Sunday Signal March 3, 2019 by Signal

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MARCH 3, 2019

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M A R C H 3, 2019

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 3

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M A R C H 3, 2019

LEATHER FURNITURE

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TABLE OF CONTENTS NEWS FEATURES

LOCAL NEWS

5 Touring one of SCV’s most storied parks 7 Suspect’s death resolves unsolved murder 8 11 12

Landslides and rain: HOAs take action Landslide victims prepare for months of hardships Mobile home park an eyesore New lawsuit expands allegations at daycare Agua Dulce crashes prompt traffic enforcement

CITY MANAGER

13 One Story, One City

SPORTS 14 14 Finding her fun on the mat

THINGS TO DO

REAL ESTATE

TIME RANGER OPINION

17 18

15 Spring festivals 28 Wildflower season is upon us 16 Safety first in when selling 18 Our View • David Hegg • Tim Whyte • Sen. Scott Wilk

CALENDAR 21 HOME IMPROVEMENT

FEATURING:

22 Your Home Improvement

CONSUMERS FURNITURE G A L L E R Y

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TRAVEL 23 23 Parts north: America’s tallest trees

SCHOOL 24 24 The connection between eating and energy

KIDS & FAMILY

35 Donna’s day: Meeting the monarch

FOOD 25 25 Where to find the best soups

ENTERTAINMENT 26 6 Menopause The Musical at The Canyon 2 27 A look back at Oscar night

PROFILE 30 0 Sharing chess challenges, lessons 3 37 In service to SCV seniors

FAMILY BUSINESS INTERIOR DESIGN

31 38

38 Mastering your space

SENIORS 39 39 Connecting with Alzheimer’s sufferers

BRAIN GAMES

VILLAGE IDIOT

41 Games • Crossword 42 When the taxman cometh … 100 YEARS

SignalSCV. com

Richard Budman Perry Smith Tim Whyte Brad Lanfranco Doña Uhrig Karen Bennett • Abner Gutierrez

Publisher Sunday Signal Editor Signal Editor Advertising Director Production Manager Graphic Designers

26330 Diamond Place, Suite 100 | Santa Clarita, CA 91350

661-259-1234 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. PHOTO BY DAN WATSON / THE SIGNAL

M A R C H 3, 2019

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 5

Hart Park is full of family fun N E W S F E AT U R E

By Michele Lutes Signal Staff Writer

sanctuary of all things cowboy — in the core of our city, William S. Hart Regional Park sits on 265 acres, hosting a wealth of history for film, Santa Clarita and much more. “There is a really rich history,” said Eric Reifman, regional park superintendent for William S. Hart Park, “a real history of Santa Clarita and film.” The park gets its name from the previous tenant and silent western film star from the 1900s, William Surrey Hart.

William S. Hart

“He was ‘Mr. Film,’” Reifman said. “He was in silent films, and he made it big.” Hart was born in Newburgh, N.Y., on William S. Hart Dec. 6, 1864, and began his acting career in his 20s. His career on stage lasted nearly 30 years before he came to Hollywood at age 49 to begin his career in movies. He made more than 65 silent films, his last and one of his most popular being “Tumbleweeds,” in 1925, said Roger Basham, a member of nonprofit organization, Friends of Hart Park. Hart wrote 11 books throughout his life — many available for purchase at the park’s gift shop. Hart purchased the SCV ranch house and surrounding properties in 1921, which was the beginning of several land purchases that became his Horseshoe Ranch, used for settings of his movies. The Hart residence, now known as the Hart Mansion and Museum, was owned by Hart and his sister Mary Ellen Hart. The design was by architect Arthur Kelley, who also built the Playboy Mansion, Basham said. The construction began in 1925 and it cost more than $100,000 to build, nearly $1.5 million in today’s dollars, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Left: An incredible view of Santa Clarita can be seen from Mack Point at the top of of Fritz Road, one of miles of hiking trails at William S. Hart Regional Park. Above: A different kind of view is of the bison herd also at the park. PHOTOS BY DAN WATSON / THE SIGNAL

Hart lived in the house for 20 years until he died in 1946 at 81. In his will, his ranch was given to Los Angeles County, to be used for public enjoyment at no charge. “William S. Hart wanted the public to have access to his home,” said Laurene Weste, councilwoman and president of Friends of Hart Park. “People can come there free and bring their kids and grandkids.” The park has grown overtime, and today consists of 265 acres of land. The ranch house and mansion are open to the public on a daily basis, along with other attractions.

Park attractions

Since the county took over the ranch in 1946, it has become William S. Hart Regional Park for the public to enjoy for free, just as Hart wished in his will. On regular days of operation, the park has its animal barnyard, picnic areas, mansion and museum, ranch museum, american bison, group campgrounds and more, Reifman said. The park is located on Newhall Avenue. “I love the park; it is the epitome of the american family place to go,” Weste said. “Just an amazing resource of Santa Clarita left to the public by William S. Hart.” The SCV Senior Citizen Center is based at Hart Park, said Albert Ewing, the parks event coordinator. The SCV Heritage Society operates Heritage Junction, part of the park with many structures from history in the valley, such as the old Saugus Train Station, Edison House and Kingsbury House.

Basham and his wife recently redid the Edison house, he said. “It’s like your walking into 1930.” Quester groups open the houses in Heritage Junction for tours the first Sunday of every month from 1-4 p.m. Along with the buildings in Heritage Junction, up the hill is the Hart Museum and Mansion, open Wednesday through Sunday for tours from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. “You can take a museum tour of Mr. Hart’s house and see all the artifacts,” Reifman said. On the way up the hill, you may pass a herd of American Bison, donated by Walt Disney in 1962. “They were shooting over by Placerita Nature Center and when the filming was done, they herded all the bison through the streets here and they have been here ever since,” Reifman said. Those animals are for show and not interaction, but the park also has a barnyard of animals, some you can feed. It is not a petting zoo, but the barnyard includes animals such as alpacas, donkeys, horses, deer, boar, pot belly pigs, geese, chicken and more. The park also offers equestrian, pedestrian and bike trails that offer a grand 360-degree view of the entire valley, Ewing said. Hart wanted to give back to his community by opening his land to the public to enjoy. “It’s always been the place you can relax and feel the heart of the old community,” Weste said. The land also offers picnic areas, available to the community for rent and seven campgrounds for group

camping sites for scouts, nonprofits, churches and more. “He wanted to give back,” Reifman said. “He also loved the scouts.” The park is open sunrise to sunset everyday and the banyard is open 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily. Today, more than 73 years after his death, the park is still; up and running continuing to grow and attract visitors wanting to learn about the history of the land. “It’s nice to see the kids coming out and the families coming out,” Reifman said, “a family atmosphere. We love and want people to remember it.”

Friends of Hart Park

The park also has a gift shop and bookstore run by a nonprofit group Friends of Hart Park. “The friends of hart park is a non profit,” Basham said. “The gift store is a non-profit, meaning all the money that is raised goes back into the park. We don’t take salaries, were all volunteers.” The park has multiple volunteer opportunities and is always looking for volunteers, Ewing said. The Friends of Hart Park Trading Post Gift Store is open on weekends from 11 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., selling items for all ages, including authentic native american jewelry, collectable books and movies of Hart and more. The organization also has a bookstore, open for events and sometimes See HART PARK, next page

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N E W S F E AT U R E

HART PARK

Continued from previous page

on weekends, Basham said. “It’s all donated books.” Boxes and boxes of books line the books store all genres from western to lifestyle and mysteries to children’s books. “The books are all clean,” Basham said. “Some are collectible type books and some are relatively new editions.” For more information on group camping or to make a reservation call the park office at (661) 259-1750. If you are wanting to volunteer at the park, contact the park office at (661) 259-1750. 

Hart Park events throughout the year Along with the parks weekly operations, multiple events are help at the park every year. The upcoming events scheduled for 2019 include:

The Cowboy Festival

Friday, April 12, Saturday, April 13 and Sunday, April 14 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. throughout the entire park. This year, the Friends of Hart park will have a Johnny Cash tribute band, Saturday night and a country western dance Friday night in the hall, Weste said. For more information, go to www.cowboyfestival.org

Music in the Park No. 1

Left: William S. Hart Regional Park Superintendent II Eric Reifman and Cruella the Alpaca greet visitors on the other side of the fence. Above: A costume worn by William S. Hart from the 1918 movie, Shark Monroe (left) stands in the living room of the Hart Museum.

Summer Movies in the Park Series

Fridays at Dusk (approximately 8:15 p.m.) Movie No. 1 Saturday June 28 “Ralph Breaks the Internet” Movie No. 2 Saturday July 12 “Aquaman” Movie No. 3 Saturday July 26 “Spiderman-Into the Spider Verse” Movie No. 4 Saturday August 16 “Mary Poppins Returns” Movie No. 5 Saturday August 30 “Captain Marvel” Admission is free to these events.

Silents Under the Stars

Saturday August 10 at 6 p.m. Entertainment, catered reception with a Hart classic movie under the stars on the Hart Hall patio For more information: go to www.friendsofhartpark.org/

Saturday, May 11 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Theme: Cruise Control at Hart (All Comers Cruise-In) with invited car clubs and associations. Hosted in the picnic area. Admission is free to this event.

Annual Hart Train Show

Artisan Row Home Arts & Craft Show

Saturday Oct. 5 and Sunday Oct 6 from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. 25th annual pow wow, for more information go to www.friendsofhartpark. com/ Admission is free to this event.

Saturday May 18 and Sunday May 19 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. in Hart Hall. Admission is free to this event. Music in the Park No. 2 Saturday June 1 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the picnic area. Admission is free to this event.

Santa Clarita Quilt Guild Quilt Show

Saturday June 8 and Sunday June 9 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission is a $5 suggested donation. Music in the Park No. 3 Saturday, June 15 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Theme: Cruise Control at Hart (All Comers Cruise-In) with invited car clubs and associations. Hosted in the picnic area. Admission is free to this event.

Saxtravaganza-All Saxophone Chamber Ensemble Concert Sunday June 23 at 6 p.m. in Hart Hall. Admission is free to this event. Music in the Park No. 4 Saturday June 20 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the picnic area. Admission is free to this event.

Saturday Sept. 14 and Sunday Sept. 15 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. For more information go to www.hdmmrc.com/events.php. Admission is free to this event.

Native American POW WOW and Craft Fair

Bow Wows and Meows Pet Fair

Sunday Oct. 13 For more information go to www.bowwowsandmeows.org Admission is free to this event.

SCV Artists Association Arts Classic

Saturday Oct. 19 and Sunday Oct. 20 For more information go to www.santaclaritaartists.org

SCV Rose Society-26th Annual Wild West Rose Show

Saturday Nov. 2 For more information go to www.scvrs.homestead.com/roseshow.html Admission is free to this event.

8th Annual Hart Holiday Boutique

Saturday Nov. 23 and Sunday Nov. 24 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Cowboys and Carols

Saturday, Dec. 7 in Hart Hall Admission is free to this event.

M A R C H 3, 2019

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 7

N E W S F E AT U R E

Suspected killer’s death resolves one unsolved murder By Jim Holt Signal Senior Staff Writer

“C

old cases” can be the most difficult part of the job for a detective. All investigative leads, witnesses, evidence and information have been looked into exhaustively. After that happens, without new or expanded information, an unanticipated DNA match, an anonymous tip from the public or even a lucky “break” from a fresh look by different detectives, investigators often have to wait for years while the victims’ loved ones languish. However, not all of the Santa Clarita Valley’s “unsolved” cases have left the victim’s loved ones without any sense of closure. One family surviving the unsolved murder of a loved one recently learned of the suspected killer’s death. Bud Taylor, whose daughter LaWana Clary was bludgeoned to death in her Castaic home 12 years ago, found peace this past year knowing the prime suspect in her death is dead. Speaking from his home in the Midwest, Taylor said justice was meted out Oct. 25, 2017, when Clary’s husband, David Wayne Clary, died.

Prime suspect

“He was the one and only suspect,” Taylor said. “I hate to point the fingers, but I can’t think of any other suspect. I believe he’s guilty,” he said of his deceased former son-in-law. David Wayne Clary left Castaic for Oregon shortly after his wife’s body was found April 5, 2007. Taylor learned Clary had moved to Little Rock, Arkansas, about a month before Clary’s death after undergoing surgery. News of David Wayne Clary’s death came to the Taylor family’s attention after they had already “closed the book,” on the matter, Bud Taylor said. “I still had the thought every now and then that one day, maybe, they would make an arrest. But I wasn’t holding my breath,” he said. “Well, now, it’s been taken care of — you don’t get away the crime.”

Buried in SCV

LaWana Jayne Clary was buried on

Mark Taylor stands over the unmarked grave of his murdered sister LaWana Clary at Eternal Valley Memorial Park and Mortuary. SIGNAL FILE PHOTO

a stretch of grassy hillside at Eternal Valley Memorial Park and Mortuary. For years, there was no gravestone or plaque to mark the grave. The plot was owned by Clary’s widowed husband, David Wayne Clary. The Taylor family was unable to erect a plaque in LaWana Clary’s honor without his authorization. Since April 5, 2007, when the 50-year-old Clary’s body was found on a blood-soaked bed in her Castaic home, relations between the two families chilled. Efforts made by The Signal in 2012 to reach David Clary by phone at his new home in Portland, Oregon, proved unsuccessful. At the time, in 2012, among those wishing David Clary would return to the Santa Clarita Valley were homicide detectives, who still considered him their “sole person of interest” in the case.

Lie detector test

David Wayne Clary took a lie detector test to prove he was innocent. Clary also cooperated with detectives the night of the murder, talked to them at the local sheriff ’s station and provided a statement, homicide detectives confirmed. Two years after LaWana Clary’s body was found with her skull crushed by blunt force, Clary’s attorney Richard Moss told The Signal that David Clary that he did not kill his wife, adding at the time: “It’s almost a knee-jerk reaction that the

husband always did it.” Homicide detectives Rich Lopez and Sgt. Robert Martindale of the Los Angeles County Sheriff ’s Department, however, had problems with the lie-detector test taken by Clary six days after his wife’s murder.

The main problem?

Detectives were not present when the polygraph was administered and have no idea what questions were asked of Clary. “If we had done a polygraph test as the one they did, we would be laughed out of any court,” Lopez said in 2012. “Our polygraph tests are videotaped; theirs wasn’t even recorded with audio.” Detectives wanted Clary to take a polygraph test they administered, so they could eliminated him as a suspect. “I would like the husband to come down and take another polygraph test,” Lopez said Thursday. “It’s been five years. Come on. If you didn’t do it, sit down with our polygrapher.” Clary refused to take a lie-detector test administered by the Los Angeles County Sheriff ’s Department, Lopez told The Signal in 2010. As for Clary’s statement, Lopez said, “He gave an initial statement, lawyered up and has never talked to us again.”

The murder

David and LaWana Clary were married in the early ’90s. She graduated from Hart High

School in 1974, attended Cal State Northridge, where she learned to be a special education teacher, and landed a teaching job at Saugus High School, then one at Valencia High School. He was a longtime resident of Newhall, worked in computers and dabbled in writing science fiction. He wrote a book called “The Deathful Place.” They had a home in Castaic, where they lived with two dogs and raised a foster child — a girl born in 1989 whose drug-addicted mother died in a traffic accident on Christmas Day — who proved challenging, according to friends and coworkers of the murdered woman who were interviewed in 2012. LaWana Clary was described by coworkers and students as a loving teacher and a devoted friend. On April 5, 2007, David Clary left their home for work about 7 a.m., he told detectives. His wife was alive when he left, he said. About 9:30 a.m., Barbara Frieling phoned LaWana Clary on her cellphone. But instead of reaching her friend and coworker, she spoke to a man identifying himself as David Clary. About 5:15 p.m., David Clary, according to his statement, returned home and found his wife dead on their bed, lying on her right side, her skull fractured. Dr. Solomon L. Riley Jr., who conducted the autopsy April 9, 2007, listed blunt force injuries to the left side of her skull as the cause of death. In a preprinted section of his medical report that asks, “If other than natural causes, how did injury occur?” Riley wrote, “Battered by another.”

No weapon found

But no weapon was found at the house and no weapon recovered since, Lopez said in 2012. Detectives looked for an implement similar to a baseball bat, golf club or walking stick. The killer struck Clary on the upper left side of her head, leaving a laceration 1.75 inches long and almost a half-inch deep, according to See COLD CASE, page 40

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M A R C H 3, 2019

LOCALNEWS

Land slides, rain falls —

HOAs hire landscaping firms to prepare for storm By Caleb Lunetta Signal Staff Writer

ith the help of two pumps, 40,000 square feet of plastic sheeting and 250,000 pounds of gravel, officials said they are planning to work 24 hours a day through the upcoming rainy weekend in hopes of protecting property at the site of the American Beauty/ Trestle development landslide. On Feb. 27, employees of Landscape Development Inc., the private firm hired by the two homeowners associations that have shared ownership of the collapsing hillside, were blanketing it with spool after spool of tarp, and bag after bag of gravel. After a weekend storm earlier the month, residents of the hillside neighborhood on the 19700 block of Terri Drive watched as their property physically transformed and broke apart, and the first layer of tarp was laid down to reinforce the hillside.

The hill behind the 19700 block of Terri Drive in Canyon Country, now covered in plastic and sandbags, continues to collapse down into homes in the Trestles neighborhood below, moving as much as six feet in some areas. PHOTO BY CORY RUBIN / THE SIGNAL

And now, more than two weeks after families first noticed fissures appearing in their walls and patios, another series of storms is on the way. “What we first did was in preparation for the rain that’s coming,” said Amy Ambrose, division president for Landscape Development. “We added additional layers of plastic in order

to prevent as much moisture from getting into the soil as possible … And our emergency storm crews have begun their 24/7 monitoring.” However, according to Ambrose, the tarp-and-bag tactic is only designed to be a temporary solution to the expected weather conditions, and more permanent solutions would

need to be implemented eventually in order to the address the hillside’s long-term problem. “If enough water gets into the soil, it creates more movement, which is already happening. And we’re trying to avoid that,” Ambrose said. Right now “we can only try to slow (the slippage), but we can’t fully stop it with what we’re doing.” Ambrose said one of the primary reasons the geologists and engineers haven’t been able to stop the gradually occurring landslide is because a single mistake made due to misinformation could exacerbate the soil displacement. “The ultimate plan is to stop it,” said Ambrose. “But there could be something like five different factors going into this and without knowing the source (of the landslide) you could end up making it worse.”

The Plan

In the meantime, Landscape Development has laid down the initial See SLIDE, page 10

Residents affected by land slide preparing for months of hardships By Brennon Dixson Signal Staff Writer

ith a failing slope forcing the city to yellow-tag multiple homes, residents in the two affected neighborhoods are beginning to prepare for what they expect will be months of hardship. A Los Angeles County Fire Department truck pulled out of the gated Trestles community, and a white truck with the city’s logo followed behind shortly after. A Nationwide insurance employee who travels to work on large-scale disasters like the Paradise fires was also busy inspecting and speaking with at least one affected resident’s home. Landscape Development Inc. workers would arrive a few hours later to begin preparing for the rainfall that’s expected to hit the Santa Clarita Valley and the still-sliding slope in the coming days. The backyard fencing that first hung above workers’ heads now

towers even taller than it did just a few days ago, and the moving dirt hill is pushing into air conditioning units, which in turn are causing walls to concave and floors to shift — even in homes that aren’t directly below the moving earth. In fact, a myriad of new views have opened up to the homeowners above the tarped hill and below it as a result of their moving backyard fences. “I’m not sure how something that drastic could happen. The whole mountain is gone,” said Austin Calder, a resident who has lived in the Trestles community since the homes were first sold. He lives six houses away from the slope but is still seeing cracks in his home’s driveway, fencing and walls that stretch as long as 9 feet. He had no idea there was a landslide occurring a few houses down from him until he was approached by The Signal for an interview, he said, adding he was later approached by another homeowner who said everybody in the neighborhood is

complaining about similar problems on a Facebook page. “This whole time I assumed that little skip loader in front of the (yellow-tagged) house was a sneaky way to grade their backyard,” he said, joking that he wanted to go talk to the neighbor to figure out how to get around HOA rules. “I didn’t even know the whole slope was coming down until I came down here and saw that it’s all gone into the house.” As a man with 13 years of experience in the grading industry, Calder can spend a few minutes observing the sliding hill and imagine a multitude of outcomes. He’s not sure how the hill was graded, “but it would be to an engineer’s specifications and the geologist would be responsible for ensuring that got built to the compaction, the specs, the moisture content and everything that was required by the engineer to call it safe,” Calder said. “Whether that happened or not, I don’t know.” The city, two homeowners associations and other involved parties have

yet to confirm how long it’ll take to find a solution or what caused the slope to give, but in the meantime, residents are doing what they can to adjust to their new living arrangements. Twenty-three-year homeowner Kathleen Chrisman, whose home is one of three on Terri Drive that have been yellow-tagged by the city, returned early from a trip in Missouri, “because everybody was saying, ‘Kathy, you have to get home.’” Chrisman saw a picture Friday morning, “and went, ‘Oh, my Lord,’” she said, then proceeded to book a flight home as early as possible. “First thing Saturday morning — Voila,” Chrisman said, with a chuckle and pretending to open a curtain to the 10-foot deep sunken hole that stretches across her backyard and two others. “But, this is the new slip-n-slide of Canyon Country!” she added, trying to make light of what’s been an emotional experience for her and many other residents who are stuck in the See IMPACT, page 10

M A R C H 3, 2019

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 9

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10 · S U N D AYS I G N A L

M A R C H 3, 2019

LOCALNEWS

SLIDE

Continued from page 8

plastic layer, an additional layer and has a couple extra thousand square feet of tarp and couple extra thousand pounds of gravel waiting in reserve just in case, according to Ambrose. As for the company’s 24/7 emergency storm crews, when they’re not working with the reserve pile to patch up or fix holes in the protective tarp, they’ll be working on the drainage system or manning the “sumppumps” located at the top of the hill. “The rainwater can collect on top of the tarp, and like a cup that gets heavier when you pour a liquid into it,” the water pools on the plastic sheeting and could gain enough weight to tear a hole, said Ambrose. “The goal of the two pumps is that we don’t want to retain any water, and we want to pump it out right away.” The bags will work as a “paperweight” of sorts for the tarp, and although everyone calls them “sandbags” they’re actual filled with gravel, and there’s a reason, according to Ambrose. “The gravel filters water through, but filters sediment out,” said the division president. “When you try (erosion control) with sand in the

IMPACT

Continued from page 8

same muddled situation. She’s definitely had her moments of emotion, said Trish Guthrie, Chrisman‘s younger sister who’s been and will remain on-hand to assist her sibling in her time of need. “I’m stressed to the max. Blood pressure is through the roof. It’s just like what do you do?” Chrisman said. “What do you do?” The pair said they reached out to the city to see if there was any housing assistance, but they were told there was not. Chrisman hopes insurance will “work itself out in some way, because I have nowhere to go at the moment.” Other affected homeowners are feeling very similar, as they’re having to do laundry at neighbors’ homes, find hotels and deal with the neverending onslaught of tasks to accomplish, whether that be work, calling

On Tuesday, G.M. Management Inc., the company contracted with the American Beauty Classics I Owners Association to manage the maintenance and landscaping of the neighborhood at the top of the hill, released a statement Tuesday, saying they were addressing the situation from the first report and are taking it very seriously. “The association has engaged pro-

fessional consultants to determine the cause of the slope failure and the necessary measures which are necessary to ‘shore up’ the area while decisions are being made about permanent repairs,” the statement read. “In the interim, the association is providing regular updates to the four homes adjacent to the slope to provide information on the actions being taken by the association.” Property Management Professionals, the private firm similarly hired but for the Trestles development at the base of the hill, has also commissioned its own geotechnical report. However, as of Wednesday afternoon, residents in the PMP neighborhood report they have not heard from their association or received any updates. And, as the two homeowners associations announced they were each either hiring or working with their own geotechnical firm to compile a report on the source of the landslide, Santa Clarita City Hall officials said city staff would be on site every day monitoring the geologists and overlooking the safety of residents whose homes were in danger. “I was out there yesterday with staff from Public Works to see it for myself and get a better idea of the neighborhood affected,” City Communications Manager Carrie Lujan said on

Wednesday. However, city officials, as of Wednesday, were still saying that they and the city engineers will not be heading up their own study, nor will they take on the responsibility of funding or heading up the geological disaster relief effort. Saying that the hillside maintenance was the responsibility of the homeowners associations and developer, Lujan also stated that the city had not received requests for assistance from any of the residents or either HOA. “We have not had any requests for additional assistance in regards to the rain … (and) to my knowledge we have not had any requests for assistance from the families,” said Lujan. “Our staff would work with the consultants on site if they were to recommend additional homes to be tagged.” A call was placed to the city of Santa Clarita Engineering Services Department Wednesday, but department staff declined to comment and deferred all requests for comment to Lujan. A call was placed to the city of Santa Clarita Building and Safety department and Assistant City Engineer Shannon Pickett, as well, but department staff had not returned the call as of Wednesday. 

insurance or trying to find information about how to best proceed. Lorie Hance, who lives two houses down from the affected residencies in the American Beauty tract, said she’s not displaced, but she feels for the homeowners who are. Outside of word from other neighbors and a geologist who was on the scene Saturday, Hance said she hasn’t been updated about the situation from homeowners associations or other involved parties, which was a common theme among residents in the Trestles developments below the hill and the American Beauty homes above. “I’m not sure what she’s received yet, but really there hasn’t been much information,” Guthrie said, mentioning that there are people out there and the company is “monitoring” the movement of the houses. But nobody has come forth to confirm if any of the residents’ houses are indeed shifting. “We can see by our own vision. And we can see that it’s been a lot

more,” Guthrie said, with her older sister laughing in the background, pointing to cracks in her backyard cement and exterior wall as large as 2 inches wide and 7 inches deep. “One thing that we have been told is that there is movement,” Guthrie said. “They said they can hear the crackling and that it’s not as fast as it was but there’s still movement, and the biggest concern now is the rain.” Workers plan to counter the rain by using two pumps, 40,000 square feet of plastic sheeting and 250,000 pounds of gravel, but Calder said the rain could be one the reasons that led to this and could lead to further damage. Chrisman, who lives on the American Beauty tract up above, said there was some concern about sliding slopes when grading began for the newer homes. “We all (thought), ‘Wow, they’re building all of this stuff behind us. Is that going to be safe?’ because we did have a little barrier here before

that’s not there now, but I don’t know if that’s the cause or not,” Chrisman said. “So, yes there was concern about the construction and the grading and me being able to give somebody a cup of coffee when they were coming with these big (Caterpillar) machines right behind the wall a few years ago...but I don’t know. “I’m not an expert. I’m not a geologist or an engineer,” Chrisman said, ”but all the experts are out there doing their thing and they’ll figure it all out. I’m sure we’ll all find out soon. Let’s hope, right?” Chrisman and other residents said they’ve heard that it could be as much as six months to a year before the reports are finished “But, at this point, there’s been no concrete information,” Guthrie said. “Well, the concrete information is that the concrete is separated,” Chrisman added, with another outburst of laughter. “I need to make light of this disaster.” 

sandbags, you’re stopping the water from flowing out … and that’s when you get a thing we call a ‘blowout.’” Barring any incidents with the drainage system, pumps and/or tarps, Ambrose and her on-site storm emergency crews say they hope to achieve their two highest priorities this weekend: “Slow the movement on the slope as much as we can and minimize as much damage to structures as we can,” Ambrose said. As of Wednesday afternoon, two American Beauty homes and three Trestles homes, for a total of five houses, have received “yellow tags,” or voluntary evacuation notices, from the city of Santa Clarita. Ambrose said there are a few others, though, that are in danger and/or already seeing signs of damage.

Homeowners Associations and City Hall

M A R C H 3, 2019

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 11

LOCALNEWS

Residents believe mobile home park has become an eyesore By Tammy Murga Signal Staff Writer

he place looks like a ghost town — at least during the day. Old Christmas lights slouch on the walls, dirty tablecloths sway from the breeze coming in through the broken windows and stone angel decorations hang next to overturned toys. It’s the scene of what once appeared to be a community where families relaxed on their porches while children played just feet away. Soledad Trailer Lodge, located on Soledad Canyon Road and Solamint Road, is a park made up of more than 30 mobile homes built in the 1960s. Today, it’s an abandoned mobile home park in Canyon Country, notorious among its neighbors for becoming a potential haven for drugs, graffiti and other illegal activities. “Right now, it looks horrible,” said Santa Clarita resident Debbie Jones. “There’s graffiti, the windows are broken and the people ‘living there’

An abandoned mobile home sits with its windows broken. Residents have complained about the park calling it “an eyesore” to the community. PHOTO BY AUSTIN DAVE / THE SIGNAL

are not the ones living there. It’s an eyesore; it’s dirty.” Law enforcement regularly visits the site either to patrol or respond to crimes involving the mobile home park in some way. Among those cases is Saturday’s incident when Santa Clarita Valley Sheriff ’s Station deputies searched the park for a suspect

in connection to an armed robbery at Joe’s Liquor, which is located adjacent to the mobile home park. The manager at the liquor store said, “People just look next door to us and see the place and it’s just not a good look for business. It’s not a good outlook in the community.” Multiple residents have called the

city of Santa Clarita to complain about the poor condition and crimes surrounding the property, but city officials said there’s only so much that can be done. “As long as the mobile home park is a mobile home park under the state, (the state) has jurisdiction for almost everything,” said Erin Lay, a city housing program administrator. This means the city, including code enforcement officers, can’t go into the property to resolve some of the park’s current issues, such as graffiti, trash and broken windows, because all mobile home parks are generally under the control of the California Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD). The city filed a formal complaint against the property owner, Robbco Properties, with the state in October to address Soledad Trailer Lodge’s conditions, Lay said. HCD soon responded. “We have issued a notice of intent to suspend the permit to operate for See EYESORE, page 12

New lawsuit to expand on allegations at daycare By Jim Holt Signal Senior Staff Writer

lawyer representing a Santa Clarita Valley woman whose 3-year-old daughter was allegedly recorded on video with her buttocks exposed at a local daycare plans to file a new lawsuit expanding on the allegations contained in the first case filed against the daycare. Monday, on the steps of a Los Angeles courthouse, Pasadena attorney Brian Claypool handed passersby documents he said show a clear injustice done to his client. Claypool said he was retained by the child’s mother about six weeks ago, replacing previous lawyers who in November filed a civil complaint with the U.S. District Court, Central District of California, naming as the defendant, Cadence Education LLC, owners of the Sunshine Child Care & Learning Centers on Wiley Canyon Road, and demanding a jury trial. Reached by phone Wednesday,

Claypool said he plans to file a new case on behalf of the mother. “The child is undergoing intense therapy,” he said. Claypool said he plans to file a court motion to dismiss the federal lawsuit filed in November so he can legally file a fresh lawsuit at the state level. The civil action filed in November sought compensatory damages and punitive damages, alleging, among other things, that the Sunshine Child Care & Learning Centers on Wiley Canyon Road was negligent in its hiring of the teacher who allegedly took the video. According to Claypool, the same teacher — no longer employed at the daycare — videotaped the girl’s naked bottom as she napped at school and disseminated the video on the social media platform, Snapchat, with the caption, “She is ready for that threeday weekend.” The attorney said he has a former Sunshine employee — possibly two

— prepared to testify in court. “They are going to talk about the culture at the learning center that they have generated and perpetuated, which needs to be flushed out into the open,” he said. Part of the reason Claypool took to handing out flyers on the case Monday was to draw attention, he said, to an injustice, alleging investigators at the Los Angeles County Sheriff ’s De-

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partment or the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office have not done anything with the case. However, Sgt. Brian Hudson with the LASD Special Victims Bureau said Wednesday: “The case was submitted to the district attorney’s office. We are waiting for a decision on whether criminal charges will be filed.” See DAYCARE, page 12

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12 · S U N D AYS I G N A L

M A R C H 3, 2019

LOCALNEWS

Crashes through Agua Dulce yards prompt traffic enforcement By Caleb Lunetta Signal Staff Writer

crash early in the morning woke up Michelle Goertz and her dog, leaving them confused and searching the dark for answers. And an hour after the initial disruption and a few minutes scanning the early-morning landscape only to find nothing, Goertz, an Agua Dulce resident of 12 years, would find an answer to the mystery, but be the least surprised of all those slowly congregating at the scene. According to Goertz, the source of the noise and reason for the growing procession of neighbors and law enforcement officials in her yard was an adult male driver in his early 20s who had been driving southbound on the 9700 block of Soledad Canyon Road. “(And, at around 5:15 a.m.), the guy was heading to work, driving a Volks-wagen sedan, took the curve too fast, collided into the bushes, (went) through the wrought iron fence (and) hit a couple trees (in Goertz’s yard),” said Officer Josh Greengard of the California Highway Patrol Newhall Office. “Minor injuries were sustained by the male driver.” Goertz said it wasn’t until a neighbor, who had been the first person to spot the car, called her at 6 a.m. and told her that she could see vehicle wreckage in the family’s yard.

EYESORE

Continued from page 11

nonpayment of annual fees,” Alicia Murrillo, a communications analyst with HCD, said Wednesday. “If we do not receive a response to the notice of intent, we will suspend the permit to operate.” She added that at this point, the department doesn’t know what the park owner has planned for the property. According to a statement of information document submitted to the California Secretary of State, the business owner is listed as Ira Robb, who’s also listed as the owner of Valencia Travel Village and Vestal Watches. According to his bio as an advisory committee member of the nonprofit

“I didn’t really know what had happened until Highway Patrol pulled up and told me he’d been stuck in his car for over an hour (in 25-degree temperatures),” Goertz said. “He told the officers later that he thinks he blacked out before the accident happened, and didn’t know what had exactly transpired to wind up with him in my front yard,” she said. The report filed by the homeowners after the incident reads that the unnamed driver took out shrubs, a 20-foot section of fence and wrought iron gate, clipped one mimosa tree and completely took out another. “He was 2 inches off from hitting the power pole that supplies our entire canyon,” Goertz added. And although the homeowners said they found a medical marijuana dispensary container on the lawn after the car had been towed away and the scene was cleared, Goertz said CHP officers did not arrest the driver for driving recklessly or under the influence, but she wasn’t too upset about that aspect of the incident. “The investigating officer thought he may have fallen asleep, but that can’t be determined,” Greengard said. “It was 25 degrees outside, and he was trapped in that car for a long time. I think he served his penance,” said Goertz. She said she doesn’t want the near-disastrous nature of this inciFoundation for Animal Care and Education, Robb is the retired president of Enterprise Rent-A-Car of Southern California. On Wednesday, the owner could not be reached for comment regarding the condition of and plans for the mobile home park. City Communications Manager Carrie Lujan said “no one has submitted any plans for it,” in regard to someone possibly purchasing the abandoned location. At this point, the city is waiting to hear back from HCD on any updates regarding a response from the property owner. Lay said the city was notified by HCD that an inspection of Soledad Trailer Lodge has been scheduled in the coming weeks. 

dent to detract from the real issue, which she says is the prevalence of this kind of traffic collisions in her neighborhood. “This is a constant problem for us because Soledad Canyon Road and Sierra Highway are either used by commuters as an alternative route to Highway 14, or they think it’s the Indy 500 because the houses are few and far between,” said Goertz. “People perhaps don’t think it’s a residential neighborhood and don’t realize that children and families live in these homes.” Acton/Agua Dulce neighbors who live in the area have reportedly seen everything from fatalities and DUIs to speeders, rollovers and property damage because of the traffic. “My parents live on Sierra Highway, and their fence has been taken out multiple times,” Shilo Eddings-Dodson said. “People drive the canyon like it is a freeway, (and) it’s crazy,” said resident Gary Sickler. “We have had at least a dozen rollover accidents right in front of our house. If we did not have a little embankment in front, they would have been in my yard.”

More proactive

In recent months, the neighborhood has become more proactive in its approach to the problem, and residents have been working more closely with CHP and Palmdale Sher-

DAYCARE

Continued from page 11

A message left Wednesday seeking comment from the former Sunshine employee named in the November civil suit was not returned. Although phone messages left Wednesday with officials at Sunshine Learning Center were also not returned, officials issued a written statement in November when news of the alleged incident and ensuing lawsuit became public. Jennifer Parsons, regional director for Sunshine Learning Centers, said in the written statement their employees took the appropriate immediate action at the time of the incident, which she described as isolated.

iff ’s Station officials to file reports more quickly and regularly, and form Neighborhood Watch groups to communicate with one another. But Goertz says it’s not enough. “We’ve had meetings with sheriffs and Highway Patrol on Soledad and Sierra Highway to try and get more of a police presence out here,” she said. “But, I mean, they did patrol a week ago, even with their (speed traps) set up, they clocked someone with a top speed of 95 miles per hour in a 55 (mph) zone.” Neighbors have said that this is just another example of why their requests to law enforcement have been justified. “Ideally, we want more patrols to regulate speeders, and secondly, we’d like more general patrols in the Acton/Agua Dulce to prevent crime,” said Goertz. “We just want to make sure that dangerous driving and crime doesn’t start to sprout and seed out here.” Greengard did not announce if law enforcement agencies would be taking any additional measures to patrol the area following Saturday’s crash, but reassured people that officers take the instances seriously. “We can’t be everywhere at once,” Greengard said. “But we’ll (continue) to patrol the canyon roads every day.”  “The privacy of our students is of paramount importance to us and our employees,” Parsons wrote. “We swiftly addressed an isolated incident in which a former employee posted a photo of a student on social media: Upon learning of the post, our management team took immediate action to have the image removed. “The former employee was terminated for violating company policy, and the student’s parents were promptly notified. We are aware that a lawsuit has been filed,” Parsons wrote. “As it is ongoing, we’re currently unable to comment further on specifics. We continue to focus on ensuring all of our students receive an exceptional education in a safe and nurturing environment.” 

M A R C H 3, 2019

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 13

FROM THE CITY MANAGER

Creating community through a shared story By Ken Striplin City Manager

reating connections is an essential element of creating community — having the chance to share ideas, dive deeper into topics and open your mind to possibilities not previously considered. What better way to do this is there than through literature? I invite you to join other readers, from throughout the city, by taking part in this year’s One Story One City reading program. Every March, the Santa Clarita Public Library takes the opportunity to select one story to read, celebrate and discuss with the entire city. This year’s book selection is called “The Tea Girl of Hummingbird Lane” by No. 1 New York Times best-selling author Lisa See. “The Tea Girl of Hummingbird

Lane” gives a fascinating look at a rural village in a tea-growing region of China, and the people who reside there. Set against this backdrop, the story beautifully delves into the relationship of a family, and tells the powerful story of two women separated by circumstance, culture and distance. The One Story One City program begins in March, and is free and easy to join. First, you should read the story — simply pick up a copy at your local Santa Clarita Public Library branch. The book is also available as an e-book and audio book. Due to the nature of some of the topics covered in the book, this story is recommended for adults, and not suitable for readers under the age of 16. Once you read the book, visit your Santa Clarita Public Library branch to pick up a brochure, or visit the One Story One City website at SantaClaritaLibrary.com/OneStoryOneCity, to learn about upcoming events cele-

brating themes from the book. Don’t miss a unique opportunity to hear author Lisa See speak right here in Santa Clarita on March 2, at 10:30 a.m. at the Newhall Family Theatre. See will share her research process, highlights from the book and answer your questions. Additional events themed around the book include an ancient Chinese tea ceremony, a “Make and Take” tea cake class, a Pu’er tea presentation and tasting, a genealogy workshop, a documentary about international adoption, and a special musical performance of the Chinese zither/ guzheng instrument. While you are at the Santa Clarita Public Library, make sure you take the time to check out other offerings. Our library has what you need for your next adventure — whether that’s immersing yourself in fiction, conducting academic research or taking your toddler to socialize with others at one of the popular “Storytimes.”

Author Lisa See. PHOTO BY PATRICA WILLIAMS

I encourage you to take advantage of all the services, programs and opportunities available at your local Santa Clarita Public Library branch. You’ll be surprised at all they have to offer. To learn more, please visit SantaClaritaLibrary.com.  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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M A R C H 3, 2019

SPORTS

Wrestling with preconceived notions By Haley Sawyer Signal Sports Editor

riscilla Ramirez never envisioned herself wrestling. She always considered herself “super girly,” and left the sport to her sister. But, on Feb. 22, Ramirez concluded her prep wrestling career with Valencia High School at the CIF State Championships in at Rabobank Arena in Bakersfield. “I never would’ve thought I’d even be here,” Ramirez said. “That’s crazy. I just thought I was like, way too girly. I didn’t think that someone like me could do it — but it really changed me.” Ramirez’s older sister Roxy also wrestled for Valencia, and is a constant supporter of her wrestling. However, her draw to wrestling was intrinsic. She liked the competitiveness and the singularity of the sport. “I like how it’s one person against

Priscilla Ramirez another and only one can win; it’s never a tie,” Ramirez said. “I really liked how its always me depending on myself, I can’t blame anyone else. It’s me who doesn’t come to practice; it’s me who didn’t hit the move; it’s me who messed up.” Her drive to succeed in the sport reached a new level her sophomore year, after she failed to qualify for the state tournament. She missed the cut

by one match, falling in the blood round of the CIF-Southern Section Masters Meet. The following year, she was a CIF-Southern Section champion, came in sixth place at the CIF-SS Masters Meet and came in eight place at the CIF State Championships. This year, she had similar success and qualified for the state tournament. Even though she didn’t surpass last season’s finish, she was still happy with how far she had come as a wrestler. “Before, I used to go into matches like, so worried that I would lose; and now I’m more confident about

I JUST THOUGHT I WAS LIKE, WAY TOO GIRLY. I DIDN’T THINK THAT SOMEONE LIKE ME COULD DO IT — BUT IT REALLY CHANGED ME.” stuff and I feel like it’s kind of showed in how I did this year compared to last year,” she said. Competing in the 121-pound weight class, Ramirez pinned Julia Casillas of Escalon in the Round of 32 before losing by fall to Mt. Whitney’s Ashley Venegas in the Round of 16. She continued to the consolation bracket where she pinned Cheyenne Baltagi of Norte Vista and Mykhala Bagler of Elk Grove. Finally, she was eliminated in the next round after losing in an 8-3 decision to Birmingham’s Katie Gomez. Ramirez said developing her work

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ethic was a key part in getting her to the state level. “The drive for me to really like, be my best helps me go back to the gym every day and just make sure I’m putting in all the work that need to so I can really show how good I am.” Ramirez was one of three girls wrestlers representing Valencia at the state level, along with America Lopez (170) and Shani Tyson (131). Lopez was the most successful of the group, finishing in sixth place to conclude her sophomore campaign. Ramirez is considering wrestling in college at Wayland Baptist University in Plainview, Texas, or returning to

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Valencia to help coach Lopez and other potential girls wrestlers. “Even though I know everyone thinks they can’t do it just because they say they’re not strong enough, but that’s exactly how I was,” Ramirez said. “I didn’t think I’d be strong enough; I didn’t think I’d be tough enough — but it’s like, anyone can do it. There’s different weight classes for everyone and it really brings out character I think. Just showing that you’re not going to get angry and throw a fit when you lose or anything. I think it’s for everybody.” 

M A R C H 3, 2019

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 15

THINGSTODO

Spring fun fests from cherry blossums to Latin food By Michele E. Buttelman Signal Staff Writer

pring is around the corner, just weeks away and now is the time to mark your calendars for festival fun. There are Scottish games, a celebration of whales and, if you love cheese, there’s an entire weekend for you to get your fill.

The 48th annual Dana Point Festival of Whales March 3, 9 & 10 Free. Fee for whale watching excursions. Celebrating the annual migration of the majestic California Gray Whale the festival includes a street fair, art and craft shows and sales, classic car exhibits, paddling and sailing opportunities, boating extravaganza, sand sculpting, concerts on land and water, environmental activities, educational opportunities including lectures, interpretive crafts, kids’ activities, food and whale watching excursions on a variety of vessels or from Dana Point Headlands Conservation Park.

Events held in a variety of locations. Info https://festivalofwhales.com.

L.A. Festival of Colors March 9-10, 11 a.m. Whittier Narrows Recreation Area, 750 S. Santa Anita Ave., South El Monte Tickets: $6.50 (online), kids 12 and under free. L.A.’s Festival of Colors brings the traditional Indian custom of Holi when revelers douse each other in colorful plumes of technicolor yellow, cobalt, magenta and green powder as a way to welcome spring to the West coast. Bhangra (group Punjabi folk dancing), live mantra bands, DJ’s, yoga teachers, food, free hugs. Info www.festivalofcolorsla.com.

Orange County Cherry Blossom Festival March 15-17, Friday: 5-9 p.m., Saturday: 10 a.m. to 9 p.m., Sunday: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Huntington Central Park, 18000 Goldenwest St., Huntington Beach, 92648. Free. This annual spring celebration of

Above: Whale watching excursions are just some of the many events at the 48th anniversary of the Dana Point Festival of Whales. ©Cliff Wassmann/Ocean Institute. Right: Trying out the different foods is one of the best things about festivals. PHOTO KNOTTS BERRY FARM

The highlight of the Wistaria festival is the once-a-year viewing of the world’s largest blossoming plant, a Wistaria named one of the seven Horticultural Wonders of the World. PHOTO COURTESY WISTARIA FESTIVAL

Japanese and Japanese American culture features a variety of performers and activities. Taiko drumming, minyo, classical dance, gagaku music, origami, ikebana, cosplay contests, anime characters, electronic music and food. New this year is the Friday Sakura Night Market. Entertainment, arts and crafts, culture. Info https://occbfest.com

Sierra Madre Wistaria Festival March 17, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Foothill freeway (210) to Baldwin Avenue off-ramp. Go north one mile to Sierra Madre Boulevard for festivities, shuttle buses, information and parking. Free. The downtown festival includes live music, art & garden faire (with See FESTIVALS, page 36

16 · S U N D AYS I G N A L

M A R C H 3, 2019

R E A L E S TAT E

Safety first when selling your home By Ray the Realtor Signal Contributing Writer

hen selling your home, there are certain safety guidelines that should always be followed to keep yourself and others safe. Valuables Don’t forget to take your keys, credit cards, jewelry, and other valuables from your home or lock them away. Do not leave cash lying around. Do not ‘hide’ your valuables in the usual places, such as the top drawer of your bedroom dresser. Antique, rare, or expensive home décor items also should be put away to avoid accidental breakage, or worse, theft. Pre-pack your collections. Medications Remove prescription medications from medicine cabinets and bedside tables. It is easy while showing the home for someone to ask to use the bathroom, then in the privacy of the room rummage through the medicine cabinet. Weapons Firearms, knives (including those in a block in the kitchen) and other weapons should be removed from sight and locked away. Personal info Bills, invoices, credit card statements, mail, and anything with your Social Security Number or other personal identifying information should be removed from view. Family photos and anything labeled with names should also be put away.

Showings Do not let strangers into your home if they do not have an appointment. To discourage people from just showing up at your door, have your Realtor® install a sign rider such as: SHOWN BY Appointment-only All showings should be officially scheduled in advance through either your Realtor®, their office, or another Realtor who represents the buyer. Hazards Protect yourself from a liability standpoint by making sure the driveway and sidewalks are clear and free of debris and ice. If the entry walk or driveway presents trip hazards with offset sections, you may want to have those areas fixed prior to showings. Stairs present a hazard as well, so keep them clear of belongings and have a secure handrail if needed. Make sure pets are secured at all times. Posting any applicable warning signs is helpful. Do everything in your power to ensure a prospective buyer is not in danger. People can be incredibly inattentive and careless sometimes. Reduce the opportunity for injury wherever you can. Use caution If something doesn’t feel right, call your Realtor immediately. It’s always best to err on the side of caution. Safety first.  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 2/16/19 TO 2/22/19 AREA/St#

St Name

Sold Price

SqFt/Source

CANYON COUNTRY 18209 18164 27621 18917 29651 27136 26788 28308 19836 29017 27056 15746

Sierra #124 Sundowner WAY #1004 Nugget DR #1 Stillmore ST Abelia RD Marisa DR Madigan DR Bonnie View AVE Pandy CT Flowerpark DR Cherry Willow DR Ruthspring DR

$260,000 $297,000 $345,000 $450,000 $475,000 $495,000 $496,000 $509,000 $515,000 $540,000 $608,000 $845,000

795/A 848/A 1268/A 1144/A 1362/A 1502/A 1172/A 2080/A 1733/A 1871/A 2434/A 2816/A

$485,000

1887/A

$227,500 $265,000

806/A 864/S

CASTAIC & VAL VERDE 31229 San Martinez RD

NEWHALL 19236 Avenue Of The Oaks #A 19226 Avenue Of The Oaks #K

AREA/St#

26707 24421 20938 25078 26371

St Name

Sold Price

SqFt/Source

Oak Crossing RD #B Flaxwood LN #102 Judah LN Walnut ST Piazza Di Sarro

$275,275 $308,000 $370,000 $463,333 $600,000

864/A 943/A 1395/A 1386/A 2368/A

Mirabelle LN #476 Christopher LN Rhona PL Santa Catarina RD Caraway LN Huntley WAY Barbacoa DR Raintree LN

$386,300 $492,000 $545,000 $579,000 $599,000 $600,000 $615,000 $720,000

1404/A 2118/A 1549/O 1976/A 1752/A 2212/A 2072/A 2544/A

$370,000 $396,500 $690,000 $810,000

963/A 963/P 2031/A 3129/A

$280,000 $343,000 $415,000 $428,000 $470,000 $485,000 $492,000 $500,000 $505,000 $517,000 $535,000 $542,000 $562,990 $590,000 $599,000 $660,000 $720,000 $748,500 $975,000 $995,000

1041/A 790/A 1809/A 1809/A 1512/B 1462/A 1940/A 1920/ 2129/A 1128/A 982/A 1962/A 1671/A 2217/A 1836/A 1900/A 2870/A 2939/A 3595/A 3549/O

SAUGUS 28364 19953 19919 28470 27547 20642 22320 22844

STEVENSON RANCH 25214 25238 26242 26305

Steinbeck AVE #F Steinbeck AVE #F Reade PL Peacock PL

VALENCIA & WESTRIDGE 25735 24029 29319 29245 23938 24698 23812 24010 23819 25809 23512 23806 28075 23221 23052 23701 27439 23521 28254 26831

Hogan DR #E6 Arroyo Park DR #7 Dakota DR Dakota DR Calle Del Sol DR Sand Wedge LN Toscana DR Joshua DR Via Campana Turquesa DR Northfield CT Via Campana Daydream WAY Beachcomber LN Tupelo Ridge DR Skycrest CIR Whitefield PL Summerglen PL Blacksmith DR Pinehurst DR

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TIMERANGER

Cow Killers & Hippos on the RR Tracks Heavens to Betsy Wrage, how did we misplace two perfectly good months of 2019 so quickly? It’s March already. Fortunately, with the benefit of time travel, we can easily replace a few weeks. On this very trail ride, we’ll explore cowboys and hippopotami, cougars and cattle rustlers. There’s a local fist-fighting actor, great real estate deals and the manly art of punching your boss in the nose. What say all y’all? Shall we mosey into the Santa Clarita mystic and see for ourselves? WAY BACK WHEN & THEN SOME

• Rewrite the history books! While Francisco Lopez was credited with finding that first big nugget in Placerita Canyon in 1842, a Frenchman might have beaten Francisco to the creek. In the French book, “Travels on the Pacific Coast,” author Augustine Ferrier writes of one Charles Baric. Ferrier claims that Baric’s gold strike in Placerita Canyon predates Lopez’ by eight years. The book is a rare one, published in Paris in 1842. It describes Baric pulling nuggets out of the creek weighing two and three ounces. Speculation is still up in the air as to the location of that very first discovery. Some scholars put gold being found in the SCV in the 1820s in San Francisquito Canyon and 1790s in Castaic. • Before there was Blanche Newhall’s first county library opened in Woodard’s ice cream parlor March 1, 1916. Christine Woodard was this valley’s first official librarian and she would be replaced by Signal owner and publisher, Blanche Brown. MARCH 3, 1919

• WHOOPS! The California Historical Commission ruled that Ventura County had unfairly claimed 550 square miles of Los Angeles County. That discrepancy went unnoticed for 50 years. • Stanley Steamer 1, Alvara 0 Honby’s Antonia Alvara got the worst of a head-on collision. Tony was driving his horse-drawn milk wagon. Elmer Vance was driving a Stanley Steamer. • A swashbuckling name There is absolutely no historical significance to this except the fellow involved has

1930s, it was one of Southern California’s big tourist attractions, holding acres of cacti for commercial sale. MARCH 3, 1949

• Actor road rage Actor Preston Foster used to keep a ranch up Bouquet Canyon. He got into a fistfight with one Ed McCandish, whom he accused of running him off the road. McCandish denied it and a judge settled that Foster would pay the Bouquet Canyon man $1,000.

• Talk about irony! Charlie Fisher, a cowboy working the Baker Ranch (where the Saugus Speedway is today) was found dead in his bunk. He had keeled over forward while playing a game of solitaire.

• Does it pay to advertise in The Signal Big Bill Bonelli Sr. put up a $500 reward for the arrest of some cattle rustlers who butchered an 800-pound cow on his Bouquet Canyon ranch. The bad guys knew what they were doing. They shot the cow with a high-powered rifle, then expertly dressed and butchered it in the dark, leaving just the stuff of which bologna and hot dogs are made. The value of the cow was just $150. Add to the $500 reward, Bonelli paid overtime to deputize some of his cowhands to stay up all night and ride the range, just in case the rustlers came back. Add to that, a half-page ad Bonelli placed in The Signal for information leading to the arrest of the perps.

• Bill sure loved the SCV Silent screen superstar William S. Hart became rich as one of the most famous movie stars of his day. But here, in Newhall, Hart showed a series of seven of his pix to anybody in the SCV who wanted to come — for free.

MARCH 3, 1959

a most excellent name. On this date, Maximo Apodaca bought a new Ford from Jesse Doty. • “Hun! I’m home!!” Harry Austin returned to his job at Hammond Lumber after an 18-month absence. Harry was “fighting the Hun” in Europe during World War I. Of course, it wasn’t called that then. The Signal printed a few casualty figures. The Russian Army lost 9,000,000 men and the Austrians 4,000,000. MARCH 3, 1929

MARCH 3, 1939

• I’ll write you a check right jolly now A 6-acre ranch in Placerita Canyon, complete with two homes, barn, tractor, water and electricity sold for just $3,750. • Beau cowpokes Local cowboys Chick Hannan, Blondie Bruzell, Shay Carrington and Foxy Callahan climbed into their trucks and headed for Arizona. The boys got themselves acting jobs in some Gary Cooper film called, “Beau Geste.” • Cactus SClariticus The road work improving and widening Sierra Highway was not without aesthetic cost. You can still see the entrance to Live Oak Manor off Sierra Highway. In the

• Nice income Placerita Canyon was giving up black gold by the barrel-full. A new well on the Yant property brought in a 1,200-barrel-aday strike. The Placerita oil strike was so huge, it disrupted world oil prices. • I still remember his laugh Noted country/western performer Cliffie Stone celebrated his birthday. His family gave him a cattle scale that weighed pretty much anything up to 3,000 pounds. Nice subtle little diet hint. • Water, water, everywhere. But not here. Once again, the SCV would be smack dab in the middle of a giant water project, without getting any of the precious clear staff of life. The state announced on this date that they would be building a 638-mile aqueduct system, bringing Northern California water to Los Angeles. The aqueduct would run through the SCV, including through a five-mile tunnel. • Well it looked like a fire Fire-

fighters raced to Placerita to put out a blaze they spotted half-way across the valley. They had a pretty good chuckle. When they got there, it was just a floodlight shining through a flowering peach tree. • The Stamp Killer The old M&N Market on San Fernando Road (today, Main Street) closed shop after 15 years. The culprit? Stamps. Not food stamps. Not post office stamps. But S&H Green Stamps. Back then, folks would buy their goods, gas and groceries at certain places that offered S&H Green Stamps. For every dime purchase, you got a stamp. You put the stamps in books, then redeemed them at outlets for merchandise. The S&H folks pulled the plug on M&N, giving their SCV contract to a new market in town — CC (Country Cousins). One sentence — 11 abbreviations. MARCH 3, 1969

• Come join the lot of us and yes! The hippopotamus! The tales of the epic rains continued. A frantic engineer running his freight train through Soledad Canyon thought he was seeing things and boy, was he. The dispatcher in Mojave thought he was getting his leg pulled when the train crew frantically called ahead to say they would be delayed. Why? Two hippopotamuses on the tracks. It was true. The beasts had wandered through a fallen fence in their compound at Africa USA and were just drying out on the tracks. Look at that. Seems like we just started and we’ve covered a century and then some. We’re back, I almost hate to say. Thanks for the good company, saddlepals. See you next week with another exciting Time Ranger adventure. Until then — Ser bueno con todos y vayan con Dios! (Be good to all 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 …

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Opinion

MA R C H 3, 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.

OURVIEW

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

Who Will Help Those Ousted by the Landslide?

Re-Imaging Our Nation's Lost Culture of Honor

By The Signal Editorial Board

By David Hegg

t least five homes in the American Beauty and Trestles housing tracts are suffering death by a thousand cuts, as the hillside separating them gradually becomes a muddy slope. The landslide first became visible a couple of weeks ago, in the midst of an unusually rain-filled rainy season. Several residents in American Beauty on Terri Drive noticed some cracks and slippage in their back yards. And those cracks and slippage got worse, to the point where fences and block walls collapsed, and mud flows began jamming into the Trestles homes below. As of this writing, five homes have been yellow tagged by the city, which means voluntary evacuation and/or limited occupancy. Further, the entire neighborhood — some 200 homes — will inevitably suffer tremendous losses in property value, not only due to word of mouth about the slide but also due to the potential that it will be a required disclosure whenever a home is sold. Foundations are cracking, trees have toppled, walls are stressed. With more rain on the way in the coming week, it could get worse — and the consensus is, it will be months or more before the residents’ homes are repaired or maybe even, in some cases, replaced. Through all of the trauma, the question on most people’s minds has been, “Whose fault is this?” Was there an error made in the soils and geology studies, or the grading designs, in either the American Beauty project (approved by the county in the ’80s) or the Trestles development (approved by the city in 2005)? Is it just an unavoidable, unforeseen act of Mother Nature? Those are good questions and the two homeowners associations have each hired experts to try to get to the bottom of it. They’ve also jointly hired

Landscape Development Inc. to step in and provide tarps, sandbags and water pumps in an attempt to mitigate the damage. So for now, the answer to the question, “Who’s to blame?” will remain unanswered, until more detailed, expert information is available. It may not be possible to draw such a conclusion, or it may be a situation of shared responsibility. But there’s another question that bears asking. And that is, “Who’s helping these residents deal with this crisis that is forcing them out of their homes?” Crickets. The answer to that, evidently, is no one. Ask the residents what government assistance they’ve received and the answer over the past week has been, consistently, none. We’re calling on our various government entities to step up to the plate. As the landslide has evolved, the upshot has been that the residents are expected to deal with it through their insurance companies. That’s all well and good, and of course they should be doing that. But it also means the response from the government entities that are supposed to serve those residents has been something along the lines of, “You’re on your own. Hope you have good insurance coverage.” Locally, our own city of Santa Clarita has been curiously inattentive toward the residents’ plight as the slide forces them out of their homes. Yes, the city has dispatched engineers and inspectors to monitor the situation and make sure everyone on the scene is safe. That is of course an important function of See OUR VIEW, page 20

ecently, I finished a great book recounting the exploits of Dog Company, the group of Army Rangers that led the assault up the cliffs on D-Day and accomplished the invasion’s toughest mission. Their story is one of grit, strength and great sacrifice, and it reminded me that America once had a culture of honor. It is devastating to realize, as we read and listen to today’s news, how far we have fallen. No longer do we prize those who shoulder the burdens of life and just go on resolutely running the race set before them. No longer do we count it as honorable to persevere through the slights and disappointments of life with a tough-skin attitude. No longer do we teach our children the reality that others will not always appreciate their point of view, and that insults, criticism and disagreement are part and parcel of living in this chaotic world, and they had better learn how to let things just bounce off them. Simply put, we’ve stopped believing it is better to be controlled by who we are and what we believe, than to be

forever responding with outrage to every little grievance that hits us. We’ve given up a culture of honor to become a society of victims. While we used to be a people that soldiered on through the slings and arrows of outrageous fortune, we now applaud those who cry out as victims against any and every thing that hurts, disappoints, or offends them. We’ve become so soft, so sensitive, so emotionally sunburned that the cries and whining of the offended have become our battle song. Gone are the days when we knew we were never promised a rose garden, and understood the necessity of being tough enough to persevere through the inevitable challenges life brings. But not today. Today, the most pronounced right many hold and fight for is the right to never, ever, be offended, or in any way slighted, hurt, or ignored. I think our dreadful slide into this silly narcissistic shallowness of character began years ago when we insisted See HEGG, page 19

READERLETTERS

Remember the Threats With all the emotional triggers appearing in the press for the thousands of “immigrants” heading for our border, let’s not overlook the DDT threats: Drugs, Disease and Terrorists. 1. DRUGS: U.S. Border Patrol reported that in three days, Jan. 1618, they confiscated 1,352 pounds of marijuana and 705 pounds of cocaine. 2. DISEASE: Just since Dec. 22,

2018, Border Patrol transported 2,224 subjects to local hospitals. On Jan. 15, Border Patrol arrested 247 migrants and found 50 needed immediate hospital attention. Many migrants are found to have tuberculosis, parasites or the flu. Last month an outbreak of Legionnaires Disease was found in detainees at Antelope Wells, New Mexico. A border state doctor warns that migrants are bringing infectious disSee LETTERS, page 19

MA R C H 3, 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

2nd Place Isn’t 1st Loser, & Other Cheer Lessons By Tim Whyte Signal Editor

y daughter has a little bit of Ricky Bobby in her: She thinks second place is the first loser. Yes. Both of our kids — the 23-year-old hockey player and the 17-year-old cheerleader — got the “compete” gene. So this year, as Brooke and her varsity comp cheer teammates from Saugus High School went through a series of competitions leading up to a pair of season-ending national contests, she wasn’t much interested in second place. She had a national championship on her mind. A lofty goal. And when Saugus brought home the runner-up trophy from the first-ever CIF Southern California cheer championships, I had to do some lawyering to convince her just how significant that second-place finish was: There were more than 80 schools competing in the very first CIF championships, spread across 11 divisions based on the degree of difficulty and complexity of their routines. Saugus competed in the top division, which amounts to a declaration of readiness to take on the best, and to strive to be the best, tackling the most difficult skills. The Centurions finished second to Mater Dei, a team they had faced before during the comp cheer season. It bears noting, whenever Saugus and Mater Dei faced each other they finished 1-2, swapping first and second from one competition to the next. Those two teams were the class of the Southern California field all season long. I think it sunk in for Brooke that the CIF runner-up trophy was actually significant when the team started getting messages of congratulations — including a signed note for each girl

from county Supervisor Kathryn Barger. It was a big deal — thanks to the many hours of hard work, practice after practice, and thanks to excellent coaching. Through it all the kids gained all of the benefits of experiencing a team sport, the ups and downs of competition, and the satisfaction of working hard toward something and delivering your best. I hope the Saugus High School administration recognizes the value of the comp cheer program and nurtures it as cheer continues its growth as an official CIF sport in the years ahead. And if you don’t think comp cheer is a sport, look up the videos and see the athleticism and precision of these teams as they tumble, stunt and fly. It’s something else. Fast forward to the end of the season: Competitive cheerleading is kind of like car racing. There are a couple of different sanctioning bodies in the U.S. with their own rules and championships. Think NASCAR and IndyCar. So, in early February, the Saugus squad ventured to Florida for the United Cheerleading Association national championship at Walt Disney World. They did well, making it to the semifinals, but a couple of bobbles and wobbles on their stunts kept the Centurions out of the finals. It’s probably just as well, because if they had made the finals, they would have had to perform their routine to be recorded on video between 11 p.m. and midnight on the Saturday night of the competition. There’s a stupid CIF rule — Yes I said it. It’s stupid. — that prohibits CIF teams from competing on Sundays. No waivers or exceptions. Even if you’re in Florida. Competing See WHYTE, page 20

LETTERS

Continued from page 18

eases to the U.S., including drug-resistant strands of tuberculosis, dengue and chikungunya. Venezuelans fleeing their country are reported to be spreading malaria, yellow fever and diphtheria. 3.TERRORISTS: Special Interest Aliens (SIA) are known to be joining migrant caravans. Panamanian officials report “tens of thousands” of SIAs have entered Panama since 2014 and were heading north. In Laredo, Texas, Border Patrol agents report a 300 percent increase in illegal immigrants from Bangladesh, well known as a recruiting ground for ISIS. Colombian officials report hundreds from countries like Syria, Pakistan, Afghanistan, Somalia, In-

HEGG

Continued from page 18

that self-esteem precedes accomplishment. I remember, when my children were in elementary school, how every child got an award and was told they were outstanding. Generation after generation grew up believing they were the center of a universe that was now responsible to make sure they never had to encounter any pain, or in any way be disadvantaged or offended. And now we are reaping the soul-weakening results of that ill-conceived philosophy. Are there people in our world who truly are victims, who actually need to be helped? Of course, and the burgeoning field of pseudo-victims is a huge threat to them. The societal power that once was delegated to those true victims who persevered through their trials with grace and honor is now being co-opted by those who manufacture offenses and masquerade as the wrongly wounded. At the bottom of our surging society of victimhood is an ethical breach. Those who truly suffer should be helped toward restoration. But, sadly,

dia and Eritrea have been detained while headed for the United States. Guatemala’s president announced Oct. 11 that nearly 100 ISIS terrorists have been apprehended there. We need to stop the hysteria of calling border barriers “immoral” and “inhuman.” These DDT threats are embedded in migrant caravans. Border control can best be enhanced by barriers AND more immigration judges, rapid vetting and application of high-tech surveillance. There are many deserving migrants, but the DDT threats must not be minimized or overlooked. Albert Bigelow, 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.

now victimhood has become the stuff of reparation. To be offended and claim suffering today can be the means to money, power and status, regardless of how sincere the claim may be. As I read Dog Company by Patrick D. O’Donnell, I felt a sense of pride that America had produced such a fine group of courageous, humble men. I also had to fight down the dread that we’re no longer doing so. But all is not lost ... yet. My hope is that this era of pseudo-victimhood will be short-lived. I continue to believe rank-and-file Americans understand that one key to a healthy society is the ability of individuals to flush the small stuff, bear the daily onslaught of circumstance courageously, and above all, replace the selfish desire to gain from others’ mistakes with a passionate desire to fix our own. Call me idealistic if you will, but history is on my side. Over time, strong character, honesty, courage and selflessness almost always wins out. Let’s hope the trend continues. David Hegg is senior pastor of Grace Baptist Church and a Santa Clarita resident.“Ethically Speaking” appears Sundays. 

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Opinion

WHYTE

Continued from page 19

for a national championship. The finals were going to be on a Sunday. If Saugus had made it, they would have been prohibited from performing on Sunday with the other finalists. So, they would’ve needed to perform at about 11 p.m., for the third time in one day, without proper rest and warmup, and their performance would have been judged on a video screen rather than in person. Damn near dangerous because of a stupid rule, not to mention a competitive disadvantage. Anyway. Lessons learned and character built, the Saugus squad turned their eyes toward the United Spirit Association national championships, held two weeks later at the Anaheim Convention Center across the street from Disneyland. Disney. They’ve figured out there’s money in the whole cheerleading thing. Thousands of cheerleaders, coaches, friends and parents converged upon the Anaheim Convention Center arena for the USA Nationals, where Saugus was once again taking on the best, competing in the advanced category for “large” squads with up to 20 cheerleaders each. (Mater Dei was in the “medium advanced” category, for squads up to 16.) The Saugus girls nailed their first routine on Friday, easily making the cut for the finals on Saturday. And then, on Saturday, they nailed that routine, too. As a cheer dad, I of course paid special attention to watch Brooke, and made note that she absolutely stuck every one of her tumbling runs in the routine. The kid’s got skills. Her practice and dedication paid off in the form of a very confident, accomplished performance. The whole team delivered the same. But it was in the judges’ hands now. Cheer is a judged sport, like figure skating, gymnastics and some of the “X Games” sports. So, we waited. There was a three-hour gap between the girls’ performance and the awards program where they announce the results. Three hours of waiting and wondering. When it came time for the awards in our category, they brought out the top four large varsity advanced teams and lined them up on the stage. They announced fourth place, and presented them with their trophy. Then third.

OUR VIEW

Continued from page 18

the local government and they’re doing it. No gripes there. But beyond that? Emergency housing? Help with moving or storing belongings? Any other forms of assistance? None that we are

Photo: Kelly Pierson That moment when they found out: The Saugus High School varsity comp squad processes the fact that they have just won the USA Spirit Nationals championship.

And when they announced second place, and Saugus’ name hadn’t been called yet, it sunk in: They were national champs. One of the parents was at stage level and caught a series of photos, showing the moment when the realization hit the girls that they had won. That moment, frozen in time, was the most exciting moment of our girl Brooke’s life, so far. Someday I hope she finds out how much more exciting it is, even, when you get to see your kid accomplish something they care so much about. I knew how much Brooke wanted this, and how hard she’s worked, dating back to when she was a 6-yearold taking gymnastics classes. Hour upon hour of flipping and tumbling and flying through the air, fine tuning the skills to the point where they were almost automatic, then in high school learning the teamwork of cheer stunting and choreography. Stuff like this doesn’t just “happen.” When we were finally able to catch up with the girls during their victory celebration in the concourse of the arena, something I didn’t expect happened to me: When I saw Brooke and got to her through the thick crowd, I couldn’t talk. I gave her a big hug without saying a word, not

aware of. This, from a city that generally does a great job of serving its residents, even as it branches out into some non-traditional city functions. Remember, it may not be a largescale disaster — but for those residents directly affected, this IS a disaster. Further, as far as we can tell, the residents of American Beauty and Trestles haven’t received any assistance from

giving a damn if it made her uncomfortable because I was so proud and so happy for her — and because if I’d tried to speak I would have been a bumbling, blubbering mess. Not good for my macho image. Thousands of pictures were taken. The girls and their coaches with the trophy and the banner in front of the USA backdrop. The girls with the trophy and the banner in front of the fountain outside the Anaheim Hilton. They toted that trophy and banner all over the place, grinning at every stop. Individual poses. Group shots. Seniors. Stanley Cup celebrations have paled in comparison. For Brooke and her fellow seniors who have cheered together for four years, it was an Elway moment. They won the final competition of their high school years, and got to “go out on top.” I’ve always emphasized to my kids that sports aren’t just about winning. They’re about doing your best, forming bonds with teammates, learning life lessons, building character and, most of all, having fun. But damn. Winning is awful nice, too. Especially when it’s your kid doing the winning. Tim Whyte is editor of The Signal. His column appears Sundays. On Twitter: @TimWhyte. 

other levels of government, including Los Angeles County and their elected state and federal representatives. What resources could be brought to bear? Has anyone inquired or tried? Yes, these residents are relatively small in numbers. And they’re not part of the underprivileged and underserved groups that California government agencies typically fall all over them-

selves to assist, like illegal immigrants and homeless drug addicts. They’re just taxpaying, law-abiding homeowners who are left potentially homeless, and scrambling while their life investment is being gradually, tortuously, swallowed up in the mud of a slowly slipping landslide. These people deserve some help. Who will provide it? 

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= 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 and Sundays, 9:30 a.m. to noon. Each weekend, the Gibbon Center is open to the public and a tour is given at roughly 10:00am, no reservations are required. $15 Adults, $12 Teens & Students, $10 Seniors, $5 Children 6-12, Children under 5 are free. 19100 Esguerra Road, Santa Clarita. Info: gibboncenter.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 Dr, Santa Clarita. Info: facebook.com/ foodtrucksaturday/ Sundays, 7 a.m.-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 Sunday, 7:30-9:30 a.m. Come out and try one of the fastest growing sports in Santa Clarita. We invite the community to come out to Castaic’s lower lake to give dragon boating a try. All equipment and parking will be provided free. All ages are welcome from 9 years old and up. Castaic Lake Recreation, 32132 Castaic Lake Dr., Castaic, California. For more information please call 213-447-5707 or visit teamdragoneyes.my-free.website/ Sundays, 10 a.m. to 2 p.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/ 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

EVENTS BY DATE Saturday, March 9, 9 a.m. Come out to Sanctuary Animal Assisted Therapy for our monthly volunteer day. Our focus will be planting and painting and we hope to see you all there! The lambs and their mom should be out of quarantine so you can all meet them and the rest of the animals! Vegan breakfast and lunch provided as always. 27662 Rolling Hills Road, Canyon Country. Info: sanctuaryaat.org Saturday, March 9, 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. and 1:30-3:30 p.m. Learn the art and sport of mounted archery at Gilchrist Farm! Never ridden a horse or shot an arrow? No problem, we’ll start you at the beginning. Already a great mounted archer? Come on out to sharpen your skills. Instruction available

for first timers through advanced/competitive riders. Ride our horses or bring your own for some fine tuning, training or just plain fun! $45 for first class, $40 per additional class. Gilchrist Farms, 30116 Bouquet Canyon Rd., Santa Clarita. Info: gilchristfarm.com Saturday, March 9, 10:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. The Santa Clarita Valley Historical Society will commemorate the 91st anniversary of the second worst disaster in California history with its annual St. Francis Dam Disaster Lecture and bus tour to the dam site in San Francisquito Canyon. Dianne Erskine-Hellrigel and Dr. Alan Pollack will host a presentation and a Q&A session before the bus tour. Please wear long pants, long sleeves and tennis shoes/hiking boots. Water and a snack will be provided. Heritage Junction, 24101 Newhall Ave, Newhall. Info: scvhs.org/wp Saturday, March 9, noon to 3 p.m. Come to Paint Your Pet Day at Painting with a Twist. Send us a picture of your furry, feathered, finned, scaley or shelled friend and we will sketch a canvas of them for you to paint. Register early as these classes fill quickly and we need at least a week to get the photos and sketch them on canvas. $55. Painting with a Twist, 19115 Golden Valley Rd., Santa Clarita. Info: paintingwithatwist.com/studio/santa-clarita/

Saturday, March 9, 1-4 p.m. Come meet Straightening Rein’s team of professionals specializing in equine-assisted therapies, our therapy horses and special celebrity guest USA Track & Field Medalist, Long Jumper Norris Frederick at our SRD Hope Through Horses Open Barn Celebration on March 9 from 1-4 p.m. $10, children under 10 are free. SRD Straightening Reins,13668 Davenport Rd, Santa Clarita. Info: srdstraighteningreins.org Sunday, March 10, 9 p.m. A hit offBroadway and internationally, this inspiring musical parody shows the funny sides of the “change” that all women experience in midlife. Four ladies with seemingly nothing in common but a black lace bra meet by chance at a lingerie sale in a department store. They poke hilarious fun at their woeful hot flashes, forgetfulness, mood swings, wrinkles, night sweats and chocolate binges. With classic tunes from the 1960s, ‘70s and ‘80s pushing the action along, these diverse women create a sisterhood as they realize that menopause is truly a shared experience that doesn’t have to be suffered in silence. $25. The Canyon, 24201 Valencia Blvd., #1351, Santa Clarita. Info: /wheremusicmeetsthesoul.com/ canyon-santa-clarita/events/

! N! ! N I W WI WIN CONGRATULATIONS to MARILYN CHRISTIAN of VALENCIA — the winner of $100 for correctly identifying the artwork as being from Consumers Furniture advertisement on page XX of our Feb. 17 issue.

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22 · S U N D AYS I G N A L

M A R C H 3, 2019

HOMEIMPROVEMENT

Checking plans; adding tile to a fireplace By Robert Lamoureux Signal Contributing Writer

Contractors and bids Hi Robert, I’m an avid reader of your article though I don’t live in the area. My daughter does live in town and when I visit on the weekends I read your article, otherwise she saves them for me to catch up on. I’ve certainly learned a lot over time, and enjoy the information that you share. My husband and I are doing something that we’ve never done before — we’re adding to our home, including a second level. We started with an architect who did the drawings, and took them to a contractor that we liked and who had a good reputation, and got our price. We then submitted them to the city who made a whole bunch of changes. Now the contractor tells us that the price will change because plan check made corrections. Is the contractor not bound to his original bid to do the work even though the city made some corrections? He looked at the plans and should know about corrections, right? We want to be fair, but don’t want to be taken advantage of, either. What is your opinion? —Linda C. Linda, I have several opinions on this. If there are many corrections, perhaps the architect may not be wellversed and the problem may lie in the architect who you chose. This is why

Make sure any contractor you hire has performed all the work to a satisfactory level before payment is made. COURTESY PHOTO

the city is there, to check on those planning the project and making sure that all plans are following city guidelines and local codes. The contractor is not responsible for omissions of the architect, although I do wonder why he bid the work prior to you getting them through plan check so he could accurately bid on an approved plan — perhaps you were just asking for a preliminary number to work with. In our company, we will typically bid on an approved plan, so that we are not putting folks through what you’re going through now. Legally your contractor is not bound since he didn’t receive monies, and if he is reputable and recommended, you may want to continue with him. Please be sure before anything else though, that you check the status of his license, and ask him to have his insurance documents sent to you directly from his agent, making sure that he is fully covered for general liability and worker’s compensation. You need to be sure that you are working with someone who is fully

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Adding tile to a fireplace Robert, I live in town and would like to put tile on my fireplace which currently has drywall and texture. Do I need to put any type of board down first or can I install this right onto the drywall? A photo is included for your review, and the tile is textured but flat. I’m pretty handy and know I can do this but just want to make sure that I’m not missing an important step in the process. —John N.

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insured, in case of any incidents. This step is the most important step in the process, I can guarantee it. Be sure to not pay the final amount at the end, until you are sure that you have final inspection signed off with the city, and all work has been performed to your liking, including clean up. You aren’t obligated to pay until all parts of the agreement have been satisfied. Good luck to you, —Robert

John, This is a great project for the do-ityourselfer. No need to take off anything or add any additional board or drywall, you’ll just need to rough up the current surface, so that the thinset will have something to grab on to. Take a utility knife and cut grooves (horizontally) into the current drywall, and this will be what the thin set can adhere to. The process is simple after that; rent your tile saw if necessary and be sure to wear safety glasses, and use caution with your hands. Begin with a dry fit to start, beginning in the center and working your way out, so you know where your cuts will need to be. Once this is figured out then begin by setting the tiles with the thinset. After it’s dried for 24 hours you can then add any grout. Be sure to use a level throughout the install as this will give you the most accurate layout along with measuring your cuts. This is a pretty straight forward project and is a great one if you’ve never laid tile before. Good luck, —Robert

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M A R C H 3, 2019

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 23

Plan your escape to see the big trees

T R AV E L

By Michele E. Buttelman Signal Staff Writer

used to go camping every summer in our 1963 Wheelcamper, inherited from my husband’s parents. We wanted to show our daughter the natural wonders of California and beyond. Among my favorite memories are the times we camped among the majestic redwoods and sequoias in Northern and Central California. I’ll never forget the morning a California Scrub Jay flew off with my daughter’s breakfast pastry, picking it up from the picnic table and flying off into the trees. Summer will be here before you know it, and the best camping spots may already be reserved — so now is the time to plan your escape to see California’s majestic “big trees.” Memories await. Here are a few places to visit and special to trees to see.

California’s Big Trees

There are two distinct type of redwood trees. Coast Redwoods are considered the “true” redwood. Coastal redwoods grow only within a foggy 500-mile belt along the Pacific, from Big Sur to southwestern Oregon. These sky-scraping conifers approach 400 feet in height, and may live as long as 2,000 years. Giant Sequoias have a more limited range and number than Coast Redwoods. Only about 70 groves exist, sprinkled along the western Sierra Nevada range, from Placer County south to Tulare County. Unlike redwoods, which commonly form pure stands, sequoia groves are typically scattered throughout the mixed-conifer forest alongside trees such as white fir, sugar pine and incense-cedar. The world’s “tallest tree” designation changes frequently because the “crowns,” or tops, of many trees frequently fall off, changing the tree’s height. To reserve a campsite at any California state park, call Reserve California at (800) 444-7275.

Left: Jayme Lamm checks out a hollow redwood in Humboldt Redwoods State Park in Weott, California. PHOTO CREDIT MAX WHITTAKER. Above: Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Preserve. PHOTO CREDIT ©2018 AFAR MEDIA LLC

Popular parks and must-see trees Redwood National and State Parks There are four developed campgrounds and seven back-country sites to camp in this 131,983-acre park. In the 1920s, three state parks were created in the area, Jedediah Smith, Del Norte Coast and Prairie Creek Redwoods State Parks. In 1968, the discovery of the world’s tallest tree (at that time) in a hidden old growth forest led to the creation of Redwood National Park. A unique federal-state partnership was born to manage the parks. There are five visitor centers: Hiouchi Visitor Center, Jedediah Smith Visitor Center, Crescent City Information Center, Prairie Creek Visitor Center and Thomas H. Kuchel Visitor Center. Info www.nps.gov/redw/planyourvisit/visitorcenters.htm

Big Tree This old growth gi-

ant has a circumference of 68 feet. Located on the Newton Drury Scenic Parkway near the Prairie Creek Visitor Center, the tree is an estimated 1,500 years old.

Tall Trees Grove Pick up a free permit to hike to the grove, considered by some the most beautiful in the park, at the Thomas H. Kuchel Visitor Center. The current record-holder for “Tallest Tree” remains

hidden in an undisclosed location, to prevent vandalism.

Yosemite National Park

The Mariposa Grove, which closed in the spring of 2015 for the largest restoration project in the park’s history, re-opened to the public June 15 of last year. The habitat for sequoias was improved by removing parking lots and roads and restoring the natural flow of water. Parking was relocated two miles from the grove, and is connected by shuttle buses. Located near the South Entrance, the Mariposa Grove is the largest grove in the park and is home to more than 500 mature giant sequoias. A variety of trails, from easy to strenuous, are within the grove. The Mariposa Grove is home to some of the oldest sequoias in existence. Info /www.nps.gov/yose/planyourvisit/mg.htm. Camping reservations: /www.nps.gov/yose/planyourvisit/ camping.htm.

The Grizzly Giant The oldest

tree in the grove. It is believed to be between 1,900 and 2,400 years old. The tree stands 210 feet tall and 30 feet in diameter. It is the 25th largest tree in the world.

The California Tunnel Tree Only a few living trees still

stand with tunnels. The California

Tunnel Tree was created in 1895 to allow coaches to pass through the tree. Today, people can walk or bike through it. The California Tunnel Tree and the Grizzly Giant can be reached by a hike of less than a mile from the Mariposa Grove parking lot. The most famous “tunnel tree” in the Mariposa Grove, was the Wawona Tunnel Tree (created in 1881). It crashed to earth in February 1969.

Telescope Tree One of the most fascinating trees in the Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias is a living tree that has become completely hollowed out as the result of withstanding countless forest fires over the centuries. Visitors can stand inside the base of the tree and see all the way through its trunk to the sky above. Other Famous Sequoias The

Washington Tree, the largest tree in the grove at 35,950 cubic feet; the Faithful Couple, a pair of trees who grew so close to each other that their bases fused together; and the Fallen Monarch, a tree that fell over more than 300 years ago. Giant sequoias are extremely resistant to decay and it is unknown how long the remains of a fallen tree can last if left undisturbed. See REDWOODS, page 40

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M A R C H 3, 2019

SCHOOL

The connection between eating and energy

he connection between energy and eating is significant. A healthy diet and approach to eating can vastly improve energy levels, while a poorly planned diet that lacks nutrition can contribute to feelings of fatigue and increase a person’s risk for various ailments. The Harvard Medical School notes that different kinds of foods are converted to energy at different rates. That’s why some foods, such as candy, provide quick boosts of energy while foods such as whole grains tend to supply the body with energy reserves that it can draw on throughout the day. It’s not just what people eat but how they eat that can affect their energy levels. In addition to choosing the right foods, men and women can try

the following strategies as they look to eat to boost their energy levels.

Eat smaller, more frequent meals. Avoiding the traditional

three-meals-per-day approach may help improve energy levels, especially

for people who tend to eat sizable meals once, twice or even three times every day. According to the Cleveland Clinic, the metabolisms of people who do not eat regularly will slow down, as the body absorbs and stores more of the food it eats. Those stores include cholesterol and fat, which can be unhealthy and contribute to weight gain. However, by eating small meals more frequently, one’s metabolism speeds up and more calories are burned. The body recognizes more food is soon on the way and, as a result, it does not need to store as much cholesterol and fat as it would if meals were eaten less frequently.

Avoid a big lunch. The Harvard Medical School notes that, while the reasons are unclear, research has indicated that the circadian rhythms of

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Monday, March 4 Tuesday, March 5 Wednesday, March 6 Thursday, March 7 Friday, March 8

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Egg & Sausage Wrap Breakfast Bun Cereal Chilled Fruit Fresh Fruit Breakfast Quesadilla Breakfast Bun Cereal Chilled Fruit Fresh Fruit Fruit Juice

Turkey Taco Dippin’ Chicken & Sauce Smart Choice Pizza* Seasonal Salad Bar

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Meatballs & Marinara Sub Corn Dog Dippin’ Chicken & Sauce Smart Choice Pizza* Seasonal Salad Bar Brownie Cup

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people who eat big lunches indicate a more significant drop in afternoon energy levels than the rhythms of people who eat smaller midday meals. Men and women who eat big lunches and find their energy levels waning later in the workday can try to eat smaller midday meals to boost their energy.

Be careful with caffeine. The

foods people eat are not the only components of their diet that can affect their energy levels. Caffeinated beverages can provide a temporary boost of energy as well. However, men and women who drink coffee or other caffeinated beverages to boost their energy levels should avoid doing so in large amounts after 2 p.m. That’s because caffeine can cause insomnia, and insufficient sleep can dramatically affect energy levels.

Choose the right snacks. Eating smaller, more frequent meals may compel some people to snack. The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics notes that snacks are important as long as they’re the right snacks. Avoid snacks that are just empty calories in favor of foods that contain protein and fiber-rich carbohydrates. Such snacks, which may include fruits such as apples and fresh berries or protein sources like nuts and Greek yogurt, can provide lasting energy. It’s also important that men and women not snack to fill themselves up, but rather to quell any hunger pangs and get an energy boost between meals. The foods people eat and when they eat them can have a dramatic impact on their energy levels.  —Metro Connection

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M A R C H 3, 2019

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 25

FOOD

When it’s cold and rainy, these soups hit the spot By Michelle Sathe Signal Staff Writer

Pho

hen it’s cold and rainy outside, what really hits the spot? Soup, of course. It’s got everything you need in one hot, steamy bowl of goodness. If you don’t have time to make your own, or just want to get out of the house, there are plenty of restaurants in the SCV that serve up just what you’re looking for. From classics like Chicken Matzo Ball to more exotic tastes, such as ramen and pho, these soups have homemade flavor with a little extra gourmet flair … which all adds up to a “soup”-er satisfying experience.

Albondigas

Vallarta Supermarkets 18571 Soledad Canyon Road, Canyon Country and 23449 Lyons Avenue, Newhall. www.vallartasupermarkets. com

Pho Ha 888 23360 West Valencia Boulevard, Valencia. (661) 254-2134 or visit phovalencia.com Pho Ha 888 spends 16 hours boiling bones, meat, aromatics, and vegetables for the foundational aromatic broth that starts each order of its delicious pho. My favorite — the Oxtail pho — comes with a separate dish of tender, shredded meat that you add to the mix for a pure beefy essence. Add cilantro, basil, bean sprouts, jalapenos and lime or some of the spicy sidekick condiments to truly make it your own. The tortilla soup at Mama’s Table is a cross between vegetable soup and chili. It is a customer favorite. PHOTOS BY MICHELLE SATHE

squash, plus several hot, fresh tortillas and a small bowl of rice. Spice things up with green or red salsa, cilantro, and onion from the serve-yourself kiosk, find a table in the brightly colored dining area, and dive in.

Chicken Matzo Ball

Vallarta’s albondigas soup has tender meatballs swimming in a tomatotinged broth.

Great soup in a supermarket? The answer is yes, if that supermarket is Vallarta, which has a carniceria (or deli) with several soups to choose from, including a stellar albondigas. Order a medium or large bowl and you’ll get lots of tender meatballs swimming in a tomato-tinged broth with chunks of carrots and chayote

Cathy’s Deli 23120 Lyons Avenue, Suite 24, Newhall. (661) 288-2217 If you’re feeling even the slightest bit under the weather, head to Cathy’s Deli for a bowl of Chicken Matzo Ball Soup. There’s so much good stuff going on in here — hearty parpadelle noodles, large pieces of white meat chicken, carrots, celery, and a huge, fluffy matzo ball in the middle — it’s sure to cure whatever ails you … or at least give you some delicious comfort.

Spicy Miso Ramen

Umaichi Ramen 26877 Bouquet Canyon Road, Saugus (661) 296-8362 You don’t need to go to Los Angeles for superb ramen when Umaichi is The Matzo Ball soup at Cathy’s Deli is full of hearty parpadelle noodles and large pieces of white meat chicken. It will cure whatever ails you.

right in Saugus. The Spicy Miso is something to behold — a rich, dusky golden pool of broth with bits of ground chicken nestled between long, tender ribbons of ramen and little red flecks of chili. You control the spice level when ordering (medium is always a good bet) and can add even more flavor with seasoned salt and sesame oil from the table. Yum.

Lentil

Daily Harvest Café & Juicery 22722 Lyons Avenue, Newhall. (661) 383-9387 or www.thedailyharvest. com For a soup that eats like a meal, try the Daily Harvest’s Lentil, made from a family recipe handed down through generations by Chef Andres Moya’s family. Lentils are slowly simmered with aromatic onions, garlic, and cumin, remaining whole for a bit of bite in a vegan dish that’s sure to satisfy any appetite. It’s also served with a lightly dressed arugula salad for a burst of extra healthy freshness.

The Lentil soup is a vegan dish with a bit of bite that is sure to satisfy. Find it at Daily Harvest Café & Juicery

Pho Tom Kha

Jasmine Thai Noodle & BBQ 23360 Valencia Boulevard, Valencia. (661) 254-2012 or visit www.jas minethainoodleandbbq.com Served in a huge white tureen, Jasmine Thai’s Pho Tom Kha tickles your nose with a its piquant aroma before delighting your taste buds with a creamy, dreamy flavorful mix of coconut milk, lemongrass, lime juice and chili paste stocked with long, curly noodles and slices of tender chicken.

Tortilla

Mama’s Table, 3340 Cinema Drive, Valencia. (661) 284-5988 or visit www.himamastable. com Mama’s Table has four homemade soups to choose from every day. The tortilla soup is a standout, a cross between vegetable soup and chili, with lots of savory Angus beef in a slightly spicy, brownish red broth stocked with bits of corn and topped with crispy tortilla strips and melted cheese. 

26 · S U N D AYS I G N A L

M A R C H 3, 2019

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

Musical on menopause to hit The Canyon By Signal Staff

he Canyon Santa Clarita is hosting a performance that might be a bit more relatable to women than men next month. “Menopause The Musical” will play at The Canyon Santa Clarita on March 10 at 9 p.m. The one-nightonly performance is being put on by GFour Productions.

The musical, which has been performed for 17 years, centers on four women who are experiencing menopause. Set in a department store, four women meet while shopping for a black lace bra at a lingerie sale. After noticing unmistakable similarities among one another, the cast jokes about their woeful hot flashes, mood swings, wrinkles, weight gain and much more. These women form a

sisterhood and unique bond with the entire audience as they rejoice in celebrating that menopause is no longer “The Silent Passage,” according to a news release. The 90-minute production also features parodies of classic pop songs of the ’60s, ’70s and ’80s. The musical, the longest-running scripted production in Las Vegas, has tickets available online at Ticketmaster.com, or by calling (800) 745-3000.

Patrons who purchase a ticket at a table are required to purchase dinner with a minimum of $25 and arrive by 7 p.m.  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 Wheremusicmeets theSoul.com.

M A R C H 3, 2019

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 27

A look back at Oscar night By Dianne White Crawford Signal Contributing Writer

he Academy missed its goal of a three-hour presentation, but only by 17 minutes. Ratings were up over last year, and diversity was on full display — so it seems things went pretty smoothly without a host. Despite some recent bungled decision-making, followed by a social media outcry which resulted in decision reversals, the Academy deserves credit for a fine presentation. I trust you don’t want to read yet another rant about why a certain award proves how out of touch the Academy is. I love movies and prefer to view the Oscars as a celebration, rather than a political statement. By the time the final envelope was opened, all eight Best Picture nominees had won at least one Oscar. Additionally, two other excellent films, “If Beale Street Could Talk” and “First Man,” also won awards (Best Supporting Actress and Visual Effects, respectively). Spreading the major award love over 10 different films speaks not just to the diversity, but also the deep lineup of quality filmmaking during 2018. Queen opened the show with Adam Lambert proving how remarkable Freddie Mercury’s voice was, while Brian May showed us he still plays a mean guitar. Best Actor winner Rami

PHOTO BY IMDB.COM

Amy Poehler, Tina Fey and Maya Rudolph stand backstage during the ABC telecast of the 91st Oscars at the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood. PHOTO BY AARON POOLE / AMPAS

Malek fell off the stage after giving his speech. Fortunately, he wasn’t seriously hurt. Melissa McCarthy (and a puppet) and Brian Tyree Henry fully and elaborately committed to their duties as co-presenters of Best Costume. Despite not being present, the ubiquitous Oprah made an appearance — via the montage of 2018 films (from her bomb “A Wrinkle In Time”), and we saw a live quasi-reunion of “Wayne’s World” with Mike Myers and Dana Carvey (sans wigs and head-bobbing). Spike Lee finally won an Oscar (Adapted Screenplay for “BlackkKLansman,” and then proceeded to hog the microphone from his equally deserving co-writers, before throwing a tantrum when “Green Book” was announced as Best Picture. Of course, the most tweeted-about moment came when Bradley Cooper and Lady Gaga took the stage to sing their (Oscar-winning song) “Shallow” from “A Star is Born.” It was a very intimate duet that, had there been one more verse, might have resulted in clothes being shed on stage. Olivia Colman (“The Favourite”) won the Best Actress Oscar over Glenn Close (“The Wife”). This was Close’s seventh Oscar nomination without a win, keeping her one ahead of fellow nominee Amy Adams (“Vice”). However, neither of them gained ground on songwriter Diane

Warren whose nomination for “I’ll Fight” (RBG) was her 10th without a win. It should also be noted that Colman’s acceptance speech was the

E N T E R TA I N M E N T funniest, most charming and most heartfelt of the evening. In contrast to Close, Adams and Warren, Regina King was thrilled to win the Best Supporting Actress Oscar with her first ever nomination (“If Beale Street Could Talk”). In a show of ultimate class, Congressman John Lewis presented Best Picture nominee “Green Book”, and we could be certain a man with his perspective and role in history wouldn’t partake in any tantrum-throwing. Mahershala Ali (“Green Book”) won Best Supporting Actor for the second time, and Alfonso Cuaron won three Oscars (Best Director, Cinematographer, Best Foreign Language Film) for his autobiographical film “Roma.” Also winning three Oscars on the night were “Black Panther” (Costumes, Production Design, Score); however, it was “Bohemian Rhapsody” with four wins that walked away with the most statuettes. 

28 · S U N D AYS I G N A L

M A R C H 3, 2019

THINGSTODO

Great wildflower explosion in southern California a direct runoff from the mountains. Consequently, if the rain and snow continue, the falls should put on a wonderful performance for visitors. You should spy a few more California poppies here. Day use is free.

By Signal Staff

ll reports from the experts indicate this will be a banner year for wildflowers in California. The state parks have issued a release warning, in good humor, that “the visiting public may … encounter severe eye strain due to the after effects of California’s rainy weather, especially in desert locations in Southern California.” According to Sid Dutcher of the Theodore Payne Foundation, the display will be the best in a decade, with an explosion of color in the fire-damaged Cuyamaca Rancho State Park in San Diego County. “Fire chaser” wildflowers drenched in the winter rains should create the preeminent show in all of California. Santa Clarita residents won’t need to travel far to enjoy the beauty, as the delicate flowers can be enjoyed close to home. They can be found at the Santa Barbara Botanical Gardens, Antelope Valley Poppy Preserve and the Hungry Valley Off-Highway Vehicle Recreation Area in Gorman. If you don’t have time to get off the highway, just drive up through the Grapevine to experience a sea of yellow, or north on Highway 14 from Soledad Canyon Road into the Antelope Valley for a display of poppies, goldfields and lupines. Dutcher advises the wildflower season begins in the lower eleva tions in February, the mid-elevations (such as the Grapevine and the Poppy Preserve in Lancaster) in mid-March to early April and finishes in the high elevations of California’s mountainous regions in May and early June. If you are planning a wildflower adventure requiring an overnight stay, you should make your reservation early. When the flowers are the most en masse, so are the tourists.

Los Angeles County

The poppies are popping at the Antelope Valley California Poppy Reserve and park officials advise that visitors could enjoy blooms as early as late February. The Visitors Center is scheduled to open early- to midMarch. When in bloom, the blazing fields will display the California poppy, owl’s clover, cream cups and

COURTESY PHOTOS

coreopsis, among others. Seven miles of trails traverse the preserve, including a paved section for wheelchair access. Be advised that on particularly windy days, the poppy blooms close tightly, minimizing their show. Park Fee is $10 per vehicle. Recorded Information Line: (661) 724-1180 California Poppy Reserve: (661) 942-0662 Antelope Valley California Poppy Reserve http://www.parks.ca.gov/ default.asp?page_id=627 Folks come from around the world just to catch a glimpse of the California poppies, goldfields, lupine and tidy tips in Tejon Pass. A repre sentative from the park advises that if the temperature remains below 70 degrees, it should be a good season beginning in mid-March. There is a self-guided tour route and rangers are on hand on the weekends during the height of the season to provide two hour tours. Info Hungry Valley State Vehicular Recreation Area http://ohv.parks. ca.gov/default. asp?page_id=1192

Santa Barbara County

Wildflowers abound throughout the county following the spring rains. You’ll find the hillsides of Figueroa Mountain in Los Padres National Forest resplendent with shooting stars, California buttercups, California poppies, lupine, snakeroot, buck brush milk maids and goldfields. Don Wimpress, a docent with the Cachuma Lake Reservation Area, has recently visited Figueroa Mountain. He tells us that for about four months, you’ll find wildflowers along the road leading up the mountain. The lower elevations have already

begun to blossom and the higher elevations will sprout in June and July. Drive the hillsides on your own, or indulge in a tour by Cloud Climbers Jeep Tours. With Cloud Climbers, you choose from several different tours, all which include a gourmet picnic lunch and a knowledgeable tour guide. Stop in at the Ranger Station on Paradise Road, just off Hwy 154. No doubt you’ll find an abundance of wildflowers en route to the station. An adventure pass is required, $5. Info Los Padres National Forest Ranger Station, 3505 Paradise Road, Santa Barbara. (805) 968-6640 http:www.fs.fed.us/r5/lospadres Cloud Climbers Jeep Tours (805) 646-3200 http://www.ccjeeps.com/ The naturalist with Cachuma Lake Recreation Area suggests the Sweetwater Trail as the best opportunity to view the wildflowers in the park. Linda Taylor at the Nature Center Foundation is predicting a very good year for the flowers. Blooming already are poppies, blue dicks, cean othus, fiesta flower, milk maids, night shade, peony, California buttercup, lupine, purple sage and hummingbird sage. A day pass ($10) will get you into the park. Take time out for a Wildlife Cruise aboard the 45-passenger “Osprey” for a 2-hour lake tour with a naturalist. $15/adults, $10/kids. Reservations are recommended. Info Cachuma Lake Recreation Area http://www.sbparks.com/ DOCS/Cachuma.html (805) 6884515 Naturalist Info. While you’re in the area, take the short hike to Nojoqui Falls, a refreshing waterfall just off Hwy 101. The falls are running strong, as they are

Info Nojoqui Falls http://www.sb parks.com/Scripts/ParksDetail.asp? ParklD=14 (805) 568-2460 The Santa Barbara Botanical Garden is a living museum of 78 acres, dedicated to preserving California’s native plants, including our wildflowers. You’ll find at least a dozen species, from blue-eyed grass to white sage. The wildflowers will be at their peak through early May. Spend the afternoon visiting the desert, meadow, redwoods and Japanese Teahouse. Artist Patrick Dougherty will begin weaving a large environmental sculpture for the garden on February 25. Info Santa Barbara Botanical Garden. (805) 682-4726 http://www.sbbg.org

Where To Stay? Los Olivos Fess Parker’s Wine Country Inn & Spa (800) 446-2455 http://wwwjess parher.com If it’s just the two of you, consider booking a stay at this opulent inn nestled in the heart of the Santa Ynez wine country. Your stay always includes a delectable meal in the award winning Vintage restaurant, nightly turn down service with lavender, down comforters and pillows, luxury linens, an in-room fireplace, and complimentary mountain bike usage for those wildflower excursions. Sore from biking? Then schedule a massage at Spa Vigne. This is the creme de la creme of country inns. Solvang Royal Scandinavian Inn (805) 6888000 http://www.solvangrsi.com/ Conveniently located in the center of Solvang and within walking distance to restaurants and shopping, this cozy inn with European charm provides a fabulous respite for families or the budget conscious traveler. Santa Barbara Hotel Andalucia (805) 884-0300 http://www.andaluciasb.com/ This new luxury hotel located in downtown Santa Barbara, greets guests with earthy sunny golden hues

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THINGSTODO and deep red tones, embroidered linens, down comforters and pillows, imported Spanish mosaic tiles, thick robes, and many modern conveniences. A rooftop terrace provides the most romantic setting with a Mission-style fireplace, swimming pool and Jacuzzi. It offers a 360-degree view of the red-tiled roofs of Santa Barbara, the Pacific coastline and the Santa Ynez mountains. Regional cuisine may be enjoyed in the hotel’s casually elegant restaurant, 31 West. San Bernardino/Riverside County Joshua Tree National Park, an 800,000-acre preserve located just outside of Palm Springs, is already seeing blooms at the lower elevations. Just like Death Valley National Park, as the weeks progress the wildf1owers are visible at the higher elevations. They are expecting a fabulous year and the Joshua Trees are just begin ning to bloom with clusters of white succulent t1owers, which pies are blooming at the lower elevations around the perimeter of should be blooming through the month of March. Lupines and poppies are blooming at the lower elevations around the perimeter of the park. Desert lilies, growing to a height of three feet, and desert five spot are worth the drive to see. The season here is March, April and even May, but the best time to visit is March, for the greatest variety. Joshua Tree will be a sea of red, blue white and yellow. Info Park Fee: $30 per vehicle, 7-day pass. (760) 367-5500 http://www.nps. govljotr/

Where to stay?

For a truly unique desert experi ence, stay at the inn or one of the cabins at the Rosebud Ruby Star. You’ll be just two minutes from the entrance of Joshua Tree NP — sleeping, or even soaking in a cowboy hot tub, outdoors is optional. Uniquely appointed, all have private baths, include a gourmet breakfast and an experience to last a lifetime. Recommended by Sunset Magazine, the LA Times, Fodors and the Lonely Planet. Rosebud Ruby Star. (760) 366-4676 http://www.rosebudrubystar.com Riverside County Indian Canyons in Palm Springs is a desert oasis of palm trees, waterfalls and a flowing stream, offering visitors a choice between a wander-

http://www. starwoodhotels.com Once you’ve spent some time wandering in the desert, head west toward the ocean and stay in the newly refurbished Sheraton San Diego Hotel, Mission Valley. You’ll sleep like an angel on the Sheraton Sweet Sleeper Bed, yet by day you will be just steps from Balboa Park, the Gaslamp Quarter, and the beach.

Lupines and poppies are blooming at the lower elevations around the perimeter of Joshua Tree National park.

ing, paved footpath or more rugged foot and equestrian trails. You may be lucky enough to see big horn sheep in their natural habitat, although the wild ponies have been relocated due a shortage of their water supply. The wildflowers were beginning to bloom, but the full season peaks in the beginning of March. Unless there is a major freeze, early rains and warm weather should provide a bountiful supply of forget-me-nots, phacelias, lupine, wild hyacinth, canterbury bells, fiddlenecks, brittlebush and cheese weed through April. Info Park Fee:. $9 adults, $7 seniors, $5 children. (760) 323-6018 http:// www.indian-canyons.com/canyons. html

Where to stay? Rancho Mirage What’s the one thing a hotel should do right? Give their guests a good night’s sleep in a great bed! That is precisely what The Westin Mission Hills Resort & Spa provide to their guests … and oh, so much more. Whether you are traveling with the kids or it’s just the two of you, this oasis of cascading waterfalls, protected walkways, swimming pools and golf courses will provide a welcome respite for the weary traveler. San Diego County Stop in the visitor center before entering Anza-Borrego Desert State Park where you’ll find ranger nature tours, a slide presentation, a store and museum. Wildflowers are already out and equal to last year’s growth and park officials expect this year to be one of the best wildflower seasons on record. The season is full on, peaking about a month earlier than normal. If the weather stays cool, the rains

continue, and the caterpillars don’t hatch, the flowers could be lovely through March. The last time park rangers saw this kind of a bloom was 1992. Get a sneak peak of the blossoms here: http://www.anzaborrego. statepark.org/wildflowers.html Info Park fee: Day use is free. (760) 767-4205 http://www.anzaborrego. statepark. org/

Where to stay? Borrego Springs La Casa Del Zorro Desert Resort (855) 402-2272 http://www.lacasa delzorro.com/ Old World luxury and charm, thick robes and slippers, Frette linen sheets, fresh flowers and marble bathrooms are all standard amenities. On a chilly winter night, nestle before a roaring fire in your room or at dinner in the resort’s Butterfield or Presidio dining rooms. If you can only make it to one location this year to view wildflowers, Cuyamaca Rancho State Park may be the one. Recent wildfires in the area will bring out flowers, often tagged ‘fire chasers,’ that haven’t been seen in years. Combined with a tremendous amount of rain this season, the desert is expected to be awash with color. Cuyamaca is at a higher elevation than Anza-Borrego State Park, so the peak of the wildflower season typically runs mid-March to early April, with flowers visible through June. Cuyamaca Rancho State Park (760) 765-3020 http://www. cuyamaca. statepark. org/

Where to stay? Mission Valley San Diego Sheraton San Diego Hotel, Mission Valley. (619) 260-0111

Inyo County Park Ranger Charlie Callagan expects the wildflower season to be one of the best in the past fifty years in Death Valley National Park, possibly surpassing the great spring bloom of 1998. In fact, on Jan. 29 he wrote, “With the flowers we are seeing it is hard to believe it is only January …” Callagan also advises that the blooms will progress in elevation with the calendar, but visitors will undoubtedly see a beautiful showing through early April. He recommends the Ashford Mill area and the dark volcanic hills on the east side of the road about two miles north of Ashford Mill. Info Park Fee: $30 per vehicle, 7-day pass. (760) 786-3200 http://www.nps. gov/deva/FrameSet-Wildflower. htm

Where to stay?

Within Death Valley National Park Furnace Creek Resort (760) 786-2345 http://www.nps.gov/deva/pphtm/ lodging. html Watch the spectacular sunset over the Panamint Mountains from the patio of an historic fourdiamond resort at the Furnace Creek Inn and swim in the buoyant spring-fed, mineral-rich waters of the guest pool, which maintains a natural temperature of 84 degrees. Sitting by the outdoor massive fireplace will be so enticing, you’ll no doubt return home with plans to build one on your own patio. If traveling with the family, head to the roomier and more modern Furnace Creek Ranch and enjoy dinner at the local saloon. Which ever resort you choose, horsedrawn carriage rides, horseback riding and golf - at the world’s lowest course at 214 feet below sea level - are all available to guests of the Furnace Creek Resort.

For more information, check out The Theodore Payne Foundation for Wildflower and Native Plants, Inc. http://www. theodorepayne. org/plants.html 

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PROFILE

Using the ‘game of kings’ as a metaphor for life By Matt Fernandez Signal Staff Writer

hess, often referred to as “the game of kings,” is a centuries-old game enjoyed by people of all ages. Expert ranked chess player Jay Stallings has made it his mission to help Santa Clarita students find joy in this ancient battle of wits. Stallings is the founder of the California Youth Chess League (CYCL), which teaches after-school classes and hosts tournaments, like the California state championship, and created the “Coach Jay’s Chess Academy” instructional book series. In the past 25 years, Stallings has taught chess to more than 40,000 children in Santa Clarita. As the son of a Florida state champion chess player, Stallings began learning chess at age 5, he said. “We played every day, and it was just something I enjoyed, but it was the only sport I was able to beat my brother at,” Stallings said. “After that, I decided this was something I really wanted to pursue. Even though I always lost to my dad, I discovered at a tournament that I was playing at a much higher level than other people my age.” At age 11, Stallings was recognized as the third-best player for his age and credits this accomplishment for giving him the confidence to pursue leadership roles, like captain of his school’s soccer team and student council president. Stallings went on to work in international business and

Chess coach Jay Stallings plays a game of chess with one of his students at Meadows Elementary School in Valencia. PHOTOS BY CORY RUBIN / THE SIGNAL

coached soccer on the side. In 1993, the chess film “Searching for Bobby Fischer” was released and, at the urging of his wife, who believed the film would spur mothers to enroll their children in lessons, Stallings left his career to teach chess. He held his first class on the week of the Northridge earthquake with 27 students. “The family business growing up was teaching guitar, and my mom was a phenomenal teacher, so I watched her to learn how to be a good teacher,” Stallings said. “I was also facing a lot of the societal pressures to make more money versus what I was passionate about, but my wife helped me stay on this path. I’m still in contact with a lot of the students from that first class.” After two years of teaching chess, Stallings formed the CYCL as the first nonprofit educational chess organization and went from having 75 students at a time to

Coach Stallings goes over a workbook with one of his students.

as many as 1,000. He found that venues that normally cost money were willing to let him use their spaces for free as a nonprofit, and that people wanted to donate to his cause, so forming a nonprofit was a way to make chess education more affordable and to reach a wider audience. Since then, Stallings has been president of the Southern California Chess Federation and taught chess internationally. The CYCL is Santa Clarita-based because Stallings lives here. He said he appreciates the small-town, self-contained nature of the city that at the same time is large enough to sustain a robust community of chess players. Though good chess players are often surrounded by an aura of intellectual mystique, Stallings acknowledges that chess has a long way before it approaches the same level of popularity as sports like soccer, but he is thankful to have been able to establish a local hotspot for it. Stallings said that the beginning of his chess teaching career was very focused on the technical aspects and strategies. However, that focus changed in 2006, after one of Stallings’ top students, Sean Reader, died of cancer. After that, the focus shifted toward using chess as a metaphor and tool to teach life skills. “It changes your perspective when someone you’re close to passes away,” Stallings said. “You stop thinking about how can you train grandmasters and instead look at how you can

change these kids as a person. Now, I don’t look at games as if you won or you lost, but as ‘did you win or did you learn?’” Throughout the years, Stallings had been writing his own curriculum, and in 2014, he created the “Coach Jay’s Chess Academy” app that was downloaded 100,000 times before the software became outdated and was too expensive to update in 2017. Though the app did not last long, it helped Stallings better structure his lessons. Fans of the app began to ask if the material was available in print, which led him to convert the lessons from the app into a seven-level series of lessons and puzzle books along with a sticker passport book reward system. A Kickstarter campaign for the “Chess Academy” books series raised $30,000. Last year, he sold 16,000 books and hopes to triple that number this year. He added that he would like to expand the book series and would like to find a way to revive to app. “The book series is great because a lot schools can’t afford to buy 50 iPads for the app but they can easily get the books for their students,” he said. “I’m really proud of this book series because they’re like a megaphone for me to help get my material out there.” Moving forward, the 52-year-old chess coach said he wants to help train his employees to keep the CYCL alive, even if he is not at the helm. Though he is looking to eventually retire from his position as the organization’s director, Stallings said that he has no plans to stop teaching chess. “I like that chess teaches grit and that it’s a nice, level playing field, where if you bear down you have a good chance of success, whether you’re 7 or 70 years old,” he said. “Both my sons got a chance to play with my dad while he was alive, and you can’t put a price on that ability to connect people across generations and across the world.” 

To learn more about the California Youth Chess League visit http:// cycl.org and to learn more about “Coach Jay’s Chess Academy” visit https://coachjayschessacademy. com.

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FA M I LY B U S I N E S S

WE DO G FOR CATERIN

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OCCASIO

133 years of service from our family to yours in the Santa Clarita Valley. At the age of 16, longtime owner Alfredo Mercado, started working as a busboy at The Original Saugus Café in 1982. After working at the county’s oldest restaurant for over 15 years, Alfredo Mercado purchased The Saugus Café in 1998 with the help of another coworker. Although Mercado and his partner never previously owned a business, they jumped at the chance to purchase the restaurant when they found out it was for sale. Since taking ownership, Mercado has never wanted to change anything about The Original Saugus Café. He takes pride in rarely ever changing the menu, the recipes, or even the décor and atmosphere of the building. In addition to not altering the menu and décor, Mercado also tries to keep his staff the same. The Original Saugus Café is a family-owned and operated business with approximately 20 members of his family who either work at the restaurant or have previously worked there. His daughter, Yecenia, is the restaurant manager who also handles the marketing and advertising for the business. As for the employees who are not blood related to Mercado, he considers them family, according to Yecenia. She goes on to say, “We are such a good team, I could not see the place running the same if it weren’t a family.” Established in 1886, The Original Saugus Café is the county’s oldest restaurant, turning 133 years old this year. It is open 364 days a year, with Christmas Day as the only exception.

25861 Railroad Ave., Santa Clarita, CA 91350 • 661-259-7886

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When you need help with a serious subject Wills • Trusts • Probate Elder Law • Trust Administration www.ginamacdonald.com 25115 Avenue Stanford, Suite A-209, Valencia, CA. 91355

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Valencia became the home of Rick and Ann Patterson in 1973. Rick was attending law school, and in 1977 he opened his first law office in the Plaza Posada on Lyons Avenue, while Ann was teaching at Wiley Canyon Elementary. All eight of their children attended Hart High and consistently express their appreciation for the teachers and administration who provided the best learning experiences. “The practice of law provides us with an amazing variety of ways to offer the protections available under the law, to those people who have been injured or suffered due to violations of the laws accidents or the evil plans of others,” Rick Patterson concluded.

Rick and Ann Patterson

Susan Owen graduated from Hastings College of Law and Greg Owen graduated from Southwestern School of Law. Both were recognized by their peers as exceptional litigators while working for different firms. It was twenty years ago that the Patterson Law Firm became Owen, Patterson & Owen, LLP, when Rick Patterson, Susy Owen and Greg Owen joined forces and combined their mutual strengths and expertise into one of the premier personal injury firms in the United States. Currently, some of their higher profile cases involve thousands of victims with claims arising from the negligence and wrong-doing of others, including the Las Vegas Route 91 shooting victims and the Porter Ranch gas leak residents. “Our primary goal is to help right the wrongs that have so negatively impacted our clients,” commented Rick Patterson. The firm focuses on cases where clients have been seriously injured, including motorcycle, truck and automobile accidents. Their philosophy is to win. In order to do that, they prepare every case as if it is going to trial. The insurance companies recognize that and have a high level of respect for them. These two families are sincerely grateful to have their headquarters in the Santa Clarita Valley. “We appreciate the support that our firm and our families receive from you, our neighbors,” stated Greg Owen.

This May marks the 42nd anniversary of the founding of the firm.

Patterson Family - 2011

Cody Patterson & family

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PERSONAL INJURY LAWYERS

Rick Patterson

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Susan Owen

Greg Owen

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Owen, Patterson & Owen, LLP has been a family business over the past 42 years. Nearly every one of their children has been employed at the firm in various roles. Cody Patterson joined the firm in 2003, after graduating from the University of Utah School of Law and is licensed in both Utah and California. Gerry Owen currently serves as the Director of Marketing. She graduated from Southwestern School of Law in 2008. Madeline Patterson, after receiving her certification as a Medical Assistant, now works with the Pre-litigation Department.

Greg and Susan Owen

Owen Family

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FA M I LY B U S I N E S S

David Garelick - CEO/President

• BUSINESS MANAGEMENT • TAX AND ACCOUNTING • WEALTH MANAGEMENT Founded in the Santa Clarita Valley in the 1960’s, Global (formerly LH Garelick & Associates) is an independent, multi-family office providing integrated tax, accounting, business and wealth management services to entertainment industry professionals, entrepreneurs, executives, professional athletes and their families. Global takes a holistic approach to wealth and legacy planning that factors in all aspects of a client’s financial life and offers them guidance, clarity of thought, and expertise to help them gain confidence towards a more secure financial future.

Lou Garelick - FOUNDER 1960 David Garelick started working for Global in 1987 after graduating from UCLA. He grew up in the Santa Clarita Valley while watching his father, Lou Garelick go from preparing tax returns in their garage to becoming a prominent Business Manager in Hollywood. March 10th, 2019 marks not only the 20th anniversary of Lou’s passing, but also a new beginning when David took over the company as CEO/President. David continues his father’s legacy and has grown the business with offices in Valencia, Sherman Oaks and Nashville, Tennessee. Lou would be so proud of the success of the company and the generations who have continued his legacy: his children, David and Julie, daughter-in-law, Debbie, nephew, Peter and grandchildren Connor, Brooke and Seth.

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Global’s foundation has always been to act in the best interest of our clients and to provide an unsurpassed level of service. If you need assistance with any financial matters, please feel free to reach out to Debbie Garelick at (661) 286-0044 for a complimentary appointment.

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K I D S & FA M I LY | FA M I LY B U S I N E S S

Donna’s Day: Creative Family Fun

Monarch butterflies set to spring into flight Itching to travel for spring break this year? It’s not just you. Consider the monarch butterfly: It’s common for these beauties to spring into flight through different migration corridors of the country and head north this time of year. To get inspired by the life cycles and travel itineraries of monarchs, kids in Minnesota’s Twin Cities landed at a family event on stark and frozen Lake Harriet to learn and interact at the Monarch Butterfly Migration Shanty (think ice-fishing house). Wearing decorated helmets, they rode “monarch-winged” bicycles on the ice. Painted to represent butterflies, thick canvas wings were attached to bicycle handles and available to all. “I’m flying like a monarch,” exclaimed 11-year-old Brendan Frost, as he

W I C A L L’ S SINCE 1968

garden, add milkweed to attract monarchs. Poke a sign in the ground saying, “This is a butterfly-friendly yard” to encourage other neighbors to do the same.

Raise monarch butterflies Ob-

imagined his flight from Mexico to Canada. Inside the shanty, heated by a wood-burning stove and decorated to represent where monarchs overwinter, kids in wool hats and scarves colored paper butterflies and “tagged” and clipped them to firtree sculptures as they learned about pollinators and the migration of these wondrous creatures. In Santa Clarita, you can attract and see monarch butterflies in your own backyard. Here are three ideas to begin your own monarch adventure:

Attract monarchs to your yard As you plan your summer

serve firsthand the wonder of how a caterpillar emerges from a chrysalis as a brilliant orange, black and white butterfly. Insectlore.com is a resource many teachers use for ordering caterpillars and supplies. Or, check out books from your library or online about how to find caterpillars and eggs in your own garden habitat this spring.

Send a butterfly greeting Take a photo of that monarch that landed in your garden and print it. Or, find images of monarchs and draw your own. Attach the photo or cutout drawing to the front side of a folded sheet of cardstock or heavy construction paper. Inside, write a message to

a special friend or relative. Maybe it will be a story dictated by your child about the transformation of a caterpillar to a butterfly in school or in your home, or this lovely poem, attributed to Nathaniel Hawthorne: “Happiness is a butterfly, which when pursued, is always just beyond your grasp, but which, if you will sit down quietly, may alight upon you. 

Donna Erickson’s award-winning series “Donna’s Day” is airing on public television nationwide. To find more of her creative family recipes and activities, visit www. donnasday.com and link to the NEW Donna’s Day Facebook fan page. Her latest book is “Donna Erickson’s Fabulous Funstuff for Families.” © 2018 Donna Erickson Distributed by King Features Synd.

ing ction and Floor s t e p r r Satisfa a e C me,” m s ’ o ll t a s u ic W autiful Ho y of C e r r B u t a n e e s C u lf a Valley fo r Ho u it r o Y la e C k a Over A Ha a t n the Sa dership redo of “M en serving der the c er the lea e n d b u n u s g a in w h t o g a n r Ope rely be siness, d Floorin ers to me -owned bu arpets an y m C il o t s ’ m s ll a f u a c ic a r W . It is want ou n 51 years s, “I don’t e iz s a more tha h p stine em ’s niece Ju icall, who py.” a p is a L h , y e il b m o of Lisa W t d the fa ant them ecommen ion of the r w t I n a , r a d e c e n o fi e h g is d d if sw sat des a thir ebsite, an er expert lu w h c t e o in h t y s ’ b ll n a o d your at Wic re helme lso shop The staff amples to s wrooms a You can a . o g t h e in s r g e b d l h u il t b nd icall’s w ds and Harrolle, a r your nee owroom, W h fo s g e in h r t o it o ou to vis perfect fl with the ient for y n e v n o c e. ave been t h ic o m h e c h a t it’s no rs f e k o y installe lp you ma allers. All “M e t . h s s o r in t a r e e e y h m ho han 33 ertise of for more t d the exp e e m iz o s s a h – p s ar said. Wicall em ppy,” she han 27 ye a t h ering in e r s r o e m m r fo f floor cov usto o c n e h io t t c s company le p e ee in-home rgest s y, which k ffer the la limentary o p e m stay happ o “W c . , s id e a sional is us,” she s nd profes the prem e a n , e o s s e d ls t n a a a n im “Come in and est professio e for the easuring a, design your hom m it e r r e a la m p C o e r h a p t place. to e in San fter it’s in u on how a ation, fre o r lt y o u o e s fl n is r o v u c d design e for yo ill also a ow to car Wicall’s w h . n n o io t d a n ll a a , inst ooring e, n of new fl enter Driv C y e ll a V installatio t 26635 located a 1350. is s ’ ll a ic it W rita, CA 9 040 or vis 6 Santa Cla 9 5 2 1call 66 formation in e r o m r Fo

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FA M I LY B U S I N E S S | T H I N G S T O D O www.monarch-academy.com

FESTIVALS

Continued from page 15

more than 150 crafters), Green Living Expo, car show with vintage cars, a playland for children and Food Court in Memorial Park. The highlight of the festival is the once-a-year viewing of the world’s largest blossoming plant, a Wistaria named one of the seven Horticultural Wonders of the World. Wistaria viewing (no wheelchairs or strollers): $12 shuttle to viewing are ($7 seniors and ages 6-16 years) should be pre-purchased. Info sierramadrechamber.com. (626) 355-5111.

Palm Desert Food & Wine Festival

Monarch Academy celebrates ten years in the Santa Clarita Valley this May. Owners, Hanna and Shawn Matthess, pictured here with their triplet daughters Cora, Olivia and Sasha, work together to create a warm and welcoming environment for fa milies seeking quality progra ms for their young children. Monarch provides educational services for children in early preschool through kindergarten, following an emergent philosophy designed to emphasize skill development and mastery through individualized curriculu m. Hanna began her career in early childhood education in 1994, earning an AA in Early Childhood Education and a BS in Child and Adolescent Development. Hanna will earn her MA in Educational Leadership this May. Combined with Shawn’s MBA and business knowledge, the couple has developed a strong partnership. “We have lived in Valencia for the past twenty-two years and love raising our fa mily in this valley. Monarch Academy was created as a gift to our own children; ensuring that their love of learning would be supported in their first educational experiences. We know that selecting the right environment is very personal and we appreciate those that choose Monarch. We feel that every fa mily enriches our school community.”

March 22-24 The Gardens on El Paseo. The weekend kicks off with a James Beard Gourmet Four-Course Luncheon prepared by top culinary talents, followed by two days of grand experiences, where you can indulge in savory eats from local and regional restaurants and experience more than 60 premium wines. Beer lovers will enjoy unique craft brews, IPAs and draught ciders. Celebrity chefs and restaurateurs Scott Conant, Fabio Viviani, Brooke Williamson and many others will offer demos, tastings and “meet and greets.” Info palmdesertfoodandwine.com.

California Artisan Cheese Festival

March 23-24 Santa Rosa. Tasting tickets $50. A weekend long celebration brought together by experts and presenters of artisan cheese. The event features farms, creameries and producer tours, seminars and pairing demos, chef demos, educational sessions with industry experts and a monger and chef competition. Meet cheesemakers, authors and celebrity chefs. Sample and buy artisan products, taste beer, wine, cider and spirits. Info www.artisancheesefestival.com.

¡Latin Food Fest!

March 29-30 Los Angeles State Historic Park, 1245 N. Spring St., Los Angeles, 90012. Tickets: General admission $35. VIP $149.

Celebrate America’s largest annual Latin culinary celebration. The Seventh Annual ¡Latin Food Fest! Gran Tasting features food, wine, spirits and beer tasting tents, cooking demos by Susan Feniger and Mary Sue Milliken and a music performance by La Junta LA. Includes “Chefs Night Out,” a high energy party and “Gran Tasting Los Angeles,” the festivals signature event featuring food, beverage, wine, beer, and spirits stations, cooking and wine demonstrations, chef awards, VIP Tent, and live music. Info https://latinfoodfest.com/event/ grande-tasting-la/

Knott’s Boysenberry Festival

March 29-April 28 Knotts Berry Farm, 8039 Beach Blvd., Buena Park, 90620. Theme park admission. Celebrate Knott’s historic berry each spring during Knott’s Boysenberry Festival, in the heart of the theme park, Ghost Town. The food festival features countless, one-ofa-kind boysenberry inspired dishes, drinks and more, plus live entertainment, the Wine and Craft Brew Tasting Garden. Info www.knotts.com/play/boysen berry-festival. Lodi Wine & Food Festival March 30 3-6 p.m. Ole Mettler Grape Pavilion at the Lodi Grape Festival Grounds, 413 E. Lockeford St., Lodi, 95240. Grand Tasting: $50 in advance, $60 at the door. Wine tasting from more than 40 wineries, food, music and more. Grand tasting admission includes commemorative wine glass. Info www.grapefestival.com/p/ events/244. 

M A R C H 3, 2019

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 37

Kevin MacDonald: In service of SCV’s seniors By Michele E. Buttelman Signal Staff Writer

evin MacDonald, executive director of the Santa Clarita Valley Senior Center, has a passion for

people. MacDonald was born in Mountain Lakes, N.J., the third of seven children. His father was a college accounting teacher and his mother a homemaker. MacDonald has two sisters and four brothers.

Seeking out service

“I always knew I wanted to work in a nonprofit organization since high school,” MacDonald said. His life of service started in his teens, when he volunteered to work with people with disabilities. MacDonald’s mother was an important influence. “She always encouraged us to volunteer and to give back,” he said. “We all did our different things, and I volunteered at The Arc, which served people with disabilities.” Another important influence on MacDonald was a neighbor with Down Syndrome. Their friendship sparked MacDonald’s desire to help others. After graduating with a B.S. in Business Administration from the University of Dayton in Dayton, Ohio, MacDonald returned home

to New Jersey to become the Director of Residential Services for The Arc-Morris County Chapter in Morris Plains, N.J., the same nonprofit he had served as a high school volunteer. “They offered me a job when I graduated from college,” he said. MacDonald directed the largest community based residential program in New Jersey for people with developmental disabilities. “I had a great time working in that program,” he said. “I loved working for them. The people were great.”

position was the quality of the board,” he said. “I was also very excited to work on the new Senior Center.” The SCV Senior Center is run by the Santa Clarita Valley Committee on Aging. Board members include President, Peggy Rasmussen; Vice President Elizabeth Hopp; CFO Julie Sturgeon; Secretary Mary Jane Hartman; Immediate Past President Rick Patterson; and board members Vinod Assomull, MD; Chris Avelino, MD; Brent Braun; Steve Chegwin; Mike Dean; Bill Lively; Greg Nutter; Vanessa Wilk; and Bonnie Teaford.

Moving to California

After three years in the position, MacDonald moved to California to attend the University of California at Berkeley, where he obtained an MBA with a concentration in public/nonprofit management. After completing his degree, MacDonald decided to stay in California. “The weather and all the outdoor activities you can do 12 months out of the year made California really attractive,” he said. His connection to The Arc in New Jersey landed him a position as assistant executive director at The Arc-California. Located in Sacramento, he became an advocate and lobbyist for people with developmental disabilities on system-wide issues including state budget, entitlements and legislation. “It was great to learn the legislative

Looking forward SCV Senior Center Executive Director Kevin MacDonald at the construction site of the new Senior Center.

system in Sacramento while working for The Art at the state level,” MacDonald said.

Running, hiking, climbing

MacDonald is also an avid runner having competed in the Los Angeles and New York marathons. His current passion is backpacking in the mountains with his two adult sons. “We’ve climbed Half Dome in Yosemite a couple of times,” he said. MacDonald said next on the list is a climb on Mt. Whitney this summer.

Los Angeles

His short stint in Sacramento put him in position to become the Chief Executive Officer of The Arc Los Angeles and Orange counties. Located in Downey, he served 23 years in the position which served more than 400 individuals with developmental disabilities and a staff of more than 70.

SCV Senior Center

SCV Senior Center Executive Director Kevin MacDonald takes a picture of volunteers as they serve some of the hundreds of seniors on hand at the SCV Senior Center. PHOTOS BY DAN WATSON / THE SIGNAL

PROFILE

As a veteran leader in the nonprofit arena, it was no surprise that when the SCV Senior Center began looking for a new executive director MacDonald got the call. He was hired in July 2016. “I loved my job at The Arc, but I was looking for a new challenge,” he said. “I wanted to see what was happening up in Santa Clarita and met with the board. I saw it was very exciting, what was happening with the new center and expanded programs.” “What really attracted me to the

MacDonald said improvements to the programs, and the new facility, are realized for the SCV Senior Center, he is most proud of the staff. “In a short time, the staff have grown from 43 to 83 members. The combination of veteran leaders and young hard-working individuals puts the Senior Center in good hands,” he said. “I am very fortunate to have wonderful staff to care for, prepare food and provide for Seniors every day. You can’t teach love and caring and we have an abundance of those qualities in our staff.” The new building constructed to house the SCV Senior Center is nearing completion with a grand opening expected in April. It will offer an outdoor space for concerts, increased educational offerings, the latest technology with computers and iPads, a place to socialize around the fireplace, increased exercise and dance options, evening movies and a larger, more modern dining and banquet facility. “This will be a welcoming place, a place to make connections, a place of community,” he said. MacDonald said despite assistance from the city of Santa Clarita and the County of Los Angeles in building the new SCV Senior Center donations are still being sought to complete the building. “It is three pieces coming together,” said MacDonald. “The county, the city and our partners — we cannot do it without them.” For information about the campaign for a new SCV Senior Center, please www.newseniorcenter.com or (661) 259-9444. 

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M A R C H 3, 2019

DESIGN S PAC E P L A N N I N G

The aesthetics of balance By Ken Dean Signal Staff Writer

hen people mostly think about the elements that go into creating the interior design of a room, they most likely think of color, pattern and furniture styles. While these are important aspects, another major design element can, and usually does, play a most vital part in your interior decorating: space planning, which involves the placement, arrangement and sizes of the furniture. The challenge is to create and deliver a statement of quality, personalization and design that flows. The first consideration in space planning should be what functions the room or rooms should have, and what should the performance of the furniture be. If the room does not serve your needs, moods and feelings, then it’s not-well planned and designed. Excellent space planning deals with both the functional and the esthetic aspects you want created. Rooms should also have functional living spaces. Floor plans in a quarter-inch scale are very important in showing how every item should fit into a balanced space, and yet, may not fit into a space. Thus the floor plan. If you are using an interior designer, this is an important service by the designer, and remember that your personal touches and input adds your individuality to your decor. The proper combinations of lighting, colors, textures, scale, patterns and balance play an integral role in the warmth and beauty of your decor. I might also add that unity, harmony and drama should fall into place. Give thought also to the type of furniture and styles you want. Some styles may not be too big size-wise, but may look too large aesthetically. The same concept is true for fabrics. It’s hard for an untrained person to be able to tell what a certain fabric

How you use your space is just as important as what you use to fill it with — which is demonstrated in these pictures of a client’s living room. PHOTOS COURTESY KEN DEAN.

will look like on a large sofa or window treatment by looking at a small sample, and most surely this holds true for looking at furniture in a

home you may want to wait until you are settled in to “get the feel.” In this case, window treatments may be your first starting point. Professional

THE FIRST CONSIDERATION IN SPACE PLANNING SHOULD BE WHAT FUNCTIONS THE ROOM OR ROOMS SHOULD HAVE, AND WHAT SHOULD THE PERFORMANCE OF THE FURNITURE BE. IF THE ROOM DOES NOT SERVE YOUR NEEDS, MOODS AND FEELINGS, THEN IT’S NOT-WELL PLANNED AND DESIGNED. furniture store. What looks good in a furniture store may not work in your home both style- and size-wise, and, the lighting is different. You will find that multi-purpose furniture gives your decor more space and functions. For example: A guest room can also serve as an office/den with a sofa bed and a desk that is part dresser. Chairs and ottomans work in most every room. Game tables can serve as a dining table saves a lot of space and you have two functions. This all helps where space is limited. Gaining the maximum usage from your available space requires careful thought and planning. In a new

interior designers will coordinate your window treatments with colors and fabrics. Perhaps the eclectic theme is your desire. Eclectic design utilizes elements from many sources. Most eclectic interiors today try to achieve and reflect furnishings collected over time without a specific harmony in mind, but chosen with the principle of an overall harmony in mind. Many years ago it was the trend to do everything in “matched sets.” However, today the eclectic look brings in an individual style. Adding antiques or antique reproductions, with their beautiful carvings and interesting woods, will blend well into

any of these decors. Because color is one of the most powerful elements of interior design, it should be one of the first considerations in your starting point. Wellplanned lighting is also important in your space planning. As you work on your space planning, flexibility is an important element. You should never just go out and start buying furniture before having the space planned. This also holds true with remodeling. Furniture arrangement, window placement, electric outlets, lighting and traffic patterns should be planned and designed before starting the remodeling. You certainly don’t want a window where a sofa should be or a fireplace in a wrong area with no purpose, which after all should be a focal point. 

Ken Dean is an award winning and published professional interior designer, interior design teacher and writer for 40 years. His website is www. deaninteriordesign.com. He can be reached at (661) 2510170.

M A R C H 3, 2019

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 39

SENIORLIVING

Find ways to connect with loved ones with Alzheimer’s By Ryan Mancini Signal Staff Writer

lzheimer’s disease strikes pain and division in many families, without always giving loved ones a break

to cope. But when it comes to bringing the family together to reconnect with a loved one who has the disease, the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America, or AFA, released several steps for how to reconnect and strengthen connections, according to a news release issued last week. “As the disease progresses and memory fades, it’s about what can we do for loved ones to stay connected,” said Margie Veis, executive director of Oakmont of Valencia, which also works to help families with loved ones who have Alzheimer’s or dementia. To begin, AFA asks families to work on finding ways to reconnect by means of different activities, such as sharing meals, watching films or looking through old photos together. In addition to this, Veis suggested a memory box with mementos and photos, items that can trigger memories, as well as face recognition via Skype or FaceTime. Another option is to learn “love languages,” or ways to express and receive love. This can incorporate gift-giving, acts of service and physical touch. One technique Veis recommended is to take a knee and touch delicately. “I think touch is so important,

but you have to be respectful of the disease process,” Veis said. “(Someone with Alzheimer’s) can become hypersensitive to touch.” AFA also suggested families learn how to be adaptable and take time learning what can be done, rather than staying focused on what cannot be done when going out and spending time together. This can also apply to redefining roles, where the stress of caregiving can lead a spouse or relative to feel less like a loved one. AFA recommends family members not wait to ask for help, or to reach out to other relatives, friends or caregiving professionals for guidance. “Any minute it can be different, and you have to be on their timetable,” Veis said. When the stress becomes too much, AFA’s suggestion to caregivers is to find ways to reach out to support groups that can help people dealing with grief, anger or resentment. Oakmont runs its own support group similar to AFA’s description. Run by marketing director Mary Dembkowski, Veis said there are some people who have used its help for more than 10 years. “It’s not a weakness, it’s a way to learn from other people’s experiences as well as for supporting each other,” Veis said. AFA offers its own support groups, as well as social workers who can be reached at (866) 232-8484 or at alzfdn.org, and are available seven days a week. 

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A bridge tournament like the one shown above offers seniors a fun way to connect with each other. PHOTO BY DAN WATSON / THE SIGNAL

40 · S U N D AYS I G N A L

M A R C H 3, 2019

REDWO0DS

Continued from page 23

Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Reserve

Located in the tiny town of Guerneville along the Russian River the area predates logging in the northern part of the state, so the preserve is home to some of the oldest and tallest trees in Sonoma County.

Parson Jones Tree More than 310 feet tall this tree can be found on a hike along the self-guided nature trail behind the visitor center. On foggy summer mornings, the damp pathways inside Armstrong are great places to spot banana slugs, a kid-friendly park benefit. The park features more than 30 miles of trails to explore. Info www.parks.ca.gov/?page_ id=450.

Humboldt Redwoods State Park

The Save the Redwoods League acquired a single grove of redwoods in 1921. Through the years the League has raised millions of dollars to build and expand the park. Today Humboldt Redwoods spans 53,000 acres. About one third, or 17,000 acres, of the park is old-growth redwood forest, the largest expanse of ancient redwoods left on the planet.

Avenue of the Giants The 32-mile-long Avenue of the Giants is a great drive that allows you to see the trees by car. Tour brochures are available at either end of the Avenue of the Giants, and at the Humboldt Redwoods Visitor Center. Info www.parks.ca.gov/?page_ id=425.

Giant Tree Designated as the National Champion Coast Redwood for having the best combination of height, diameter and crown spread. Located in the park’s Rockefeller Forest, the world’s largest stand of old growth redwoods at 10,000 acres. Dyerville Giant Once perhaps 400 feet high, this champion tree fell in 1991, creating a thunderous roar heard for miles around. It’s still impressive as it sports a huge uprooted root cluster and an enormous crater where it once stood, off the Avenue

of the Giants in Humboldt Redwoods State Park’s Founders Grove.

Albino Redwood Only a handful of these rare forest ghosts exist, including the most picturesque of them all, the so-called Christmas Tree in the Women’s Federation Grove on the Avenue of the Giants. It’s near the grove entrance, but there’s no marked trail.

Sequoia/Kings Canyon National Parks

There are 14 campgrounds in this 768,000-acre wilderness complex. It is one of my favorite places to camp in California. Info www.nps.gov/seki/learn/nature/bigtrees.htm. Camping reservations: www.nps.gov/seki/planyourvisit/eatingsleeping.htm. You can also visit: Recreation.gov.

General Sherman Tree Perhaps

the most “famous” of the “big trees” in California. By volume, it is the largest known living single-stem tree on Earth. The Giant Forest also includes the President Tree (the 3rd largest tree) and the 2-mile Congress Trail.

General Grant Tree The

second-largest tree in the world is located in Grant Grove. An easy trail will walk you past a settler’s cabin and the Fallen Giant Tree. There is also a fallen Tunnel Log you can drive under (as long as your vehicle is less than 8-ft tall.

Big Basin Redwoods State Park

Big Basin Redwoods State Park was founded in 1902, and is California’s oldest state park, as well as the first park in the world to protect the coastal redwood tree. Located in the

COLD CASE

Continued from page 7

the coroner’s report. The blow caved her head in and was described by Riley as a “skull depression” measuring 2.5 inches by 3.25 inches. Riley observed other “underlying multiple fractures” linked to the “skull depression.” A bruise he noted on the back of Clary’s left hand is consistent with injuries expected for someone raising his or her hand in self-defense.

Eliminating suspects

Blood was splattered across the bedroom wall and ceiling above the dead woman’s head, but coroner’s Investigator Jerry McKibben concluded there was no sign of a struggle, robbery or forced entry to the house, and no blood was found elsewhere in the house. Within a day, the murder scene was released and detectives, through interviews, began eliminating people from their list of

Santa Cruz Mountains, it’s home to ancient coast redwoods, some as old as 1,800 years old. The park also offers spectacular views of the Pacific Ocean and a trio of lush waterfalls. Info http://www.parks.ca.gov /?page_id=540. 

suspects, as is routinely done. “There was a gardener at the house,” Lopez said. “We’ve already interviewed him and eliminated him as a suspect.” Detectives said David Clary suggested they look into the possibility the couple’s foster child met with drug dealers in Fresno and stopped at the house in Castaic on their journey down Interstate 5. “We were unable to substantiate any of that story,” Lopez said. “We also interviewed the (foster child).” “The first person to include or eliminate in a (woman’s) murder is the husband or boyfriend,” Lopez said. The one they were still trying to eliminate as a suspect in 2012 was David Clary. On Oct. 25, 2017, all investigators including the victim’s family stopped looking. 

M A R C H 3, 2019

Give your mind a workout with these brainy exercises!

BRAINGAMES

Relax

S U N D AYS I G N A L Î&#x2021; 41

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CROSSWORD TIME

M A R C H 3, 2019

THE VILLAGE IDIOT

When the taxman cometh … By Jim Mullen Signal Contributing Writer

ometimes, I wonder how they pay their taxes in different countries. In Russia, two big, burly guys probably knock on your door and say, “Give us all the money you haven’t hidden yet.” Then they pocket some of it and give the rest to some apparatchik, who pockets some of it and then passes it along to some other official, who takes a cut. On and on and on it goes until, finally, at the end of a long road, some of it goes to the government. The Russian government takes that money and uses it to pay for things like snowplows and secret prisons. Of course, that is not true. The Russian process of collecting taxes is probably very similar to our own. With similar results. Well, their penalties for not paying may be stiffer: As far as I know, the IRS doesn’t employ a firing squad. Yet. If there’s one thing almost everyone can agree on, it’s that they don’t like the way the government spends their hard-earned tax dollars. Or even their inherited tax dollars. The other thing almost universally agreed on is that nobody likes all the hoops they have to jump through just to file their taxes. Whenever someone says, “The government never created a single job,” I counter with, “They created H&R Block.” Not to mention the thousands and thousands of accounting firms across the country that work for large corporations, and entire departments within those corporations that do nothing but work on “tax compliance.” Some people say this puts our country at a competitive disadvantage with other countries. Those people have clearly never been to France, Germany or the 60 other countries that make our complex tax system look like a game of “Go Fish” compared to their versions, which are more like 3-D chess. Their total corporate taxes may end up being lower than ours, but

that doesn’t mean they’re simpler to calculate. Why can’t we make the ordeal of paying taxes simpler? Most of us don’t mind paying for necessities like roads, schools, police, firefighters, EMTs and the military — what we mind is making it so difficult. Just let us write a check and stop making us fill out forms. We have created a system that reminds me of getting a letter with a 50-cent stamp on it that tells me that I owe someone 13 cents. Not only is it a waste of money, it’s a waste of time and paper. And this is in the age of computers, where it could only take a simple click of a button to avoid this kind of nonsensical book-balancing. We’re not alone; it seems all governments love paperwork. “Fill out this form in triplicate” is the motto of governments all over the world. If the government spent $10 to collect $9, the officials in charge would stop it as soon as they realized it (one would hope). The trouble is, THEY aren’t spending the $10. You are. It is costing you, the taxpayer, time and money to file your taxes — not the government. What’s their incentive to stop doing business as usual? Not much. Maybe a law that makes Congress members prepare their own taxes would do it. Do you remember voting for something called “Schedule C”? Do you know what a 1099 is? My accountant does, but I don’t. And this, they tell me, is just the basic stuff. Yet somehow this Byzantine system has survived, and better yet, it changes each year. And here’s the strangest thing of all: The government knows how much tax I should be paying before I fill out the forms. I know because for the past few weeks, I’ve been getting tax documents in the mail. If I make a mistake — accidentally or on purpose — they’ll know. After all, they get the same documents I get. So why not just send me a bill every year? If it looks OK, I’ll send them a check. If not, I’ll call the accountant.  Contact Jim Mullen at mullen.jim@ gmail.com.

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