mulan” (Aug. 21). We’ll see. (So to speak.) Not that there’s been a dearth of original material these past 3 1/2 months. Little did I know when I exited a Navy Pier IMAX screening of “Bloodshot” in mid-March I wouldn’t be setting foot in a movie theater or screening room for more than 100 days. Since then, I’ve quarantine-viewed movies originally scheduled for theatrical release (“Da 5 Bloods,” “The King of Staten Island”) as well as indie gems, series finales of beloved TV shows, new seasons of established streaming hits, stand-up specials, documentaries and offerings on rookie streaming services such as Quibi. Here’s my annual Halftime Report Card: Home School Edition, spotlighting the best, the worst and the ridiculous in movies and TV and on social media over the first six months of 2020.

Oscars go home

Kudos to the traditionally obstinate Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences for moving the ceremony to April 25, 2021; extending the eligibility period to include any films scheduled for theatrical release between Jan. 1, 2020 and Feb. 28, 2021; and granting eligibility to films such as “Da 5 Bloods” and “Bad Education,” which would have been released in theaters had theaters been open.

Delroy’s moment

After some 30 years of stellar stage work and memorable character performances in films such as “Get Shorty,” the great Delroy Lindo has the showcase role of his movie career as the lead in “Da 5 Bloods” and merits serious consideration for best actor.

Hardly a King

The Netflix docuseries “Tiger King” was undeniably entertaining, and the Twitterverse exploded with casting suggestions for the inevitable dramat-

Up next: axe-throwing! ic adaptation. But by the time the series concluded, we realized we’d been watching awful people doing awful things to each other — and to beautiful exotic creatures who deserve better than to spend their lives in cages, ogled by humans. It takes a special kind of terrible person to separate a newborn tiger cub from its mother just so people can have an Insta video opp.

The Chicago way

Chicago and the suburbs were the setting and/or location for numerous TV shows and films, from Season 3 of “The Chi” to the brilliant small movies “Saint Frances” and “Working Man,” to an episode of the HBO series “Run” to the mediocre “My Spy,” which was set primarily in Chicago but filmed in Toronto, and featured the least believable version of Wicker Park ever put on film.

Bowing out on top

The series finales of “Schitt’s Creek,” “The Good Place” and “Modern Family” were lovely, pitch-perfect farewells to three of the best shows in recent years. We even got a Zoom-y and quite wonderful reunion of “Parks & Recreation.”

Best actresses

Elisabeth Moss (“The Invisible Man,” “Shirley”), Julia Garner (“The Assistant,” “Ozark”), Issa Rae (“The Photograph,” “Insecure,” “The Lovebirds”), Lauren Lapkus (“The Wrong Missy”), Tracee Ellis Ross (“The High Note”).

Best actors

Ben Affleck (“The Way Back”), Peter Gerety (“Working Man”), Pete Davidson (“Big Time Adolescence,” “The King of Staten Island”), Delroy Lindo (“Da 5 Bloods”), Hugh Jackman (“Bad Education”).

Re-BOOOOO

It’s been a terrible year for remakes and reboots, from “Dolittle” to “Fantasy Island” to “Downhill” to “Perry Mason” to “Scoob” to an execrable musical take on “Valley Girl,” with the bland cast murdering pop classics such as “Melt With You” and “Under Pressure.”

Dancing with the stars

ESPN originally planned to dole out episodes of

ESPN and other sports channels have resorted to rebroadcasts of long-ago games (spoiler alert: The Pirates beat the Orioles in the 1971 World Series) and prime-time showcases for niche sports including axe-throwing, darts and cornhole, which is usually best showcased in the parking lot at Guaranteed Rate Field.

Uncommon Jay

After three seasons, the reality series “Very Cavallari” is no more. After 10 years, the Kristin Cavallari/Jay Cutler marriage looks to be no more. (We make no jokes about that, as three children are involved.) But just when we thought the former Bears QB would fade into the Tennessee woods, Cutler took possession of his Instagram account (formerly run by Kristin) and greatly amused us with his video accounts of trying to identify and capture the unknown predator killing his chickens. At one point, Cutler wondered if his cat, Thelma, was a “serial chicken killer,” but he posted a written apology to Thelma, saying, “You are not the suspect we are looking for. Take it as a compliment for your savage ways of life. Carry on, Cat.” And to think we Bears fans once questioned Jay’s dedication and heart.

How to become a breakout star

Comedian Sarah Cooper became a star thanks to Trump-lampooning videos with titles such as “How to Second Term” and “How to Lobster.” Much more than just lip-syncing, these videos were pitch-perfect mini-movies with Cooper playing Trump and various characters such as Sean Hannity and White House reporters. When “Saturday Night Live” returns, I’d love to see a “Short Film by Sarah Cooper” every week.

Making history in 27 minutes, 20 seconds The brilliant and prolific Dave Chappelle dropped an unexpected special on YouTube, but “8:46” (a reference to the amount of time a Minneapolis police officer kept his knee on George Floyd’s neck) was a far cry from Chappelle’s usual cool and hilarious stand-up work. This was a raw, angry and passionate call for change, delivered straight from Chappelle’s heart and life experience. 

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J U LY 12, 2020

FOOD

The delicious history of cheesecake

ich, creamy and decadent, cheesecake is enjoyed across the globe. There are many famous cheesecake bakeries in North America, and those who can’t resist digging their forks into this beloved dessert may assume that cheesecake traces its origins there. In fact, cheesecake traces its origins to the ancient Greeks. The first “cheesecake” is believed to have been created from a ricotta-type cheese base on the Greek island of Samos. Excavated cheese molds were found there that dated to around 2,000 B.C. Cheesecake was considered a good source of energy and there is evidence that even Olympic athletes were fed cheesecake during the first games. After the Roman conquest of Greece, cheesecake was adopted by the Romans. Their name for this type of cake was “placenta” and it was baked on a pastry base or sometimes inside of a pastry case, advises What’s Cooking America. Cheesecakes also were called “libum” by the Romans, and were used as an offering at the gods’ temples. Cheesecakes also were introduced to other areas of Europe thanks to conquering Roman armies. By 1,000 A.D., cheesecake could be found throughout northwestern Europe, England and Scandinavia. Through the years, cheesecake’s popularity spread elsewhere. However, New Yorkers say that cheesecake was not really cheesecake until it got an Empire State makeover in the 1900s. Many New York restaurants have their own versions of cheesecake, with Turf Restaurant laying claim to the first cream cheese-based cheesecake recipe in 1929.

Cheesecake fans have ancient Greeks to thank for this beloved dessert.

New York dairy man William Lawrence accidentally invented cream cheese in 1872 while trying to recreate a soft, French cheese known as Neufchâtel. Little did Lawrence know that this mistake would inadvertently revolutionize cheesecake recipes. Many cheesecake afficionados have a favorite recipe. However, this classic and iconic New York cheesecake, courtesy of Philadelphia Cream Cheese brand, is an ideal one to make your own.

New York Cheesecake

1 1/4 cups graham crumbs 1/4 cup butter, melted 5 packages (250g each) Philadelphia Brick Cream Cheese, softened 1 cup sugar 3 tablespoons flour 1 tablespoon vanilla 1 cup sour cream 4 eggs 1 can (19 fl. oz) cherry pie filling

Preheat oven to 325 F if using a silver 9-inch springform pan (or to 300 F if using a dark nonstick 9-inch springform pan). Mix crumbs and butter; press firmly onto bottom of pan. Bake 10 minutes. Beat cream cheese, sugar, flour, and vanilla in large bowl with electric mixer on medium speed until well blended. Add sour cream; mix well. Add eggs, one at a time, mixing on low speed after each addition just until blended. Pour over crust. Bake for 1 hour and10 minutes, or until center is almost set. Run a knife or metal spatula around the rim of the pan to loosen cake; cool before removing the rim of the pan. Refrigerate for 4 hours or overnight. Top with pie filling before serving. Store leftover cheesecake in the refrigerator. (MC) 

A cold concoction perfect for summer nights

ummer is synonymous with many things. Warm weather and al fresco dining are part and parcel of many people’s summertime routines. Another beloved routine is enjoying a cold beverage on a warm summer evening. A cold beverage can be just what’s needed to take such relaxing nights one step further. The following recipe for “Summer Cantaloupe” from Andrew Schloss’ “Homemade Liqueurs and Infused Spirits” (Storey Publishing) is easily whipped up and can go a long way toward making summer evenings especially sweet.

Summer Cantaloupe

Makes about 1 quart 1 fifth (3 1/4 cups) 80-100 proof vodka 4 cups cantaloupe chunks 1 cup Simple Syrup (see below) Finely grated zest of 2 lemons Muddle the vodka, cantaloupe and lemon zest with a wooden spoon in a half-gallon jar. Stir to moisten everything. Seal the jar and put it in a cool, dark cabinet until the liquid smells and tastes strongly of melon, four to seven days. Strain the mixture with a mesh strainer into a clean quart jar. Do not push on the solids to extract

more liquid.

Stir in the Simple Syrup. Seal and store in a cool, dark cabinet. Use within one year.

Simple Syrup Makes 3 cups 2 1/4 cups water 2 1/4 cups granulated cane sugar Mix the water and sugar in a small saucepan until the sugar is all moistened. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Stir to make sure the sugar is completely dissolved, then remove from the heat and let cool. Refrigerate for up to three months. (MC) 

J U LY 12, 2020

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 1 3

SENIORLIVING

Leaving a lasting legacy Is it selective hearing or is it that you can’t hear beyond the mask?

t is customary for people to take inventory of their lives as they grow older, wondering about their impact on the world and the people closest to them. A legacy is often the story of one’s life and the things he or she did through the years. The good thing about a legacy is it is never too early to begin planning. The following are some guidelines that can help people establish lasting legacies.

Keep track of your story

Grab a journal and start jotting down events that occur in your life. Mention particular achievements or notable things that occur from day to day. Pepper these accounts with stories of your family and childhood to start establishing an autobiography of sorts.

Consider your daily actions

Even though people may imagine it is the grand gestures that are remembered most, quite often it’s the simplest acts that make the most impact. Think about the way you treat others each and every day. Smile at people, compliment others and offer positive advice when it is sought.

Research investments that are profitable

If the goal is to make money to leave for future generations, investigate your options. These include assets that can retain their value. According to NewRetirement.com

and Stepping Stone Financial, Inc., vacation homes mean a lot to families and they also can be a source of future revenue should they be rented or sold. Speaking with a financial advisor also can be a sound way to invest the right way to accumulate assets that can be passed down as a legacy.

Check beneficiaries

Name children or other relatives as beneficiaries on Individual Retirement Accounts. With Roth IRAs, distributions are tax-free as long as the person who set up the IRA met the five-year holding period for contributions and conversions. Beneficiaries can have five years to take out money from the account; otherwise, they can convert the plan to an Inherited IRA, which stretches out distributions over their life expectancy, according to Investopedia, an online financial resource.

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Write a legacy letter

A legacy letter is a way to speak directly to loved ones and say all those things that you had wished you told them earlier but maybe didn’t find the words or perhaps never had the time, according to Forbes. The letter ensures others know just how much joy they brought to your life and the pride you had in knowing them. Leaving a legacy is something people start to think about as they grow older, but it’s easy to start planning a legacy regardless of your age. (MC) 

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J U LY 12, 2020

HOME

Protecting those kitchen countertop investments

itchen remodels are a popular home improvement project that help homeowners recoup large percentages of their initial investments at resale. A kitchen remodel can invigorate a home and make the most popular room in the house more functional. According to HomeAdvisor, a home-improvement informational guide, homeowners spend an average of $22,000 on kitchen remodels. However, lavish projects can cost more than $50,000. Protecting such investments is important and requires that homeowners understand how to properly maintain kitchen features so they have the longest life possible. This includes the new countertops that make the kitchen look complete. Countertops come in various materials, not all of which should be treated the same way. Quartz, granite, marble, laminate and tile countertops require different types of maintenance. Quartz Engineered quartz countertops are popular. Quartz countertops are nearly maintenance-free and resistant to stains, scratches and even heat. Quartz will not need to be sealed like natural stone and can be cleaned using just a damp cloth with a mild, nonabrasive soap. Granite Polished or honed granite countertops offer a high-end look that adds instant value to a kitchen. Natural variations in granite give each kitchen a custom look. To keep granite countertops clean,

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avoid abrasive cleansers that can scratch, and opt for warm, soapy water instead. Stains are possible, but can be remedied with a baking soda paste left to sit for a couple of hours, advises Angie’s List. Wipe up oils, acids and soda promptly to avoid stains, and follow advised sealing routines. Marble Marble is a natural stone that is porous and will need to be resealed periodically. Because marble has high levels of the mineral calcite, it can be reactive when acids come in contact with it, and etch marks may appear. Promptly wipe away tomato juice, lemon juice, perfume, or toothpaste.

Marble is softer than granite and will wear at a faster rate. Avoid scratching and exercise caution when using knives or sharp objects around marble. Laminate One of the more budget-friendly materials, laminate countertops can be fabricated to mimic the look of natural stone, wood or even quartz. Laminate is less resistant to damage than other materials and will need a gentle touch. Formica says to never use abrasive cleansers, scouring pads or steel wool when cleaning laminate countertops. For tough stains, an all-purpose

cleaner should suffice when applied with a nylon-bristled brush. Test any cleanser in a discreet area first. Tile Cleaning tile countertops requires getting into crevices along the grout lines. A toothbrush and a mildew-fighting cleaner or bleach diluted with water is advised. Also, unglazed tiles need to be sealed yearly. Some soap may leave residue, which can be removed with a solution of vinegar and water. Check with the manufacturer or installer of the countertops to learn more about the ways to clean and maintain new counters. (MC) 

Signs of overloaded circuits in your home

he National Fire Protection Association says that home fires caused by electrical failures or malfunction result in more than 400 deaths per year and cause $1.4 billion in property damage annually. Electrical fires can often be prevented, especially if homeowners learn to identify the signs of overloaded circuits. The Electrical Safety Foundation International notes that the following are some common signs of overloaded circuits. • Burning odor coming from recep-

tacles or wall switches • Flickering, blinking or dimming lights • Frequently tripped circuit breakers or blown fuses • Cracking, sizzling or buzzing from receptacles • Mild shock or tingle from appliances, receptacles or switches The Consumer Product Safety Commission estimates that 50% of electrical fires can be prevented by arc fault circuit interrupters, or AFCIs. AFCIs are products that are designed to detect a wide range of arc-

ing electrical faults in an attempt to reduce instances in which electrical systems are ignition sources of fire. AFCIs monitor circuits for normal or dangerous arcing conditions, serving as something of a safety net that can reduce the risk of home fires. Recognizing the signs of overloaded circuits and using AFCIs can help homeowners significantly reduce the risk of home fires in their homes. More information about electrical fires and how to prevent them is available at www.esfi.org and www. afcisafety.org. (MC) 

J U LY 12, 2020

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 1 5

GARDENING

What can and cannot be used for composting

vid gardeners know that compost can add vital nutrients to soil used in gardens, container plants and lawns. The fact that compost is so versatile and nutrient-dense may not even be its most admirable quality. Made from items used in and around the house, compost costs just about nothing to produce. The raw materials that make up compost come from organic waste. These can be disposables from the garden and kitchen, as well as other areas around the house. According to the United States Environmental Protection Agency, yard trimmings and food scraps add up to 20-30% of the municipal solid waste. Turning waste into compost not only helps the landscape, but also the planet. Compost is relatively easy to make, and there are scores of materials that can be put into compost. But it is just as essential to know which ingredients cannot be used in compost.

Okay for compost

Most organic materials, or items that were once living, can be used in compost. Plant-based items used in cooking, such as potato peelings, carrot skins, banana peels, cocoa hulls, coffee grounds and filters, corn cobs, apple cores, egg shells, fruit peels, kelp and nut shells, can be added to compost. Other items from around the house, such as unused kitty litter, hair, shredded newspapers and cardboard, leaves, flowers, paper, pine needles, ashes and sawdust, can be successfully added to compost. Stick to items that are not treated heavily with chemicals.

Should not be used in compost Inorganic and non-biodegradable materials cannot go into compost. These are items like plastic, glass, aluminum foil and metal. Pressuretreated lumber, although a natural material, is treated with preservatives and often pesticides that can be

harmful if they leech into the garden. The small-gardening resource Balcony Garden Web indicates coated or glossy printed papers, such as those from catalogs, magazines, wrapping paper, marketing materials and business cards, should not be added to compost piles because of the chemicals and inks used in these pages. Planet Natural Research Center says to avoid pet droppings from dogs and cats. Animal products like bones, butter, milk, fish skins and meat, may decompose and start to smell foul. Maggots, parasites, pathogens and other microorganisms can form in the compost. These materials also may attract flies and scavenger animals. Plus, they decompose very slowly. Any personal hygiene products should be avoided because they are tainted by human fluids and that can pose a health risk. While weeds are not harmful in compost piles, there is the risk that

seeds can germinate and then infiltrate garden beds when the compost is used. The same can be said for tomato plants and some other hardy fruits and vegetables. Compost is a winner in the garden and around the landscape. Learning which ingredients can and can’t be added to compost piles is useful for any gardener. (MC) 

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J U LY 12, 2020

PETS

Transitioning pets to post-quarantine routines

s states ease COVID-19 restrictions and people get out of the house to return to work, pets around the country may see their daily routines of hanging out with everyone come to an end. Some dogs and cats handle routine changes easily. For others, a routine change at home can cause behavior issues, nervousness or separation anxiety. A Suzy survey of 5,000 U.S. pet owners found nearly 70% of respondents are concerned their pets will have new or additional anxiety when they return to work. It’s important to prepare pets for changes in routine, especially those that are new to a home, for their well-being and harmony of the whole family.

Consider these transition tips.

Make a plan The key to any plan is making sure everyone knows what to do. This goes for veteran pet owners and the owners of more than 221,000 new pets adopted or fostered since March, according to the 24Pet ShelterWatch Report. Pet owners should agree on the plan for their pets and details should be shared with children who help with care. “Pet owners should make a plan with minimal and realistic changes to help their dogs or cats

adapt to new routines,” said veterinarian Elizabeth DeLomba, MBA, senior veterinary services consultant at VetriScience Laboratories. “Start by offering your pets belongings that make them feel safe and comfortable and add small things that promote mental and physical stimulation.” Practice the new routine Ease your pet into being alone by spending short periods of time away from him or her, and work your way up to hours of separation. Use practice time to get your dog or cat used to what happens before you leave for work, comfortable with a crate or other safe space and acquainted with a new toy, treat or someone who will check on him or her during the day. Before you leave, take your pet for a walk or play at home to get energy out prior to your departure. When it is time to leave, don’t make a big deal out of leaving. Say goodbye long before you leave then leave calmly. Try a calming supplement The survey revealed that 65% of respondents plan to use a nutritional supplement to help their dog or cat cope with anxiety. Over the counter calming supplements like VetriScience Composure chews can help pets relax during stressful times

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without changing their personality or energy level. Calming supplements come in bite-size chews or a liquid dosage for all breeds and sizes. “Fear and anxiety disorders affect 23 million dogs in the U.S. alone,” DeLomba said. “Supplements may offer a convenient approach for managing separation anxiety and other behavioral issues. The ingredients in supplements work together to make a positive impact on behavior and anxiousness, which results in a calmer, more focused pet.” Keep them stimulated Don’t let your dog or cat feel bored when home alone. Play music, keep a television on or use a white noise machine to create some constant sound. If your pet isn’t into watching television, keep him or her busy with a treat-dispensing toy that requires some work. Or stuff a toy with peanut butter, freeze it and give it to your dog when you leave. These ideas can help keep your pet’s mind stimulated and encourage him or her to focus on something other than being alone. Start thinking about a plan for your pet and ask your veterinarian if you have concerns about behavioral changes. Learn more and find the full survey results at vetriscience.com. (Family Features) 

J U LY 12, 2020

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 1 7

K I D S & FA M I LY

Donna’s Day: Creative Family Fun

Hats off to summer fun By Donna Erickson Signal Contributing Editor

packets, glue miniature toy fruits and vegetables, and a rubber worm.

ou can do more with a newspaper than just read and recycle it. Use it to make a hat — and wear it at your child’s birthday party, a picnic at the park or just for fun! All you need are recycled newspapers, a roll of masking tape, or a large rubber band and basic art supplies or picks from your garden, if you want to decorate it.

Tea party hat Glue silk flowers or tie fresh flowers and leaves around the hat. Attach streamers of ribbons to the back. You might want to add two lengths of ribbon attached to the sides to tie under your chin.

DIY basics

Open a large newspaper sheet and place it on your head. Set a second same size sheet over the first, going in the opposite direction. Place your hand on the top of your papercovered head while another person wraps masking tape in a circle on the newspaper, starting at your forehead and creating a band of tape around your head. Wrap tape around twice. If using a large rubber band instead of tape, another person places it on the newspaper covering your head just above your ears. Roll up all edges of newspaper tightly toward you to create a brim, or ask your helper to do it for you. Finished! Now it’s time to decorate. Pick a theme such as one of the following: Gardening hat Glue pieces of seed packets above the brim to create an eye-catching band. In between the

Wacky hat Paint designs in bright colors. Let dry. Wrap several pipe cleaners around your finger to form spirals. Poke through the paper and twist and tape securely on underside. Place the spirals randomly around the hat so they spring out. Attach charms, flowers or beads to the ends. Safari hat Paint with leopard spots, zebra stripes or camouflage designs. Glue plastic spiders, dried moss and leaves around the brim. Flag hat Decorate your hat to represent the flag of your state, or country of origin. Let dry. Squeeze household glue in star shapes over the blue portion and sprinkle with silver glitter. Show it off! Whatever your gathering, wear your “finery” in an im-

Ava McLean, 7, rolls up two sheets of the daily newspaper into a whimsical hat for her mom.

promptu parade or photo op. Donna Erickson’s award-winning series “Donna’s Day” is airing on public television nationwide. To find more of her creative family recipes and activities, visit www.donnasday.com

18 Î&#x2021; S U N D AYS I G N A L

SOLUTIONS

PUZZLES

J U LY 12, 2020

CROSSWORD TIME

J U LY 12, 2020

Opinion

S U N D AY S I G N A L · 1 9

Unless otherwise stated, the views and opinions expressed are those of the respective authors and do not necessarily represent the views of The Signal.

READERLETTERS

A Defense of Bob Kellar Ignorance is a powerful drug. Ignorance of anything allows the individual the latitude to indulge in flights of fancy and shout to the rooftops things that are believed but are far from the truth. The United States is currently suffering through an outbreak of deceit along lines that we have not seen in many years. Ms. Lisa M. McDougald (letters, June 19 and July 3)has been attacking Councilman Bob Kellar over the past several weeks. Bob Kellar does not need my defense, but I will offer it in any case. The branding of racism is popular now as a way of ignoring real problems and sending our focus in a different direction. There have been many instances of brutality over our 200-plus years of existence, some far more brutal than the George Floyd incident. None were justified and most were not condoned, but they happened, never the less. Man is an imperfect animal. We have striven since our inception to overcome our base instincts and not always with success. Some today feel that if they cry racism and tar an entire group of people with the same brush, that they have actually done something positive. One thing that you must bear in mind is that Bob Kellar is not a coward. We have seen cowardice demonstrated in all our major cities and by a number of our elected officials. The instinct to save oneself is strong in all of us, but there are those among us who feel strongly that to give in to fear is far worse than being harmed. Over the eons, there have been efforts to improve mankind. Religions have sprung up in various forms and we have made strides toward greater understanding and less violence, but as you have seen, violence is one of our baser instincts and has many motivations. Racism is not an issue. Ignorance is the cause of most of the problems of the day and those who seek to subvert the good for their own gain. The positive sentiments that you alluded to are not solutions to problems. They are simply a way of marking time until the problem goes away. There are no new problems. The same problems have been with us throughout the history of man. The ancient Greeks dealt with these same problems and found that solutions were fleeting. A reading of Plato and Aristotle is usually quite helpful. Jim Horton Valencia Submit a Letter to the Editor

Include name, address & phone; Anonymous letters are not printed; Email: letters@signalscv.com. Mail to: Letters, The Signal, 26330 Diamond Place, Ste. 100, Santa Clarita, CA 91350.

E T H I C A L LY S P E A K I N G

Leadership vs. Potty Training By David Hegg

t happened last week. All around me I saw camels with broken backs. They had borne the weight of incremental governmental sticks but it was finally too much. Really, Gov. Gavin Newsom? With all the real-life problems that surround us you’ve singled out singing in church as the villain? You officially permitted and personally participated in protests where thousands repudiated masks and social distancing but now you are intruding into the way we worship God? This last straw actually falls like a giant steel beam on the backs of those of us who have honorably submitted to the regulations to this point even though the facts upon which those regulations rely have been disputed, changed, and dubiously proclaimed again and again. Let me make it clear. We are tired of being treated like infants unable to think for ourselves. We are tired of being treated like those in need of potty training. And mostly, we are tired of governments that believe we need their regulations and restrictions in order to know how to live our lives. I will admit that we are all to blame. Little by little we have given away personal responsibility to government. What was meant to be “of the people, by the people, and for the people” has morphed into a belief that government is the parent we still need to tell us who we are and how to live. We have foolishly looked to government to solve our problems, make us happy, and most of all, tell us what to think. Well guess what? It is supposed to be the other way around. Here’s the problem. True freedom demands the twin attributes of mature thinking and personal responsibility. Where lack of critical thinking and personal responsibility exist, government steps in dressed as a nanny, and over time, she tells us how to think and act while insisting we can leave the ordering and well-being of our lives to her. We need to remember and recover the truth that governmental power is derived, not inherent. And while I do not envy any of our governmental leaders is this “no-win”

COVID-19 season, I do demand that they not panic and give in to their politically driven sensibilities. They simply must give we the people more respect, more credit for being able to think and order our lives. We are Americans. We understand what life demands. We recognize the challenges and risks of this present season. We agree that, for those who are dangerously selfish in their thinking, it is good to have some level of regulation. But when the camel’s back breaks we must protest. To go after singing in church is simply a bridge too far, and the implication speaks to far more than our modes of worship. It represents an egregious over-step, the kind that opens the door to far more intrusive regulations fueled by the equally egregious manipulation of statistics and the models based on them. We demand to be treated as adults who bear the responsibility of our choices rather than like children who are so uninformed that they need their Mommy when the lights go out. We also demand to be honored as the citizens who hold the real power in this country, as the camels who actually carry the load. We’re mostly good people, who will carry our burdens with courage and honor. But we will not cede our freedoms to those who desire to evaporate them from us, little by little. With you all, I’m praying God will stop this virus, and end this season of persistent apprehension. But let’s not miss the lesson to be learned. Our lives belong to us, and to our community, not to government. They work for us, are empowered by us, and must be accountable to us. We need leadership that works with us rather than lords it over us as though we were incapable of critical thinking and personal responsibility. Now if you’ll excuse me, I’ve got to go practice singing a little more softly. Local resident David Hegg is senior pastor of Grace Baptist Church. “Ethically Speaking” appears Sundays.

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