Sunday Signal January 3, 2021

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JANUARY 3, 2021

Riding High into the New Year Page 6

Your News, Entertainment & Lifestyle Source

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SET YOUR FITNESS GOALS FOR 2021

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GETTING TO KNOW ‘THE CLOUD’

16

COMFORT FOODS THAT WARM YOU UP

PLUS : CITY NEWS | OPINION | SCHOOL | ENTERTAINMENT | CALENDAR | HEALTH & FITNESS

J A N UA RY 3, 2021

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 3

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

NEWS FEATURES 5 6 7 8

J A N UA RY 3, 2021

5

Creating low-impact fitness goals for 2021 A best friend and the champion contender When the lights go out in Santa Clarita A difference between ‘service’ and ‘support’

FINANCE 9 9 Prepping for the 2020 tax season

FROM THE MAYOR

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10 Providing an update on COVID-19

FOOD 11 1 1 Comfort foods that are filling and warm the soul Chicken and Rice Casserole Parmesan Stuffed Peppers with Rice

TECHNOLOGY 12 1 2 New gadgets? Tips to improve you Wi-Fi What is cloud storage, how does it work?

ENTERTAINMENT 13 13 The top ten television series of last year

HEALTH & BEAUTY

1 4 Eat and drink smart to fend off cold and flu season Orange Spiced Tea 15 Simple practices to maintain your braces

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GARDENING 16 16 Exploring different backyard structure options

HOME 17 17 Get organized for an envy-worthy garage

AUTOMOTIVE 18 18 A few things to consider when buying a vehicle

SENIOR LIVING

19

KIDS & FAMILY

21

19 How to help aging adults adapt to technology 2 1 Donna’s Day: Flip into the new year with Swedish pancakes Junior Whirl  Guess Who

PUZZLES 22 OPINION 23

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J A N UA RY 3, 2021

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 5

Creating low-impact fitness goals for 2021

N E W S F E AT U R E

By Tammy Murga Signal Staff Writer

W

ith a new year comes new resolutions, and if fitness is on your list, it’s important to set realistic goals — especially if you have arthritis, potential age-related complications or any other factors that might affect mobility.

As one gets older, staying active becomes more important, even if it’s just 30 minutes a day of a low-impact exercise, according to Kaiser Permanente lifestyle educator MariaElena Alberici.

“A good fitness goal for seniors is 20 to 30 minutes of aerobic activity per day,” she said, “and it doesn’t have to be done all at the same time.

Research shows that you can still reap the benefits even if you break it up into two, 15-minute periods.”

Low-impact exercises are those that require one to keep one foot on the ground to avoid pressure or pain on the knees or ankles, further alleviating stress or pressure on one’s joints and promote better coordination.

Some examples include walking, swimming, bicycling or water aerobics, whereas high-impact activities are those that would require one to run, jump or pound the ground frequently, like jumping rope or long-distance runs.

Here are some low-impact activities to try at home or a park, including some you can follow along virtually as taught by Santa Clarita-based instructors.

Yoga

Whether you’re dealing with a chronic condition or recovering from an injury or surgery, yoga is a great way to incorporate as a healing method or as a daily activity.

Yoga can help with back pain relief, improve balance and flexibility, reduce body-wide inflammation and help you sleep better at night, according to officials with Henry Mayo Newhall Hospital Fitness and Health.

Johns Hopkins Medicine, which offers on its website several poses and the benefits of each, offers these low-impact poses: Tree pose Balance on one foot, while holding the other foot to your

Al McPhee, 71, enjoys a beautiful snowy backdrop as he returns to the Valencia Town Center Mall on The Old Road, near Magic Mountain Parkway, during a 20-mile ride to Castaic Lake and back in February 2019. Creating a low-impact exercise routine at home, or in nature, takes a little creativity and not much else, according to the experts. PHOTO BY DAN WATSON / THE SIGNAL

calf or above the knee (but never on the knee) at a right angle. Try to focus on one spot in front of you, while you balance for 1 minute.

Downward Dog pose Get on all fours, then tuck your toes under and bring your sitting bones up, so that you make a triangle shape. Keep a slight bend in your knees, while lengthening your spine and tailbone.

Legs up the Wall pose Sit with your left side against a wall, then gently turn right and lift your legs up to rest against the wall, keeping your back on the floor and your sitting bones close to the wall. You can remain in this position for 5 to 15 minutes.

Chair pilates

If you are limited to work from a chair or with a chair, a 15-minute chair pilates session can help target anything from activating one’s core to flexibility and strength. And the Bella Vida Santa Clarita Valley Senior Center offers weekly, virtual classes to those interested in a quick but effective set of exercises, according to Blyth Birchall, coordinator of daily activities.

“The benefits of chair pilates are

endless: improved posture, better flexibility, and increased muscle strength and balance,” reads the senior center class description.

To start, grab a robust chair and place it in a room with ample space around you and remove your shoes and socks. One exercise to try is single-leg calf raises. Simply place both feet flat on the floor and look straight ahead. Next, raise one foot and lift the heel as high as possible using your toes and then lower the heel back.

Repeat the process for each side by performing two to three sets of 10 repetitions.

Another exercise is conducting seated shoulder presses. With both feet flat on the ground while sitting in your chair, use a set of lightweight dumbbells at your shoulders with your elbows bent. You’ll then want to extend your elbows by pressing your arms straight up before lowering them back to the starting positions.

Repeat the process by performing two to three sets of 10 repetitions.

Tai chi

MariaElena, a certified fitness professional, recommends tai chi for seniors looking for non-impact aerobic exercise.

“The slow movements and deep breathing of tai chi are very beneficial for seniors,” she said. “Research strongly suggests that the practice of tai chi may deliver many health benefits in areas such as mental health, immune system response, and balance and fall prevention.”

“For seniors with frailty or sarcopenia,” she added, “modified tai chi movements can be performed while seated.”

Virtual Tai Chi classes are also a good option for seniors right now due to the stay-at-home orders, she said.

The senior center also offers Tai Chi/Meditation for Good Health classes Tuesdays at 11 a.m. via Zoom.

Attendees can participate while seated, standing, or both.

“If practiced, they may ease arthritis aches and improve core strength, as well as increase flexibility and range of motion,” reads the class description. “Your practice may improve physical balance with your body and mental balance with improved attention and memory.” 

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J A N UA RY 3, 2021

N E W S F E AT U R E

A best friend and the champion contender

By Emily Alvarenga Signal Staff Writer

Left: Sharlena Sarmast, 15, prepares to work out with her 10-year-old horse Caretani Z. PHOTO BY DAN WATSON / THE SIGNAL

S

harlena Sarmast’s true affinity for horses began to show through when she was a little girl.

“It’s the funniest thing: I’d take her to those pony rides at the pumpkin patch, and I literally would run out of money because she would not get off,” her mother, Karen Sarmast, said chuckling. “She’d say, ‘Again!’ and would be laughing.”

Coming from a long line of equestrians in the family, it was only natural that Sharlena would begin riding as soon as she was old enough.

“My grandfather rode, my husband’s father rode and my father rode,” Karen added, “so I think she got it from both sides.”

Moreover, Sharlena remembers watching her mom, who also grew up riding, compete in equestrian dressage.

“My mom introduced me to it when I was younger, so I just took it on really,” Sharlena said.

Learning to get back on the horse When she was quite young, Sharlena had a bad fall off a horse, and spent the next couple of years too nervous to get back in the saddle.

“Then, my mom got me a little mini-pony,” Sharlena recalled. “She wanted to bring me back (to horses) because she was like, ‘I know she loves it.’”

Slowly, Sharlena began her reintroduction to horses and was able to rediscover her passion.

“Eventually, I was like, ‘OK, I want to try it now,’ and I did — and then I ended up liking it more and more,” Sharlena added.

At 9, Sharlena began riding again, and by 10, she was competing professionally. Now at 15, she’s a U.S. Equestrian Federation show jumping junior competitor for the California region.

Leaping into the pros Four years ago, Sharlena got Caretani Z, a 10-year-old Holsteiner imported from Germany, and the pair began working hard to get into the show ring.

Right Sharlena Sarmast and her horse Caretani Z competing at the 2020 Del Mar International Horse Show. PHOTO COURTESY JULIA B

“We got him when he was 6, so he was a little green and hyper,” Karen said. “They grew up together … it’s been nice to see.”

Sharlena agreed, adding, “My old trainer used to say that it’s really tough (riding a younger horse) because they’re so green, and they don’t know what they’re doing and you’ve got to kind of guide them … (but) I like growing with them, learning together.”

Since then, she and Caretani have formed a bond that’s unmatched by other horses she’s competed with, including a mare she won with in recent competitions, she said.

“I did really well on her, and we won a lot of stuff, but I didn’t really have that connection and I didn’t really enjoy it as much, but with him it’s more enjoyable,” Sharlena added.

Though her mother competed in dressage, Sharlena said she’d always been drawn to show jumping.

“I tried other things, but I didn’t really like them as much,” she said.

“In show jumping, you’re going really fast, you’ve got that adrenaline pumping. … It’s really fun.”

“She likes the thrill,” Karen added, calling Sharlena a bit of a daredevil.

The Sarmasts recently moved

up to Canyon Country so Sharlena could be closer to Summerland Farms Inc. in Sand Canyon and Caretani, along with her trainer Mike Hebert.

“Now we can come to the barn, and she can be with the horses longer,” Karen said. “We’re just excited because it’s our first year with this team.”

For Sharlena, the move is the perfect opportunity for her to continue advancing.

“Now I’m ready to move up and take (on a) more advanced level,” she said. “I just like the positive energy here. Mike’s really good. He explains a lot of things thoroughly, and I’ve learned so much with him … and I’m enjoying it, too.”

More time, more training Since COVID-19 hit, Sharlena used her spare quarantine time focused on training and riding more than ever.

That dedication showed through when Sharlena was given her first opportunity to compete again in July, winning champion of the 1 meter jumpers in a two-day competition sponsored by Tex Sutton Equine Transportation at the Show-

park Summer Festival at Blenheim Equisports in San Juan Capistrano.

“That’s my favorite show, because it was a nice comeback,” Sharlena said.

“Her trainer said, ‘Just get in there and do what you have to do because you haven’t been to the show in six months,’ so she got in there, and she didn’t knock and she won — it was a great way to start,” Karen added.

Sharlena quickly began to get her rhythm back as competitions began springing up again. “(Caretani) was really good, but this year, we were able to travel and travel and travel, and he even got better — they both did — so we’re happy,” Karen said.

Now, as Sharlena prepares for her next competition in Canada in January, with team members to mentor and inspire her, Sharlena is looking at the future with bright eyes.

“My goal is to move up and move up faster,” she added. “My barn mate is doing 1.45 meter, so I want to get to that level and be able to do really well. She tries to give me tips on how to improve, which is awesome.” 

J A N UA RY 3, 2021

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 7

When the lights go out in Santa Clarita

N E W S F E AT U R E

By Caleb Lunetta Signal Staff Writer

T

he Santa Clarita Valley is no stranger to Public Safety Power Shutoffs, a move by Southern California Edison that cuts off electricity to certain areas in order to avoid the chance of a fire breaking out if a power utility line goes down.

Multiple fires in recent years have been started by power lines dropping to the ground while still having a current running through them, and some have been within the SCV. As a result, Southern California Edison, who oversee the electrical operations for the SCV region, have implemented a system that looks at a combination of weather and fuel patterns in given areas before deciding to shut off the electricity.

Since 2017, Public Safety Power Shutoffs, or PSPS, have been an arrow in the quiver of local power officials, said Don Daingler, director of business resiliency for SoCal Edison, earlier this year. He said that, each year, SoCal Edison has strived to get better at implementing the shutoffs.

“If we’re trying to make a decision about shutting power off, we want to be as surgical as we possibly can, literally down not just to the circuit, but now to the sub-circuit level,” said Daingler.

However, the Public Safety Power Shutoffs aren’t set by convenience — rather, they occur whenever Edison officials deem them necessary, even during the holidays.

Only in 2020

Officials from Southern California Edison said on Christmas Eve nearly 193,410 Los Angeles County customers were considered for shutoffs, wrapping up a year that has been wrought with unexpected challenges.

“The safety of our communities is paramount and because there was an elevated risk of fire, due high winds and dry conditions in wildfire prone areas, SCE initiated Public Safety Power Shutoffs (PSPS) earlier today,” said Reggie Kumar, a spokesman for SoCal Edison, who added that dangerous winds in the area prompted the monitoring of large swaths of the Canyon Country-area over Christmas Eve.

A workman in a cherry picker works on power lines that were blown down in high winds in Newhall in 2019. The controversial Public Safety Power Shutoffs program is intended to save lives and property, but it can put a huge inconvenience upon residents without power. (Right) PHOTO BY DAN WATSON / THE SIGNAL (Left) PHOTO BY BOBBY BLOCK / THE SIGNAL

According to Kumar, if power is to be shut off at any time by SoCal Edison, customers will be alerted ahead of time.

“We understand these PSPS actions are disruptive to all of our customers and communities, and that they are especially tough on the communities that have been facing this continuing wildfire threat over the last two months and through this year’s holiday season – which we know has brought many challenges to our communities,” said Kumar. “With the escalating Covid-19 health crisis and stay at home orders, protecting communities from this fire threat is more important than ever, and SCE may need to implement Public Safety Power Shutoffs because of the elevated fire risk in wildfire prone areas.”

Community crew

If the power goes out in your area due to one of these PSPS, there are a number of things and activities residents are advised to do by SoCal Edison.

Edison customers can use an online, interactive map on sce.com/ psps, to see if their community is being monitored for a potential shutoff, or if their area is “de-energized”. Customers can also enter their address to see information related to their residence or other locations.

Additionally, the SCE Community Crew Vehicles are set up in areas that have seen their power shutoff and can

provide residents with PSPS information, snacks, water and personal protection equipment.

Additionally, those concerned with their safety should attempt to stay off the roads or drive in PSPS areas.

In the event that power is shut off in the area, residents are encouraged to stay home with their families, and engage in non-electric based entertainment such as reading, playing board games and/or card games.

Kumar also advised residents to use flashlights instead of candles to avoid fire hazards in your home or business.

“Should a shutoff occur, we will attempt to restore power to these customers within 24 hours after the weather event ends, and after crews inspect the lines and determine it is safe to re-energize,” said Kumar.

Power up on your own

While the wildfire threat in the Santa Clarita Valley can’t be ignored, and that the conditions for this holiday season with the fire danger being ever present, the outages could happen again, so it’s not a bad idea to plan ahead if you’re able to, if your home receives a notice from SoCal Edison that a shutoff might be looming.

Unfortunately, there aren’t a lot of options outside of buying or renting a generator. The latter, in an emergency, might be a tough find.

According to a recent interview

with a Home Depot employee, the Valencia store saw a significant run on power generators right after the most recent shutoffs were announced, with about 50 of the $850-plus Generac generators selling in one day.

The store still has a few left as of Tuesday, but supplies are going fast and it’s a good idea to check the store first.

As far as recommendations for purchase with the generator, a Home Depot team member suggested getting a five-gallon gas can, extension cords and a surge protector if you’re going to go the generator route.

As far as size and wattage, it depends on how many appliances you’re trying to run, and your budget. The smaller generators, which can start at around $200-$300, might get you by if you’re not a techie or someone with a lot of equipment that needs powering, as the Champion Power Equipment has a $300 3,550-watt generator available at Bass Pro Shops that can be ordered online and picked up in stores. (For reference, a refrigerator generally uses about 1,000 watts, and TV uses approximately 200 watts.)

However, the timing and location are everything, when it comes to finding a deal. The popular model selling in-store at Home Depot right after the PSPS announcement was the store’s top-rated 6,500-watt Generac model, which runs about $850. 

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J A N UA RY 3, 2021

N E W S F E AT U R E

A difference between ‘service’ and ‘support’ introduced a bill that would provide even more protection for service dogs.

Assembly Bill 169 would ensure that any harm done to a service dog would result in restitution payments and a criminal misdemeanor, regardless of whether the dog is on duty or not during the incident. If passed, the bill states that the convicted party could be liable to payments up to $10,000 to the owner of the service dog along with up to a year in county jail.

By Emily Alvarenga Signal Staff Writer

I

f it seems like there are more service dogs than ever before accompanying their owners into coffee shops, grocery stores and restaurants, it’s because there are.

A 2015 study at the University of California, Davis found number of assistance dogs registered by animal control facilities in California has increased by 1,000 percent between 2002-12.

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) states that service animals are allowed to accompany their owner anywhere that the public is normally allowed to go.

But what exactly is a service dog?

Over the years, dogs have been filling a growing number of jobs supporting people with various disabilities, both visible and invisible.

John Anthony, a cynologist and the director of training at Redemption Road K9, a working dog company, has studied dog emotion and cognition, as well as animal behavior, and says a dog can be trained to do almost anything.

Whether it’s sniffing out allergens, alerting a diabetic to changes in their blood sugar, calming someone with autism or anxiety, or guiding the blind or deaf, service dogs are trained to complete specific tasks according to their owner’s needs.

Dogs can also help alleviate symp-

Bumble Bee

What’s the harm?

Tanya Yarbrough and her service dog Rambo, a Chihuahua and Rat Terrier mix.

Rambo has been trained to sniff out gluten for Yarbrough’s celiac dIsease. PHOTO COURTESY TANYA YARBROUGH

toms of emotional or mental distress.

Through companionship and affection, dogs can support those with mental disorders like depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, obsessive compulsive disorder and panic disorders, according to Dr. Kathy Peters, a local vet.

“What most don’t know is that there’s a difference — and it’s a big one,” Peters said.

Emotional support animals (ESA) and therapy dogs do not receive the same protection under the ADA and therefore are not considered service dogs.

The ADA limits the definition of a “service animal” to dogs that are trained to “do work or perform tasks for people with disabilities.” The act also states that “dogs whose sole function is to provide comfort or emotional support do not qualify as service animals under the ADA.” “This means that a dog that is trained to calm someone suffering from an anxiety attack is considered a service dog, while a dog whose mere presence calms a person is not,” Peters said. “The bottom line is that if the dog has been professionally trained to assist its owner, it’s a service dog.”

Bumble Bee, a 5-year-old Cane Corso, is a trained service dog who can do deep pressure therapy during her owner’s panic attacks to calm her down. PHOTO COURTESY JULIE JONES

Deputy Kevin Duxbury of the Los Angeles County Sheriff ’s Department says he has often responded to calls concerning whether ESA have the same rights as service dogs.

“The fact is that they don’t,” Duxbury said. “It’s something you see around town quite a lot, and the difference is that service animals have extensive training and costs thousands of dollars while comfort animals are classified as pets.”

Tanya Yarbrough, a dog trainer and the owner of Kazzi Dog Training, says the amount of training required for a service dog is tremendous. It takes at least 18 months to properly train a dog obedience and socialization while also preparing them for the numerous distractions they will face, Yarbrough said.

Whether it’s someone who legitimately has an ESA or someone who pretends their pet is a service dog so they can bring them everywhere, both can cause damage and harm to service dogs and their reputation.

Is it really illegal?

Laws are changing nationwide to combat the growing number of “fake” service dogs, but they have yet to change in California. In fact, they’ve been the same since 1995.

Penal Code 365.7 states that those pretending to be the owner of a service dog is a criminal misdemeanor with a penalty of up to $1,000 or six months in jail.

At the beginning of the year, Assemblyman Tom Lackey, R-Palmdale,

Acquiring a service-dog vest is simple. They can be bought on Amazon or at a pet shop, and because the ADA does not require any registration, licensing or documentation of service animals, it’s hard to know for sure if the dog is actually a service dog.

“People can buy these fake certificates online and show them as “proof ” that their animal is a service animal,” said Julie Jones, the owner of service dog Bumble Bee. “It causes uneducated employees who don’t know the laws to think that a certificate is required for anyone with a service dog, and because I don’t have one, I’ve been turned away.”

Bumble Bee, a 5-year-old Cane Corso, is a trained service dog who is able to retrieve medication, do deep-pressure therapy during panic attacks and calmly block people from getting too close to Jones while she’s having an attack.

Jones says she and Bumble Bee have been denied access to numerous places.

“They either weren’t sure if it was okay to allow us or they didn’t want to allow us due to previous experiences they’ve had with poorly behaved “service” dogs,” Jones said.

“I’ve also been denied access before due to my dog’s breed, size and intimidating appearance even though any breed of dog can be a service dog if they have the right temperament, drive to work and training.”

Rambo, a Chihuahua, Rat Terrier mix who had been trained to sniff out gluten for Yarbrough’s celiac disease, has also been denied access because of his size.

See SERVICE, page 20

J A N UA RY 3, 2021

FINANCE

Prepping for the 2020 tax season

I

t’s no secret that 2020 has been a tumultuous year. Many Americans found themselves out of work — at least temporarily — and received unemployment benefits. Others may have experienced employment changes, like working from home or taking on multiple jobs. All of these factors will have even more of an impact come time to file income taxes on tax day.

“For many, the 2020 tax season will likely look different,” says Mark Steber, chief tax information officer at Jackson Hewitt Tax Services. “The pandemic brought unexpected, overwhelming changes.”

To help you prepare and get the maximum tax refund you deserve, Steber offers the following tax tips.

1. Understand how unemployment benefits work If you received unemployment benefits this year, it may have been for the first time. Make sure you’re aware of how they affect your taxes.

Unemployment benefits are taxable and must be reported to the IRS on your tax return. Taxable benefits also include any special compensation authorized under the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act earlier last year. That means if you did not withhold enough taxes from your unemployment benefits, you could see a big tax bill or a much smaller tax refund than you normally receive.

Unemployment benefits can affect tax credits. Unemployment is considered unearned income, so it won’t count toward certain credits. For example, you must have earned income to qualify for the Child Tax Credit or the Earned Income Tax Credit. Additionally, your adjusted gross income must be below certain levels to get certain credits.

2. Set money aside to cover unexpected taxes If you received unemployment benefits and did not withhold any federal or state income tax, you’ll need to pay tax on that money. To prepare, consider setting money aside even now to cover those taxes and brace yourself for a much smaller refund or no refund at all this tax season.

3. Take advantage of possible deductions Every taxpayer will get a charitable

donation deduction for 2020. Make a list of any IRS-approved donations you made this year and locate any receipts.

Whether itemizing or taking the standard deduction, under the CARES Act, all taxpayers are eligible to deduct up to $300 worth of monetary donations to qualified organizations.

And while many Americans have been working at home for months, a home office deduction is not guaranteed. The home office deduction is only available to those who are self-employed.

4. Consider major life changes Life goes on, even during a pandemic, and life changes can bring sizeable tax implications. Some changes that cause the biggest impact include getting married or divorced, having a baby or adopting a child, buying or selling property, retiring, or starting a business. If you experienced any of these events in 2020, know that your return will look different.

5. Keep track of your important documents Even if your taxes won’t be affected by unemployment, make sure you gather all your documents, such as W-2 forms and 1099s for interest dividends and even retirement distributions. Remember to include the Notice 1444 you received with your stimulus check for your 2020 tax records. Collect your charitable contribution totals, mortgage interest, property taxes you’ve paid, and any additional state and local income taxes paid for the year.

If you were furloughed and able to pick up a temporary job, gather your W-2s for each job you worked. If you worked a side gig, make sure to keep a record of your income, the miles you drove, and any additional expenses. And if you’re not filing single, be on the lookout for family members that may have been impacted to make your tax return more complicated.

No matter your 2020 situation, follow these tips to prepare for any unexpected tax implications.

For more information and help during the 2020 tax season, visit jacksonhewitt.com. (BPT) 

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 9

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J A N UA RY 3, 2021

F R O M T H E M AY O R

Providing an update on COVID-19 in our region

By Bill Miranda Santa Clarita Mayor

T

he Southern California region is facing 0% ICU capacity and the highest number of coronavirus cases we have seen since the start of the pandemic. In the past month, hospitals in Los Angeles County — including Henry Mayo Newhall Hospital — have seen both COVID-19 case numbers and hospitalization figures drastically increase.

The week before Christmas, I had the opportunity to talk with our local healthcare heroes at Henry Mayo Newhall Hospital to discuss how the pandemic is impacting hospital operations and what we can do as residents to lessen the strain on our healthcare facilities.

During this conversation, which was streamed on Facebook Live and can still be viewed in the “Videos” section of the City of Santa Clarita’s Facebook page, I wanted to convey how grateful we are for their unwavering commitment to serving our community.

The doctors, nurses, administrators and hospital staff have worked around the clock, facing un-

imaginable circumstances in this pandemic over the past 10 months.

While our healthcare heroes fight this battle every day, they rely on the community to do our part as well. The best way we can support our healthcare workers is to follow all safety protocols and continue to wear masks when we leave home or are around people who don’t live in our immediate household.

We have collectively done this for months now, and are starting to get a glimpse at the light at the end of the tunnel. As we saw on December 17, Henry Mayo received its first shipment of the COVID-19 vaccine and began vaccinating frontline staff caring for patients in the COVID-19 unit. The arrival of the vaccine has provided a tremendous boost to morale because it signals the end of the pandemic is in sight and lives will be saved.

The supply of vaccine at the hospital is being distributed in accordance with California state guidelines and began with doctors, nurses and staff. Henry Mayo Newhall Hospital President Roger E. Seaver noted in our meeting that he is hopeful vaccine supply levels will increase soon so the hospital can begin to distribute it to the

wider community.

Rest assured that the phased rollout of the vaccine will result in critical vaccination doses for the most vulnerable individuals in our community first. While we wait for widespread availability for all residents, we will continue to follow health orders to minimize the risk of spreading the coronavirus.

Lastly, I want to send my thanks to the residents of Santa Clarita because you have continued to support all of our frontline healthcare workers since the early days of the pandemic. Thank you for making donations of critical supplies, sending food and keeping the staff in your prayers.

We can all agree that no matter what they need from us, we will always be here to support the amazing team at Henry Mayo Newhall Hospital and all healthcare facilities in Santa Clarita. I know that by continuing to listen to these heroes and following public health guidelines, we will finally put an end to this pandemic.

Mayor Bill Miranda is a member of the Santa Clarita City Council and can be reached at bmiranda@ 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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J A N UA RY 3, 2021

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 1 1

FOOD

Comfort foods that are filling and warm the soul

J

ust the thought of comfort foods is often enough to warm the soul, especially as cool winds blow and temperatures drop.

When cooler weather calls for hearty meals to give your family a warming boost, you can turn to simple shortcuts for comforting flavor without skipping on quality.

It’s hard to go wrong with a casserole on a chilly day. This Chicken and Rice Casserole with Spinach and Mushrooms is made with simple ingredients you probably already have on hand. Because it takes just 20 minutes to make, this recipe is easy to put on the table quickly and may become a new family favorite. Plus, you only use a couple of dishes to prepare, which makes for a simple cleanup after a filling meal.

Parmesan Stuffed Peppers with Rice is the perfect recipe if you are looking for a tasty dish that’s a little outside the box. It’s an Italian spin on a classic dish using a variety of cheeses packed into colorful bell peppers.

You can preheat the oven while completing the minimal preparation then bake to a bubbling, golden perfection.

The convenience, taste, texture and quality of Success Brown Rice as one of the main ingredients in these recipes helps make mealtime a cinch. In fact, any variety can be used in this recipe, including white rice, quinoa and more. Its “Boil-in-Bag” cooking process provides a satisfying shortcut as you simply add water to a saucepan, drop the BPA-free bag into the water, boil for 10 minutes and remove

with a fork for a no mess, no measure timesaver.

Visit SuccessRice.com for more comfort food recipes. (Family Features)

Chicken and Rice Casserole with Spinach and Mushrooms Prep time: 10 minutes Cook time: 10 minutes Servings: 4 1 bag Success Brown Rice 1/2 cup ricotta cheese 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 1 1/3 2 1/2 1/4 4 2 1/2 1/2

tablespoon chopped Italian parsley tablespoon olive oil cup chopped onions garlic cloves, minced package (4 ounces) mushrooms, sliced cup white wine cups baby spinach leaves cups shredded, cooked chicken breast teaspoon salt teaspoon black pepper

Prepare rice according to package directions. In small bowl, combine ri-

Parmesan Stuffed Peppers with Rice

Prep time: 15 minutes Cook time: 30 minutes Servings: 6 2 bags Success Brown Rice 2 cups (or 1 can, 15 ounces) tomato sauce, divided 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided 1/4 cup basil pesto 3 large bell peppers in assorted colors, halved lengthwise 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, thinly sliced Preheat oven to 425 F. Prepare rice according to package directions.

Add 1 1/2 cups tomato sauce to greased 13-by-9-

cotta, Parmesan and parsley; reserve.

In large skillet over medium heat, heat oil. Add onions and garlic; saute 2 minutes. Add mushrooms and wine to skillet. Continue cooking 3 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add spinach and chicken. Stir until spinach is wilted and chicken is heated through, about 2 minutes. Stir in rice, salt and pepper.

Serve casserole topped with dollops of reserved cheese mixture. 

inch baking dish. In bowl, toss rice with remaining tomato sauce, 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese and pesto.

Divide rice mixture evenly among peppers. Place stuffed peppers in prepared baking dish. Sprinkle mozzarella and remaining Parmesan cheese over peppers.

Cover with foil; bake 18-20 minutes, or until peppers are tender, filling is heated through and cheese is melted. Remove foil. Broil 3-5 minutes, or until cheese is golden brown. Garnish with fresh basil.

Substitutions Use fontina or provolone for mozzarella cheese and olive tapenade for basil pesto. 

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J A N UA RY 3, 2021

TECHNOLOGY

New gadgets? Tips to improve Wi-Fi around the house

S

peedy, reliable internet is something people have quickly grown accustomed to.

That’s no doubt why dropped Wi-Fi signals can be so frustrating.

Various things can contribute to slow or interrupted Wi-Fi. As a result, there’s no one-size-fits-all solution to address underperforming Wi-Fi. But that’s good news, as it means there’s an assortment of strategies that consumers can try to improve the Wi-Fi in their homes.

Upgrade your router

Many people rent their routers from their internet service providers, but it may surprise some to learn that they can buy their own.

Buying your own router can be beneficial in various ways, not the least of which is it can save money.

Router rental fees vary, but they typically cost between $10 and $15 per month. Consumers will save money in the long run by buying their own router rather than renting one from their ISP. When buying their own routers, consumers also can pick from a host of options, including routers with strong performance ratings that may contribute to better Wi-Fi performance.

Set up automatic firmware updates

It’s easy to forget a router after it’s been plugged in and internet service starts working. However, manufacturers routinely issue firmware updates to improve router performance.

Turning on automatic updates may improve Wi-Fi performance, and such updates also can provide a host of additional benefits, including added security measures.

Relocate the router

PCMag.com notes that the location of the router can affect Wi-Fi performance. If possible, locate the router in the center of the home so it can easily reach all parts of the house.

Locating wireless routers away from walls and other obstructions also may improve performance.

Switch frequencies

Switching frequencies can help wireless consumers whose service might be adversely affected by congestion. Consumer Reports notes that wireless congestion can affect Wi-Fi performance in apartment buildings and densely populated neighborhoods.

In such instances, consumers can check their routers to see if they’re

running on the 2.4 GHz frequency band. If so, switching them to the 5 GHz band, which has more channels and is likely to be less congested, may improve Wi-Fi performance.

Slow and/or interrupted Wi-Fi signals can be very frustrating. Thankfully, various strategies can help consumers quickly remedy such issues.

(MC) 

What is cloud storage and how does it work? though it’s been available for many years, figures to become a bigger part of people’s daily lives in the coming years. That likelihood means now is as good a time as any for consumers to familiarize themselves with cloud storage.

What is cloud storage?

T

echnology advances at such a rapid pace that it can be hard for consumers to keep up. Something that maybe didn’t exist as recently as a few years ago may already be considered obsolete, while some solutions that were on the periphery for years may suddenly become vital to how individuals and businesses operate.

Cloud storage likely qualifies as something that,

According to Amazon Web Services, cloud storage is a computing model that stores data on the internet through a cloud computing provider who manages and operates data storage as a service. Items stored on cloud storage services can be accessed on demand and access is available anytime, anywhere.

How does cloud storage work?

Third party cloud vendors sell and manage storage capacity. So the relationship between cloud storage customer and vendor is not all that dissimilar than the customer-proprietor relationship when renting a physical storage unit to store items people can’t or don’t want to store in their homes. In return for a fee, cloud storage vendors manage data storage infrastructure, including security and durability.

But unlike physical storage units, cloud storage customers won’t have to drive to the outskirts of town to access their data like they might if they want to bring that old couch back into their homes.

Rather, cloud storage enables convenient, instant access to data. All users need to do is log in.

Is cloud storage secure?

According to SearchStorage.com, a website designed by the B2B marketing services vendor TechTarget, cloud storage security has concerned users since the early days of the technology. However, as cloud storage technology has advanced, so, too, have its security capabilities. For example, AWS notes that all cloud storage data is ideally encrypted, both at rest and in storage. Permissions and access controls should work just as well in the cloud as they do for on premises storage.

More and more individuals and businesses are utilizing cloud storage to house their data. Understanding the technology and how it can benefit users can help calm any concerns people may have about storing files on the cloud. (MC) 

J A N UA RY 3, 2021

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 1 3

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

The top ten television series of last year

By Richard Roeper Signal Contributing Writer

O

ver the last few years, I’ve added an increasing number of TV shows to my review schedule as streaming platforms such as Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, Amazon Prime and the good old-fashioned broadcast networks churn out massive amounts of content. This is the Platinum Age of Television, and while it would be impossible to keep up with every new series, I sifted through more than 100 titles that debuted in 2020, and these were my absolute favorites.

10. ‘The Flight Attendant’

Kaley Cuoco (“The Big Bang Theory”) has the role of a lifetime as Cassie Bowden, a hot-mess of a flight attendant who wakes up in a luxury hotel suite in Bangkok and discovers the dashing stranger she hooked up with the night before is now a dashing, blood-spattered corpse. How that happened is a genuine mystery to Cassie, who remembers very little of the night before. For the remainder of this limited series, Cassie tries to stay one step ahead of investigators while doing her own sleuthing with the help of the dead guy (Michiel Huisman), who lives inside her head as a sounding board and confidante.

“The Flight Attendant” is wickedly funny throughout and becomes surprisingly deep and poignant.

See it: On HBO Max

9. ‘Big Sky’

David E. Kelley (“The Practice,” “Ally McBeal,” “Big Little Lies”) delivered an addictively lurid 10-part series to ABC, which means you have to wait A WHOLE ENTIRE WEEK for the next episode, can you believe that!

It’s been worth the wait every week.

This is a beautifully filmed, well-acted modern Western noir, with Katheryn Winnick and Kylie Bunbury killing it as frenemies who must put aside their differences as they investigate a possible kidnapping ring. The veteran character actor John Carroll Lynch gives one of the finest performances of his career as a Montana state trooper who has some, shall we say, unusual views on law and order.

See it On abc.com, on Hulu and on demand.

8. ‘NeXt’

John Slattery is one of those actors who elevates everything he’s in, and in the Fox sci-fi thriller procedural “NeXt,” Slattery has his best role since Roger Sterling in “Mad Men.” There’s nothing particularly original in the premise of this Chicago-made show, but the writing is superb, and Slattery is commanding as a Steve Jobs-esque, socially awkward tech genius named Paul LeBlanc, who has a rare condition that causes excruciating headaches, hallucinations and deep paranoia, which makes it a tough sell when he’s trying to persuade an FBI cybercrime unit there’s an A.I. running amok out there and trying to destroy the world as we know it. “NeXt” is that rare thriller that handles the evolving human relationships at least as well as the action-driven main story.

See it On Hulu.

7. ‘Fear City’

This year brought about a bounty of fantastic docuseries, from “McMillions” to “Trial by Media” to “The Vow” to “Tiger King” to “Be Water” to “Atlanta’s Missing and Murdered: The Lost Children.” If I were doing a Top 25 list, all of those titles would be on the list.

As it is, we have three documentaries in my Top 10, starting with this three-part series from Netflix about the five crime families that ruled nearly every inch of New York City business in the 1970s and 1980s — and the local and federal government officials who worked tirelessly for years and implemented some wildly creative tactics worthy of a Scorsese movie in the biggest investigation of the Mafia in U.S. history. Fascinating stuff.

See it On Netflix.

6. ‘Bridgerton’

The terrific and prolific Shonda Rhimes (“Grey’s Anatomy,” “Scandal,” “How to Get Away With Murder”) hits a glossy home run in her first series for Netflix, which plays like an early 19th-century ancestor of “Downton Abbey,” but with a lot more diversity and a LOT more sex. Completely preposterous and wonderfully anachronistic, “Bridgerton” features gorgeous people in gorgeous settings doing mostly ugly things to one another, much to our shock and delight.

See it On Netflix.

5. ‘High Fidelity’

Two decades after Lisa Bonet had a supporting role in the Chicagoset, John Cusack-starring feature film “High Fidelity,” Bonet’s daughter Zoe Kravitz added another A+ performance to her already impressive resume in this gender-switching, modern reboot limited series, which moved the story to New York. Kravitz is an electric presence as Rob, who owns a record stwore in Brooklyn and is absolutely sure of her taste in music, but on wobbly ground when it comes to making decisions about lifestyle and relationships. “High Fidelity” was one of those series that improved with nearly every episode, but alas, Hulu has pulled the plug after one season.

See it On Hulu.

4. ‘The Wilds’

Arguably the biggest surprise of 2020 TV. On the surface, Amazon’s “The Wilds” sounds like a young adult version of “Lost” meets “The Truman Show,” as a diverse group of teenage girls is stranded on a desert island after their plane crashes, and they must resolve their differences and work together — or perish. But show creator Sarah Streicher, the stellar team of writers and the stunningly good ensemble cast have delivered a smart, bold and poignant drama with more than a half-dozen complex and authentic characters. “The Wilds” is an empathetic portrayal of the myriad challenges faced by teenage girls in today’s world.

See it On Amazon Prime Video.

3. ‘I’ll Be Gone in the Dark’

The late Michelle McNamara’s “I’ll Be Gone in the Dark,” the story of the author’s obsession with unmasking the Golden State Killer, was a critical and commercial sensation, and just maybe the best true crime book since Truman Capote’s “In Cold Blood.” Thanks to the efforts of the great documentary director Liz Garbus (“Ghosts of Abu Ghraib,” “The Fourth Estate”), McNamara’s widower, Patton Oswalt, and a group of professional and amateur sleuths, the limited series of the same name was just as compelling.

See it On HBO Max.

2. ‘The Queen’s Gambit’

Raise your hand if you anticipated a coming-of-age, period-piece drama

about a female chess prodigy in the 1950s and 1960s becoming perhaps the most addictive and binge-worthy series of 2020. Showrunners Scott Frank and Allan Scott captivated millions of instant fans with this limited series starring Anya Taylor-Joy in an Emmy-worthy performance as one Beth Harmon, a troubled chess genius who becomes a global sensation and overcomes sexism at every turn, creating havoc and engaging in self-destructive behavior nearly every step of the way. From the exquisitely perfect sets to the fantastic use of nearly forgotten pop hits such as “Along Comes Mary” by the Association to the cool use of CGI to demonstrate the beautiful mind of Beth, “The Queen’s Gambit” was must-see TV. See it On Netflix.

1. ‘The Last Dance’

From the moment promos started airing in 2018 for EPSN’s 10-part docuseries about Michael Jordan and the 1990s Bulls dynasty, Chicago and the basketball world were jumping out of their collective sneakers in anticipation.

Originally slated to debut in the summer of 2020 to coincide with the scheduled NBA Finals, “The Last Dance” was moved up to the spring to fill the void left by the pandemic-postponed season.

To say we were hooked is like saying Dennis Rodman was slightly unconventional. Even though we knew the ending, “The Last Dance” was a great sports film, a celebration of basketball brilliance and a tantalizingly effective drama, with Michael Jordan as the larger-than-life, deeply flawed but undisputed king of the court (and the locker room and the bus, and the present-day record of how things went down). Decades after the fact, Jordan was more competitive, dredging up old rivalries, real and self-created, than many pro athletes are on game day.

“The Last Dance” was the perfect series for those early, uncertain, harrowing weeks of the pandemic, when we weren’t sure of what was around the corner. For two hours on five consecutive Sundays, we could take great comfort in escaping into a world of basketball heroes and villains, who were sometimes one and the same. 

Copyright 2020 Chicago Sun-Times

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J A N UA RY 3, 2021

H E A LT H & B E A U T Y

Eat and drink smart to fend off cold and flu season

I

t’s no secret that a balanced diet with plenty of fruits and veggies can deliver important vitamins and nutrients for better health, but many of your favorite foods can actually help support your immune system, too.

In addition to precautions like avoiding people who are sick and washing your hands often, you can influence your immune system through what you eat and drink.

Stay hydrated Keeping well hydrated can be difficult during the winter months, especially if you spend most of your time indoors. A warm drink like this flavorful Orange Spiced Tea provides a strong dose of vitamin C along with a delicious dose of hydration.

Keep the produce going strong Fresh, seasonal fruits and veggies often come to mind during warmer months, but produce like citrus, leafy greens and root vegetables are plentiful during cold and flu season, too.

“Consuming the whole fruit is the best way to ensure you gain the maximum nutritional benefit,” Dr. Poonam Desai said. “When speaking with patients, I recommend seeking nutrients like vitamin C from whole food sources, rather than supplements, especially with a vitamin C-rich fruit like California oranges.”

Get a natural boost of vitamins Vitamins A and C, found in fresh citrus, are two key nutrients that support your body’s natural line of defense, your immune system. Just one orange offers 90% of the daily recommended value of vitamin C, and California Navel oranges are in their peak season - just in time for the height of cold and flu season.

Get inspired with more ideas to boost your immune system with essential vitamins and nutrients at califor niacitrusgrowers.com.

Eat and drink smart.

Eat lots of fruits and vegetables, and increase your intake of fruits high in vitamin C. PHOTO CREDIT GETTY IMAGES

for citrus, choose fruit that smells fresh and feels heavy for its size. The heavier the orange, the juicer it’s likely to be.

• Pick heavy fruit. When shopping

• Explore versatility. Fresh citrus like California Navel oranges make a nutritious addition to sweet and savory dishes, beverages, cocktails, sauces and more.

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• Use the whole fruit. Reduce food waste by consuming the flesh, juice, zest and peel. Try squeezing juice and grating zest into a smoothie, using orange segments for a vibrant salad or combining diced Navels with red

Ways to get more vitamin C

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onion, cilantro and jalapenos for a zesty salsa.

• Retain vitamin C content. Vitamin C is water soluble, so to retain as much as possible, eat citrus fresh, avoid overcooking and use minimal amounts of water.

• Refrigerate for longer shelf life.

Keep your citrus fresh longer by storing it in the refrigerator at a temperature below 42 F. To get the most juice out of the orange, bring it to room temperature before cooking. (Family Features) 

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Orange Spiced Tea Recipe courtesy of California Citrus Growers 6 cups water 1 clove cinnamon or 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon 6 tea bags 1 cup California Navel orange juice 1/2 cup white sugar 2 tablespoons lemon juice 1 slice California Navel orange Bring water and cinnamon to boil; let cinnamon dissolve. Remove from heat and add tea bags; soak at least 5 minutes. Remove tea bags.

In separate pan, bring orange juice, sugar and lemon juice to boil. Stir until sugar dissolves.

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Pour juice mixture into spiced tea.

Garnish with orange slice and serve hot. (Family Features) 

J A N UA RY 3, 2021

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 1 5

H E A LT H & B E A U T Y

Simple practices to follow in order to maintain braces

M

any adults recall having braces as children.

While braces have evolved dramatically over the last few decades, modern braces benefit teeth in much the same ways as those adults recall from their youth.

Braces are often recommended to help straighten crooked teeth, correct misaligned bites and/or address overcrowded teeth. Maintenance is essential to ensure braces are effective and provide long-lasting benefits, and the American Association of Orthodontists offers these tips to protect braces and prevent patients from developing tooth decay

Avoid certain foods

Hard, sticky, crunchy, or chewy foods should be avoided. Many candies and snacks fit that description, so parents of children with braces and adults with braces of their own should make sure these foods are not readily available around the house.

Removable parts, including elastics, should be removed prior to brushing. Clean each tooth individually in a circular motion, tilting the brush as necessary to reach small front teeth.

Continue regular dental visits

The AAO specifically mentions foods such as caramel, gummies, licorice, jelly beans, and even soft drinks among the foods to avoid when wearing orthodontic braces.

Brush twice per day, but be careful

The experts at Oral-B® note that careful cleaning is required when wearing braces. Plaque bacteria can be easily trapped inside and around braces, so it’s especially important that people with braces carefully brush each day.

Regular visits to the orthodontist are required when wearing braces.

These visits are necessary so braces can be adjusted and orthodontists can make sure there are no signs of gum disease. But Oral-B® notes that it’s just as important to continue visiting the dentist while wearing braces. Dentists can perform routine services designed to protect tooth surfaces from decay while wearing braces, making dental visits a vital component of orthodontic maintenance.

Orthodontic braces help people have healthy, beautiful smiles.

Maintenance while wearing braces is vital to avoid disease and produce a mouthful of pearly whites. (MC) 

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J A N UA RY 3, 2021

GARDENING

Exploring different backyard structure options

D

esigning an ideal backyard space requires forethought and an eye for style. Knowing which features to include in a yard often boils down to what homeowners want to achieve in the space. Will it be a relaxing oasis or a central entertaining focal point?

People often look to various structures to add height and visual interest to outdoor spaces. Homeowners will likely come across structures such as arbors, gazebos, pergolas and even trellises as they wade through the variety of features they can incorporate into backyard plans.

Each of these structures can add appeal, but they also can offer shelter from the sun and privacy when enjoying the yard.

There are significant differences between each structure, so here’s an indepth look at what sets them apart.

Arbor An arbor is one of the more simple garden structures. It is usually

Homeowners will likely come across structures like arbors, gazebos, pergolas and trellises as they wade through the variety of features they can incorporate into backyard plans.

a frame that is arched or square-cornered. Most homeowners use it as an entryway to a garden or even the front of the home. Those with green thumbs may cover the arbor with

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Pergola The words arbor and pergola are often used interchangeably, but to suggest the two structures are the same would not be accurate.

Pergola comes from the Italian word “pergula,” which means “projection.” Pergolas were once projected from exterior walls and supported on one side by pillars or columns. Today, arbors are usually freestanding units with two or four posts.

Pergolas may be connected on one side to a home or another structure.

Some are freestanding units supported by four posts. Pergolas tend to be larger and offer more privacy and shade than arbors.

Gazebo Gazebos are more defined garden buildings, states the contractor referral site Network. Gazebos are freestanding units that can be built in various shapes. Some are octagonal, others are square.

Like a pergola, a gazebo is supported by columns and may have low railings or built-in benches. Gazebos also may have a more solid roof than arbors or pergolas, providing sun and other weather protection. The roof may have added architectural appeal, like a cupola.

Trellis A trellis is a simple, geometrically-shaped structure that provides a surface for climbing plants.

A trellis also may support fruit-bearing trees. Trellis work may be used in conjunction with an arbor or pergola, or be installed on fencing.

Incorporating structures into backyard designs can provide functionality and appeal. (MC) 

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Enjoy year-round living with central air and heating. A workshop shed is out back for storage, home projects or hobby enthusiasts.

Not included in the square footage is a detached bonus room measuring approximately 19’ x 10’ with 2 entries, upgraded electrical and equipped with cable and gas, and is perfect for guests, kids and pets. This turn-key home offers a quiet lifestyle, yet is centrally located Northeast of Santa Clarita with easy access to the 405, 5, 210 and 14 freeways. Priced to sell! Hurry this home won’t last!

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J A N UA RY 3, 2021

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 1 7

HOME

Get organized for an envy-worthy garage

A

garage may not be the focal point of your home, but it likely plays a significant role in your family’s everyday life.

Keeping the garage tidy can help you get the most out of the space, no matter how you use it.

Get your garage spruced up and ready to deliver the storage and workspace you need with these tips from the organization experts at ClosetMaid.

Start by sorting. Garages tend to accumulate a lot of stuff, some of it useful and much of it not. Begin your garage clean-out by sorting your belongings into groups. The items you no longer need can be divided further into sell, donate and trash piles. For the things you’re keeping, try to create groups of like items, which can make it easier to organize later.

Empty as much as you can

Cleaning out the garage is one of those jobs that typically gets messier before it gets cleaner. Removing as much of the contents of your garage as possible can make it easier to reach all the nooks and crannies for a more complete cleaning.

Give it a power scrub

Clean every surface to remove dust, dirt and debris. This means everything from sweeping floors and wiping down counters to brushing away cob-

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Put things back in place

webs from the ceiling. If possible, use a hose to clean the floor thoroughly and remove buildup tracked in from your vehicle tires. Be thorough and use a critical eye. Don’t overlook details like light switches or the wall behind the trash can.

Make storage easy

With a clean slate, it’s the perfect time to rethink your organization and put things in place with storage units designed to stand up to the wear and tear of the environment. One option is the ProGarage line from ClosetMaid. This customizable col-

If you take the time to separate items as you sort and purge in the beginning, this last step will be quick and painless. Now that the space is clean and you have storage space ready to fill, it’s time to begin moving everything back into place. Put similar items together. Keep the things you use most often in easy reach and stash others on higher shelves.

Before you close the doors and call it a day, be sure to show everyone, including the kids, where things belong. Your garage may get dirty again quickly, but with some help from the family, you can at least keep it picked up and usable longer.

Find more helpful tips for keeping every part of your home organized like a pro at ClosetMaid.com.

(Family Features) 

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1 8 · S U N D AYS I G N A L

J A N UA RY 3, 2021

AUTOMOTIVE

A few things to consider when buying a vehicle

T

he pandemic changed our travel habits considerably, and forced us to reconsider how we get around safely.

For example, the latest Hankook Tire Gauge Index found that three-quarters of Americans don’t feel comfortable taking public transportation because of the coronavirus pandemic, leading more people to get behind the wheel.

This increase in drivers is having an impact on our car buying decisions: Data showed that 44% of Americans have already considered a new vehicle purchase. Many are likely to be firsttime car buyers, too, as over half of Gen Z and millennials are thinking about a new vehicle purchase.

In addition to the usual considerations when buying a vehicle — cost, performance, safety and reliability — the events of 2020 have raised new questions. After a year of significant change, here are four things to consider when buying a new vehicle.

Your vehicle is just as much about comfort as it is mobility

We’re spending more time in our cars, even when we’re not going places — waiting in parking lots for grocery orders, lining up at drive-thrus, or even taking a conference call when home gets a little too noisy! So a vehicle’s interior should be a nice place to spend your time.

The good news is that there are plenty of standard features and affordable options to make that possible. The Gauge Index found that Americans consider everything from Bluetooth connectivity (62%) and indash navigation (57%), to remote and keyless start tech (56%) as important factors when choosing their vehicles.

Self-healing tire technology was also rated as an important feature by 56% of Americans — a useful feature at any time, and crucial when one may not want to come into close contact with others for an emergency tire change!

Is it finally time to plug in?

With increased range, lower prices and expansions in charging infrastructure, electric vehicles are increasingly becoming a choice for drivers, with 62% of Americans likely to consider an EV. Deciding if it’s time to go electric means considering a few important factors. The first is range: What do you anticipate to be your regular mileage between charges? The average range of today’s electric vehicles should be more than enough for daily commuting, errands and even the occasional afternoon road trip.

Then, make sure you have access to charging infrastructure at home and at your frequent destinations. And calculate the true financial benefit, taking into account rebates, credits and a newfound freedom from the petrol pump.

Take time to kick the tires.

When buying a new vehicle, check

the tires it comes with to ensure they’re best suited for the weather conditions where you live. Less than half (47%) of Americans can accurately identify the difference between all-weather and all-season tires, so here’s the cheat sheet: All-weather tires manage rain and snow while also delivering year-round performance; all-season tires prioritize comfort and fuel economy over ice and snow traction.

If you’re switching to electric, your tire choice could impact your ride comfort, mileage and road noise.

These are already important for a regular vehicle but for an EV, where range is key and there’s just the quiet hum of the electric motor, you’ll want to pay extra attention to these features on your tires.

Looking at post-pandemic

With the new year finally here and the hope of restrictions easing in 2021, it’s important to ask if your vehicle needs now will be the same in six to 12 months’ time.

That’s because a vehicle purchase isn’t just for a few months; it’s a lengthy investment that brings insurance, registration and maintenance responsibilities. If a new vehicle purchase only serves your needs now, it may be worth managing with what you have for a few more months.

The past year has been one of change and upheaval. So if that means it’s time for a new set of wheels, these questions will help you not only choose the vehicle you need, but the driving experience you want, for the years ahead. (BPT) 

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SENIORLIVING

How to help aging adults adapt to technology

C

hildren, adolescents and young adults likely cannot imagine a life without modern technology.

Technology may have pervaded every part of life in the 21st century, but it wasn’t so long ago that phones were still attached to walls and people had to watch their favorite shows and films exclusively on televisions instead of having the option to watch them on devices like smartphones and tablets.

The transition to life in the age of technology went smoothly for most segments of the population, but some aging adults have had a more difficult time making the adjustment.

That difficulty was apparent through­out the COVID-19 pandemic, when public health agencies like the World Health Organization and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention urged aging adults to limit interactions with people outside their homes.

Such recommendations forced many seniors to communicate with their families exclusively over the phone or via video conferencing apps like Zoom.

If seniors have had a hard time adapting to technology, their families can try these strategies to make that transition go more smoothly.

Go over product manuals with seniors

The senior caregiving experts at Home Care Assistance note that older adults are less likely to learn through experimentation than they are by reading instructions in the manual.

When helping seniors learn to use new devices, go over the owner’s manual with them as you set up the device. Mark important pages in the manual so seniors know where to go for quick answers if they experience any issues logging in or using certain apps.

Look for senior-specific devices and guidebooks

Seniors make up an enormous segment of the population, and tech companies have long since recog-

MAKE YOUR HEARING YOUR #1 GOAL IN 2021!

GOALS

When helping seniors learn to use new devices, go over the owner’s manual with them as you set up the device.

Above all, use patience with them as they work their way through new technology.

nized that there’s a market for products designed specifically for aging men and women.

When shopping for devices for seniors, look for those that have been designed to help them overcome issues that have proven problematic for aging adults in the past. Devices that feature touchscreens with large menus, easily accessible navigation tools and simplified features can help seniors as they learn to use new technology.

Be patient

Some seniors are excited by the prospect of learning to use new technology, while others may be hesitant.

Patience is essential when working with an aging loved one who’s intimidated by technology.

Take the time to explain apps and features and don’t take it for granted that seniors will know how to use a device or recognize what a device can do.

Today’s seniors may not have grown up with technology at their fingertips, but they can still learn to use devices to their advantage.

(MC) 

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N E W S F E AT U R E

SERVICE

Continued from page 8

“They don’t even ask anymore, they just assume that you’re lying,” Yarbrough said. “It was only after the security guard saw my dog in a down stay next to sliding glass doors that kept opening and closing — and she didn’t move — that he realized that she was a service dog.”

Just hours after getting his new service dog Lazarus, a purebred West German Shepherd, Anthony was also faced with a public access challenge at a grocery store. He says he was accused of lying about why he had the dog with him in the store.

“He flat-out called me a liar and not only kicked me out of the store, but called the police and had them write me and Lazarus a ticket for trespassing,” Anthony said. “The dog hadn’t made a peep the entire time.

She was quiet and attentive as officer after officer showed up.”

Anthony says he almost returned

Service dog in training Lazarus (left) and search and rescue dog in training Crixus during training session at Redemption Road K-9 in Agua Dulce. PHOTO BY DAN WATSON / THE SIGNAL

the dog, but decided to keep her and

that he could help other people like

vowed to learn everything he could

him who just wanted help living a

about service dogs so that would

normal life.

There are rules for a reason and

never happen to him again and so

when it comes to service dogs, those rules are in place not only to protect the humans, but also the dogs.

“I’ve seen so many aggressive, out of control, freaked out dogs trying to be passed as service dogs,” Yarbrough said. “It’s cruel to take an untrained animal who is unable to handle the distractions of urban life and put them in a store where they are being set up to fail.”

Although Yarbrough believes that most people love their dogs, and their intent isn’t malicious or meant to be hurtful, she says that it doesn’t help the acceptance of legitimate service dogs.

“The people who own businesses and are in charge of making sure everyone is safe are forced to question the dogs legitimacy, which put the people with disabilities under more stress,” Yarbrough said. “This does not help their condition at all and is an extra stress that they don’t need to have.” 

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K I D S & FA M I LY

Donna’s Day: Creative Family Fun

Flip into the new year with Swedish pancakes

By Donna Erickson Signal Contributing Writer

freshly sliced strawberries and a dollop of whipped cream?

s traditional recipes poured out of family cookbooks over the holidays, I went on a quest for the “best” Swedish pancake recipe from my friends and their Swedish-American friends. I soon discovered that there are probably as many recipes as there are Swedish grandmothers -- and grandfathers.

Growing up, I recall that my Grandma Ruth, a second-generation Swede, actually didn’t work from a formal recipe. “A little bit of this, a lot of that,” she’d say to me as I stood on a footstool by her side, carefully pouring milk into a wide bowl. A lot of “that” usually meant the melted butter that would blend smooth as silk into the batter.

I later learned the basic techniques for flipping the pancakes from my

SWEDISH PANCAKES

A

1 cup flour 1/4 teaspoon salt 2 cups milk, or 1 1/2 cups milk and 1/2 cup half and half (optional) 3 eggs 1/4 cup butter, melted and cooled, plus butter for cooking.

1. In a medium bowl, combine all of the ingredients with a whisk until smooth. Do not overbeat.

of confectioners’ sugar. A satisfying, easy meal for a lazy Saturday morning breakfast, or a casual weeknight supper.

Here’s my easy “best” recipe. Stir it up for your family and make it your own with a little of this … maple syrup on top? Or that. How about some

3. Cook until the pancake is golden brown on the bottom (lift up a corner to check the color) and small bubbles are visible on the top. This happens quickly. Flip with a narrow spatula and lightly brown on the other side.

4. Set on a plate, and fold in half or quarters, if you wish. Serve hot with traditional lingonberry, strawberry or raspberry preserves.

Top with a dusting of confectioners’ sugar. Makes 12 pancakes.

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

I am an actor born in Australia on January 13, 1990. Before I became an actor I worked in construction. I made my big screen debut in 2009, and I was in the popular “Hunger Games” trilogy.

Answer: Liam Hemsworth

dad. (Unlike the thicker American flapjack, a Swedish pancake is more like a French crepe, so flipping can be unwieldy at first.)

Happily, my family and I have continued the tradition of making Swedish pancakes topped with bright-red lingonberry preserves and a dusting

2. For each pancake, lightly butter griddle or large skillet; heat over medium-high heat. When quite hot, pour 1/3 cup of the batter into skillet. Swirl it around so that it forms a thin 8- to 9-inch layer on the bottom of the pan.

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SOLUTIONS

PUZZLES

J A N UA RY 3, 2021

CROSSWORD TIME

J A N UA RY 3, 2021

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 2 3

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