Sunday Signal August 2, 2020 by Signal

AUGUST 2, 2020

Keeping Cool

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AU G U S T 2, 2020

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 3

TABLE OF CONTENTS

NEWS FEATURES 4 5 6 7

Locally Owned and Operated

Parents helping with school’s distance learning Getting fit, staying socially distanced Capturing the best photos with your phone Restaurants expand summer dining options

FROM THE MAYOR

8 Finding and enjoying the city’s public art

HEALTH 9 9 Graves’ disease focus should be on eye health

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4 · S U N D AYS I G N A L

AU G U S T 2, 2020

N E W S F E AT U R E

How parents can help with schools’ distance learning By Caleb Lunetta Signal Staff Writer

istance learning is the new norm for the fall. That was decided over the course of the last few weeks here locally while schools and districts around the country grapple with decisions. And there are a number of things parents can do to ensure the experience students have at home is akin to one they would have within a classroom, according to a number of school districts and education experts.

Live instruction

The William S. Hart Union High School District, along with the elementary school districts within the Santa Clarita Valley, have said their plan is to simulate a classroom experience by following a number of key characteristics that would be found within a traditional learning setting. The following characteristics will be included in the virtual classroom: • There will be a districtwide platform for instructional delivery • Consistency in rigorous classwork • Required “live” interaction in every class between teachers and students • There will be increased accountability in the form of attendance and assignment-checking • Teachers will be teaching from course materials that they may have normally used These things will be able to provide structure and a sense of normalcy for students while they learn through the lens of an electronic screen.

How to make your home a classroom

The Newhall School District has been one of the districts leading the charge on how to teach parents to ensure their students are making the most of their distance learning. The district, through the help of a parent and district staff commission, has created a three-category guide to informing parents on what the best practices are moving forward. The first section of the Newhall School District “Parent Support Digital Learning Best Practices” guide, labeled Learning Environments and

Left: Cash Heter, 7, participates in a lesson about the theater that involved “The Wizard of Oz” during the previous school year with his online class. PHOTO Courtesy Brendie Heter Right: Tuning out distractions is one thing parents can play a big role in that will help their students succeed.

Routines, provides six points to parents that they believe parents would benefit from following. The points range from creating a daily routine, to creating a quiet learning environment free from distractions, making sure the student has the necessary supplies and checking-in with their students or students’ teachers on a weekly basis. “We realize that everybody’s living areas are different, and there could be multiple children that need to work in a common area,” said Dee Jamison, NSD’s assistant superintendent of instructional services. “Maybe tonight at dinnertime that’s where you eat dinner, but that is your space right now and, hopefully, TV is not blasting or music is not on.” Jamison said it’s also important for students to have their pencils, scissors, gluesticks and anything they’ll need for the day readily available to them. “In the classroom, (there’s) a desk, they have a chair, they have their supplies and they have their learning materials,” said Jamison. “But whatever it is (within the home), during the day, when it’s school time, that should be the learning space.” The second section for the Newhall School District’s guide is titled “Curriculum and Instruction” and asks parents to be supportive and yet allow for productive struggle. And throughout the distance learning experience,

parents are advised to monitor the completion of student work each day. “We’re going to have a daily template that teachers will be creating that the parents can look at and they can see, at a glance, what’s happening in each of these content areas today,” said Jamison. In the final section for the NSD parent guide, “Parent Engagement” is highlighted, with parents being asked to provide technological support, keep an open dialogue with their student’s teacher. Using the template created by the teachers, parents can set goals with their kids that help them achieve their academic benchmarks. “They can set goals for their children, (because) some things students are going to have a fairly strong handle on and other things they may have a bit more of a struggle,” said Jamison, adding that parents should ask their students “what do you want to accomplish this week as you’re looking at your instruction?” Jamison said that by following the guide and keeping in contact with their student’s teachers, the parents and district can provide the students with an appropriate student experience.

High school students

Kathy Hunter, the assistant superintendent of educational services

for the William S. Hart Union High School District, cited a number of ideas she had seen that were appropriate for the students approaching distance learning that were older than elementary school-age. While a number of the same tenants still apply for the older kids, such as finding a quiet place, letting the rest of the family know it’s time for school and being prepared for class by having all the materials downloaded and in front of you before the beginning of class, Hunter had a suggestion that parents of kids with cellphones ensure the device does not distract them. “Turn off your ringer and vibrate function to avoid the temptation to pick up your mobile phone,” read Hunter’s suggestion. “Remember to pause all text and app notifications to limit distractions. Better yet, turn your phone off unless you’re using it to attend class.” And while younger students may have varying levels of interest in their online classroom experience, older kids especially should be treating their classes like normal class. “Pay attention to the lectures, and do your assignments,” read Hunter’s list of suggestions for parents.”Finally, deadlines are still deadlines. Complete your work on time and respect your fellow students’ and educators’ time during online classes.” 

AU G U S T 2, 2020

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 5

N E W S F E AT U R E

Getting fit, staying socially distanced in the SCV By Tammy Murga Signal Staff Writer

lthough not an easy feat, many gym owners in the Santa Clarita Valley successfully hurdled through the first wave of coronavirus shutdowns and quickly adapted to the second round that has prohibited indoor operations. On July 13, Gov. Gavin Newsom announced that California would toggle back on its path toward reopening the economy amid a surge in COVID-19 cases by halting indoor services for some businesses such as hair salons and barbershops, malls and places of worship. Fitness centers also fell under that order, a tough hit many owners and their workers faced as they had only just set up for safe reopenings that included reservations, sanitizing stations, designated workout gear and cherry-picking the classes they deemed safe to continue offering. Like many, the ever-changing orders have not been easy to adjust to but necessary to get creative to stay afloat, said Larry Nolan, founder of Hardcore Fitness, which has locations in Santa Clarita and across the southern region. “We were just digging and scratching and clawing and trying to find ways to make it work,” he said. “We finally pulled it off and got all of our locations approved for outdoor workouts.”

‘Can’t stop, won’t stop’

After a wavering quarantine period that included placing customer memberships on hold and offering virtual sessions, Nolan said he knew Hardcore Fitness had to think outside the box. “We thought, how do we provide the best experience possible and really go above and beyond?” he said. “Consumers are just irritated and tired of being told you can, you can’t come, you have to wear a mask or you only have to wear the mask when you workout outside or inside. We needed to make it so that these members said, ‘Wow.’” Hardcore isn’t only in their name. The Santa Clarita team has doubled down on an outdoor setup in their parking lot that includes personal shaded canopies so that customers can workout despite the hot weather conditions. For that extra cooling effect, the canopies also have misters that go off periodically, all while trainers help members push through their workouts. To comply with safety measures needed, clients are each designated a parking slot to workout from to keep everyone at a distance. Each member has their own set of weights and equipment for their workout and is then sanitized by staff members for the next customer to use, according to Nolan. Outdoor operations have been successful, he said, adding that classes get filled quickly as the word has spread among members who had not returned to Hardcore Fitness since the initial shutdown.

Terry Telphy, right, encourages attendees as they work under pop-ups in the parking lot at Hardcore Fitness Boot Camp in Santa Clarita. PHOTO BY DAN WATSON / THE SIGNAL

“One of our members posted on (social media) that it was one of the best workouts in a long time, and that has helped get others to come by,” he said. Hardcore Fitness Santa Clarita is located on 20715 Centre Pointe Parkway. For more information, visit hardcorefitnessinc.com.

Finding solutions

Not all gyms have the appropriate space to move operations just outside their doors to a patio or parking lot, but that hasn’t stopped many from bringing their customers a place to continue their goals, including Results Fitness. “The order to shut down a second time took us by surprise. Our parking lot is not ideal. It’s sloped and we have the trash cans there, so it’s not the best. So, we looked at our options and thankfully the city (of Santa Clarita) let us have our workouts at Newhall Park because we didn’t have any other option,” said owner Rachel Cosgrove. Clients are only a short walk away from the Results Fitness facility and to the park, where they can pick up a protein shake from the gym’s all-natural shake cafe. Despite a limitation on equipment, Results Fitness specializes in bodyweight and functional training, which is a mix of cardiovascular and strength workouts that include using equipment such as kettlebells and sandbags — easy items to transfer to and from the park. “We give progressions and regressions, so it’s

really built for all levels so that we can give a hard version or an easy version. Don’t be intimidated if you’re not a workout person,” said Cosgrove. The business currently offers three workouts daily at the park, where clients can partake while under a tent, as well as sufficient space to practice physical distancing from one another. Each member will also be designated their own piece of equipment that is disinfected per use, said Cosgrove, who added that while outdoor services have been successful she’s “hoping we can get back in our gym soon.” “Our job is more important than ever right now, regardless of indoors or outdoors and even though it’s become more and more difficult to do,” she said. “If our clients are healthier and their immune systems are better, they’re going to end up getting through this pandemic healthier.” Besides outdoor sessions, Results Fitness also offers virtual classes and an app for those opting for an at-home workout session. Results Fitness is located on 24420 Walnut St. For more information visit results-fitness.com. Other gyms across the SCV, including the Santa Clarita Athletic Club and The Paseo Club, have adjusted to the current climate with the resources in hand, offering members outside classes in cycling, yoga, pilates and Zumba while keeping online alternatives for those who prefer to break a sweat from home. 

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AU G U S T 2, 2020

N E W S F E AT U R E

How to capture the best photos with your phone By Emily Alvarenga Signal Staff Writer

martphone cameras are getting better and better with each update released, so it’s no surprise that we are uploaded billions of photos to social media daily. Whether you want to start a travel blog or just want to learn how to take better selfies, there are a few things to keep in mind as you progress. The first step is to acquire a smartphone with a camera app: Oh, you’ve already got one? Perfect. Let’s start with some basics then.

Learn how your camera works

“Go online and find out how your camera app works,” said Rob Comeau, creative media professional and photography teacher at College of the Canyons. Learning about all the features offered can make a world of difference in how much you can get out of your phone.

Keep the lens clean

Although this may seem obvious, this step often goes unnoticed. Unlike professional cameras, your phone doesn’t have a lens cap to protect it from smudges and lint. The buildup of gunk on your camera’s lens can lead to hazy photos that no amount of editing can fix, according to Tom Windsor, a local photographer. “I recommend buying a lens cloth and some cleaner or wiping the lens with a cotton t-shirt if you’ve got nothing else,” Windsor said.

Turn your phone horizontally

Not only do horizontal pictures take up the entire screen and not just a tiny sliver but we consume content horizontally, not vertically, so Comeau suggests turning your phone on its side.

Tap the screen to focus.

Be sure to tap the screen of your smartphone to focus the camera on your subject, which will ensure that it’s focused and the view is sharpened, according to Windsor.

Use the volume button.

Turning your smartphone on its side has an added benefit — now you can use the volume up button to take

to take your photos Using the volume button fies by steadying your can help you take clear sel hand.

Tapping the sc reen can help your camera on your subje focus ct and correc t the lighting photo autom of the atically.

your photos. Doing this will almost force you to use both hands, which will increase your stability and reduce the shaking, Windsor said.

just simply holding the phone at eye level, but trying something different like lying down or getting an elevated position and shooting downward.

passing car’s headlights can make for an interesting photo, Peterson added.

Avoid zooming

Turn the grid on

Grid mode turns on a three by three grid on your screen, which allows you to use the rule of thirds, according to Peterson. “You want to place your subject where the lines cross and not in the dead center,” Comeau said. The idea is that photos are more balanced and pleasing to the eye when their subjects align with the imaginary grid that divides the photo, both Windsor and Peterson agree. “This is easily one of the most effective ways to improve the quality of your photos,” Windsor said.

With new technology comes better quality photos, and your phone’s camera typically has a few different modes that can make your photos look even better. For example, HDR, which stands for “high dynamic range,” means your camera will capture photos in a slightly different way. “Turning on HDR will make the color and definition of your photos more vivid,” Peterson said. “This helps images better resemble how the human eye sees something.”

Instead of using digital zoom, Comeau suggests cropping your photos afterwards. “It’s not really zooming, it’s just stretching the image,” Comeau said. “So your photos may lose quality.”

Learn when to use flash

Comeau says that flash only works when your subject is less than three feet away. “After that, it’s not helping you out,” Comeau said. The fact that the light is so close to the the lens almost ensures a semi-blurry photo every time, Windsor added. Turning the flash off by default may also be good idea as it can cause harsh lighting. Regardless, there are still instances where flash may be useful, including during the day when you want to remove shadows on your subject’s face, Comeau said. Now it’s just a matter of learning a few professional photography techniques that can make all the difference in your results.

Try some weird angles

“Taking pictures from weird angles can result in some of the best photos,” said Tammy Peterson, a local photography instructor. “It’s about seeing things from another perspective.” Comeau agrees and suggests not

Pay attention to the lighting

Lighting is, without a doubt, the most important aspects of photography, Peterson said. “Recognize where the light is coming from,” Comeau said. “You want the light to be at your back and shining on your subject.” While you should try your best to use natural lighting, don’t be afraid to turn more lights on, Comeau said. “The more light the better,” Comeau said. At night is a different story. Because of the lack of light, it’s vital to keep the camera and your subject really still to get a clear photo, Comeau said. You should also try to put your subject in the light at night, he suggests. Using street lights, store signs or a

Learn the modes your camera has

What about editing?

Although editing a photo can be a great benefit, less is more, according to Comeau. Find a good photo editing application, but don’t spend too much time on it. Experimenting is fine, but too much editing can make a photo look unnatural, Peterson said. Also, rather than using a pre-set filter, try editing afterwards. This gives you the chance to revert back to the original, according to Windsor. The ability to take photos anytime, anywhere, is the greatest advantage to this technology shift, but Comeau suggests that it’s still good to ask yourself why you are taking this photo. “Remember to put the camera down and enjoy the moment sometimes,” Comeau said. 

AU G U S T 2, 2020

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 7

N E W S F E AT U R E

Restaurants expand local summer dining options By Emily Alvarenga Signal Staff Writer

t a time when the coronavirus is at the forefront of everyone’s mind, restaurants across the Santa Clarita Valley are stepping up their game to provide guests with unique outdoor setups that allow for fun, yet safe dining. While some restaurants have chosen to use their existing outdoor patio spaces, others have taken advantage of new guidelines that allow them to expand into nearby sidewalks, streets and even parking spots. Regardless, restaurants have utilized tents, umbrellas, mist makers and other outdoor decor to make the experience as seamless as possible for their customers. For Councilman Bill Miranda, it’s a sign of American ingenuity, as restaurants figure out a way to sustain themselves through the pandemic. “This is a fantastic idea,” Miranda said. “It’s a blessing … not just for the restaurantours, not just for the employees, not just for the clients, but for all of us mentally, who are locked up in our homes, to be able to get out, get some fresh air and maybe even at a distance socialize with some people.” Here in the SCV, there are a plethora of options for al fresco dining, each of which provides its own one-of-akind experience.

Salt Creek Grille

Though Salt Creek Grille already had a large outdoor patio pre-COVID-19, the restaurant has pushed their bound aries, expanding into three patios, including a brand new courtyard patio. With fire pits and lights lining the trees and umbrellas, the locale offers the perfect ambiance for a night out. “It was like a whole new restaurant experience,” Saugus resident Whitney Edwards said about her recent trip to Salt Creek. “I honestly felt like I was in Paris, with the sparkly lights and warm weather.” While expecting things to be a bit different, Edwards was relieved that things felt once again “normal.” “Even with the face masks and shields our servers were great, as was the food, which was delicious as always,” she added.

Salt Creek Grille’s shaded outdoor dining area was always a popular outdoor dining option at the mall. PHOTO BY BOBBY BLOCK / THE SIGNAL

Salt Creek is open 11:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. Sundays through Thursdays, and 11:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays.

The Social

Known for its martinis and for providing a local fine dining experience, The Social’s new outdoor patio lives up to its reputation. The restaurant has created an outdoor patio to include a customized tent and wood deck that takes up about a half-dozen parking spots out front. “The patio looks like it’s been there all along,” Valencia resident Quinn Taylor said. “We went for the martinis, but honestly couldn’t have asked for a better dining experience.” The Social is open 4-9 p.m. Tuesdays through Saturdays.

Olive Terrace

Over at Olive Terrace, the restaurant’s outdoor seating has more than doubled in size, with tables that stretch around a fountain and across the sidewalks. In covering so much ground, the restaurant has been able to space tables well over 6 feet, and with lights wrapped around every pole, along with umbrellas and cooling fans, restaurant goers can enjoy their

meal in comfort. “They’ve got one of the best patio arrangements I’ve seen thus far,” Valencia resident Stephen Boone said. “We felt like we were almost on a private patio seated next to the fountain, with only one other table across the way.” Olive Terrace is open 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Mondays through Saturdays and 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Sundays.

Main Street Newhall

Restaurants between Market and 6th streets have taken over Main Street Newhall, filling parking stalls with outdoor eateries, some even putting in artificial grass. On weekends through August, the street is set to be closed to traffic, allowing restaurants and their customers more room to social distance, while on weekdays, water-filled K-rails allow for outdoor dining to continue through the week. Participating restaurants include Newhall Press Room, The Old Town Junction and Smokehouse on Main, while others, such as El Trocadero, are using their existing outdoor patio setups. While Way Station was another SCV restaurant that began without a patio, the tables and chairs that now line the

perimeter are almost always filled each morning, even on weekdays. “I love that I can finally get my breakfast fix again,” Newhall resident Walt Oliver said. “I’ve been coming to the Way Station since it opened in the ‘70s, and eating outside was just as enjoyable as it has always been eating inside.” Newhall couple Carl and Sam Phillips’ visit to Main Street on a recent weekend was their first outing in months. “It felt really good to get out there and feel some semblance of normal,” Carl Phillips said, chuckling. “The restaurants did a great job of making their setups look professional, even down to the fake grass.” Though only their first outing, the Phillips were impressed with the care each restaurant took in following public health guidelines through the heat. “We could see the effort they had taken in making everyone feel safe, and it was certainly much appreciated,” Phillips added. “We loved it and will definitely be returning.” Way Station is open 6 a.m. to 2 p.m. daily. The Old Town Junction is open from 11:30 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. M-Th, 11:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. F, 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Sat and 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Sunday. 

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AU G U S T 2, 2020

F R O M T H E M AY O R

Where to find and enjoy Santa Clarita’s public art By Mayor Cameron Smyth

f you’re out and about is Santa Clarita, you are bound to run into one of many public art pieces installed throughout our community. Whether it’s a sculpture, mural, painting or sidewalk poetry, talent and creativity are apparent in every piece featured. Take some time to enjoy the varied public art pieces in our City and support the work of local artists in the process! The best place to start when looking for public art in Santa Clarita is SantaClaritaArts.com/PublicArt. On the website, you have the ability to launch an online tour of all our City’s public art pieces. In addition, the site features an interactive map to help you find the address and location of the artwork so that you can plan your in-person visit! If you have an interest in a spe-

cific type of art, you can also narrow down your public artwork search by painting/mural, sidewalk poetry or sculpture. Some of the must-see paintings and murals in our community are Inertia, California Vaqueros and the Community Mosaic Mural. Installed just last year, Inertia by Miguel A. Del Real is located at the Santa Clarita Skate Park and features unique color combinations along the walls of the building. California Vaqueros by Nicole Punster can be found on Main Street in Newhall on an exterior wall. The mural tells the story of the original cowboys who settled the ranch lands in central and southern California with the use of vibrant colors and depictions. Last, the Community Mosaic Mural is located along the South Fork Trail, between Valencia Boulevard and McBean Boulevard. The mosaic mural, developed by ARTree and Shelly Mussenden, is comprised of beautiful

tiles that add a stunning brightness to our community. For those seeking sculptures in Santa Clarita, I recommend taking a trip to the IMAG_NE sculpture or one of our featured art bears. IMAG_NE is located in front of the Valencia Library and was developed by artist Emma Anna. The sculpture was built to resemble large scrabble tiles, with the second “I” purposely missing for visitors and residents to stand in and complete the word. The theme of imagination ties in perfectly with the goals of the Santa Clarita Public Library, making the sculpture’s current location an ideal home. Santa Clarita is also home to six art bears. Each art bear is a life-sized representation of a California Grizzly Bear constructed with fiberglass and various art tied to the bear’s theme. If you have an interest in poetry, a quick walk on some of Santa Clarita’s streets will bring you to Sidewalk Poetry like Small Town Remembered. Small Town Remembered by Kath-

erine Ward is etched into a portion of the sidewalk on Soledad Canyon Road. The printed words state: A country home, once unknown. Streets grow like rivers breaking ground. People come like rain. Small town at heart, we still feel it beat. We remember. Interested artists can discover more about the project at SantaClaritaArts. com/SidewalkPoetry. The public art examples mentioned above are just a glimpse of the wonderful art installations featured in Santa Clarita. Next time you are on a walk, run or bike ride in our City, see which ones you can spot! To learn more about Santa Clarita’s public art, virtual exhibitions, art resources and more, visit SantaClaritaArts.com.

Mayor Cameron Smyth is a member of the Santa Clarita City Council and can be reached at csmyth@santaclarita.com. The views expressed in his column are those of the City and do not necessarily reflect those of The Signal. 

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AU G U S T 2, 2020

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 9

H E A LT H

Graves’ disease: Focus should be on eye health

eople living with Graves’ disease have a lot to focus on. The disease, an autoimmune disorder that causes an overproduction of the thyroid hormone, causes a variety of troublesome symptoms, many of which can happen with other diseases, leading to misdiagnosis or delayed diagnosis. Some common symptoms include anxiety, tremors, heat sensitivity, weight loss, hair loss, change in menstrual cycle and irregular heartbeat. A related, yet separate condition that is important for people living with Graves’ to focus on is Thyroid Eye Disease, a serious, progressive and vision-threatening autoimmune disorder affecting up to half of the Graves’ community. In support of Graves’ Disease Awareness Month, Horizon Therapeutics and patient advocacy organization Prevent Blindness are working together to help people living with Graves’ understand their risk for TED

and how to manage symptoms if they appear. Spotting the signs and symptoms of TED early can help decrease the chances of serious, and potentially permanent, eye damage.

Focus on eye health

The first step is to understand your risk for TED. Primary risk factors include gender, age and smoking status. Women are five times more likely than men to develop TED, but men are at greater risk for more severe symptoms. The disease also occurs most often in people between the ages of 40-49 and 60-69 years old, and people who smoke are eight times more likely to develop TED. The next step is to observe the symptoms. TED causes inflammation and pressure behind the eyes that lead to symptoms such as sensitivity to light, a feeling of grittiness in the eyes, excessive tearing, swelling of the eyelids, redness and irritation. As the disease progresses, symptoms may include eye bulging, eye

misalignment and double vision. All of these symptoms can reduce a person’s independence, ability to work and self-confidence. “The profound physical changes to my appearance were devastating,” said Christine Gustafson, who has lived with Graves’ and TED for more than 10 years. “I did not recognize myself and actually frightened others as my face was transformed by TED. After years of living alone with this rare autoimmune disorder, I discovered a community of others with TED. Connecting with the right specialist and other TED patients was life-changing in the absolute best ways.”

Getting the care you need

If you have Graves’ disease and suspect you might have TED or notice changes in your eyes, you should contact an eye specialist who has experience treating TED. These include ophthalmologists, neuro-ophthalmologists and oculoplastic surgeons.

After receiving a TED diagnosis, resources can be used to stay informed and take action. For example, a symptom tracker can help monitor disease progression. It is important to be your own best advocate and speak up for the care you deserve. Tips for getting the right care include not downplaying symptoms when at the doctor’s office, asking questions to ensure all treatment options are presented, and bringing a friend or loved one along to provide support and help take notes during the appointment. To learn more about TED and access resources, such as a symptom tracker and the TED Specialist Finder, visit ThyroidEyes.com. (Family Features) 

For your safety: •

Frequent handwashing.

•

All employees and any visitors have their temperatures taken daily.

•

Emergency Department patients are screened before entering the building. Suspected contagious patients are immediately isolated.

•

All elective surgery patients are tested for COVID-19 days before their surgeries.

•

All employees and visitors wear masks.

•

Social distancing in all waiting areas.

•

Extra cleaning of all rooms and surfaces.

1 0 · S U N D AYS I G N A L

AU G U S T 2, 2020

BEAUTY

Common skin-care ingredients that are good for you

he skincare industry is thriving. Many products feature prominently in daily self-care routines, and various items — particularly those with natural and organic ingredients — have surged in popularity. The sales of skincare products in the United States grew by 13% in 2018, reaching the $5.6 billion mark, according to The NPD Group, a market research company. New skincare products are introduced each year. Consumers also have more skincare guides, such as social media, at their disposal, which encourages them to become more informed about which ingredients and products to use. The following are some common skincare product ingredients and their purposes.

Vitamin C Scientifically known as ascorbic acid, vitamin C is found in many different anti-aging skincare products. Experts say that it protects

skin from free radicals and can help brighten overall complexion. Rocio Rivera, Ph.D., and vice president of L’Oréal Paris Scientific Communications, says vitamin C can help combat fine lines, wrinkles and discoloration in the skin that leads to signs of premature aging. A good skincare formula will contain 10-20% pure vitamin C. Look for a product that does not contain water, as that can deactivate the vitamin C. Vitamin E This antioxidant also protects the skin against damage. It is marginally more effective in the natural form than synthetic. Hyaluronic acid Hyaluronic acid is a powerful hydrator. It is a type of sugar molecule that keeps tissues in the body cushioned and lubricated. Birnaur Aral, Ph.D., director of the Good Housekeeping Institute Beauty Lab, says hyaluronic acid is found in skin, joints and connective tissue. Serums containing HA may help to plump up the skin by drawing hydra-

They are chemical exfoliators that, by removing dead skin, can help lead to more even skin pigmentation, improved texture and decreased inflammation. AHAs are derived from fruits, dairy or sugar cane. BHAs are often derived from willow bark and salicylic acid is the most commonly known. BHAs are oil soluble and are able to penetrate more deeply into the skin than AHAs.

tion from the air into the skin. Benzoyl peroxide This antibacterial agent is considered highly effective for killing bacteria that may contribute to acne. According to Healthline, benzoyl peroxide addresses bacteria under the skin and helps pores shed dead skin cells and excess sebum. Collagen This fibrous protein acts as a water-binding agent to keep moisture locked into the skin. Alpha- and beta-hydroxy acids These are acids that gently unclog pores by removing dead skin cells.

Coenzyme Q10 This fat-soluble ingredient is produced naturally in the body. The substance may have soothing antioxidant effects on the skin when topically applied. As a person ages, he or she makes less CoQ10, potentially leaving the skin more vulnerable to damage, offers WebMD. That’s the reason CoQ10 can be found in skin care products such as toners, gels and creams. Understanding the ingredients in common skincare products can help consumers make more informed decisions. (MC) 

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S U N D AYS I G N A L · 1 1

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

Comedy Central’s Povitsky: ‘Hot for My Name’ By Richard Roeper Signal Contributing Writer

‘Hot for My Name’

1/2 (out of four) 

“I

f you need to go onstage and get attention from a big group of people, that means something’s wrong with me … and THAT is because of something you guys did.” — comedian Esther Povitsky, in conversation with her parents. “Holy cow! That is such horse ----. I’ve never heard such horse ---- in my life.” — Esther’s dad. You kill me, Esther Povitsky. That sounds a little like the title of an unproduced Neil Simon play from 1977, but it’s how I feel about Esther Povitsky after experiencing her hilarious, insightful, original and damn endearing stand-up special/reality show “Hot for My Name,” premiering Friday on Comedy Central. Based on Povitsky’s well-honed, self-deprecating and consistently funny onstage persona, coupled with offscreen footage of Povitsky engaging in barbed but loving repartee with her deadpan-funny parents, Morrie and Mary, I’m all-in for an Esther Povitsky film vehicle or an Esther Povitsky sitcom and/or a full season of reality shows starring Esther, Morrie and Mary. In Povitsky’s debut special, we see clips from multiple performances at the Dynasty Typewriter at the Hayworth Theater in Los Angeles, interspersed with documentary footage of Esther visiting her hometown of Skokie, Illinois, to explore how and why her upbringing contributed to her path to become a performer. In her opening routine, Povitsky — dressed like she’s starring in a 1950s movie about a shy receptionist, will turn out to be a bombshell when she takes off those glasses and lets her hair down — explains why she didn’t change her name when she embarked on a career in show business. “I sound like a very old Polish cabbage farmer,” she notes. “Whatever, I’m hot ... for my name. You know that’s true! When they say, ‘Esther Povitsky!’ and I walk out, you’re like, ‘OK.’ But if someone said, ‘This is my friend Ashley’ (and you saw

me), you’d be like, ‘Ew. Why is Adam Driver’s little brother wearing that skirt?’” Cut to Skokie, and Esther’s parents’ house, where we meet a couple of pups identified as “Duncan, Good Dog,” and “Pepper, Bad Dog,” as Morrie tells Esther how horrible she was doing a modern dance routine as a child. Meanwhile, Mary tells Esther she has something under her nose, but it turns out that’s just a shadow. Of Esther’s nose. That might sound meaner than it comes across, as there’s a twinkle in Morrie’s eye when he ribs his daughter, and Mary seems more blissfully oblivious than intentionally demeaning. Nevertheless, one can see how Povitsky gravitated toward a profession where there’s instant gratification and enthusiastic displays of affection from strangers who have paid to hear her thoughts. With a sweet delivery belying a sharp wit, and onstage presence that brings to mind early Sarah Silverman and Whitney Cummings, Povitsky, who is 32 but could convincingly play a college freshman, travels in familiar stand-up territory, mining personal relationships and sex for material and displaying a gift for observational humor. “When you look like me, you tend to date guys who have really strong feelings about magic,” she says. “And if I can pretend to like magic for one night, aren’t I the greatest magician of all?” Then we’re back in Skokie, this time at the public library, where Morrie shows Esther a shelf filled with books written by comedians such as Jay Leno and Amy Schumer and Bob Saget and Norm Macdonald and tells her she could write a book: “For you, it might be a comic book.” Later, we’re at a restaurant in New York, where Esther’s beautiful, blond mother coolly relates an anecdote about a teacher supposedly locking Esther in a closet as punishment and Esther wanting

PHOTO COURTESY COMEDY CENTRAL

her mother to call the police. Mom says she was sure Esther was exaggerating “because you were always blowing things out of proportion,” and Morrie chimes in, “That was a good idea, to put you in the closet. We should have thought of that,”

while Mary says, “Oh, this is the rice dip” as she turns her attention to the appetizers. Again: I know that sounds a bit horrifying, but my guess is Esther inherited her gifts for exaggerated storytelling from her parents. Even as they give her grief, we never doubt they love her. Well. Almost never. “Esther Povitsky: Hot for My Name” ends on a brilliant and slightly bizarre final note, with actors Priscilla Barnes, Christine Taylor and Andrew Friedman (among others) playing heightened versions of Esther’s loved ones, as Esther kicks into a fantastic musical number lamenting how she got her dad’s eyebrows and nose and how her mom is “graceful as a swan, [but] I look like a Hobbit with overalls on.” Careerwise, Esther Povitsky deserves to be hotter than hot by any name.  Copyright 2020 Chicago Sun Times

1 2 · S U N D AYS I G N A L

AU G U S T 2, 2020

FOOD

Cook it Once … Enjoy it Twice

ook once, eat twice. It’s a kitchen practice as simple as it sounds. Cook a base dish that can be enjoyed today and used for an entirely different meal tomorrow. For example, bake some fish for tonight’s dinner, and enjoy fish tacos for tomorrow’s lunch. With so many Americans preparing meals at home, the practice of cooking once and eating twice can extend your grocery budget while also making meal planning less stressful and more comforting. Cooking meals that feed the entire family is essential and even better if they give you a jump on a second meal. Whether your love for cooking runs deep or is being newly discovered, keep the following in mind when planning to cook once and eat twice: Stock up on staples. Before heading out to the store, develop a list of ingredients that can be used for multiple dishes. Canned goods, such as black beans and corn, are great items to store in the pantry and have on hand for a variety of favorite family recipes. Other basics like corn tortillas can be used in multiple ways, such as tacos, casseroles and even salads. Don’t forget produce. To increase flavor and nutrition, adding produce is key in your planning. Mushrooms are a favorite among chefs and home cooks alike for many reasons. Traditionally known for their inherent umami flavor, mushrooms are filling, healthy and versatile. Crimini and portabella are excellent sources of selenium, an antioxidant that protects cells from damage that may lead to serious chronic diseases. For example, four crimini mushrooms provide 38% of your daily recommended value. Also, the variety of mushrooms

Blended Tacos Makes: 8 tacos 1 cup sour cream 6 tablespoons cilantro, chopped 2 tablespoons lime juice 8 yellow corn tortillas 2 cups Mexican Mushroom-Beef Blend diced avocado (optional) shredded lettuce (optional) shredded cheese (optional) salsa (optional) In small bowl, mix sour cream, cilantro and lime juice. Cover and refrigerate. Warm tortillas in microwave or on stovetop according to package directions. Spoon 1/4 cup Mexican Mushroom-Beef Blend into each tortilla. Top with sour cream mixture and avocado, lettuce and cheese as desired.

contain essential vitamins and nutrients, such as vitamins B and D and riboflavin. Make meat go further. A three-step cooking technique called “The Blend” combines finely chopped mushrooms with ground meat to create dishes that are more nutritious while still tasting delicious. You can use the process to create multiple dishes such as tacos, pasta sauce and burgers. Mushrooms’ ability to mimic the texture of meat makes them easy to incorporate, and the addi-

1 package (1 ounce) reduced-sodium taco seasoning mix 1 can (15 ounces) crushed tomatoes 1 can (11 ounces) yellow kernel corn, drained In food processor, pulse onion and mushrooms to coarse texture. Set aside.

Mexican Mushroom-Beef Blend

Makes: 8 cups 1 medium yellow onion 8 ounces fresh button or crimini mushrooms 1 pound lean ground beef 1 tablespoon olive oil 2 cans (15 ounces each) black beans, drained

In large frying pan, brown ground beef. Drain fat. Set aside. In same frying pan, heat oil. Add mushroom mixture and saute 3-4 minutes, or until most moisture has been released. Add black beans and mix. Add beef, taco seasoning, tomatoes and corn to black bean and mushroom blend. Mix and cook until heated through. 

tion of finely chopped mushrooms to meat dishes stretches portions, allowing the family to enjoy a meat-mushroom base two days in a row in two different ways in dishes like Mexican Lasagna and Blended Tacos, both of which include a Mexican Mushroom-Beef Blend. (Family Features) For more simple and delicious recipes, visit MushroomCouncil.com. 

Mexican Lasagna Servings: 6-8 Nonstick cooking spray 16 yellow corn tortillas 6 cups Mexican Mushroom-Beef Blend 1 cup shredded, low-fat Mexican cheese blend sour cream (optional) chopped cilantro (optional) salsa (optional) Heat oven to 350 F. Spray bottom of 9-by-13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray. Place four corn tortillas on bottom of dish and layer 2 cups Mexican Mushroom-Beef Blend on top. Repeat layers, ending with tortillas as top layer. Top with cheese. Bake uncovered 25 minutes, or

until cheese melts and lasagna is heated through. Top with dollops of sour cream, cilantro and salsa as desired. 

AU G U S T 2, 2020

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 1 3

SENIORLIVING

Car maintenance and social distancing

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he outbreak of the novel coronavirus COVID-19 in the winter of 2019-20 required people of all ages and backgrounds to make changes in their daily lives. Elderly men and women were among the groups the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention identified as high-risk for severe illness from COVID-19. That forced people 65 years and older to be especially cautious when engaging in otherwise normal activities, including having their vehicles serviced. In recognition of this, many auto dealerships and service shops implemented changes to their operations to ensure the safety of their employees and their customers, including those in high-risk groups. Seniors can take additional measures to ensure they stay safe while having their vehicles serviced.

Inquire about safety measures

Before booking vehicle maintenance appointments, seniors should call the dealership or body shop to determine what’s being done to keep everyone safe. Many such businesses quickly implemented new safety protocols so they should be ready and willing to share this information over the phone. Look for specific information about sanitization practices. • Are vehicle interiors being sprayed with disinfectant before and after maintenance appointments? • Are employees wearing masks each day?

• Are employees being checked for COVID-19 symptoms before each shift? These are some of the simple yet effective measures many dealerships and body shops are taking to ensure the safety of their customers.

Ask about pickup service

Some communities that have reopened are encouraging high-risk segments of the population to adhere to stay-at-home measures. Elderly men and women are still vulnerable even if the number of reported cases in their towns has decreased. Pickup service, where a service shop employee will pick up and then drop off a customer’s car once the work is done, can be a great way for elderly drivers to have their vehicles serviced without going out in public. Even if pickup is not policy, ask if it’s possible and request that your vehicle be disinfected upon being returned. If pickup is not an option, ask a younger friend or family member to drive your car in for maintenance in your place.

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Only visit safe facilities

Those who must visit a dealership or body shop in person should confirm that waiting rooms feature socially distant seating. If possible, drop the car off and then go for a walk or find somewhere safe off the premises to read a book or listen to music while waiting. Elderly drivers who need to have their vehicles serviced can take certain steps to stay safe in the era of social distancing. (MC) 

1 4 · S U N D AYS I G N A L

AU G U S T 2, 2020

HOME

Custom millwork can add appeal and a classic feel

omeowners are discovering that architectural accents can go a long way toward improving both the look and value of their homes. When renovating a space, the term “millwork” may be mentioned by designers and contractors. While it might be a mystery to some, millwork can give rooms unique looks. Millwork refers to items traditionally made from raw lumber in a sawmill. Examples of millwork include crown molding, base trims, door frames, window casings, chair rails, and paneling. Cabinets may also classify as millwork. Used for both decoration and to increase the functionality of buildings, millwork comes in various types. Generally, millwork is fabricated in two ways. Stock millwork tends to be mass-produced commercial items. These low-cost items are interchangeable and may be widely available at retailers, including home improvement centers. Custom millwork is a product that is custom designed and produced for individuals and special building projects. Sometimes referred to as “architectural millwork,” these pieces may be more ornate and made-to-order. Homeowners who want to match a focal point of a home or an existing style often turn to custom millwork. Between the 15th and 18th centuries, ornate millwork was largely reserved for royalty or the very wealthy. Skilled carpenters would hand carve each piece, taking weeks to finish most projects. Eventually, millwork became more commonplace. Distinguishing one property from another today could mean turning back to the more distinctive designs of the past. Homeowners looking for ways to enhance their properties can embrace millwork to achieve a luxury feel without a sizable investment. The first step is to choose millwork that will coordinate with the era and style of a home’s existing decor. Ornate millwork in an overly modern house may seem out of place.

Architectual millwork includes wainscotting, as shown on the left lower walls, and built-in bookcases, as shown on the right. Below are examples of crown, or ceiling, molding at the top of the cabinets.

The millwork should match the architectural theme of the home. Although some do-it-yourselfers can successfully install prefabricated millwork, for custom designs and a truly seamless look, it is important to have millwork professionally installed. Individuals should research carpenters who specialize in millwork and verify their license and reputation through a consumer protection agency. Popular types of millwork include crown molding, corbels, wainscotting and custom bookcases. Homeowners may not realize that millwork can be added to spaces of all sizes to give them an air of sophistication. Although millwork was traditionally formed from hardwoods, eco-friendly homeowners can now find millwork crafted from synthetic materials and even reclaimed woods. Millwork can add that special touch to the interior or exterior of a home. Learn more by visiting worldmillworkalliance.com. (MC) 

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AU G U S T 2, 2020

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 1 5

GARDENING

Signs that voles are invading your garden

ll sorts of uninvited guests can compromise the look and vitality of a garden. Some gardens are trampled by foot traffic, while others are plagued with weeds. Still others are plagued by small, tunnel-building rodents known as voles. Voles are often confused with moles. While they do bear some similarities, namely that both travel through lawns and gardens via tunnels, voles and moles are not one and the same. In fact, moles are not even rodents. The Old Farmer’s Almanac notes that voles eat mainly vegetarian diets. That makes vegetable gardens prime targets for these small rodents that some mistake for mice. But Pests.org, a comprehensive resource for anyone looking to learn about pests and the threats they pose, notes that voles’ eyes and ears are considerably smaller than the eyes and ears of mice. In addition, voles’ tails are much shorter than the tails on mice.

er plants may be necessary to uncover this symptom.

Partially eaten root vegetables

Correctly diagnosing issues is essential to maintaining a healthy garden, and identifying vole infestations is no exception. The following are some signs that typically indicate a lawn or garden has been infested with voles.

Voles may eat root vegetables like carrots and potatoes by pulling them down into their tunnels. You’ll see partially eaten vegetables in the garden.

Damaged trees and shrubs

Voles don’t limit their victims to

Bridal bouquets

Shallow tunnels throughout the property

Voles create shallow tunnels between one and two inches wide, and these tunnels can typically be found all over the lawn. Grass stems and blades are part of voles’ diets, so don’t just look to the garden for signs of vole infestation.

Markings on bark and plants

Pests.org notes that voles may leave small gnaw marks on bark and plants. A careful inspection of trees and oth-

grass and root vegetables. Young trees and shrubs that are leaning over may have fallen victim to vole infestations. Homeowners can employ various strategies to control and prevent vole infestations. But first they must be certain the unwanted guests tunneling their way through their lawns and gardens are, in fact, voles. (MC) 

In ancient times, garlands or flowers symbolized the bride’s fertility. In the Middle Ages, wedding bouquets were packign with pungent herbs; garlic, spices and dill were used to fend off evil spirits and bad luck that might plague the bride and the guests. The tradition of tossing the bouquet began from guests tearing pieces from the bride’s dress for good luck; the bride would divert attention from this practice by throwing either the bouquet or the garter. — Brenda Weaver Source: www.roseandblossom.com

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AU G U S T 2, 2020

SPORTS

COC ‘fall’ teams gearing up for sports seasons By Noelle Blumel Signal Contributing Writer Perry Smith Sunday Signal Editor

hile teams would normally be gearing up for intense offseason workouts this time of year, College of the Canyons coaches have been building a virtual community with their athletes during the quarantine, COC Athletic Director Chuck Lyon said Wednesday. The California Community College Athletic Association (CCCAA) officially postponed all fall sport seasons to January 2021 in a statement posted July 9. “The CCCAA Board of Directors overwhelmingly approved implementation of its Contingency Plan on Thursday, providing a return to intercollegiate athletics for the 2020-21 academic year that shifts all sports,

including football, to the spring season,” the statement read. COC is among the thousands of community colleges throughout California who will be enduring athletic postponement until January. Lyon said in the meantime, the focus has been on making sure the student athletes are staying in contact and on track with their student goals while the CCCAA has activities on hiatus. “We’re trying to wrap our arms around our current student athletes to make sure that they’re staying up to date with their education first — that’s the most important thing,” Lyon said. “And we’re just making sure we’re having contact with them so we know where they’re at and how they’re doing and if they have any questions, since we can’t bring them to campus. “Right now, the plan for the state, not just us, is to run fall sports starting Jan. 18,” Lyon said, adding that

there would be a reduced schedule, as well, when sports resume. “And basically, (‘fall sports’) would run through (April 10), and then we would start traditional spring sports on (April 10) and we’d run to (June 15).” The changes are requiring the teams to play only 70% of the traditional number of games, Lyon said, which is already being worked on by schedulers, in order to keep the season a little closer to the school year. The sports are already set to go about a month past the college’s traditional graduation date, Lyon said. “So football always plays 10 games, so we’re playing seven,” Lyon said, discussing the changes. “Basketball is going to be playing 20 games instead of 28.” This plan was devised so that sports teams would not overlap and cause confusion for practice times, as some sports use the same facilities.

“So what that’s gonna do is it’s gonna mean more conference competition, less non-conference competition,” Lyon said. “And as a result, less travel, which is really what we’re after.” Lyon added that there will be no state level competition this year whatsoever. “We’re not having state playoffs, so we won’t have state champions this year for any sport this school year,” he said. “So those are some of the adjustments we’ve made to try to play this year.” In the meantime, student athletes will have to adhere to alternate practice approaches made by their coaches. “That’s until October,” Lyon said. “It’s all based on what (the L.A. County Public Health Department) says we can do. We will reconvene again in October.” 

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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

Hammer natural prints with garden leaves

reen leaves just don’t get the attention they deserve. Usually, we “ooh” and “aah” in the fall at the emerging splashy colors of crimson and golden leaves on trees and bushes. But there is infinite variety in the green and the gray of those leaves on trees, vegetable plants and bushes that continually grow, shade and add a natural umbrella in gardens and parks in the hottest of summer days. Pick a handful of fresh leaves and sprouting greens from your trees, shrubs and vegetable garden, and look at them with your kids through a magnifying glass. Observe their intricate patterns and delicate design, and then print them onto fabric with a zany technique using a hammer from the toolbox and your child’s muscle and energy. First, collect the fresh green leaves. Ferns from an indoor floral bouquet also work well. Then, decide what you would like to print, such as a

plain white or cream-colored cotton fabric T-shirt, an apron, potholder or library book bag. Cover a hard, flat surface such as a picnic table or wooden breadboard with plain paper bags. Set the fabric to be printed on top. If using a T-shirt or tote bag, place a sheet of wax paper or cardboard inside the shirt or bag. Arrange a leaf or fern on the fabric (secure it in place with small pieces of masking tape, if you wish), and cover with a sheet of wax paper. Hammer over the wax-paper-covered leaf until its color has been absorbed into the fabric. It’s important that you hit every part of the leaf to release the natural pigments. Remove the leaf or fern and wax paper to reveal the natural image. Colors vary in intensity, so you may wish to test several varieties on a piece of scrap fabric first. Repeat the process with additional leaves. Try it with a few flowers, too, and see how the beautiful colors from nature appear. Label each print with the name of the tree, plant or flower using a permanent marker. Note The natural pigments may

eventually fade. Wash fabric in cold water. Extra idea You also may use paper instead of fabric to create lovely stationery, gift tags or bookmarks. 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 and link to the NEW Donna’s Day Facebook fan page. Her latest book is “Donna Erickson’s Fabulous Funstuff for Families.”  © 2020 Donna Erickson Distributed by King Features Synd.

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Opinion

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

SUSD Under Cloak of Darkness Has anyone else besides me noticed the pattern that the Saugus Union School District adopts its worst and most controversial agenda items when it is virtually impossible for anyone to notice or participate? Could it be that they don’t want the public to know or participate in the decision? Take for instance what they deceptively labeled as their “Dual Language Immersion Program,” passed a year and a half ago with no notice to the public other than placing it as an agenda item two weeks before Christmas. In other words, while the majority of the district is overwhelmed frantically racing around getting the house clean, putting up decorations, getting presents wrapped, preparing the food, preparing to travel, the SUSD enacts a quasi-open-borders program that allows out-of-district students who want virtually all of their curriculum taught in Spanish access into Highlands Elementary School. This program also includes chain migration of the extended family of the enrolling students into Highlands Elementary and then future access to the William S. Hart Union High School District. I wonder why they didn’t want anyone to know. In early July they took their resolution that initially started off as a school district endorsement of the Black Lives Matter political organization, but then changed it to just address perceived inequity, plus an undefined “equity” program. The Black Lives Matter political organization endorsement was nearly put back into their resolution at 11:30 p.m., if it wasn’t for some diligent community member who interrupted the Zoom meeting yelling, “All lives matter!” The resolution passed around midnight, which meets my definition of cloak of darkness. Is anyone else besides me seeing a pattern here? It’s almost as if this school board doesn’t want the public to know and participate in what they are doing. I wonder why? Greg Aprahamian Saugus

Left: Live by the Sword, Die by the Sword I’m not a religious person, and I don’t believe in God, but if that Judeo-Christian book called the Bible has even a shred of truth in it, liberal cities across America (like San Francisco and New York City) are going to suffer a fate the likes of Sodom and Gomorrah, which, by the way, were also liberal cities. And from the looks of it they don’t even need a wrathful and vengeful Old Testament God to punish them for their stubborn rebelliousness. They are doing it to themselves. They are trashing and burning their own cities, and their elected leaders are allowing it. “We’ll just blame it all on Trump,” they say. Well, it’s not that easy. You don’t need to be President Donald Trump (or someone like him) to see that cities (and states) controlled by Democrats are in worse shape socially and economically than their Republican counterparts. That’s the difference between order and chaos. It’s visible, it’s measurable, and it’s noticeable. I have never seen a more self-destructive breed of people than liberals. And I don’t say that as a conservative. I say that as a person who has eyes that see. Arthur Saginian Santa Clarita Submit a Letter to the Editor

AU G U S T 2, 2020

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

Please Tell Us the Truth By David Hegg

s ethics are the outworking of values, so also actions are the evidence of what really fills the heart. One of the hardest tasks we all face is determining the trustworthiness of those with whom we deal daily. Which contractor should we use? Which dealership should we trust? Who can we believe? Where can we go to find an honest opinion and a fair deal? All these questions come back to the same starting point: how do we determine the character of those we depend on? There is no one simple formula for assessing integrity and trustworthiness. There are, however, several tests which, taken together can substantially validate a person’s character. One of them is the connection between what people say and what they really think. In Matthew 12:34 Jesus said, “For the mouth speaks out of that which fills the heart.” If you listen long enough you can usually determine a whether a person is committed to truth, or simply a verbal pragmatist. In the courts witnesses are asked to swear an oath to offer honest testimony. It goes like this: “Do you swear to tell the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth?” Let’s take a closer look at this little test. Imagine that you are staring at a blank sheet of paper with a horizontal line drawn in the middle. Let’s call this line “the truth.” The witness is being called to hold that line, to tell the truth. Further, they are required not to go above it or fail to come up to it. If they fail to come up to the line they have not told the whole truth. There is more to the story that needs to be told but they have stopped short. This gives the impression that part of the truth is enough. However, leaving out parts of the truth fails to gain the line. If they go above the line they have offered more than the truth. They have gone past what is true and added other

information that now is masquerading as truth. This greatly confuses the issue since material has now been admitted into evidence that can obfuscate the actual truth. In assessing character nothing is more useful than listening to what someone says. We simply have to ask: Do they say what they mean, and mean what they say? Are they clear about the truth and careful to hold the line? Or are they purposefully vague, interested in maintaining wiggle room and plausible deniability? Are they given to be self-protective at the expense of the truth or are they comfortable divulging what they really believe? The great band The Who had a song that asks a penetrating question: “Who are you?” In every relationship, be it in business, politics or our personal lives, this question is paramount. Who are you, really, when no one is looking, when there are no recording devices or cameras around? The only way we’ll know the truth is if you tell it to us. Please hold the line. Be a person of integrity. Tell us what you think and who you are and then stick to it. Increasingly our national ethic is eroding to the place where duplicity is considered finesse, and the ability to spin is seen as essential. But giving in to this sort of pragmatic activity is really the road to ruin. We hunger for friends and leaders who will have a settled conviction and be unafraid to present it, define and defend it, and then stand up for it without wavering. Marcus Aurelius said it well: “If it is not right, do not do it, if it is not true, do not say it.” Simply put, character is king, and those who have it and can express themselves clearly and consistently deserve to be listened to, followed and modeled. We just need to find them. Local resident David Hegg is senior pastor of Grace Baptist Church. “Ethically Speaking” appears Sundays. 

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