Sunday Signal Feb 15, 2019 by Signal

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FEBRUARY 17, 2019

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F E B R UA RY 17, 2019

TABLE OF CONTENTS NEWS FEATURES

LOCAL NEWS

5 Cultivating that ‘Lucy’ look 6 Canines get a second chance at Redemption Road 8 Studying the culinary arts at COC 9 10 11 12

Council applauds bullet train cutbacks Woman killed in crash remembered for love of kids Wilk honors Signal from Senate floor Blue Star Mothers bond over breakfast Camp Clarita 2019 registration now open Santa Clarita among 25 healthiest cities in the U.S.

SPORTS

CITY MANAGER

13 Setting an example at COC

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14 Dance, laugh, learn and play in Newhall

BUSINESS 15 15 Overlords of Infamy

REAL ESTATE

TIME RANGER OPINION

17 18

16 Why home inspections are important 18 Our View • David Hegg • Tim Whyte

CALENDAR 21 HOME IMPROVEMENT

2 Water softeners and garage pumps 2 23 Water works in the SCV

SCHOOL 24 4 Child passenger protocols 2 31 Ecos Chicos gain environmental education

FOOD 25 25 Jasmine Thai hits all the right notes

ENTERTAINMENT 26 6 Dishwalla lead singer JR Richards at The Canyon 2 27 ‘Shoplifters’ and a few DVD recommendations

GARDENING 28 28 A few tips as winter winds down

SENIOR LIVING

29 Memory and imagination

TRAVEL 30 30 Discover Ireland: Fun for the whole family

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HEALTH 32 32 Keeping healthy in the office

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PETS 36 36 Five trends to watch

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The entire contents of the Sunday Signal is copyrighted 2019 by Paladin Multi-Media Group, Inc. All submitted letters and columns are strictly the opinions of the authors and not necesarily those of the publisher. All rights are reserved and no part of this publication may be reproduced without written permission of the publisher.

F E B R UA RY 17, 2019

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Cultivating that ‘Lucy’ look By Crystal Duan Signal Staff Writer

mber Schwinn grew up in Santa Clarita loving theater. She was the cheeriest girl in the play, and acting was her passion. Eventually, people started comparing her to a famous icon, she said. “I think I was at a July 4 party one year,” she recalled. “And I decided to dress up like a vintage pin-up girl. And my friend stared at me and was like, ‘Have you ever considered auditioning to be Lucy?’” The Lucy he was referring to was Lucille Ball, the main character in “I Love Lucy,” an iconic sitcom Schwinn also loved. But the honor of portraying actress Lucille Ball’s role as an “impersonator” seemed too weighty for Schwinn at first, she said. “I didn’t expect it. There are only a handful of Lucy’s — only five — that have ever depicted her. I come from a really important line,” she says with pride.

Schwinn in make-up (left) and as herself. COURTESY PHOTOS.

One day, in 2015, when she auditioned to be Lucy at Universal Studios Hollywood — she was an instant hit. It was nerve-wracking, she admits. After all, it wasn’t enough for just the people at Universal hiring to like her likeness to Lucy. “They’re also going to ask Lucille Ball’s children,” she said. “They have the final say in all of this — they have to like you and see if you are Lucy.” As one of only two actresses on the West Coast are approved by the Lucille Ball estate to portray Lucy, and Schwinn’s appearances vary from standard meet and greets, to per-

forming classic scenes such as “Vitameatavegamin” and special skits. Growing up, Schwinn loved “I Love Lucy” just as millions of other Americans did. In the past four years, countless visitors have said Schwinn’s expressions and speech patterns mimic Lucy so much that she sometimes doesn’t even know what’s Lucy and what’s her anymore. She did do a lot of research on the character before auditioning, and found that they both are high energy, friendly and love what they do, Schwinn said of her similarities to the

Lucille Ball character. All sorts of people, from three generations in a family in a grandmother, mother and daughter, to recent immi grants who learned English through the show, have told Schwinn her “Lucy” has brought a smile to their face. With the red hair, red lips and outfits, getting into character physically takes quite a bit of a time for Schwinn when she goes to Universal Studios for her job. Unlike other costumes, Schwinn must make sure to carefully put on her outfit, makeup and hair so the entire look is perfect. She loves the job as she gets to meet so many different people, she said. And with that pressure also comes a lot of intrigue and appreciation for Ball’s legacy. “She really was such an iconic, special woman,” Schwinn said of Ball. “She impacted so many people’s lives, and she’s really one of a kind. Lucy is one of a kind, and I’m glad I get to play her.” 

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F E B R UA RY 17, 2019

N E W S F E AT U R E

Canines get a second chance at Redemption Road

Cynologist John Anthony at Redemption Road K-9, A Working Dog Company in Agua Dulce. PHOTOS BY DAN WATSON/THE SIGNAL

By Crystal Duan Signal Staff Writer

oats, horses, wild African guinea fowl and more animals populate this ranch, but Attilius the Anatolian German Shepherd never bats an eyelash. When he comes out to play at Redemption Road, a canine cynology center, Attilius — 6 feet long even as an 8-month-old puppy — only has

eyes for trainer John Anthony. So do his friends: Lazarus of Bethany, a 3-year-old Shiloh Shepherd service dog being trained to work with PTSD patients; Crixus of Gaul, a 2-year-old Doberman/Belgian Malinois mix, is being trained in detection/apprehension; Attilius of Anatolia, an 8-month-old Anatolian Shepherd, a livestock guardian; and the same for Jane D., a 1-year-old Belgian Malinois. Anthony usually has a whistle he

Anthony displays training whistles as Lazarus watches.

cynology

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uses to help issue Attilius commands in three degrees of languages. English is used for everyday commands, but if Anthony ever switches to Hebrew or Farsi, Attilius knows he means business. “For a long time, these breeds were thought to be untrainable,” Anthony said, as Attilius’ peers came out to demonstrate their training, as well. “But here at Redemption Road, we’re here to change that.” This facility located in the heart of the wild landscape of Agua Dulce isn’t your run-of-the-mill “K9 training facility.” Sure, it specializes in helping young pups about to take their first steps into the police programs desensitize themselves to outer stimulation. But it also socializes dogs to control their sense of aggression, especially when they are as big as Attilius. Another unique breed is Lazarus.

She is on her way to becoming a therapy dog for post-traumatic stress disorder, an unconventional fit for a Shiloh Shepherd long thought to be ‘too aggressive,’ a concept Anthony disagrees with. He started the ranch after he witnessed the way dogs were used during the Ferguson 2014 riots. At the time, Anthony was a first responder, and thought the way dogs were being used in the riot control was depressing. “Dogs can come here to learn to search and rescue, sniff out drugs, have multi-purposes, but in general, we really try to use dog cognition science to teach them not to attack humans or view them as a threat,” Anthony explained. He was disheartened by the crowd-control techniques in Ferguson, and then decided to go into the field of strengthening the bond between officer and dog

F E B R UA RY 17, 2019

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Anthony uses a rattly shopping cart as he tries to distract service dog in training Lazarus (left) and search and rescue dog in training Crixus after giving the command to stay.

to make it a more controlled, safe pigeons) or loud sirens (played so the interaction. animals can work and not have the When Anthony tells Attilius to sit, noises bother them). Attilius knows how to listen — at Brian Tezeno, one of Redemption’s first. But he takes every opportunity cynologists, trainers and youth mento sass Anthony, because 6,000 years tors who trained dogs at Ohio State of genetic breeding has trained Attili- University, said this program is essenus to be a shepherd. tial to being a bridge between worlds Most breeds in K9 training groups for a lot of enforcement officers and hail from such lineages, and thus can be the public. aggressive and defiant to human mas“John is one of a kind in this industers, unless you know how to speak their try,” he said. language. The team Crixus, a Dowas once Attilius commands in berman Pinchus based out three degrees of languages. Belgian Malinois of Seattle mix, is another English is used for everyday and moved example. With commands, but if Anthony to Agua a slick, narrow Dulce in ever switches to Hebrew or brown head and Farsi, Attilius knows he means September, long limbs, this as it was business. 2-year-old was a more named for the andog-friendcient Roman gladiator, but only bites ly environment than the city had been. on command. Anthony, already a certified elite “We want to find something to imcanine athlete specialist, is in the plement among law enforcement and middle of getting his certification to have animals be the bridge to connecting humans with the compassion teach a police handling course now. He is also upgrading the barn on of dogs,” Anthony said. the ranch to military grade kennels Anthony hadn’t always grown up around dogs, and was in fact attacked for many, many more dogs to populate Redemption Road in later years. by two German Shepherds at age 13. Redemption Road K9 plans to partAnthony didn’t trust dogs for years, but now these canines are some of his ner with SRD~Straightening Reins, the equine-assisted therapy, to host closest friends. Many are brought as dogs as young an Open Barn event on March 9. The event will feature a celebrity as 8 weeks to age 2 by their owners. guest appearance USA track and Based on what kind of environment they’re in, Anthony and his team will field medalist Norris Frederick and is open to the public for $10 from socialize them with birds (if they’re in an urban area with distracting 1-4 p.m. 

Anthony waves flags as he steps over 3-year-old Lazarus to distract her after giving the command to stay.

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F E B R UA RY 17, 2019

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Studying the culinary arts at COC By Crystal Duan Signal Staff Writer

s a student-intern at the College of the Canyons Institute for Culinary Education, Marylynn Anderson had the unique opportunity to get certificates in all three of the institute’s programs. “They teach you basic skills in cooking, baking and being a sommelier and understanding wine, and you learn so much,” Anderson said. On Feb. 5, iCUE students and staff were putting on a free luncheon for low-income students with Anderson and her fellow intern, Conor Warme, cooking. The two were prepping linguini in white aprons, noting the intricacies of the preparation process. Across the main iCUE atrium, department chair Cindy Schwanke was also directing students who were interested in eating the freshly prepared hard work that Anderson and Warme, among others, had made. Both students have indulged in a very fast-paced knowledge of each of the arts, in what is often a “very challenging field with a lot of elements,” Schwanke said. “We have experienced chefs who’ve all been in the industry who are teaching the students,” she said of the program’s uniqueness. “We have small class sizes for the best one on one training, we have a beautiful facility and students get internships in a hands on way.” “You can join the iCUE if you want to open up your own restaurant,” Anderson said. “Or you can go the route of being a pastry chef or sommelier.” Anderson specializes in culinary arts, but has taken the other classes and earned the other certificates. “It’s like three different types of classes, like if you had three subjects: ‘English, math, science,’” she said. “It’s kind of all in the same building, but as far as what you’re taught, they’re very different.” In the wine class, Anderson learned about wines in other countries, the different climates under which fermentation happens and

Emilee Grose, College of the Canyons sophomore, picks out pasta toppings at COC’s Institute of Culinary Education free pasta bar lunch Thursday. PHOTO BY MICHELE LUTES / THE SIGNAL

“We have experienced chefs who’ve all been in the industry who are teaching the students. We have small class sizes for the best one on one training, we have a beautiful facility and students get internships in a hands on way.” iCUE department chair Cindy Schwanke

even how to pour wine. She recalls one final she took that entailed popping champagne without the cork flying off. Wine tasting is also a very popular class, where people can see how the “legs” — how the wine remains on the glass when

it’s swirled — indicates how strong of alcohol content wine has. “There are just so many wine classes,” Anderson said. “We have ‘Wines of Italy,’ ‘Wines of France,’ ‘Wine Appreciation.’ You’re basically traveling the world in a classroom.

The Institute for Culinary Education at College of the Canyons currently offers: • Certificate of Achievement in Culinary Arts • Certificate of Specialization in Baking and Pastry • Certificate of Specialization in Wine Studies • Certificate of Specialization in Hospitality Wine Service • Culinary Arts programs that are currently in development: • Associate in Arts Degree — Culinary Arts • Additional Certificate in Wine Studies

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You can learn about how reds can have 14 percent to 3 percent, and how those notes differ.” And now, Schwanke said, students in the wine certification program can go on field trips to the college’s vineyard, maintained by Pulchella Winery. The donated vines for that were planted two miles north from the college by the I-5 freeway, and now students can make their own wine in an internship. “We show students how to maintain grapevines, pick the grapes, clip them, use them as a visual,” she said. “Our students intern at Pulchella Winery to make the wine, too.” The wine and baking certificates take a year, while the culinary program takes a year and a half. Anderson has been in the program since August 2015 to obtain all three certificates before embarking on a career as a chef, while Warme is on his last credit before he graduates. Any COC students interested can also obtain an associate’s degree that takes two years. “Many people want to learn to cook better, and even learning things about how your knife cuts are covered in classes,” Warme said. “Plus it only costs $5,000 for your degree instead of $35,000-40,000 at a for-profit cooking school,” Anderson said. Schwanke said that the college also does its part for students that don’t get a hot meal or for students who may go hungry for the week, and so decided to do a free lunch as a pilot program. They also have buffet-style lunches on Thursdays. “On Tuesday nights starting in April, we’re going to do dinners, too,” Schwanke said. “We also classes so people can come in for 3-4 hours and make something with our chefs, we have a couple coming up. 

F E B R UA RY 17, 2019

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 9

Council applauds bullet train cutbacks By Tammy Murga Signal Staff Writer

n his State of the State speech Tuesday morning, Gov. Gavin Newsom announced his intent to sharply scale back California’s planned high-speed bullet train — and Santa Clarita City Council members applauded the news, but said they still feel uneasy about it. Councilwoman Laurene Weste took the opportunity during Tuesday’s City Council meeting to say she was thrilled to hear that “the high-speed rail was probably not going through the Santa Clarita Valley.” On Wednesday, Mayor Marsha McLean said, “I’m pleased that (Newsom) decided that it was problematic to try and take the train from San Francisco to Los Angeles. We knew that all along but the concern is once they get this one segment built that they will try to add onto it.” Newsom said that although con-

Gov. Gavin Newsom announced cutbacks to the plan for a statewide bullet train — depicted above in an artist’s rendering — in his recent State of the State address. COURTESY PHOTO

struction is already underway in the Central Valley, “The project, as currently planned, would cost too much and take too long. There’s been too little oversight and not enough transparency.” The governor still plans to have the rail between Merced and Bakersfield built, complete all environmental reviews statewide, including in the Los

Angeles-to-Palmdale study currently underway, and pursue additional transit funding. Worries voiced prior to his announcement by several local elected officials, including McLean and Assemblywoman Christy Smith, D-Santa Clarita, revolved around cost overruns and harmful effects the project would have on the area’s wildlife corridors. “I would just hope that the capand-trade money that (Gov.) Brown made sure was earmarked for this train is put to good use,” McLean said. “(The environmental reports) were troubling because that means they’re not stopping it, and the California High-Speed Rail Authority could say, ‘Yes, we can come back and construct this.’” The governor’s announcement left some observers wondering, if the high-speed rail line ever gets built out, when would that be? On Wednesday, Rail Authority

LOCALNEWS

CEO Brian Kelly said, “The governor supports a statewide high-speed rail system, as the voters approved. He’s acknowledging we don’t have full funding for that now, so he’s saying get trains on the ground where we can while we ready the rest of the state for the project and pursue more funding.” Newsom said in his speech, “We’re going to make high-speed rail a reality for California. We have the capacity to complete the rail line between Merced and Bakersfield. We will continue our regional projects north and south.” The state rail authority unanimously supported in November the Refined State Route 14 as the preferred route in the environmental review process. In the SCV, this path would follow the 14 freeway underground along the eastern boundary of the city and then emerge from a tunnel at the Vulcan mine site, adjacent to Lang Station Road. 

Woman killed in Monday crash remembered for love of kids By Jim Holt Signal Senior Staff Writer

he family and friends of a young woman killed Monday in a traffic collision are mourning her loss, and remembering her for being a caring, loving person who devoted her life to working with kids. Meagan York, 21, of Canyon Country, worked with children for the ministry at Real Life Church in Valencia and attended classes in child care at College of the Canyons. “She loved kids,” her sister, Paxton York, said Wednesday. “She always had a love for kids. She loved God.” Bubbly and funny were the words Paxton used to describe her sister, with “an amazing heart, very loving and loyal.” “She always knew how to brighten people up,” she said. The York family is still wrestling with the news of her death, Paxton

York said, noting funeral arrangements have not been finalized. Since the fatal crash, friends have been leaving messages on York’s Facebook page that describe her as having attended Saugus High School and having worked for a while at the Ice Station in Valencia. Most recently, she was working as a caregiver for one child, her sister said. A message on Meaghan’s Facebook page reads: “It is with very heavy hearts we share with you that on

Monday 2/11/19 around 11:24 p.m. Meaghan went to be with the Lord. Please pray for and with us as we mourn the loss of such an incredible soul. We will share information for those who would like to come offer their condolences when it becomes available.” One of the many responses to the post reads: “My heart is breaking.”

Paxton York, reflecting on that reply, said: “A lot of hearts have been broken.” The York family is struggling with the news of Meaghan’s death, she said. “It’s really rough,” she said of grieving family members. The Canyon Country man arrested See YORK, page 12

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F E B R UA RY 17, 2019

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Wilk honors Signal from Senate floor By Perry Smith Signal Managing Editor

tate Sen. Scott Wilk, R-Santa Clarita, honored The Signal and Publisher Richard Budman on the Senate floor Wednesday, in honor of the newspaper’s 100th anniversary. “Not only is The Signal known in my district for outstanding reporting, but the organization is renowned in the community for its involvement and generosity,” Wilk said in a statement. “Richard and Chris Budman have a strong commitment to the people and community — it shows every day in how the news is reported, and it shows in their support of local nonprofits, schools or other entities in our area.” Budman expressed his gratitude for the recognition in a conversation with Wilk after the presentation. “Thank you, Sen. Wilk. Thank you for recognizing The Signal,” Budman said. “The Signal is very proud to be a community newspaper for the last century. (There’s) a lot of dedicated, hard-workers that put a lot of effort

into it, and we look forward to covering all the events, people, places that make Santa Clarita great, for the next 100 years.” From the Senate floor, Wilk praised The Signal as “the No. 1 news source for the SCV,” and noted a 10 percent increase in circulation, which represents a reversal of a nearly industry-wide trend in print publications. The Signal recently celebrated its 100th birthday with a series of tabs and special publications, and will continue to recognize its history as the area’s leading news source. On Feb. 7, 1919, the Newhall Signal became the weekly hometown newspaper for a community of just 500 people with a circulation of 250 papers. The newspaper grew to become an integral part of the community and now serves over 300,000 in print and online, with over 70,000 households receiving a print copy of the Sunday edition. Wilk also mentioned several accolades from The Signal’s recent past in a news release after his presentation to Budman. In 2006, the National Newspaper

State Sen. Scott Wilk (right) presented The Signal Publisher Richard Budman with a special resolution in honor of the newspaper’s 100th anniversary on Feb. 7 in Sacramento.

Association of America named The Signal the “Best Paper for General Excellence” for newspapers with a circulation of 50,000 or less; and in 2018, The Signal was named the No. 1 news source for local information in a poll conducted by the

city of Santa Clarita. “My wife Vanessa and I argue over who gets the paper first every morning,” Wilk said. “I imagine that is something that has been occurring in kitchens in the SCV for the last 100 years.” 

City scheduled to receive speed limit adjustments By Tammy Murga Signal Staff Writer

anta Clarita drivers will soon have to change their speeds when behind the wheel on multiple roadways after the City Council voted Tuesday to adjust speed limits based on a city traffic study. With a unanimous vote by council members, city staff will soon order speed limit signs for fabrication and they will be posted across multiple areas with either increased or decreased changes by at least 5 mph each. The new speed limits will not go into effect until signs are posted, and law enforcement cannot conduct speed enforcement until all signage is in place, which can occur within the coming months, according to Mark Hunter, city transportation planning analyst, and Carrie Lujan, the city’s communications manager. A total of 16 road segments will re-

ceive adjustments, including portions of Newhall Ranch Road, Copper Hill Drive, Ruether Avenue and Via Princessa. The only street to change by 10 mph, from the posted 35 mph to 45 mph, is Lost Canyon Road from Via Princessa to Medley Ridge Drive, according to city officials. The city will also establish speed limits for two roadways segments once part of unincorporated Los Angeles County: Canyon Park Boulevard, from Jakes Way to Lost Canyon Road, will have a 45 mph limit, and Fahren Court, between Jakes Way and Sandy Drive, will have signs reading 25 mph. Changes are recommended via a state-required engineering and traffic survey study, said Hunter. Without it, speeding violations issued by the Sheriff ’s Department cannot be approved and deputies could no longer use radar and laser enforcement — a See SPEED, page 12

Changes to certain city speed limits have been recommended via a state-required study. Without it, speeding violations issued by the Sheriff’s Department cannot be approved and deputies could no longer use radar and laser enforcement. SIGNAL FILE PHOTO

F E B R UA RY 17, 2019

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 11

Blue Star Mothers bond over breakfast By Matt Fernandez Signal Staff Writer

he Blue Star Mothers of Santa Clarita gathered for the third “Coffee and Camaraderie” breakfast on

Sunday. “It’s great to make new friends, and there’s just a special bond between military mothers where you can say, ‘Oh, you too?’” said Joann Manzo, a Blue Star member. The second Sunday of the month, Blue Star Mothers host an informal breakfast at the American Legion Post 507 in Newhall, open to anyone military affiliated who feels they need support. The breakfasts are geared

toward giving attendees a place where they can be surrounded by and talk with others who have had similar experiences. Blue Star Mothers is a national organization founded in 1942 in Flint, Michigan, to boost the morale of the large population of mothers whose children were serving in World War II. Santa Clarita’s local Blue Star Mothers chapter was founded by Sabina Fetter, who has one son in the military and one in a college ROTC program. “The Legion kept getting calls from people who needed a place to just come and talk to others about their experiences, so we started the ‘Coffee and Camaraderie’ breakfasts in November,” Fetter said. “You don’t even

have to talk. People can just come in and be around people and know that nothing they say will leave these walls.” Manzo and Christine Wing said they form friendships with other mothers with each gathering. “Other friends don’t understand what it’s like to have a child in the military, but these women do,” said Wing, who discovered the group on Facebook. Legion post commander Thomas Troesch said the American Legion and the Blue Star Mothers have complementary missions and he is proud to be able to host their meetings. “We at the American Legion are very community-oriented, and this partnership is one of the connections

LOCALNEWS

that we have made that help serve military families in Santa Clarita,” Troesch said. Fetter hopes more people will become aware of the Blue Star Mothers and will join, which will greatly help their community and service outreach, she said. “We’re currently at about 24 active voting members and last year we helped provide 60 percent of the food at the Legion’s Veteran’s Day services,” she said. “The Legion is so welcoming and helpful to the community and our goal next year is to help them out by providing all of the food for events like that.” 

Camp Clarita 2019 registration now open By Tammy Murga Signal Staff Writer

anta Clarita’s youth can join in on multiple recreational activities this year as online registration for Camp Clarita 2019 is now open, the city recently announced. This year, Camp Clarita is set to take place from June 17 through Aug. 19. Registration opened Tuesday, and walk-ins will commence Feb. 19 at The Centre at Santa Clarita Sports Complex, located at 20880 Centre Pointe Pkwy. The application deadline is at noon April 17. For both online and in-person signups, required forms to submit are found online at campclarita.com.

Online registration for Camp Clarita is now open. Making s’mores as a campfire craft, as they did in 2017 at Valencia Meadows Park, is one of the many activities offered during the camp, scheduled June 17 through Aug. 19. SIGNAL FILE PHOTO

Other information, including dates and fees, registration guidelines and planned activities, is found on the website. Those interested in applying

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filled with several trips and activities that “foster creativity, growth and development, such as games, crafts, music, drama, swimming, field trips and more,” according to the camp website. The camp is divided into five age-appropriate programs: Wee Folks, ages 3-4; Little Folks, ages 4-5; Ranger Camp, ages 5-8; Explorer Camp, ages 8-12; and Voyager Camp, ages 11-15. For additional questions, email Camp Clarita administration at campclarita@santa-clarita.com or call the Camp Clarita office at (661) 284-1465.” 

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12 · S U N D AYS I G N A L

F E B R UA RY 17, 2019

LOCALNEWS

Santa Clarita among 25 healthiest cities in the U.S. By Tammy Murga Signal Staff Writer

anta Clarita is among the top 25 healthiest cities to live in the United States, a recent WalletHub study found. The personal finance website released a report, dubbed “2019’s Healthiest & Unhealthiest Cities in America,” on Monday and reported that Santa Clarita ranks 24 out of 174 cities. “That’s what makes a good community: It’s health,” said Councilwoman Laurene Weste, who is known for her advocacy of expanding the area’s open space acreage and the construction of a crosstown trail system. “We have the ability to go out in nature and get some exercise. We are not a confined-in-concrete community.” To identify the overall healthiest cities, the study looked at four major elements: health care, food, fitness and green space. Santa Clarita ranked 75th under the food category, which looked at fruit and vegetable consumption, healthy

SPEED

Continued from page 10

tool local law enforcement says is effective. “We have seen a significant reduction in overall collisions through enforcement,” said Sgt. Billy Lynch, of the SCV Sheriff ’s Station. “We wrote just over 19,000 tickets in 2018, a large uptake from 2015, as a result of the motor program.” City and sheriff ’s officials say the use of radar and laser equipment, part of a gamut of enforcement tools, has helped in the reduction of traffic collisions significantly, including playing a role in having zero pedestrian fatalities over the last two years. Still, Lynch said: “We’re seeing that traffic accidents are down, but we’re also seeing that speeding is still there. The No. 1 cause for accidents is speed.” Major speeding still heavily occurs in areas like Golden Valley and Ne-

restaurants and farmers markets per capita, and share of obese residents. The fitness section studies cities’ share of adults who engage in physical activity, fitness and instruction centers per capita, the average cost of fitness-club memberships and intramural leagues per capita. Santa Clarita ranked 64. Out of all the U.S. cities on the list, Santa Clarita scored seventh-best under health care, which looks at premature death rates, physical health, mental health counselors per capita, the cost of medical and dental visits, as well as the quality of the local public hospital system. More closely, however, a June 2018 health profile on Santa Clarita by the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health, showed areas that may affect the area’s overall health state, including having a longer commute than others regionally. “People who have long commute times have less free time to be physically active and may also experience considerable stress associated with traffic,” the study reads. To challenge

issues like this, communities “can organize to create environments that promote active living and healthy eating,” something that Santa Clarita, through its trail system, fitness centers and partnerships with hospitals and health centers, has made accessible for its residents. And perhaps not so surprising was its green space rank: sixth out of 174. This category looked into parkland acres per capita, physical activity access, the quality of parks, and the hiking, running and walking trails per capita. The city ranked fifth, having the most walking trails per capita, just ahead of cities such as San Francisco (No. 1) and Seattle (No. 4). “Thanks to our City Council, our community has nearly 12,000 acres of preserved open space to explore, 34 beautiful parks and a full roster of classes and learning experiences to get residents active and moving,” said City Communications Manager Carrie Lujan. These figures have proven, thus

whall Ranch roads, he said. “You see people go 60 to 65 mph in a heavy, city street, like Newhall Ranch Road. That’s the freeway speed. If you lose control on the freeway, you’ll hit a K-rail, but on Newhall Ranch Road, you’ll hit a tree or person.” Some residents, including A.B. Hoelscher from Valencia, said these upcoming speed adjustments will not address the speeding problem. He fears “this could be a well-meaning but ineffective effort by the City Council to do something when, in fact, nothing significant will be accomplished.” Hoelscher suggests the reassigning of additional patrols, more signal lights and traffic monitoring cameras can help in this issue. Lynch said the Sheriff ’s Department has increased the number of deputies and the department’s partnerships with the city, including working on traffic studies, have improved enforcement. 

Continued from page 9

YORK

in connection with the traffic collision that took her life is scheduled to appear in court Thursday. Joshua Austin, 20, was arrested early Tuesday, shortly after midnight, on suspicion of vehicular manslaughter while driving under the influence of alcohol, with gross negligence, a felony. He is scheduled to appear in San Fernando Superior Court Thursday, according to information maintained by the Los Angeles County Sheriff ’s Department Inmate Information Center. He remained in custody Wednesday at the Men’s Central Jail with bail set at $100,000. About 11:24 p.m. Monday, the Santa Clarita Valley Sheriff ’s Station was notified of an injury traffic collision involving three vehicles — a Ford Ranger pickup, Hyundai Elantra and Toyota Prius — at the intersection of Soledad Canyon Road and Sand Canyon Road in Canyon Country. York, the driver of the Hyundai Elantra, was pronounced dead at the

A WalletHub study named Santa Clarita among top 25 healthiest cities in the United States. The city has 12,000 acres of preserved open space where hikers frequently take time to explore.

far, satisfactory among members of the community, according to the 2018 Public Opinion Poll, where 94 percent of participating residents said they were most satisfied with the city’s park and recreation facilities.  scene. The driver of the Toyota Prius was taken to the hospital with minor injuries. Austin, described as a retail worker by deputies in the arrest report, was arrested one minute after midnight. Preliminary indications are that Austin, driver of the Ford Ranger pickup, was traveling westbound on Soledad Canyon Road, where he failed to stop at a red light, and collided with the driver’s side of the Hyundai Elantra, Shirley Miller, spokeswoman for the SCV Sheriff ’s Station, wrote in a news release issued Tuesday morning. SCV Sheriff ’s Station Traffic Office detectives are investigating. Speed and driving under the influence of alcohol are being examined as possible factors that led to the fatal traffic collision. Anyone with information regarding this collision can call Detective Cramer of the SCV Sheriff ’s Station Traffic Office at 661-255-1121, ext. 5111. You can also submit information through L.A. CrimeStoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477), or by using the website, www.LACrimeStoppers. org. 

F E B R UA RY 17, 2019

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 13

SPORTS

Former West Ranch and College of the Canyons women’s basketball player Hannah Green returned to COC to become an assistant basketball coach after a four month stint of professional basketball in Sweden and Portugal.

Setting an example at COC By Dan Lovi Signal Staff Writer

t’s a chilly, but sunny Friday afternoon in Valencia. Most people are getting a jumpstart on weekend plans or taking in the sunshine on a stroll around the College of the Canyons campus. First-year Cougars assistant women’s basketball coach Hannah Green and a handful of players are putting in extra work at the Cougar Cage, staying late on their own and working to get better. Green, who holds the Canyons alltime record for blocks in a game (15) and in a season (198), is demonstrating some post moves to three of her players. It’s no surprise that Green also is putting in extra work as a 23-year-old first-time coach. Cougars head coach Greg Herrick said Green worked hard “every second” in her two seasons at Canyons (2014-16). “She’s a great teacher in practice. A lot of people don’t get how important that is, and she does,” Herrick said. “I’m glad she’s here and she’s going to be great for us. I think she’s going to be a big addition to our program.” Green started playing basketball as a freshman in ninth grade at West Ranch, when former Wildcats athletic director Dody Garcia spotted her on the court. She originally was going to play

tennis, but Garcia said she had a knack for hoops. “I had no plans of playing basketball in high school. We were just playing basketball one day and (Garcia) said I should try out for the basketball team,” Green said. “That’s really how it started. Dody is the one who really sparked it all because she saw that I could play. My growth and potential came a lot later than most.” While it was Garcia who first noticed Green’s skill in high school, her development and game started to flourish under Herrick. After receiving a scholarship to Division II Sonoma State out of high school, Green returned home and decided Canyons was the place for her to grow her game. Though she had to wait her turn to show what she could do, Green remained patient and kept working hard, earning herself more playing time as her freshman season progressed. Come her sophomore campaign, Green led the state in blocks and averaged 14 points per game and led the Western State Conference with 13.8 rebounds per game. Her play at Canyons earned her a scholarship to Division I Illinois State, where she averaged 12.5 points, six rebounds and two blocks per game in her senior year. She also led See Cougar, page 34

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14 · S U N D AYS I G N A L

F E B R UA RY 17, 2019

FROM THE CITY MANAGER

Dance, laugh, learn and play in Newhall By Ken Striplin City Manager

icture this: You walk into The MAIN in Old Town Newhall, and take a few minutes to admire the latest original artwork adorning the lobby walls before finding your favorite seat in the cozy and intimate theater. The house lights dim as an eclectic lineup of performers prepare to take the stage. One minute your sides ache from laughing at a comedian’s jokes, and the next you’re enthralled as a storyteller recounts her family’s dangerous journey west during the Dust Bowl era. The night continues as the free 10 by 10 Variety Show brings the audience to its feet on the first Thursday of each month, as part of the Thursdays@Newhall series. The Thursdays@Newhall series is a fan favorite in Santa Clarita because

Thursdays@Newhall

SIGNAL FILE PHOTOS

it gives residents the opportunity to explore the best in arts and entertainment. These community events are free and feature local bands, artists, performers and more. It’s great to see Santa Clarita talent on display each week, and there’s no better way to experience all that our great city has to offer. The second Thursday of the month has a new home at the Newhall Community Center. JAM Sessions is the time to lose yourself in music from around the world. Thursdays@Newhall can’t possibly top the first two weeks of the month,

can it? Lucky for you, the fun is just getting started because on the third Thursday of the month, from March through October, Main Street in Old Town Newhall is taken over by a themed SENSES Block Party Park in the new parking structure and head down the street each month, as you enter a tropical summer paradise, wild west outpost, a spectacular Halloween costume party and much more. You’ll want to grab dinner from a food truck and stop by the on-street bar while you play games, dance and enjoy time with friends and neighbors.

On the fourth Thursday of the month, head back to The MAIN for another evening you won’t soon forget. This time, relax and let the music wash over you as you take in the Note by Note Music Night.. With Thursdays@Newhall returning to its full schedule of events from March through October, there is a new free event taking place nearly every single week in Old Town Newhall. Make sure you check the calendar and stay on top of all the latest Thursdays@Newhall news and see a full list of events, including themes and dates, by visiting ThursdaysAtNewhall. com or connecting with Thursdays@ Newhall on Facebook. I’ll see you on Main Street. 

Ken Striplin is the Santa Clarita City Manager and can be reached at kstriplin@santa-clarita.com. The views expressed in his column are his own and not necessarily those of The Signal.

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F E B R UA RY 17, 2019

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 15

BUSINESS

Overlords of Infamy: The Development of an Enthusiast’s Board Game By Nathanael Rodriguez Signal Contributing Writer

n May of 2014, David Zuckman a board game enthusiast and resident of Valencia was asked by his friends “What kind of game would you make if you had the chance?” The question kept him up all night brainstorming and designing until he had finally come up with the beginnings of what’s now called Overlords of Infamy. “I got some poster boards the next day and within 24 hours, I had a prototype,” said Zuckman. “It was awful, and it looked nothing like ‘Overlords of Infamy’ does today, but it was a start.” And the game has come a long way since. After Zuckman had tested it several times, he brought in his friends from work who shared the same love of board games and were part of the inspiration behind the game. The four of them began further

David Zuckman shows off his creation, a board game called Overlords of Infamy, in front of his board game collection at his Valencia home. Photo by Cory Rubin / The Signal

developments and went on to create a company that they named Obscure Reference Games. “We all love making obscure references,” said Zuckman. “That’s what

STRESS

NUTRITION

we’d do at work all day, and when we formed our company it was a no-brainer what to call ourselves.” From there, the group began to make professional prototypes for

EXERCISE

“Overlords of Infamy.” They brought it to conventions and continued to tinker with it until they had what is now the official game. In February 2016, the group went on Kickstarter. By August 2017, the game was printed and being shipped out. “Overlords of Infamy” takes different aspects of many different styled games. It is a tile-laying, resource-management, area-control, quest-completion and worker-placement game all rolled into one. It also takes on the unique personality of Zuckman and his gaming friends to give it a special flare. “I think the thing that makes us stand out is that we’ve infused our humor into every aspect of this game,” said Zuckman. Gameplay consists of choosing from 11 different “overlords,” with which players spread misery across the game world of Planet Fred.

LIFESTYLE

See OVERLORDS, page 34

16 · S U N D AYS I G N A L

F E B R UA RY 17, 2019

R E A L E S TAT E

Why home inspections are important to buyers, sellers By Ray Kutylo Signal Contributing Writer

ll buyers have a duty to protect themselves in a home purchase, including the investigation and verification of information and facts of the prospective home’s physical condition. Most of the time, professional services are employed by the buyer to conduct inspections, and a home inspection can be an important factor in the transaction for both the buyer and the seller. Inspections can cover such issues as the general condition of the property, and its systems and components such as the foundation, roof, plumbing, heating, air conditioning electrical, mechanical, security, pool/spa condition and operation and other structural and non-structural systems and components including appliances. There may be other specialized inspection services needed to inspect for pests and termites, to confirm boundaries, check soil stability, well and/or septic systems or other matters of concern to the buyer. Other reports may be needed for natural and environmental hazards, such as seismic, flood or fire hazard zones. The Buyer’s Inspection Advisory should always be made part of a purchase agreement, which informs the buyer of various professional inspection services that the buyer may want to consider in evaluating the property. Under California law, Realtors have a responsibility to conduct a reasonably competent and diligent visual inspection on the property, regardless of who they represent, and disclose to the prospective purchaser material facts affecting the value or desirability of that property that their inspection reveals. There are some exceptions to this duty. We don’t get on the roof or go into the attic and our X-ray vision is horrible, and we don’t test systems. In addition, sellers have an affirmative duty to disclose issues known to the seller that may affect the buyer’s evaluation of the property and the buyer’s decision whether to buy the home. While there can be exceptions for bank-

owned properties recovered by foreclosure or probate properties where the seller has not lived in the property, most residential properties are covered by the seller’s obligation to make a full disclosure on property condition. While it isn’t yet common in our market area for the sellers to make their disclosure package available to a prospective buyer prior to the agreement of the parties on a purchase, other housing markets do have that standard of practice, and I think it is a good idea. Most savvy buyers and their agents will ask if there is a disclosure package available before writing an offer, and savvy sellers and their agents will prepare a disclosure package in advance of an offer. Once issues are identified by disclosure and inspection, they may become subject to further negotiation between the parties, with the Buyer wanting repairs, an adjustment to the purchase price, or a credit in escrow so that the buyer can make repairs later. The buyer may also decide to withdraw from the purchase on the basis of inspection results or disclosure items or other matters, within the buyer’s investigation contingency period. All properties have issues, and some are major and affect the buyer’s willingness to purchase or they can be relatively minor or cosmetic in nature. The main take-aways are: 1. The buyer has a right to know what they are buying and to that end, they have a responsibility to make investigations on their own behalf, and disclosures and various reports can be obtained; and 2. The sellers have a responsibility to disclose issues that may affect the buyer’s valuation of the property and their decision to buy.  Ray “the Realtor” Kutylo is the team leader of the SCV Home Team at Keller Williams VIP Properties. The Team brings experienced and professional service, commitment and value to every transaction, whether you are a home buyer or seller. Ray can be reached at (661) 312-9461 or by email at rkutylo@gmail.com. The views expressed are his own and not necessarily those of The Signal. CA DRE 00918855

SANTA CLARITA VALLEY CLOSED SALES 2/1/19 TO 2/8/19 AREA/St#

St Name

Sold Price

SqFt/Source

CANYON COUNTRY 28015 26810 26857 26850 28293 19219

Sarabande LN #1306 Claudette ST #301 Claudette ST #133 Claudette ST #157 Bockdale AVE Calla WAY

$255,000 $304,900 $315,000 $325,000 $425,000 $430,000

964/ 964/A 964/A 964/A 1125/A 1496/A

AREA/St#

26863 28040 30007 19420 26726 26933 29201 17146

St Name

Sold Price

SqFt/Source

Claudette ST #126 Ermine PL Grandifloras RD Old Friend RD Madigan DR Terri DR Sequoia RD Crest Heights DR

$445,000 $504,000 $510,000 $540,000 $555,000 $560,000 $650,000 $715,000

1003/A 1467/A 2450/A 1900/A 1962/A 2344/A 2682/A 3028/A

Sequoia Muledeer LN Alton WAY Parker RD

$540,000 $555,000 $660,000 $780,000

1950/O 1973/A 2870/A 3245/A

Vista Del Canon #B Avenue of the Oaks #212 Apple ST Briardale WAY Neargate DR

$321,500 $365,000 $542,000 $729,000 $779,000

1132/A 1071/ 1877/P 3081/A 2200/A

Susan Beth WAY #E Haskell Canyon RD #H Seco Canyon RD #172 Barrington WAY Santa Rosa LN La Rochelle DR Linda LN Edmonds PL Via Joyce DR Oaklar DR Hidden Hills DR W Maldonado PL Rock Canyon DR Dragonfly CT Carranza LN

$290,000 $310,000 $443,000 $462,500 $465,000 $485,000 $540,000 $599,999 $605,000 $625,000 $675,000 $683,782 $715,000 $729,999 $817,044

870/A 870/A 1146/A 1760/A 1850/A 1280/A 3579/A 1887/A 2272/A 2900/S 2569/A 2532/B 2705/A 3102/A 2766/B

$230,000 $360,000 $420,000 $490,000 $495,000 $510,000 $525,000 $530,000 $540,000 $540,000 $560,000 $599,000 $635,000 $682,500 $750,000

722/A 990/A 1160/A 2021/A 1128/A 1514/A 1196/A 1694/A 1703/A 1609/P 1624/A 1493/A 1588/A 2350/A 2917/A

CASTAIC 30414 29903 28167 27829

NEWHALL 18716 20071 24846 24050 23614

SAUGUS 27612 27664 28423 22079 28380 22440 28003 19750 19972 28119 28517 19416 28878 22633 19164

VALENCIA & WESTRIDGE 24518 27056 24535 28928 25649 23550 25844 24603 23718 22914 22918 23034 23903 28313 28148

Nicklaus DR #O16 Victoria LN #121 Town Center DR #6208 Mirada Circulo Almendra DR Via Barra Parada DR Montevista CIR Mill Valley RD Posada DR Magnolia Glen DR Birch Glen CIR Clearmont CT Granite CT Angelica PL

100 YEARS

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F E B R UA RY 10, 2019

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 17

TIMERANGER

‘Roots,’ Range Wars & Hart’s Best FB Team? C’mon little sleepy yuppies. Join the rest of us. We’ve thousands of fine steeds down here on the paseo and an epic adventure in the yesteryear of local history ahead. We’ve enchanting vistas ahead, fellow riders, of halcyon times, epic crimes and chapters of human foibles. C’mon. Bounce up into those saddles and through the mystic go we…

men lost its brakes coming down the Grapevine. Eight bailed, suffering scrapes, bruises and broken bones. The rest braved the terror as the old truck reached speeds in excess of 100 mph. The truck and remaining crew somehow managed to get down the hill safely.

WAY BACK WHEN & THEN SOME

• Maybe we were late onthe rent The site of Newhall originally where the Saugus Café is today in Saugus. It was founded in 1876 and moved, lock, stock and barrel to around where 6th and Main is today. There were two theories. The first was that there wasn’t enough water in Newhall Creek back then. A.B. Perkins believed the town moved because it was too windy. FEB. 17, 1919

• Fritzie who? A century later, Fritzie Ridgeway isn’t exactly a household name. She was a famous film actress who appeared in 63 films from 1916 to 1934. She started out in Vaudeville and rodeo as a trick rider and on this date, was visiting Newhall, house-hunting. • Try fitting that on a business card We had, no fooling, a filling station called The All Night and All Day Gas Station in Newhall. Unfortunately for the Alex Chandler family of Washington state, they ran out of gas in Saugus and had to walk six miles in freezing weather to the A.N.A.A.D.G.S. FEB. 10, 1929

• The birth of automation Pacific Telephone announced a brand new service “Telling the Time.” This was before dialing. All residents had to do was pick up the receiver and ask the operator: “What time is it?” To the closest 30 seconds, the local operator

would answer. • A regular job would be easier John Frawley and Morris Kellogg unraveled nearly 2 miles of wire from SoCal Edison’s telephone poles, stripping it for the copper wire. The crooks drew five years in prison each for their ill-gotten labor. FEB. 10, 1939

• Big Bad Max Former world heavyweight champ-turned-actor Max Baer was camping out at the old Monogram Ranch (today, Melody Ranch) to film eight Westerns. His son, Max Baer Jr., would later play “Jethro” on “The Beverly Hillbillies.” Trivia? Max Sr. and Buddy Ebsen (“Uncle Jed” on TBH) were lifelong best friends. Max Sr. is famous for killing a man in the ring. Filled with remorse, Baer financially supported the pugilist’s family the rest of his life. • Big Bad Bill Billy Rose began his yearly cattle drive, moving his herd from Castaic to the hills above Mojave. Billy was a bit more peaceful in his declining years. He was perhaps best known for shooting former lawman and gunfighter W.W. Jenkins in in the early 20th century. It was part of the Castaic Range War, biggest in American history, in which 27 men lost their lives. • We have no brakes and we cannot stop A truck carrying two dozen

• The killer wind Megalomaniac wind storms in Castaic blew over trees, sending them flying into homes and motel rooms. One crushed a car that a family of six had just exited. FEB. 10, 1949

• There’ll be no next time Sunset Oil Co. worker Joe Hensley got the worst-case-scenario shock treatment. Joe was working on a 440-volt motor when he accidentally rubbed his forehead against a live circuit. Joe died on the spot. FEB. 10, 1959

• Best Indian team ever? Hardly a soul remembers the Hart High gridiron squad of 1958. The Indians were ranked the best small school in California. Back then, the CIF playoffs were not divided by size of school and Hart lost to a much larger San Marino, 14-6 in the semi-finals. Undefeated Hart tore apart the old Frontier League and nearly didn’t allow a score. Nordhoff was the only school to notch points against them 12. Hart out-tallied their foes, 202-12. Ouch. FEB. 10, 1969

• Happy birthday, silver cougar A half-century ago (that’s 50 years, for you COC math majors) Lee Smelser was hired to coach the first basketball team at College of the Canyons. Or Crayons, was what we called it back then… • Perfectly safe, if it doesn’t rain The nightmare of Princess Park Estates continued. After waiting years to buy their brand new dream home, the Ralph Burrell family watched helplessly as it slipped from its foundations. Five other homes on Abdale Avenue were later destroyed by county bulldozers as dangerous and uninhabitable. Developer Lou Feller was blamed for shoddy construction. Feller defended the construction, saying that the project was built in front of a prehistoric landslide, brought

alive by the infamous 1969 torrential rains. FEB. 10, 1979

• Sounds like Signal letters to the editor authors Canyon Country resident Judy Munter made the history books the hard way. After failing to regain custody of her children in a Chicago court, she went to her attorney’s office and put nine bullets into him, killing him dead. Munter also earned attention for sending threatening letters to President Richard Nixon and throwing rocks into her neighbors’ pools. She was dubbed, “The Gamma Ray Lady” after filing complaints with the police that her neighbors were bombarding her with radiation from their garage door openers. • Tracing his roots Folks driving through Placerita Canyon were doing a double-take. A beautiful two-story mansion was sitting smack in the middle of Disney Ranch. It was a front for the TV miniseries, “Roots II.” Shocking news for the author of the book, Alex Haley. He found out while on the set he had been adopted. No kidding. Haley lost a suit for plagiarism on his original Pulitzer-prize-winning “Roots.” Haley admitted he took part of his book from Harold Courlander’s “The African” and had to pay $650,000 in 1978. Well. Here we are. Back in the here and now, a little smarter and a little more insufferable for that next cocktail party when we can corner people with newfound knowledge. See you next week with another exciting Time Ranger adventure. Until then, Encuentra la manera de escapar del esplendor aprisionado y vayan con Dios! (Find a way for the imprisoned splendor to escape and ride with God!) 

John Boston, aka, Mr. Santa Clarita Valley, has been writing about and teaching the history of the SCV for more than 40 years. Read his historical tome, “Images of America: The Santa Clarita Valley.” It’s available on Amazon.com. Don’t forget to check out his weekly series on the History of The Mighty Signal on the front page of every Saturday’s paper…

1 8 · S U N D AY S I G N A L

Opinion

F E B R UA RY 17, 2019

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

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

OURVIEW

Knowing Our Limitations, Clenched-Fist Salutes and the First Amendment and Rejoicing in Them By David Hegg

By The Signal Editorial Board

t’s not often that the flag salute in a school board meeting makes news. But that’s exactly what’s happened this month as a video has circulated of the flag salute at a recent meeting of the Saugus Union School District’s board of trustees. In the video, newly elected board member David Barlavi is seen participating in the flag salute along with his fellow school board members — but one thing is different about Barlavi’s participation: He’s got his right hand over his heart, and his left hand held high above his head, his fist clenched. The video came on the heels of a photo of Barlavi displaying the same gesture while participating in the flag salute at a Santa Clarita Valley Water Agency meeting in January. That photo circulated online and drew the ire of a group of protesters who saw the clenched fist gesture as being disrespectful of the flag and the military, and inappropriate for the setting. For his part, Barlavi says he displayed the clenched-fist salute not out of disrespect, but as an expres-

sion of his support for the Black Lives Matter movement. Several of the protesters turned out for the Feb. 5 SUSD board meeting to voice their objections — as is their right to do. The First Amendment to the U.S. Constitution protects Barlavi’s right to raise his fist, and it protects their rights to object to his doing so. But, some of the comments went too far. One protester said, “Someday you’re going to run across the wrong person, and he’s going to … I don’t know what he’s going to do… but it’s not going to be good for you.” Those words were ominoussounding enough. But, Barlavi says, it got worse after the meeting — to the point where he filed a report with the SCV Sheriff ’s Station saying he had received more than 10 death threats as a result of his clenched-fist salute. A video of the Feb. 5 meeting See OUR VIEW, page 20

ack in 1973, the renowned populist philosopher Dirty Harry gave the western world one of the all-time great principles of life: A man’s got to know his limitations. For those of you who missed it, it’s found in Clint Eastwood’s portrayal of a “no-messin’-around” police officer in the film Magnum Force. That such wisdom comes from Hollywood doesn’t make it any less true. At some point we all come to realize our limitations, or at least we should. Even more to the point, we must finally come to the age, stage, and maturity necessary to admit we aren’t good at lots of the things we’ve been trying to do. And, if we’re brutally honest, we’ll even come to rejoice in the very limitations we’ve been killing ourselves trying to prove aren’t there. Here’s what I mean. Just because we are good at one thing or even two things doesn’t mean for a minute we are good at everything, or even most things. And while this will even-

tually become clear to us — hopefully, for our sake and that of others — we will find that those around us have known if for a long time. We’ll also come to realize we’ve been sowing huge amounts of energy, and reaping piles of frustration trying to excel in areas where, frankly, we’re not very good. I’ve come to realize you can’t put in what God left out. By that I mean, at the level of basic intellect, ability, temperament, and most of all, passion, if the basics necessary for success in a certain area of life aren’t part of what God handed out, no amount of tenacity or training can make up for it. By now some of you dear readers are sputtering and ready to stop reading or worse, so let me back down just a bit. Yes, I believe we can grow and enhance and improve certain abilities. And we can certainly learn new skills and ways of thinking. But, ultimately, we all should come to the point where we admit and come to See HEGG, page 20

READERLETTERS

Eisenberg Misses Point on Social Security Re: Lois Eisenberg, letters, Feb. 13: “Long live Social Security.” Lois Eisenberg declares that, to the GOP, Social Security is a “thorn, burden and driver of debt.” Further, the GOP have “fought to dismantle (it) for years.” As usual, no supporting facts were given. Franklin Delano Roosevelt signed the Social Security Act in 1935 and its revenue began in January 1937. The Social Security Administration has reaped $13.8 trillion (that’s a “T”) from 1937 to 2009 (only). Irrespective of the multi-trillions of dollars, there are constant threats of the fund being insolvent. Democrats have dominated the lower congress, with “usually large majorities,” from 1934 to 1994, with the exception of four years; that’s the purse

strings. In 1968, with a Democrat majority in the Senate and the House, President Lyndon Johnson put the Social Security fund into the budget, meaning the monies could be spent, period. Therein lies the huge problem. In 2000 President George W. Bush floated privatizing up to 2 percent of Social Security but the idea went nowhere. Congress is not about to let the workers have any say-so over their hard-earned dollars. The assertion that Republicans want to destroy Social Security is farcical. Since 1984 new Congress members are mandated to Social Security. At that time the serving members had a choice to opt into it. Further, many of the members have working spouses and working children who are paying into See LETTERS, page 19

F E B R UA RY 17, 2019

S U N D AY S I G N A L · 1 9

Opinion

Contact: Tim Whyte, Signal Editor Phone: 661-287-5591 | Email: letters@signalscv.com Mail: 26330 Diamond Place, Suite 100, Santa Clarita, CA 91350

BLACK&WHYTE

D R AW I N G C O N C LU S I O N S N AT E B E E L E R

Ralph, Racism and the Governor Keeps Digging By Tim Whyte Signal Editor

“R

acism is racism.” So said Rep. Katie Hill’s Twitter account earlier this month as she joined fellow Democrats and Republicans alike in calling for the resignation of Virginia Gov. Ralph Northam. Northam, you may recall, came under fire after his 1984 medical school yearbook page surfaced. Included on the page was a photo of two young men, one wearing blackface and the other wearing a Ku Klux Klan robe. Politicians on both sides of the aisle called for Northam’s resignation and, to their credit, Hill and many of her fellow Democrats did so despite the fact that Northam is also a Democrat. The congresswoman’s full tweet: “Racism is racism, regardless of political party or political convenience. This news breaking on the first day of #BlackHistoryMonth reiterates the work we still have to do to ensure equality and safety for all. I call for the resignation of Ralph Northam.” She was right. Is it plausible that there’s a logical explanation for the yearbook photo? Possible, but it seems unlikely. I can imagine a universe in which someone on the yearbook staff put that picture on Northam’s page as some sort of sick practical joke. But that’s not the line of defense Northam pursued. After initially apologizing, he later came out and said that he wasn’t either of the two people in the photo. An aside: Geez, Virginia is a mess these days. They had that controversial abortion legislation, which apparently would have allowed abortions right up to kindergarten. (OK, I’m exaggerating. Settle down.)

Then there’s the lieutenant governor, who would replace Northam if the governor resigned. He’s fending off accusations of sexual assault. And the attorney general, who’s third in line to be governor, admitted that he, too, wore blackface as part of a costume

in the 1980s. Cripes. If the scandals keep going deeper through the organizational chart, pretty soon their next governor is going to be a clerk from the Virginia DMV. Northam’s handling of the situation was almost comical. It’s like “Ralph Wrecks the Internet... AND His Own Reputation...” At first he apologized. Then he said he wasn’t either of the individuals in the photo. But it appeared on his page. For SOME reason. At the press conference he held to address the issue, the governor couldn’t leave well enough alone — he said he wasn’t the one in blackface in THAT photo, but there was this one other time... Apparently, in the same year as the yearbook photo, the governor participated in a dance contest in which he portrayed Michael Jackson, so he used “a little shoe polish” on his face to look the part. He boasted that he could even do Michael’s signature “moonwalk” dance step! Here, Ralph. Take this shovel. Keep digging. His PR people probably lost their lunch at that moment. It looked like his wife was about to lose her lunch, too, when a reporter asked if he could still moonwalk, and Northam looked around, as if he was contemplating a demonstration of the technique and needed to find the right spot. See WHYTE, page 20

LETTERS

Continued from page 18

the system. It’s nonsensical to think members would work at destroying the program. For the false statement that the rich don’t pay their “fair share,” CNN Money cites the top 10 percent of earners pay 70 percent of the federal income taxes, and the remaining 90 percent pay under 30 percent with 47 percent paying nearly nothing. Cnsnews.com cites a slight variance, in quoting the Congressional Budget Office, saying the top 10 percent pay 68 percent of federal income tax. Eisenberg’s erroneous and factually absent declarations are reckless and provide two things: They feed the drive-by readers who will remain uninformed and they nurture unnecessary loathing, with the latter breeding class warfare. Betty Arenson, Valencia

Warren all the way to White House? I’ve been listening to Democratic candidates’ opening statements and it strikes me that Elizabeth Warren missed the mark with her statement, “I’m in the race all the way.”

Does she mean all the way to Election Day, all the way until the votes are counted, or perhaps, all the way to the end? It seems to me she would have been better served by saying, “I’m in the race all the way to the White House.” But of course, I’m an optimist. Richard Myers, Valencia

Why Social Security Is Almost Broke Re: Lois Eisenberg, letters, Feb. 13: Social Security, as most government programs, hasn’t remained the same as promised. It began only for senior citizens who had worked. The tax to pay for it was to be a far less percentage than it is now. That tax was to be held in a “lockbox” that would pay for itself. President Lyndon Johnson was responsible for putting the lockbox funds as well as the new into the general fund. That is why Social Security is almost broke. Bob Comer, Valencia Submit a Letter to the Editor

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

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F E B R UA RY 17, 2019

Opinion

HEGG

Continued from page 18

find rest in the fact that we are not omnicompetent, that we are attempting some things that not in our wheelhouse, and never will be. And, we should, for our sanity and the betterment of those around us, happily give over the reins of certain tasks and opportunities to those who are actually better at it. So, what’s keeping us from doing just that? I would nominate pride as the primary culprit. All our lives we’ve tried to look better than we actually are. But as we age, we should gain enough wisdom to look at things realistically, especially ourselves. I don’t remember who it was, but someone once told me, “The older I get, the more I become like who I am.” That sums it up. We spend so much of our lives trying to be what we want people to think we are instead of rejoicing in what we’ve been given and working to maximize it in ways that bring

OUR VIEW

Continued from page 18

was posted to YouTube and drew hundreds of comments, including one that said, “This joke should be hanged at the closest light post.” Such posts, and any death threats Barlavi received directly, are way out of line. Are they credible threats? That’s for law enforcement to ascertain. Regardless, it’s clear that many of the reactions to Barlavi’s clenched fist have been outsized and fail to take into account Barlavi’s constitutional right to free speech. All too often, people forget that having the right to free speech means that others do, too, even if we may find their speech reprehensible. Make no mistake: We don’t endorse the way Barlavi has chosen to express himself. It seems plausible that he’s done it as much as a ploy for attention as to make a political statement, and a supposedly non-partisan school board meeting isn’t a good fit for this particular form of expression. It’s a gesture that’s generally perceived as an aggressive one, and is subject to a wide range of interpretations. Google it — the clenched fist has been used at many different times and for many different purposes over the past couple of centuries. It can have multiple meanings, some of which are in contradiction with each other. But that’s just not the point here. The point is, Barlavi should be able to clench his fist without fearing for his safety. The First Amendment applies to everyone,

beauty and excellence into our lives and our world. The older we get, the wiser we should become, and with that wisdom ought to come the ability to focus on our strengths and quit denying our weaknesses. This will ignite a passion to do what we’re uniquely gifted to do in the years we have left, and free us to leave the rest to those who have been fitted to do them much better than us. In this way, we actually come to rejoice in our limitations. Why? Simply because, in recognizing and releasing them, we will feel a fresh wind of inspiration and motivation to pursue even greater levels of excellence and the personal satisfaction that comes with it. And, we’ll look around and find that those who have picked up what we’ve laid down are successful and satisfied, too. David Hegg is senior pastor of Grace Baptist Church and a Santa Clarita resident.“Ethically Speaking” appears Sundays.  including elected officials like Barlavi. How you exercise your right to free speech can, of course, have consequences. Imagine your own workplace: Can you exercise your free speech rights while at work, in any way you wish, and still keep your job? Can you march through your place of employment and stage a protest any time you want, without consequence? Odds are, you can’t. You have your constitutional rights, but employers also have the right to set certain standards of on-the-job conduct, whether you agree with them or not. If you’re not convinced, ask Colin Kaepernick. The same thing applies here. As an elected official, who does Barlavi answer to? The voters of Trustee Area No. 1 in the Saugus Union School District. Barlavi was exercising his First Amendment rights, but if voters disapprove of his choice in exercising his rights in that manner, during school board meetings, they can remove him from office. His critics, too, have First Amendment rights of their own. He can raise a clenched fist, and they can criticize him for it. But, our First Amendment rights are not absolute. When you demonstrably put others in danger — the old “yelling fire in a crowded theater” example comes to mind once again — you’re infringing upon their rights. Terrorist threats are not protected speech. Anyone who suggests that Barlavi should be physically harmed, or worse, as retribution for his clenched-fist salute should face consequences of their own — the legal kind. 

WHYTE

Continued from page 19

“Inappropriate circumstances,” said his wife, who’s apparently the level head in the Northam household. Alas. No moonwalk demonstration ensued. That would have been awesome. By the way, did anyone else notice that all the attention seemed to be focused on the “blackface” portion of the photo, and it seemed like the other person in the photo — THE GUY WEARING A KKK ROBE — was ignored? Aren’t the two things pretty close to being equally offensive? Anyway. I also don’t buy the lines of defense that go something like this: “It was a long time ago. It was a different era. He didn’t know any better.” Wait. What? This was 35 years ago, not 150. I think by the mid-1980s most reasonable folk understood how and why appearing in blackface is considered offensive. And yet, here we are in 2019, and we still have recent examples of people — including some high-profile celebrities — who somehow don’t get it. There was the reality star who wore blackface for a Diana Ross costume, and then TV news personality Megyn Kelly defended that, and other similar Halloween costumes, for good measure. Kelly faced swift and harsh backlash, so maybe there’s hope. But still: By now, shouldn’t common sense be... well, common? Then there are the well-meaning but misguided, like the Sacramento teacher who wore makeup to lend authenticity to her portrayal of an African character in a history lesson. She seemed like she meant well, but by now you’d think anyone, especially an educator, would think twice before donning anything resembling blackface. It’s certainly easy enough to have one’s intentions misunderstood. I know — I’ve been misunderstood before (sometimes willfully so). And, there’s a current trend coming from the left that wields the “racist” label as a speech-suppressing hammer — for example, by falsely equating opposition to illegal immigration with racism. Simply labeling something as racist does not make it so. Still, we’ve got work to do, and some of that work cuts the other way. Just this week, a Pennsylvania college student came under fire for a commentary she wrote entitled, “Should White Boys Still Be Allowed to Talk?” (Her answer: No, they should not. But she says she’s not a racist.) In the humble opinion of this particular white male, we should oppose racism in ALL of its forms — both historic, and newly evolving. And we shouldn’t buy lame excuses from those who defend or dismiss things like blackface in Halloween costumes or photos depicting klansmen in college yearbooks. I’ve said this before and been misunderstood, but in the interest of clarity: Bigotry is bigotry. And racism is racism. Just like Katie Hill said. Tim Whyte is editor of The Signal. His column appears Sundays. On twitter: @TimWhyte. 

F E B R UA RY 17, 2019

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 2 1

= Family Friendly Event

THIS WEEK’S CALENDAR

ONGOING Mondays, 10 a.m. Join Barnes & Noble every Monday morning at 10 a.m. for a special Toddler Storytime at the Children’s Stage. Barnes & Noble, 23630 Valencia Blvd., Santa Clarita. Info: stores.barnesandnoble.com/store/2642 Wednesdays, 8 a.m. Developed by Kaufman Foundation and based on the notion that entrepreneurs discover solutions and engage with their communities over a million cups of coffee, this free weekly event is designed to educate, engage, and inspire entrepreneurs around the country. American Family Funding, 28368 Constellation Road No. 398. Info: 1millioncups.com/santaclarita Wednesdays, 7 p.m. Drop in to Pocock Brewery weekly trivia night with Trivia with Budds. Trivia night.The weekly night also includes a rotating selection of food trucks. Pocock Brewing Company, 24907 Ave Tibbitts, Ste B, Santa Clarita. Info: triviawithbudds.com/trivia-locations Thursdays, 6 p.m. Come to the Canyon Club every Thursday for an 18+ night of line dancing lessons and county music presented by Borderline Bar & Grill. Canyon Club, 24201 Valencia Blvd., No. 1351, Santa Clarita. Info: wheremusicmeetsthesoul.com/canyon-santaclarita Saturdays, 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. California farmers and specialty food purveyors come together each Saturday, rain or shine, to bring you a farmers’ market with the finest in fresh and seasonal fruits and vegetables, including organic, baked goods, flowers, herbs, cheeses, and prepared foods. The market offers patrons a chance to come face to face with their food source. Old Town Newhall, 24500 Main St., Newhall. Info: oldtownnewhall.com/ old-town-newhall-farmers-market/ Saturdays, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Grab the young’uns and mosey on up the hill in William S. Hart Park to the glorious hilltop Mansion, where you can not only take a free guided tour, but your young ones can have some free craftin’ fun! Set up right outside the Mansion’s back door, on the covered back patio, is the new weekly Crafterday Saturday craft table! The young ones can try their hands at simple crafts like making their own totem poles, designing their own rope art, making their own dreamcatchers, and so much more. It’s free and all are welcome 24151 Newhall Ave., Newhall. Info: (661) 254-4584, hartmuseum.org Saturdays, 5-8 p.m. Every Saturday night, we find a great group of Gourmet Food Trucks

to get together and create community fun in the Santa Clarita Valley. The food trucks rotate so that each week, there are different options of food to try. Tables & Chairs are provided & it is handicap accessible. There is a grassy knoll to picnic on, fly kites or Frisbee. 26573 Carl Boyer Drive, Santa Clarita. Info: facebook.com/foodtrucksaturday/ Sundays, 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. Shop and save every Sunday at the Santa Clarita Swap Meet! Hundreds of vendors selling new merchandise, collectibles, plants, home decor, clothing, tools and so much more! Live entertainment, food trucks and good cheer every week! $2 admission. 22500 Soledad Canyon Rd, Santa Clarita. Info: saugusspeedway.com/ content/Meet-our-Swap-Meets.aspx Sundays, 10 a.m. to 2p.m. Come hug the cows, give the pig’s tummy rubs, cuddle the turkeys, and enjoy a beautiful day at the Gentle Barn! Donation: Adults $22, Kids $12. Tickets are nonrefundable but rain checks are available upon request. The Gentle Barn, 15825 Sierra Highway, Santa Clarita. Info: gentlebarn.org/california/ FIrst Saturday of the month, noon Tutu-Time is a special dancing story time for children who love to dance. Grab your tutu or borrow ours and come play with us! Your little ballerina can enjoy a free snack with new friends, ballerina arts and crafts and a brief ballet lesson in our beautiful ballet studio. Hear a fairytale or dance focused story, have your photo taken with a ballerina. Your child will fly with fireflies and dance with sugarplums while she whirls and twirls to strains of Tchaikovsky. It’s a truly magical experience for kids! Please call in advance to ensure the studio is not closed for the day. Tutu Ballet Academy, 18788 Flying Tiger Drive, Santa Clarita, CA. Info: (661) 299-5519, tutuballetacademy.com/programs/

EVENTS BY DATE Monday, Feb. 18, 6:30 p.m. An oil painting demo by Lynne Fearman will be held on at the meeting of the Santa Clarita Artists Association (SCAA).Using a palette of three colors and white, Fearman said, “This will be slightly different from most because my triad will be primarily in the cool tones. I will show how with this limited palette, one can create a dynamic and exciting painting.” Barnes & Noble, 23630 Valencia Blvd., Santa Clarita. Info: santaclaritaartists.org Tuesday, Feb. 19, 11:45 a.m. Join VIA on Feb. 19 for a Panel Discussion on The Signal’s first 100 years. Welcome Signal notables from the past as they join Signal Owner and

Publisher Richard Budman on stage for a panel discussion of the Signal’s rich history. The program includes an exclusive video presentation produced by SCVTV. $50. Reserve Space by Feb. 14. Hyatt Regency Valencia, 24500 Town Center Dr, Valencia. Info: via.org Tuesday, Feb. 19, 4-5 p.m. Celebrate post-Valentine’s Day by joining our Teen Chocolate Olympics at the Library. Using different types of chocolate candy, you’ll participate in fun games that test your athletic skills in interesting ways. Compete for prizes! Santa Clarita Public Library, 23743 Valencia Blvd, Santa Clarita. Info: santaclaritalibrary.evanced.info/signup/ calendar Wednesday, Feb. 20, 5-7 p.m. Come to a business after hours mixer and check out the new interior renovations beginning at Westfield Valencia Town Center with the Center’s senior management team members as they host the SCV’s premiere monthly business networking event. The Canyon Club - Westfield Valencia Town Center, 24201 Valencia Blvd,, Santa Clarita. Info: chamberorganizer. com/members/evr/reg_event.php?orgcode=SCVC&evid=45305329 Thursday, Feb. 21, 6-8 p.m. Connect the dots between your student’s education and

career possibilities by exploring high school options early. Learn about Career Pathways and how they can save your student time, and your money. his event is fun for the family but tailored towards you, the parent. Come ready to play, explore, learn, and dream at Parent University, Snacks will be provided but space is limited. Rancho Pico Junior High School, 26250 Valencia Boulevard, Stevenson Ranch. Info: https://www. eventbrite.com/e/parent-university-tickets-55645160172?aff=ebdssbdestsearch Friday, Feb. 22 and Saturday, March 2, 10:30 a.m.-4 p.m. Come to The Open Book to learn one of the fundamental stitches in bookbinding: The Kettle Stitch! Learn how to stitch together paper and attach the cover with an exposed spine that will show off your handiwork! No sewing experience required. You will get to choose from an assortment of decorative papers for the cover as well as the end papers inside the book! Ages 12 and older, sign up in-store and pay in advance for your space. $20 materials fee. The Open Book Canyon Country, 19188 Soledad Canyon Road Santa Clarita. Info: https://www.facebook.com/ events/588385911615013/?event_time_ id=604788119974792

! N! ! N I W WI WIN CONGRATULATIONS to ANITA GOEL of VALENCIA— the winner of $100 for correctly identifying the artwork as FURNITURE being from Duane GartnerCONSUMERS Insurance advertisement on G A L L E R Y page 11 of our Feb. 3 issue. Major Brands consumersfurniture.com Discount Prices

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F E B R UA RY 17, 2019

HOMEIMPROVEMENT

Water softeners and garage pumps By Robert Lamoureux Signal Contributing Writer

Water Softeners Robert, I can’t thank you enough for taking my call about the ongoing plumbing issue I’ve been having, dealing with this issue that no one has been able to find the solution to. After one phone call with you, we’ve got it and I’m so grateful, thank you. —Jean P. Jean, You’re welcome. After hearing that the plumber changed the PRV and cleaned aerators and you were still having intermittent low pressure issues, it was the logical next step to have you bypass your water softener system to see if that did the trick. Once you did this and pressure was fine, it was clear that your softener system was the issue. I’m glad that I could help you further troubleshoot. Happy to help, —Robert Garage pumps Robert, My name is Sean and I’m a (board of directors) member out in the (San Fernando) Valley, but I own property in Santa Clarita. Your article is the real reason that I read The Signal — it’s informative and I appreciate all of your insight.

Left: When heavy rain falls, make sure the water pump in your garage can keep up efficiently. PHOTO BY DAN WATSON / THE SIGNAL Below: Water softeners can cause issues if they aren’t installed right. COURTESY PHOTO.

That said, your article regarding the pumps was very informative. For the last couple of years, we’ve had nothing but problems with our garage pump not being able to keep up, and the handyman we’ve used who calls himself a plumber, was so far off target on this one it’s unbelievable. We had three of the basement-type units flood during the recent rainstorms, after he had assured us that everything was tested, fine and would hold up in heavy rains. Of course after flooding, we called a local plumber and, sure enough, the rise-and-run information you provided previously is exactly what this guy did and confirmed that the handyman had put an undersized pump in. The two pumps side-by-side look virtually the same, but one is definitely designed to pump more efficiently on our property. We ultimately

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decided to go with a slightly oversized pump in case, and we are not sorry. This last weekend we were perfectly fine — the pump took out all water that entered, and everything was OK! I want to thank you for your information, and hope that the other readers gain as much from your article as we have. —Sean Sean, You’re welcome. It’s my pleasure, knowing that what I’ve learned over the years has and is still helping people who aren’t necessarily in the business or experienced, and that they can solve problems like this. Yes, the pumps look very similar in size, but the internal components are what gives them their power and ability to move water the way they do. It’s always best to double-check the technical information when

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Robert Lamoureux has 38 years of experience as a general contractor, with separate licenses in electrical and plumbing contracting. He owns IMS Construction Inc. in Valencia. His opinions are his own, not necessarily those of The Signal. Opinions expressed in this column are not meant to replace the recommendations of a qualified contractor after that contractor has made a thorough visual inspection. Email questions to Robert at robert@ imsconstruction.com. 

F E B R UA RY 17, 2019

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HOMEIMPROVEMENT

Water works in the Santa Clarita Valley By Marina Anderson Signal Staff Writer

Putrification vs. reverseosmosis

Some conditioners leave the minerals in the water, but separated so they won’t adhere to each other, according to various water system companies. Purification/filtration systems are supposed to greatly reduce the chlorine and other contaminants. Reverse-osmosis systems, which can be installed under your kitchen sink, are supposed to remove contaminants and minerals, such as Halo RO-6, which can also add the minerals back and balance the PH of the

SIGNAL FILE PHOTOS

hile the Santa Clarita Valley consistently receives high marks for its clean water supply, hard water is also a fact of life for many who live out here. Depending on where you live and where the main source of water is for your community, the long list of various contaminants in the water can vary from arsenic to tongue-twisting which names for carcinogenic substances, as well as numerous minerals, such as calcium and magnesium — a lot of which aren’t necessarily harmful to us in allowable amounts. Hard water, for example, isn’t caused by contaminants, it’s a situation created by naturally occurring minerals present, along with chlorine, which gives plumbers a lot of business, and homeowners a screaming depleted checking account, according to representatives from Halo and LifeSource water systems. The content of our water is why more homeowners are turning to water-filtration systems. Since salt-based water filter systems are not allowed in SCV (the systems add additional chlorine to the local effluence, which has a harmful effect on crops grown downstream of the Santa Clara River in Ventura County), other popular alternatives are being used, such as simple countertop charcoal-filtered pitchers to full house-servicing systems, like Halo or Life Source, which offer maintenance-free water-softening/de-scaling and purification filtration options.

The Castaic Lake spillway.

water, as well, leaving contaminants down the drain. Mineral deposits, such as calcium combined with magnesium, are not the only culprits wreaking havoc with plumbing, according to Shellback Plumbing and Drain owner Gary Borg. The general overall quality of the water is a considerable factor, like the amount of chlorine. It’s the minerals that stick to each other, especially when hot chlorinated or chloramine water is used that cause scale/mineral (calcium carbonate) buildup. This can cause plumbing to corrode and eventually leak (not to mention bad for your skin and hair). It appears water does not tend to clog copper pipes, but it will to galvanized and steel fixtures. “The one thing people don’t think about is the chlorine,” Borg said. “It’s actually more harmful on the fixtures than on the pipes themselves. It dries out everything.” The rubber in fixtures start to crack and break and before you know it, you have a leak. It’s one slippery slope from water intrusion to mold. “The good news is hard water is not unhealthily. The bad news is hard water causes a variety of aesthetic related problems such as, spots on glasses, dishes, build up in appliances, and also decrease the efficiency of some appliances,” explains Kathie Martin, public information officer from Santa Clarita Valley Water Agency. Martin recommends general maintenance on a hot water heaters including draining it periodically. To help dissolve calcium carbonate

The Rio Vista Treatment Plant at SCV Water.

buildup, run vinegar through your dishwasher or washing machine on an empty cycle. There are other products on the market like CLR to help with deposits, too. For glass, try Rain-X. Dan Hillard, VP of marketing for LifeSource, said,” It’s important to protect your home, your family and have that peace of mind.”

For those who want extra assurance regarding what’s in your water, be proactive. Glen Blavet, founder and CEO of Halo Water Systems, boils it down, “It’s not just the hard water, it’s the water quality in general.” Blavet recommends people bathe and drink filtered water to avoid contaminants and carcinogens. “You can be a filtration system or buy one.” 

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F E B R UA RY 17, 2019

SCHOOL

Child passenger protocols to follow

arents and caregivers take various measures to safeguard their children around their homes. The same attention to safety also extends to when families leave the house. Rules in place concerning vehicular safety are designed to keep kids safe on the road. Car seats, boosters and seat belts provide protection for infants and children when used correctly. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration states that car crashes are a leading cause of death for children ages 1-13. The NHTSA’s General Estimates System states that, in 2016, 394 children age 5 or younger died in car crashes. However, in that same year, 328 were saved by using car seats. The right car seat can save lives, but parents, especially those expecting

their first child, can easily become overwhelmed by the various types of seats on the market. Understanding the different seats, and when and how to use them, can help parents navigate their options.

Choosing a car seat

There are various types of car seats, and each may be appropriate depending on a child’s age and size.

Rear-facing This is the best seat for young children, as it cradles the child to reduce stress to the neck and spinal cord. Forward-facing This has a harness and tether that limits child’s forward movement during a crash. It is typically used for children age 2 and older. Booster This is a seat that elevates and positions the child so that the

vehicle’s seat belt fits properly over the child’s body. Seat belts are used when children outgrow boosters. They should lie across the upper thighs and be snug across the shoulder and chest. Each type of safety seat has subsets that further customize the fit and positioning for the child.

When to use a car seat

First and foremost, visit a governing agency website to determine the laws where you live in regard to car seats. Transport Canada indicates each province and territory may have its own age, height and weight restrictions. Consult the website for your province or territory for more information. The automotive agency AAA provides a state-by-state and territory/ province rundown of rules governing

CLIP N SAVE Elementary School Menus Menus courtesy of Santa Clarita Valley School Food Services which serves these school districts: Castaic USD • Newhall USD • Saugus USD • Sulphur Springs USD

(choice of one entree, seasonal fruit and milk)

Monday, Feb. 18

BREAKFAST No School

LUNCH No School

car seat use at https://drivinglaws. aaa.com/tag/child-passenger-safety. This can help residents learn which type of car seat is needed and how long to use it. For example, residents of New Jersey must keep children under age two who weigh less than 30 pounds in a rear-facing seat. Children under four who weigh less than 40 pounds must be in either a rear- or forward-facing child passenger restraint system. Children younger than eight and under 57 inches must be in a forward-facing child passenger restraint system or rear-seat booster seat. Booster seats are required until the child is age eight or weighs more than 80 pounds.

Installing the seat

Tuesday, Feb. 19

Cinnamon Roll Breakfast Bun Cereal Chilled Fruit Fresh Fruit

Bean & Cheese Burrito Chicken Nuggets PBJ Sandwich & String Cheese Smart Choice Pizza* Seasonal Salad Bar

Wednesday, Feb. 20

Breakfast Pizza* Breakfast Bun Cereal Chilled Fruit Fresh Fruit

Brunch for Lunch: Maple Burst’n Mini Pancakes & Sausage Patties* Popcorn Chicken Smart Choice Pizza* Seasonal Salad Bar Chocolate Chip Cookie

Thursday, Feb. 21

Scrambled Slider Breakfast Bun Cereal Chilled Fruit Fresh Fruit

Cheeseburger Sliders Mini Corn Dogs Smart Choice Pizza*^ Seasonal Salad Bar Brownie Cup

Friday, Feb. 22

Triple Berry Blast Mini French Toast Breakfast Bun Cereal Chilled Fruit Fruit Juice

Carnitas Quesadilla* Cheesy Quesadilla Chicken Nuggets Deli Sandwich Smart Choice Pizza* Seasonal Salad Bar

Read the car seat instructions and refer to the vehicle’s owner’s manual for proper installation. Seats for young children utilize low anchors that max out at certain weights for installation. Most forward-facing and booster seats rely on tethers to install. Child car seats save lives and help keep little ones protected on the road. 

— Metro Connection

INFORMATION MEETING

Thursday Mar. 7th 8:30am

Monday March 11th 6:30pm

28310 Kelly Johnson Pkwy, Valencia, CA 91355 TrinityClassicalAcademy.com | (661)296-2601

F E B R UA RY 17, 2019

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 25

Jasmine Thai hits all the right notes By Michelle Sathe Signal Staff Writer

f all the Asian cuisines, Thai food is my favorite. There’s something about its unique ability to marry sweet, sour, spicy, salty, and bitter that really satisfies. Jasmine Thai Noodle and Barbeque has hit those delicious notes since opening its doors in Saugus in 2005 before relocating to Valencia in 2012. Whether you are craving traditional Thai offerings, such as curry or noodle, or more unique barbecue fare, you won’t be disappointed with the vast offerings at Jasmine Thai. The menu was created by Paul Mano and his sister Pam, who run the front of house and kitchen respectively. It’s based on recipes they learned from their chef father while growing up near Bangkok and they use imported Thai ingredients whenever possible for authenticity. “Pam took our family recipes and added her own flair,” Paul Mano said. “We’ve also learned a lot about what our customers like and are happy to cater to their tastes.” Appetizers include the Golden Square ($7.95), a savory vegan dish that combines deep fried tofu with cucumber, fried shallot and garlic, mixed sesame, scallion, dried chili flake, and tamarind sauce. Jasmine Thai has a fabulous touch with tofu, creating a moist interior and perfectly crisp exterior that cradles the tangy sauce within its nooks and crannies. For a fresh start to your meal, the Som-Tam ($10.95) is a feast for the senses, delightfully melding piquant

Jasmine Thai owner Paul Mano (left) and Chef Anuchat Tonchou with several of the many dishes available at the Valencia restaurant. PHOTOS BY MICHELLE SATHE / THE SIGNAL

shredded young papaya and carrots tossed with tart lime juice, crunchy peanuts, and succulent grilled shrimp. On the barbecue side, the classic satays are stellar, but for something a little different, the Sriracha Barbecue Ribs ($11.25) are a standout, with bite-sized pork rib pieces slow roasted until the meat falls off the bone. The fork-tender meat is glazed with a spicy, sweet Sriracha sauce for a meltin-your-mouth experience. I’m a sucker for anything with a fried egg, and the Kao Kra Pow ($10.95) here is awesome. This Thai street-food favorite combines stirfried peppers with your choice of meat or more that crispy tofu, paired with a tower of steamed rice and a perfectly cooked egg. Cut everything up and toss it with the little trough of vinegar chili sauce served on the side and voilà, you’ve got Asian style comfort food with a pepper-packed punch.

Left: Sriracha BBQ Ribs ($11.25) are just one of the many delicious grilled or barbecued meat options at Jasmine Thai.

Noodles here are fabulous, whether you go with my favorite, the Pad Kee Mow ($10.25), a tangle of thick, slippery rice noodles spiced with fresh Thai chili, onion, tomato, and basil, or the popular Choa Phraya Pad Thai Topped with Egg ($12.25), which features thin rice noodles stir fried in a slightly sweet brown sauce with red onion, chili powder, crushed peanuts, and chicken and shrimp, then topped with a thin, lacy yellow omelet. Since it’s cold outside, you should really try one of Jasmine Thai’s soups served steaming in huge tureens. The Pho Tom Kha ($11.25) is a creamy, dreamy flavorful mix of coconut

Top: The Choa Phraya Pad Thai Topped with Egg ($12.25) is one of the most popular dishes in Thailand (and at Jasmine Thai). Right: Kao Kra Pow ($10.95) is Asian comfort food with a kick.

FOOD

milk, lemongrass, lime juice and chili paste stocked with long, curly noodles and slices of tender chicken. While Jasmine Thai does a lot of delivery and takeout business, the food is best enjoyed in, served piping hot with a smile. The big leather booths are comfy and the large water fountain in the front sets a Zen vibe that you can feel through the modern, yet warm restaurant. Weekends can be rather packed at Jasmine Thai, so consider coming in during the week or for lunch, where you can get one of the best deals in town, with several choices of curry, noodles, and stir fries, plus green salad, egg roll, steamed rice and your choice of soft drink or a refreshing Thai iced tea (blend of black tea and condensed milk) for just $9.95. And if you want to substitute something or can’t find what you’re craving, just ask for Paul, who’s always there and eager to please. “It means a lot to us that people have liked our food and service for so long. We’ll do whatever we can to make them happy,” he said. 

Jasmine Thai Noodle & BBQ is located at 23360 Valencia Blvd., Valencia. Open Monday to Thursday, 11 a.m. to 9:30 p.m., and Friday to Sunday, 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. For more information, call (661) 254-2012 or visit jasminethainoodleandbbq.com.

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F E B R UA RY 17, 2019

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

Dishwalla lead singer JR Richards comes to The Canyon By Crystal Duan Signal Staff Writer

f you’ve heard “Counting Blue Cars,” you’ll recognize singer J.R. Richards crooning on the track. The song, which came out when Richards was 21, became the breakout hit for his former band Dishwalla. And now his smooth vocals are coming to the Santa Clarita

Valley next month. Richards will be playing March 1 at The Canyon Santa Clarita. The singer-songwriter, musician, record producer, and television and film producer penned “Counting Blue Cars” in the ‘90’s and ultimately won a Billboard Music Awards for Top Mainstream Rock Track. Dishwalla produced four other albums with Richards as lead singer and main songwriter, before his debut

solo album “A Beautiful End” was released in 2009 and debuted in the Top 50 on iTunes. In 2016, Richards released his second solo album, “Honore et Amore,” as well as an all-acoustic album of songs he wrote while in Dishwalla. Doors open at 6 p.m. and the headliner begins at 9 p.m., with opening acts by S.o.S. and King Daniel at 7 p.m. Tickets are $20 and can be purchased at wheremusicmeetsthesoul.

com. Dinner must be purchased if a ticket is at a table. 

Find the Canyon Santa Clarita on the ground floor of the Westfield Valencia Town Center. Get tickets at the box office 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday-Saturday, by phone at (888) 645-5006, or via TicketMaster.com. For more info, visit where musicmeetstheSoul.com.

F E B R UA RY 17, 2019

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 27

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

‘Shoplifters’ and a few DVD recommendations By Dianne White Crawford Signal Contributing Writer

his week, we’re taking a look at foreign language film “Shoplifters,” as well as a few DVD recommendations from some films you might have missed throughout the year. “First Man,” “Solo: A Star Wars Story” and “Incredibles 2” were our recap choices, enjoy watching and reading — one more week until the Oscars!

“Shoplifters” (Limited Release)

(Oscar Nomination for Best Foreign Language Film, Japan) We typically think of family as blood relatives, those affiliated by marriage or adoption, and those funky cousins (sometimes ‘removed’) that, according to the family tree, are supposedly related to us. Expert Japanese filmmaker Hirokazu Koreeda presents a story that will have you questioning whether the strongest connection is blood, heart, or money. We first witness “father” Osamu Shibata and adolescent “son” Shota in a well-coordinated shoplifting maneuver at the local grocery store. On the way home they stumble across a shivering child, maybe 4 or 5 years old, who has been seemingly abandoned by her parents. They take her home to warm her up and feed her, and it’s here we discover the multi-generational family living in a tiny apartment. This family also consists of ‘grandmother’ Hatsue, “mother/wife” Nobuyo and teenage daughter Aki. As the film progresses, we get to know each of the characters and begin to care about them … rooting for them to find success. Writer-Director Koreeda draws us in with subtle scenes of interaction between the characters, each willing to sacrifice for the other. He raises the question on whether choosing one’s family might create a stronger bond than those blood ties. What really seems to matter is where we feel we belong, and where we are accepted. This is one that will grab your heart and then stick with you for a while.

Top: (from left) Kirin Kiki, Lily Franky, Sakura Andô, Mayu Matsuoka, Miyu Sasaki, and Jyo Kairi in “Shoplifters.” Right: Alden Ehrenreich and Joonas Suotamo in “Solo: A Star Wars Story.” PHOTOS COURTESY IMDB

“First Man” (2018) (Rent/Buy on Prime Video)

(Oscar Nominations for Best Visual Effects; Best Production Design; Best Sound Mixing; Best Sound Editing) “That’s one small step for man, one giant leap for mankind.” Every junior high student learns that Neil Armstrong spoke those words when he became the first person to walk on the moon’s surface in 1969. So while his words are etched into our minds and the televised visuals of the historic event are seared into our corneas, most of us know little of the man who is renowned as an American hero. Director Damien Chazelle (“La La Land” ) finds a way to personalize this man’s story. Kicking off with one of the most intense cinematic sequences ever, the film puts us inside the cockpit of a test flight with Armstrong in 1961 as he bounces off the atmosphere and rockets towards near certain death. This opening makes the statement that this is no ordinary man, and this is no ordinary movie … and we are now prepared to hold on tight! Based on James R Hansen’s book, the only biography Armstrong authorized, the script that expertly balances the test pilot/astronaut portion with the character study/personality of the man. Gosling’s quietly intense portrayal of Armstrong could be termed constrained, but it’s quite fitting given his subject. Composer Justin Hurwitz (Oscar winner for “La La Land”) delivers an unusual but fitting score, and we can’t help but realize this

would make a terrific trilogy bookended by “The Right Stuff (1983) and “Apollo 13 (1995). Chazelle presents a fitting bio of a true American hero (and yes, we can see the flag on the moon), while also giving us a look at the harrowing process of putting folks into space.

“Solo: A Star Wars Story” (2018) (Buy from Amazon or Prime Video) (Oscar Nomination for Best Visual Effects)

The second feature film directed by “Star Wars” creator George Lucas was “American Graffiti” in 1973. It starred a fresh-faced 19 year-old (mostly) TV actor named Ron Howard. Now, 45 years later, Howard directs a prequel in the Star Wars universe designed to fill in the gaps on the background of the beloved iconic character Han Solo — a role made famous, of course, by Harrison Ford. Alden Ehrenreich stars as young Han Solo, and like most everything in this film, he is fine. His boyish Han Solo is wide-eyed and already sarcastic, though the familiar grizzled cynicism of Ford’s version has yet to emerge. When we first meet Han, he is basically a Juvenile Delinquent plotting an indentured labor escape with his girlfriend Qi’ra (played by Emilia Clarke, who is fine). Qi’ra evolves the most of any character in the film, but it’s still just fine, not surprising or revolutionary. The timelines will likely be debated by Star Wars aficionados, but the fun

action sequences and dazzling special effects make it entertaining enough after a slow start.

“Incredibles 2” (2018)

(Oscar Nomination for Best Animated Film) In 2004, “The Incredibles” became the sixth Pixar film in a row to dominate the box office, and also the sixth straight to “WOW” us with a combination of animation, story, action and characters. All these years later, Brad Bird, the creative force behind the original, is back with the much anticipated sequel. Bird is not the only returnee for the sequel. Also back is the entire Parr Family: Holly Hunter as Elastigirl/ Helen/Mom, Craig T. Nelson as Mr. Incredible/Bob/Dad, Sarah Vowell as Violet, Huck Milner as Dash, and Eli Fucile as baby Jack Jack. The story picks up not long after the original ended. “Supers” have been outlawed, and the Parrs are in some type of Super Protection Program – similar to Witness Protection. As superheroes non-grata, the Parrs try to go “straight” and live a normal life. That is until a powerful brother and sister corporate duo offer a proposal. Winston Deavor (Bob Odenkirk) and Evelyn Deavor (voiced by Catherine Keener) want to generate a PR plan to help rebuild the reputation of supers. Filled with the beautiful colors and art design we’ve come to take for granted from Pixar, the film also features some of the best action sequences you’ll see in any movie. 

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F E B R UA RY 17, 2019

GARDENING

By Jane Gates Signal Staff Writer

hile many landscapes are slumbering through the winter in North America, our gardens offer plenty of outdoor activities for the Santa Clarita gardener. Historically, February is the wettest month — this year hasn’t disappointed so far — it’s still an important month for landscaping. Preparing for the spring garden now is more important than ever. Take advantage of cooler, wetter weather to redesign and plant for a rewarding landscape in spring and one that will handle whatever our climate will be offering in the future. Regular monthly chores should be handled before active spring growth starts — and with warmer tempera-

tures, growth is happening earlier each year. Garden jobs still include tree planting, pruning and trimming. Sap will start flowing soon so the window for creating minimal shock, bleeding and infection with cuts and root disturbance is coming to a close. Cutting back ornamental grasses and flowering perennials in February will keep these plants shapely and give them a good start for next year’s growth. Pruning will also create less of a water demand on root systems when active growth begins. On rainy or chilly days there is indoor work to be done for the garden. Now is the time to sketch out ideas for design changes, to plan construction projects, to renovate and update areas and to make your landscape more sustainable. By sketching out your ideas before you start work you will maintain better control of your budget, your time schedule, the materials you will need and catch potentially expensive mistakes before they

COURTESY PHOTOS

A few tips as winter winds down

Prune trees and shrubs properly to keep them healthy.

become a reality. You can also do some hands-on gardening indoors during inclement weather. Try starting delicate flowers, hard-to-find plants and get an early jump on the most cold-sensitive edibles by growing them from seed in a

window or under a grow light. Most people delay working on their gardens until the springtime rush. But summer heat has been showing up earlier and earlier for the past half-dozen years, cutting short the See TIPS, page 35

Pre s e n ted by Va le n cia B M W

F R (EN OET I CCK EOT S NN E ECD E ED ) R T

Please join us for what is expected to be a wonderful afternoon of classical and popular music by Santa Clarita’s only professional level orchestra.

Featuring:

The winner of the 5th annual Student Concerto Competition Ke i g o Ta m a k i

Also on the program: Beethoven’s Egmont Overture Mozart’s Symphony No. 40 “Overture to Brian’s House” from a film score by concertmaster Kirk Hunter Theme from “Cinema Paradiso” Selections from “Hamilton” Suite from “Dances with Wolves”

WWW.SCPHILHARMONIC.ORG

F E B R UA RY 17, 2019

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 29

SENIORLIVING

A SECOND WIND

Memory and imagination By Mary Petersen Signal Staff Writer

y friend recommended a book to me a few

HEAR EVERY PRECIOUS WHISPER

We are looking for 25 people to demo our newest Bluetooth hearing devices, NO OBLIGATION* for 45-days! • Your hearing device is now your own personal headset • Clearly hear your music, phone, TV and audio books directly to your hearing devices • Enhance sound quality and reduce background noise • Bluetooth hearing devices are compatible with iPhones or Android smart phones

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See MEMORY, page 35

COURTESY PHOTO.

weeks ago — “Adventures in Memory.” This, ironically, after I boasted in my last column that seniors have broader interests than just learning memory tips and techniques. But the subtitle intrigued me — “The Science and Secrets of Remembering and Forgetting.” Who doesn’t like a good secret? To be clear, the book is not a selfhelp manual written by a 20-something YouTube celebrity. One of the writers is a neuropsychologist and researcher, the other a celebrated novelist and editor. Together they present science-based research in a very readable style. I discovered that I don’t know much about how memory works. I always thought of memory as a sort of repository of experiences in our lives. I knew about long-term and short-term memory and that memory is unreliable. (Ask five witnesses about an incident they observed and get five different responses.) But I learned about why memory is unreliable. It’s because a memory is not like a read-only PDF, fixed and unalterable. The authors explain that

memory is more like live theater. We create new productions of a memory each time we remember it. We maintain the central story or outline of the experience, but it’s reconstructed each time we recall it and subconsciously fill in the details with probable facts from a sort of memory prop room where persons, things, and actions are stored in a memory network. I’m not making this up. This is the brain’s way of freeing up space since we don’t need to store the exact details of every experience. So remembering is actually reimagining what happened. Because memory is elastic and not fixed, memories can become confused or murky. Desires or fantasies can sneak into memory and seem like they really happened. The more time that passes, the more likely it is that the details change in our memory. So what is the value of memory if it is unreliable rather than stable and permanent? Memory would serve no vital function if memories were merely unchanging objects used to reminisce about the past. Researchers suggest that memory’s evolutionary function is related not to just recalling the past but to envisioning the future. Brain MRIs show striking similarity in brain activity when people reminisce and when they imagine the future. It’s the same process. Our memory is flexible because it’s essential for mental time travel into the future. Memory is utilized to gen-

Researchers have suggested that our memory’s evolutionary function is related not to just recalling the past, but to envisioning the future.

We Love To Help You Hear

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F E B R UA RY 17, 2019

T R AV E L

Discover Ireland: Fun for the whole family By Michele E. Buttelman Signal Staff Writer

hen we think of Ireland, we often conjure up images of shamrocks, St. Patrick’s Day and leprechauns. However, there’s more to Ireland than corned beef and cabbage. Fact: While that’s a commonly served St. Patrick’s Day meal in American celebration, in Ireland, it’s pretty hard to find. That’s because it was an American creation, mistakenly dubbed the national dish of Ireland. Irish stew would be a more authentic choice.

Facts about The Republic of Ireland

There are a lot of fun ways to educate kids about Ireland, regardless of whether you plan to go there. Find Ireland on a globe, show your children where you live and how far away Ireland is. Ireland is the 20th largest island in the world. Ireland is about six times smaller than California. It is 32,595 square miles. California is 163,696 square miles. The population of Ireland is 4.8 million, compared to the population of 10.16 million in Los Angeles County. The Irish flag is a horizontal flag with green, white and orange vertical stripes. Many Irish family names start with “Mac” or “O’...”, which means respectively “son of ...” and “grandson of ...” in Gaelic. Celtic languages like

Cliffs of Moher. Ireland is known for its bucolic landscape, rich history and culture that stretches back thousands of years. PHOTO COURTESY IRELAND TOURISM BUREAU

Gaelic are spoken in both Ireland and Scotland. The oldest working lighthouse in the world is located in Ireland. Hook Lighthouse at Hook Head, in County Wexford was completed around 1172 to 1245. The first lighthouse on that spot dates back to the 5th century.

History

If your family’s DNA test shows you have Irish roots it is likely the Irish Potato Famine, also known as the Great Hunger, is a factor. The famine began in 1845 when a fungus-like organism spread rapidly throughout Ireland. The infestation ruined up to one-half of the potato crop that year, and about three-quar-

ters of the crop over the next seven years. The tenant farmers of Ireland, ruled as a colony of Great Britain, relied heavily on the potato as a source of food. Before the disaster ended in 1852, the Potato Famine resulted in the death of roughly one million from starvation and many were forced to leave their homeland as refugees. More than 1.5 million Irish immigrated to America during the famine. Ireland has been the scene of many conquests throughout history. The Vikings and then the British have controlled Britain at various times throughout history. Irish nationalists fought for a free and independent Ireland for many years. In 1948 the Republic of Ireland was born and all ties to Britain were cut.

St. Patrick

Mullaghmore Head is the home of big wave surfing in Ireland, and surfers come from all over the world to test their skills against epic waves. PHOTO COURTESY IRELAND TOURISM BUREAU

St. Patrick was born in 385 in what is now Scotland. He was captured by barbarian Irish pirates when he was 16 and worked as a shepherd and farm labor. He escaped back to Britain after six years in Ireland. However, he soon began his quest to convert pagan Ireland to Christianity. Saint Patrick’s Day is observed on March 17, the supposed date of his death. In 1903, St. Patrick’s Day became an official public holiday in Ireland. Historically St. Patrick’s Day was

celebrated as a religious holiday and “feast day” in Ireland. Modern festivities now include parades, festivals and a celebration of Irish culture. St. Patrick is credited with “driving all the snakes from Ireland” and chasing them into the sea after they attacked him during a 40-day fast he was undertaking on top of a hill. He’s also credited with giving the shamrock an important place in Irish culture.

Myths

Ireland is famous for its myths and legends that have been passed on from generation to generation. From goddesses to high kings, giants to leprechauns, Ireland is overflowing with stories that have very much become a part of the history and culture of Ireland. The leprechaun is the most famous of all Irish mythological creatures. He is a cobbler who collects gold and hides it at the end of a rainbow. Fairies are believed to be the Tuatha de Danann, one of the first tribes to arrive in Ireland, they were a magical and secretive people. They are blamed by the local Irish for much of the unexplained. As a result, the fairies like to be left alone, and it’s considered bad luck to disturb a fairy bower. Traditionally, many people would See Ireland, page 33

F E B R UA RY 17, 2019

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 31

SCHOOL

Ecos Chicos gain environmental education, teach lessons By Brennon Dixson Signal Staff Writer

ike the trash that accumulates in watersheds throughout Southern California, the discussion on the effects of global warming has only increased over the years, but thanks to local clubs like Ecos Chicos, Santa Clarita Valley residents have a way to become active in the fight to save the environment. More than 100 Canyon High School students flocked to the sandy shores of Santa Monica this winter, where they combed the beach and collected cans, plastic and other harmful waste alongside geography professor Mary Bates, Santa Clarita Hiking Club President Dianne Erskine-Hellrigel and fellow peers from other Hart District schools. The event, which was preceded by a local river clean-up in September, was organized in an effort to “show people the importance of activism and making the world a better place,” club advisor Dennis Yong said. With the assistance of Yong, Ecos Chicos club President Caroline Shoemake and the students who comprise the Canyon High School chapter of the club, which has chapters at multiple Hart District high schools, descended upon — what they consider — their local beach for a few hours of volunteer cleanup work. Shoemake said she thinks of Santa Monica as one of the dirtier beaches

Dozens of Canyon High students recently joined in a cleanup effort at Santa Monica as part of their volunteer work with Eco Chicos. COURTESY PHOTOS

in SoCal because of the hamburger wrappings, styrofoam cups and other objects that float in the waves and dot the city’s picturesque pier above. The group has hosted its annual beach clean-up for multiple years now, according to Shoemake, but they try to find other ways to assist wildlife and the environment in other ways as well. Last year, students in the club planted trees for the areas affected by fires that broke out near the Placerita Nature Center, Yong said, “And we host hikes Santa Clarita to get (students) outside and expose them to nature and the beauty of the environment.” Shoemake said the Santa Monica beach trip was “super successful” because other people on the beach were able to view the cleanup and students in action, which prompts curiosity and encourages people to educate themselves the importance of cleaning the environment. “I think as a community we all need to help each other to educate ourselves and spread the word about how the environment affects us as a society and world,” Shoemake added.

It can be a few seconds of the day spent recycling or picking up litter you see on a walk or something that takes no time at all like reusing bags. “Anything to restore our planet,” she said. The members of Ecos Chicos said people have become more aware of how they impact the earth, which has helped change the stereotype that surrounded those who cared for animals and nature. “For me, as an instructor and club advisor, I want to inspire students to stand up for what they believe in and assist them in their endeavor to make the world better,” Yong said. When students feel proud that they

Cutting down Extra waste generated between Thanksgiving and New Year’s amounts to 25 million tons of garbage, or about 1 million extra tons per week, according to Use Less Stuff, which aims to help people conserve resources and prevent waste. But there are things we can do year-round to help cut down on waste. Here are some tips Green Santa Clarita has to share (GreenSantaClarita.com):

Reduce • Consider LED lights. They use 90 percent less energy than traditional incandescent lights, stay cool to the touch and have a much longer life expectancy.

The Santa Monica beach trip was “super successful” because other people on the beach were able to view the cleanup and students in action, which prompts curiosity, according to organizers, said Shoemake.

are part of the solution, they in turn influence others — like their family and friends — to make changes in their daily lives,” he said. “This allows them to be activists,” and by going out to the beach and river clean-ups, students are able to learn about the problems of the ocean and see the impact on the birds, turtles and marine life firsthand. “Our goal is to promote sustainability and we want our actions to speak for themselves,” Yong said. It’s why the club has introduced more than 30 recyclable bins around campus and encourages students to purchase Hydro Flasks or other reusable bottles that prevent the one-time use of plastic, Shoemake said. “We urge students to carpool, we reuse gloves from the cleanups,” and the group always, always recycles. “At all levels we are doing what we can to help the world,” Shoemake said. “It’s the culture at Canyon High.” “It’s trendy to be green,” Yong added. “We are putting the green in the green and gold.” 

• Consider curbing your outdoor watering activity when it’s rainy outside. Carpool when going to parties or events. • Instead of purchasing a gift,

donate to a local organization in a friend or family member’s name.

Reuse • Purchase rechargeable batteries for gifts that require battery power. • Save and reuse gift bags, wrapping paper and bows. • Use your own reusable bags when shopping for gifts or food. • Donate unused, non-perishable food to the local food pantry.

Recycle • Look for purchases made from recycled content. • Recycle cardboard packaging, seasonal catalogs, cards and used wrapping paper. • Donate or recycle unwanted or non-working electronics, including computers, cell phones, tablets and televisions. 

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H E A LT H

Keeping healthy in the office By Taylor Villanueva Signal Staff Writer

elieve it or not, there are plenty of ways to stay active in small increments throughout the day that will keep you feeling fit and healthy. Personal trainer Sierra Schotts says it’s best to start with the simple things: “First, I want to mention posture and form,” Schotts explains. “Over time, people develop improper posture from not sitting correctly at their desk, extending their neck to look at their computer screen or other situations.” Posture is important for staying strong enough to do workouts. “Remember your posture while sitting at your desk and throughout your everyday life,” she says. “Posture and form are both extremely important when it comes to workout out and everyday life.” One of the simplest ways to stay

active during work hours is to move around every hour. “You can set a timer on your phone every day to get up from your desk and move around your office. Stretch or go outside and get some fresher air.” Private personal trainer Theressa Giammarco explains the different ways to get creative with office workouts. “If you’re in an office, I would say simple stuff,” she says. “Sitting and standing from your chair.” For a leg workout, Giammarco suggests calf raises, as those are easy to do in an office environment. All that takes is lifting your body weight onto the balls of your feet. “Set little reminders through your day on your phone, watch or around your desk at work to check your posture and even stop and breathe,” she says. “We can get very stressed at work, so set reminders to take a few deep breaths throughout your work

While it can seem impossible some days to fit a workout into the work week, there are a few things you can do to help you stay healthier in the office.

day. The happier you are, the more productive you are.” Kinesiology student Kyle Candalla also stressed the importance of workplace posture. “The main thing for people work-

ing in office jobs is trying to prevent pain or any kind of problems that may arise from sitting for long periods of time,” Candalla says. Candalla also encourages movement throughout the day. “A good idea is to get up every 20-30 minutes if possible and go through a stretch. Wall slides are good stretches.” Wall slides start with standing with your back against the wall. Place your arms against the wall horizontally then slide them up the wall until they are vertical. “If (you) have a yoga mat, (you) can do glute bridges during a break at work,” she added. Most importantly, remember to relax as much as possible and keep the tension away. “Remember to breathe while working out,” says Schotts. “This can help prevent injury.” 

F E B R UA RY 17, 2019

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 33

Irish soda bread recipe By MIchele E. Buttelman Signal Staff Writer

othing is more fun than to bake with your children. This teaches math skills and also offers up a life lesson on where food comes from. It might get messy, but that’s also a life lesson: Cleaning Irish soda bread is a local favorite made from soft up after yourself! Irish Soda Bread was first wheat. face and knead gently a few times. created in Ireland in the late 1830s. Form the dough into a ball and Due to Ireland’s financial strife and then press into the prepared pan lack of access to ingredients, the so that the dough resembles a inspiration for Irish Soda Bread was one of necessity, making something large disk. The dough should edible out of basic and inexpensive reach the edges of the pan, but ingredients. may spring back slightly.

Traditional Irish Soda Bread Ingredients 4 cups flour 2 teaspoons baking soda 1 teaspoon salt 1 3/4 cups buttermilk

Directions 1. Preheat oven to 425 degrees. Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan. 2. In a large bowl, combine the flour, baking soda and salt. Gradually stir in the buttermilk until the dough comes together in a slightly sticky ball. 3. Turn dough onto a floured sur-

IRELAND

continued from page 30 leave a small serving of milk on the doorstep for the passing fairies. Some people in Ireland believed if they didn’t leave a helping of their milk for the wee folk, the fairies would become angry and play tricks on them.

Books and Film

Take the kids down to Barnes & Noble Bookseller, 23630 Valencia Blvd., Valencia, 91355 to find fun books about Ireland and St. Patrick’s Day. The bookstore usually has a special display to celebrate the “wearing of the green.” Among the popular titles are: “S is

4. Cut an X into the dough with a sharp knife, about a quarter-inch deep. Cover the pan of dough with another round cake pan turned upside down. 5. Bake for 25-30 minutes, covered, then remove the top pan and bake uncovered for about 10 minutes more or until the crust is dark golden brown. I do not know why you put the upside-down cake pan over the top of the dough, but I do know that you must follow the directions. It makes all the difference. I forgot this step once, and the results were an uneven bake with a doughy unbaked center. for Shamrock: An Ireland Alphabet,” “This is Ireland: A Children’s Classic” and “How to Catch a Leprechaun.” The Oscar-nominated animated film “Song of the Sea” (2014) follows the story of an Irish boy and his sister to save the fairies. The Oscar-nominated animated film “The Secret of Kells” (2009) is about a young boy who finds adventure when a celebrated master illuminator arrives with an ancient book, brimming with secret wisdom and powers. Walt Disney’s family-friendly film “Darby O’Gill and the Little People” (1959) features a wily old codger who matches wits with the king of the leprechauns. Yes, it’s dated, but it’s still fun. 

Crafts and Activities

There are dozens of fun Irish-themed crafts. Kids Scavenger Hunt Making shamrocks, rainbows, pots of gold and 10 shamrocks leprechaun hats are all good, creative exercises. A box of Lucky Charms (availAdd some green glitter to make it even better. able in single serving sizes) A fun exercise can be a “scavenger hunt” inside An Irish flag your home to find Irish-themed items you’ve A potato hidden around the house. Try hiding shamrocks A picture of a Celtic Knot (availinside the refrigerator, sock drawer and inside able on Google Images) a kitchen cabinet to make it more challenging Something green for older kids. The winner receives a pot of gold A leprechaun’s green hat chocolate coins for being the first to finish. Or A rainbow you can reward each child who finishes. A fairy

Michele makes shepherd’s pie By Michele Buttelman Signal Staff Writer

his recipe is always a hit with my family. My secret is that I use lamb rather the traditional ground beef. There were 8 of us in our blended family so I was taught how to make enough food to feed an army. If this recipe looks like you’ll be drowning in leftovers you might want to cut it in half and bake it in a 9-inch square glass baking dish.

Family Favorite Shepherd’s Pie Ingredients 2 lbs. ground lamb (if I can’t find ground lamb, I buy lamb shoulder chops and cut the meat into a fine mince.) Morton Nature’s Seasoning to taste 1/3 cup all-purpose flour 1 tsp. salt ½ tsp. ground black pepper 2 tsp. minced fresh rosemary 3 cloves garlic, minced

(Note: I use Idahoan Instant Mashed Potatoes because they come in a variety of flavors, sometimes I use the Four Cheese or Sour Cream and Chive mashed potatoes, and on occasion the Applewood Smoked Bacon flavor). 2 tbsp. butter

Directions Preheat the oven to 375 degrees. 1. Season the lamb with Morton Nature’s Seasoning, then brown the lamb in a small amount of butter. Drain the fat and return to the pan. Add rosemary, flour, salt, pepper and garlic. Cook on medium heat for about 3 minutes. 2. Add water, reduce heat to medium-low and simmer until mixture thickens, about five minutes. 3. Remove from heat and stir in onions, corn, peas and carrots until combined. Combine mushroom soup and stir well.

4. Spread the mixture evenly into a 9x13-inch baking dish. Before topping with the mashed potatoes 1 (12 ounce) package frozen peas and carrots, thawed add the extra butter to the mashed potatoes and stir thoroughly. Top 1/2 (12 ounce) package frozen sweet the lamb mixture with the mashed corn, thawed potatoes and spread to cover. 1 large sweet onion, diced 2 1/2 cups water

1 can Campbell’s Condensed Mushroom Soup 4 cups mashed potatoes (made from scratch or made from instant potato buds or flakes. Follow package directions).

5. Bake until the top is golden brown and sauce is bubbling up around the edges, 35-45 minutes, (I’ve had to bake it for an hour on occasion if I top it with an extra thick layer of mashed potatoes).

34 · S U N D AYS I G N A L

F E B R UA RY 17, 2019

OVERLORDS

ideal look of the game and had to spend a lot of their own money going to conventions, traveling around the country, and making the prototypes.

“There was a lot that we had to do at first and there was a big question mark as to whether or not we’d fund,” said Zuckman. But fund they did. To their amazement, when the group put “Overlords of Infamy” on Kickstarter they received 184 percent of what they asked for. Their funding goal was met within the first four and a half days. Zuckman however, sees a much greater reward than this success. “Overlords of Infamy” is currently back on Kickstarter because the group is doing a reprint of the game, which was sold out in 2017. Several upgrades to the game are being made, as well as an expansion pack. “Our goal is to make a game that will allow someone to sit down for an hour or two and forget about their problems,” said Zuckman. “If we can do that we feel like we’ve made a difference in the world. We’ve done something good with our lives.” 

son played football in Germany and he struggled with the homesickness thing and the barriers, so I knew. I saw the look on her face. I’ve seen that face; my son had it. “She said to me, ‘I was thinking of coaching and what better place to do that then the place that changed my life.’” Green joined Canyons coaching staff officially, and it’s been a tremendous experience for her, Herrick and the players. She is learning from one of the best coaches in women’s basketball, an innovator of the fast break, and he’s got an enthusiastic coach who he hopes will one day take the reigns from him

when he decides to retire. And the players have someone who has been in their shoes and knows what it takes to succeed. “Coach Herrick wasn’t playing me at all my first year. I was sitting on the bench and this is where my inspiration came to other people. Look what I did, from a Division II-dropout, I came here, sat on the bench and I didn’t play at all,” Green said. “When my opportunity came, I took advantage of it. I worked so hard, and it’s not to brag, but I went from that to being a professional and my name is in the locker room and I broke records and I got a Division I scholarship.” While Green hasn’t completely ruled out returning to play professional ball, she is focused on the Canyons program and helping continue the legacy that Herrick started. “Basketball is my first love and that was one of the hardest things when I decided to stop doing it. That’s setting in now, that competitive side of it. It’s gone in that sense of I have a jersey on me, that part’s gone,” she said. “It’s like a relationship. I broke up with someone, it’s kind of that feeling. “Never say never. I’m not someone to say that because I still love to play, but I’m focused here. There’s potential for me here, head coach, not only here but anywhere,” she said. “So I’m just deciding what I want to do and what my future is going to look like.” 

Continued from page 15

Players gather a set of materials to accomplish zany and nefarious plots. These plots consist of everything from “Throttle Internet Speeds to 56k” to “Make Everyone’s Socks Slightly Damp.” The actions you choose to commit cause world tension to build, which cause “World Events.” These events can either assist or prevent you and your opponents from achieving their goals. A hero also exists within the game whose goal is to thwart your plans. The winning player is the one who earns the most “Misery Points” by the end of the game. “We take the entire trope of evil villains and flip it on its head,” said Zuckman. “You are playing as an evil villain and the worst thing in the world is the adventuring hero.”

Pictured above are the crazy, kooky and wacky characters that make up the “Villains” of the board game. COURTESY PHOTO

Although the game is a success now, it took a lot of time and resources to get it to where it is today. The group went through many artists to get the

COUGAR

Continued from page 13

the Missouri Valley Conference in blocks. “My first year was definitely a struggle going from a community college-level to all of a sudden Division I. It was a big jump, but I was so blessed to be able to do it because it was such a challenge and such a great experience,” Green said. “I have so many good things to say about Illinois State. I was able to develop in all areas of life on and off the court.” After graduation, Green came home for a short period of time to train before heading off to Sweden to play professionally for Wetterbygden Basket. After two months she moved to Portugal and signed with S.L. Benfica, one of the top clubs in Portugal, where she played for another two months before coming back home. “I was overseas for about four months. It was a great experience, and I’m really glad I got to do it. There was a lot of things I didn’t consider I was so gung ho. I was like I’m doing this, this is my career, I’m going to play overseas, I’m going to play in the WNBA, which has always been a dream of mine,” she said. “I really didn’t take into consideration the sacrifices that i was going to be

making in order to do that. I decided personal things in my life, my body and what it was really going to look like for me, I decided that’s not what I wanted it to look like.” Less than 24 hours after touching back down in Southern California, Green reached out to Herrick and expressed her interest in coaching. A day later, Green was in Herrick’s office and he brought her to practice to help out, still jet-lagged and all. “She came to me the day before Thanksgiving — I thought she was still in Europe,” Herrick recalled. “I said to her, ‘What’s going on; is your season over?’ She said it just didn’t work out, and I knew because my

35 · S U N D AYS I G N A L

TIPS

Continued from page 28

chance for delicate growth to prepare for our scorching sun. With summer arriving early and lasting longer, autumn and winter are turning into our best growing seasons. Frosts are less of a threat than they were a decade ago, too, so we can now plant and seed many flowers and edibles in February. This means you can start the traditional spring garden as early as this month. But do outdoor planting and seeding with caution. Very sensitive plants that don’t like temperatures under 45⁰ may need some extra protection during chilly nights. Keep newspaper or cloth like burlap available to throw over less hardy plants when frost is predicted. Or wait one more month. Waiting is best for planting edibles like tomatoes (cherry toma-

F E B R UA RY 17, 2019

toes are the hardiest), peppers, corn and squash and for tender flowers. This is the last chance to get spring-blooming bulbs and bare-root trees and shrubs into the garden since many of these are already sprouting into active growth. They will still be fine if you pop them into the ground and keep them deeply watered. They just require more care as they break dormancy. Most of our local garden centers bring in plants that are ready to be planted. Some nurseries keep stock year round. Plants that have spent months or even years growing in the local climate will have an easier adjustment to you garden environment than those raised and shipped in from growers from further away. Which reminds me, don’t believe everything you read. Just because a tag says a plant will like full sun does not mean you should set it out in the full sun of Santa Clarita. Most plant

Sprouting pepper seedlings.

SENIORS

Continued from page 29

erate plans for the future, and visions of the future are a natural part of past memories. Memory researchers now regard future thinking as one of the core functions of memory, paradoxical as it sounds. This research also sheds light on forgetting. As we get older and experience glitches in brain function, forgetfulness feels like the first step in a downhill slide. But barring brain disease, forgetting is a natural part of the remembering process. Some memories need to depart to make way for new, more important

ones. Working memory can only hold so much. And by the way, worries clog up the working memory, prohibiting the flow of actual information that needs processing. The authors urge us to “accept forgetting and let it do the job of chiseling out the most important things that will stand out like monuments in our memories, even if that means forgetting all the little things we wish we could remember.” If you’re still not convinced that some forgetting is OK, and would rather pursue memory tips and techniques, the memory can indeed be trained to remember better. But training the memory doesn’t seem

Wildflowers can provide a riot of color in early spring.

material is raised and imported here from artificially controlled greenhouse environments all over the country. Tags are written for the average garden nationwide. Our sun is more intense than most areas. If a tag says give it a full or half-day of sun, you might find it will burn here without more shade. One handy tip for February is how to fill in empty landscape areas. Vacant spaces can be quickly and easily populated by lightly raking in a fistful of wildflower seeds. They can also be sprinkled liberally between small trees, shrubs and flowering plants that have yet to grow into the space they will need when mature. If rain doesn’t come, keep seeds moist — at least on the surface. Once they sprout, they will grow and bloom quickly to fill those spaces with rampant color. Most are annuals so they are not likely to crowd out the longer-lived perennials as they grow. And who knows?

You might be lucky to have some self-seed to dot the area with a new generation next year — for free. The weather is cool and comfortable for working outdoors in the winter months. You can allow leaves to remain as mulch on the ground for a little longer if you want. They will help keep soil moist after rains, letting it penetrate deeper rather than evaporating right away. But feel free to clean up dead stems, sticks and flower heads. Neatening the landscape up now will save work later. February is also the perfect time to start building projects. If you put in that outdoor room, replace your lawn, set up the new child or pet area or install a place for games or entertainment, you’ll be ready to enjoy your new outdoor extended living space as soon as the weather calls you out to play — with landscape features that will require no costly irrigation. 

to broadly improve overall memory. It just improves the kind of task that one practices remembering. So if you practice memorizing lists of words, you’ll get good at remembering lists of words. If you want to get good at remembering names at cocktail parties, you can utilize techniques to do that. But even if you work daily crossword puzzles, you still might walk your bedroom, stand glassy-eyed, and not remember why you’re there. In Greek mythology, the Goddess of Memory, Mnemosyne (like mnemonic device) is the mother of the nine inspirational muses who rule over the arts. So even in Greek mythology, the ability to imagine or create is closely

related to memory. Humans are visionaries, and the basis for our visions lodges in our memories. By some calculations people spend more than half of their waking hours letting their minds wander between memories and future thoughts. This time spent imagining may be the most productive use of our memory. So let the mind wander and create, embrace experiences even though some details may be lost, and don’t fret if you feel you haven’t done enough Sudoku puzzles today. 

Mary Petersen is a retired COC English Instructor, 30 year SCV resident, and two-time breast cancer survivor.

36 · S U N D AYS I G N A L

F E B R UA RY 17, 2019

PETS

Pet owners: 5 trends to watch in 2019 fitness bands, fitness trackers and apps for pets are also on the rise, said Garber.

By Tammy Murga Signal Staff Writer

rom lavish spa treatments to the finest treats, there are no doubts pet owners of today will go the extra mile to better the lives of their furry companions. “The Santa Clarita Valley has a very large population of pets,” said Jaime Garber, dog trainer with Santa Clarita Valley Pet Care in Valencia. “Besides that (one-on-one) connection with your pet, it’s fun to know what’s out there.” Here are five areas to watch:

Tracking

With busy schedules, pet parents cannot always stick around their pets’ sides. Devices that track what an animal is doing when alone can put one’s mind at ease. Smart gadgets such as the Scollar Collar use GPS technology to alert owners where a pet is at all times,

Food

There are a number of opportunities that have come to market in the last year or so that better our pets’ lives. SIGNAL FILE PHOTOS

while also sending owners flea and tick medication reminders and opening radio frequency-enabled pet doors. Pawscout, a smart pet tag, is a community pet-finder, which can map out where a pet is in real-time within a 300-foot range of anyone using the Pawscout app.

Fitness and play

Similar to the human version of

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When it comes to food and supplements, Garber said many brands are venturing into prescription diets to help pets reach health goals and target certain issues, such as anxiety. For example, Nestle Purina is working on launching its Calming Care Canine Probiotic supplement to help dogs maintain calm behavior, and cope with external stressors, like separation and unfamiliar visitors. Pet owners should always consult with their veterinarian for the best recommendation, said Garber. “Like with us, the higher-quality food we feed our pets, the healthier we are. It’s just important to discuss with our vets to make sure our pets are taking in what’s best for them.”

Genetic testing

Much like the DNA genetic testing

and analysis companies available today, such as 23 and Me, pet parents may also be able to test their pets. Veterinary medical advances have given way to this form of testing, which can help identify breeds and those at risk of certain conditions or diseases. “Rescuing dogs and adopting is a great thing,” said Garber. “People become curious about what breed their pet is and using genetic testing can be a fun way to learn, although it may not be 100-percent (accurate).”

Fear-free environments

Although not a 2019 initiative, the fear-free movement is one a growing number of veterinary clinics are adopting. Founded in 2016 by Dr. Marty Becker, known as “America’s Veterinarian,” the mission of the initiative is to “prevent and alleviate fear, anxiety and stress in pets by inspiring and educating the people who care for them.” 

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F E B R UA RY 17, 2019

Give your mind a workout with these brainy exercises!

BRAINGAMES

Relax

S U N D AYS I G N A L Î&#x2021; 37

38 · S U N D AYS I G N A L

CROSSWORD TIME

THE VILLAGE IDIOT

F E B R UA RY 17, 2019

Signs of the times By Jim Mullen Signal Contributing Writer

ou’re from out of town going 65 mph down the highway heading west, and you want to catch another highway going north. What do you think the exit sign should say in 3-foot-tall letters? A) Gophertown B) Exit 42 C) Gov. Tiddwilly Memorial Highway D) Pinewood Mall Quick, you’ve got nanoseconds to decide. It is part of the new theory in highway sign design — signs for people who already know where they are going. If you know where you are going, what do you need a sign for? Shouldn’t signs be for people like me, out-of-towners who don’t know what direction Gophertown is from here? I had plenty of time to think about it as I traveled west for 20 more miles. Of course, some signs tell you more than you need to know. On the outskirts of one little down-on-its-heels town in our county is a ramshackle country store with a large sun-faded sign over the porch that says “Worms, Bait, Computers.” I figure the worms are just loss-leaders to pull in the computer customers. When we lived in the city, Sue and I used to go to a seafood restaurant that had a picture of a crab on one restroom door, a picture of a lobster on the other. We used to have great fun watching people get up from their table and head for the restrooms, only to be stumped by the signs. Sometimes, they’d just shrug their shoulders and cautiously push on one or the other, but often they’d slink back to their tables, confused and distressed. Then we’d hear raised voices back at their table. “Of course the lobster is the men’s room. Lobsters are bigger than crabs.” “So, you think women are crabs?” We saw many a nice anniversary dinner go down the tubes after that.

The truth was, it didn’t matter. The restrooms were only big enough for one person. You locked the door, and it was your personal restroom. A few years ago, there was a craze for signs on cars that said “Baby on Board.” I always wondered what the parents were trying to tell us? That it would be OK to ram them from behind with great speed if it were only adults in the car? Wouldn’t that still be wrong? Airports go out of their way to come up with confusing signs. Where else in the world would you see a sign directing you to “Ground Transportation”? Doesn’t that just roll off the tongue? “Honey, I’m taking the Ground Transportation to the store. Anything you need while I’m there?” Our last trip, we took a free courtesy bus from the airport terminal to our car in the long-term parking lot. We had to stand on the crowded bus, and in the back of the bus was a sign that said C-O-U-R-T-E-S-Y written vertically. C — Courtesy is not a word; it’s our No. 1 job. O — Our passengers deserve the very best. U — Use the courtesy bus every time you travel. R — Respect is not just a slogan, it’s our policy. T — I didn’t get past T. Our driver was screaming through the closed door at a woman trying to get on the courtesy bus. He wouldn’t open the door for her. He kept yelling, “Catch the next one! Catch the next one!” through the closed door as he pulled away. It was raining. She had a small child in one arm and was dragging a big piece of luggage behind her. She chased the bus for a few yards before she gave up. The problem seemed to be that sign was in the back of the bus where the passengers could read it, instead of in the front of the bus where the driver could have read it. 

Contact Jim Mullen at mullen. jim@gmail.com. 100 YEARS

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