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JUNE 27, 2021

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FIREWORKS SAFETY FOR THE FOURTH

DESSERTS AND DRINKS IN FOR THE SUMMERTIME

SUSTAINABLE IMPROVEMENTS FOR YOUR HOME

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Build your deal during the Certified Pre-Owned Sales Event.

J U N E 27, 2021

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 3

TABLE OF CONTENTS

FOURTH OF JULY

NEWS FEATURES

FROM THE MAYOR

4 Michele makes Fourth of July eats

5 How to safety handle fireworks during upcoming holidays 6 When the Santa Clarita Valley is the canvas 7 Hitting those SCV hiking trails 8 Great music, better company at Concerts in the Park

FOOD 9 9 Summertime cream pie and a cool drink

ENTERTAINMENT 10 1 0 Honoring the music group Sparks, another Pixar gem 12 Searching for a rainbow — then look no further

SENIOR LIVING

HOME AND GARDEN

KIDS & FAMILY

1 3 14 16 18 19 20 22

How exercise can help you live longer Comfort Keepers The Document People Molly Maids Ellie Lacy Henry Mayo Newhall Hospital Providence Holy Cross Medical Center Audiology Associates

2 3 A few simple, sustainable backyard improvements 24 Tips before deciding to do a DIY demolition 2 5 Donna’s Day: Strawberry Shortcake for Independence Day Junior Whirl • Get the Picture? • Animal Fact

PUZZLES 26 OPINION 27 SPORTS

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4 · S U N D AYS I G N A L

Michele makes … Fourth of July eats

J U N E 26, 2021

F O U R T H O FJ U LY

By Michele E. Buttelman Signal Staff Writer

elebrate the Fourth of July with more than hot dogs and hamburgers thrown on the backyard grill. Make it a special day with “custom” kabobs, a unique coleslaw salad and a dessert that screams “Hurray for the Red, White and Blue!” Add in some simple grilled corn, bacon-wrapped asparagus and a few tasty beverages, and you’ve got a Fourth of July party fit for a patriot!

1/4 cup soy sauce 1 tsp. black pepper

Chicken and Duck Glaze 2/3 cup soy sauce 2/3 cup honey 1/2 cup canola oil 1 tbsp. prepared horseradish 2 tsp. steak seasoning 2 garlic cloves, minced

Veggie Glaze

For your vegan and vegetarian friends. Finish this kabob with a drizzle of balsamic vinegar after you remove it from the grill.

1/4 cup canola oil 2 garlic cloves, minced 1 tbsp. dried basil 1 tsp. salt

Pro tip Marinade your meat then cook on the grill, or in the oven. Put all the meats and veggies on separate plates, have your guests assemble their “kustom kabobs.” Glaze the kabobs and grill for a few minutes on all sides to finish. The best part of the kabobs is always the “char” from the grill. Glazes listed below should compliment the marinades used for the meat.

Lamb Marinade

1/4 cup olive oil 3 cloves garlic, pressed Juice of 1 lemon Fresh rosemary, cut fine Fresh mint, chopped

Steak Marinade

1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil 10-12 cloves fresh garlic, minced 3 tbsp. Worcestershire sauce 2 tbsp. Dijon mustard 1 tbsp. black pepper 1/2 tsp. salt

Duck Marinade

2 tbsp. finely grated orange zest 3/4 cup orange juice 1/4 cup honey

Using shredder disc in food processor, or hand shredder, shred cabbage, carrot and apple. Finely cut up green onions, using all of the onion, from tip to tip. Sprinkle with pomegranate arils and nuts or sunflower seeds and serve with dressing on the side. I have a friend who makes this salad and adds shredded pear. I’ve never been successful with the pear portion, it’s either too mushy or too “green.”

Red, White and Blue Shortcake

1 1/2 quarts strawberries, sliced (6 cups) 1 1/2 cups sugar 4 2/3 cups Bisquick 1 cup milk 6 tbsp. sugar 6 tbsp. melted butter 2 cups blueberries 1 tub non-dairy whipped cream topping (you can also use real whipped cream you make yourself, or the spray can variety). Mix strawberries and 1 1/2 cups sugar. Let stand 1 hour. Heat oven to 425 F. Mix Bisquick, milk, 6 tbsp sugar and the butter until soft dough forms.

‘Kustom’ Kabobs

We all like different foods. Why make a “onetaste-fits-all” kabob when it is so easy to create “custom” kabobs to suit everyone’s taste? First gather a bunch of veggies for the kabobs. I usually “par-cook” these so they’re mostly done and just need to be reheated on the grill.

1 apple Sliced almonds or sunflower seeds to taste (about 1/2 cup) 1/2 bottle coleslaw dressing 1 cup pomegranate arils

Veggies Cherry tomatoes, onion slices and chunks (sweet and red), green, red and yellow peppers, pineapple chunks, green zucchini slices or chunks, cremini mushrooms, yellow squash slices

Grilled Bacon-Wrapped Asparagus 1 lb. asparagus 1 lb. package uncooked bacon, thin sliced Olive oil Balsamic glaze (optional) Salt and pepper to taste

Wash asparagus and trim ends. Place asparagus on tray and drizzle with olive oil. Toss to coat. Wrap 2-3 spears with one slice bacon. Repeat with remaining asparagus and bacon. Heat grill to medium heat then place asparagus bundles on grill and cook 3-4 minutes per side, or until bacon is crispy. During last minute of grilling, brush asparagus bunches with balsamic glaze. Avoid adding glaze too soon or it may burn. Add salt and pepper, to taste.

Simple Grilled Corn

6 ears white or yellow sweet corn Butter and salt to taste Preheat grill to 375 F. Shuck corn and toss on the grill until corn gets a “char” and the kernels are cooked and soft. Remove and immediately roll in butter and salt to taste.

Easy Pomegranate Coleslaw

1/2 head cabbage (about 4 cups) 2 green onions 1 large carrot (or small bag of shredded carrots)

Gently smooth dough into ball on surface sprinkled lightly with Bisquick. Knead 10 times. Roll dough 1/2 inch thick. Cut with floured 3-inch starshaped or round cutter. Place about 1 inch apart on ungreased cookie sheet. Bake 10 to 12 minutes. Stir blueberries into strawberries. Split shortcakes in half. Fill and top with berries and whipped cream. Easier shortcut Replace biscuits with slices of premade pound cake purchased from the grocery bakery (or thawed Sara Lee pound cake from the freezer aisle.) Optional: Place tiny American flags atop each dessert. 

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N E W S F E AT U R E

How to safely handle fireworks during upcoming holidays By Raychel Stewart Signal Staff Writer

long with barbecues and pie, fireworks are considered to be a staple for summer holidays like the Fourth of July, but they can lead to injuries and wildfires if not handled properly. Fireworks cause an average of 1,000 injuries a year across the country, according to Los Angeles County Fire Department officials, and lead to nearly 800 wildfires in California. “The No. 1 safety message we have is to leave fireworks to the professionals,” said Daniel Berlant, chief of wildfire planning and fire engineering and investigations with the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection. “We advise people to go to firework displays — that’s the safest way to celebrate those holidays where fireworks are popular.” Safe and sane fireworks can be an enjoyable way to celebrate holidays, but only if handled properly to prevent injuries and fires. The first step people should take to ensure safe handling of fireworks is to check that it is considered safe and sane, Berlant said. A seal from the State Fire Marshal’s Office would be printed on the firework labeling it as safe and sane. If the firework doesn’t have a seal, it was not approved by the fire marshal’s office, and would be considered illegal. The second step, said Jonathan Matheny, public information officer with the LA County Fire Department said, is to read the directions of the firework. And once it is lit, move away quickly and ensure no one is within 10 feet. To prevent fire, ensure there is a water source nearby, Matheny said, adding that a bucket of water is ideal in order for fireworks to be submerged in water completely. “Make sure there’s a water source nearby,” Matheny said. “The best way to dispose of fireworks is to put them in a bucket of water first, and once they’re drenched, throw them away. Just spraying the fireworks down with a water hose isn’t enough. It needs to be submerged for a certain amount of time to be completely cooled.” Matheny explained that using only a water hose to cool down fireworks can result in one area maintaining a high heat level, and disposing of the firework before being completely cooled can lead to a fire. People should also be aware of any dry brush or structures nearby, keeping fireworks away at a 10- to 20-foot circumference, Berlant said. “The smallest spark can ignite a grass fire that quickly becomes a problem,” he said. Adults should always be present while fireworks are being set off, Berlant said, and children shouldn’t be in possession of any type of firework. He also added pets should be monitored at all times as they might be curious about the firework

SCV Sheriff’s Station Capt. Justin Diez and fire officials have a bit of advice for those thinking about putting on a personal fireworks show in the SCV: Don’t try these at home. PHOTO BY BOBBY BLOCK / THE SIGNAL

Santa Clarita Fireworks

The Spirit of America Fireworks Spectacular is scheduled to begin at approximately 9:15 p.m. on Sunday, July 4, from the launch site, near the corner of Magic Mountain Parkway and Citrus Street.  and go near it while it is lit. In all of L.A. County, fireworks of any kind are considered illegal, even fireworks labeled “safe and sane.” “Some cities allow for safe and sane fireworks, but fireworks of any kind are illegal in unincorporated areas of the county,” said Matheny. “Those violations carry heavy fines of up to $1,000 and a year sentence in county jail.” Matheny added lighting off explosives that can be mistaken as a firework, such as an M-80, would result in a felony charge, since it is more dangerous than a traditional firework and categorized as an explosive. A growing concern has been the number of wildfires which have been ignited through fireworks, especially as the state enters a drought. According to the National Fire Protection Association, three out of five wildfires in the country between 2014

and 2018 were ignited from fireworks, and nine out of 10 fires were ignited outdoors. The import of illegal fireworks into the state has become an issue the department of forestry and fire protection is working to prevent, Berlant said, adding there has been an uptick in the using of illegal fireworks since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic lockdowns. Local officials have called for help from federal agencies with preventing illegal fireworks to enter Los Angeles County, stating as Independence Day approaches, the number of illegal fireworks to enter the state increases. L.A. County Supervisor Kathryn Barger, whose 5th District includes the SCV, sent a letter to the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the United States Customs and Boarder Protection in April to prevent the import of illegal fireworks to the county. “Our office shares the concern of our constituents of the significant fire danger this poses,” Barger said in the letter, also highlighting concerns of wildfires as the state enter a drought. Berlant added the department of forestry and fire protection has taken a zero-tolerance policy on illegal fireworks and has developed a taskforce to prevent the selling and usage of them. “The fines and punishments for using illegal fireworks are severe,” he said. “The best way to celebrate these holidays is to do it legally and safely so no one is hurt. Err on the side of caution.” 

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J U N E 27, 2021

N E W S F E AT U R E

When the Santa Clarita Valley is the canvas By Caleb Lunetta Signal Staff Writer

rt may be everywhere you look for it, as the expression goes, and Santa Clarita has certainly tried to celebrate its artists and arts community when possible. Scattered throughout the SCV, as well as in a number of other SoCal communities, public art installations give residents and families an opportunity to view impressive works of art for free, whether during a cursory glance while driving by or taking the time to stand in front of it and closely examine. “Obviously, we hope the pieces are beautiful or attractive, and mostly they’re often celebrating our culture and … history,” said Phil Lantis, the city of Santa Clarita’s arts director. “But ultimately, art is about starting a conversation, having a discussion about, ‘What do you think they mean by that?’” And much like a museum, just without the price, the city of Santa Clarita, Los Angeles County and other officials have created accessible online “roadmaps” or tours for the public works of art in their given area, allowing even the most novice in the creative arts to know about a piece’s location, history and, if there are any, viewing times.

City of Santa Clarita

“One of the great things about public art is most of the artists working in the public art realm understand that their audience is not necessarily choosing with their feet; they’re not going to a gallery or museum,” Lantis said. “They understand that the communication (with the audience) is different because someone may just be strolling down the street and go, ‘Hey, what’s that about.’” Lantis said the city of Santa Clarita has striven to install pieces throughout the community, but emphasized that their selection process desires to educate people on the difference between public art and decoration. “To me, the biggest differentiation between a public art piece and ‘decoration,’ and there’s absolutely nothing wrong with decoration, but you look at a decoration and that’s the end of

Australian artist Emma Anna stands near her sculpture titled “Imag_ne” at the Valencia Library in Valencia. Her work is just one of many that have been supported by city leadership to help celebrate the arts locally. PHOTO BY DAN WATSON / THE SIGNAL

the story,” said Lantis. “But, usually with public art, that’s just the beginning.” Many people who live in the Santa Clarita have likely seen or heard of the six bear sculptures displayed throughout the city, and who were painted by artist Frank Rock with vibrant colors and pictures depicting Santa Clarita life. However, upon further inquiry, one would learn that each 10 foot long and 5 foot tall bear is painted with a different theme or historical anecdote representative of the culture and history of the local community. Other interesting art installations include the “Birds of Valencia,” an installation flying high over the artificial lake in the Bridgeport Marketplace on Newhall Ranch Road. Free to visit and viewable from the street or from the walking bridges over the water, the sculpture designed by Douwe Bloomberg includes 65 aluminum birds, each with a wingspan over five feet in the air. The project was described as a “unique engineering challenge,” but proven popular amongst residents and visi-

tors alike, according to officials. A piece that if you blinked, you might miss it here in the Santa Clarita Valley, is “California Scape,” a sculpture housed at Fair Oaks Park on the 17000 block of Honey Maple Street. The Ozark light sandstone is designed to reflect the natural landscapes of the community, and a Chinese Elm tree is planted at its center. These are just a few of the installations Lantis says can be found around the community, and he encourages interested residents and even families with young children to get out and experience them in person. For more information about the information and locations for the city of Santa Clarita public art installations, visit their website scpublicart.good barber.app.

College of the Canyons

Since the summer of 2014, the Rockwell Canyon Road campus has been a central hub for local artists wishing to explore various mediums and techniques, with the school housing its own art gallery with free admission to all those wishing to see

their latest exhibit. But in addition to the art gallery, the COC can claim to have the largest collection of permanently installed Simi Dabah sculptures. The L.A.based artist, for the last 40 years, has used industrial scrap metal welded together to create non-representational shapes, some reaching heights of 20-feet-tall, and meant to rust in the sun. “College of the Canyons is proud to have the largest collection of permanently installed Simi Dabah sculptures,” said Eric Harnish, spokesman for the college. “The Valencia campus features 18 pieces, and another four can be found at the Canyon Country campus.” Visitors to campus should first complete a college’s health screening available at https://www.canyons.edu/ administration/pio/notices/health log.php.

Around L.A. County

Similar to Santa Clarita’s public arts tour, the county also has a series of displays for viewing. In addition to showcasing the “5 Up: 5-14-138 San Andreas Break” piece at the Castaic Skate Park, which functions as both an art installation and a quarter-pipe — the county’s website also features and informs about pieces in communities such as Downey, the city of Los Angeles, the Antelope Valley and more. New works are also being forged daily. For instance, Lina Evola, a nationally renowned artist and founder of the Peace Angeles Project, has partnered with the Los Angeles County Sheriff ’s Department to melt down over 2,000 surrendered firearms and weapons. The materials found in the melted down weapons will then be repurposed to create 12, 11-foot Peace Angel monuments throughout Los Angeles. For more information about the county tour, visit lacountyarts.org. For more information about Peace Angeles Project, visit peaceangels.com. 

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N E W S F E AT U R E

Get back into hitting those SCV hiking trails By Caleb Lunetta Signal Staff Writer

he Santa Clarita Valley is a known trails and hiking mecca, according to local experts. With over 11,000 acres of open spaces and more than 100 miles of trails, ranging from extreme elevation climbs to gentle slopes and open meadows, in terms of hiking, the SCV has plenty to offer. And according to the experts, whether you wanted to shed the “Quarantine 15” — a few pounds put on from the confinement — or you’d just like to get outside as we head into the summer months, now’s the time to get into the activity.

What Santa Clarita Has to Offer

“There’s a lot of types of different terrain that people can get out into, and we’ve been very, very busy for a short time because the (Mountains Recreation and Conservation Authority) closed Towsley and people had to find somewhere else to hike,” said Jeff Morrison, the open space and trails administrator for the city of Santa Clarita. “They found a lot of our other open spaces and that has continued.” Morrison that there are entrances sprinkled throughout the outer rim of the entire Santa Clarita Valley “We have areas that are very short, and flat, with beautiful views like the Creek Trail at Elsmere Canyon, in the shade and it’s along the creek — very flat and very easy,” said Morrison. “And then you have, like, The Beast that goes up out of Whitney, the Santa Clara divide, which is really difficult.” “But there’s a lot of short hikes, there’s a lot of long hikes and a little bit of everything out there for people,” he added. As for families, Morrison said the trails and putting kids out there can help, especially in their early years. “It’s great to get them started young, because they can go out and explore,” said Morrison. “There’s a lot of bugs and some small creatures out there for them to look at. We have a lot of people that are used to putting their babies on their backs and they go hiking.” There’s more than hiking that can be done on trails as well, according to Ken Raleigh, chairman of the SCV Trail Users, adding that the paths are open to mountain bikers, hikers, equestrians and trail runners alike. “Santa Clarita has become, I don’t to call it quite a Mecca for mountain biking, there are a lot of opportunities for riding, as well as hiking.” Raleigh said one only needs to look around online to find options, from hills and mountains, to public lands and private lands, to federal and city property. “There’s just trails all over the place, you know,

Stevie, an Australian shepherd, pulls Sydney Cota, center, and Chasen Collins as they start their 5-mile hike in the overflow parking lot at Towsley Canyon Park in Newhall. PHOTO BY DAN WATSON / THE SIGNAL

with hundreds of users every day,” said Raleigh. “It’s a big place.”

Safety

In order to stay safe on the trails, the experts made a few suggestions. “As for getting started, you want to have good solid shoes, hiking shoes, whether they’re tennis shoes or hiking boots,” said Morrison. “And you want to have a hat, and use a lot of sun block because it gets hot out here.” A handful of the local experts interviewed by The Signal emphasized the water portion to the safety requirements. “That’s one of the biggest hazards, that if you don’t have water on you,” said Morrison. “As it gets hotter, people take their dogs out and just about every year we lose a dog to heat exhaustion, because the owners don’t bring water for the dog.” Not only did she emphasize the importance of bringing water, but local trails expert and leader of one of Santa Clarita’s largest hiking clubs, Dianne Erskine-Hellrigel, executive director and president of the Community Hiking Club, also discussed the importance of knowing what to avoid on the trails, especially those things that are living. From rattlesnakes to tarantula hawks to red velvet ants, it’s important to know what to look for and know to avoid it. “I have found when people see a rattlesnake, somebody may start throwing rocks or something at it,” said Erskine-Hellrigel. “That’s the wrong thing to do because you agitate the snake. The

snake really doesn’t want anything to do with you, and if you give it a wide berth, you’re probably really safe if they’re in the middle of the trail.” Erskine-Hellrigel also shared the importance of staying on the trail, and resisting the temptation to forge your own path through the bushes and grass. “If you go off trail, you’re more likely to pick up a lot more stuff,” said Erskine-Hellrigel. “Including snakes hidden in the brush. And one final safety tip according to the experts: Buddy up. “it’s always good to do it with a friend or go to the popular spots where, you know, where if you do get hurt, you know you’re not going to be alone,” said Raleigh.

How to Buddy Up & Learn More

According to the experts, there are a number of opportunities both online and in-person to find people that enjoy the same outdoor activities that you do. Online there are Facebook groups SCV Mountain Bike Group and for hiking there is the Community Hiking Club. To learn more about the trails open to the public, visit hikesantaclarita.com/. “The first thing to do is get out there,” said Erskine-Hellrigel. “Grab a friend and get out there and if you don’t know any trails, join a group, and do a few hikes with them. Then you’ll know the hikes.” 

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J U N E 27, 2021

FROM THE CITY MANAGER

Great music, better company at Concerts in the Park By Ken Striplin Santa Clarita City Manager

he countdown is on — just six more days until Concerts in the Park, presented by Logix Federal Credit Union, return to Central Park! Residents have been waiting anxiously since August 2019 for this landmark Santa Clarita event to once again take over Saturday nights in the summer. We are thrilled that Concerts in the Park is back for 2021, and we are looking forward to yet another fantastic lineup for concertgoers. Kick off the Fourth of July festivities in style on Saturday, July 3, as music from The PettyBreakers fills Central Park. The band is a tribute to Tom Petty and has performed at Concerts in the Park in the past — always bringing crowds to their feet with the style of rock-and-roll that made the original such a legend. There’s nothing better than celebrating our country while listening to “American Girl” and “I Won’t Back Down.” Over the course of the summer, you can also hear great bands playing hits from a variety of genres and eras, including Hollywood U2 (U2 Tribute

— July 10), AbbaFab (ABBA Tribute — July 17), Space Oddity (David Bowie Tribute — July 24) and The Rising (Bruce Springsteen Tribute — July 31). There will be a one-week break in the schedule with no Concerts in the Park event on August 7 before the series resumes. The Lao Tizer Band will play a relaxing contemporary jazz set on August 14, and the series will conclude with The WHO Invasion (The Who Tribute — August 21) and Mick Adams and the Stones (The Rolling Stones Tribute — August 28). All concerts will begin at 7 p.m., but residents can arrive early to get their preferred spot on the grass. To learn more about Concerts in the Park

and see the full lineup and event details, please visit santa-clarita.com/Concerts. Be sure to bring your lawn chairs and blankets, as well as dinner from a local restaurant, so that you and your family can sit back and relax while the music plays. Food trucks will be stationed in Central Park selling dinner and sweet treats if you’d like as well. You can also take advantage of delivery services to have your food brought to you at the park, so you don’t have to miss a second of entertainment. With COVID-19 restrictions lifted and a return to a pre-pandemic way of life, events like Concerts in the Park allow residents to socialize and relieve stress in an outdoor setting. After more than a year of distancing ourselves from others, it will be a welcome sight to see grandparents, parents, children, extended family, friends and neighbors together once more enjoying their time at Central Park.

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. 

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FOOD

ummer is the time to relax, refresh and indulge in sweet and heavenly treats. While you’re lounging poolside and watching the kids play, enjoy a cool, creamy and absolutely divine dessert that’s perfect on a hot day. This luscious Coconut Key Lime Cream Pie has a smooth texture with toasted shredded coconut on top. It’s sweet, but not too sweet, and will leave your taste buds wanting more as soon as you take your first bite. Fresh out of the refrigerator, it’s ideal for everyone to share on those days when it’s just too warm outside to not have a chilled snack. Also topped with lime zest and maraschino cherries, visually this pie is a winner with fun pops of color that will leave your mouth watering. To make this cool, creamy creation, add vanilla wafers to a blender to make crumbs. Add melted butter and blend. Add crumb mixture to the bottom of a pie pan and press against the sides. Refrigerate to make crust. In another large bowl, beat cream cheese, condensed milk and coconut extract. In a different large bowl, beat whipping cream until it starts to thicken. Add powdered sugar and lime juice. Reserve 1 cup of the whipped topping. Add lime juice, coconut flakes and

cream pie and a cool drink

the reserved whipped topping to the cream cheese mixture then stir to combine. Add cream cheese mixture to the pie crust and smooth it out. Top with whipped topping then garnish with toasted coconut, lime zest and maraschino cherries. It’s the perfect pie to enjoy whether you’re outside enjoying some sunshine or inside, taking a break from the summer fun. After being chilled, all of the flavors combine to leave you with a delicious, one of a kind treat. Find more summer recipes at Culinary.net. f you made this recipe at home, use #MyCulinaryCon nection on your favorite social network to share your work.

Coconut Key Lime Cream Pie

Servings: 6-8 1 package (11 ounces) vanilla wafers 1/3 cup butter, melted 2 cups heavy whipping cream 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar 1/2 cup Key lime juice, divided 1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese, softened 1 can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk 1 teaspoon coconut extract 1 cup shredded coconut 1/4 cup toasted shredded coconut lime zest maraschino cherries

In blender, pulse vanilla wafers into crumbs. Add melted butter and pulse until combined. Press crumbs into bottom and up sides of greased 9 1/2inch deep-dish pie plate. Refrigerate 30 minutes. In large bowl, beat whipping cream until it thickens. Add confectioners’ sugar and 1 tablespoon lime juice; beat until stiff peaks form. Remove 1 cup; set aside. In separate large bowl, beat cream

cheese until smooth. Add sweetened condensed milk and coconut extract; beat until blended. Add remaining lime juice and shredded coconut; stir until combined. Add reserved whipped cream. Stir until combined. Pour into crust. Refrigerate 4 hours. Before serving, garnish with toasted coconut, lime zest and maraschino cherries. (Family Features) 

Sipping on summertime sweets

hen it’s summertime and you crave something cold and fruity, try using your favorite frozen fruit for a refreshing drink.

For example, strawberries with frozen pink lemonade concentrate combine to make a spritzer recipe worth sharing. This fizzy Strawberry Spritzer can delight your taste buds and keep you quenched while enjoying the summer sun.

Strawberry Spritzer Recipe adapted from Taste of Home 1 package (10 ounces) frozen sliced strawberries, sweetened and thawed 2 liters lemon-lime soda, chilled 1 can (12 ounces) frozen pink lemonade concentrate, thawed In blender, process strawberries until blended thoroughly. Pour strawberries into large pitcher; stir in soda and pink lemonade. Serve immediately. Substitution Ginger ale may be used in place of soda. (Family Features) 

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J U N E 27, 2021

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

Honoring the musical group Sparks, another Pixar gem ‘Luca’

By Richard Roeper Signal Contributing Writer



1/2 Disney-Pixar presents a film directed by Enrico Casarosa and written by Jesse Andrews and Mike Jones. Rated PG. Disney+

‘The Sparks Brothers’

 (out of four)

Focus Features presents a documentary directed by Edgar Wright. Rated R (for language).

rom the Byrds to Cheap Trick to Green Day to the Killers to My Chemical Romance, there’s a long tradition of American rock and pop bands that often sound quite British — and perhaps the most British-sounding American group of all is Sparks. You know: Sparks! The enigmatic duo that was worshipped by fans in Germany, won over music aficionados in Great Britain, became a pretty big deal in Australia — and has become something of a cult legend in their homeland of America. They’ve been almost famous for a half-century now, ever since they burst on the scene in the mid-1960s with their dreamy, edgy, complex and grand art-pop sound and an arresting stage presence that included a teen idol-handsome lead singer with a beautiful voice, and a sideman/keyboardist who looked like he recently escaped from a place with padded walls and no sharp objects allowed. Sparks is one of the most influential and beloved acts in modern music history, yet never achieved the success and fame many thought the band deserved. Director Edgar Wright (“Shaun of the Dead,” “Baby Driver”), who is of course British, aims to rectify that with “The Sparks Brothers,” a sprawling and comprehensive and cheeky film that documents the rise and fall and rise again and fall again and the leveling out and all the other peaks and valleys the group has experienced over the last 50 years. Sparks has had a number of band members through the years, but it’s essentially a duo consisting of brothers Ron and Russell Mael, who grew up in California and created a few waves with their unique sound in the late 1960s but didn’t really make a dent on the charts until they moved to Great Britain in the 1970s. Lead singer Russell looked like a glam star with his poofy hair and snazzy out-

PHOTO COURTESY IMDB

fits, while Ron dressed like the dad in a 1950s sitcom and had slicked-back hair, a glassy-eyed look and an alarming, “toothbrush” style mustache reminiscent of Charlie Chaplin or, unfortunately, Hitler. (A French TV station banned the group because of Ron’s mustache.) They were … different. In a great way. “The Sparks Brothers” features a treasure trove of concert footage and TV appearances, as well as tributes from musicians who were influenced by them, including Todd Rundgren, Beck, Flea and members of Duran Duran. We also hear from fans such as Patton Oswalt, Fred Armisen and Jason Schwartzman — and most interestingly, we catch up with the Mael brothers in present day. They’re in their 70s and they’re as charming and self-deprecating and lovely as they’ve always been, and they’re still making music. (As one observer notes, if they had been a huge success, they probably would have broken up 30 years ago and wouldn’t be talking to each other.) In fact, Sparks is on the verge of what could be its biggest mainstream achievement ever. Ron and Russell wrote the story, music and lyrics for the upcoming musical film “Annette,” which stars Adam Driver and Marion Cotillard and will be the opening-night feature at the 2021 Cannes Film Festival. Looks like the boys are getting the encore they deserve.

hether it’s Sully and Mike in “Monsters Inc.,” the lively residents of the Land of the Dead in “Coco” or Remy in “Ratatouille,” the magic-makers at Pixar love to make movies featuring entities we humans normally find frightening or repulsive but which are actually lovable and funny and brave and endearing once we get to know them. The formula is invoked to great effect once again in the breezy and sweet and wonderfully colorful “Luca,” in which the creatures in question are sea monsters that are anything but monstrous. Looking like a hand-drawn fairytale book come to animated life, “Luca” has a captivating visual style with every detail popping, whether it’s the facial movements of the characters, the sun-dappled shadings of the buildings and the terrain, the shining sea or a very busy underwater world. Our story begins with a scene reminiscent of the classic sequence in “Jaws” when the two overmatched fishermen try to use a pot roast to lure the mighty shark into their trap, to comedic and almost tragic results. In “Luca,” as “Un bacio a mezzanote” by Quartetto Centra sets the tone for an adventure set on the Italian Riviera in the mid-20th century, two local fishermen in the dead of night are venturing dangerously close to an area populated by sea monsters, at least according to local lore. Sure enough, they encounter just such a slippery and lightning-fast creature, who briefly gets entangled in their net before escaping. “What a monster!” exclaims one of the fishermen. “Horrifying!” Cut to our first good look at this “horrifying” monster: an adolescent named Luca (voiced by Jacob Tremblay) who has lime-green skin/scales, royal blue “hair,” bright and expressive eyes — and yup, there’s a swishing tail as well — and he’s adorable in an offbeat way, like so many other Pixar creations. We quickly see these

sea monsters aren’t monsters at all, but a close-knit community of families who live in fear of those frightening beings in the boats that bob along the surface, using their nets and spears to capture various fishies. The fantastic duo of Maya Rudolph and Jim Gaffigan are perfectly voicecast as Luca’s parents, Daniela and Lorenzo, who love their 13-year-old son and are perhaps overprotective as they’re concerned Luca’s wanderlust will get him into trouble and they’ll never see him again. They’re not wrong. Luca is deeply curious about the world above the sea, and he follows his new friend Alberto (Jack Dylan Grazer) to the shore — and when the two young sea monsters set foot on the beach, they’re transformed into real boys! Luca and Alberto eventually make their way into the local village — there’s an exhilarating scene where they keep leaping in and out of the water, transforming again and again and again — and though there’s a fountain in the square depicting a mighty hunter harpooning a sea monster, they find the place to be filled with wondrous sights and interesting humans of all shapes and sizes. They quickly set about achieving their dream of somehow acquiring a Vespa so they can travel everywhere without a care in the world. What could possibly go wrong? As long as the townsfolk don’t discover their true identities, they’ll be just fine. “Just don’t get wet!” says Alberto. “Luca” is primarily about the friendship between two boys, whether they’re in human or sea monster form, and how a seemingly unbreakable bond can be tested over the course of a summer filled with adventures and misunderstandings and conflicting desires about the future. It’s “Stand by Me” by the sea. Director Enrico Casarosa is making his feature-length debut here, and he and the vast Pixar animation army have delivered a gorgeous and lovely coming-of-age fantasy with plenty of slapstick laughs, the obligatory heartwarming family moments and a friendship for the ages. 

J U N E 27, 2021

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 1 1

CalDRE #01030351

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J U N E 27, 2021

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

Searching for a rainbow — then look no further

he Marshall Tucker Band is coming to Santa Clarita. Whenever you drop that proverbial quarter into the virtual jukebox of songs that always manage to reach down and touch your soul the exact moment you cue them up, you inevitably find certain artists have a deeper resonance than others when it comes to providing the soundtrack that mirrors the highs and lows of your own life. The Marshall Tucker Band is one such group that continues to have a profound level of impact on successive generations of listeners

who’ve been searchin’ for a rainbow and found it perfectly represented by this tried-and-true Southern institution for over five decades. The Marshall Tucker Band continues to be played on Classic Rock and Country radio, and they have never stopped touring. With hit singles like “Heard It In A Love Song,” “Fire On The Mountain,” “Can’t You See,” and “Take The Highway,” MTB earned seven gold and three platinum albums, and continues to delight audiences from coast to coast! CMT (Country Music Television) named the MTB’s “Can’t You See” the #4 Greatest Southern

Rock Song. The MTB’s debut album, The Marshall Tucker Band, reigns as Gibson Guitar’s #5 Greatest Southern Rock Album. UltimateClassicRock. com crowned the MTB’s “Can’t You See” as the #1 Southern Rock Song and in 2013, GRAMMY® Magazine named the group’s logo as one of the most distinctive and iconic brands in music. See the Marshall Tucker Band live and in person at The Canyon Santa Clarita on July 30. Tickets available at Ticketmaster.com 

J U N E 27, 2021

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 1 3

Senior Living

is the good life

How exercise can help you live longer

here are many reasons to get in shape. Weight loss is a prime motivator, as is reversing a negative health effect, such as high cholesterol or increased diabetes risk. Routine exercise also can improve life expectancy. WebMD says exercise keeps the body and brain healthy. That’s why exercise should be an important component of daily life no matter one’s age. Research published in the journal Immune Aging found that how people age is 75% lifestyle and only 25% genetics, which underscores the importance of the lifestyle choices people make.

Cardiorespiratory fitness

Many health experts say that cardiorespiratory fitness may be just as valuable a metric to determine overall health as blood pressure and lipid levels. People with a high aerobic capacity can deliver oxygen to tissues and cells efficiently to fuel exercise, according to data published in 2014 in the journal Aging & Disease. In a study involving 11,335 women, researchers compared V02 max, also

vival among the elderly. One in three adults aged 50 and over dies within 12 months of suffering a hip fracture, and older adults have a five- to eighttimes greater risk of dying within three months following a hip fracture. Building muscle strength, balance and bone density through exercise can reduce falls and frailty, helping to prevent fracture-related health risks.

Addresses sarcopenia

known as aerobic capacity, in women with mortality data. Women who were fit from a cardiovascular perspective had a lower death rate from all causes, irrespective of the women’s weight.

just its flight or fight response accordingly, and help them cope with mildly stressful situations. While engaged in exercise, people may forget about their problems as they are focused on the activity at hand.

Manage stress and mood

Improve bone health

Exercise has direct stress-busting benefits that can promote longevity. The Mayo Clinic says physical activity can increase the production of endorphins, which are the body’s feelgood neurotransmitters. In addition, exercise can imitate the effects of stress, helping the body ad-

Strength training and physical activity can stave off the effects of frailty and osteoporosis, which affects bone strength. A study published in the Journal of Internal Medicine in 2017 found that hip fractures are associated with diminished quality of life and sur-

The health and wellness resource Healthline defines sarcopenia as the loss of muscle mass specifically related to aging. Doctors once considered this muscle loss inevitable, and it can affect stamina and lead to weakness. However, new indications suggest that exercise is the main treatment regimen for sarcopenia, particularly resistance training. This is designed to improve muscle strength and help balance hormone levels by turning protein into energy for older adults. These are just some of the ways exercise can help older adults live longer, healthier lives. (MC) 

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SENIORLIVING

COMFORT KEEPERS: In-Home Care

omfort Keepers is the premier provider of In-Home Care and is a licensed Home Care Organization locally owned and operated by Myles McNamara, Certified Senior Advisor. Comfort Keepers’ goal is to enable seniors to remain in the privacy and comfort of their own home for as long as possible. Often, all that is needed is a helping hand with daily tasks, including but not limited to, medication reminders, assistance with bathing/showering, meal preparation, light housekeeping, laundry, transportation (beauty salon, doctors, etc.), grocery shopping, companionship, grooming guidance, recreational activities, and more. We are also instrumental in lowering the stress for family members who are juggling their own busy lives and work schedules around attending to a loved one’s needs. Our service pro-

vides peace of mind knowing these needs and daily activities are being taken care of. It will allow quality time to be spent with loved ones, rather than attending to chores. If falling is a concern, just knowing someone is with them can make all the difference. Our Caregivers are also specifically trained for Alzheimer’s and Dementia care. Although our clients are primarily Seniors, our services are available for anyone over the age of 18 experiencing difficulties with daily tasks because of illness or injury. Offering In-Home Care for Seniors, and anyone 18 and older recovering from illness or injury. Servicing the Santa Clarita and San Fernando Valleys, with office in Santa Clarita and Encino. Myles McNamara, owner of Comfort Keepers In-Home Care, is a Certified Senior Advisor. He can be reached at (661) 287-4200. 

The Document People

uestions and answers from Jeff McCarty, owner of The Document People of Santa Clarita.

Jeff, what prompted you to join The Document People? Well, the services that we can now offer seemed like the perfect complement to my existing financial planning and investment services, so it was a perfect fit so to speak. One of the most popular questions among our readers is: What is the difference between a will and a living trust? Can you enlighten us? Sure, like I tell my customers all the time, having a Will is better than having nothing at all, but that still forces your heirs to go through the long, expensive and — allow me — tedious process of a probate. With a properly funded living trust the distribution of the estate can happen quickly and inexpensively. What are the drawbacks of a liv-

ing trust? Well, it’s that one thing in life that only has positives! There are no yearly fees to maintain it, no taxes to pay to have one in place, and you can always change it with an amendment. Speaking of, can you amend any trust or only the ones that were drafted by The Document People? We can certainly amend any trust, no matter who drafted originally. Life changes, so it’s pretty common to update your trust or power of attorneys when the situation calls for it. By the way, we also offer Irrevocable Trusts and Special Needs Trust, which are all drafted by our attorney. Notary is included! The Document People are located at 27225 Camp Plenty Rd. Suite 5. For more information, call (661) 523-3627 or visit www.Document People.net. 

J U N E 27, 2021

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 1 5

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J U N E 27, 2021

SENIORLIVING

Molly Maid Protects and Sanitizes Your Home

any of the employees with Molly Maid of Santa Clarita have been with the company for over 20 years, and a lot of clients feel their housecleaners are part of their families. John’s clients know they can depend on and trust everyone at Molly Maid and can attest to the exceptional cleaning services they provide. John’s biggest inspiration for his job are his employees. They show up to work every day and clean up to four houses in an 8-hour work day. Day in and day out, week after week, John’s team cleans houses throughout the Santa Clarita Valley utilizing the best products available. Cleaning isn’t always valued as much as it should be, and John is thankful for his employees who put cleanliness and healthiness above everything else while doing their jobs. When COVID-19 spread to the United States, John and the rest of the staff at Molly Maid Santa Clarita knew they had to implement strict policies to safeguard their clients and the employees at Molly Maid. Before every cleaner goes to work, their temperatures are taken and masks and gloves are always worn while cleaning clients’ homes. During this incredibly challenging time, everyone

at Molly Maid of Santa Clarita wants to bring peace of mind to people who require house cleaning services. John has resided in LA County for 23 years and absolutely loves helping the residents of Santa Clarita. He loves what his company stands for and enjoys the time spent with his clients. John and the rest of the employees at Molly Maid of Santa Clarita would like to warn readers that if

they hire Molly Maid, they will become dependent on their amazing, reliable, and unparalleled cleaning services. If you mention this article, you will receive $50 off your first cleaning. See how different your home can be after hiring Molly Maid of Santa Clarita. Call (661) 298-1800 to schedule your cleaning today! 

J U N E 27, 2021

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 1 7

 Kellar Davis

Inc.

A Professional Real Estate Corporation Kellar-Davis, Inc. Cal BRE #01290507 19310 Avenue of the Oaks Newhall, CA 91321

Entry area to 2 bedroom 2 bath unit with 1 car garage

The Friendly Valley Country Club is an active community for SENIORS 55+. We are located a few miles from the San Fernando Valley and about 35 miles from Los Angeles. The community is guard gated and patrolled 24/7 and features a 9 hole executive course and an 18 hole pitch and putt.

Monday thru Friday 10 am – 4 pm Saturday & Sunday 12 pm – 4 pm Kellar-Davis is your INSIDE source for all things Friendly Valley! Ellie Lacy & Jackie Kovacs are your Friendly Valley Specialists

2 bedroom – 2 bath unit with one car garage

There is a lawn bowling court, picnic areas with BBQs, a year-round heated pool and a spa. There are many club and card rooms as well as a billiard room. You can be as active as you want or just relax and enjoy your home. There is an RV parking lot

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and a tram that goes to area market places. Ellie Lacy or Jackie Kovacs will be happy to give you a tour of this terrific community and show you the homes that are currently for sale.

2 bedroom – 2 bath unit with 2 car garage

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SENIORLIVING

Friendly Valley is LA’s Best Kept Secret

T Providence Holy Cross Medical Center

Among the Nation’s BEST Hospitals

he wonderful SENIOR Country Club community of Friendly Valley is Los Angeles county’s best kept secret. Guard gated and patrolled twenty-four hours a day it offers a sense of security in this crazy world we are living in. This community has over 1300 units with something to fit every budget starting in the $200,000 range to $600,000. There are carport units, one car and two car garage properties. Golfers and RVer’s are delighted to find two golf courses and a vast RV storage area. The HOA fees vary with each association and include the use of all the usual country club amenities as well as use of the golf course. Along with that basic cable TV and internet are part of the package, gardening and exterior maintenance too.

Jackie Kovacs

Ellie Lacy

There are many clubs and groups, meeting places, a gym and lawn bowling court. So much to do or just relax and watch the wildlife from your patio. Have A Great Day! Ellie Lacy Realtor/Associate Kellar-Davis, Inc. 19310 Avenue of the Oaks Newhall, CA. 91321 CalBRE #0408471 (661)-341-6226 ellielacy@yahoo.com 

Limited Time Offer!

Providence Holy Cross Medical Center has been serving the North San Fernando and Santa Clarita communities since 1961 and has maintained a reputation for clinical excellence and award-winning care. Our services include distinguished care in neurosciences, cancer, orthopedics, maternity, and one of the busiest emergency and trauma programs in Los Angeles County. Providence Holy Cross has been recognized as one of America’s 50 Best Hospitals™ by Healthgrades and as a Distinguished Hospital for Clinical Excellence™ 8 years in a row.

Call us to learn about our Move-In Special! (661) 877-4022

For more information on our award-winning care or for a physician referral, call 1-888-HEALING (432-5464) or visit providence.org/holycross.

15031 Rinaldi Street Mission Hills, CA 91345

Lic # 197607592

24305 W. Lyons Ave | Newhall, CA 91321 | PacificaSeniorLivingSantaClarita.com

J U N E 27, 2021

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 1 9

SENIORLIVING

Henry Mayo is Santa Clarita’s Primary Healthcare Provider

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any of us are spending time trying to determine what activities are safe and which ones should be avoided. Taking care of your health should never be delayed. It is our privilege to be the primary healthcare provider in the Santa Clarita Valley, and as such we think it’s important to share with you some of the steps we are taking to keep patients safe at Henry Mayo Newhall Hospital. Every patient who visits our Emergency Department has their temperature taken and is asked a series of COVID-19 screening questions before entering. Any patient who has a fever or other risk factors is isolated from other patients. All of our COVID-19 patients in the hospital are cared for in a separate, isolated unit. Patients who have surgeries at Henry Mayo are tested for COVID-19 and are asked a series of screening questions three to five days before their surgeries. Patients who test positive for COVID-19 have their surgeries delayed until the virus has cleared. On the day patients arrive for their surgeries their temperatures are taken. Every patient who comes to us for routine or ongoing care, such as an annual mammogram or a physical therapy appointment, is screened by telephone before their visit, and their temperatures are taken when they arrive for their appointments. We are eager to welcome visitors back to Henry Mayo, but for everyone’s safety our visitor policy remains very limited. For our patients, their healthcare teams facilitate communi-

Find out how The Whisper learning hearing system is different than any other hearing technology on the market. It’s all about the Brain.

cation with their families via phone calls or video chat. All employees, and the limited number of visitors we allow, have their temperatures taken upon arrival. Extra cleaning, such as thoroughly wiping down all surfaces, and cleaning all waiting areas frequently, is done at every Henry Mayo location. Finally, Henry Mayo is practicing “universal masking,” which means everyone in the hospital is required to wear masks at all times. We also want to be a great resource to our community. You can find more information on COVID 19 at henrymayo.com/community/coronavirus/, and you may e-mail us any time at covidinfo@henrymayo.com. We have been serving the Santa Clarita community for 45 years. Most of us who work at Henry Mayo live in the Santa Clarita Valley. We are your friends and neighbors. We want you to know that YOU ARE SAFE IN OUR CARE. To learn more, go to henrymayo.com/care.henry mayo Many of us are spending time trying to determine what activities are safe and which ones should be avoided. Taking care of your health should never be delayed. It is our privilege to be the primary healthcare provider in the Santa Clarita Valley, and as such we think it’s important to share with you some of the steps we are taking to keep patients safe at Henry Mayo Newhall Hospital. Every patient who visits our Emergency Department has their temperature taken and is asked a series of COVID-19 screening questions before entering. Any patient who has See HENRY MAYO, page 22

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SENIORLIVING

Providence Holy Cross Medical Center—

Recognized as one of Healthgrades 2021 America’s 50 Best Hospitals

arly in the year, Providence Holy Cross Medical Center announced that it has achieved the Healthgrades 2021 America’s 50 Best Hospitals Award™, placing Providence Holy Cross in the top one percent of nearly 4,500 hospitals assessed nationwide for its commitment to providing superior clinical performance as measured by Healthgrades, the leading resource that connects consumers, physicians and health systems. “We’re very proud of these distinctions as they validate efforts across our hospital to improve quality and safety, more importantly, they are the result of excellent care for our patients,” said Bernie Klein, MD, Chief Executive for Providence Holy Cross Medical Center. “Our physicians, clinicians and caregivers across the hospital work as a team to continuously raise the bar on quality care.” Healthgrades, a top consumer ratings company, ranked hospitals nationwide for overall clinical excellence across a broad spectrum of care. This award recognizes hospitals that consistently deliver outstanding clinical outcomes in key service areas. Patients treated in hospitals that received

Among the top one percent of U.S. hospitals for overall clinical excellence

one or more of these clinical distinctions have a significantly lower risk of dying or experiencing a complication while in the hospital than if they were treated in a hospital that did not.

To learn more about how Healthgrades determines award recipients, and for more information on Healthgrades Quality Solutions, please visit www.healthgrades.com/quality.

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Choose the medical group voted best by Signal readers for 12 years in a row. What makes a medical group the best? It’s not just online scheduling and bill payments (though we do offer that). It’s not being able to reach someone in the middle of the night (we have you covered there, too). You want a doctor who knows that there’s no such thing as a “routine procedure.” You want a doctor who listens. You want a doctor you can trust. We’re proud to be those doctors, caring for you since 1923. And thanks to our affiliation with Providence, chosing a Facey doctor means a seamless experience at our clinics and the area’s top-rated hospitals. If you haven’t already, choose a Facey doctor today and see for yourself why Daily News readers have voted us the best medical group since 2009. For a list of the health plans we currently accept, give us a call or visit our website at: facey.com/insurance

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Facey Medical Group doesn’t sell health insurance but choosing a Facey doctor for your care is easy. We accept most HMO, PPO, Medicare and Medicare Advantage health plans. Ask your insurance company how you can switch today. For a list of the health plans we currently contract with, visit our website at facey.com/insurance or call 1-855-359-6323.

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J U N E 27, 2021

SENIORLIVING

Audiology Associates is Hearing Healthcare Excellence!

udiology Associates in Santa Clarita is dedicated to helping people of all ages with their hearing needs, from babies to those in their 100s. Serving the Santa Clarita, San Fernando, and Antelope valleys and several outlying areas, the company is owned by Kevin Bolder, Au.D. (Doctor of Audiology). Dr. Bolder was a managing audiologist in a busy practice in the San Fernando Valley for 12 years before joining Audiology Associates in 2011 and assuming ownership of the practice in 2018. Also on staff is John Davis, Au.D, who along with Dr Bolder is a Doctor of Audiology. A Doctor of Audiology is a highly educated healthcare professional who is skilled in providing diagnostic, rehabilitative, and other services associated with hearing, balance, and tinnitus management. Dr. Bolder and his staff are proud

HENRY MAYO

Continued from page 19

a fever or other risk factors is isolated from other patients. All of our COVID-19 patients in the hospital are cared for in a separate, isolated unit. Patients who have surgeries at Henry Mayo are tested for COVID-19 and are asked a series of screening questions three to five days before their surgeries. Patients who test positive for COVID-19 have their surgeries delayed until the virus has cleared. On the day patients arrive for their surgeries their temperatures are taken. Every patient who comes to us for routine or ongoing care, such as an annual mammogram or a physical therapy appointment, is screened by telephone before their visit, and their temperatures are taken when they arrive for their appointments. We are eager to welcome visitors back to Henry Mayo, but for everyone’s safety our visitor policy remains very limited. For our patients, their healthcare teams facilitate communication with their families via phone

to assist patients with a variety of hearing healthcare needs. Their services include hearing evaluations, fitting hearing aids, offering solutions for tinnitus management, evaluations for cochlear implant candidacy, programming of cochlear implants, and most importantly providing answers to patient’s questions about their hearing and hearing devices. Over the years, Audiology Associates has won numerous awards, including The Signal’s “Best Of ” award every year since 2009. “We take great pride in these accolades and invite you to experience what makes us special and the audiology office of choice when it comes to solutions for your hearing,” Dr. Bolder said. “The staff at Audiology Associates looks forward to helping you with your hearing healthcare needs.” For more information, call (661) 284-1900 or visit www.Audiology Associates.net. 

calls or video chat. All employees, and the limited number of visitors we allow, have their temperatures taken upon arrival. Extra cleaning, such as thoroughly wiping down all surfaces, and cleaning all waiting areas frequently, is done at every Henry Mayo location. Finally, Henry Mayo is practicing “universal masking,” which means everyone in the hospital is required to wear masks at all times. We also want to be a great resource to our community. You can find more information on COVID 19 at henrymayo.com/community/coronavirus/, and you may e-mail us any time at covidinfo@henrymayo.com. We have been serving the Santa Clarita community for 45 years. Most of us who work at Henry Mayo live in the Santa Clarita Valley. We are your friends and neighbors. We want you to know that YOU ARE SAFE IN OUR CARE. To learn more, go to henrymayo. com/care. 

J U N E 27, 2021

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 2 3

HOME&GARDEN

A few simple, sustainable backyard improvements

ne in three consumers say they have increased their efforts to incorporate environmentally friendly practices, and 70% prefer to purchase eco-friendly products, according to a recent Trusted Media Brands survey. Some of the easiest first steps toward a more sustainable lifestyle can be taken right in your own backyard. Create an outdoor oasis with these simple and sustainable tips — minimal green thumb required. Save time — and water — with low-maintenance landscaping. Plant the seed for a hassle-free backyard by planting perennials or shrubs, which require minimal upkeep. Support your local environment by choosing native plants, as they typically require less watering, fertilizer and pesticides, and are beneficial to pollinators. Plus, native plants can store excess carbon dioxide for improved air quality. Collect and reuse rainwater. Conserving rainwater is a simple way to make your outdoor space more sustainable. Install a reusable water drum in your yard below your gutter spouts to collect water when it rains. Once full, use the rainwater to water plants or clean exterior surfaces like decking, siding and outdoor furniture. Choose energy-efficient LED lighting. Replace outdated, energy-drain-

ing deck and landscape lighting with energy-efficient or solar-powered outdoor lights. LED lights are extremely long-lasting, easy to install and use significantly less energy compared to more commonly used incandescent lights. Not only can you enjoy your yard long after the sun goes down, but you can feel good knowing you are making a sustainable choice. Grow “up.” A vertical garden can be an attractive, artful addition to any yard or deck, freeing up valuable ground in small spaces without compromising plush greenery. To start, build a frame against a wall or fence, or plant around an existing structure like a pergola or latticework — all of which work great for climbing plants such as vines, wisteria, honeysuckle and ivy. Use wood-alternative decking. Among the greenest products available for the home is composite decking, such as Trex, which is manufactured from more than 95% recycled materials. Unlike wood, composite decking resists fading, staining, scratching and mold, and needs only an occasional soap-and-water cleaning. Since composite decking never needs to be stripped, stained or painted, no environmentally harmful chemicals are required. For green bonus points, take items such as plastic grocery bags and newspaper sleeves to one of the many Nex-

A vertical garden can be an attractive, artful addition to any yard or deck, freeing up valuable ground in small spaces without compromising plush greenery.

Trex plastic film recycling drop-off locations nationwide. Instead of ending up in landfills, these polyethylene plastic films can be repurposed into high-performance composite decking.

These easy upgrades will not only benefit the planet but also create an outdoor space that will leave your neighbors green with envy. (BPT) 

Ridgeline Home

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J U N E 27, 2021

HOME&GARDEN

Tips before deciding to do a do-it-yourself demolition

ome improvement projects can range from relatively inexpensive undertakings to complex endeavors that cost homeowners thousands of dollars. In an effort to make expensive projects more affordable, homeowners may look for ways to pitch in, and do-it-yourself demolition is a common way to cut costs. Due to geographical fluctuations in price as well as the scale of a project, it’s hard to pinpoint just how much homeowners can save by doing demolition work themselves. HomeAdvisor estimates that the average small interior demolition project costs just over $3,000, though more significant demolition projects can cost considerably more than that. Given the cost, it’s no surprise that so many homeowners volunteer to do demolition on their own. Though it’s possible to do so safely, homeowners can take steps to determine if it’s in their best interest to take on a DIY demolition or leave it to the professionals. Conduct a cost analysis Demolition projects seem simple, but they often require the use of equipment most homeowners don’t have on hand. Rentals can be considered in such instances, but the cost of renting equipment can reduce the

amount of money homeowners are saving by going it alone. Homeowners may be able to pull up vinyl or tile flooring on their own, but not all floors are installed the same. Some may have been glued more effectively than others, making it hard and/or time-consuming to pull them up by hand. A cost analysis comparing the contractors’ demolition cost estimate and the cost of DIY, complete with equipment rental projections, can give a more accurate picture of how much money homeowners will save by going it alone. If the savings of DIY are negligible, homeowners should probably let the contractor handle the demo. Speak with your contractor Prior to saying they’ll do the demo work on their own, homeowners should speak with their contractors to get an accurate idea of what the project will entail. Demolition projects may seem simple enough, but contractors can illustrate the correct way to do things so as to minimize potentially costly damage. Some contractors may offer to help homeowners start the demo project and then leave them to their own devices once they get a knack for what to do. Once homeowners see what it will take, they can then decide if DIY is best for them.

Enlist help No DIY demo should ever be done alone. The risk for accident and injury is simply too great for homeowners to go it alone. Homeowners who can’t enlist some volunteers to pitch in should leave the job to the professionals. DIY demolition can save homeowners a lot of money. But such projects are not necessarily as simple as they seem. Homeowners should take steps to see exactly what they’re getting into before they volunteer to take on demo duty. (MC) 

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S U N D AYS I G N A L · 2 5

K I D S & FA M I LY

Donna’s Day: Creative Family Fun

Strawberry Shortcake for Independence Day By Donna Erickson Signal Contributing Writer

weet, fragrant local strawberries are plentiful right now, just in time for making strawberry shortcake, a classic summer treat that can star on your Fourth of July dessert table. There’s really nothing quite like the taste of homemade shortcake, and in this recipe the hint of orange zest makes it extra bright. Get your preteens and teens involved in the fun preparation -—while one child works with the dough, another can prepare the strawberries.

Strawberry Shortcake

6-8 cups fresh strawberries, hulled Juice from one orange 3 tablespoons sugar, plus 2 tablespoons for the berries 2 cups self-rising flour 1/8 teaspoon salt

1/2 cup (1 stick) cold unsalted butter, cut into pieces 2 teaspoons orange zest 3/4 cup milk 1 tablespoon half-and-half for brushing 2 1/2 cups whipped cream

3. Drop dough in 8 equal mounds onto tbaking sheet. Lightly pat into rounds. Brush with half-andhalf.

Berries

To Serve

Slice berries in a bowl and combine with orange juice and 2 tablespoons of the sugar. Set aside at room temperature.

Shortcakes

1. Preheat oven to 400 F and place rack in middle position. Grease or line a baking sheet with parchment paper. 2. Whisk together flour, 3 tablespoons sugar and salt in a large bowl. Add cold butter pieces and orange zest; mix with a pastry blender or your fingers until it resembles cornmeal. Stir in milk until just combined. Do not overmix.

4. Bake 15 to 20 minutes, or until golden. Cool on wire rack. Split each shortcake in half with a serrated knife and set bottoms on serving plates. Spoon prepared strawberries and juices on each one. Top with dollop of fluffy whipped cream. Cap with the top of shortcake. Serve immediately. Makes 8 servings.

Fourth of July

Serve shortcake, strawberries, blueberries, whipped cream, ice cream and nonfat frozen yogurt buffet-style to let everyone assemble their own according to taste. Top with paper cutouts of “Old Glory,” a nod to both the all-American celebration and to this “glory-ous” dessert. Donna Erickson’s award-winning se-

ries “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 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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SOLUTIONS

PUZZLES

J U N E 27, 2021

CROSSWORD TIME

J U N E 27, 2021

Opinion

S U N D AY S I G N A L · 2 7

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

Intelligence Is in the Eye of the Beholder Have you ever noticed how a person’s intelligence is directly proportional to the amount they agree with you? All kidding aside, when a speaker or a writer shares our personal beliefs we normally accept almost anything they say or write without question. And the other amusing and sometimes scary thing about we humans is that, when it comes to politics, this human trait expands to astronomical proportions and any person not sharing our personal political views is not just expressing a different opinion, they are the spawn of the devil that must be silenced by any means possible, lest they cause the masses to be corrupted into sharing their views. We are in an age now where this is becoming so prevalent and even accepted that it’s getting scary. The First Amendment to the U.S. Constitution wasn’t designed or even needed to protect popular speech that the majority of people agreed with. It was designed to protect exactly the opposite. I would suggest everyone get a copy of the film “1984” and watch it at least once a month. Rick Barker Valencia

Why People Take Drugs I just finished reading Jonathan Kraut’s article (June 8) where he proposes a “real solution” to our drug crisis. Mr. Kraut’s delivery reminded me very much of the late Harry J. Anslinger, who served as the first commissioner of the U.S. Treasury Department’s Federal Bureau of Narcotics during the presidencies of Hoover, Roosevelt, Truman, Eisenhower and Kennedy. He was a supporter of Prohibition, and of the criminalization of drugs, and spearheaded anti-drug policy campaigns. Anslinger was a fanatic and a zealot when it came to narcotics — a fascist by any measure, and quite mad in my own estimation. Something set him off during his impressionable years. Read his life story for that. The only reason drugs are illegal and we consider their use criminal is because we have written laws to that effect. Change the laws and you change the judgment, and Mr. Kraut is profoundly judgmental. Back to the article, Kraut goes after state Sen. Scott Wiener of San Francisco and Senate Bill 519, calling him naive and his logic twisted. Talk about the pot calling the kettle black. I could say the same for Kraut. He comes across with bold bullets saying “just do this” and “just do that” if we really want end illegal drug use. Tossing the medieval judgment aside, has Mr. Kraut even ventured to find out why people take drugs in the first place? People take drugs to enter into an altered state of reality, to numb the pain, or to simply kill the boredom. Can you grasp such a concept, Mr. Kraut? Well, can you, or would that be just a bit too far beyond the boundaries of the cramped little box in which you reside? Now you’re seeing where I can get as passionate and zealous as people like Mr. Kraut. I suggest everyone read the book “Chasing The Scream,” by Johann Hari. The need to reach an altered state of reality will not go away until we can create a real reality that is pleasant enough to be endured and enjoyed every...single...day. And this world is not it. Arthur Saginian Santa Clarita Submit a Letter to the Editor

Include name, address & phone; Anonymous letters aren’t printed; email: letters@signalscv.com.

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

Dealing with Criticism By David Hegg

e live in an increasingly critical world. With the explosion of social media, our natural tendencies to be critical about everything have an inexhaustible outlet that offers both immediate gratification and anonymity. This is a very dangerous combination, especially if – like me – you are a public figure at some level. The wider your life and ideas are known, the more criticism you are bound to get. And, it turns out, that’s not all bad! Here are some things I’ve learned about criticism. 1. Things are not as bad as they may appear. By this I mean it is hardly ever the fact that the most vocal critics are in the majority. It is also often the case that critics are mad about someone or something else and are merely taking it out on you. Great leaders have learned from Olympic ice skating to “throw out the high and the low” and get on with life. If you think what you’re saying is worth saying, and true, then let the critics blow their air and don’t worry about it. 2. You can learn valuable things from your critics that you’ll never hear from your friends. Friends may sometimes tell you some hard things but critics always do. And while some criticism is unwarranted, some of it can hit home in ways we all need. No one is right all the time, and maybe God created golf and critics to keep us humble! 3. Criticism can help wean you away from thinking everyone has to love you. Few diseases are more debilitating to leadership than that of “people pleasing.” If you try to keep everyone happy, you’ll end up disappointing everybody at some point, and failing to do your job in the end. Criticism can help! Over time you’ll come to see just how ridiculous a majority of critics are, and you’ll find it easier and easier to take in their concerns, keep anything that might be helpful and toss the rest without another thought. Criticism also tells you that you’re

where you are supposed to be: smack dab in the middle of the marketplace of ideas, putting yourself out there, attempting to stimulate productive thought and action. Remember, most critics haven’t been where you are. They’ve never “played the game” and are consigned to sit in the stands and hurl invective at those courageous enough to make themselves vulnerable. 4. Criticism shows you must be saying things that pique widespread interest in relevant areas. No one critiques the irrelevant. So, if you’re getting picked on, it must mean that you’re at least talking about something important. And if something is important, it is essential that all angles be covered, each perspective considered, and all the facts brought to bear. When critics disagree, I figure it’s just their way of saying “thanks for bringing another opinion to the table.” 5. You never have to answer your critics. This is the most important thing I’ve learned about criticism. You never have to respond to your critics! There is nothing in the rulebook that says you and I have to take the time to rebut every comment or criticism. Neither do we have to try and persuade our critics that we’re right and they’re blind to it. We’ve already put our thoughts out there, and they can do whatever they want with it, but it won’t obligate further interaction on our part. There are some critics that I feel obligated to interact with, and continue the dialogue. They come at their criticism in a winsome manner, and honorably sign their name. Those who truly want to enter into a profitable discourse demonstrate their good intentions by refusing both inflammatory language and anonymity. Remember, iron does sharpen iron, but only if it comes at the right angle. Now … I await the arrival of my favorite critics! Local resident David Hegg is senior pastor of Grace Baptist Church. “Ethically Speaking” appears Sundays. 

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