Sunday Signal April 14, 2019

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APRIL 14, 2019

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Under the sea in the SCV p. 12

Your News, Entertainment & Lifestyle Source

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HOME REMEDIES THAT HEAL

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A WALL OF BEER & MORE

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A PROFILE OF LOCAL LEADERSHIP

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

ELEVATING EVERYDAY EXPERIENCES IN 2019 For more information, visit: westfield.com/valencia/transformation

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4 · S U N D AYS I G N A L

A P R I L 14, 2019

TABLE OF CONTENTS NEWS FEATURES

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LOCAL NEWS

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5 Wellington’s odyssey: A Maltese story 6 The rising cost of higher education 7 Natural remedies found right in your own home

MAY

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2019

Declining enrollment puts pinch on districts statewide Westfield project set to include Costco, luxury cinema When Costco comes to the Santa Clarita Valley City Approves $260k in aid to help fight homelessness Supes OK plan to link homeless people to jobs Deputies arrest man suspected of wielding machete Newhall Aquarium entertains, educates City set to bring back Ring subsidy program

BUSINESS 11 11 City’s 1st female building inspector blazes trail

Come celebrate Water Awareness Month with us!

When: Saturday, May 4, 2019, 9 AM – 2 PM Where: Central Park – 27150 Bouquet Canyon Road NEW IN 2019!

Water Talks! Hear from SCV Water Board members and staff experts, and get your questions answered.

CITY MANAGER

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13 Teamwork helped halt CEMEX

SPORTS 14 14 Lacrosse sees big push in Santa Clarita

WORSHIP 15 15 Explore the true meaning of Easter

TIME RANGER 16 OPINION 17 17 Our View • David Hegg • Tim Whyte

CALENDAR 20 FOCUS ON EDUCATION 21

EDUCATION STATIONS 9:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.

Smart Gardening Workshop: Composting 10 a.m. and 11:30 a.m.

Water Talks! Hear from SCV Water Board members and staff experts, and get your questions answered.

Throughout the day, be sure to check out the working model of SCV’s water treatment process, learn about rebate programs, and talk conservation landscapes with local designers onsite to plan your spring water-wise gardens!

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Charter College sees demand for health care workers Math Support can balance your summer equation What are the benefits of afternoon preschool?

Committed to excellence for all students

DINING GUIDE

29 Tomato Joe’s Pizza offers a self-serving beer wall

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ENTERTAINMENT 30 HOLIDAY 32 2 Passover is the celebration of freedom, hope 3 Fire up the smoker for Easter dinner this year 33 Easter decorating fun for the table

HOME IMPROVEMENT

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SENIOR LIVING

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4 HOA pool problems, permits to fix your roof 3 The right tools for the home renovator 35 The joys and sorrows of loving furry companions

PROFILE 36 36 Seaver serves Henry Mayo and his community

GARDENING 39 39 April gardening tips: What works best for gardens, lawns

DESIGN 40 40 Color is the true catalyst for inspiring design

BRAIN GAMES VILLAGE IDIOT

FAMILY FUN

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100 YEARS

•

9:30 a.m. | 11 a.m. | 12:30 p.m. ”Waterology” Show

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FREE face painting, frozen lemonade, fresh popcorn, caricature drawing, and live D.J.

•

Ranger Frank and his Wild Friends, and the beautiful Conservation Garden for Landscape inspiration

Visitors can take the trolley from the park up to our garden.

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

SignalSCV. com

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

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

661-259-1234

We can’t wait to see you there!

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

A P R I L 14, 2019

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 5

N E W S F E AT U R E

Wellington’s odyssey: A Maltese story

By Emily Alvarenga Signal Staff Writer

M

elisa’s dog Wellington, a Maltese mix, had been missing for almost eight years when she got a call from the Castaic Animal Care Center telling her that he’d been found.

Melisa received Wellington as a puppy with her boyfriend Nick in late 2010, when her family friend’s dog had a litter.

“We would take him to the beach and to the mountains for little hikes,” Melisa said.

It was only a few months later in the summer of 2011 that Wellington went missing from Nick’s fenced-in yard in Panorama City.

“We didn’t know what happened,” Melisa said. “We combed the neighborhood for weeks and asked around, but there was really no response.”

On Saturday, March 23, Wellington was found in Stevenson Ranch, almost 20 miles from home, and was turned into the Castaic Animal Care Center by a local resident.

Fortunately, Melisa had gotten Wellington microchipped when he was a puppy, so when he arrived at the center and the front office clerk scanned him, she was able to trace his chip to Melisa.

“We were down in L.A., and I got a call from a number with an area

Melisa hugs Wellington as the two shared a moment at the Antelope Valley Poppy Reserve after their reunification. The two had been separated for seven years.

PHOTOS COURTESY MELISA

code I didn’t recognize,” Melisa said.

“I waited until there was a voicemail and heard the message about Wellington. At first I thought it was some sick joke, so I was looking it up to see if it was a legitimate source when I got a call from a 661 number and decided to pick up.”

It was the center confirming that Wellington had been found.

“We booked it all the way to Castaic crying and not believing that it was true,” Melisa said. “We didn’t even get

A happy ending: Melisa and Wellington, a Maltese mix, were reunited at the Castaic Animal Shelter thanks to a microchip that Wellington had.

a leash, we didn’t stop anywhere. We might have sped a little.”

Melisa arrived at the center within 45 minutes in tears, according to center officials.

“When we saw him he was still a little scared from being in the shelter, so he was a little hesitant; and it took him a little while to get accustomed,” Melisa said. “But he seems to now be very happy with us.”

It was Wellington’s microchip that allowed him to be reunited with his owner after he had been gone so long.

Collars can break and fall off, leaving your pet among the countless, unidentified lost strays at animal shelters, and Wellington proves that this can easily be prevented with the proper use of a microchip, according to shelter officials.

In fact, a county ordinance requires all dogs over the age of four months to be implanted with a microchip, and the number must be provided to the Los Angeles County Department of Animal Care and Control.

Microchips are the size of a grain of rice, and are implanted under your pet’s skin, according to Karen Stepp, manager of the Castaic Animal Care Center.

“There’s digital information on there so when you scan it, it pulls up an identification number that goes into a database,” Stepp said.

Animal ordinances What are the other animal ordinances we need to know?

All dogs or cats over the age of four months must be licensed annually and a tag must be securely affixed to their collar, according to LA County Animal Care and Control.

Los Angeles County also requires animal to always have a current rabies vaccination and to be spayed or neutered unless a veterinarian determines that it would harm them.

A license in Santa Clarita for an altered dog costs $20 and $60 when unaltered; seniors 60 years of age and over only need to pay $7.50. Altered cats cost $5, and unaltered they are $10.

Failure to comply with these laws may result in fines or penalties, according to officials.

With the chip identification number in hand, center officials were able to find Melisa’s contact information and she was only a phone call away.

“Microchipping is so important,” Melisa said. “We are so happy to have Wellington back.”

A microchip is only as good as the information that’s on there though, according to Stepp, so if your contact information changes in any way, don’t forget to update it with the microchip.

Stepp advises people who find a lost dog to turn it in to their closest animal shelter.

“We’re going to make sure that if it’s injured or ill, we are going to get it the vet care it needs and make sure that it’s taken care of properly,” Stepp said. “The sooner you turn the animal in, the sooner the owner is going to come and find it. If you hold onto it, that might lessen the chances of it getting home.”

Stepp also suggests putting photos of the animal out on social media and trying to find those lost and found pages.

Editor’s note: Last names have been omitted from the story at the request of the dog’s owners. 

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A P R I L 14, 2019

N E W S F E AT U R E

The rising cost of higher education for students graduating in 2020 will become available Dec. 1, 2019 and will continue to be accepted through February 1, 2020, the website states.

Students or parents with questions are encouraged to contact the foundation’s secretary at secretary@ scvsf.org.

By Brennon Dixson Signal Staff Writer

T

here are more opportunities to attend college today than ever before, but getting an education is also more expensive than in years past.

The price tag of college has climbed steadily since the 1980s, as college tuition and fees have increased 1,120 percent since records began in 1978, according to a Bloomberg report.

Students attending local area schools like California State University, Northridge are expected to fork over nearly $7,000 in one semester’s tuition, according to the school’s website, which translates to more than $27,600 over the course of a four-year degree.

The price of tuition at UCs like University California Los Angeles or UC Berkeley are much higher. The cost for one full-time semester at The Masters University is listed on the college’s website as $12,475. At UCLA, that cost is listed as $13,225 for a semester — which is still a good amount cheaper than its cross-town rival, USC, which lists the cost of a semester at $27,660, for tuition alone.

But tuition and fees comprise only some of the costs to attend college, as these figures don’t take into consideration the money it will take to cover gas, groceries, rent and other living necessities that, when combined, can add thousands of dollars in cost to the college experience. According to CSUN, students living with their parents will pay $18,400 in one year, while those living on their own off-campus will need an expected $28,500 to cover their transportation, books and other miscellaneous fees.

While money sometimes can be saved on room and board with multigenerational homes and commuting, one thing is certain: Housing is one of the more expensive costs for college students and their families, and that cost is only going up.

Nationally, the average cost for room and board during the 2016-2017 school year was $10,440 at four-year

Grants

Senior members of the Saugus High School choir sing at the school’s graduation ceremonies at College of the Canyons. SIGNAL PHOTO

public schools and $11,890 at private colleges and universities, according to the College Board.

And those costs typically cover housing for just the school year, which may last anywhere from six to eight months.

As a result, it has become common for some students to take on two or three part-time jobs to make the money needed to receive an education, however when they do, their studies often suffer, according to a CalMatters report, which stated the total cost of college has become untenable.

Debbie Cochrane, vice president of The Institute for College Access and Success, said in the same report that far too many students are struggling to pay non-tuition costs, and are looking for assistance from food pantries and other community assistance programs to help.

Luckily, there are more than a few ways to find financial assistance in the local area.

Scholarships

Every year, the Santa Clarita Valley Scholarship Foundation provides thousands of dollars in scholarships to graduating seniors throughout the

Santa Clarita Valley.

Treasurer Terry Kanowsky previously referred to the awards as the best-kept secret in the Santa Clarita Valley.

“We have a lot of students who may not have the highest GPA but they started a business on their own or they had to work full-time to support their family,” Kanorsky said, adding all students are encouraged to apply.

Previous awards ranged from $500 to $5,000 and were awarded based on a combination of factors, including: GPA, personal achievement, financial need, educational goals and volunteer efforts.

The foundation hopes to award scholarship funds totaling anywhere from $10,000 to $12,000 in 2019, according to its website. To apply, applicants are required to: be a resident of the Santa Clarita Valley, have attended a William S. Hart High School District school for two years and maintained at least a 2.0 GPA. Graduating seniors must also remain in compliance with the district’s Student Rights and Responsibilities and submit a 350-word essay.

The Class of 2019 application period has closed, but applications

While federal student loans programs, such as the Perkins, Stafford and PLUS loans, offer students the opportunity to pay for their college education, they aren’t always the best option because borrowers must repay the loan and any applicable interest, according to collegescholarships. org. “The Pell Grant, however, stands apart from any federal loan programs in that recipients are not required to repay any of the money they receive.”

The Pell Grant is a government award that requires no repayment — similar to a scholarship — and is usually awarded to undergraduate students who display exceptional financial need, according to the Department of Education.

“Award amounts can change yearly,” but the maximum Federal Pell award is around $6,000 for the 2018-19 and 2019-20 award years, according to Federal Student Aid, an office of the U.S. Department of Education. The amount one will receive is dependent on the Expected Family Contribution, the cost of attendance, one’s status as a full-time or part-time student and their plans to attend school for a full academic year or less.

Those interested in discovering if they’re eligible are encouraged to start the process by completing a Free Application for Federal Student Aid form, which is otherwise known as the FAFSA. Students are also encouraged to visit collegescholarships.org/ghave never heard rants/101-grants, where applicants can find 101 grants and scholarships that aren’t as well known. 

A P R I L 14, 2019

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 7

N E W S F E AT U R E

Natural remedies found right in your own home Lemon

By Emily Alvarenga Signal Staff Writer

W

e all know that chicken soup isn’t only good for the soul, but also for helping relieve cold and flu symptoms. And what many might not realize is that there are plenty of other things we may already have lying around the house that can help remedy these, as well as other ailments.

We asked holistic medical experts which home remedies and cures they believe work and compiled a list of their suggestions for things you may already have at home or can easily get at a local store.

Coconut oil

You can rub coconut oil into sore and tired muscles for pain relief, according to Dr. Randy Martin, doctor of Oriental medicine and certified classical homeopath.

Both Crystal Blair and Anita Gage are wellness consultants at the Valencia Wellness Center, and they suggest using coconut oil as a face wash and makeup remover, as well. This can help with acne, wrinkles, dry skin, eczema, sun spots and more, according to Blair, who is also manager of the center.

Gage also suggests using coconut for “oil pulling” to remove bacteria and improve dental health. To do so, swish a tablespoon of the oil in your mouth, spit it out (don’t swallow) and rinse thoroughly.

Turmeric

Using turmeric in your cooking or taking it as capsules can help with pain, inflammation and congestion, according to Martin, and you can also get it as a topical ointment to rub it into your sore joints.

Magnesium

According to Gage, magnesium is one of the minerals Americans are most depleted in and is constantly being depleted when we stress — mentally, physically and even chemically when we eat wrong.

Taking magnesium supplements can not only help healthwise, but can also lessen feelings of anxiety or depression, Gage said.

Epsom salt

Drinking warm or hot water (like a tea) with half a lemon daily can improve digestion and balance your body’s pH levels, according to Martin and Blair.

Wet socks

Diatomaceous earth, apple cider vinegar, essential oils, Epsom salt, bentonite clay and baking soda — the perfect ingredients for a detox bath. PHOTO COURTESY CRYSTAL BLAIR

minutes. When done, dry your feet thoroughly and do not rinse.

Thaik and Rush also suggest drinking a small amount of baking soda to relieve heartburn. Put 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon of aluminum-free baking soda in a shot glass, add just enough water to dissolve the baking soda and drink it. Then, refill the glass with just enough water to clean out the container and drink that.

Castor oil

Apply organic castor oil to sore or painful joints for pain relief, and according to Martin, applying it to any nodules or lumps you may have will also help dissolve them.

Castor oil can also be an easy fix for hair loss or help when hair is receding, according to Gage.

Apple cider vinegar

Drink a couple spoonfuls of apple cider vinegar with honey to improve immunity and help with the absorption and digestion of food or nutrients by the body, according to both Martin and Blair.

Mixing two tablespoons of apple cider vinegar with water and drinking it about 10 minutes before eating can also help with fat break down and weight loss, according to Thaik and Rush.

Taking a bath with epsom salt can be very soothing for colds and flus as it will help detox your body and can also help with pain and inflammation, Martin said.

Baking soda

Mixing baking soda with water and then washing your hair can help get rid of chemical build up and oils on your scalp and in your hair, according to Blair.

Holistic Healing Heart Center’s Dr. Cynthia Thaik, a cardiologist and integrative functional medicine doctor, and Dr. Barbara Rush, a naturopathic doctor, agree that baking soda can help cure athlete’s foot. Mix 1/2 cup of baking soda into a basin of warm water and soak your feet for 20

It may sound odd, but Blair suggests wetting a thin pair of socks with cold water (the colder the better), ringing them out gently and putting them on. Then, put a thicker pair of socks (preferably cotton) over the wet pair and keep them on overnight as you sleep.

According to Blair, because the bottom of your feet have pores, this helps your body detoxify by acting like a pulling agent, which can also help with congestion, a cold or flu, and insomnia.

And although there are a lot of things that can be used on their own, there are some great recipes that are easy to put together as well.

Sore throat or cough

Mix honey, lemon and a teaspoon of apple cider vinegar with warm or hot water (like a tea) to help with a sore throat and to break up mucus, according to Gage and Blair.

Martin, Thaik and Rush all agree that gargling can help with a sore or raspy throat. While Martin suggests gargling with salt water, Thaik and Rush suggest mixing 1/4 cup of apple cider vinegar and 1/4 cup of water and gargling for at least 30 seconds — both say they have seen great results.

Foot soak

Fill a large bowl with warm water, 1 cup of apple cider vinegar and 1 cup of Epsom salt. Soak your feet for about 20 minutes and pat dry. Then, lightly coat them with coconut oil and slip on some socks.

This will make your feet soft and clean, according to Thaik and Rush.

Detox bath

A detox bath can shorten the duration of a cold or flu, and you don’t need all the ingredients to make it effective, according to Gage and Blair.

Mix 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar, 1/2 cup Epsom salt, 1/2 cup diatomaceous earth, 1/4 cup baking soda, 1/4 cup bentonite clay in the tub and optionally add some essential oils like tea tree or lavender.

Make sure to mix well, then relax in the bath for 30 minutes. Afterward, rise with soap and water and be sure to hydrate so that your body can flush out toxins.

Itching

Hot water, trace mineral drops, apple cider vinegar, lemon and max-B ND. It’s great for digestion, energy, and alkalining and detoxifying the body. PHOTO COURTESY VALENCIA WELLNESS CENTER

Mix apple cider vinegar with water and apply to the itchy area with a clean cotton ball, then repeat as necessary, according to the experts.

Although these are all great home remedies, be sure to still go to your medical doctor to be certain your problem isn’t something more serious and in need of medical attention, Martin said. 

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A P R I L 14, 2019

LOCALNEWS

Declining enrollment puts pinch on districts statewide

By Caleb Lunetta Signal Staff Writer

C

alifornia’s Superintendent of Public Instruction Tony Thurmond announced the most recent enrollment data for public schools in the state, indicating Santa Clarita Valley school districts aren’t alone in dealing with declining enrollment numbers.

The reports indicate an overall 0.8 percent decline in K-12 public school student enrollment statewide over the past four years, from 6.2 million in 2014-15 to 6.19 million in 2018-19.

And, for public school districts, the decline in enrollment means a decline in average daily attendance (ADA) funding, the major backbone to most state funding for schools. For a district like the Saugus Union School District, one student in the district can account for $8,473.60 in ADA funding in the 2018-19 school year,

according to officials, and that money is critical to keeping teachers hired, and, therefore, class sizes down.

“Statewide enrollment has been declining while, over the long term, student-teacher ratios are much higher than they were maybe a generation ago,” said Troy Flint, a spokesman for the California School Boards Association. “And the matter isn’t entirely settled, but our students benefit from having more adults and instructors in the classroom.”

Flint added that having more teachers and aides in the classroom is not only connected to improving the education each student receives, but can also “properly add to the social and emotional health” of students.

And, just like everywhere else, the numbers of students in classroom seats is a growing concern for school districts throughout the Santa Clarita Valley.

Elected officials for SCV elementary school districts, such as Saugus Union, say they’ve felt the repercus-

sions of declining enrollment, drawing parental concern after moving the district’s average class sizes closer to the maximum allowable student ratio of 28:1 in their TK-to-third-grade classrooms (per the district’s recent agreement with its teachers union), and a 31:1 teacher-to-pupil ratio in their upper-grade classrooms.

Newhall School District officials have said they’re aware of the statewide trends, but that the district’s teacher-to-pupil ratio is not going up, and that the school board “has been committed to maintaining our current class sizes.”

“From what we understand up and down the state, class sizes are going up,” said Michelle Morse, NSD assistant superintendent of human resources. “However, in NSD, we remain at a districtwide average of no more than 24:1 in TK-third and no more than 30:1 districtwide average in fourth to sixth (grades).”

The Castaic Union School District

also says it expects to avoid increasing class sizes, but drops in enrollment do result in reductions in staffing.

“Our current enrollment numbers as of March 2019 (are) 2,044 total students, compared to 2,151 in 201718 and 2,241 in 2016-17,” said Stacy Dobbs, president of the Castaic Union School District governing board. “(Parents) can expect no changes in teacher-pupil ratios. We will reduce staffing as necessary to coincide with declining enrollment.”

CUSD’s agreement with its teachers association has maximum class sizes of 30 children allowed in TK-second, 32 allowed in third to fifth grades, and 33 allowed in sixth to eighth grades, Dobbs said.

But while the maximum, for instance, in the TK and kindergarten classes is 30, the district average is still 26 and 26.1 students, respectively, she said.

During their March 13 board meeting, Sulphur Springs Union See DISTRICT, page 33

A P R I L 14, 2019

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 9

LOCALNEWS

Westfield project set to include Costco, luxury cinema

By Tammy Murga Signal Staff Writer

W

estfield Valencia Town Center officials announced a $100 million investment Wednesday to add features including a new Costco, luxury cinema and fitness center, dramatically transforming the site of one of the mall’s original anchor stores.

The Patios Connection project is a redevelopment of the eastern portion of the property where the former Sears location, which closed a year ago, will transform into a larger building and center for these new amenities that aim to build on the mall’s vision of creating a one-stop destination for consumers.

“We believe the project speaks to the changing retail landscape and complements the center’s existing offerings by adding additional daily conveniences that allow families to shop, work out, run errands, be entertained and socialize all in one place,” said Corrine Barchanowicz, senior general manager of Westfield Valencia Town Center. “We are strategically investing in the center in new ways that create a diversified and elevated shopping and entertainment

experience.”

Mall officials Wednesday shared with The Signal renderings that depict the project’s core design, aimed at improving the center’s overall flow and connectivity.

The anchor of the project is the Santa Clarita Valley’s second Costco retail and gas station, which will be located on the lower level of the proposed new building, according to Chris Kitchen, vice president of development for Unibail-Rodamco-Westfield. This locale will be uniquely designed to seamlessly blend with the rest of the Valencia Town Center, officials said.

Kitchen said the idea to bring in a new Costco had been in the works long before Sears closed, with multiple properties as options, but the mall location flowed with a trend that’s evident across multiple Westfield locations, including The Village at Topanga, which also connects mall shoppers to a Costco.

“Costco is the new anchor today; it’s such a fundamental aspect of the shopping experience,” Kitchen said.

“With busy family and kids, getting your errands at multiple locations is a drag. What we tried to do with our properties and The Patios Connection is combine multiple anchors. In this

By the Numbers: The Patios Connection Development Project

$ What’s coming?

Costco Luxury cinema Gym 320-space parking lot n n n n

Construction

Revenue

n Expected to

n Projected to

create 900 jobs n Projected to create more than $180 million in economic benefit

create 486 jobs n Project expected to contribute more than $6 million in annual revenue to the city

n Total investment equals $100 million Source: Westfield Valencia Town Center

case it’s the luxury cinema, the fitness center and Costco so that you can come and do your errands, be entertained and work out all in one trip.”

To address a potential increase in traffic congestion that can come with the new development, Kitchen said officials have been working closely to evaluate reports with traffic engineers and the city of Santa Clarita.

A 320-space parking lot to mitigate parking congestion is also in the project plans.

The second floor of the Sears replacement building will house the cinema and the full-service health and fitness center to easily stream

into the shops and retail at The Patios level. Cinema and gym tenants are still in the works, said Kitchen, but patrons can expect an upscale setting.

“We’re bringing in a new theater and it’s going to be a higher-end cinema than anything we’ve seen in the Santa Clarita Valley today with large recliner seats (and) better food offering,” said Kitchen. “It’s not as large as the Edwards (theater) but we have seen and know that the market will support another theater.”

Much planning is still underway for the project, but officials estimate The Patios Connection development to be completed by mid- to late-2020. 

When Costco comes to the Santa Clarita Valley

By Perry Smith Signal Managing Editor

C From left: Chris Kitchen, vice president of development for Unibail-RodamcoWestfield, and Westfield Valencia Town Center Senior General Manager Corrine Barchanowicz discuss the renovation construction plans for the Patios Connection Development Project at Westfield Valencia Town Center. PHOTO BY DAN WATSON / THE SIGNAL

ostco first opened its doors in the Santa Clarita Valley in Canyon Country on May 1, 1992, at the Via Princessa location, and not long thereafter, a call went out for one on the west side of the valley.

It appears that Westfield and Costco are teaming up to make that request a reality and much, much more, with the announcement Wednesday of plans being submitted to the city’s planning department for a $100 million investment for the space that was occupied by Sears, next to where

Canyon Santa Clarita currently sits.

“Westfield submitted the application (Wednesday), but it still has a process to go through,” said Jason Crawford, manager of economic development for the city of Santa Clarita, adding that the plans would likely be reviewed by the Planning Commission at a public hearing before the end of the year.

“Adding in more movie theaters, potentially more restaurants, creating more additional parking for (Shops at) The Patios, I think, are all positives,” Crawford said. “We’ve heard for a long time that the community See COSTCO, page 33

10 · S U N D AYS I G N A L

A P R I L 14, 2019

LOCALNEWS

City approves $260k in aid Supes OK plan to link to help fight homelessness homeless people to jobs

By Tammy Murga Signal Staff Writer

T

he Santa Clarita City Council took a step forward Tuesday on the topic of homelessness after awarding contracts and grants totaling more than $260,000 to address the local issue.

Council members unanimously approved a contract with Los Angeles County that will allow the city to hire a homeless coordinator, as well as a one-time grant toward helping Bridge to Home hire a project manager and increase services as they shift to year-round operations.

The grant award for the homeless coordinator totals $112,500, and the city will have to match $37,500 to receive $75,000 in the quarter-cent sales tax Measure H funding. The designated person will help implement the city’s Community Plan to Address Homelessness, according to Jerrid McKenna, assistant to the city manager.

Bridge to Home locked in a total of $150,000 from the city’s general fund to hire a project manager tasked with the planning and design of the non

profit’s permanent, 365-day homeless shelter ($50,000) and to bulk up its local homeless services ($100,000).

“L.A. Family Housing is the coordinated entry system lead where a lot of the Measure H funding goes to and then comes to our service providers,” McKenna said during a presentation to the City Council.

“They already, in January or February, ran out of their allotment for the current fiscal year. So, Bridge to Home was not able to access any additional funding. This request will really fill that void.”

In looking back at some of the actions Santa Clarita has recently taken to address homelessness, including the establishment of a 30-member task force, Mayor Pro Tem Cameron Smyth said, “The further Santa Clarita stays ahead, the more opportunity we have to bring back those Measure H dollars to (the city).”

“It’s a reinforcement of how this city really is an example for others in the region on how to manage and how to come together to help those in our community to do it as a whole and not just the city, not just the county, not just nonprofits, but doing it together,” he added. 

Deputies arrest man suspected of wielding machete

By Jim Holt Signal Senior Staff Writer

D

eputies dining at a hamburger place in Valencia didn’t get a chance to finish their meal Tuesday when they were alerted about a man armed with a machete, seen waving it in the air near the restaurant.

Deputies with the Santa Clarita Valley Sheriff ’s Station were enjoying a meal at the Hook Burger restaurant on Magic Mountain Parkway, near McBean Parkway, where they received a dispatch about a man seen waving a machete, Lt. Andy Dahring said.

Deputies spotted a man who had been seen near the restaurant and matched the description, he said.

A 24-year-old man, described by the arresting deputies as an unemployed transient, was arrested on suspicion of carrying a concealed weapon, specifically, a dirk or dagger, a felony.

Deputies would not confirm how the suspect concealed the weapon.

The suspect was taken into custody with bail set at $20,000.

The Hook Burger manager said the suspect was spotted in the parking lot, which serves Target and a number of other stores. 

By Jim Holt Signal Senior Staff Writer

“This effort will provide employment opportunities to help curb ounty supervisors have ap- the inflow into homelessness and proved a plan to put more help other individuals exit cycles of jobs and money within homelessness for good,” Barger said reach of the homeless.

Tuesday.

The Los Angeles County Board Nearly half (46 percent) of the of Supervisors voted unanimously 9,205 people experiencing homethis week in favor of a motion put lessness for the first time said it was forward by Supervisors Kathryn due to a loss of employment or other Barger and Sheila Kuehl directing financial reason, according to the Los the county’s chief executive office Angeles Homeless Services Authorito work with the United Way ty’s 2018 Homeof Greater Los less Count data.

“MANY CURRENTLY Angeles, which In addition to would administer HOMELESS FAMILIES establishing the a special fund Employment earmarked for the AND INDIVIDUALS, IF Innovation project called the Fund, the county PROVIDED SUPPORT, Homeless Emis expected ployment InnovaHAVE THE ABILITY TO to work with tion Fund. local experts and “The county has INCREASE THEIR INresearch collecbeen successful tives, such as the COME TO THE POINT in our efforts to Homelessness connect highly WHERE THEY WILL acute individPolicy Research uals to benefits Institute, to deBE ABLE TO RETAIN through Measure sign, implement THEIR HOUSING INH-funded strateand measure gies, but there are pilot programs DEPENDENTLY IN THE portions of the based on localhomeless populaFUTURE.” ized solutions tion who simply to employing need a hand-up to -Kathryn Barger homeless inreconnect to jobs dividuals and and housing,” Barger said Tuesday. families in their area.

The money would go to providers In documents prepared by Barger and job centers that have a proven and Kuehl explaining the employtrack record of successfully connecting individuals to employment ment initiative to their fellow suopportunities. pervisors, they said “many currently Via funds made available through homeless families and individuals, Measure H, stipends would be given if provided support, have the ability to homeless people who participate to increase their income to the point in “high-performing intensive vocawhere they will be able to retain their tional training programs.” housing independently in the future.

The plan calls on research to be “Empowering a high percentage of done identifying county programs homeless adults to ultimately reach proven to be successful. income levels that will support indeThe motion states: “Resources distributed through this Employment pendent housing retention is essential to ending the crisis of homelessness Innovative Fund will be awarded based on existing performance data.” in L.A. County,” they wrote. 

C

A P R I L 14, 2019

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 11

BUSINESS

City’s 1st female building inspector blazes trail

Jennifer Turcios gets technical with the plans for one of the developments underway in the area. PHOTO BY TAMMY MURGA / THE SIGNAL

By Tammy Murga Signal Staff Writer

B

y 4:30 a.m., Jennifer Turcios is tending to her four children, making sure all their snacks, homework and after-school materials are packed for another day.

Just a couple hours later, the young mother is out climbing onto rooftops, examining through webbed, giant rebars and watching as colossal cranes pull together the walls that make up some of Santa Clarita’s massive developments.

After seven years as a full-time mom, Turcios joined the city of Santa Clarita in November as a building inspector — and the city’s first woman building inspector.

Her children may think of her as “supermom,” but she simply describes herself as “a go-getter, a self-starter.”

“I always have a need to grow and to learn more,” said Turcios, who has a background in city planning.

“I liked to see developments from inception to the end result. I said to myself, ‘That would be fantastic, but I would have to return to school.’”

That’s how she started. As a building inspection student at College of the Canyons, Turcios and two other students were selected in the summer of 2017 to ride along for inspections and receive hands-on experience with planchecks and building codes with the city.

After several late nights of studying, completing her internship, raising her

kids and being an active member in the community, Turcios found a job opening with the city, and — much like her personality — dove right in to apply without hesitation.

Supervising Building Inspector Chuck Strong said he and the department were excited to see Turcios’ name in the list of applicants. She has what it takes to succeed in a field they call “challenging” and “ever-changing.”

“She stood out,” said Strong. “I had never been a supervisor of a female inspector before so that’s kind of a whole new ball game for us. But I could see from the beginning that she had what it takes to become an inspector.

“There’s so much to see and so much to know. You have a 5-foot pile of codebooks and every three years, there’s changes. It’s intense, but she had the aptitude, the ability, the vision and a great personality to fit the city’s philosophy.”

These were just some of the many qualities Strong and Senior Building Inspector Bill Cook said of Strong. But Turcios said just like being a mother, the job requires that “you think on your toes, be a very proactive person and be able to use all your resources.

You have to make judgment calls.”

While some may consider being a woman — let alone the first — in a male-dominated field intimidating or challenging, Turcios just thinks of herself as “one of the guys,” she said.

See INSPECTOR, page 33

12 · S U N D AYS I G N A L

A P R I L 14, 2019

LOCALNEWS

Newhall Aquarium entertains, educates

By Matt Fernandez Signal Staff Writer

S

hane Price was looking for something fun to do with his daughters in Santa Clarita when he discovered the Newhall Aquarium on Google.

“It’s nice having a local aquarium to go to, so I can show my children different sea animals without having to drive out to somewhere like Long Beach,” Price said. “I’ve always enjoyed the ocean, and I scuba dive, so this is a great way to let my daughters experience these creatures up close until they’re old enough to do that.”

Tony Taymourian opened the Newhall Aquarium in 2015. Taymourian has a degree in marine biology from the University of California, Santa Barbara, and had worked at aquariums of various sizes as a way for him to professionally make use of his degree. Taymourian then worked at a company that built and maintained aquariums, where he learned more about how to keep the fish alive in captivity, and he eventually started his own aquarium company.

He needed a place where he could store the fish for the aquariums he made and found a small building in Newhall. Family and friends suggested that instead of just using the space as storage he open a fish store, but he couldn’t bring himself to do it. Slowly, he began to assemble multiple fish tanks, many from his own house, and purchased different kinds of fish and eventually Taymourian opened the Newhall Aquarium to the public.

“I got attached to the fish here, and I didn’t want to sell them to people if I didn’t know they were going to take care of the fish and they wouldn’t survive,” Taymourian said. “I had always wanted to have an aquarium, and I think that it’s a good resource for Santa Clarita, because I think educational institutions are what communities like this need.”

Due to funding restrictions and running his other business, the aquarium is only open to the public on the weekend. On weekdays, the aquarium runs an educational outreach program and often goes to schools in Santa Clarita and the surrounding Los Angeles areas, but

Taymourian doesn’t like to go too far because of the difficulty of transporting the fish and the stress that travel puts on them.

The aquarium is home to about 100 species of tropical marine life including eels, sharks, seahorses and starfish. Many of the other aquariums in Los Angeles house cold water fish that are native to California’s coastline, but Taymourian said having tropical fish makes his aquarium unique and helps keep the cost down.

“Cold water fish require a lot of special equipment, and they’re harder to take care of, and besides, the tropical fish are much more colorful and fun to look at,” he said. “Some people are disappointed with how small we are, but I like how intimate it is and that we’re able to have more one-onone interaction with the guests and the animals. Most people are very excited when they come in.”

Julia Grothe has been a docent at the aquarium for four months and said she wished she had discovered the aquarium sooner and had visited it more often.

“I love working with the animals, and it’s so amazing to be able to care for them and to learn their different personalities,” Grothe said. “But, really, one of my favorite parts of this that surprised me was I really enjoy working with the public and the kids.

It’s really important to instill an interest and appreciation for nature so that they’ll respect it and care for it.”

Omar Ruvalcaba also brought his daughter to the aquarium after he discovered it on Yelp.com while looking for a place where he could expose his daughter to different

Newhall Aquarium docent Julia Grothe, left, helps teach some young visitors about sea stars at the aquarium’s touch tank. PHOTO BY MATT FERNANDEZ / THE SIGNAL

kinds of animals.

“When you think of Santa Clarita, you don’t really think of fish and aquariums, so having this aquarium is a great resource, especially when the people here are knowledgeable and can answer my daughter’s questions,” he said. “Usually, you only see fish on a plate and when you swim in the ocean you never really see what’s below you. Things like eels just seem so alien, so I think there’s a real fascination for learning about the different kinds of animals we share the planet with.”

The aquarium’s biggest challenge is attracting visitors. Since advertising is expensive, Taymourian started an Instagram account and uses Google Maps to get the word out.

Taymourian is already working on a

new deep sea exhibit and acquiring jelly fish and an octopus, but if he is able to grow interest and attendance, he would like to expand to a bigger venue and put in more tanks.

“I can’t ever see myself not having this aquarium,” Taymourian said.

“Even if things don’t work out like I plan, I’ll still find a way to make it work and stick with this. There’s nothing about this that I can see in a negative light that would make me want to walk away.”  The Newhall Aquarium is located at 24631 Arch St. It’s open Saturdays and Sundays 3-5 p.m. or during the week by appointment. A $5 donation per person is suggested. Reservations can be made through the organization’s Facebook page: facebook.com/new hallaquarium.

City set to bring back Ring subsidy program

By Signal Staff

A

s part of a plan to drive crime down, residents will once again have an opportunity to purchase home security devices at a discounted price, the city of Santa Clarita announced Tuesday.

The city is renewing its partnership with Ring, a product line of security technology focused on mitigating crime in neighborhoods, after a

successful first rebate program last summer.

Through funds appropriated by the city and matching funds from Ring, the $50,000 program will allow 500 verified Santa Claritans to receive a $100 subsidy code to use toward the company’s security devices.

“The city of Santa Clarita is consistently ranked as one of the safest places to live and raise a family,” said city Communications Manager Carrie Lujan. “This program allows residents

to get a discount on the Ring video doorbells and other security items, which will give them an extra peace of mind knowing their homes and families are safe. This program was very popular when we did it last summer, and we are happy to be able to partner with Ring to make it happen again.”

The subsidy program is set to take place at an event from 6-8 p.m. on April 18 at the Old Town Newhall Library, where those interested in learning more

See RING, page 33

A P R I L 14, 2019

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 13

FROM THE CITY MANAGER

Teamwork helped halt CEMEX

By Ken Striplin City Manager

O

f all the potential threats our community has faced in our more than three decades of cityhood, none would have been as detrimental to our way of life as the CEMEX mine in Soledad Canyon. In the late 1990s, our community rallied together to prevent the siting of a 56-million-ton mining and cement-processing project, within a 5-mile radius of homes, schools and parks.

City and community leaders expressed deep concern regarding future damage to local air quality, a significant increase in traffic on roads and freeways and the visual blight, if the proposed mine moved forward.

Looking back at some of the City’s earliest notes of opposition to the project, it is easy to see why so many people put forth the effort to oppose it. These are just a few of the reasons from a document written in 2006:

• The CEMEX project will add 600 more big trucks, making up to 1,200 trips a day, to our already overloaded local roadways and freeways.

• The CEMEX project will cause a significant amount of dust or particulate matter to be released into the air.

• CEMEX plans to blast, excavate, crush, screen and process rock materials from 5 a.m. to 10 p.m., Monday through Saturday, every week of every month, every year for 20 years.

• The CEMEX project will result in the removal of a significant 50-foot ridgeline, as a result of mining.

• The CEMEX project will undoubtedly result in negative effects to local real estate values and discourage clean businesses from remaining in the area.

• This major mining project is located within easy proximity of more than 500,000 people, including many children and the elderly, who suffer from breathing and lung problems.

• The CEMEX project will result in the largest aggregate mine ever permitted by the Federal Bureau of Land Management, dubbing Santa Clarita a “major mining site.”

An amazing collaborative force was born from the need to stop these things from happening, and protect the high quality of life we enjoy in Santa Clarita. Local community organizations, our school districts, the Sierra Club, Safe Action for the Environment, neighborhood groups and so many more people were united by the cause. The City hosted rallies, councilmembers made dozens of trips to Washington D.C. to advocate for our community, several pieces of legislation were crafted by our elected officials and City staff worked diligently for years to find a way to stop the proposed mining.

I am thrilled to say that this cohesive and collaborative effort has finally paid off. The City is calling it a win on the battle against CEMEX. On March 20, the Interior Board of Land Appeals settled upon a decision that will result in CEMEX mining rights expiring in July 2020. There are no options to get their contracts extended and no options for new contracts to be issued. This is the outcome that many, many people spent many, many years working towards.

Although this is good news — we will remain vigilant and continue to closely monitor the issue until the contract has officially expired. We would not have reached this point without our city council’s leadership and resolve to stay with the fight and never give up. I want to offer my deepest gratitude to all of those who I have worked alongside to reach this outcome. Our elected officials, organizations, residents and of course, our dedicated City staff.

To all of you who took part in opposing the CEMEX mine in Soledad Canyon — I want to say congratulations and thank you. Our community’s devotion to protecting our environment is the driving force behind this outcome and the force that will protect Santa Clarita for future generations to come.  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.

14 · S U N D AYS I G N A L

A P R I L 14, 2019

SPORTS

Lacrosse sees big push in Santa Clarita

By Haley Sawyer Signal Sports editor

H

art boys lacrosse coach Tony Uebelhardt remembers the first time he watched a college lacrosse game on television. He was flipping through the channels in search of a sport to watch to get a break from the usual baseball.

“Some of the college lacrosse teams, they’ve got athletes,” he said.

“Some of these kids are humongous and others are normal 5-foot-8 kids.”

Little did Uebelhardt know, he would be coaching the first-ever Hart boys lacrosse team a few years later.

Lacrosse is one of the newest sports in the Santa Clarita Valley, but there’s certainly an abundance of interest in it.

Five years ago, when Hart first implemented a boys lacrosse team, Uebelhardt had no difficulties filling a roster. The combination of finesse like that of basketball and physicality like the of football was appealing to Hart students.

Uebelhardt, who also was an assistant coach for the football team at the time, recalls having around 50 students interested in signing up for the first team.

“My first three years of it, I pulled a lot of those football kids to come play lacrosse to try it out, to see if they liked it and that kept on going for a couple years,” he said.

“I think this year is pretty much the first year where we only have four, five football players on the lacrosse team.

One basketball kid, but other than that they’re all strictly lacrosse kids. I think it’s going to be that way for the coming years.”

West Ranch girls lacrosse coach Leesa Chelminiak had a similar experience in terms of finding athletes when starting up the Wildcats’ team in 2014. At an open house, she had nearly 60 girls show interest in being a part of the team.

The students had a broad experience in athletics as well. Volleyball, soccer and basketball players all showed up in addition to dancers and members of color guard. But when they were all on the field to-

Valencia’s Preston Trujillo is pressured by Hart’s Kyle Wiggins in a Foothill League game at Hart High School. PHOTO BY HALEY SAWYER / THE SIGNAL

gether, the team somehow fit together perfectly.

“Each girl and their experience brought something new to the team,” Chelminiak said. “Like for example, our volleyball players were phenomenal at the draw. They had that ability to jump. same was true with basketball. Also, our defense is very similar

E

to basketball’s defense.”

While finding athletes isn’t a challenge, starting a lacrosse team from a financial standpoint can be. In addition to convincing administration that the school should have a lacrosse team, potential team staff and players must fundraise operating costs for an entire season one year in advance

The growth of lacrosse

ach year, the U.S. Lacrosse Participation Report is produced by U.S. Lacrosse to keep an eye on the sport’s growth.

“Lacrosse has been the fastestgrowing team sport in the nation at the high school level for at least the last two decades,” according to the report by U.S. Lacrosse.

Lacrosse has been one of the fastest-growing team sports at the country at all levels.

The report reflects the widespread popularity of youth lacrosse across the country: “For the fourth consecutive year, there 14 states (California, Colorado, Connecticut, Florida, Georgia, Maryland, Massachusetts, Minnesota, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Texas and Virginia) with at least 10,000 participants at the

youth level and several other states, including Illinois, Utah, Washington and Wisconsin, closing in on the threshold.”

Over the last half-decade or so, high school boys’ lacrosse programs increased by 24 percent and high school girls’ lacrosse programs rose 28 percent, nationwide. The numbers also indicate an 80-percent growth over 10 years.

U.S. Lacrosse, perhaps reflecting the sport’s relatively recent and rapid growth, has been around since 1998. “The body plays a central role in the rapid growth of the sport throughout the United States and abroad. US Lacrosse currently serves nearly 450,000 members in communities across the nation,” according to its website. 

before getting approval.

That number can hover around $20,000. It seemed daunting for the few determined people who wanted a Saugus lacrosse team.

“It was a pretty small group,” Saugus boys lacrosse coach David Steinman said. “We all were having our kids were playing Blackhawks lacrosse. I was president of the board for that. I brought a lot of kids over to lacrosse and they were all going to go to Saugus and there was no lacrosse there.”

Eight families met at Vincenzo’s pizza to discuss fundraising options.

A corn hole tournament, poker night and a few corporate sponsorships later, a Centurion lacrosse program of 55 families was going strong.

With four boys lacrosse programs in the SCV — Hart, Saugus, Valencia and West Ranch — a Foothill League has formed for the sport, easing travel costs and creating rivalries within the SCV. There is no Foothill League for girls lacrosse, but West Ranch is a member of the Pacific Lacrosse League, which also includes Crescenta Valley, Glendale, Westridge and La Canada.

Chelminiak is happy with the league but thinks that a Foothill League for girls lacrosse would enhance the sense of competition.

“Just to be able to have that rivalry feeling of teams in the area and be able to know where we stand in the league and how the girls compete,” she said.

For athletes interested in playing lacrosse, the best time to start is now.

“It’s the best sport to start at any age,” Steinman said. “The Blackhawks run a great program for the youth and then they can come into high school and play and if they’re just starting out in high school, most of the JV kids are all brand new to the sport.

“They don’t ever go back. These kids always fall in love with lacrosse and that’s where they want to stay.” 

A P R I L 14, 2019

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 15

WORSHIP

Explore the true meaning of Easter

B

unnies and baskets, chocolates and candies. It’s that time of year when parents scramble to ensure their children wake up to a trove of treats, and families decide on who is serving the lamb dinner this year.

These are some of the familiar Easter traditions, but much more is involved with the holiday than egg hunts and brightly adorned bonnets.

For the religious, it can be important to delve into the true meanings behind Easter, and let those discoveries help shape celebrations.

Easter, above all, is a religious commemoration of the resurrection of Jesus Christ. It is the culmination of the holy period known as Lent, and it the most significant date on the Christian liturgical calendar.

Jesus Christ was the Son of God, who fulfilled the prophesies that he would give his own life for his people so they could enjoy eternal life after their own mortal bodies perished.

Easter, from Jesus’ very own words, marked a new covenant for the faithful.

According to scripture, Jesus was enjoying the Passover dinner when he sat down with his disciples. Understanding that this would be his last earthly meal and that someone close to him would betray him, he took bread and gave thanks to God for it.

He broke the bread and said it was his body that should be given up so sins would be forgiven. He did a similar gesture with wine, indicating that it was his blood that should be shed as a sacrifice for all. Christ instructed the disciples to do the same ritual in the future in memory of him.

Jesus was subsequently betrayed and turned over to the authorities.

He was sentenced to crucifixion and perished on the cross.

His body was cleansed and placed in a tomb sealed by a stone. His followers were unaware of the miracle that would ensue in the days to come.

Christians celebrate several days of the week leading up to Easter Sunday.

Some celebrate more and others less.

is told that Jesus arrived humbly on a donkey and townspeople placed clothes, branches and palm fronds in front of Him.

Holy Thursday

This is the evening of the Passover dinner, when Jesus dined with His disciples at The Last Supper.

Good Friday

According to scripture, Pontius Pilate bowed to the pressure of the Temple leadership and the crowds, condemning Jesus to death by crucifixion.

Christ was forced to parade through crowds wearing a crown of thorns. He carried a massive wooden cross on his back. He was nailed to the cross by the ankles and wrists, and hanged for 3 hours. He died at 3 p.m. His body was hastily removed and put in a tomb.

Easter Sunday

On Easter Sunday, the tomb was discovered open and empty. Jesus had risen from the dead, providing proof that he was the Son of God. In turn, Jesus fulfilled all He was born to do and preached.

Easter did not always symbolize Christ’s resurrection when it was first celebrated. It was once a pagan ritual of renewal and birth. However, when early missionaries began spreading Christianity’s message, the holiday — falling around the time of Christ’s actual resurrection — was adopted to commemorate the religious miracle.

Today it stands as a testament to ultimate sacrifice and the promise of eternal life for all who believe in him. 

Church Listing Calvary Lutheran Church 19554 Calla Way Santa Clarita, CA 91351 (661) 252-2697

Saint Kateri Tekakwitha Catholic Church 22508 Copper Hill Dr Santa Clarita, CA 91350 (661) 296-3180

First Presbyterian Church 24317 Newhall Ave Newhall, CA 91321 (661) 259-0555

South Hills Church 25222 Wiley Canyon Rd Santa Clarita, CA 91321 (661) 259-4366

Hope Vineyard Church 19059 Vicci St Santa Clarita, CA 91351 (661) 251-8340 Newhall Church of the Nazarene 23857 The Old Rd Newhall, CA 91321 (661) 259-5272 Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church 23233 Lyons Ave Santa Clarita, CA 91321 (661) 259-2276

St. Clare of Assisi Church 19606 Calla Way Canyon Country, CA 91351 (661) 252-3353 St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church 24901 Orchard Village Rd Valencia, CA 91355 (661) 259-7307 Valencia United Methodist Church 25718 McBean Pkwy Santa Clarita, CA 91355 (661) 255-1301

All are welcome. All means all.

Really April 21, 8:30 - 9:45* - 11:00* *Children’s activities

Palm Sunday

Palm Sunday recalls Christ’s arrival in Jerusalem when he was received with lavish praise and excitement. It

Valencia United Methodist Church ~ 25718 McBean Pkwy, Valencia, CA 91355 umcv.org ~ 661.255.1301 ~ Valencia UMC

16 · S U N D AYS I G N A L

A P R I L 14, 2019

TIMERANGER

Beatles, Bowlers & Bombers Visit SCV

S

orry to wake you. That’s me down here, yodeling. Just trying to get your attention.

Time to stumble down from your gated communities, condos, townhouses and the rare regular house and climb aboard a fetching pony.

We’re off on another journey into the backroads of Santa Clarita history, amigos and amigo-ettes.

There’s an entire passel of lore to explore — from bad jogging demonstrations to buses for sex addicts.

Shall we mosey into yesteryear?

WAY BACK WHEN & THEN SOME

It was originally called the Tollfree Café and it opened 120 years ago this week. This gets confusing, so pay attention. The Saugus Train Station (which sits in Newhall today at Heritage Junction inside Hart Park) used to sit right across the street from where the Saugus Café is today. It was called the Newhall Train Depot in those early years. The town of Newhall originally sat in Saugus, and they moved the whole community 2 miles south to its present location in the late 1870s. The Tollfree Café, which was inside the train depot, changed its name to the Saugus Café.

Around 1906, it moved across the street to essentially its location today.

Joke goes that there’s someone from the 1890s sitting at the counter there today, still waiting for Gail to come up with that refill. Except for a few short stints, including during World War II, the coffee shop had been open 24 hours a day for a century. A few years back, it stopped being a 24-hour eatery. Bummer for me …

APRIL 14, 1919

• Bang for the buck … er nickel Carl Sischo got the most for his advertising dollar. Well. Advertising nickel. Carl would place three ads in The Mighty Signal each week in the classified section. It was just a nickel a line and Carl always made sure his ad was never longer than one line. Example: “See Carl for Insurance.” With just 500 people in Newhall, everyone knew who Carl was.

• George come home George Frew wrote a letter home from France, describing World War I. He told of bloody assaults where the French lost

ranches in Placerita Canyon. Only about 200 cattle were branded but nearly 300 showed up for the barbecue.

APRIL 14, 1949

several thousand men on an attack on some Germans. George also wrote: “You might as well send my trunk and I’ll get married and settle down.

I’ve been here so long now that I’m beginning to forget that I was ever civilized.” That sure settles the bet which is more aesthetically pleasing — France or Newhall.

• Horse hell in the Army George’s brother, Tom, our local blacksmith, wasn’t having much fun, either. Tom (our dear saddlepal Tom Frew’s dad) enlisted to get out of Newhall where he spent 12 hours a day shoeing horses. He joined the Army and what did they have him doing to serve his country? That’s right. Shoe horses.

Oddly enough, the day George’s letter came home, Tom was honorably discharged.

APRIL 14, 1929

• A vital moment in herstory A day I always mark on my calendar — on this date, the Saugus Community Jr. Women’s Club was organized. What, exactly, is a Jr. Woman and is that organized by age, height, weight or IQ? • The dam bombers The Los Angeles Fire Department used World War I munitions to blow up the remnants of the St. Francis Dam. Huge explosions rocked the valley after the firemen closed two huge tunnels 20-feet wide leading into the former structure.

APRIL 14, 1939

• Market pool supply On this date, we held the grand opening of the new Safeway market on today’s Main Street. It later became a few other grocery stores and today, it’s Leslie’s Pools.

• Think of it as a Caltrans cattle drive Every spring, for 70 years, one of the big social events in the SCV was the roundup at the Mitchell-Nadeau

• Post traumatic jogging syndrome Ara Zakarian survived three years of fighting in World War II but somehow hadn’t mastered running.

Zakarian was enjoying a run through the hills by Weldon Canyon when he came to the edge of a cliff and forgot to put on the brakes. He fell, breaking both wrists, both arms and busting up his head. He managed to tumble to Highway 99 where he was picked up, lying on the side of the road.

APRIL 14, 1959

• Think Disney would sell today at the same price? Walt Disney plumped down $300,000 and bought the 315-acre Golden Oak Ranch in Placerita Canyon. A chap by the name of Lloyd Earl, president of the United Concrete Pipe Corp. in Baldwin Park, had owned the acreage prior.

• Kill to have a Duesenberg The Newhall-Saugus Classic Car Club was showing off their vintage Duesenbergs, Packards and Cadillacs.

APRIL 14, 1969

• Loveless in SClarita Los Angeles disc jockey Dick Whittington surprised local residents by volunteering our valley for a love-in. Whittington offered to bus in hundreds of bachelors and single women to meet and mate. Whittington got the idea after reading a Signal story lamenting that there were no places for singles to meet in the SCV. Dick’s buses, by the by, never rolled.

• We all live in one On this date, The Beatles’ animated film, “The Yellow Submarine,” debuted at the old Mustang Drive-in Theater on Soledad Canyon Road in Honby. I’m going to stop describing to you newer people where Honby is. Learn where it is, memorize it, live it …

APRIL 14, 1979

• Drugs? Condos? No parenting? It used to be that school vandalism was a rare thing. But local school districts started reporting more and more acts of destruction and theft. So far, in the two semesters of the 1978-79 school year, punks had slashed 54 bus tires, stole tens of thousands of tools and

equipment, broken dozens of windows and doors and set Canyon High on fire. They also set Cedarcreek Elementary School on fire, causing $50,000 in damage. And this was before graffiti. We also never had armed sheriff ’s deputies on our middle and high school campuses …

• They used it in the movie ‘Rocky’ Newhall man and Panaflex engineer Jack Barber received an Academy Award 40 years ago for co-designing the first lightweight, hand-held film camera complete with stabilizers and gyros.

• And now it’s extinct A newfangled invention was catching on locally.

Only problem — there was hardly any place to buy one. You folks today call it a VCR. • I laughed. I cried. Tim “Otter” Matheson of “Caddyshack” fame, Jack Warden and Susan Blakely in an actual tube top were on hand for the world premier at the Plaza Theatre for a movie entitled: “Dreamer.”

Matheson played the role of local Saugus professional bowler, Tim Roderick, who, coincidentally, just bowled a perfect 300 game at Newhall Bowl (Valencia Lanes today) a few weeks before the premier.

• Local girl makes good On this date, a somber Hart High co-ed posed for a photo in The Mighty Signal. Margaret Meyers took third place in the Bank of America’s high school Achievement Awards and with it, $75 toward her college education.

Some of you might know Margaret by her stage name of Dee Dee Meyers — former press secretary to President William Jefferson Clinton.

Thanks for the company, dear saddlepals. I vote we get together and head out for another trailride through SCV history. What do you think? Next Sunday? Until then, Obedece su HOAs y vayan con Dios … (Obey your HOAs and ride with God…)  John Boston has been writing about SCV history for more than 40 years.

Read his historical tome, “Images of America: The Santa Clarita Valley” on Amazon.com. Check out his History of The Mighty Signal series on Saturdays on A1.

1 7 · S U N D AY S I G N A L

Opinion

A P R I L 14, 2019

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

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

OURVIEW

On the Importance of City, County, Bridge to Home Part of an Evolution Discipline in Society

By The Signal Editorial Board

B

ack in 1994, when the Interfaith Council proposed the establishment of a homeless shelter, there was quite a backlash in the community.

There were those, including the religious organizations that participated in the Interfaith Council, who recognized the plight of local homeless individuals and families and sought to provide them a safe place to take shelter during cold winter nights.

At the time, the City Council was not very interested in participating, and many residents in the community objected to the very idea of a shelter.

The divide led then-Signal cartoonist Randy Wicks to draw a cartoon with two panels: One depicted the shower and laundry for the homeless offered by the Interfaith Council — showing a homeless person having an opportunity to clean up — and the second panel depicted the “shower and laundry for homeless offered by the City Council.” It showed a homeless person, out in the rain, with a bar of soap being tossed toward him.

How things have changed. On the one hand, as our valley has grown so

By David Hegg

has the need for homeless services.

But on the other hand, as our valley has grown, so has the recognition that it’s important to do what we can to help those who need it.

Make no mistake: Most homeowners would still rather not see a homeless shelter built right in their neighborhood. But there’s a general sense in the community that helping the homeless is part of what we should be doing for those less fortunate or who have fallen on hard times.

Now, there’s a nonprofit organization called Bridge to Home that is dedicated entirely to helping the local homeless population. Bridge to Home operates a seasonal shelter, and has plans to develop a full-time yearround shelter, with cooperation from not only the city of Santa Clarita but also Los Angeles County.

On Thursday, Bridge to Home held a press conference to thank the county and the city for their respecSee OUR VIEW, page 19

S

omeone has said “you will always have time to do the things you really need to do.” I’m not sure that is always accurate, but I do appreciate the underlying sentiment. Too often we buy the myth that we need more time when actually we just need to be more disciplined with the time we have.

Years ago, when I was employed in the financial industry, I was charged to teach a time management class for our managerial staff. I doubt many of those who attended learned much that was new, but we did agree on some basic truths that all too often we push to the backwoods of our minds. The first was this: Everyone in the world has the same amount of time. As a result, time is one of the most valuable resources we have simply because it is limited in supply. No matter how wealthy you may be, you can never buy more time.

You can’t get more of it. You can only work to make the most of it.

The key to making the most of our time is discipline. By this I mean the harnessing of our will by our mind so

our energies are directed toward that which is most important. Of course, this also means first exercising the discipline of planning so we can accurately assess just what is most important. And, moving backwards still further, this will mean having in mind what the end goal is, so we can determine what will make certain tasks important in the first place.

In the field of architecture there is a well-known dictum: form follows function. That means before you decide on the form of the building you should determine what function it needs to accomplish. The same rings true for deciding just how to parcel out your time and energy. First decide what needs to be accomplished; then determine how best to accomplish it; and finally discipline yourself so your energies are directed at getting the right things done.

Of course, this all seems so simple, so logical, so easily agreed to, at least in my mind. That’s why it is such a wonder that too often our nationally elected officials appear to be completeSee HEGG, page 19

READERLETTERS

Were Hill’s Actions Predictable?

Rep. Katie Hill is taking credit for the things that former Rep. Steve Knight worked so hard on for so many years. I think House Speaker Nancy Pelosi now has her in lockstep. She did not condemn Rep. Ilhan Omar's hateful rhetoric against Jews. We reap what we sow.

Kay Vestal, Canyon Country

Will the Real Jonathan Kraut Please Stand Up? What the…? For years I’ve been reading Jonathan Kraut’s columns on the opinion page of The Mighty Signal. For years I’ve been wondering how one guy could be so wrong on so many issues. Suddenly, I see a column written under

that name entitled “We Need Rules, but Which Would You Change?” and I’m wondering what’s going on, because I find myself nodding along with just about everything in that particular column.

Is there another “Jonathan Kraut” in our valley? But no, the bio at the end of the column matches the one at the end of every other column written under that byline. Is that the sign post up ahead, and we’ve entered the Twilight Zone?

Has the Invasion of the Body Snatchers finally happened? If “a conservative is a liberal who’s been mugged,” did someone beat the snot out of him? Did I wake up this morning in some alternative universe?

Whatever happened, I was beyond surprised to read what he’d written. Why, that’s a column I could have written myself! Is this the part where we welcome him into the warm embrace of conservatism?

See LETTERS, page 19

A P R I L 14, 2019

S U N D AY S I G N A L · 1 8

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

L E G I S L AT I V E V O I C E S

Let's Go, Cal State Long Beach Giraffes!

VLF Bill: Government Working for You

By Tim Whyte Signal Editor

L

ook hard enough, and pretty much anywhere you can find something to offend you.

Case in point: Long Beach State University is in the midst of choosing a new sports team name and mascot.

Why? Because the previous moniker and mascot — the 49ers and Prospector Pete — were deemed to be offensive representations of the oppression of native populations during the gold rush era.

I am not making this up.

Last year, in response to long-running student objections — because that’s what students do, they object to stuff — Cal State Long Beach dropped the prospector and the 49er moniker.

They actually considered calling themselves the 1949ers because that’s the inoffensive year in which the campus was founded.

And, it was decided that a campus statue of the fictional Prospector Pete would be moved from a busy campus plaza to a less prominent location.

I’m betting there was an open broom closet somewhere...

Meanwhile, this week the university released the list of new mascot names being voted upon after suggestions from the student body. They include: • Kraken (mythical sea monster) • Pelicans • Sharks • Stingrays • Giraffes • Go Beach (essentially a non-mascot) Not to be repetitive but I am not making this up. Yes, “Kraken,” “Giraffes” and “Go Beach” really made the list.

Weird. Snowflakes didn’t.

The rest of the names are OK, I suppose. I think I’d go Stingrays if you forced me to pick but that’s not the point.

Hold the phone. I just hatched an idea. Let’s have a little fun with Cal State Long Beach. Everyone go to www.asicsulb. org/mascotsearch/ and vote for Giraffes as your top choice. It would be an absolute HOOT if the Cal State Long Beach Giraffes became an actual thing.

Go on. I’ll wait.

Welcome back.

Anyway, while I certainly understand that the U.S. settlement/conquering/theft of the West was fraught with violence, misdeeds, disease and oppression, I think it’s over the top to try to wipe out every last symbol of the time period and its history. The 49ers?

Really? So now it’s even offensive to make reference to settlers who came West in an often misguided and futile pursuit of riches?

Yes, many of them — not all — did awful things. And the toll that westward U.S. expansion took on native populations was very real. But folks are digging way too deep in their pursuit of righteous indignation.

Yikes. It just occurred to me: They are letting kids pan for gold out at the Santa Clarita Cowboy Festival this weekend. Hopefully no one gets offended...

This is an offshoot of the national movement to eradicate sports names that offend anyone, anywhere. Often the names are referring to indigenous peoples, and some are clearly racist or offensive, while others, not so much.

There’s definitely a continuum. For example, it’s a lot harder to defend the Washington Redskins name than it is to defend the Chicago Blackhawks.

See WHYTE, page 19

By Christy Smith Assemblywoman

A

t the core of good governance is efficiency and collaboration. What I’ve found during my years in public service is that elected officials across all levels of government sometimes operate in silos. We deliver for our communities and produce meaningful work, but think of what we can accomplish if we put our heads together and partner on problem solving.

This idea is the backbone behind my joint-authorship of Assembly Bill 213 with my colleague and friend Assemblywoman Eloise Gómez Reyes.

This bill would revise the formula for allocating vehicle license fee (VLF) amounts to restore revenues to cities that have annexed developed areas like Santa Clarita. In 2011, funds were stripped away from cities across California following the passage of Senate Bill 89. The city of Santa Clarita lost approximately $390,000 in VLF revenues as a result of this bill.

AB 213 would fix the formula, returning tax dollars to cities and restoring taxpayer resources. In addition, this bill would aid Santa Clarita’s strategic planning as the city continues to expand and better facilitate the needs of our community members.

We often tout California as the fifth largest economy in the world, but this means nothing if our local economies cannot tap into our vast, statewide resources — especially when our cities were entitled to these resources in the first place. In Santa Clarita alone, AB 213 would restore over $440,000 in funding annually. This goes straight back to our city and will allow us to serve all residents and prioritize projects we all want, like infrastructure repair and development.

It was important to me as your

representative to move this bill forward and for the city of Santa Clarita to have a seat at the table. That’s why it was my distinct pleasure to welcome Councilman Bob Kellar to Sacramento to testify in support of AB 213 last Wednesday.

During the hearing in the Assembly Committee on Local Government, Councilman Kellar encouraged committee members to vote in favor of the legislation, citing AB 213’s fiscal merit and vast opportunity to improve the lives of our community.

I’m happy to report AB 213 received unanimous support from committee members, and is now heading to the Appropriations Committee to evaluate its positive fiscal impact. This could not have happened without the collaboration between the city and state; first with Assemblywoman Reyes’ introduction and rounded out

by Councilman Kellar’s testimony. Our partnership demonstrated that when all levels of government work together we can represent the best interests of our communities. When there’s buy-in and return on investment from everyone, we all win.

AB 213 is powered by thoughtfulness and diligence. It is a privilege and honor to serve the city of Santa Clarita and the community members in the 38th Assembly District. I promise to continue to be your best advocate in Sacramento, championing district-minded representation in our State Capitol and bringing resources back home.

Assemblywoman Christy Smith, D-Santa Clarita, represents the 38th State Assembly District, which includes the communities of Santa Clarita, Simi Valley, Agua Dulce, Castaic, Santa Susana Knolls and North San Fernando Valley. 

1 9 · S U N D AY S I G N A L

A P R I L 14, 2019

Opinion

HEGG

Continued from page 17

ly ignorant of this common strategy. Figure out what needs to be done; determine how to do it; and then … do whatever it takes to make your opponents look bad and you look good and get so involved in debate, posturing, and slander that eventually you forget the end game, and hope the public does too. As so many have said before “if you ran your home or your company like that you’d be single and bankrupt.” And apparently, as a country, we’re about halfway there already.

So, what is the answer? Of course, it would be wrong to suggest that a simple opinion column could come close to changing all of the very real, deeply entrenched, and harmful patterns of governmental behavior that are seemingly choking our national neck and making the future look bleak. But I will offer one word: discipline. We need a disciplined strategy of daily life that starts in our homes, seeps into our children’s worldview and study habits, and as well,

WHYTE

Continued from page 18

Funny thing. No one seems all that offended by the Notre Dame Fighting Irish or the Vancouver Canucks.

And, some names have been deemed offensive for other reasons. Remember the Washington Bullets? They’re the Wizards now.

Apparently sorcery is OK! The Tampa Bay Devil Rays? Just the Rays now. The word “devil” offended some Christians.

Apparently the New Jersey Devils hockey team gets a pass. (I always thought it was hilarious when the Devils had a European player named Miroslav Satan. It was pronounced “Sha-TAHN,” but still.)

Many pro franchise owners have resisted calls for name changes, because they have deep enough pockets to do so. Colleges cave pretty easily though. The North Dakota Fighting Sioux are now the Fighting Hawks.

“Finding things to be offended by” is a hobby pursued vigorously by many, particularly on university campuses. This is California. Don’t be surprised if it becomes an actual college major.

In fact I am surprised there haven’t been movements to change the mascot names of fully half of our local high schools.

Hart Indians? Obvious — and someday I’m sure someone will make a huge stink about it, even though the school’s namesake, William S.

Discipline is one of those things whose benefit is inversely proportionate to the pain it brings.

Whether it is trying to lose weight, gain fitness, or live within a budget, the more painful the decision to do the right thing is, the greater will be the long-term benefit. becomes the starting place for decision-making in our nation’s capital. The first discipline is to live within the confines of what you know you must do. The second is always to do it well and on time. And the third is to do it in a way that lays the groundwork for future success.

Discipline is one of those things whose benefit is

Hart, star of silent movie westerns, was known for his respect of Native American people and culture.

Canyon Cowboys? Yet another reference to the conquering of the West, which, as previously established, is now considered inherently offensive. Plus, cowboys herd cattle and they’re not doing that to ensure the cattle live long, healthy, contented lives until they die of natural causes surrounded by their loved ones. Hence, a cowboy is offensive to vegans everywhere.

And yes. My high school alma mater, the Saugus Centurions. Symbols of Roman conquest, of course.

Is my college alma mater next? After all, don’t the Matadors of CSUN evoke images of animal cruelty?

Wait ’til this makes its way to San Francisco and its conscientiously offended population realizes they should have been appalled all these years by their NFL team’s name, the 49ers.

Will their baseball team escape scrutiny?

Giants may be offensive to diminutive San Franciscans, right?

It all got me wracking my brain — what would be a fitting replacement for the Cal State Long Beach 49ers?

Then it came to me. Instead of Prospector Pete, the mascot could be as simple as a warm blankie and a teddy bear.

We could call them the Long Beach Safe Space. That will strike fear into opponents, won’t it?

Tim Whyte is editor of The Signal. His column appears Sundays. On Twitter: @TimWhyte. 

inversely proportionate to the pain it brings. Whether it is trying to lose weight, gain fitness, or live within a budget, the more painful the decision to do the right thing is, the greater will be the long-term benefit. But our problem is we’ve come to believe that any pain is unacceptable. We’ve given ourselves over to the myth that life is meant to be easy, and that discipline is really a limitation on personal expression.

Well guess what? Discipline is exactly that, and more. It is the determination to curb today’s selfishness in favor of tomorrow’s security. It is self-limiting; in fact it is self-denying. The only hope we have as a nation of getting off the dangerous path we’re on is to say “no” to our inner sense of entitlement, determine that we’re going to master our wills, and then set them energetically to do the best things rather than the easy things. And who knows? If it starts with us — the rank and file — maybe it will filter up to those who make the decisions that will determine our future.

David Hegg is senior pastor of Grace Baptist Church and a Santa Clarita resident.“Ethically Speaking” appears Sundays. 

LETTERS

Continued from page 17

Wouldn’t that be a hoot?

Regardless of the reason it happened, I thought it was a fine column, clearly thought out and presented, and logically and ethically sound.

So, Jonathan, does this mean you’ll be burning your Democrat membership card?

Brian Baker, Saugus 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.

OUR VIEW

Continued from page 17

tive contributions, most recently including gap funding from the county that will extend the existing shelter's operations, and a grant from the city that will enable Bridge to Home to hire a project manager.

In all, the city and county have combined to provide the organization more than $2 million in funding as it works toward developing the year-round shelter on city-provided land near Drayton Street, which is close to public transportation but also isn't smack dab in the middle of a residential community.

It’s a sign of how the community has evolved — in more ways than one. And, we’re proud to say our community has progressed well past the days of doing little more than tossing a bar of soap out into the rain. 

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A P R I L 14, 2018

= Family Friendly Event

THIS WEEK’S CALENDAR

ONGOING 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/canyonsanta-clarita/# 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-newhallfarmers-market

EVENTS BY DATE Monday, April 15, 6:30 p.m. Otto Stürcke will conduct a pastel demonstration at the meeting of the Santa Clarita Artists Association.

Primarily self-taught, Stürcke joined the U.S. Marine Corps in hopes of attaining financial aid to attend an art college. Working as an illustrator helped him hone many techniques and he found pastels to be his principal medium of choice.In recent years, Stürcke has garnered recognition and awards for his works. This event is free and open to the public. Barnes & Noble Valencia 23630 Valencia Blvd., Santa Clarita. Info: Olga Kaczmar (661) 254-5267, santaclaritaartists.org Wednesday, April 17, 10-11 a.m. Come to the SCV Senior Center for a Scholar Series Presentation, “First Ladies — Portraits of Grace & Leadership.” Join professor Brassfield to explore the role of famous and lesser-known first ladies. Some entered the White House with reluctance, others blazed trails, defined the role and left their mark for all who followed. SCV Senior Center, 22900 Market Street, Newhall. Info: Blyth Birchall, bbirchall@scv-seniorcenter.org Thursday, April 18, 7-10 p.m. Come to the free art reception at The MAIN for “Reality

Optional: The Unhinged Wit of Phil Althouse.”

This exhibit features digital artwork from Los Angeles based artist Phil Althouse who is fascinated by the challenge of telling a story and injecting humor and theatrical timing into a single still image. Guests attending this free reception will enjoy light refreshments and have an opportunity to meet the artist.

The exhibit is on display from April 17 to May 12 at The MAIN. 24266 Main Street., Newhall.

Info: Diana Shaw at dianashawhouse@gmail. com or (661) 645-0231, atthemain.org Friday, April 19, 6 p.m. Here’s your chance to see those unique arthouse films that you might have missed in the theater. Host and moderator Gary Peterson will discuss film details; all screenings are free and open to the public. This screening will feature “The Sisters Brothers” at 6 p.m. and “Sorry to Bother You” at 8 p.m. College of the Canyons, Hasley Hall, Room 101, 26455 Rockwell Canyon Rd, Santa Clarita Info: gary.peterson@canyons. edu, canyons.edu/Offices/HumanitiesDiv/ Pages/FridayNightFilms.aspx Friday, April 19, 6-10 p.m. Come to the “A Night of Comedy — Circle of Hope Fundraiser” and enjoy a night of laughter and great food with family, friends and strangers. All proceeds benefit Circle of Hope. Included in each ticket is a comedy show, Mediterranean dinner buffet, dessert buffet, giveaways, bottomless non-alcoholic beverages, and a cash bar. Creative and fun cocktail attire. $75, No tickets will be sold at the door, advanced purchase only. The Oaks Club at Valencia 26550 Heritage View Lane Valencia.

Friday, April 19, 6-8:30 p.m. Come to College of the Canyons to learn how to make different flavors of French macaroons.

Recipes include 2-3 different macarons with plenty to take home. We will be working in teams of two and practicing mixing, piping and filling techniques. This is a gluten-free dessert class! 26455 Rockwell Canyon Road., Santa Clarita Info: facebook.com/ events/1189102181253258 Saturday, April 20, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Join Gilchrist Farm for a celebration of Spring! Enjoy baby animals-goats, chicks, piglets and more.

Listen to live music, eat great food, shop fantastic local vendors selling handcrafted & unique items, create spring farm crafts.

Take a picture with the Easter Bunny or one of our friendly real bunnies! We’ll have pony rides, horseback rides, wagon rides to enjoy the spring color and green grass surrounding the farm, our new farm train, water balloon

launch, archery, roping, butterfly release at noon, free pig races at 2PM and 4PM and our fabulous egg hunts at 9 a.m., 11 a.m., 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. 30116 Bouquet Canyon Road, Santa Clarita. Info: gilchristfarm.com Saturday, April 20, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Come celebrate Spring and Easter at the Sanctuary. We will be planting flowers, loving our baby animals and there will be an Easter Egg hunt for the kids! $5 donation per kid (5 egg limit) which will go towards our rescue animals! Other activities: include face painting and vegan lunch for $5 each and building a fairy garden herb planter for $15. Limit 50 tickets only — buying in advance is really suggested since we want to keep it intimate for our animals.

Sanctuary Animal Assisted Therapy, 27662 Rolling Hills Road, Canyon Country. Info: sanctuaryaat.org Saturday, April 20, 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Come to the Canyon High Cowboys Softball Cornhole Fundraiser! Registration begins at 11:30 a.m., Tourney starts at noon. Ages 10 and up can play. Everyone plays at least 4 games. The top 8 teams after all have played 4 rounds will go into the playoffs (games to 21

points or 10 minutes, whichever comes first). $40 per person, $80 per team. Registration is limited to 75 teams or 150 people so don’t wait to register.Wolf Creek Brewery 25108 Rye Canyon Loop, Santa Clarita. Info: longshotcornhole.com/events/canyon-country-cowboys-cornhole-fundraiser Sunday, April 21, 9:30 a.m. to noon Join His Way Church for Easter this year at our annual Easter in the Park event! There will be free food, games, Easter egg hunt and pictures with an Easter bunny! Doors open at 9:30 a.m. Richard Rioux Park 26233 W Faulkner Dr Stevenson Ranch. Info: julie@ehisway.org, ehisway.org/easter-in-the-park-2 Sunday, April 21, 2-3 p.m. Hummingbirds are among the smallest of birds, but are some of the most colorful and fun to watch. We have six species of hummingbirds that have been observed at Placerita Canyon Nature Center .Coms for a fascinating presentation by Judy Bass and get a look at these creatures known for vigor and energy in myth and culture! 19152 Placerita Canyon Rd, Santa Clarita. Info: placerita.org

Rewarding health care careers start here.

Now enrolling: !

N IN| Dental ! !

WIW Medical Assistant WIN Assisting CONGRATULATIONS to TERESITA NOLASCO of VALENCIA — the winner of a $100 gift certificate for correctly identifying the artwork as being from the Century 21 advertisement on page 4 of our March 31 issue.

Identify this piece of artwork and the page number that it is on in one of the advertisements in this week’s issue, and you will be entered to win $100 in a gift certificate for a local restaurant. One game and one winner each week.

Mail your entry to: The Signal – Contest 26330 Diamond Place | Santa Clarita, CA 91350 Or email to: contest@signalscv.com Advertiser: Page # Name: Address:

Phone:

Launch a medical or dental career in just week’s arehands-on due Wed.training, April 24.

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A P R I L 14, 2019

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 21

Math Support can balance your summer equation

Charter College sees demand for health care workers

C

harter College career service and educator teams watch trends to stay on top of job growth and business demand. Then, they give their students the tools they need to change their lives through career-specific education and training, while also working with community leaders to provide the skilled employees they need.

One trend they’ve been watching for some time is the growing demand for skilled health care workers, due to the growth and aging of America, along with technological advances in medicine.

To help address this demand, Charter College Canyon Country, located at 19034 Soledad Canyon Road, offers

Dental Assisting and Medical Assistant programs. Both can be completed in less than a year.

The Medical Assistant program incorporates a combination of clinical, technical and business skills, preparing graduates for entry-level employment in a variety of positions, including medical assistant, clinical assistant, medical receptionist or medical office assistant.

The Dental Assisting program prepares graduates to work under the supervision of dentists performing a variety of patient care, office and laboratory duties, with responsibilities that could include sterilizing and disinfecting instruments and equipment; See HEALTH, page 38

A

s the school year is winding down, many parents are looking for opportunities to make the most of the summer for their child.

For the past 25 years, junior- and senior-high students have done just that by attending SCV’s only private school for math and science.

Math Support Services was founded in 1993. By 1997, it was the first to achieve full accreditation through the Western Association of Schools and Colleges. It began offering “for credit” courses approved by the Hart District. Students in seventh through twelfth grade, may take any math or science course with the advisement of their counselor or principal.

Many local school options are independent study, but at MSS, we give students an effective learning environment, homework and solid instruction that help result in long term knowledge and future success.

If students need to retake a math or science course, they will replace their deficient grade with a new grade and earn the credit they need. They can also move ahead in math by taking a Bridge to an Honors course, an entire year of Geometry, Math 8 and other transferable credit courses. These new options can accelerate them in math or science!

Our summer options allow families to take vacations or participate in sports. Extensive summer enrichment options are available to prepare students for the next school year, the PSAT/SAT/ACT for college, or just to participate in fun activities (fourth through twelfth grade). Classes are held in the morning and evenings.  Applications for summer classes are available at www.mathsupportservices. com. For further information, contact Cannistraci at (661) 255-1730.

Welcome to Our School!

We offer: Christian Curriculum, Small Classes, Safe and Clean Classrooms, Loving Certified Teachers, AND MORE! Call for a tour!

http://www.noahs-park.org cari.byers@northpark.com (661) 621-6010

28310 Kelly Johnson Pkwy Valencia, CA 91355 Off Copper Hill & Newhall Ranch Rd. LIC# 197417908

22 · S U N D AYS I G N A L

A P R I L 14, 2019

Your child deserves academic excellence.

You Are Welcome Here.

• Collaborative, innovative classrooms • Consistent academic excellence • 10 award-winning schools • The support to persevere • Open to all

Spring Open House

for current & prospective students.

NEWHALL

May 9th, 2019 All Locations.

NewhallSchoolDistrict.com

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STEVENSON RANCH

Newhall 24607 N Walnut St 661.291.4010

Wiley Canyon 24240 W La Glorita Cir 661.291.4030

Old Orchard 25141 N Avd Rondel 661.291.4040

Oak Hills 26730 Old Rock Rd 661.291.4100

Stevenson Ranch 25820 Carroll Ln 661.291.4070

McGrath 21501 Deputy Jake Dr 661.291.4090

Peachland 24800 Peachland Ave 661.291.4020

Meadows 25577 N Fedala Rd 661.291.4050

Valencia Valley 23601 Carrizo Dr 661.291.4060

Pico Canyon 25255 Pico Canyon Rd 661.291.4080

A P R I L 14, 2019

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 23

• SAT • ACT • AP/SAT-Subject • PSAT (9th-10th) • College Admission Counseling • 4th-8th English/Math • Private Tutoring

Partnered with William S. Hart District Offering Credit Recovery and AP Courses

FREE ASSESSMENT TEST AND CONSULTATION

661-259-0052

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24 · S U N D AYS I G N A L

A P R I L 14, 2019

Rewarding health care careers start here.

Now enrolling: Medical Assistant | Dental Assisting

• Fire/9-1-1 • Personal • Pedestrian • Vehicle • Bicycle • Playground

Safety First for Santa Clarita’s Kids REGISTER YOUR CHILD FOR SAFETY TOWN

Launch a medical or dental career in just 10 months. We offer the hands-on training, supportive learning environment and job search help that leads to success.

SAFETY TOWN teaches young children 4 1/2 to 6 years of age, essential safety skills for everyday life. Children tour a fire truck, drive pedal cars, learn about safely crossing streets, water safety and more.

SESSION 1 July 15 - 19 $150 PER CHILD* SESSION 2 July 22 - 26 Includes: T-Shirt, school From 9:00 am to 12:30 PM

Program on Wed. July 24, 5:30 - 9:00 PM. For guardians of children in Pre-K to Grade 6.

Local safety experts will share concepts, skills and strategies to protect children. Topics are: Internet Safety, Bullying and Child Abuse Prevention, and Disaster preparedness for family and home.

$50* Includes interactive program, dinner , a copy of KidPower International’s Doing Right by Our Kids doing: Protecting Child Safety at all Levels, and bag-full of supplies and materials to help keep your family safe.

*Scholarships available

19034 Soledad Canyon Road chartercollege.edu • 661.252.1864 Important information about the educational debt, earnings and completion rates of students who attended these programs is available at http://ow.ly/oSVO30dC8Dn

bag, daily healthy snacks.

WEST CREEK ACADEMY New!! Parent & Grandparent Safety Town

for qualified families.

For Applications and Information go to www.SafetyTownSCV.com

661.360.6457 Susan@santaclaritaoptimistitfoundation.org

The Santa Clarita Optimist Foundation sponsors Safety Town, and is an IRS-designated Public Charity, Federal Tax ID 346-4800950

A P R I L 14, 2019

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 25

SANTA CLARITA CHRISTIAN S C H O O L

College Preparatory Academics taught from a Christian Worldview CIF Champions: Basketball (2018), Swimming (2014, 2015-17), Girls Volleyball (2014), Football (2008-09), Baseball (2004)

• 36 units of college credit available through our AP and Dual Credit College Classes • Students Accepted into the Nation’s Top Universities

CIF-SS Division 5AAA State Champions: Basketball (2018)

• Low Student-to-Teacher Ratio • Caring, Christian teachers and coaches

Accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC)

• K-12 Competitive Sports: Thirty-five competitive athletic teams offered for grades K-12.

Member of Association of Christian Schools International (ACSI)

CLASS OF 2018

COLLEGE ACCEPTANCE

95%

A few of our 2019 Graduates:

of the 2018 graduating class received an academic and/or athletic honor.

100%

Haley - UCLA Amongst the 20 acceptances Haley received, she was offered admission to Boston University, UCLA, UC Berkeley, UC San Diego, UC Davis, UC Santa Barbara, and California Polytechnic San Luis Obispo to name a few.

Haley accepted UCLA’s offer of admission and will become a Bruin for the next four years.

number of students from the 2018 graduating class who are matriculating into college.

Congratulations Class of 2019!

Megan - Southern Connecticut State University Megan committed to Southern Connecticut State University, a Division 2 school in New Haven, CT to play volleyball. Megan will be pursuing a degree in athletic training and plans to graduate in five years with a Master’s degree.

Now enrolling for the 2019-20 school year!

Schedule your personal campus tour today!

Serving grades K-12

661.252.7371

27249 Luther Drive Santa Clarita, CA 91351

www.sccs.cc

Blake - UCLA Blake committed to play Divsion 1 football at UCLA as a preferred walk-on. “It’s really just a dream come true for me. It’s a blessing to learn under that type of experience, learn under that type of coaching,” Kirshner said.

26 · S U N D AYS I G N A L

A P R I L 14, 2019

Find SUCCESS Here!

MATH SUPPORT SERVICES

The Trusted Name in SCV for Tutoring Instruction

MATHEMATICS: All levels through Calculus & Statistics

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Chemistry, Physics and Biology

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Individualized Lessons, Flexible Schedule, School Connection, Study Skills Transferable Courses for Credit approved by the William S. Hart District

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Summer Sessions Now Available Ask about our New Bridge Courses!

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No registration fees or long-term commitment Claim this offer before April 30, 2019 Offer only valid for new students (Limit one per family) No Cash Value Restriction may apply

Call Today! 661-255-1730 26111 Bouquet Canyon Rd., A-1 (Near IHOP), Santa Clarita

We are a Vendor for most Charter schools Serving Students since 1993

What are the benefits of afternoon preschool?

N

oah’s Park Preschool morning classes fill up quickly! With a limited amount of spaces available, some families are faced with afternoon preschool as their only option. Can afternoon preschool work for you? Consider these advantages:

• Relaxing mornings to spend with your child. You can enjoy your breakfast and play together. What a great time to take it slow.

• Time to get things done with your child. You can make early doctor’s appointments, take enrichment classes, make playdates!

• Time for yourself. Alone time to get your shopping done, run your errands, and exercise, during school hours!

• Smaller class sizes. It is common for afternoon programs to have less children enrolled, which means more one-on-one attention for your child!

• Priority enrollment for the fol-

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

(choice of one entree, seasonal fruit and milk)

BREAKFAST

LUNCH

Monday, April 15

Breakfast Burrito Breakfast Bun Cereal Chilled Fruit Fruit Juice

Meatloaf & Mashed Potatoes Cheeseburger Dippin’ Chicken & Sauce Smart Choice Pizza Seasonal Salad Bar

Tuesday, April 16

Egg & Sausage Wrap Breakfast Bun Cereal Chilled Fruit Fresh Fruit

BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwich Mini Corn Dogs Dippin’ Chicken & Sauce Smart Choice Pizza* Seasonal Salad Bar

Breakfast Quesadilla Breakfast Bun Cereal Fresh Fruit Fruit Juice

Teriyaki Chicken over Rice Chicken Nuggets Bean & Cheese Burrito Smart Choice Pizza* Seasonal Salad Bar Chocolate Chip Cookie

Pancake Sausage Stick* Breakfast Bun Cereal Chilled Fruit Fresh Fruit

BBQ Meatballs & Mashed Potatoes Deli Sandwich Dippin’ Chicken & Sauce Smart Choice Pizza Seasonal Salad Bar Brownie Cup

Buttermilk Bar Breakfast Bun Cereal Chilled Fruit Fruit Juice

Baja Fish Taco Chicken Nuggets PBJ Sandwich & String Cheese Smart Choice Pizza Manager’s Choice* Seasonal Salad Bar Hip Hoppin’ Jelly Bean Ice

Wednesday, April 17 Thursday, April 18 Friday, April 19

lowing year. If you enroll in our afternoon program, you can still get on our wait list for a morning spot.

Next year, you will get to register weeks before the public, so you will have a better chance of getting into a morning spot.

See PRESCHOOL, page 38

Committed to excellence for all students

T

here is a place for your child at one of the Newhall School District’s 10 award-winning schools.

Come see for yourself!

Our rigorous instructional program and culture of academic excellence will guide your student to mastery of Common Core Standards, establishing them for college and career See NEWHALL, page 38

INFORMATION MEETING

Thursday April 25th 8:30am

Monday May 6th 6:30pm

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

A P R I L 14, 2019

roll! n E o t w o N l l Ca

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 27

4 WASC APPROVED 4 NCAA APPROVED 4 K-12 ALL SUBJECTS

28 · S U N D AYS I G N A L

AMERICAN All Star Sports Grill 28200 Bouquet Canyon Road, Saugus 661-296-8000 Backwoods Inn 17846 W. Sierra Highway, Canyon Country 661-252-5522 The Backyard Grub n’ Brews 26509 Golden Valley Rd, Santa Clarita 661-286-1165 Bergie’s 16404 Delone Street, Canyon Country 661-251-3133 Black Angus 27007 McBean Parkway, Valencia 661-288-2000 Boardwalk Grille 21516 Golden Triangle Road, Santa Clarita 661-253-4386 Brookyln Bar & Grill 25860 McBean Parkway, Valencia 661-284-6057 The Cheesecake Factory 24250 Town Center Dr #110, Valencia, CA 91355 661-286-1232 Claim Jumper 25740 The Old Road, Valencia 661-254-2628 Courtyard Bistro 28523 Westinghouse Place, Valencia 661-257-3220 The Daily Harvest Cafe & Juicery 22722 Lyons Ave #6, Newhall 661-383-9387 Eat Real Cafe 23414 Lyons Avenue, Newhall 661-254-2237 27530 Newhall Ranch Rd, Valencia 661-254-2237 Islands 24180 Valencia Boulevard, Valencia 661-284-5903 Lazy Dog Cafe 24201 Valencia Blvd., Valencia 661-253-9996

A P R I L 14, 2019

Mama’s Table 23340 Cinema Dr, Santa Clarita 661-284-5988 Marston’s Restaurant 24011 Newhall Ranch Road, Valencia 661-253-9910 Nealie’s Skillet 25858 Tournament Rd, Valencia 661-678-0031 Newhall Refinery 24258 Main St, Newhall 661-388-4477 Red Robin 27063 McBean Parkway, Valencia 661-260-2411 Saddle Ranch Chop House 24201 Valencia Blvd., Valencia 661-383-0173 Salt Creek Grille 24415 Town Center Drive, Valencia 661-222-9999 Sizzler 19013 Golden Valley Rd, Santa Clarita 661-250-7300 Souplantation 24303 Town Center Drive, Valencia 661-286-1260 Stonefire Grill 23300 Cinema Drive, Valencia 661-799-8282 The Old Town Junction 24275 Main Street Newhall (661) 702-4888 Thelma’s & Luis Gourmet Restaurant/Thelma’s Morning Cafe 22876 Copperhill Drive, Saugus 661-263-8283 Wing Stop 18547 Soledad Canyon Rd, Canyon Country 661-251-9700

BBQ Black Bear Diner 23626 Valencia Blvd, Valencia 661-799-4820 Dickeys Barbecue Pit 18742 Soledad Canyon Rd, Santa Clarita 661-251-0840

L&L Hawaiian BBQ 18727 Via Princessa, Canyon Country 661-251-8333

Oggi’s Pizza & Brewing Co. 18810 Soledad Canyon Road, Canyon Country 661-252-7883

Lucille’s Bar-B-Que 24201 West Valencia Blvd, Valencia 661-255-1227

Pocock Brewing Company 24907 Avenue Tibbits, Valencia 661-775-4899

Q&Q Hawaiian BBQ 27530 Newhall Ranch Rd #101, Santa Clarita 661-383-9098

Wolf Creek Restaurant & Brewing Co. 27746 N. McBean Parkway, Valencia 661-263-9653

Rattler’s BBQ 26495 Golden Valley Road, Canyon Country 661-251-4195

Bricks on Lyons 23820 Lyons Ave, Newhall 661-286-1091

Smokehouse on Main 24255 Main St, Old Town Newhall 661-888-4585 Wood Ranch Bar-B-Que & Grill 25580 The Old Road, Stevenson Ranch 661-222-9494

BREAKFAST & BRUNCH Casa Canela 27647 Bouquet Canyon Rd, Santa Clarita 661-523-7282 Crazy Otto’s Diner 19132 Soledad Canyon Road, Canyon Country 661-299-6886 Egg Plantation 24415 Walnut Street, Newhall 661-255-8222 Eggs N Things 27560 Newhall Ranch Road, Valencia 661-702-8664 Halfway House 15564 W. Sierra Highway, Saugus 661-251-0102 Mama’s Table 23340 Cinema Dr, Santa Clarita 661-284-5988 Marston’s Restaurant 24011 Newhall Ranch Road, Valencia 661-253-9910 Mimi’s Cafe 24201 Magic Mountain Parkway, Valencia 661-255-5520 Saugus Cafe 25861 Railroad Avenue, Saugus 661-259-7886 Way Station Coffee Shop 24377 Main Street, Newhall 661-255-0222

BREWERIES BJ’s Restaurant 24320 Town Center Drive, Valencia 661-288-1299

BURGERS / SANDWICHES

Corner Bakery 24290 Valencia Boulevard, Valencia 661-259-2813 Cousins Burgers 19318 Soledad Canyon Rd, Canyon Country 661-298-4200 Everest Burgers 18645 Soledad Canyon Rd Santa Clarita, CA 91351 (661) 252-3412 Five Guys 24201 W, Valencia Blvd #3672, Valencia 661-255-0981 Grilled Cheese Factory 24201 Valencia Boulevard, Valencia 661-888-1508 The Habit 25948 N. McBean Parkway, Valencia 661-291-1575 Jimmy Dean’s 22941 Lyons Ave, Newhall 661-255-6315 JJ’s Bar and Grill 25848 Tournament Road, Valencia 661-799-7557 Noah’s 25910 The Old Road, Valencia 661-254-9474 Panera Bread 24133 Baywood Lane, Valencia 661-287-3900 Panini Palace 23120 Lyons Ave, Santa Clarita 661-678-0552 Route 66 Classic Grill 18730 Soledad Canyon Road, Canyon Country 661-298-1494 Rustic Burger 24025 Newhall Ranch Rd, Valencia 661-254-1300 Rustic Eatery 25343 Wayne Mills Place, Valencia 661-254-8100

Submarina California Subs 26517 Carl Boyer Drive, Canyon Country 661-259-4782 Telly’s Diner 27125 Sierra Highway, Canyon Country 661-250-0048 Tiny’s Submarine Sandwiches 27251 Camp Plenty Road, Canyon Country 661-251-5885

CHINESE A&B Chinese Express 27051 McBean Parkway, Valencia 661-288-2683 China Express 19417 Soledad Canyon Road, Canyon Country 661-251-8783 Genghis Khan 24506 W. Lyons Avenue, Newhall 661-254-0351 Golden Wok Restaurant 16668 Soledad Canyon Road, Canyon Country 661-424-0888 Grand Panda 23802 Lyons Avenue, Newhall 661-253-1898 27924 Seco Canyon Road, Saugus 661-297-9868 Mandarin Wong Chinese Restaurant 23758 Lyons Avenue, Newhall 661-259-5823 Moon Wok 23460 Cinema Drive Suite H, Valencia 661-288-1898 New Moon 28281 Newhall Ranch Road, Valencia 661-257-4321 Pei Wei Asian Diner 24250 Valencia Boulevard, Valencia 661-600-0132 Pick Up Stix 25960 The Old Road, Stevenson Ranch 661-288-2090 WaBa Grill 19120 Soledad Canyon Rd, Canyon Country 661-367-7297 31739 Castaic Road, Castaic 661-295 9222 Wok’s Cookin’ Chinese Restaurant 31565 Castaic Road, Castaic 661-257-2890

A P R I L 14, 2019

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 29

FOOD

Tomato Joe’s Pizza offers a self-serving beer wall

By Signal Staff

W

hen Tomato Joe’s Pizza & Taps opened its Canyon Country location, it not only added another branch to the popular Valencia location — it added a whole new way to experience beer.

Or more precisely, Tomato Joe’s added an entire wall of the frothy beverage.

There is a wide variety of brews up for sampling, and you can serve yourself at this establishment and drink as much or little to your heart’s content, with a wide selection for your palette to enjoy.

On the restaurant’s second day of operations, customers like Gary Cuesta sat back and ordered pizza, and many were also interested in starting a tab for the new drinking experience.

The tab gets customers a wristband with a small Tomato Joe symbol and a glass.

“Wow,” Cuesta said as he held his glass and stared at all the possibilities. “This is really something quite different.”

The first self-serve bar in Santa Clarita gave Cuesta a whole new world to ponder. Should he decide on a beer, perhaps the Two Hearted Ale, the We Got a Bogey or any of the other selections. Perhaps a cider or even a wine?

It didn’t matter because he could

CUBAN Hidden Havana Cuban Cafe 23548 Lyons Avenue, Newhall 661-254-4460

DELICATESSEN Bob’s Country Meats 19012 Soledad Canyon Road, Canyon Country 661-251-5995 Cathy’s Delicatessen 23120 W. Lyons Avenue, Newhall 661-288-2217 Dave’s Full Service Meats 25675 Bellerive Drive, Valencia 661-259-3597

Customer Gary Questa of Canyon Country samples one of the numerous varieties of beer available at the self serve beer bar at Tomato Joes Pizza & Taps in Santa Clarita. A wristband activates the pour at the beer bar. PHOTOS BY DAN WATSON / THE SIGNAL

try a little of each with a reduced price. Or you could even combine two flavors just to see how your new concoction will taste.

Customers can go up to each of the spouts, tap the wristband to the corner, and begin filling their beer glasses. Instead of charging by the glass, the beers here are priced by ounce.

A double tap on the screen that shows the beer name above the spout brings up a description of the beer you’re about to enjoy.

Maria’s Italian-American Deli 22620 W. Lyons Avenue, Newhall 661-259-6261 Piccola Trattoria Italian Deli 18302 W. Sierra Hwy, Canyon Country 661-299-6952 Sandwich Shop 25530 W. Avenue Stanford, Valencia 661-257-4811

Since the new Tomato Joe’s opened, customers have been mixing and matching, according to Daisy Miranda, the restaurant’s front of house lead.

Once a customer took the “Cali Creamin’ and paired it with the Smog City coffee porter,” she said. “And they loved the result. You can do that with any of the drinks here, because it’s so easy to use. You just pay for what you pour, and the wristband keeps track of it electronically for your tab.”

FRENCH Le Chene French Cuisine 12625 Sierra Highway, Agua Dulce 661-251-4315

GREEK Gyromania 20655 Soledad Canyon Rd, Santa Clarita 661-252-4976

Cuesta noted he liked that format quite a bit, ultimately settling on a few ounces of a pale ale.

“This is the first time I’ve seen this with beer,” he said, sitting back with the beer while waiting for a sandwich.

“There is a really great selection here, and I like the variety and that you can have half a beer, or an itty bitty bit, and then move on to something else.” 

The new Tomato Joe’s — and its beer wall — can be found at 19167 Golden Valley Road.

INDIAN An Indian Affaire 23360 W. Valencia Boulevard, Valencia 661-288-1200 Karma Restaurant, Bar & Lounge 23460 Cinema Drive, Valencia 661-288-0080 Royal Tandoor 26532 Bouquet Canyon Rd, Santa Clarita 661-263-7100

ITALIAN Bella Cucina Ristorante Italiano 27911 Seco Canyon Rd, Saugus 661-263-1414 Buca di Beppo 26940 Theater Drive, Valencia 661-253-1900 Italia Panetteria & Deli 27674 Newhall Ranch Rd, Valencia 661-294-9069 Maria’s Italian-American Deli 22620 Lyons Avenue, Newhall 661-259-6261

See DINING GUIDE, page 31

30 · S U N D AYS I G N A L

A P R I L 14, 2019

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

Jack Russell’s Great White coming to Canyon SCV

By Perry Smith Sunday Signal Editor

I

f you’re looking for a Saturday night full of rock ’n’ roll, Canyon Santa Clarita has a show for you for the last weekend in April.

Jack Russell’s Great White, a reboot of the band that’s sold more than 10 million albums around the world, and

brought us such hits as, “Once Bitten, Twice Shy,” ‘Rock Me” and “Save Your Love,” is coming to town April 27.

“We’re definitely playing all the biggest hits for sure,” said Robbie Lochner, guitarist and who has been in the since it was formed by the former Great White lead singer in 2011.

The band is still creating acoustic material, live hits and original tracks, as well, and bringing a high-energy

show to its audiences, Lochner said.

The band also throws in some Led Zeppelin covers, he said, which was a huge influence on the Great White sound. The seering Robert Plant-like vocals can certainly be heard when you listen to any of Russell’s recordings.

“The audience feeds off of it, and the audience usually gets really loud,” Lochner said, describing the atmo-

sphere at one of their shows. “It’s fun when people are giving you that kind of feedback — it certainly helps.”  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, (888) 645-5006 or TicketMaster.com. For more info, visit WheremusicmeetstheSoul.com.

A P R I L 14, 2019

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 31

DINING GUIDE

Continued from page 29

ITALIAN Numero Uno Pizza 26111 Bouquet Canyon Road, Santa Clarita 661-252-5011 Olive Garden 27003 McBean Parkway, Valencia 661-799-8161 Piccola Trattoria 18302 Sierra Highway, Canyon Country 661-299-6952 Presto Pasta 24375 Magic Mountain Pkwy, Valencia 661-284-7737 Spumoni Restaurant 24917 W. Pico Canyon Road, Stevenson Ranch 661-799-0360

JAPANESE & SUSHI Achita Sushi 22913 Soledad Canyon Rd, Santa Clarita 661-476-5522 Akasaka Sushi 28050 Hasley Canyon Road, Castaic 661-257-6661

Sushi Song Japanese Restaurant 22896 Copper Hill Dr, Santa Clarita 661-297-5659 Yamato Restaurant 24947 Pico Canyon Road, Stevenson Ranch 661-799-0707

KOREAN & MONGOLIAN Charcoal Korean BBQ Restaurant 19158 Soledad Canyon Rd, Canyon Country 661-251-9292 Flame Broiler 18519 Soledad Canyon Road, Santa Clarita 661-252-5918 Gogi House 26524 Bouquet Canyon Road, Saugus 661-263-0048 Kogiya 2 Korean BBQ 23410 Lyons Ave, Santa Clarita 661-678-0999 Lee’s Korean BBQ & Tofu House 23360 West Valencia Boulevard, Valencia 661-254-2307

MEDITERRANEAN

Aomori 18242 Soledad Canyon Road, Canyon Country 661-251-5733

Cafe O 20655 Soledad Canyon Road, Canyon Country 661-424-0401

Asako Sushi 27540 Sierra Hwy, Canyon Country 661-251-6010

Flame & Skewers 25870 McBean Parkway, Valencia 661- 661-799-7538

Azabu Sabo 24201 Magic Mountain Pkwy, Santa Clarita 661-288-2688

Grill Kabob 27653 Bouquet Canyon Road, Saugus 661-263-7445

Bonsai Garden 19358 Soledad Canyon Road, Canyon Country 661-251-9008

The Grill 16522 Soledad Canyon Rd, Canyon Country 661-673-5999

Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ Dining 27025 McBean Pkwy, Valencia 661-254-2355

Kebab House 24201 Valencia Blvd, Valencia 661-799-5844

Kabuki 24045 Newhall Ranch Rd, Valencia 661-799-8655 Kisho Japanese Teppan Grill & Revolving Sushi Bar 23430 Valencia Boulevard, Valencia 661-284-3856 My Hot Pot 26238 Bouquet Canyon Road, Santa Clarita 661-288-1998

Manoushee Mediterranean Restaurant 27131 Sierra Hwy, Canyon Country 661-251-6666 Olive Terrace Cafe 28261 Newhall Ranch Road, Valencia 661-257-7860 Zankou Chicken 24463 Magic Mountain Pkwy, Valencia 661-705-7265

Betito’s Mexican 18902 Soledad Canyon Road, Canyon Country 661-251-0557

Mama Mia Pizza 25708 The Old Road, Stevenson Ranch 661-286-9183

Cabo Cabana Restaurant 25710 The Old Road, Stevenson Ranch 661-222-7022

Mr. Hand Tossed Pizza & Pasta 18921 Soledad Canyon Rd, Canyon Country 661-299-4833

Casa Pasilla 27674 Newhall Ranch Road, Valencia 661-295-1989 Dario’s Mexican Restaurant 24523 Newhall Avenue, Newhall 661-255-6868

Numero Uno Pizza 26111 Bouquet Canyon Road, Saugus 661-259-3895

El Trocadero Steak House 24274 Main Street, Newhall (661) 284-6615

Pizza Di Marco 27674 Newhall Ranch Road, Valencia 661-295-8769

La Cocina Bar & Grill 28022 Seco Canyon Road, Saugus 661-297-4546

Pieology Pizzeria 28295 Newhall Ranch Road, Valencia 661-678-0234

La Charrita Restaurant 24225 Main St, Newhall 661-288-1204

Tomato Joes Pizza & Taps 19167 Golden Valley Road, Santa Clarita 661-250-7550

Medrano’s Mexican Restaurant 19319 Soledad Canyon Rd, Santa Clarita 661-367-4945 “Finally, by popular demand...

Solita Tacos & Margaritas 24201 Valencia Blvd., Suite 3470, Santa Clarita 661-291-1399

Toppers Pizza 23710 Valencia Boulevard, Santa Clarita 805-385-4444

Magic Pizza SCV 26870 The Old Rd, Stevenson Ranch 661-291-1921

Burrito Factory 23029 Soledad Canyon Road, Canyon Country 661-288-0222

Rosarito Grill 19425 Soledad Canyon Road, Canyon Country 661-251-2732

Tomato Joes Pizza Express 27732 McBean Pkwy.Valencia 661-263-8646

Guido’s Pizza & Pasta 26322 N. Friendly Valley Parkway, Newhall 661-252-4111

MEXICAN

THAI

Mom Can Cook Thai Kitchen 18358 Soledad Canyon Road, Canyon Country 661-251-8103 Original Thai BBQ Restaurant 27530 Newhall Ranch Road, Valencia 661-257-6421 Siam Rice II 25845 Railroad Ave, Santa Clarita 661-287-0099 Sister House Thai Fusion 26879 Bouquet Canyon Rd, Santa Clarita 661-263-9911

VIETNAMESE

Pho Sure 23876 Copper Hill Drive, Valencia 661-257-3888

“For 12 years running...

TOMATO JOE’S

TOMATO JOE’S

DELIVERS

DELIVERS

to Valencia” 661.263.8646

to Canyon Country!”

661.250.7550 SCV’s Highest Rated Pizza Since 2007

www.tomatojoespizza.com

Valencia’s Top Choice for Take Out and Delivery

Huge selection of pizzas, pastas, sandwiches and salads

Persia Lounge

PERSIAN & Restaurant 24328 Main Street, Newhall 661-259-4100

PIZZA Chi Chi’s Pizza 27117 Sierra Highway, Canyon Country 661-252-4405 23043 Soledad Canyon Road, Saugus 661-259-4040

at our Canyon Country

Location we’ve got

LIVE MUSIC Wednesday Nights!

Every Come See ME!

A DODGER G

SCV’s First SELF-SERVE

BEER WALL IN CANYON COUNTRY!

Pour a taste or a full stein, pay only for what you pour!

30 beers, ciders & wines on tap – always changing – see today’s list on theUNTAPPD app

20%off

25%off

your first

rder

ONLINE O

the entire beer wall during happy hour

170” MONSTER SCREEN

18 TVs Including a Table Games, Family Friendly, Indoor and Patio Seating

27732 McBean Pkwy, Valencia - 661.263.8646 NOW OPEN: 19167 Golden Valley Rd, Santa Clarita - 661.250.7550

32 · S U N D AYS I G N A L

A P R I L 14, 2019

H O L I D AY

Passover is the celebration of freedom, hope

By Rabbi Mark Blazer Signal Contributing Writer

S

pring is in the air, and the celebration of Passover (Pesach), which begins the evening of April 19, celebrates the Exodus of the Israelites from Egypt.

The name Passover is taken from the Exodus story: During the tenth and ultimate plague inflicted on Pharaoh to break his will, God passed over the Israelites and struck down only the Egyptian firstborn. That night, Pharaoh finally agreed to let the Israelites go; and ever since then, we gather together on that night at our Seder meal to commemorate that time, and to contemplate the meaning of freedom.

The central meaning of Passover is liberation, and hence, it is also called “zeman heiruteinu” — the season of our liberation. We understand liberation, politically — the move from slavery to freedom, as well as through spiritual transformation — the transition from the idolatry of our ancestors to the religious liberation eventually experienced through the

Exodus and the giving of Law at Sinai.

At the root of both these liberation experiences is God. In Judaism’s view, slavery draws legitimacy from idolatry; democracy is ultimately grounded in the God-given dignity of every human being.

Totalitarianism, the total worship of any human creation, is the idolatry of our time. The God who created and loves us gives us freedom as our right, and denies absolute authority to all human governments and systems.

Another name for Passover is “hag ha-aviv” — the holiday of spring.

Following the bleakness of winter, spring marks the rebirth of the earth with the bursting forth of green life.

Pesach is a celebration of rebirth and hope that annually reminds us that

no matter how terrible our situation, we must not lose hope.

One of our favorite songs during Passover is a litany called “Dayenu,” meaning “It Would Have Been Enough.” This rousing liturgical piece is a list of the miracles that God performed from the Egyptian Exodus through the restoration of the Israelites in their homeland.

On one level, Dayenu reminds us of the cumulative manifested power of God during this experience of liberation, but on another, it also reminds us that there were stages in this historical drama. Taken further, Dayenu reminds us that even in our own lives, we need to take one day at a time.

All change takes time, and occurs incrementally, a little bit each day.

Whether its rehabilitation from illness, recovery from addiction or reaching any of our personal goals, after each step we say, Dayenu — this was a good day and I’ll take it.

But we never forget our final vision.

We can’t be trapped being selfcongratulatory, and we cannot make our steps, our transitory stages, our final stop. We must always remind ourselves that for all our successes, we haven’t completely realized our dreams. And that’s why the last words of our seder are always “L’Shana Haba’ah B’Yerushalayim” — Next Year in Jerusalem. Tomorrow will be even greater.

Community Seder

Temple Beth Ami will be celebrating a community Seder the second night of Passover, Saturday, April 20 at 6 pm. Led by Rabbi Mark Blazer and Cantorial Soloist Alyssa Rosenbaum. Call (661) 255-6410 for information and reservations or online at https://www.eventbrite.com/e/ temple-beth-ami-community-seder-2019-tickets-56605216727. 

Fire up the smoker for Easter dinner this year

F

or much of the country, Easter Sunday typically falls during a time of year when the weather outside is still pretty chilly.

But this year Easter falls on the third Sunday in April, increasing the chances that temperatures will be more spring-like and less reminiscent of winter. Just because we live in a region that doesn’t experience the frigid cold of other areas, doesn’t mean that we can’t celebrate the warmer weather, too.

Warmer temperatures on Easter Sunday means hosts tasked with cooking Easter dinner might be able to expand their culinary horizons and avoid the stove. Though they might not have considered it before, hosts might want to fire up their smokers to give their families something delicious and different to dine on this Easter Sunday.If the weather takes an unexpected turn for the worse, electric smokers can typically be used indoors, but check the manufacturer’s instructions to confirm that.

Big meals are part and parcel for Easter Sunday, this recipe for “Pork Loin Roast with Hot Pepper Jelly Glaze” from Karen Putman and Judith Fertig’s “Championship BBQ Secrets for Real Smoked Food” (Robert Rose) is a great way to take advantage of warmer Easter weather while still ensuring everyone has a full belly by the end of the meal.

Pork Loin Roast with Hot Pepper Jelly Glaze

Serves 4 to 6

1 boneless pork loin roast (about 2 lbs.)

4 cups apple juice 1/2 cup Brown Sugar Rib Rub (see below) 1 cup hot pepper jelly

Additional apple juice for spraying 1. Rinse pork under cold running water and pat dry. Place in a large sealable plastic bag and pour in apple juice. Seal bag and refrigerate for at least 8 hours and up to 12 hours.

2. Remove pork from marinade and pat dry. Discard marinade.

Sprinkle dry rub over the surface of the meat, coating evenly.

Set aside.

3. Prepare a fire in your smoker.

4. Meanwhile, in a small saucepan, melt hot pepper jelly over medium-low heat. Keep warm by the smoker.

5. Place pork directly on the smoker rack, add wood to the coals and close the lid. Smoke at 225 F to 250 F, spraying with apple juice every 30 minutes, for 2 hours. Brush with hot pepper jelly, close the lid and smoke, spraying with apple juice every 30 minutes, for 1 to 11/2 hours, or until a meat thermometer inserted in the thickest part of the pork registers 160 F for medium, or until desired doneness. Let rest for 15 minutes before slicing.

Brown Sugar Rib Rub Makes about 3 1/2 cups

2 cups packed dark brown sugar or granulated maple sugar 1/2 cup fine kosher or sea salt 1/4 cup sweet Hungarian paprika 1/4 cup chili powder 1/4 cup ground lemon pepper 1/4 cup granulated garlic 1 tablespoon freshly ground black pepper 1 teaspoon dried basil 1 teaspoon dried thyme In a medium bowl, combine brown sugar, salt, paprika, chili powder, lemon pepper, garlic, black pepper, basil, and thyme. 

A P R I L 14, 2019

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 33

Easter decorating fun for the table

By Pauline Mason Signal Staff Writer

L

ooking for cute or elegant, but very easy and inexpensive ideas for your Easter table? Here are dozens of ideas for great flowers, centerpieces and place cards.

Setting my Easter table is always fun each year. Sometimes we opt for elegant arrangements with flowers and beautifully decorated eggs.

Most of the time though, we get distracted by the wide range of cute Easter products on the market and end up with a table filled with candy, Easter decorations and other objects.

One year, we even decorated the whole table with fluffy chicks … both of the stuffed and marshmellow variety.

Here are a few of my favorite ideas.

Centerpieces

Easter has plenty of creative possibilities when it comes to fun and attractive centerpieces. Easer eggs are

COSTCO

Continued from page 9

has wanted a second Costco.

“It’ll go through a process where everything will be analyzed with a high emphasis on traffic and parking,” he added.

While Crawford emphasized there would still be the usual series of reviews and plans for any project or proposal to look at the potential site for the big-box retailer, a new gym, a luxury theater-restaurant and more, Santa Clarita officials would have plenty to talk about, in addition to the 320 new parking spots near City Hall that are expected to be built as part of the project.

The $100 million proposal, dubbed The Patios Connection, expects to create an additional 486 full-time jobs through direct and indirect impact, as well as generate more than $6 million in annual revenue to city coffers.

This follows on the heels of a $20 million renovation for the Westfield Valencia Town Center, which houses approximately 180 businesses, and is

a primary focus. But, bowls, baskets and other containers full of plain and colored eggs are always popular.

Bunnies are a natural for the Easter table. Ceramic, suffed, chocolate, paper … you name it, you can use it.

Just refrain from the real thing!

Flowers

My husband is a jelly bean addict, and Easter in our household is more about jelly beans thean chocolate bunnies.

considered the city’s second-largest economic generator, with more than 1,000 jobs associated with operations.

The mall’s developer, Unibail-Rodamco-Westfield, expressed excitement over the addition of what marketers consider a new “anchor,” or business draw for the area, as they plan for the gym, theater and Costco to be a big draw to increase shopping in the area, as it has done at other Westfield locations.

“Unibail-Rodamco-Westfield has seen tremendous success with the addition of Costco to other highend centers in both California and Maryland,” said Chris Kitchen, vice president of development for Unibail-Rodamco-Westfield. “We recently conducted a survey at The Village at Topanga, which showed 55 percent of Costco shoppers also visited at least one other destination within the center on the same trip.

Today’s shoppers are looking for everyday conveniences in one location.” 

One of the easiest ways to make a colorful vases to hold flowers is to use jelly beans to fill them. For fake flower arrangements, you can simply fill a large clear or translucentcolored vase with jelly bens and place the plastic stems into the vase.

Use hardy blossoms as napkin rings. Keep them in water before

RING

placing them on the table, or provide a water source for them, such as a small florist’s tube.

Place cards

This year, our place cards are going to be small vases filled with jelly beans and crocuses. We fill the tiny vases with jelly beans and then cut small crocuses from our garden.

We nestle the crocuses in small floral tubes and then insert the tubes in the jelly beans. 

DISTRICT

Continued from page 12

Continued from page 8

about and purchasing Ring products will have a chance on a first-come, firstserve basis.

Prior to the event, residents are encouraged to review full program details and refer to eligible product details by visiting shop.ring.com, and are advised to arrive early. 

School District elected officials and district faculty heard from Gretchen Bergstrom, assistant superintendent of business services for the district, who noted Sulphur Springs’ enrollment numbers stayed relatively steady with only 59 fewer students compared to the previous school year — and the projections call for a decrease of only about 26 students in 2019-20 and 2020-21. 

For questions about the Ring subsidy program, residents may email santaclarita@ring.com.

INSPECTOR

Continued from page 11

“I don’t see any difference between us. We are a very tight unit. The way I see it is, whatever field or profession you choose, you have to be passionate about it. It doesn’t feel like work, this is my second home.”

Turcios said she has had instances where customers question her ability “simply because I am a female, but I know my crew can back me up.”

Today, the city’s new building

inspector takes about 10 assignments daily, mostly in the realm of residential inspections. On days with fewer tasks, she shadows Cook and other building inspectors at larger projects such as the Center at Needham Ranch, a 135-acre business park currently under development just between Highway 14 and downtown Newhall.

While she’s only five months into her new job title, Turcios said she plans on retiring as a senior building inspector one day. 

34 · S U N D AYS I G N A L

A P R I L 14, 2019

HOMEIMPROVEMENT

HOA pool problems, permits to fix your roof

By Robert Lamoureux Signal Contributing Writer

HOA pool problems Hello Robert, I hope this message finds you well.

I enjoy reading your articles in The Signal, and I was hoping to get your input in a matter.

I am on the board of directors for our homeowners association for an 18-unit condominium complex in Newhall.

The HOA is making plans to demolish our swimming pool because most members on the board believe it has low usage, maintenance and repairs are expensive, there is no spa or heater and they think the pool is to shallow to enjoy. (The deepest point is 4 1/2 feet.)

I am the only member on the board who currently lives at the location of the condominium complex. All other owners rent out their properties to tenants.

I am afraid this will lower the value of our property, and that the board members do not understand or really

H

care about the issue because they are not living on the premises. My question is: Can the board of directors make a decision like this? Is there anything you think I could do to stop them from closing down one of the only amenities our complex has to offer? I appreciate you taking the time to read this message.

I hope to hear back from you.

Thank you, — Ruben Ruben, This is more of a legal question for an attorney. Over the years, it’s always been my understanding that common-area amenities cannot be removed without a vote from the membership.

I strongly urge you contact your HOA attorney and get a legal opinion before you do anything like what is being recommended.

Best of luck to you, — Robert Roof fix permit Robert, I live in an older section of Canyon Country and have a garage with a flat roof. I’ve been watching the home improvement stations and learned

that you can purchase prefab trusses to add to the top of a flat roof in order to make it a pitched roof. They sure made it look easy, and we are seriously considering it but need to know if we need to pull permits to do so.

The building and roof are already there, and I’d only be adding the trusses, plywood, paper and shingles, so I don’t think so, but am I correct?

— Nick A. Nick, Absolutely this needs to be permitted.

You would be adding load to the structure and foundation, and you need to be sure that both are able to accommodate the additional weight that would be put upon them.

I’m assuming this is for aesthetics and not storage because that would need to be engineered prior to any drawings.

Remember that the city planning and permits department is there for safety, and there are very specific tasks that need to be done, and done properly, in order to do a job like this, especially with earthquakes in mind.

You will need to provide your plans either from an architect or, if you’re handy, you can prepare a sketch and

plan of what you’d like done. You can present it to the city, and they’ll guide you through the process.

You are correct, these items are available pre-fabricated, you’ll just need to provide your rise and run measurements and anything you’ll be doing with your trusses, and they’ll fabricate and deliver to you.

If you are handy, you can do this work with plenty of help, otherwise I’d leave it to the pros. Make sure that anyone you hire is licensed and insured, and have them purchase the product.

Good luck to you.

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

Email questions to Robert at robert@ imsconstruction.com. 

The right tools for the home renovator bars can be used to pry up wood slats, remove nails or remove old decking.

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Safety glasses Invest in a pair of safety glasses so no one working on a project deals with obstructed vision.

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Remodeling is one of the larger DIY undertakings, and it goes beyond simple carpentry. Considering demolition, reconstruction, electrical, plumbing and masonry work may be part of the DIY package, homeowners, who are thinking about renovations, must first stock up on the tools and other supplies of the trade.

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A P R I L 14, 2019

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 35

SENIORLIVING GETTIN’ UP THERE

The joys and sorrows of loving furry companions

By Diana Sevanian Signal Staff Writer

P

ets, particularly the furry, four—legged kind, can be a potent daily vitamin for seniors. They provide round-the-clock companionship and increased immunity from loneliness, a warm body to snuggle with and talk to, and the vital reward of having a best buddy to care for. Statistically, elders with dogs or cats tend to be healthier, happier, and get more exercise. Especially for seniors who live alone and/or have chronic illnesses, such treasured relationships can be a driving reason for getting out of bed each morning.

A flip side to this harmony, however, often presents itself when a senior becomes caregiver to a chronically or terminally ill pet. Much like the pressures encountered by people providing long—term care for ill/ dying family members, that caregiver stress can pack an even bigger wallop when seniors are already caring for a sick spouse.

In recent years, psychologists and veterinarians have taken note of this pet caregiving dilemma. Recent studies have determined that whether one provides care for a beloved human or precious pet, depression and anxiety, fatigue, and a reduced quality of life, may likely follow.

Sometimes one’s life is a petri dish for writing fodder. Case in point: I’m a Boomer who, for the last eight years, has been coping with the caregiving responsibilities and worries related to having two ill Chihuahuas.

In 2011 my wee brown beauty Shana, developed heart disease and (partial) tracheal collapse. Eventually kidney disease arrived, as did the non-stop seizures that killed her. It was a brutal, complicated journey. She wasn’t “just my dog,” she was my heart’s muse and anchor, the most soulful and sentient pooch I have ever known. When her life ended in 2013 at the age of 12, I felt like part of my

world stopped too.

Not long after Shana died, Teddie, my feisty and formerly independent black and tan Chi moved up in line and became attached to me like a Velcro pixie. One day in 2014 I noticed that she was urinating and drinking water excessively. I knew these could be symptoms of diabetes but told myself that the Dog Gods wouldn’t do this to me/us. Soon after, blood tests confirmed she had sky-high blood sugar and would need special care for the rest of her life. To date that diabetic care has included about 3,000 insulin injections (given every 12 hours), special diabetic food, an uncountable number of blood tests and veterinary/emergency/ specialist visits, a life-threatening bout of pancreatitis, and one grand mal seizure due to her blood glucose crashing on Thanksgiving 2017. As Teddie is a very squirmy “shot-time” dog, she requires one person securely holding her body and head as I pull up her neck (or upper back) skin and carefully inject. Hence, I regularly depend on the arms of family members, friends, and nearby vet techs — every 12 hours. The sweet girl also has heart disease (often seen in diabetic dogs) and requires three heart meds, given twice daily.

Last week, while contemplating a sadness that has been intermittently hovering over me like a pesky drone, I realized that the 24/7 weight of having sick doggies has taken a toll on me.

That cognitive light went off as I read about pet caregiver stress. I instantly saw how my anxiety, blues, and hypercaloric snack attacks “made sense.” Understandably, I have declined many social activities due to the being a caregiving dog-mother.

That can be depressing, too. Another fact: people with ill pets easily max out credit cards. Duh. The financial costs of Teddie’s care over the last four years are a minimum of $10,000.

Shana’s was a similar story — but I’ve never regretted the money spent on these dear partners. My only regret with Shana was that I probably See SENIORS, page 38

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36 · S U N D AYS I G N A L

A P R I L 14, 2019

PROFILE

Seaver serves Henry Mayo and his community

By Michele E. Buttelman Signal Staff Writer

B

orn in the American heartland, Roger Seaver, president and CEO of Henry Mayo Newhall Hospital in Valencia, traveled to California to build his life, and to the Santa Clarita Valley to make a difference.

Beginnings

Seaver was born in a Watertown, South Dakota hospital located 30 miles from his home in Garden Village, S.D. His family owned a 600-acre farm where they grew small grains, corn and soybeans.

“It was a small farm for the area,” said Seaver. In addition to the crops, the family also kept a few dairy cows. “Not a big herd, but the cows required you be home twice a day. It didn’t allow for much travel. Traveling occurred only rarely in my youth.”

Seaver’s family farm was located adjacent to his great-grandfather’s property, which was homesteaded when the Dakota Territory was opened up for settlement in the 1860s. “At one time, there were several Seavers farming in the area,” he said. Today, Seaver and his three brothers moved into careers other than farming. “Nobody in the family is farming now,” he said.

In a trend seen widely across the Midwest, Seaver said his hometown of Garden Village once boasted nearly 200 residents. “Today it probably has 50 people or less,” he said.

U.S. Army Veteran

In 1971, Seaver graduated with a bachelor’s degree from the business school at the University of South Dakota.

“I had made a commitment to the U.S. Army,” he said. After serving as an ROTC cadet, he was inducted into the U.S. Army as an officer, and sent to officer training school at Fort Benning, Georgia. “It was the location for infantry officer training,” he explained.

Then, as luck, or fortune, would have it, President Richard Nixon initiated a reduction of forces in Vietnam.

“It turned out that they didn’t need us, so we were released from training,” Seaver said.

Roger Seaver, Henry Mayo Newhall Hospital president and CEO (left) and emergency medical doctor Darrin Privett, M.D. PHOTO BY DAN WATSON / THE SIGNAL

F.W. Woolworth Co.

Seaver began looking for his first job and found a position in the accounting office of a retail chain located in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.

“It was the central office for the United States, and I spent a few months there auditing retail stores nationally,” he said.

The company, once a dominant presence in the world of retail — internationally and in the U.S. — had a loyal and devoted workforce because they paid employees weekly, in cash, said Seaver.

“That procedure was still in place when I worked there, and I had to audit the stores’ cash,” he said.

Woolworth decided to deploy its auditors in locations across the country and those with the most seniority got the first choice of where they would be sent, said Seaver.

Seaver put in for a transfer to Colorado.

“But the only person senior to me also asked for Colorado,” he said.

Seaver was told if he wanted to move West the company needed a person in California.

“I said as long as it is Northern California that would be great,” he said.

The company told him that Southern California and Arizona had “about four times as many stores” as Northern California.

“I ended up getting transferred to Southern California,” he said.

Seaver had been to the Los Angeles

area to do audits in the past and he knew if he was going to live in Southern California it would be close to the ocean.

“I wanted to be near the ocean where I would have clean air to breathe,” he said. “I chose Huntington Beach.”

He drove to California from Milwaukee on New Year’s Eve day 1972.

Seaver started his California life in 1973 in a newly constructed apartment building in Huntington Beach.

The apartment was larger, and less expensive, than his previous apartment in Milwaukee.

“Not many people moving to California have that experience,” he said.

Lutheran Hospital Society

During his first six months on the job at Woolworth, Seaver estimated he had traveled to nearly half the states in the country.

“When I got to California and found I had to travel out of Southern California three or four times a week, I decided my interest in travel was maxed out,” he said. “I didn’t need that type of job anymore.”

With that insight, Seaver began looking for a job that would keep him close to home. He found that job in the internal audit division of the Lutheran Hospital Society in Los Angeles. “That was my entrée into hospitals and set the course of my career,” he said.

An interesting fact: When Newhall Land donated the 25 acres of land in

Valencia for a new hospital, it also formed an alliance with the Lutheran Hospital Society, an organization with extensive experience developing community not-for-profit hospitals.

For Seaver, the Lutheran Hospital Society provided him with another important life connection, his wife, Rizalina. “I met my wife there,” he said. They married on July 7, 1977 (7/7/77), and have three children.

Plus, they are the proud grandparents of two granddaughters.

Hospital administration

Seaver earned his MBA at Pepperdine University in 1981. He spent 19 years at Glendale Memorial Hospital, working his way up from chief financial officer to chief operating officer to chief executive officer.

His success at Glendale prompted the company to recruit Seaver to take on CEO duties at Northridge Hospital Medical Center in 1997. After a merger with Catholic Healthcare West (now Dignity Health), Seaver left hospital administration for a consulting job in the technology field.

“I realized when I went through the merger that the difference between working at an independent hospital and in a big system is very significant,” Seaver said. “It affects personal enjoyment in the job and the ability to make a difference.”

Henry Mayo

Seaver was named to the position of president and CEO of Henry Mayo Newhall Hospital, on April 1, 2001.

A P R I L 14, 2019

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 37

PROFILE When he learned of the Henry Mayo position, he was already under consideration for the CEO position in the technology company for which he was consulting.

Nevertheless, Seaver said he jumped at the chance to return to hospital administration.

“I have zero regrets about coming to Henry Mayo,” he said. “It has been a fantastic position.”

The community support of the hospital is very rewarding, said Seaver.

Some of that support is evidenced in the success of the upcoming 46th Annual Frontier Toyota/Henry Mayo Newhall Hospital “Drive Safe” Golf Classic.

The May 11 event, to be held at Valencia Country Club, is “an allvolunteer-driven event,” Seaver said.

“It supports important emergency and trauma services for the community.”

In addition, Seaver said the support that Henry Mayo consistently receives from major donors, commu-

nity leaders and the SCV community makes his colleagues in other communities “envious.”

There are so many successes. “The Roberta Veloz Cardiac Cath Lab is a phenomenal resource for the community,” he said. “Our community is being well served by some of the highest skilled cardiologists in the field.”

Henry Mayo Newhall Hospital’s Kim and Steven Ullman Neonatal Intensive Care Unit is another example of individuals making a difference.

The Wayne and Connie Spears Intensive Care Unit and the Sheila R. Veloz Breast Center were also cited

by Seaver as “fantastic” resources for the community that never would have possible without the support of individuals and the community.

“These are special moments for Henry Mayo,” he said. “We are the envy of LA County as a community, and I am happy to be part of it.”

Southern California Hospital Association representing 100-plus hospitals in six counties, and as the 2013 chairman of the California Hospital Association representing 400 hospitals in the state.

“It is important as an independent hospital, to stay in touch with other hospitals so you can know what is going on in healthcare as whole,” he said “It is important to be on the cutting edge, to keep up to date.”

Seaver also enjoys the opportunity to serve on the Santa Clarita Economic Development Corporation. “It is exciting to see the possibilities of developing good jobs for people,” he said. “There is so much going on in the SCV now, and studies have shown that one of the best predictors of good health is going to work. Economic development is important to the physical health of a community.”

Beyond Henry Mayo

Seaver said that many of the hospital employees are SCV residents.

“Our staff lives here in great num-

Seaver said he has been “honored” to serve as the 2009 chairman of the

Touching the SCV

bers, and that means that every day some patient, often more than one, is a neighbor, a relative, a friend, or a friend of a friend, of someone on the staff,” he said. “There are a lot of ‘touches’ on a daily basis with the community.”

Seaver said that working to improve, and build an ever more successful community hospital, like Henry Mayo, is personally satisfying.

“For me to have a career that makes a difference in other people’s lives is thoroughly rewarding, and I enjoy the opportunity to serve,” he said.

“I am proud of the work we do and of the people who are delivering quality health care.”  For volunteer opportunities, visit www.henrymayo.com/community/ volunteer-services. To donate, visit www.henrymayo.com/supporthenry-mayo/giving-opportunities/ ways-to-give/. or call (661) 200-1200.

38 · S U N D AYS I G N A L

A P R I L 14, 2019

HEALTH

Continued from page 21

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PRESCHOOL

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NEWHALL

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readiness. By integrating technology in innovative ways and providing relevance to the real world, we equip your child with the tools they need to think critically, solve problems, persevere and embrace diversity in people and viewpoints. Through our collaborative and nurturing classroom settings and extracurricular programs—such as music and visual arts—your child will thrive intellectually and socially and have a passion for learning and the arts.

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allowed modern veterinary medicine to keep her alive longer than I should have. I know this from looking back at painful videos of her toward the end, and I will selflessly keep that in mind with Teddie.

A veterinary tech recently told me that about one-third of pet-caregiving seniors must rehome (or surrender) their pets when the emotional and financial burdens prove too high, and/or, their own health becomes an issue. May that never happen to us.

I’m taking steps to insure it won’t — stress management, better self-care,

hands-on classroom experience with online course work, offering students more flexibility with their schedules, allowing them to work and manage family life.  Details on the programs are available at http://www.chartercollege.edu/ locations/canyon-country-ca or by calling (661) 252-1864. preschool will have their $50 registration fee waived! Contact us for a tour today!  For more information, contact Cari Byers, preschool director, at cari.byers@northpark.com or (661) 621-6010. with California Distinguished School recognition for all 10 of our schools, and testing scores that exceed local, regional and state results. The support of our dedicated parent and community volunteers has also brought immeasurable value to our schools.

Prospective families are encouraged to come see one of the Newhall School District schools for themselves on Thursday, May 9 at the Spring Open House. Come ready to meet our amazing teachers and staff.

We think you’ll agree with us -- there is a place for your child within the Newhall School District. More information about Spring Open House is available at NewhallSchoolDistrict. com.  and cutting other expenses, are on the to-do list.

While Teddie occasionally doesn’t feel well, most days she’s a spry and happy pup, and eats like a voracious beast. At night she still races to my bed, eager for me to scoop her up so she can nestle under the covers, next to my right hip. I wish I could fall asleep as fast as she does.

I love our life, despite the stress and worries. She is family, a dog bona-fide member of my pack. Like a little canine Centrum, she remains that daily vitamin that I look forward to seeing each morning.  Diana Sevanian is a retired R.N. and longtime Signal features writer and columnist.

A P R I L 14, 2019

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 39

GARDENING

April gardening tips: What works best for gardens, lawns

By Jane Gates Signal Staff Writer

A

s temperatures warm in Santa Clarita, the likelihood of rain dwindles away.

After a year of generous precipitation the sunshine is welcome, but garden plants will need irrigation just as the cost of water rises for the summer. Lawns are the biggest water guzzling part of the landscape. So as you do spring cleaning, consider where, when and how to use your lawn to get the best possible use of your water consumption.

Use lawn as a functional or design element only, not as a way to fill empty space. Then, enliven your chosen lawn areas with a spring tune-up.

Spring cleaning means it’s time to reset your irrigation system so you water slowly and deeply early in the morning before the heat and dry air steals away the moisture. You still don’t need to water heavily yet. Make them appropriate for spring; long enough to thoroughly sink in, but short enough that the water doesn’t wash away.

As temperatures warm and weather begins to dry, it’s time to plant warm-season vegetables into your garden. You can comfortably plant seeds of root crops like carrots, beets, radishes, parsnips and salsify.

Some edible plants can be planted from seed. The slower growers like tomatoes, peppers, tomatillos and eggplant, often do better planted from seed indoors earlier in March or planted now as young plants already started in six-packs or pots. Root vegetables are always better off planted from seed in soil without fresh manure. Manure can cause roots to fork.

Transplanting usually is less successful with these vegetables, so just thin seedlings of root crops, and leave the strongest one in place to grow on.

Grow vegetables in amended soil with plenty of compost. Soil in all parts of Santa Clarita tends to be low in organic matter. It doesn’t matter whether your area is primarily sandy, clay or decomposed gravel.

Build a garden shed and raised vegetable gardens to give you tasty food and decorate your yard.

Make provisions for regular, efficient watering. Most vegetables are not very drought tolerant so make sure they do not dry out. Artichokes are an example of one of the more drought-tolerant vegetables that will grow well here. Water vegetables efficiently by growing them in well-defined, raised gardens or by using carefully designed drip systems.

Give your vegetables at least 6 hours of sunshine and keep your growing area well weeded. Watch carefully for insects like aphids, and hose them off right away before they become an infestation. Avoid planting cool-season vegetables, like head lettuce, cabbages, broccoli and peas.

They no longer have time to reach maturity before they wilt under the coming heat.

Look at the design of your landscape. You may find that areas with little traffic will look better and require less water if you plant them with attractive, low-growing ground cover plants like Dymondia, sedum, festuca grass or other attractive low plantings. Non-living, permeable stone or cement alternatives, like pavers, stepping stones and brick, offer decorative alternatives to plain gravel. Or, convert small open spaces into seating areas, build in a small hot tub, or a fire pit, or fence them in as play areas for kids or pets.

We are at the end of the cool-season garden, so the best time to plant California natives, seed flowers, and woody trees and shrubs is coming to a close.

Lots of herbaceous flowering plants, ornamental grasses and an-

nual flowers will enjoy being planted, divided and transplanted in April.

Potted trees can also be added to your landscape now. All of these will need supplementary watering to help them grow strong before scorching summer sun arrives.

Keep all plants trimmed and cleaned, but wait for autumn for

severe pruning. You can certainly plant and prune whatever you want at any other time of the year, but your chances for success with the big jobs are considerably reduced heading into summer.

One other thing to do this April is to explore our local neighborhoods and enjoy the native flower displays happening on hillsides and ravines everywhere. Due to years of drought, this year’s rain has woken up a storehouse of native wildflowers and set them into a colorful celebration.

They serve as a reminder just how decorative our natural native plants can be. And that you can actually buy seeds for many of them to fill in areas of your yard where you don’t want to spend a lot of time, effort and money in fussing over a garden. Natives can provide amazing color, beauty and ease of care while helping out our local butterflies and bees — all with minimum work. 

Who use code SIGNAL20 upon checkout

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A P R I L 14, 2019

DESIGN

Color is the true catalyst for inspiring design

By Ken Dean Signal Contributing Writer

C

olors from nature have always been an inspiration with its many faces, and it can enliven any interior, any time any place. Color is more than hue, brightness and saturation; it’s also ambient lighting, texture, size, shape, etc.

Interior designers are creating some of the most intriguing and powerful interiors with a wide spectrum of colors. They manipulate the colors like a musical scale creating harmony, sophistication and enhancing architecture.

Color brings out positive vibes in people — it soothes and heals. It brings out human reflexive responses, general physiological responses, and social and cultural responses. People are happier and healthier in their favorite colors.

It’s been observed that nature conditions man to feel most comfortable with a dark-value color beneath his feet, a medium-value surrounding him and a light-value above. This is exemplified in the dark tones of earth, green foliage and a light sky.

In color, it is interesting to note that man has color vision. Most animals see the world in shades of gray, except birds, lizards, turtles and some fish. Man has the most prevalence of color blindness; the inability to distinguish red and green. Therefore, many have a hard time with color, just as infants do not respond to color — only black and white.

So, what is color? Color is lightness and saturation. It is a theory based on the principle that color is light, and therefore, light and color work together. You need the right light for color and, colors need the right light.

When a beam of white light is diffused by means of a crystal prism, a spectrum of the entire range of pure colors is visible to the eye.

Color surrounds us everywhere and is an important part of our lives.

Everything in the world has color. It brings beauty to our clothing, food and environment. Since color is one of the most important and powerful elements in interior design, it should be one of your first considerations in

Drawing on our favorite colors from nature is a great way to choose design elements for your rooms. Colors are also useful in setting the mood.

your starting point.

Where do you start to pick your colors? The flooring? The walls? The fabrics? And how many colors?

Color is a very complex element and there’s so much to know, even when selecting a single color for a room. Planning an intelligent color scheme is much more complicated of a task than just looking at pictures and color chips.

What’s the first thing you notice about a room? The color, which generally determines the mood of that room.

Most people know what colors they like, but are unable to put colors together because colors tend to play tricks with our eyes and seem to change when played one against the other.

Color is never out of style, so don’t be afraid to explore with colors. Forget about the savvy concept of “fad.”

Choose colors and patterns that are timeless, not trendy. Let your colors be daring and romantic.

Color adds excitement to shapes, textures and materials. Color creates an environment and helps us stratify culture. When we see color in a finished room, we see it both vertically and horizontally, it comes at us from all angles.

Remember that colors are different in sunlight, incandescent lighting and fluorescent lighting. Be sure to view colors during the day and at night time.

Also, colors tend to change tones.

Beige may turn pinkish, tan goes lighter and darker, and whites go from stark white to blue, gray, etc.

Color is a two-edged sword that cuts both ways. Picking colors improperly can bring about discord and imbalance, whereas properly picked colors bring harmony and equilibrium. Choose few colors, rather than many. The ideal house has areas of both light and dark colors.

Light, whether daylight or artificial, is the determining factor for “true color.” Since light modifies colors we should be sure that the color we select, whether in paint colors, fabrics or flooring, it’s seen in the light where it will live. Color will often seem to shade from one wall to another, or even one part of the wall to another part, because the light hits the surfaces differently. Color allows you to communicate your individuality and create the environment that says, “You!” It puts you into your personalized comforting zone.

In picking colors, there are many choices: bright colors, mellow colors, neutral colors and dramatic colors.

White is a good neutral color to accent around, with jewel tones or bold tones. Reds and blues, in accessories, are great accent colors for kitchens.

Use light colors to make a small room appear bigger, use darker colors to make a big room more cozy and intimate. And yet, dark colors used in small rooms can also create a dramatic effect.

For a vibrant color scheme — although it is not for everyone — venture toward the jewel tones of red-orange, blue-purple, yellow-gold and blue-and-green teals.

In creating your environment that is comfortable for all members of the family with your color palette, remember color and light must have balances and harmony. You must have a design that’s good and lasting.  Ken Dean is an award-winning professional interior designer, interior design teacher and writer for 40 years.

His website is www.deaninteriordesign. com. He can be reached at (661) 2510170.

A P R I L 14, 2019

Give your mind a workout with these brainy exercises!

BRAINGAMES

Relax

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 41

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CROSSWORD TIME

A P R I L 14, 2019

THE VILLAGE IDIOT

Love it to death

By Jim Mullen Signal Contributing Writer

T

here is a spot about an hour and a half from where I live that is stunning in its natural beauty. I spend many weekends there, hiking its many trails, seeing an incredibly beautiful vista at almost every turn.

It is a rare national treasure that has, for one reason or another, been able to stay out of the limelight.

Compared to over-popular sites like Yosemite, Yellowstone and the Grand Canyon, this place is downright primitive. There are no traffic jams to fight on the way there. There are no RV hookups, no real campgrounds, just a pull-off every now and then.

The parking spots are few, far between, and usually empty. There are no toilets, no visitors’ center.

While hiking, I am usually with one or two friends. We regularly see wild animals, usually of the non-dangerous nature, but we also see snakes and evidence of bears and big cats. We rarely see another human. Sometimes we’ll pass a tent or two. This spot attracts birdwatchers, rock climbers and experienced hikers.

I will never, ever tell you where this place is, or give you its name, because then you would come. And you would love it to death.

Not you personally, but people would come, and pretty soon it would be as crowded and unpleasant as every other “wilderness” spot in the country. It wouldn’t be enough just to see this place; new visitors would want to build second homes there that look like log cabins. But giant log cabins, ones so big that they’d require cooks, housecleaners and handymen to keep the place up. And then these newcomers would let their grandchildren come, and buy them noisy ATVs and dirt bikes so their little feet would never have to touch the ground, and then they would complain that the closest big box store is two hours away and why doesn’t someone build one nearby?

Say, right in the middle of the beautiful valley, where it would be much

more convenient for everyone.

I’ve lived in some beautiful places in my life and I’ve seen them all loved to death. You could probably name several similar places yourself, even if it’s only that trashy, empty lot down the street where you used to play pick-up ball before it was turned into an ugly apartment building with parking out front.

A recent news story illustrates the point perfectly. After a yearlong drought, California finally got a decent amount of rain this spring. The desert responded, like everyone else, with joy. Giant fields of long-dormant wild poppies bloomed in the desert, causing traffic jams of people who came to see the increasingly rare event. So far, so good.

Then some real nature lovers showed up in a helicopter, landing it in the midst of the poppies. As if destroying most of the poppies with the prop wash from the copter wasn’t bad enough, the passengers hopped out and started trampling the few flowers the helicopter hadn’t already destroyed. What a beautiful, natural experience that must’ve been.

Learn from this: If you find a special place, keep it to yourself. Don’t tell a soul. Better yet, invent reasons why people should NOT visit. Instead of waxing lyrical about your special place, you should be telling tales that would make people go miles out of their way to avoid it.

When I hear that someone wants to visit my secret place, I try to look as sad as possible and say things like, “If only they hadn’t turned it into an open-air nuclear waste dump. I guess the government thought the giant burning tire fire would cover up what they’re doing over there, but you can see the smoke for miles. You get one sniff of it and all your food tastes like burning rubber for a week. And, of course, it was a shame about what happened to those people caught in the quicksand last week. You do have bear repellent, don’t you?”  Contact Jim Mullen at mullen.jim@ gmail.com.

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