Sunday Signal 052524

EXPLORE NATURE WITH SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY HIKES

By Michele E. Buttelman

Signal Staff Writer

It’s fun to get out in the fresh air, see the scenery and get some exercise. Solo hiking is great for body and soul, but sometimes solo hiking is lonely. Why not try to join a community hike where you can make new friends and find safety in numbers?

Recent weather in the Santa Clarita Valley has been perfect for hiking and the continued green landscapes and the blooming wildflowers and yuccas have made it a great time to enjoy the beauty of the SCV.

Santa Clarita Community Hikes

Santa Clarita Outdoor Recreation Coordinator Sean Tuber invites residents to join in monthly community hikes which offer interesting and fun themes. Hikes are scheduled year-round.

“Our hikes are free to the public, no preregistration is required, but we do ask participants to sign a waiver when they show up,” Tuber said. “The hikes are family-friendly and accessible for all ages.”

Tuber said the hikes are designed to be easy, usually around two miles long, but not longer than two-and-half miles.

“We try to mix up the locations and for each hike we have an activity included,” he said. “Not only is hiking good for your physical health, it is also good for your mental health.”

Activities featured on previous hikes have included general fitness exercises, music, art, yoga, Santa Clarita history and photography.

April’s hike was held at sunset in Central Park in Saugus and included a line dancing lesson.

“We hiked up to the top of the hill at Central Park, near the water tower and then we had a line dancing lesson,” Tuber said. “We had instructors waiting up there to teach a 30-minute line dancing lesson to the hikers as the sun was setting.”

Tuber said the goal of the community hike program is offer a unique program and create a “com-

munity” of participants who want to explore and embrace nature.

“I also want to add that you can make memories, too,” he said. “These are unique opportunities. You’re not going to find another hiking group to teach you salsa. It’s a great opportunity to bring the family and make memories.”

With more than 13,000 acres of dedicated public use Open Space in the SCV Tuber said there are many opportunities with dozens of trails and more trails under construction.

“We are fortunate to live here and be surrounded by the natural landscape with lots of places to explore,” he said.

Tuber said when participants arrive for the hike staff members will greet everyone and then explain the hike including the route and the featured activity,

Tuber, or a staff member, usually lead the hikes with a staff member bringing up the rear an on occasion another staff member in the middle of the group. The hikes, which began in January 2022, usually attract about 40, or so, participants each month.

“When we first started the program, it was a bit more casual,” he said. “We met at a trailhead, played some music, had some games and passed out information on the trails. But by May of that year, we decided to bring in people to lead different hikes or to feature an activity each month.”

On occasion a special guest will lead the hike, such as the hike scheduled July 27 which will feature nature photography expert Robin Baerg.

The full moon hike will feature observing the full moon on a hike just under two-miles on a trail behind the Sport Complex.

Tuber said that staff will be on hand to help with parking if there is not a clearly designated parking lot near the area.

Upcoming Community Hikes

The next Santa Clarita Community Hike will be held Friday, June 21, at 7:30 p.m. at the Santa Clar-

ita Sports Complex, meet at the outdoor basketball courts.

Saturday, July 27, 6 p.m. Quiqley Canyon Open Space, located at the end of Cleardale Avenue, in Placerita Canyon, in the Newhall area. Robin Baerg will lead a photography nature hike.

“You don’t need a fancy camera, Baerg will show you how to use your camera for nature photography,” Tuber said. “This hike is designed for anyone who uses their phone camera to take pictures.”

Friday, Aug. 9, 6:30 p.m. Central Park Exercise Stairs, 27150 Bouquet Canyon Road, Saugus, CA 91350. Featured activity will include salsa dancing. Saturday, Sept. 14, 6 p.m. McHaddad Trailhead, Newhall Pass Open Space, Edison Road, Newhall, CA 91321. Featured activity will be Zumba.

Tuber said it has been rewarding to see familiar faces return each month.

“Some people have become friends just by attending this program,” he said. “It’s really cool to see that kind of community being built.”

Hiking Challenge

The city of Santa Clarita also offers an annual Hiking Challenge. Tuber said more information will be available on the third annual hiking challenge in the fall. The free event encourages residents to visit various trails around the SCV

Once you have completed hiking all of the trails on the list, participants are directed to fill out the hike checklist online and submit to win prizes.

“We are trying to encourage people to get out and explore the different Open Space areas,” Tuber said.

The first year featured East Walker Ranch Open Space with Rivendale Park and Open Space at Towsley Canyon featured last year.

“We may mix it up this year, we haven’t finalized the challenge yet,” said Tuber.

To access a schedule of upcoming hikes and view accessible hiking trails visit HikeSantaClarita.com.

For questions call (661) 250-3754 or email OutdoorRecreation@santaclarita.gov. 

Yoga at Sunset

Art Hike

Line Dancing

PHOTOS COURTESY CITY OF SANTA CLARITA

Off the Beaten Path: California’s Tri-Valley

By Michele E. Buttelman Signal Staff Writer

California is a state rich with history, culinary trails, adventure and diversity. Living in California we know it is a very large state with incredible scenery, sophisticated urban centers and amazing tourist attractions.

However, it is easy to forget that at 163,696-square miles California is twice as big as Great Britan and has the world’s fifth largest economy.

California has miles of seashore, beautiful mountains, striking deserts and a rich tapestry of culinary trails.

As creatures of habit, it is easy to revisit our comfortable vacation haunts.

Who doesn’t love San Diego with the zoo, Coronado and Old Town? San Francisco’s famous wharf, Chinatown, Alcatraz Island and Golden Gate Bridge lure us back again and again.

Yet California is so much more than Hollywood Boulevard, Sea World and Disneyland. There are many fun and interesting places to visit off the beaten path.

California’s

Tri-Valley

California has more than 7,000 valleys. The Tri-Valley gets its name from the three major San Francisco Bay Area valleys that the region encompasses: San Ramon Valley, Amador Valley and Livermore Valley.

This unique region spans over two counties, Alameda County and Contra Costa County and is made up of five cities including Pleasanton, Livermore, Dublin, Danville and San Ramon.

From the Santa Clarita Valley the Tri-Valley is approximately five hours by car and about 300 miles.

Ice Cream Trail

The Tri-Valley Ice Cream Trail is a sweet diversion of featuring 10 indulgent destinations including Meadowlark Dairy, the first certified dairy in California and an institution since the early 1900s. Download the Ice Cream Trail mobile app to earn points and prizes. Visit visittrivalley.com/ activities-and-things-to-do/ice-cream-2-3.

Meadowlark Dairy

57 W Neal St., Pleasanton 94566

With a rich history dating back at least a century, this family-owned drive-thru dairy delights visitors with its creamy, handcrafted ice cream and nostalgic charm.

Icicles

647 Main St, Pleasanton 94566

Handcrafted hand rolled ice cream made daily using fresh fruit and other high-quality ingredients. This small regional chain has a dozen stores across the Bay Area.

Paleteria y Neveria Mi Lindo Michoacán 4424 Las Positas Road, Livermore 94551

Featuring 60 flavors of paletas along with ice cream bars, scoops of ice cream and other traditional snacks.

Almare Gelato Italiano

349 Main St., Pleasanton 94566

Neighborhood scoop shop serving gelato, sorbet and sweets with a welcoming vibe. They mix nut butters and infuse flowers, combine cream, milk and sugar to achieve the smoothest gelato possible. Loard’s

1875 Second St., Livermore 94551

Truly old-fashioned ice cream. They’re famous for their irresistibly rich and creamy creations.

Lottie’s Creamery

102 E Prospect Ave., Danville 94526

Artisan ice cream with attention to every detail, served up in a vibrant, kid-friendly scoop shop. Great destination for families and gourmands alike. Enjoy fresh, small-batch ice creams and cookies in a family-friendly setting. Ginger Green Tea, Vanilla Salted Almond Toffee and Mint Fudge Cookies are just a few of the favorites.

Kwality Ice Cream

6601 Dublin Blvd., Dublin 94568

Ice creamery featuring 100% vegetarian, authentic Indian ice cream, kulfi, and ice cream cakes.

Yersen Gelato Cakes

9000 Crow Canyon Road, Unit N, Danville 94526

Get gelato in a cup or cone as well with toppings. Try a gelato cake. Large offering of flavors.

Uji Time Dessert

2705 Stoneridge Drive Unit H, Pleasanton 94566

Korean-inspired soft serve and hard ice cream served in bowls or Taiyaki (goldfish-shaped waffle cones). Also offers mochi, matcha, milkshakes, tea, and more.

Tri-Valley’s Wine Trail

The Livermore Valley Wine Trail winds through the Livermore Valley AVA, a relaxed wine region producing outstanding wines in the San Francisco Bay Area. Home to more than 55 wineries, it’s one of the oldest wine regions in the country.

The Livermore Winery Loop is a 5.2 miles long easy bike trail with an elevation gain of only 70 feet that features lakeside views and vineyards.

For a complete list of vineyards and wineries, as well as a free printable map visit https://visittrivalley.com/activities-and-things-to-do/wine-country/.

Tri-Valley Caffeine Trail

If you want to indulge your caffeine addiction the Tri-Valley Caffeine Trail offers a unique collection of cafés, coffee houses and tea rooms each with their own special perks.

Sip on craft coffee creations, sweet boba tea and steamy artisanal teas as you explore the most creative caffeine connoisseurs in California. Visit more than a dozen caffeine purveyors you can find on a mobile app that also rewards users with special treats. visittrivalley.com/caffeine-trail.

Here are just a few: Pleasanton

Bobainfinitea 4233 Rosewood Drive #9

Honey Tea 2705 Stoneridge Drive, Suite K Inklings Coffee & Tea 530 Main St.

Livermore

Panama Bay Coffee Co. 2115 First St.

Rosetta Roasting 206 S J St.

Steamhouse Coffee & Kava Bar 1935 Second St.

Dublin

AJ’s Coffee 7377 Amador Valley Blvd.

Boba Bliss 8945 San Ramon Road

Café Tapioca 7160 Regional St.

Danville

Sideboard Neighborhood Kitchen 90 Railroad Ave.

Starbucks Reserve 398 Hartz Ave A

Medleno Coffee Shop & Roastery 480 San Ramon Valley Blvd.

The Tri-Valley is just one of many amazing places to visit in California, get a map and start exploring. 

MAY IS AWARENESS MONTH

May highlights the important role mental health plays in our general health and well-being. It influences how we feel, think and act. Many Americans of all ages experience mental distress. According to National Institute of Mental Health data, more than 1 in 5 U.S. adults live with a mental health condition. A mental health condition is an illness or disorder that affects your thinking, feeling, behavior or mood, and can range from mild to severe. Moreover, about 1 in 25 U.S. adults live with a severe or serious mental health condition. People with serious mental health conditions can live fulfilling lives with effective treatment. However, some people are not in treatment because they lack access to care or may want to avoid perceived stigma related to mental health conditions.

Mental Health Awareness Month is an opportunity not only to focus on mental well-being, but also on the connection between mental health conditions and substance use. Some people with mental health conditions struggle with substance use. They may turn to illicit drugs and other substances to help them cope with stress, trauma or mental distress. Brain changes in people with mental health conditions may also make it more likely they will continue to use substances and could develop substance use disorders and addiction. People with substance use disorders, in turn, may have increased risk for developing other mental health conditions.

And what’s more, using these drugs can have dangerous consequences, including overdose or even death. Substance use disorder affects an estimated 1 in 7 Americans, and nearly 300 Americans die every day from a drug overdose.

Mixing Drugs is Never Safe

People sometimes think that because they’ve mixed drugs before and nothing seemed to happen, they can do it again. However, a person’s body can react to drugs differently every time. The fact is, even if you’ve been OK in the past, there’s no way to know what the outcome will be from mixing drugs.

Why it’s So Dangerous to Mix Drugs

No matter how it happens, mixing opioids with other drugs is incredibly risky. Using more than one drug is never safe because the effects of mixing them can be stronger or more unpredictable than one drug alone.

For example, mixing opioids with stimulants (“uppers”) can increase your risk for a heart attack or a stroke. Mixing opioids with depressants (“downers”) can slow breathing or lead to brain damage. Mixing can even be deadly: More than 50 percent of overdose deaths involve multiple drugs.

“May is Mental Health Awareness Month, and we want to remind everyone that mental health is health,” said Allison Arwady, MD, MPH, Director of Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s National Center for Injury Prevention and Control.

“Every one of us can take a small action today to help build connection in our communities to promote mental well-being and prevent mental distress. Sustained connections, in turn, make it less likely that people will turn to substances to help cope with life’s stressors, and this can decrease the risk of overdose.”

Learn the Signs of Overdose and How to Help by Using Naloxone

If you think someone could be experiencing a drug overdose - even if you’re not sure — it’s safest to treat it as an overdose. Naloxone is a lifesaving, non-addictive, over-the-counter medication that can be administered to help reverse an opioid overdose, and anyone can keep and use it to help save a life. You can get naloxone as a nasal spray or an injection, and you can use it without medical training or authorization. Also, it won’t harm a person if they’re overdosing on a drug that’s not an opioid.

Seven signs of overdose to watch for include:

• Small constricted, pinpoint pupils

• Slow, weak or no breathing

• Falling asleep or losing consciousness

• Choking or gurgling sounds

• Cold and/or clammy skin

• Discolored skin, especially lips and/or nails

• Limp body

Important steps to take when you think someone around you is overdosing:

• Administer naloxone, if available

• Call 911

• Keep the person awake and breathing

• Lay person on their side to prevent choking

• Stay with the person until emergency assistance arrives

What CDC is Doing to Stop Overdose in America

At CDC we’re educating people about the dangers of illicitly made fentanyl, the risks and consequences of mixing drugs, the lifesaving power of naloxone, and the importance of reducing stigma around recovery and treatment options. We are using the State Unintentional Drug Overdose Reporting System to better understand the circumstances that surround overdose deaths, improve fatal overdose data timeliness and accuracy, and identify specific substances causing or contributing to overdose deaths as well as emerging and polysubstance overdose trends to help inform overdose prevention and response efforts. CDC is investing in neighborhoods, communities, cities, counties, states and the nation to prevent overdoses and ensure the health and well-being of all Americans. Learning how to prevent an overdose can help save a life if you know someone struggling with addiction. For more information and resources, visit CDC.gov/StopOverdose.

If you’re in the U.S. and thinking about suicide, are worried about a friend or loved one, or would like emotional support, call or text 988 now, or chat 988lifeline.org.

If you’re wanting help for substance use, know that recovery is possible. You can find evidence-based treatment and service options near you by visiting findtreatment.gov or by calling the 24/7 National Helpline at 800-662-HELP (4357). (BPT) 

Tips to Barbeque the Best Tri-Tip Roast

Special from Hey Grill Hey

For a simple, yet satisfying cut of beef, try out this recipe for BBQ Tri Tip. It’s cooked nice and slow before finishing with a hot sear and mopped with a BBQ and Butter sauce

BBQ Tri Tip Roast

BBQ Tri Tip is a super fun way to prepare a tri tip roast. You’ve likely seen many of my tri tip recipes here on Hey Grill Hey. This isn’t like any of those recipes but is something unique.

A thick tri tip is hard to grill over high, direct heat without over-cooking. This BBQ method starts with low and slow cooking (either indirect heat on a gas or charcoal grill or in a smoker) while the roast is turned and repeatedly basted with my Texas Style BBQ Sauce. Finally, all that tasty sauce and grill flavor is caramelized and tightened on the trip tip with a high heat sear.

The result is a tender and juicy tip, perfectly cooked throughout, with a tangy and delicious BBQ crust on the outside.

How to BBQ Tri Tip

Let’s talk about cooking this tasty roast, shall we? You only need a few ingredients and a hot grill to make this recipe a success.

Season

I’m all about keeping things easy. That’s why I seasoned my roast with my award-winning Beef Rub. You can purchase this from my store anytime you need it! If you can’t wait for a delivery of this seasoning, you can also season your tri tip with equal parts salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Make the Sauce

Combine butter and BBQ sauce in a saucepan and heat through. This recipe uses my Texas BBQ

Sauce that can be purchased from my store or made from scratch using the recipe for Texas Style BBQ Sauce.

Grill

With your grill preheated for two-zone cooking (one direct heat side of the grill and one indirect heat side of the grill), cook the roast over the indirect heat for approximately 30-40 minutes. Flip the roast every 6-7 minutes, mopping with the butter/ BBQ sauce mixture each time.

Sear

Finish cooking your tri tip roast over direct heat for a final 3-4 minutes until the internal temperature reaches your desired doneness (see the next section for these times).

Serve

Remove the tip to a serving dish, slice, and serve. I like to serve mine with extra BBQ sauce on the side.

How Long to BBQ

Tri Tip

It takes approximately 35-45 minutes to BBQ a tip. Many factors affect how long it will take to fully

cook, including how steady the temperature is in your BBQ, how big your tri tip roast is, and what final temperature you are aiming for.

This tri tip is initially cooked over indirect heat until the roast reaches the following temperature:

• 115 degrees F for a rare roast (about 30 minutes)

• 125 degrees F for a medium-rare roast (about 35 minutes)

• 135 degrees F for a medium roast (about 40 minutes)

After this temperature has been reached, the roast is moved over to direct heat for 2-3 minutes per side until the steak comes to a final temperature of the following:

• 125 degrees F for rare

• 135 degrees F for medium-rare

• 145 degrees F for medium

I recommend using time as an estimation on how long it will take to BBQ tip. Make sure you are always cooking to temperature and not to time using a reliable meat thermometer. 

HEADS UP!

FROM THE CITY MANAGER Renew Your Love for Books with the 2024 Summer Reading Program

“The more that you read, the more things you will know. The more that you learn, the more places you’ll go.” — Dr. Seuss

By Ken Striplin Santa Clarita City Manager

As the summer approaches, the Santa Clarita Public Library offers our community the opportunity to embrace the power of reading. Staff has been hard at work creating engaging and exciting activities to promote reading, aligning with this year’s 2024 Summer Reading Program theme, “Read, Renew, Repeat.” Understanding the importance of making reading enjoyable and accessible to all age groups, the Library has curated a diverse range of activities, musical performances, crafts, special events and of course, plenty of reading opportunities — all centered around encouraging participants to be environmentally conscious.

recycling services by Burrtec, attendees will have the opportunity to gain valuable insights into important aspects of sustainability.

Make sure to sign your kids up to participate in entertaining scavenger hunts, unleash their creativity with tie-dye bandana workshops and compete in Top Chef Jr to ignite their culinary passions. Teens can explore environmental themes with Enviroscape water tasting, participate in community cleanups to foster a sense of responsibility and engage in handson terrarium making to blend science with creativity. Meanwhile, adults can enjoy the Mushroom terrarium activities, explore the world of Mason jar hydroponics and unleash their artistic flair with wine-to-cup etching. Through these innovative activities, the Santa Clarita Public Library is not only promoting reading and upcycling, but also creating memorable experiences that inspire a lifelong love of literature for everyone in our community.

In addition to the exciting lineup of activities for all ages, the Santa Clarita Public Library is proud to offer special presentations and events across all three branches on a weekly basis. From informative sessions about our community’s water services by SCV Water to engaging presentations on

We are also pleased to announce that Lunch at the Library will be back this summer. School Day Café will provide lunches at both the Newhall and Canyon Country branches. This program ensures that students get a healthy, well-balanced meal each day as part of the Summer Reading Program, serving children and teens 18 and under. Served Monday through Friday from 12-1 p.m., this program aims to support families and provide a nutritious meal option.

To further enrich your family’s Summer Reading Experience, the Library offers the ‘Check it OUTside’ program every Wednesday at various parks in the City, featuring outdoor activities led by Library staff.

Sign up now to participate in our Summer Reading program, simply register yourself or your family members to track your reading progress and engage in various challenges from June 10 through July 27, for the opportunity to win prizes. Find more information and sign up at SantaClaritaReads.com to begin the challenge and for the opportunity to earn prizes, win books and maybe even win the grand prize. Join our community in an effort to become life-long learners and may the reading begin!

Ken Striplin is the City Manager for the City of Santa Clarita and can be reached at kstriplin@santaclarita. gov. 

Scrumptious Ways to Simplify Springtime Meals FOOD

From everyday weeknight dinners to picnics in the park, warmer weather and longer days mean families want to spend more time together and less time in the kitchen. This spring, look for kitchen hacks that can make fresh and healthy weeknight seasonal recipes a cinch.

Skipping complicated prep work is the first step toward simplifying springtime meals. Rather than recipes that call for a lot of prep or cooking time, consider easy dishes that require only a handful of steps and use everyday ingredients you may already have in your pantry, fridge or freezer.

For example, these Shrimp, Broccoli and Potato Skewers with Lemon and Thyme can let you put a little spring in your weeknight dinners. Grilled skewers keep the whole family happy and come together in less than 30 minutes, making them perfect for quick and healthy meals without the hassle. The versatility of potatoes means you can grill them, and this version calls for a 5-minute microwave steam first to cut down on grill time.

With easy-to-prepare potatoes, The Little Potato Company makes family dinners like this one a breeze as they come pre-washed, require no peeling and are small enough they don't need to be cut. This allows for less time in the kitchen and more time for outdoor play to enjoy a little moment of happiness. Plus, the Microwave and Roast or Grill Ready kits come with their own seasoning packs for added convenience.

Grown on family farms, Little Potatoes are a fresh whole food packed with nutrients you can feel good about serving your family and are ideal for this Easy as 1-2-3 Potato Salad. With just three ingredients and minimal prep time, this delightful dish becomes an ultimate springtime solution for busy families. Plus, it's easy enough that little ones can join in on the fun of preparing it.

Shrimp, Broccoli and Potato Skewers with Lemon and Thyme

Simply pop the tray of Microwave Ready Little Potatoes in the microwave for 5 minutes then add the included Savory Herb seasoning pack, chopped green onions and mayonnaise for a delicious sideno potato boiling or peeling required.

To find more ways to savor springtime meals outdoors with your family, visit littlepotatoes.com.

Shrimp, Broccoli and Potato Skewers with Lemon and Thyme

Prep time 5 minutes

Cook time 20 minutes

Servings 4

1 pound bagged Little Potatoes

Easy as 1-2-3 Potato Salad

1 bunch broccoli

12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined 1 1/2 lemons, juice only

3 tablespoons fresh thyme, chopped

2 tablespoons olive oil salt, to taste pepper, to taste

In large, microwave-safe bowl, microwave potatoes on high 5 minutes.

Chop broccoli into large pieces.

Add broccoli and shrimp to bowl once potatoes are steamed.

Add lemon juice, thyme and olive oil; evenly coat potatoes, shrimp and broccoli. Season with salt and pepper, to taste.

Build skewers and grill 10-15 minutes on medium-high heat, until shrimp is cooked through.

Easy as 1-2-3 Potato Salad

Prep time 2 minutes

Cook time 5 minutes

Servings 4

1 package A Little Savory Herb Microwave Ready Little Potatoes, with included seasoning pack

2-3 tablespoons green onions, chopped 1/2 cup mayonnaise or plain Greek yogurt

In microwave, cook potatoes 5 minutes according to package directions.

Combine seasoning pack, chopped green onions and mayonnaise or Greek yogurt.

Pour dressing over cooled potatoes. Stir gently and serve. (Family Features 

ENTERTAINMENT

The Ups, Downs and Up of Lollapalooza in Chicago

By Richard Roeper Signal Contributing Writer

‘Lolla: The Story of Lollapalooza’  (out of four)

A three-part documentary on Paramount+.

In a little more than two months, Chicago will again gear up to host Lollapalooza, with a total of more than 400,000 attendees flocking to Grant Park from August 1-4 to see headliners including Tyler, the Creator; Hozier; SZA; The Killers; Blink-182; and Melanie Martinez. It's a giant, heavily sponsored enterprise, generating hundreds of millions for Chicago's economy and turning a tidy profit for organizers, with prices ranging from $149 for a bare-bones, one-day general admission ticket to $4,500 for a four-day Platinum pass, and luxury cabanas going for tens of thousands of dollars.

Sunday-Thursday, May 26-3 ,

For Gen Z and even some young-

er Millennials, they've never known a time when Chicago wasn't the annual home for what remains one of the biggest musical festivals in the world, but that wasn't always the case. The three-part Paramount+ documenta-

U R I O S A: A M A D M AX S AG A E Sun: 10:00 1:00 4:00 7:00 10:00; Mon: 10:00 1:00 4:00 7:00; Tue to Thu: 1:00 4:00 7:00 As the world fell, young Furiosa is snatched from the Green Place of Many Mothers and falls into the hands of a great Biker Horde led by the Warlord Dementus

S I G H T C Sun & Mon: 10:30 1:30 4:30 7:30; Tue to Thu: 1:30 4:30 7:30

SIGHT s the insp ring true stor y that looks at what it means to see beyond one’s self

T H E G A R F I E L D M OV I E B Sun: 10:20 1:20 4:20 7:30 10:10; Mon: 10:20 1:20 4:20 7:30; Tue to Thu: 1:20 4:20 7:30

After an unexpec ted reunion with h s long- ost father - scruffy street cat Vic (voiced by Samuel L Jackson) - Gar field and his canine fr end Odie are forced from their per fec tly pampered life into join ng Vic in a hilarious high-stakes heist

BAC K TO B L AC K E Sun: 1:20 4:10 7:20 10:15; Mon to Thu: 1:20 4:10 7:20

The ex traordinar y stor y of Amy Winehouse s early r se to fame from her early days n Camden through the mak ng of her groundbreaking album, Back to Black that catapulted Winehouse to global fame

I F B Sun: 10:20 1:10 4:20 7:10 10:15; Mon: 10:20 1:10 4:20 7:10; Tue to Thu: 1:10 4:20 7:10

If is about a girl who discovers that she can see ever yone’s imaginar y friends - and what she does with that superpower

K I N G D O M O F T H E P L A N E T O F T H E A P E S C Sun: 10:00 1:00 3:50 7:00 9:50; Mon: 10:00 1:00 3:50 7:00; Tue to Thu: 1:00 3:50 7:00

Set several generations in the future follow ng Caesar ’s reign a new tyrannical ape leader builds his empire

T H E FA L L G U Y C Sun: 10:10 1:10 4:00 7:10 10:00; Mon: 10:10 1:10 4:00 7:10; Tue to Thu: 1:10 4:00 7:10

He’s a stuntman, and like ever yone in the stunt community, he gets blown up, shot, crashed, thrown through w ndows and dropped from the highest of heights, all for our enter tainment

C H A L L E N G E R S E Sun: 10:10 PM

A former tenn s prodigy turned coach has her strategy for her husband’s redemption take a surprising turn when he must face off against his former best friend

U N S U N G H E RO B Sun & Mon: 10:10 AM When David Smallbone’s successful mus c company col apses, he moves his family from Australia to the States, searching for a brighter future

ry series “Lolla: The Story of Lollapalooza” serves as a solid video history document for younger fans of Lolla, and a trip down Alt-Rock Memory Lane for those of us who attended some of the very first shows.

Directed by Michael John Warren (“Spring Awakening: Those You've Known,” Jay Z's “Fade to Black”) and produced by MTV Entertainment Studios and FunMeter, in partnership with C3 Presents (producer of Lollapalooza), the docuseries sometimes comes across as an extended infomercial for Lolla. Still, it doesn't shy away from chronicling the ups and downs of the festival, from its early days as an anti-establishment, activist, altrock tour, through some growing pains and a loss of identity, through the demise of Lolla and eventually its resurrection as a wildly popular annual event that has become a part of Chicago's (and the world's) cultural landscape.

Like just about any documentary series in any genre, “Lolla” features recollections from key participants who sit alone, often in stark settings — and Perry Farrell is arguably the most dapper and stylish interview subject you'll ever see, sharing his insights while wearing an ensemble that includes boot and scarf, and sipping from a bottle of what appears to be red wine throughout.

In the opening episode, titled, “F-- the Man,” we're told Lollapalooza was inspired by the Reading Music Festival in England, where some 60 bands performed over a long weekend. In 1991, Farrell had reached the end of the road with Jane's Addiction (“We really couldn't stand each other”), and the Lolla co-founders (Farrell among them) came up with the idea of modeling the band's last tour after Reading, with alternative opening acts. “All I thought was this was a farewell party for my band,” says Farrell.

With Ice-T & Body Count, Living Colour, Siouxsie and the Banshees and Henry Rollins, among others, joining the tour, the newly christened Lollapalooza picked up steam at every stop, highlighted by a turnout of 30,000 at the World Music Theatre in Tinley Park, where Nine Inch Nails killed.

“They kicked everybody's ass,” says Tom Morello of Rage Against the Machine. “It was a clarion call that there was a different kind of music that could be harder than heavy metal.” Adds Trent Reznor of Nine Inch Nails: “Culturally, something was shifting.” The decision was made to make Lolla an annual thing.

Lollapalooza kept its alt-cool cred going in 1992, with acts including Red Hot Chili Peppers, Soundgarden, Ministry, Pearl Jam and Ice Cube — but within just a few years, corporate labels were lobbying to place their bands on the bill, and the very success of Lolla worked against its reputation as a truly alternative showcase. By the mid- and late 1990s, Lollapalooza was criticized for going too big — as when Metallica headlined in 1996 — or too eclectic, e.g., when Farrell became enamored with electronic music before it exploded and the fest featured headline acts such as The Prodigy and Orbital.

After just seven years, Lolla was over. There was a one-year revival in 2003, but the tour was canceled in 2004 due to disappointing ticket sales. Enter Chicago. In Episode 3, we see how the organizers of Lolla pitched the Chicago Park District, promising $500,000 that could be used to pay for local programs. Against low expectations and some resentment about all the street closures, Lolla was a hit in 2005 and built momentum each year.

We see great footage of a little-known Lady Gaga on a smaller stage in 2007, Rage Against the Machine performing in front of an enormous crowd in 2008, Gaga returning as headliner in 2010.

Chance the Rapper talks about getting caught sneaking into Lolla in 2011 and recalls that a friendly security guard “let me post up” to watch the concerts. Two years later, Chance was on a side stage, and in 2017, he gave a main stage performance in front of 100,000 fans. Says former mayor Lori Lightfoot, “This is a big deal in Chicago. It is definitely part of the DNA of who we are as a city.”

She's not wrong.  Copyright 2024 Chicago Sun-Times

PHOTO CREDIT IMDB

SENIOR LIVING

Pneumococcal Pneumonia Vaccination Can Save Your Life

Pneumococcal pneumonia is a potentially serious bacterial lung disease that can disrupt a person’s life for weeks. When severe, it can result in hospitalization and even be life threatening. Each year, pneumococcal pneumonia results in an estimated 150,000 hospitalizations in the United States, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. But it doesn’t have to be this way.

The American Lung Association and Pfizer are partnering to raise awareness about pneumococcal pneumonia and encourage adults to get vaccinated if they are eligible, and are highlighting the collective action needed to reduce the burden of pneumococcal pneumonia.

Here are some fast facts about the disease, along with tips and actions you can take to help stay healthy:

What are the symptoms of pneumococcal pneumonia?

Common symptoms of pneumococcal pneumonia include high fever, excessive sweating, shaking chills, coughing, difficulty breathing, shortness of breath, and chest pain. Some symptoms can appear quickly and without warning.

Should I receive a pneumococcal pneumonia vaccination?

Pneumococcal pneumonia vaccines are available to help prevent the disease and are recommended if you are at increased risk. The CDC Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices recommends pneumococcal vaccination for all adults aged 65 years or older and adults aged 19 to 64 with certain underlying medical conditions or other risk factors, including: chronic lung disease like asthma or COPD, chronic heart disease, diabetes, and smoking cigarettes.

What if I am healthy?

Even healthy adults 65 years or older are at increased risk for pneumococcal pneumonia. Because the body’s immune system naturally weakens with age, it can be more difficult for your body to defend against pneumococcal disease. In fact, adults 65 years old and older are over 10 times more likely to be hospitalized

with pneumococcal pneumonia than adults aged 18-49.

What if I’ve had pneumonia before?

You can get pneumococcal pneumonia more than once and having pneumococcal disease does not protect you from future infection.

What if I’ve already been vaccinated?

Even if you’ve been vaccinated against pneumococcal pneumonia in the past, it’s important to speak to your healthcare provider, as they may recommend an additional vaccination.

How can I help protect myself and my community?

Getting the word out about the importance of vaccination against preventable illness can help keep people healthier. Recent data from the National Health Interview Survey estimates that only 22.2% of adults 1964 at increased risk of pneumococcal disease ever received a vaccination, and only 65.8% of adults 65 years or older received at least one dose. Unfortunately, rates of vaccination are lower among Black, Hispanic/Latino and Asian adults compared with their white counterparts, putting members of these communities at risk of infection.

To learn more about pneumococcal pneumonia and your risk for it, visit Lung.org/pneumococcal.

“It’s always the right time to discuss pneumococcal pneumonia vaccination with a healthcare provider. While cold and flu season is behind us, this disease can strike anytime, in any season and you can be vaccinated any time of year, too,” says Dr. Albert Rizzo, chief medical officer of the American Lung Association. (SPT) 

QAre there any more series in the works for actress Poppy Montgomery? I’m in the process of watching all the reruns of “Unforgettable” with her in it.

— L.M.

AAustralian actress Poppy Montgomery has starred in two very successful drama series, both on CBS. First, she played FBI agent Samantha Spade in “Without a Trace,” opposite another Australian— Anthony LaPaglia (“Florida Man”). The show lasted seven seasons and likely led to Montgomery headlining another series for the same network, called “Unforgettable.” The premise is about a crime solver with hyperthymesia, a condition in which she can recall every place, conversation and moment in her life. It’s loosely based on actress Marilu Henner (“Taxi”), who was

diagnosed with the same condition. Since “Unforgettable” ended in 2016, Montgomery has starred in the ABC series “Reef Break,” but it lasted just one season. Her other credits include TV movies like “A Surrogate’s Nightmare,” “Mission Control” and “Christmas on the Farm.” There are no other upcoming projects listed for her, but I wouldn’t rule her out for another network series in the future.

What We Buried

By Robert Rotenberg

Inspired by the true story of the Forty Martyrs in Gubbio, Italy, during World War II, this is an extraordinary crime novel about troubled legacies, revenge, and the unbreakable bonds of family.

For fans of Scott Turow and David Baldacci, a Toronto homicide detective is attacked at his doorstep when his investigation into possible links between the Nazi occupation of Italy and the murder of his brother decades later gets too close to the truth.

It’s been years since Daniel Kennicott’s brother, Michael, was shot and killed the night before he was about to depart for Gubbio. The case was never solved. Daniel has put off going there — until now. As he’s about to leave, Daniel learns his two mentors have been involved in the investigation of Michael’s murder and they’re

QIs it true that Reba McEntire is leaving “The Voice”? Who will replace her?

— N.N.

ANo, as a matter of fact, Reba McEntire will be back for her third consecutive season as a coach this fall on the singing-competition series “The Voice.” Also returning as a coach is Gwen Stefani, but there will be two new occupants in the big red chairs this coming season. Canadian crooner Michael Bublé and Los Angeles rapper Snoop Dogg will round out the team. Both have served in other capacities on “The Voice,” in the form of advisor and mentor, respectively.

QI’m wondering if actress Laura San Giacomo is still working? I read that she’s married to an actor I saw in a movie on HBO about surfing, called “North Shore.” Are they still married?

— K.B.

ALaura San Giacomo won an Independent Spirit Award for her supporting role in the indie film “Sex, Lies and Videotape” back in 1989. A year later, she made another memorable impression on audiences

concerned about Daniel’s safety. Is Daniel risking his life — and those of others — by trying to uncover the truth?

Right Across the Bay

By Quinn Avery

They were cousins who shared decades of secrets. And now one of them is dead.

Britta Baxter, beloved fitness influencer and estranged wife of a surgeon, gave up city life to start anew on grandma’s lakefront property. After she convinces her cousin, Maxine Thomsen, to revisit the same lake

where they’d spent their summers together as kids, Maxine is shocked to learn the boy she loved as a teenager lives across the bay. Although repairing the decades-old relationship between Maxine and Noah seems possible, a dark ending has already been set in place.

When Britta’s body is discovered floating in the bay, Detective Josephine Kelly is called in to investigate. But Britta isn’t the only victim on the killer’s list. Here’s a thriller fraught with life-changing twists and unfathomable secrets rooted in a shadowy past.

as Julia Roberts’ wisecracking roomie in the blockbuster hit “Pretty Woman.”

She went on to star alongside David Spade in “Just Shoot Me!” for seven seasons, playing a hot-tempered journalist who loses her job and is forced to go work at her father’s fashion magazine. It might appear that her career took a downturn after that, but in reality, she’s been working pretty much nonstop for the past two decades. More recently, she had a recurring role as a therapist on the hit series “NCIS,” played an acting coach in the Emmy-nominated HBO series “Barry,” and was part of the ensemble cast of the Tim Allen series “The Santa Clauses.”

As for her husband, San Giacomo has been married to Matt Adler (“North Shore”) since 2000. Most of his recent credits include voice work for animated series and video games. Send me your questions at NewCelebrityExtra@gmail.com, or write me at KFWS, 628 Virginia Drive, Orlando, FL 32803. 

©2023 King Features Synd., Inc.

Somewhere/Not/Here

By The Goblin Queen

Join the Goblin Queen on her quest for Somewhere/not/here as she searches for the place she belongs. Visit the Road to Ruin, a strange witchy woman who reads from her book of M-Tales. Meet Shockappeal the punk faerie, hang with Halloween Jack, and fly with the Techno-Witch, but avoid buying one of her moody brooms.

Travel to the lands of Love and Unlove — nice places to visit, but you wouldn’t want to live there. Have a therapy session with the Magick Mirror. No appointment required. By the way, Truth has teeth, and it will use them … bring band-aids. The author, who loves to write and travel to mystical places, lives in a magical house in a fantasy realm with her family and the ghosts of her dogs. And enjoy the book’s full-color illustrations.  BookBites is presented by Book Trib.com.

Poppy Montgomery in “Reef Break” COURTESY OF ABC

PET CORNER

AGING

Continued from previous page

living longer now than ever before, so it’s good for pet owners to familiarize themselves with common health issues that can affect older pets.

Senior Pets

The AVMA notes that cats are generally considered “senior” after 10 years of age. It’s a little harder to pinpoint when dogs enter their golden years, as the size disparity between breeds affects their senior status, or lack thereof. The AVMA notes small or toy breeds (less than 20 pounds) acquire “senior” status between eight and 11 years of age; medium-sized breeds (20 to 50 pounds) between eight and 10 years of age; large breeds (50 to 90 pounds) between eight and nine years of age; and giant breeds (more than 90 pounds) between six and seven years of age.

Cancer and senior pets

The AVMA reports that cancer is the cause of death in roughly 50 percent of all dogs and around one-third of senior cats. Cancer in pets may produce a variety of symptoms, including:

• Abdominal swelling

• Bleeding from the mouth or nose or other body openings

• Difficulty eating or swallowing

• Breathing difficulties

• Lumps, bumps or discolored skin

• Sores that will not heal

• Persistent diarrhea or vomiting

• Decreased appetite or body weight

• Swelling, heat, pain, or lameness that cannot be explained

Other Issues Affecting Aging Pets

Though cancer is responsible for a significant percentage of deaths among senior cats and dogs, it’s not the only issue that can affect aging pets. The AVMA notes a number of common health problems affect pets as they age, including:

Heart disease The Animal Medical Center, a New York-based nonprofit organization, notes degenerative valve disease, dilated cardiomyopathy and heartworm disease are common types of heart disease in dogs. Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy is a common heart disease found in cats.

Kidney or urinary tract disease The Veterinary Diagnostic Library at Michigan State University notes that chronic kidney disease affects up to 10% of aging dogs and 35% of aging cats.

Liver disease

Diabetes The AVMA reports that diabetes is most often diagnosed in dogs between the ages of seven and 10 and in cats older than six years of age.

Joint or bone disease

Overweight or obesity

Vision or hearing loss The AVMA notes senior pets can develop cataracts that affect their vision and may not respond as well to voice commands as they did when they were younger.

Cats and dogs are living longer. Pet parents can prepare for their pets’ golden years by learning about common ailments that affect aging animals. (MC) 

Preventive Care is the Best way to avoid Illnesses and Accidents

Spring is Here and Summer is Coming...

So what does this mean for your pet?

Rattlesnake Awareness... Rattlesnake Season is here. Rattlesnake vaccinations can give you a little more time to get your Pet to Veterinary Care, call for more Information

Allergies... Pets can suffer the same Allergies as Humans (Sneezing, Coughing, Itchy Eyes, Skin Irritations, etc.)

Allergy Testing determines what your Pets Allergies are and will help you to be proactive in your pets surroundings

Outdoor Air Temperatures and Ground Temperatures differ dramatically with possible Pet Paw Burns

Simple tests: Press your hand on the pavement for about 7 seconds

OR if its too hot for your feet, it’s TOO HOT for your pets Paws. and as always, hydrate, hydrate, hydrate! Check this out

Call or Message us at (661) 888-8VET for more Information or to Request an Appointment

Check out our List of Services or contact us at -- www.scanimalurgentcare.vet 18597 Soledad Canyon Road Santa Clarita 91351

(On the Corner of Shangri La Street in the Vallarta Shopping Center)

“I

– Becky Robelotto, GDA | TLC Puppy Raiser

River Poo-lution and Clean Up Pet Waste

• Pick up after your pet in your own yard and on outings, and seal the bag.

• Dispose of pet waste in the regular garbage container, and not the organics bin, recycle bin or the storm drain.

• Do not use your hose to wash pet waste down into the storm drain.

Open Hours

MONDAY and TUESDAY 8AM - 5PM

WEDNESDAY - CLOSED

THURSDAY and FRIDAY 8AM - 5PM

SATURDAY 8AM - 3PM

SUNDAY - CLOSED

Spring is Here and Summer is Coming...

Allergies and Allergy Testing...

Preventive Care is Always the best medicine

Many Pets suffer the same Allergies as Humans (Sneezing, Coughing, Itchy Eyes, Skin Irritations, etc.) Allergy Testing will determine what your Pets Allergies are and will help you to be proactive in your pets surroundings. Contact us for more Information.

Rattlesnake Awareness and Antivenom...

As we already treated Rattlesnake bites this month, with Rattlesnake Anti-Venom, Rattlesnake vaccinations can give you a little more time to get your Pet to Veterinary Urgent Care. Contact us for more Information.

MENTION THIS AD FOR A $10 DISCOUNT TOWARDS YOUR PETS

We are located at 44623 10TH Street West between Lancaster Blvd. and Newgrove Street Call or Message us at 661-948-5065 or visit us at www.smithveterinaryhospital.net to see a list of Services we Offer and Request an Appointment

What are Microchips and How Do They Work?

Pet owners generally want to do all they can to safeguard the well-being of their companion animals. This includes taking steps to ensure that pets can be returned safely should they get lost while outdoors. Collars with identification information on them is one option, but that does not offer peace of mind if the collar comes loose and falls off. However, microchipping is a permanent solution that is ideal for pets.

What is a microchip?

It is a small device that is injected under the pet’s skin. It is about the size of a grain of rice. Unlike collars or tags that can fall off or become illegible, a microchip always contains the data that has your identification. Does it have a battery?

No, a microchip is simply an electronic chip enclosed in a glass cylinder. It is activated when a scanner sending out radio waves is passed over the chip, which then transmits

the ID number to the scanner. The microchip is known as a transponder. You do not have to worry about replacing batteries or recharging the chip. Typically microchips last for 24 years, well past the average life span of many pets.

Is insertion painful?

Veterinarians assert that injecting the microchip is no more painful than a typical vaccination. However, the needle to place the microchip is slightly larger. The procedure can be done during a routine office visit and does not require anesthesia. Some vets will implant the chip during a procedure for spaying or neutering so that the animal will be calm and still under anesthesia.

Who can read the chip?

Virtually all shelters and veterinarians have scanners that can read microchips. Beginning in 2004, the 134 kHz microchip was introduced with specifications developed by the International Standards Organiza-

tion (ISO). This frequency is usually considered the global standard for pet microchips and the one that most scanners will read.

Where is it placed?

Most dogs and cats are microchipped along the dorsal midline, which is just between the shoulder blades. Horses are injected along the left side of the neck, about an inch below the mane. Birds receive the implant in their breast muscles because they have less mass than other animals. These locations make it easier for scanners to find the chips.

Can it migrate in the body?

Usually your pet’s subcutaneous tissue will bond to the chip within 24 hours, preventing it from moving. There are rare instances when a chip migrates elsewhere in the body.

How can I register my pet?

The microchip is only effective if it is programmed with the pet’s contact information. Microchip registries

coordinate with the chip used. You’ll simply make an account and link the chip to your name, phone number and other identifying information. It is important to update this data as needed when you move or get a new phone number.

Microchips, when used in conjunction with collars and ID tags, offer the best protection for pets. (MC) 

Compassionate Approach

Legal Consultation

We understand the physical and emotional toll a dog bite can take. Our compassionate team is dedicated to providing the support and guidance you need during this challenging time.

Receive a thorough review of your case during a free initial consultation. We’ll assess the details, answer your questions, and outline the potential paths to justice.

3. Employees and families of The Signal are

4. The Signal will not enter into a written or oral discussion regarding the contest results, and all entries become the property of The Signal.

5. The Signal reserves the right to publish the results of the reader survey, delete questions, or restructure, and to refuse questionable or duplicate entries.

HOME

How to Keep an AC Unit Running Strong

Air conditioners are a lifeline come the dog days of summer, when soaring temperatures make a well-cooled home a welcome respite from the outdoors. Maintaining an AC unit ensures it will be there to keep everyone cool when the mercury rises. The following are some steps homeowners can take to keep their AC units in tip-top shape this summer.

Replace the air filter on the unit Dirt, dust, debris, and pollen can quickly fill the filter on an AC unit. Replacing these filters prior to summer can make the unit operate more efficiently and keep cool air circulating throughout the house all summer. Homeowners can first identify which type of unit they have and then find an online tutorial to see how to replace the filter. Some filters are more expensive than others, but the cost is still low and the energy savings can be substantial.

Schedule annual maintenance on the unit Rou-

HEALTH

tine maintenance performed by a local HVAC technician is another way to ensure an AC unit is running at peak capacity when it’s most needed. Such maintenance is perhaps most effective in spring, as that ensures the unit is running strong from the first heat wave of the summer all the way through Labor Day. HVAC technicians can identify problems and recommend services that homeowners may not recognize they need until it’s already hot out. Annual maintenance appointments also give HVAC professionals a chance to assess a system compared to the previous year, which can help them identify if a unit is nearing its end. That can ensure homeowners are not caught off guard when the unit needs to replaced.

Help the unit make it through the summer Whether it’s a typical summer or one marked by a handful of heat waves, AC units can use a little help to get through the season. Closing curtains throughout the house on hot afternoons is a nat-

ural way to keep a home cool during a heat wave, and that can cut back on home cooling costs and protect a unit from being overworked. Ceiling fans also can be installed to keep rooms cool and circulate air, which also makes a hot summer a little less taxing on an AC unit.

Use a programmable thermostat Programmable thermostats allow homeowners to set the temperatures inside their homes throughout the day. If no one is home during the afternoon, there’s no reason to have the AC cranking. Program the thermostat so the house is comfortable when people are home, but raise the desired temperature when no one is around. That gives the AC unit a break during the day and can help to dramatically reduce the cost of cooling the home.

AC units will not last forever, but some simple maintenance can improve their life expectancy and keep homes comfortable throughout the summer. (MC) 

Understanding and Knowing the Signs of Heatstroke

Fun in the sun is a big part of the appeal of summer. Outdoor recreation and relaxation kicks up a notch each summer, contributing to a vibe that is as welcoming as it is warm. Summer is indeed all about recreation, but individuals also must remain safe when spending time outdoors. Heatstroke is a potentially deadly condition that can be prevented with some basic knowledge of what it is and how it manifests.

What is heatstroke?

The Mayo Clinic notes that heatstroke is caused by the body overheating. When individuals suffer heatstroke, it is usually because they have been exposed to high temperatures for long periods of time or have been physically exerting themselves in such conditions.

How serious is heatstroke?

The medical examiner’s office in Maricopa County, Arizona noted that heat deaths surged by 50 percent in the city of Phoenix in 2023. Rising temperatures related to climate change have made it less safe to be outdoors on certain days. The risk for heat-related death is serious in places like Phoenix when the mercury rises, but anyone anywhere can succumb to the heat if they are not careful. By no

means are deaths due to heatstroke or other heat-related illnesses exclusive to individuals in traditionally warm locales like Phoenix. Despite that vulnerability, various organizations, including the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, note that heat-related illnesses are preventable. Prevention involves recognition of symptoms prior to going outdoors and a willingness to go inside should any symptoms begin to arise.

Symptoms of heatstroke

Heatstroke can manifest in various ways, producing symptoms that may include:

Elevated body temperature The Mayo Clinic notes that a core body

temperature of 104 F or higher is a main sign of heatstroke.

Altered mental state Someone suffering from heatstroke may begin to feel confused, agitated, irritable, and/ or delirious. In addition, such individuals may begin to behave erratically, which can involve slurred speech.

Changes in sweating patterns People may begin to sweat differently depending on why they are suffering from heatstroke. When heatstroke is brought on by hot weather, a person’s skin will feel hot and dry to the touch, notably leading to a lack of sweat. When heatstroke occurs because of strenuous exercise in hot weather, the skin may feel dry and slightly moist.

Nausea and vomiting

Heatstroke can make people feel sick to their stomach and even induce vomiting. Flushed skin This recognizable symptom is marked by skin turning red as body temperature spikes. Changes in breathing Heatstroke can cause rapid, shallow breathing.

Elevated heart rate The Harvard Medical School notes that the heart experiences stress when the human body sheds heat. That stress can cause the heart to beat faster and pump harder.

Headache

Some people with heatstroke experience a throbbing headache.

Preventing heatstroke

The CDC notes that drinking plenty of water, cooling off in air conditioned rooms, limiting time outdoors on particularly hot days, taking frequent breaks if you must be outside, and wearing light-colored, loose-fitting clothing and sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 15 or higher are some ways to beat the heat and avoid heatstroke.

Heatstroke is a notable, yet preventable threat. Making an effort to avoid heatstroke while spending time outdoors this summer can ensure the season is safe and fun. (MC) 

Transform Your Backyard Into a PGA Tour-Level Lawn

Throughout the year, golf tournaments captivate audiences excited to watch the pros do what they do best: play golf! As viewers tune in to see their favorite athletes compete on pristine golf courses, they may dream of replicating this championship-level fairway quality in their backyard.

Are you ready to turn your backyard into a golfer’s dream? TruGreen, the official lawn care treatment provider of the PGA TOUR, has you covered with these five expert tips to make your lawn as beautiful as a world-class golf course.

The Foundation is Underfoot

The key to a healthy, green lawn is rooted in nutrient-rich soil. Premium soil fosters a healthy lawn that can withstand drought, ward off disease and pests, and develop a deep, sturdy root system.

Although the perfect soil composition varies based on grass type, a well-rounded mix of water, air, minerals, and essential nutrients is crucial.

AMeticulous Mowing Schedule

Lawn care is not a one-size-fits-all solution, and the same goes for mowing schedules. The growth of your grass is influenced by various elements, such as prevailing weather and the local climate conditions. As such, you should plan to keep an eye

on your lawn and mow it as necessary instead of following a specific schedule. For the most effective mow, adjust your mower to its maximum height setting, mow your lawn with sharp blades, and avoid mowing when the grass is damp.

Water is Welcome

When you water your grass, you’re helping transport necessary nutrients around the roots to the grass blades, ensuring they stay alive and healthy. Watering also improves your lawn’s tolerance against normal wear and tear and foot traffic by boosting firmness and supporting seed germination.

Most turf grasses require about 1 inch of water per week via rainfall or intentional watering. A great watering guideline is to prioritize quality over quantity. Essentially, when you water your lawn, focus on the amount of water applied versus the

frequency at which you water.

Don’t Wait to Remove the Weeds

Can you think of anything more annoying than weeds on your lawn? Well, get this: they are likely already disrupting the health of your lawn before you can even spot them.

To keep stubborn weeds at bay, ensure you are maintaining a healthy, dense lawn that doesn’t allow room for weeds to flourish.

Leave it to the Pros

“While your pursuit of the perfect swing might leave little room for taking care of your lawn, you don’t have to give up on your dream outdoor space just yet,” says Brian Feldman, TruGreen’s senior director of technical operations. “TruGreen provides tailored plans to meet your yard’s specific needs year-round so you can spend more time playing on your PGA TOUR-level lawn instead of maintaining it.”

These basic lawn care tips are sure to help get things off the ground, but they are just the beginning of your journey to a PGA TOUR-worthy backyard. For more advanced lawn care tasks such as aeration or pest control, learn more about TruGreen’s lawn care service offerings at TruGreen. com. (BPT) 

SOLUTIONS

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.

READER LETTERS

A Cooked-Up Crisis

The latest study from the New England Journal of Medicine shows no benefit at all from getting the COVID vaccine, in a cohort that is especially vulnerable to getting the virus. This comes on the heels of multiple studies showing that vaccinated patients contracted COVID at a substantially higher rate than those who chose not to get vaccinated, and that relationship gets stronger the more doses the person got.

What a disaster this whole episode has been! Our government cooked up a virus, then lied to us about it, then overreacted to it with ridiculous rules and unconscionable spending, then illegally censored the truth, then forced us to take their experimental vaccine, which didn’t work as advertised at all, and in many ways made it even worse.

Meanwhile masses of left-leaning fools said, “Thanks for keeping us safe!”

Rob

Kerchner

Santa Clarita

Calling Out El Segundo?

What’s up with The Mighty Signal? It gets bigger and better all the time. The El Segundo Progressive Gazette had better watch out.

James Coffey Newhall

Applauding Monument Moment

I am writing from nearby Los Angeles to express my gratitude to President Joe Biden for expanding the San Gabriel Mountains National Monument. These mountains are my backyard and a place where I enjoy hiking and spending time with family and friends. The expanded monument now includes 109,000 acres of one of the most visited parts of the Angeles National Forest and permanently protects beloved places like the Cobb Estate, Eaton Canyon, the historic Sam Merrill Trail, Millard Canyon, and Brown Mountain. Over 18 million people live within a 90-mile radius of these public lands and the expansion helps ensure equitable access to nature for Angelenos. Thank you, President Biden, for heeding calls from Indigenous community leaders and local residents to advance our 20-year vision to permanently protect the San Gabriel Mountains!

Christian

La Mont Los Angeles

ETHICALLY SPEAKING

Protecting Our Freedoms

By David Hegg

As you read this, Memorial Day is just around the corner. I’m sure most of us will enjoy the day off and gather with friends and family for hot dogs, corn on the cob, and all the other joys of being together.

Others will still be on the job, protecting us and keeping the peace, or serving us in stores and shops as we rush to take advantage of the sales. And some will make their way to our city’s Memorial Day celebration and take time to place American flags on the graves of those who made the ultimate sacrifice in battle, giving their lives to protect ours and the freedoms we enjoy.

quently, I dispose of my oil properly, carefully set apart my organics, recycle faithfully, and applaud the fact that our skies are now blue instead of smog-white most of the time like they were during my college days in the 1970s.

But, as COVID-19 proved, our modern-day King George wannabes will never waste a crisis, even if they created it. Regulations and laws are being implemented to remove gas stoves, gas-powered cars, and many other staples of our everyday lives. What gives them the right to do so?

Submit a Letter to the Editor

Include name, address & phone. Anonymous letters aren’t published. E-mail: letters@signalscv.com. Mail: Letters to the Editor, The Signal, 25060 Avenue Stanford, Suite 141, Santa Clarita, CA 91355. Anonymous letters are not published.

But this year, I’m asking you to take some time to reflect on the state of those freedoms, regardless of what else you do.

When the Colonies severed themselves from King George’s will in 1776, a mighty experiment began. For the first time, the world would see a democratic republic where authority did not flow top-down but bottom-up. That is, the will of the ruler would now be subject to the will of the ruled. Around the globe, the idea that government would be “of the people, by the people, and for the people” was mocked and soundly ridiculed by ... you guessed it, those who ruled the nations.

And, for many years, we proved the naysayers wrong. We grew from an experiment given no chance of working into the most prosperous, powerful and helpful nation the world has ever known, and our governmental paradigm became the foundation of democratic republics worldwide.

But at some point, the incremental erosion of our freedoms began, and today, we see its effect. Little by little, and often in huge ways, our freedoms as citizens are being overturned. Governmental mandates have encroached on our everyday lives as those elected to serve us have decided to use fear and pseudoscience to demand our lives fit into their desires for power.

COVID-19 turned out to be an experiment in manufacturing an emergency to gain power. But today, governmental powers have settled on a new way to enter our lives, homes and well-being. It was once referred to as “global warming” until accurate scientific data proved that the warming and cooling of our planet has been going on for millennia. So they changed their terminology to “climate change,” but that was too benign, so now we are supposed to be frightened by “climate crises.”

Before going further, just know that I am a true believer in caring for and protecting the created world. Why? Because it is God’s creation, meant to display his artistry, goodness and love. Conse-

What gives them the right to start billing our electricity based on our income, not on consumption? What gives the insurance commissioner the right to mangle the home insurance industry so that good folks lose insurance on their homes?

The answer is found in the idea that we, the people, have given them power! We have not exercised our power, and into the vacuum, all the little King Georges have snuck back on the throne.

Statistics tell the horrible story that only a tiny fraction of the electorate vote. Too many of us have come to believe that our votes don’t count. And guess what? It is true that if you don’t cast a ballot, your viewpoint won’t count.

Moreover, my clan — people of faith — have often withdrawn from politics. I hear some of them piously say, “Jesus said, ‘My kingdom is not of this world.’” And, while it is true that the material from which the Kingdom of God is built is not of this world, the Kingdom of God is indeed for this world! And if you ever pray the Lord’s Prayer saying, “may your will be done on earth as it is in heaven,” without actually engaging in making that a reality, then you’re playing with a closed mind and closed Bible.

We are full-on into the election season, and even as we look around, we realize our freedoms are slowly being eroded. To mix my metaphors, can you feel the water around you slowly getting warmer and warmer? Well, it’s time to jump out of the pot and into studying the issues, listening to candidates, and understanding who is for freedoms that are moral and not based on personal comfort and convenience. Then, be vocal in supporting those issues and candidates you believe will keep our community and our country on the freedom trail.

As we celebrate Memorial Day, remember and be thankful for the many who thought our freedoms were worth defending. And then, get busy living to uphold those very freedoms they died to protect.

Local resident David Hegg is senior pastor of Grace Baptist Church. “Ethically Speaking” appears Sundays. 