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2021 CAMPS & SCHOOLS GUIDE Inside

APRIL 25, 2021

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THE STORY BEHIND THE BABY BUST

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A P R I L 25, 2021

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 3

4 · S U N D AYS I G N A L

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A P R I L 25, 2021

TABLE OF CONTENTS NEWS FEATURES

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FROM THE MAYOR

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5 6 7 8

Why COVID-19 didn’t deliver a ‘baby boom’ Summer camps return to the Santa Clarita Valley How the arts can help us get back to normal Richard develops film with a focus on people

9 ‘Grand Theft Auto’ prevention tips for the spring

FOOD 10 1 0 Family meals cooked with convenience in mind Honey Soy Chicken Stir-Fry Barbecue Ranch Breaded Chicken Tacos

ENTERTAINMENT 11 11 Oscar predictions with some predictables

BEAUTY 12 12 Comfortable, yet stylish, shoe trends to try

SENIOR LIVING

13

HOME

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13 Evaluating senior’s biggest expenses 14 How families can comfortably share close quarters

Selina Thomas SCV’s HR Guru “She makes your business her business.”

GARDENING 15 15 What works best for spring gardens and lawns

TECHNOLOGY 16 16 Social media challenges can be fun, but caution is necessary

FOCUS ON EDUCATION

17

2021 CAMPS AND SCHOOLS GUIDE

26

KIDS & FAMILY

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25 Focus on Education Directory 30 Camps and Schools Directory

3 1 Donna’s Day: Family fresh key lime pie Junior Whirl • Did You Know?

PUZZLES 32 OPINION 33

Cary Quashen’s The Real Deal Substance abuse stories and advice

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A P R I L 25, 2021

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 5

N E W S F E AT U R E

Why COVID-19 couldn’t deliver a ‘baby boom’

By Caleb Lunetta Signal Staff Writer

C

OVID-19 changed the world like few events in recent memory, and prompted tons of speculation about the potential for a “baby boom,” due to the number of couples together with little in the ways of options for things to do.

The reality, however, according to a number of experts, is that the number of “quarantine babies” was actually fewer than in recent years.

“Some people said, ‘Aha! All these folks are going to be at home and have nothing better to do but make babies,” said Dowell Myers, a professor at USC’s Price School of Public Policy.

“Of course, that was not their mood at all … there’s never been a rise in birth rate because of a disaster. Like I said, that’s just an urban legend.”

Local

There was definitely no baby boom at Henry Mayo, according to local hospital officials.

“Our volume of births was strong prior to the pandemic, particularly in the months after we opened our new Center for Women and Newborns, and has remained strong throughout the pandemic, but we have yet to see a notable increase in births,” said Lori Matzner, Henry Mayo Newhall Hospital’s director of maternal and child health services. “It’s difficult to project what the next few months will bring, although national projections call for a slight decline in births overall.”

Overall, Matzner said the local hospital had seen huge differences in the ways in which babies were born over the course of the pandemic.

“The big difference, of course, was the limitation on visitors due to COVID-19 (one partner or coach per patient, recently raised to two visitors per patient),” said Matzner.

“Also, for women coming to Henry Mayo to deliver who tested positive for COVID-19, we were fortunate to have space that allowed us to set up a separate, isolated unit for these patients.”

National Baby Boom?

While Santa Clarita’s local hospital may not have changed much in terms

Hala Safar holds her newborn son, Christian Ryan Mebarkeh, as the boy’s father, Raed Mebarkeh, kisses him. Christian was the first baby born at Henry Mayo Newhall Hospital in 2019. While there was speculation that all the time indoors might have led to a quarantine-related baby boom, the data demonstrated that wasn’t really the case. SIGNAL PHOTO

of the number of babies they delivered over the past year, the care center appears to have been an anomaly.

California experienced a 10% dip in births in the month of December in 2020, which would have given enough time for babies to have been born given that the stay-at-home order for the state was issued March 19, according to Robert Wonser, a sociologist at College of the Canyons.

“If you’re at that age where you’re thinking about having kids, there’s uncertainty, maybe from not having a job, and there’s all these sorts of insecurities that come along with a global pandemic,” said Wonser. It’s not exactly easy to get into the mood under such conditions, and there’s also a concern about the environment for the child.

“So, with all that stuff going on, you’re going to see a decline,” said Wonser.

Both Myers and Wonser agreed that while the internet and non-expert pundit culture liked to joke about the potential for a baby boom

last year, historical events, such as the 1918 Spanish Flu pandemic and the 1977 blackout in New York, did not result in baby booms.

“People don’t have babies unless they’re optimistic about the future,” said Myers. “They have to have a sense that ‘I have a paycheck; I have a place to live’ and they have a sense that the country will survive the disaster. And so, we’ve had really bullish periods, the 1950’s are very strong.”

Myers added that for the past number of years, following the Great Recession and the last two administrations, optimism continued to decrease, and affordability for younger generations to start families became more and more difficult to attain.

“Affording rents, affording homes to buy, pessimistic about the career outlook, their student loan debt,” said Meyers. “All of those are things that have been waying more and more heavily on young adults.”

Chance of recovery?

However, Meyers noted, all that doesn’t mean we might not still see a

baby boom somewhat influenced by the current environment.

“There was a lot of negativity that young people were taking the brunt of,” said Meyers. “But young people seem to be quite happy with the new mood in the country. But also, there will be an economic revival and everything lines up positive for not a surging number, but it’s going to be 10% higher than it was before the pandemic.”

Meyers used the example of the Roaring 1920s that had followed the 1918 pandemic and World War I, a period of technological and social change, euphoria in the stock market and there was a catchup in the early part of the decade for the next five years.

However, while admitting there were some parallels between the two, he said the situation in America is different than it was then and that does not mean it will necessarily follow the same pattern. He said the child credit benefit for kids, along with other additives being posed for young families by the new presidential administration, could aid in the decision to start having children or have more children, but it still remains hard for the current generation of young people to have kids.

Matzner noted that there had been an “exuberance to be alive” in the 1920s and then again in the 1950s — both of which led to relative booms in the number of children born. But he also agreed with Meyers that context was important, and trends over the last decade show people having kids and committing to marriages later in their lives change how we can perceive if there will be a recovery.

“So, there’s sort of an underlying current that woven throughout our discussion that are these births just being delayed, or are these births that will now never happen?” said Matzner. “And that’s an interesting question because nobody can say for sure, but I would suspect that there will be some births that never happened that otherwise would have.” 

6 · S U N D AYS I G N A L

A P R I L 25, 2021

N E W S F E AT U R E

Summer camps return to the Santa Clarita Valley

By Caleb Lunetta Signal Staff Writer

A

fter what was a tumultuous year of cancelations and pauses for a number of local activities and events, another time-honored tradition has once again returned to the Santa Clarita Valley: summer camps.

From arts and crafts in the park to paddleboarding at Castaic Lake, Santa Clarita Valley summer camps have reopened their registration lists.

“This is one of those vital programs that the community has come to rely on in the summer,” said Lance O’Keefe, recreation and community services manager for the city. “Kids have enjoyed every year they come back; and every day they come back asking to go again the next day. So, it really is what makes us special is that we’re doing it.”

Not only have their registrars of future campgoers filled up quickly, but the waitlists have, as well, according to O’Keefe and a handful of other camp organizers throughout the SCV. Officials attributed it to the lack of camps last year as a result of COVID-19, but said the eagerness of families to have their kids returning to normalcy, enjoying the outdoors and socializing with their friends once again resulted in a massive demand for the summer programs.

Camp organizers also noted some of their activities and programs will look a little different this year, in order to ensure everyone’s safety in the course of having fun.

Why summer camp?

Local camp organizers expressed this week their strong belief that attending a summer camp, regardless of age or background, can be a foundational time in any kid’s life.

“Especially coming out of a pandemic, it gives children the opportunity to socialize, to make new friends, to play outside,” said Jennifer Lindstrom, a recreation supervisor for the city of Santa Clarita. “It’s a great opportunity, especially as kids may be transitioning to schools to meet friends in the area that they wouldn’t know otherwise.”

“As a father myself … and to watch both my children go through this

Recreation assistant Collin Creo, left, races with day-campers at Santa Clarita Park. PHOTO BY DAN WATSON / THE SIGNAL

experience, not being able to be with their friends, not being able to do normal activities, finally things are now opening up and starting to get back into a kind of normalcy,” said Steve Himes, a senior lake lifeguard with Los Angeles County and the director of the Junior Lifeguard program at Castaic Lake. ”This program, I think, will bring the community back together even stronger and faster.”

Camp organizers said the process to ensure that camps would happen this summer has been slightly more difficult than it has in past years, but said the fruits of their labor or shown when the kids are engaging with the program, exploring nature and/or enjoying their time amongst one another.

“They do arts and crafts, they’ll do games outside, they’ll do some sort of water activities,” said O’Keefe. “It’s an all-day summer camp just like we would normally have.”

Safety

Camp organizers have said they’’ work hard to ensure they’re in accordance with all the safety standards, such as decreasing class sizes.

Lindstrom, who is organizing the city’s Camp Clarita this year, said camp staff will not be requiring their campers to provide proof of vaccination, but said strict mask requirements would be enforced for everyone.

“There’s many organizations out there that are still trying to figure it out, but we have created the plan, put in the safety protocols, all to

make this happen for the kids,” said O’Keefe.

Some changes to the usual itinerary have been made by summer camps to accommodate for the safety protocols, such as city staff saying they will not be taking the older kids on the usual field trip.

“We can’t do field trips right now, but we’re working on doing more activities and hiring instructors to come in and do specialty activities for the kids, instead of doing the field trip,” said O’Keefe.

The junior lifeguard program, which has been held at Castaic Lake every summer for decades, will not be doing their usual beach trip to meet up with other kids and instructors from other lifeguard programs outside of the SCV, and while at the beach kids will need to stay in their pods.

However, these changes, in addition to having a shorter time frame in order to accommodate for more groups of kids participating this summer, will not only improve the safety for everyone involved, but will also not affect the quality of the program, Himes said.

“The safety aspects from this pandemic, we understand it, we are modifying to keep up with it and making sure that the kids are safe,” said Himes. “But just being able to participate and get your heart rate back up, have fun with fellow kids during the summer like it used to is what needs to happen and we’re excited to be part

of bringing that back.”

Logistics and Sign Ups

Both Camp Clarita and the Castaic junior lifeguard program have already opened their signups to the public and many of the programs have already been filled. However, camp organizers insisted on the importance of striking out and finding other nearby programs, or open county-run camps, that can provide the same type of memories for resident’s kids.

For example, the county said in a press release regarding their junior lifeguard program that they will be offering three 2-week sessions at Castaic Lake Recreation Area, Frank G. Bonelli Regional Park and Santa Fe Dam Recreation Area.

“We have had a lot of success, following all of the guidelines, in order to operate the program successfully and in that we’ve had children who have had the opportunity to have a great experience, to socialize while maintaining physical distancing, to have fun and to engage in activities,” said Lindstrom, when talking about the after-school programs she’s helped coordinate throughout the past year. “And so, we’re really looking forward to being able to offer that to children on a broader scale this summer.”

For more information about Camp Clarita, visit their website at http:// campclarita.com. For more information about the junior lifeguard program, visit http://parks.lacounty.gov/ juniorlifeguards. 

A P R I L 25, 2021

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 7

N E W S F E AT U R E

How the arts can help us get back to normal

By Kev Kurdoghlian Signal Staff Writer

T

he arts give people a way to connect with each other, according to Phil Lantis, the city of Santa Clarita’s arts director, but they aren’t always seen that way.

“Any human turns to the arts as it becomes this way to process either your own emotions or having someone share with you their point of view or various points of view,” Lantis said. “And it allows you to process things and it allows you to kind of do some of that work, both mentally and emotionally, that needs to happen.”

Lantis has seen that work unfold in Santa Clarita during the pandemic. He’s excited for the possibilities that await as society emerges from the pandemic. “(The arts) are very well-positioned coming out of the pandemic, hopefully as we transition out, to really be appreciated on another level than they were before,” he said.

One way Santa Clarita will use the arts to process more than one year of pandemic is through arts education, according to Lantis.

“There’s a lot of conversation about utilizing the arts for in education as a tool to help students be able to process their emotions process their emotions and stuff,” he said, noting the city and local organizations are in the early stages of elevating arts in education.

In 2016, the city approved an arts master plan that called for arts education among other initiatives to support the Santa Clarita community engage with the arts.

Lantis said the city is advancing that work through conversations with the County of Los Angeles Department of Arts and Culture, CalArts and College of the Canyons.

“The pandemic has actually completely changed how we’re going to approach this because the role of arts in education is really changing,” said Lantis, noting that their working group will soon invite local school districts to participate in the conversation.

The arts can help students process not only the pandemic, Lantis said, but also the Saugus school shooting in November 2019.

“The arts can be a crucial part, not the only part,” he said. “We’re hopeful that the discussion will be a little different than we originally imagined and the outcomes will be much more impactful for the students.”

College of the Canyons Performing Arts Center Director Jennifer Smolos recognized the vital role the arts will play as society recovers from the pandemic.

“As we emerge from the pandemic, I anticipate that we will experience a collective desire to deepen our understanding of and engagement with the world around us,” Smolos wrote in a prepared

Famed London cabaret singer Ruth Allen performs at a special one-off show at the Canyon Theatre Guild in Newhall. Arts education, theater performances and musical shows are just a few of the ways the city hopes that the arts will come back big in 2021. SIGNAL PHOTO

statement. “The interdisciplinarity of our fields requires ever-evolving styles, specific skills and tools within those styles and a collaborative spirit.

The arts can and do heal — I look forward to once again reconnecting in art galleries, concert halls and theaters.”

Healing is taking place at Impulse Music Co., too, where the music store’s co-owner C.J. Hockenbury has seen the public’s interest in music peak like never before.

“Everybody is just kind of gravitating towards music because it’s a part of our daily lives more than people realize,” Hockenbury said. “It’s a skill that just goes with you forever even if you don’t become a professional.”

The Santa Carlita store, which opened on Soledad Canyon Road in the middle of the pandemic, offers open mic nights and lessons for people of all ages.

“Kids that we used to have issues with in the past, they’re all for it now,” he said. “They just want to play music because they’re like, ‘Yeah, I haven’t done anything; yeah, I want to play.’”

Hockenbury has also seen the pandemic inspire a deeper level of engagement in music.

“They’re really starting to get into writing. I think that’s more of a transitional step that I’ve seen more during COVID than anything else, is that people are writing like crazy,” he said. “They’re starting to figure out how to put their thoughts down on paper, even if they’re not putting in words, you know, expressing themselves.”

A yearning for the arts can be found center stage in the theater, too. John Lucewich works with kids ages 10 through 17 as a workshop instructor at the Canyon Theatre Guild in Newhall.

“What I’ve seen in them is missing the arts. They miss the theater immensely,” he said of his students, who continued to improve their acting skills through virtual experiences during the pandemic.

“So one benefit of doing the workshops is it’s kept that social interaction, and it’s kept creativity and that spark has been alive.”

Lucewich said the virtual platform has allowed some students who have moved away from Santa Clarita due to the pandemic to continue acting and connecting with their friends at the theater.

“Another cool benefit we’ve seen is a lot of our kids have the opportunity to basically design their own set and (do) their own makeup design, which is an extra layer of work for them, but it’s also an extra layer of creativity,” he said.

Parents, students and instructors alike are eager to return to in-person workshops and shows at the Canyon Theatre Guild, Lucewich said.

I’m very optimistic about summer if things continue to go as well as (they’re) going. I can see us returning for in-person workshops in the summertime with some safety protocols in place,” he said. “ With the darkness that has been 2020, and the pandemic and the lockdowns, these workshops for many have been a shining light.”

Impulse Music Co. Is located at 21515 Soledad Canyon Road, No. 120, Santa Clarita. It can be reached at (661) 259-5397.

For upcoming information on shows at the Santa Clarita Performing Arts Center, visit www3.canyons. edu/Offices/PIO/CanyonsPAC/Calendar/shows. html.

Canyon Theatre Guild is located at 24242 Main St., Newhall. It can be reached at (661) 7992702. 

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A P R I L 25, 2021

N E W S F E AT U R E

Richard develops film with focus on people

By Perry Smith Sunday Signal Editor

N

estled near the center of the Santa Clarita Valley, by Bowman High School and Congregation Beth Shalom, Richard Photo Lab stands as one of the few remaining bastions of film, where enthusiasts and professionals alike can still learn and develop.

The facility’s storied fables began in Hollywood, according to current owner Brian Greenberg, who purchased the photo-development and framing lab back in 2005 when it was located in Hollywood, and moved it to its current location after spending about six years in Valencia.

While digital photography has significantly changed the landscape for film for the last 20 years, Greenberg and his team enjoy serving the needs of amateur enthusiasts, event professionals and marketing campaigns that rely on the look, feel and process that true aficionados know that only film can provide.

“We are still one of the largest film processors in the world,” Greenberg said during a recent phone interview. “Even though we’re small, because (the film market) has definitely shrunk … we’re probably still top-five largest film scanners, film processors — and we get film in every day from all over the world.”

And due to a combination of the facility’s expertise, as well as a resurgence in the use of film in recent years — for a number of reasons — Richard and company enjoy working with a growing community of enthusiasts, artists and professionals who truly care about the quality that the lab can create on film.

“If there are people in the photo, there are a lot of photographers that prefer to shoot film,” he added, “and certainly in the last five years or so, film sales have been on the rise.”

Capturing the moment

The film market is said to have hit its peak in 2003, but media experts have noticed a yearslong trend of increasing film usage. A 2017 Time article featured a Fujifilm executive noting the current level of film use was rising, while the number of rolls developed each year was about 2% of its 960 million-roll peak.

Greenberg reminisced about when he had Richard Photo Lab when it was so common to develop film, it wouldn’t be uncommon for his La Brea and Beverly location to receive visits from Hollywood luminaries like Sophia Loren, who were not only the type of celebrity they’d be developing photos of, but also their potential walk-in clientele.

Despite shifting demands, Greenberg said the Richard Photo Lab niche largely serves photographers seeking the unique quality film offers in its ability to capture people, which digital filters have

Left: Michelle, an employee at Richard’s Photo Lab, scans film into their computer system to prepare it for printing. Above: Fellow employee Anna Flores packs completed prints for the lab’s clients. The facility, which is located off Centre Pointe Parkway, develops film from all over the world. PHOTOS BY BOBBY BLOCK / THE SIGNAL

been unable to duplicate.

“There’s still a large community of professionals that prefer to shoot on film, for a wide variety of reasons,” Greenberg said, “but mainly the look at what film does with skin tone (is why it) still is their preferred method of shooting. And when you get really into the side-by-side comparison … that’s really why there’s people that still shoot film,” he said, noting for keepsakes like portraits, major events, as well as commercial shoots that have people in them, some of the biggest photographers will still insist on film.

But it’s not just about the final look at Richard, Greenberg said, it’s also about providing a number of services for photographers who are not just looking to shoot as many pictures as possible and hope they end up with something that works. The process of development, as well as the cost to some degree, prompts a different degree of deliberation for the photographers they work with, which Richard seeks to support.

Behind-the-lens perspective

The appeal of using film for many isn’t just in the outcome, it’s for the process behind the photography for many photographers, according to Colleen Ashley, creative manager at Richard Photo Lab. She finds film photography something she enjoys using when she takes photos of her young daughter, or when she’s looking to capture family in a special “keeper” moment, she said.

“And again,” Ashley said, “the slowdown and the thoughtfulness that goes into each frame that you’re taking, you know, you can’t just … click

through the entire roll.”

For Josh Premako, who enjoys photography as a hobby but also shoots events and portraits professionally, a place like Richard not only allows him to get the most out of his pictures in a way that doesn’t happen if you happen to find a Costco or pharmacy that still develops film.

“The truth is, the process really does force you to think a little bit more consciously about the images you’re creating,” said Premako, appreciative of the higher standard that a facility like Ricahrd offers.

“They’re taking a lot of care fpr what they’re doing,” he said, adding that if he has questions about how a particular type of film would work with a specific camera, it’s really helpful to have a local resource where he could go and ask questions and receive help.

Richard also hosts events to support the community of photographers using film, Ashley said, which more recently has been accomplished with virtual events, such as “Film Happy Hour,” which she hosts on the lab’s Instagram account, @RichardPhotoLab. “We do talk a lot about what’s the best way to get the results that you want, which is absolutely talking to us telling us when you’re happy and when you’re not happy,” Ashley said, noting the discussions cover the business side of things, also.

“Ultimately, if our photographers stay in business, we stay in business,” Ashley said, “so their success is our success.”

Richard Photo Lab is located at 21515 Centre Pointe Parkway, and can be reached at (661) 2005300. 

A P R I L 25, 2021

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 9

F R O M T H E M AY O R

‘Grand Theft Auto’ prevention tips for spring

By Bill Miranda Santa Clarita City Mayor

T

he birds are out, the bees are buzzing and Spring is in full swing here in beautiful Santa Clarita. The Safer at Home orders of the past year have slowly been lifted, and I, as I’m sure many of you are, have delighted in the chance to go out and enjoy our community once again. There’s nothing quite like visiting your favorite boutique store or eating at one of the many delicious restaurants Santa Clarita has to offer.

The life-changing pandemic that besieged the world the past year has had some positive effects — such as showing our community’s resilience as many of us came together to support one another during this difficult time. Sadly, one of the unintended consequences of the stay-at-home orders was an increase in vehicle thefts, which is why the City of Santa Clarita is partnering with the Santa Clarita Valley Sheriff ’s Station in launching the new “Guard That Auto” campaign. Although our theft rate has remained well below the state average, it is important to follow some simple guide-

lines to help us all “Guard That Auto.” By following these simple tips, you can help protect your car.

Remember to keep your keys inside your home and out of your car. Because Santa Clarita has always been such a safe City to live in, it is easy to feel insulated from the reality of vehicles being stolen. Leaving your keys in your car is an invitation to crooks to take off with your car. Many of us also have a tendency to keep spare keys in our cars,

in case the original is lost while we are out … this is not a wise idea. Please keep all of your keys with you and know where they are at all times.

While it is always a good idea to be mindful of your surroundings, paying special attention to where you park your car is another way to help keep it safe. By parking in your garage, in your driveway, a parking spot in a high-traffic area, under a street light or other well-lit areas are all great ways to keep your vehicle safe. Using a theft protection device, like the Club, is another simple yet effective method that decreases the chance of theft and won’t break the bank.

There’s nothing pleasant about having the things we hold dear to us stolen, but we can all do our best to minimize the chance of this happening. To learn more about how you can “Guard That Auto,” please visit santa-clarita.com/GTA or follow the Santa Clarita Sheriff ’s station and The City of Santa Clarita’s social media accounts.

Mayor Bill Miranda is a member of the Santa Clarita City Council and can be reached at bmiranda@ santa-clarita.com. The views expressed in his column are those of the City and do not necessarily reflect those of The Signal. 

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A P R I L 25, 2021

FOOD

Family meals cooked with convenience in mind

P

art of the fun of family meals is finding inspiration in the variety of dinner ideas you can create together. From a tangy twist on traditional tacos to a favorite togo flavor in the comfort of your own kitchen, the options are nearly endless when you use versatile, ready-to-use ingredients.

When you include protein that’s prepared, seasoned and precooked, you can cut down on time in the kitchen, while adding precious seconds to spend with loved ones. For example, Chef ’s Craft® Gourmet Chicken offers a line of gluten-free, preservative-free, all-natural chicken skillfully crafted by experts and perfectly suited for culinary creations. The varieties are always fresh and perfect for preparing in 30 minutes or less. They can be enjoyed on their own or in an array of family dishes.

Consider these Barbecue Ranch Breaded Chicken Tacos to call loved ones to the table with chunks of tender chicken piled high with homemade spicy vinegar slaw, fried onions and avocado drizzled with barbecue sauce and ranch dressing.

Or, for a taste of takeout you can make in your own home, turn to Honey Soy Chicken Stir-Fry. If you don’t own a wok, don’t fret — this dish can easily be made in a skillet. Just be sure to give the veggies enough room as a crowded skillet is likely to result in steamed veggies. (Family Features) 

Honey Soy Chicken Stir-Fry

Barbecue Ranch Breaded Chicken Tacos

Prep time: 15 minutes Cook time: 15 minutes Total time: 30 minutes Serves: 4

Servings: 4

Spicy Vinegar Slaw

2 1/2 cups shredded purple cabbage 1/2 cup shredded carrot 2 jalapenos, thinly sliced 1 1/2 tablespoons canola or vegetable oil 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar 1 teaspoon sugar

kosher salt

freshly ground black pepper

Honey Soy Glaze

1/2 cup chicken broth 1/2 cup soy sauce 6 tablespoons honey 1/2 teaspoon granulated garlic 1/2 teaspoon dried ground ginger 4 teaspoons cornstarch 3 teaspoons water 2 tablespoons canola or vegetable oil 1 large yellow onion, sliced 3 bell peppers, sliced 1 large zucchini, sliced 4 ounces snow peas 10 ounces sliced mushrooms 2-3 cups broccoli florets, steamed to tender crisp 1 package Chef’s Craft(r) Chicken Breast Fillets, cooked according to package directions, sliced

sesame seeds, for garnish To make honey soy glaze In small saucepan over medium heat, combine chicken broth, soy sauce, honey, garlic and ginger. Bring to simmer.

In small bowl, combine cornstarch

Barbecue Ranch Breaded Chicken Tacos

and water; stir into honey soy sauce and let cook approximately 1 minute, stirring occasionally, until sauce thickens.

In large skillet or wok over medium-high heat, heat oil. Add onion, pepper and zucchini; cook 2-3 minutes. Add snow peas and mushrooms; cook 2 minutes until vegetables are crisp tender but maintain texture.

Add broccoli and chicken to pan; stir all but 3 tablespoons sauce; cook 1 minute, stirring frequently. Drizzle with remaining sauce and garnish with sesame seeds. (Family Features) 

Fried Onions

canola or vegetable oil, for frying 1/2 cup all-purpose flour

kosher salt

freshly ground black pepper 1 yellow or Vidalia onion, cut into 1/4-inch slices 8 taco-sized flour tortillas, warmed 1 package Chef’s Craft(r) Breaded Chicken Chunks, cooked according to package directions

spicy vinegar slaw 1 avocado, chopped

fried onions 1/2 cup barbecue sauce 1/2 cup ranch dressing

chopped cilantro (optional)

To make spicy vinegar slaw: In medium mixing bowl, combine cabbage, carrot and jalapenos.

In separate small bowl, whisk oil, vinegar and sugar; season generously with salt and pepper.

Drizzle over coleslaw mix and stir to combine. Let sit at least 10 minutes before serving.

To make fried onions: In small skillet over medium-high heat, heat 1/2 inch oil.

In small bowl, season flour well with salt and pepper. Coat onion slices in flour mixture and shake to remove excess flour.

Fry in batches until golden brown and crisp, about 30-45 seconds per batch. Remove to paper towel-lined plate and immediately sprinkle with salt.

Top each tortilla with cooked breaded chicken chunks, spicy vinegar slaw, chopped avocado, fried onions, barbecue sauce and ranch dressing.

Garnish with cilantro, if desired.

Find more quick, convenient family meal ideas, visit chefscraftgourmet. com. (Family Features) 

A P R I L 25, 2021

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 1 1

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

Oscar predictions with some predictables

By Richard Roeper Signal Contributing Writer

W

ith the Oscars airing Sunday night, here’s a question for you: What do the following movies have in common?

• “Blade Runner” (1982) • “Catch Me If You Can” (2002) • “Charlie’s Angels: Full Throttle” (2003) • “The Dark Knight Rises” (2012) • “Hail, Caesar!” (2016) • “The Italian Job” (2003) • “Pearl Harbor” (2001) No, they’re not all Academy Award winners — “Charlie’s Angels: Full Throttle” got robbed! — but they all made use of LA’s Union Station as a filming location, though not always as a train station. In “The Dark Knight Rises,” it was the courthouse where Scarecrow tried Bane’s enemies; in “Blade Runner,” it was a police station; in “Catch Me If You Can,” it was the Miami Mutual Bank.

On April 25, Union Station will have perhaps its most unusual role ever, as the primary site for the 93rd annual Academy Awards, which will have no host, a downsized crowd, and yes, a video chat component.

There’s even a change to the ballot this year. Instead of the usual 24 categories, we’ll have 23, as the sound editing and sound mixing awards have been combined into one category: the Academy Award for sound. This was done to reflect the current state of that particular art, with editing and mixing, well, often mixing and overlapping.

I’ve filled out my ballot. As usual, there are some prohibitive favorites, most notably Chadwick Boseman to win a posthumous best actor award for his brilliant and bold and heartbreaking performance in “Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom,” and Chloe Zhao to win best director for “Nomadland,” which remains the front-runner in the best picture category.

But even in best picture, which has eight nominees and thus makes it more likely for an underdog to slip across the finish line first, there’s an outside chance Aaron Sorkin’s “The Trial of the Chicago 7” could pull off the upset. It’s the kind of traditional,

CalArts alum and director Pete Docter received a nomination with fellow producer Dana Murray for the Pixar feature “Soul,” a comedy-drama that was also nominated for Best Original Score and Best Sound. PHOTO COURTESY PIXAR

historical message-movie that wins awards. (It’s also damn good and spiritually faithful to events, and though Sorkin won’t win for his direction, he could win another Oscar for his screenplay.)

Let’s take a look at the glamour categories.

Best picture

In the case of stellar works such as “The Father,” “Sound of Metal,” “Judas and the Black Messiah,” “Mank” and “Promising Young Woman,” it really is an honor just to be nominated. As mentioned, “Nomadland” remains the heavy favorite at -600 on the online betting sites (meaning that if you were inclined to wager, you’d have to bet $600 to win $100), but “Chicago 7” has an outside chance.

And if you’re looking for a real upset, “Minari,” at 12-1, just might capture enough hearts and minds of voters.

Best director

It will be an enormous upset if anyone but Chloe Zhao (“Nomadland”) wins. It WAS an enormous upset when director Thomas Vinterberg was nominated for his dark comedy “Another Round,” but it’s great to see a spotlight shining on this Danish film, which is nominated for best international feature film and should win.

Best actor

Anthony Hopkins (“The Father”), Riz Ahmed (“Sound of Metal”), Gary Oldman (“Mank”) and Steven Yeun (“Minari”) all did fine work, but Chadwick Boseman is the runaway winner. It’s nearly impossible to imagine a scenario in which Boseman’s name isn’t called.

Best actress

Vanessa Kirby (“Pieces of a Woman”) is a long shot and probably

doesn’t have a chance of winning (but you should see the movie and take in her shattering performance), and groundbreaking four-time nominee Viola Davis has only an outside chance, mostly because voters know she’ll be back, again and again.

That leaves us with three strong contenders. Frances McDormand (“Nomadland”) has won twice before, and Andra Day’s performance in “The United States vs. Billie Holiday” is better than the movie, so I’m going with Carey Mulligan for her searing and stunningly good performance in “Promising Young Woman.”

Best supporting actor

Even Lakeith Stanfield expressed surprise he was nominated for best supporting performance when he was clearly the lead in “Judas and the Black Messiah,” but the ways of the Academy voters remain mysterious at times. It’s cool to see veteran Chicago character actor Paul Raci nominated for “Sound of Metal,” and Sacha Baron Cohen (“The Trial of the Chicago 7”) getting recognition as a true actor, and it’s only a matter of time before the sublimely talented Leslie Odom Jr. (“One Night in Miami …”) wins Oscar, but the night of April 25 will belong to Daniel Kaluuya for his multilayered portrayal of Fred Hampton in “Judas and the Black Messiah.”

Best supporting actress

This is the tightest race in recent memory, with all five nominees listed at around 3-1. As much as I enjoyed Maria Bakalova’s brave and crazy funny work in “Borat Subsequent Moviefilm,” I don’t believe improvising with the likes of Rudy Giuliani requires the same level of acting as the other nominees brought to the table in their respective roles. Still, it

won’t be a shock and it’ll be kind of fun if Bakalova wins. Yuh-jung Youn is a fantastic force in “Minari,” and it’s the kind of out-of-nowhere performance by an unknown the Academy loves. Amanda Seyfried gave the best performance in “Mank,” and Glenn Close (“Hillbilly Elegy”) is a sentimental favorite. Olivia Colman won best actress just a couple of years ago for “The Favourite,” but Oscar voters love those brilliant British actors, and honoring Colman would be a way of recognizing “The Father,” which will fall short in the other categories for which it’s nominated.

So who am I going with? Check my ballot below!

Best Picture “Nomadland” Best Director Chloe Zhao (“Nomadland”) Best Actor Chadwick Boseman (“Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom”) Best Actress Carey Mulligan (“Promising Young Woman”) Best Supporting Actor Daniel Kaluuya (“Judas and the Black Messiah”) Best Supporting Actress Yuh-jung Youn (“Minari”) Best Adapted Screenplay “Nomadland” Best Original Screenplay “The Trial of the Chicago 7” Best Cinematography “Mank” Best Costume Design “Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom” Best Film Editing “The Trial of the Chicago 7” Best Makeup and Hairstyling “Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom” Best Production Design “Mank” Best Original Score “Soul” Best Original Song “Speak Now” (“One Night in Miami...”)

Best Sound “Sound of Metal” Best Visual Effects “Tenet” Best Animated Feature “Soul” Best Documentary Feature “Time” Best International Feature Film “Another Round” (Denmark) Best Animated Short “If Anything Happens I Love You” Best Documentary Short “A Love Song for Latasha” Live Action Short “Two Distant Strangers” 

Copyright 2020 Chicago Sun-Times

1 2 · S U N D AYS I G N A L

A P R I L 25, 2021

BEAUTY

Comfortable yet stylish shoe trends to try

W

hile comfort will continue to reign supreme for clothing and accessories in 2021, when it comes to footwear, there are a variety of fun fashion trends that make a statement. The good news is that there’s no need to overhaul your entire closet. And it’s easier than ever to incorporate on-trend pieces into a comfortable and casual outfit.

According to Alyson Stanley, buyer for national retailer Rack Room Shoes, simple clothing choices paired with shoes featuring leopard print detailing, pops of pastel, or silver accents make getting dressed easy and fun.

Whether walking around the neighborhood, enjoying a socially distanced event, or leading a Zoom meeting, here are some tips on how to stay cozy and on-trend this year.

Animal prints

In the past, mixing patterns was taboo, but according to Stanley, it’s now encouraged. Sneakers, clogs and casual shoes with animal print accents serve as a neutral accessory that can be mixed and paired with any item in the closet.

Nike’s Court Vision Low Sneaker puts a fun twist on cheetah print accents, while the adidas Puremo-

For those on-the-go, athletic shoes such as the Nike Swift 2 and the Nike Court Vision are selections that offer a touch of silver, gold or platinum detailing.

Joyful pastels and playful patterns

Try on-trend looks like the Nike Court Vision in metallic accents and fun colors.

tion Adapt is a stylish slip-on sneaker with a crisscross leopard print pattern.

Metallic accents

Athletic shoes featuring a hint of shine or iridescent details provide a versatile option for those getting their steps in or committing to fitness goals.

Because metallics such as rose gold, silver and gold can mesh with a broad range of color palettes and design styles, they are “the new neutral.”

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This season’s footwear features a palette of cotton candy-inspired shades (think lavender, mint green and bubblegum pink). The possibilities to incorporate these colors into this season’s outfits are limitless.

While you may know Crocs’ classic clogs are surprisingly comfortable and functional, you may not be aware that they now come in many pastel-colored options such as mint, lilac and a pattern featuring a baby blue shade swirled with cloud forms.

For all your family’s footwear needs, visit rackroomshoes.com for online shopping or curbside pickup options.

“Though many of us are still spending the majority of the day working, exercising, and taking classes online from home, clothing and accessories still afford us the opportunity to express our unique style,” says Stanley. “The patterns and color trends for shoes in 2021 can bring joy to everyday outfits for the entire family.” (SPT) 

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A P R I L 25, 2021

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 1 3

SENIORLIVING

Evaluating seniors’ biggest expenses

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ew parents may not be able to visualize that one day their largest expenditures won’t be centralized around providing necessities for their children. Adults go though many years of paying for diapers, toys, clothing, food and education for their children. Yet, when the children have flown the coop, spending patterns change, and even more changes await come retirement.

According to a 2020 survey from the financial services firm Edward Jones, 68% of workers soon to retire said they had no idea how much they should be setting aside for expenses, particularly health care and longterm care.

Professionals approaching retirement would be wise to analyze the Consumer Price Index – Elderly (CPI-E). It is a good reference to estimate which future expenses will cost the most after retirement.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics looks at consumer spending and uses various data to determine the rate of inflation in key areas that apply to older adults starting at age 62.

Individuals may be surprised to learn about where they’ll be spending the bulk of their money when they get older. Here’s a look at some key categories.

Housing

According to data from the Employee Benefit Research Institute, in 2017, the most recent year for which data is available, housing accounted for roughly 49% of all spending for seniors.

Focus should be centered on lowering those costs when a fixed income is imminent. The possibilities include paying off a mortgage; downsizing a

home to have a lower rent or mortgage payment; refinancing a home to a fixed-rate loan so that costs are predictable; and taking on a tenant to offset costs.

Food

The cost of food will not change dramatically, but it can eat into your budget. Even though food costs may decline when there’s only two mouths to feed, food and beverage spending may go up due to more leisure time and dining out.

Use senior discounts by shopping on days when stores offer percentages off purchases. Save money on restaurant spending by eating out at lunch instead of dinner, splitting plates or skipping appetizers.

Healthcare

Experts warn that while many expenses decline in retirement, health care spending increases. According to Fidelity, the average 65-year-old couple retiring in 2020 in the United States needed roughly $295,000 just to cover their retirement health care expenses. Those with family histories of severe illnesses or those with preexisting conditions will need even more.

It’s also important to realize that roughly half of the population will need long-term care at some point, offers The Motley Fool, and that requires advanced budgeting as well.

Many people find that Medicare supplement plans can bridge the gap in expenses that government-run plans will not cover. Saving through a health savings account (HSA) when employed also can create extra cash on hand for retirement expenses.

Understanding which retirement expenses will be high can help people plan better for the future. (MC) 

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A P R I L 25, 2021

HOME

How families can comfortably share close quarters

A

s the COVID-19 pandemic stretched on, families had to adapt to changing situations. Quarantine proved challenging even for the most resilient people, and families sharing close quarters had to find ways to stay calm and comfortable under one roof.

During the pandemic, families have spent more time together thanks to school closures, remote working and social distancing restrictions that limited contact between people who live in different households.

The home improvement resource BobVila.com says that the average U.S. home is around 1,760 square feet, but when everyone is clamoring for a spot to spend most of their days, even the most expansive home can begin to feel a bit too confined.

Here are some ways families can live comfortably when sharing close quarters for extended periods of time.

• Designate personal spaces. Bed-

rooms can be private respites, but they’re not necessarily the best places for people to spend the majority of their time. Try to create nooks that family members can call their own, like a man cave in the garage or a desk in a spare room for school lessons.

• Designate times for common areas.

Make a schedule that designates spaces for specific times, particularly for those who may need uninterrupted study or work periods.

• Establish defined routines. Stick to

a routine so that everyone at home knows what to expect and when. Parents can work around children’s school schedules and children can avoid interrupting meetings if they know the meeting schedule. Set break times for meals so everyone can take a break and spend time together each day.

• Voice concerns and keep communication open. Family members should be able to freely express frustrations, anger or even fear of situations without being judged, according to the

wellness resource Step to Health.

Make sure everyone in the home recognizes others’ feelings are valid.

• Get out when you can. Family members can opt for safe interactions with friends or peers when needed.

Engaging in conversation or getting a perspective from someone outside of the home can be beneficial. Even a short stroll alone outdoors can help to reduce stress. Parents of young children may want to establish a “quaranteam” with other caregivers so they can get a respite outside the home and leave the kids with trusted help.

• Use this as an opportunity to grow.

Spending more time together can be beneficial. Use the time together to make meals as a family, talk more, engage in family game nights, and build stronger relationships.

Some patience and cooperation can help families make the most of spending so much time together at home. (MC) 

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A P R I L 25, 2021

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 1 5

GARDENING

What works best for spring gardens and lawns

By Jane Gates Signal Staff Writer

A

s temperatures warm in Santa Clarita, the likelihood of rain dwindles away. After this past year 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 your 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 tuneup.

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

Above: Our local cactus, the Beavertail opuntia, naturally blooms a rich hot pink in the hills of Santa Clarita.

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

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 annual flowers will enjoy being planted, divided and transplanted now.

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 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.

For more information about gardening in the Santa Clarita Valley, visit Jane Gates on YouTube at https://you tube.com/user/Janieg8s. 

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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.

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.

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A P R I L 25, 2021

TECHNOLOGY

Social media challenges can be fun, but caution is necessary

S

ocial media is ubiquitous, with new platforms cropping up each year. They can be an outlet for communication and are designed to bridge the distance between users around the world. Many of today’s children have never been without social media. Parents must continue to educate themselves about how to keep their children safe.

Social media challenges can be fun. The most notable may be the Ice Bucket Challenge that helped to raise awareness about the disease ALS. Participants poured buckets of ice water over their heads and the heads of others. The stunt went viral and many people around the world ended up donating money to ALS research as a result.

Fun challenges

Flip The Switch was started by singer and musician Drake in 2020 that had two people participating in a video. A person in the foreground looks in a mirror while the person

in the background dances to Drake’s “Nonstop.” When the song reaches the lyrics, “Look, I just flipped the switch, I don’t know nobody else that’s doin’ this,” the lights go out and when they’re back on the people in the video have switched places. Some also switch their clothes.

A previous social media challenge known as the Bird Box Challenge involved people being inspired by Netflix’s meme-worthy original movie “Bird Box.” Individuals blindfolded themselves while attempting daily tasks.

Newer challenges on the popular TikTok app have people replicating dance moves or lip-synching to popular songs. The Until Tomorrow challenge asks people to post embarrassing photos of themselves.

The darker side of challenges

Most social media challenges are created with fun in mind, and children and parents are joining in on the entertainment. But like other aspects

The Miami Herald reported last year that children were injured from the Skullbreaker Challenge, which was a challenge involving two pranksters and an unsuspecting individual, who had his or her feet kicked out from under while jumping in the air.

Other dangerous challenges have involved kids playing with fire, erasing their skin with pencil erasers and balancing on the top of cars while they were in motion.

Communication needed of social media use, challenges have a potential dark side as well. According to the Daily Mail, 130 teenagers committed suicide due to a challenge called The Blue Whale. In this challenge, young participants embarked on a series of feats over 50 days that became more complicated and dangerous as time went on, causing injuries to animals and participants.

Families can have open conversations about social media use and touch on the popularity of new challenges — pinpointing what is safe and what is not. Parents are urged to always monitor kids’ social media use so they can stay up-to-date about any challenges their children are considering. Kids can be encouraged to speak to their parents or adults at school about pressures from peers to engage in challenges that may make them leery. (MC) 

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S U N D AYS I G N A L · 1 7

SCVi Charter Schools

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or 13 years now, SCVi Charter School, iLEAD’s founding school serving grades TK-12, has been a leader in our region and beyond, partnering with learners and their families to provide a personalized 21st-century education. We combine project-based and social-emotional learning to give each learner boundless opportunities to pursue their dreams, passions and interests. Our learners don’t wait to impact the real world. Rather, they engage with the real world now, addressing global challenges and improving their communities. Partnering with SCVi means your child will have a team of fully credentialed teachers to unlock their endless potential. Our customized program is built around your child’s unique interests and strengths, empowering them to make their mark on the world. Highlights include: • Personalized education that meets the needs of your learners with individualized education plans.

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A P R I L 25, 2021

F O C U S O N E D U C AT I O N

Insight: Caring For Your Mental Health In Times Of Uncertainty

D

uring times of adversity, we need to look for “silver linings” and tend to search for “lessons learned.” During the past year’s pandemic, the need for community support and hope is greater than ever. Many thought leaders and psychologists have named what we are all feeling right now as a type of “grief.”

This can be oddly comforting because it names the chaotic experience that is filled with the loss of normalcy and uncertainty about the future.

This past year has brought an increase in mental health challenges for all of us — isolation from loved ones, uncertainty about the present and future and economic stress.

For homeschool families, providing structure, encouragement and support while maintaining their own jobs can stretch their bandwidth to a breaking point.

We tend to like routines, and so much uncertainty is bound to cause

an increase in irritability, a shortened capacity to be there for our loved ones and heightened stress.

What I hear often in my practice is that people can make it through many challenging experiences as long as they know there’s a light at the end of the tunnel. We not only don’t know where that light is, we don’t yet know what our new “normal” is going to be.

We’ve also experienced greater restriction and deprivation — deprived of close contact with the people we love and meeting new people. Paying attention to one’s mental health is paying attention to how the current circumstances are affecting our stress levels, our attitudes about the world around us, and how we are coping.

Are we snapping at others more than usual? Are we drinking in unhealthy ways? Are we isolating more than usual, watching too much TV or playing too many video games? Normal reactions to abnormal circumstances for sure, but not a place we

want to live for the long run.

It is important to find meaning in suffering and adversity. However, we can be tempted to rush meaning and acceptance in order to avoid discomfort. So we need to learn to sit with our feelings of sadness, anxiety, and anger.

Paying attention to how we cope can address both the present and our greater need for meaning.

How stress affects us is unique to our personalities. Some people overeat in response to anxiety. Some feel so stressed they don’t eat at all.

Maintaining a healthy, balanced diet can help to regulate blood sugar levels and also mood.

Find a routine for self-care. Establish a regular time for sleep with bedtime rituals, like showering at night to wash away the stress from the day, or reading or meditating to transition to a place of calm.

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video if needed or an old fashioned phone call. Express appreciation for your children and family.

Move more and sit less. Make time for exercise and activity, even if it’s a daily walk with your pets. We need exercise to release all the unwanted stress and energy.

For children and teens, there is both confusion and frustration as life as they knew it suddenly changed. Parents are their role model for how to cope with stress. Validate their frustrations and talk with them about their losses and their wishes for normalcy.

This is a time when our mental health is tested and the need for support and community is more important than ever. It is a time when we need to pay attention to how we are stretched and compromised. There is no shame or stigma in seeking therapy or outside help. Taking care of ourselves can help and is even necessary for taking care of the people we love.

A P R I L 25, 2021

• • • • •

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 1 9

INFANT CENTER TODDLERS PRESCHOOL TK KINDERGARTEN

Montessori of Valencia 24925 Anza Drive

NEW ENROLLMENT SPECIAL! $100 OFF First Month’s Tuition

Cannot be combined with any other offer.

MUST ENROLL BY 5-31-21

Career Opportunities Looking to join a great team of teachers?

661-257-4161 Montessori on Copperhill 27908 Seco Canyon Road

661-673-5676 Now Hiring Teachers

Email Resume to MontessoriofValencia1@yahoo.com

Montessori of North Park

28180 McBean Parkway (1 blk south of Copperhill)

661-263-3265

Montessori of Stevenson Ranch 25940 The Old Road

661-259-5500

• Full & Part-Time Positions • Competitive Pay & Benefits • Paid Internships & Educational Opportunities to Enhance Your Career • Flexible Hours & Ongoing Training • Education to give you the professional edge for your growth

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Montessori Schools of Santa Clarita Valley

Is Preschool Considered Essential?

M

any preschools stayed open throughout the Covid-19 pandemic. Even though there were many important precautions taken to flatten the curve and keep everyone safe and healthy, it was widely recognized that preschool aged children were still in need of consistent, quality early childhood education. What makes preschool so essential? Consider the Noah’s Park Preschool Core Beliefs: • We believe that the majority of a child’s learning foundation is established at a young age. We focus on providing an accepting, nonthreatening, learning environment that is developmentally age appropriate.

• We believe that basic Christian principles provide children with a sound foundation for their future growth. We provide simple Bible stories, prayers, and positive reinforcement to foster social development through basic Christian concepts. We help children learn the privileges and limits of group life, begin to develop a caring attitude toward others, and begin to develop self-discipline

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F O C U S O N E D U C AT I O N

Montessori of Valencia Montessori of Stevenson Ranch Montessori on Copperhill Montessori of North Park

through gradually learning to make wise choices • We believe that play is the method that children use to understand their world. We provide a hands-on learning style environment that allows exploration and discovery through the use of the five senses.

• We believe in smaller class sizes and smaller ratios. We have a 1-6 ratio with up to 12 students and 2 teachers in each class.

So, is preschool essential for your family? The only way to know for sure is to give it a try! Contact us for a tour today!

Contact Noah’s Park Preschool Director Cari Byers at cari.byers@ northpark.com; (661) 621-6010.

W

ith over 24 years of dedication to Early childhood education in Southern California, we have built a positive reputation in the Santa Clarita valley since 2006 and operate four locations throughout the valley for your convenience. We offer an Infant / Toddler Program, Preschool and Kindergarten Program for ages 6 weeks to 6 years. Our schools operate a year-round program with an exceptional curriculum. We are currently operating under strict guidelines from the CDC. Our comprehensive curriculum includes Spanish, Dance, Music and Movement. We provide healthy nutritious meals for your child and offer afternoon enrichment programs.

In our four locations, we understand that each child is unique and grow at his/her own pace. We re-

spect their individuality and create a program to guide them through their path of learning and development. Our classrooms are prepared with love, care and with multi-sensory, hands-on learning materials.

With our approach, children are able to reach their highest potential not only in a classroom environment but in everyday life.

Our experienced staff is loving, kind and have profound respect for children and their independence.

We are committed to excellence and invite you to call and schedule a personal tour of our beautiful childcare centers or email inquiries to montessoriofnorthpark@yahoo.com Montessori of Valencia (661) 257 4161 Montessori of Stevenson Ranch (661) 259 5500 Montessori on Copperhill (661) 673 5676 Montessori of North Park (661) 263 3265

Welcome to Our School!

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

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

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S U N D AYS I G N A L · 2 1

Keeping our kids safe emotionally, mentally, spiritually and physically since 1992.

SUMMER CAMP, BEFORE SCHOOL, AFTER SCHOOL, & VIRTUAL CLUBS!

TK-8th

Enrolling at all locations!

Newhall, Canyon Country, and Acton Benefits of SanSar Inc Child Care Include: • Transportation to and from school • Care is provided by qualified, caring, experienced staff • Engaging activities and clubs • Social Emotional Learning Curriculum • Makers Space Curriculum • Large outdoor area to keep kids active 1 4/7/21 7:13 PM Page 1 •NSD_Postcard_PRINT.qxp_Layout Snacks provided, meal plan available NSD_Postcard_PRINT.qxp_Layout 1 4/7/21 7:13 PM Page 1 • Following CDC Protocols for School Age Centers

CONTACT US TODAY!

NSD_Postcard_PRINT.qxp_Layout 1 4/7/21 7:13 PM Page 1

For more information, visit our website www.scvafterschoolprograms.com Newhall, CA: 661-542-3018 Canyon Country, CA: 661-251-3182 Acton, CA: 661-208-0575 Lic: 197418166, 197750063, 197750078

NSD_Postcard_PRINT.qxp_Layout 1 4/7/21 7:13 PM Page 1

Enrollment is open to all children.

• 10 Award-Winning Schools • Consistent Academic Excellence

CALL Enroll Today!

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A P R I L 25, 2021

F O C U S O N E D U C AT I O N

NSD: Working Strategically, Getting Results

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amilies and Friends of the Newhall School District, I wanted to take this opportunity to reassure you that the Newhall School District continues to focus on the safety, well-being, and education of our students, their families, and our entire community. We have shifted our learning models and teaching approaches to be within the state mandated guidelines, but we have not changed our vision to empower every child every day. Our mission of creating global citizens who think critically, solve problems, embrace diversity in people and viewpoints, and have a passion for learning and the arts remains at the forefront of everything we stand for as high-performing school district.

As we transition back to holding our school days in the classroom, this same mission will be incorporated into the lessons our students learn every day. We are committed to collaborating and building on each other’s strengths, innovating for the future, persevering through whatever new and challenging learning and teach-

ing opportunities we may face, continuously striving for improvement in all that we do, all while keeping the social-emotional well-being of our students as our main priority.

The qualities that we work to instill in every one of our students each day are the same qualities that help us to navigate the future. At the Newhall School District, we use the skills we teach our students every day. We know that these skills will help our students not only through their academic journey, but well into their careers and their adult lives.

I would be honored to have your student join us at the Newhall School District and I personally invite you to visit our website or call our office to learn more. We cannot wait to welcome you into the Newhall School District Family.

Kindest Regards, Jeff Pelzel Superintendent, Newhall School District.

S

Sand Castles

andSar Inc has been serving the Santa Clarita Valley since 1992. We have 3 locations in Newhall, Canyon Country, and Acton! We have stayed open all through Covid, assisting with distance learning and homework support. We offer transportation for students to and from school in the Santa Clarita Valley and in Acton.

We provide an environment where children feel safe mentally, emotionally, spiritually and physically.

Our program leaders go through

high quality training with program specialists for lesson planning, Social Emotional Learning, classroom management, and technology. We have been recognized for developing a model program for one of our sites. All of our locations follow the CDC Covid Protocols for School Age Centers. We are excited for the brighter days to come!

For more information, visit https://www.scvafterschoolprograms. com.

Lighthouse Christian Preschool & Academy Now Enrolling Pre-K to 1st Grade

Why choose us?

For more information or to register

• Quality Education • School Readiness Curriculum • Developmentally Supportive Environment and Staff • Small class size

Call: 661-257-7688 Email: lighthouseofcastaic@gmail.com Website: sloancanyonchurch.com 28355 Sloan Canyon Road, Castaic (Formerly Sloan Canyon)

Come Play With Us!

Opportunities For Learning (OFL) is a fully accredited public charter school that has spent the last two decades helping students earn their diploma and find success in high school and beyond!

OFL creates customized learning plans for every student, combining small group classes, guided independent study, and online classes to match your individual strengths and needs.

Combined with one-on-one support from highly-qualified teachers and free single-subject tutoring, counseling, and special education services, every OFL student is provided with the tools, resources, and nurturing support they need to succeed. experience, and form a college and career path for FREE! No matter what your dream is, know that it’s possible with OFL!

Come visit us at our new locations!

Canyon Country | 18824 Soledad Canyon Rd., Canyon Country CA 91351 | 661.424.1337 Newhall Ranch | 27616 Newhall Ranch Rd. #A-15, Santa Clarita, CA 91355 | 661.607.0153

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Preparing students for the return to school

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s we re-emerge into the world and adjust to a “new normal,” what should we expect? As parents and kids make the transition back to school, they are anticipating a myriad of changes, managing anxiety and discomfort, and adjusting yet again to a new reality.

We’ve made adjustments and had losses that we were not prepared for — losing connections to teachers, learning losses and loss of contact with our communities.

There’s no question that witnessing kids’ loneliness, difficulties with on-line learning and endless hours on social media has been stressful and painful for many parents.

And yet this year has also come with extraordinary resilience — the ability to pivot, adjust, and make meaning are all things to be celebrated as we know that we grow from adversity.

But most kids are having anxiety about returning to school — anxiety about safety, about an increase

A P R I L 25, 2021

F O C U S O N E D U C AT I O N

in rules, and even how to socialize.

The insistence that kids’ return will depend on the family’s and child’s unique situation — do they need socialization because they have been isolated? Do they learn better with live instruction?

Attention spans will be shorter, there will be more rules and it will take patience to abide by new social distancing structures.

In addition to talking to kids about their fears and anxieties, the following tips & tools may help to prepare everyone: • Strategize your schedules — talk about what adjustments need to be made • Have kids get ready the night before and have their schedule ready • Keep a personal and family calendar • Gradually get back to school year schedule routines • Do not shy away from asking the deeper, harder questions about strugSee INSIGHT, next page

Castaic Union School District Advancing Hearts and Minds

W

e have much to celebrate and be thankful for in Castaic Union School District. We are extremely proud of all of the accomplishments during the past year in a global pandemic shifting our instruction to Distance Learning. Our staff, students and families have shown remarkable patience, resilience, and perseverance

for the last 12 months.

Our mission is that the Castaic Union School District advances the hearts and minds of students through innovative learning and differentiated teaching to challenge all learners and provide a holistic approach to wellness in a secure, safe environment. The Castaic Union School District will develop independent, high achieving and socially responsible students.

The continued successes of our students validate the direction set by the Board of Trustees and encourage us to stay the course. We are proud of our students, teachers, support staff, and administrators who are dedicated to improving student achievement each and every day. We are confident that our daily classroom instruction focus will enhance the learning outcomes for all Castaic children! We encourage all parents and community members to visit our schools and see the great things happening.

EMPOWERING STUDENTS TO EXCEL

• • • • • • • •

Award-Winning Schools Preschool-Eighth Grade Innovative Technology Project-Based Learning Visual & Performing Arts Career Pathways Enrichment Programs Before and After School Care

We shape the leaders, thinkers, and change-makers of tomorrow.

ENROLL TODAY! www.castaicusd.com

Castaic Union School District Advances the hearts and minds of students through innovative learning and differentiated teaching to challenge all learners and provide a holistic approach to wellness in a secure, safe environment. The Castaic Union School District will develop independent, high-achieving, and socially responsible students.

A P R I L 25, 2021

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 2 5

Castaic Union School District

Lighthouse Christian Preschool & Academy

Newhall School District

Insight Treatment

Montessori of Valencia

Noah’s Park Preschool

28131 Livingston Ave Valencia 91355 661-257-4500 www.castaicusd.com/

26330 Diamond Pl Suite 120/130, Santa Clarita 91350 661-765-8445 insighttreatment.com/

28355 Sloan Canyon Rd Castaic 91384 661-257-7688 sloancanyonchurch.com/ school/

24925 Anza Dr Valencia 91355 661-257-4161 montessoriofvalencia. com/

25375 Orchard Village Rd #104, Santa Clarita 91355 661-291-4000 www.newhallschool district.com/

28310 Kelly Johnson Pkwy Valencia, CA 91355 661-621-6010 www.noahs-park.org/

Opportunities for Learning

SCVi and iLEAD Schools

SandCastles Child Care Center

Small World Preschool

27616 Newhall Ranch Rd A1-A15 & A25 Valencia, CA 91355 661-607-0153 oflschools.org/

27303 Luther Dr Canyon Country 91351 661-251-3182 www.scvafterschool programs.com/

28060 Hasley Canyon Rd Castaic, CA 91384 661-705-4820 iLEADSantaClarita.org

26640 Bouquet Canyon Rd Santa Clarita, CA 91350 661-296-1155 www.scumc.org/smallworld

Lighthouse Preschool and Academy is Enrolling

T

he ministry of Lighthouse Preschool and Academy (formerly Sloan Canyon) was established to provide an educational experience in a secure, nurturing, consistent, well organized, and clean environment for children.

We recognize the importance for balanced growth, and we will provide many Christ-centered opportunities for the social, emotional, intellectual, physical, and spiritual development of

INSIGHT

Continued from page 24

gle, like suicidal ideation or feeling depressed • Help kids find a sense of agency — what can they control?

Parents have also suffered during this pandemic and talking about it will help kids. Talk about how they cope with stress themselves. The availability of adults and whether parents are keeping it together is a predictor of childrens’ resilience.

the children in our care.

We have small class sizes, so children receive more individual attention. Our programs have been servicing the children and families of our community since 2001.

This service has grown out of love for the children and a sincere desire to help them adapt and succeed in today’s world.

The Purpose of Lighthouse Preschool & Academy is threefold.

1. To glorify and magnify the Lord Jesus Christ in our conduct, in the classroom, and in all activities supported in and through the school.

2. The education and safety of our students, and excellence in our faculty and staff to provide an exemplary education.

3. To provide an atmosphere where the teacher/educator comes alongside Kids do need certain kinds of experiences in their lives to develop normally but there is no reason to think an interruption like this is going to cause permanent damage. We have to consider how we are going to frame this period as we emerge from it. We need to focus not just on hardship and tragedy. We need to praise ourselves and our kids for their flexibility, resilience and ability to change if we are to help them recover and return to normalcy.

Jennifer Campoy, LCSW, Psychotherapist and Clinical Social Worker www. jennifercampoylcsw.com

the parent in the education of their children but not to usurp the role of the parent.

Currently we offer preschool to 1st grade. Our hope is that each year we can add a new grade. Come be a part

of our steadily growing school, schedule a tour today!

Now enrolling for 2021-2022 school year! Now Hiring! Lighthouse Preschool & Academy, 661-257-7688.

Small World Preschool provides a safe, comfortable and challenging learning environment allowing your child to be part of their own “small world” where they can try new things and learn by having fun!

Small World Preschool 26640 Bouquet Canyon Rd. Santa Clarita, CA 91350 661-296-1155 smallworld@scumc.org www.scumc.org/small-world

YEAR ROUND ENROLLMENT • Serving ages 2 to 5 years • Morning, Half-Day & Full-Day programs available 2-5 days a week.

Register Now!

SAVE

$50

on registration fees Just mention this ad when registering.

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A P R I L 25, 2021

2021 CAMPS & SCHOOLS GUIDE

Keeping kids of all ages engaged this summer

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id you know 96% of teachers say that each fall, students appear to have forgotten or lost some of the knowledge or skills they learned the previous school year?

But don’t worry, the good news is that 89% of parents plan to continue some form of educational activities with their children during the summer.

And, 92% of teachers agree that students will be more successful overall if they keep learning during the summer months.

Adults often look back fondly on their childhood experiences at summer camp or working on special projects at summer school. Camps and schools can provide the opportunity to form lifelong friendships and discover rewarding hobbies that can enrich campers’ lives for decades to come.

Choosing a summer camp or school is no small task, but these pages should help give you direction on what opportunities are available here.

The local selection ranges from learning or improving on your dance techniques, self-defense classes to swimming, music and acting lessons.

When looking for a camp for kids, families should make the decision together. Kids should be involved in the selection process, as they’re more

likely to have an enjoyable camp experience if they had a say in where they will be spending their summers.

However, what is more likely is that your child will let you know what they would like to engage in this summer and beyond.

Camps may last as little as one week or up to several weeks, depending on the focus. So, it is important to consider what you and your child are considering. Nonetheless, summer camps and schools give kids a chance to make memories that will last a lifetime. Choosing the right camp is an important decision that parents and kids should make together. (MC)

Special Starter Program 8 weeks for $88 Adults 18+ Kids/Teens 3-17

17749 Sierra Hwy, Santa Clarita 91351 661-491-5728 www.citadelkravmaga.com info@citadelkravmaga.com

A P R I L 25, 2021

CAMPSANDSCHOOLS

College of the Canyons Summer Institute

T

he College of the Canyons Junior High Summer Institute is BACK and registration is now open with weekly sessions running June 14 to 18 and June 21 to 25.

The institute is open to students entering grades 6 through 8 this fall.

The institute provides hands-on career exploration and learning opportunities in a variety of areas, such as: cybersecurity, podcasting, sports medicine, photography, electronic music, sun, wind and fire, and automotive technology.

All instructors are College of the Canyons professors or industry professionals who have tailored their

curriculum for grades 6 through 8.

Each track allows students to discover a variety of career possibilities through a unique blend of innovative lesson plans and fun, hands-on activities.

This summer we are offering halfday online camps for $99 or full-day on-campus camps for $199 per child, per week. For those who may need assistance with the cost, we are also offering scholarships this year!

The scholarship application deadline is coming so visit www.canyons. edu/summerinstitute today to apply and sign up. Classes are filling quickly.

Hands-on career exploration for Junior High students

• Help your junior high student find their passion • For students entering grades 6-8 in Fall 2021 • The COC Summer Institute features fun, exciting and engaging sessions that include interactive presentations

Register TODAY!

JUNE 14-18

In-Person Workshops!

The Disney Classic comes to life!

M-F 10:30 - 3:30 Ages 13-17 6/14 - 7/9 Six Shows: 7/10,11, 17 & 18

M-F 12:30 - 4:30 • Ages: 10-13 • 1: 6/28 - 7/16 • 2: 7/19 - 8/06

Character Matters: Return of the Fairy Advice Council 91321 www.CanyonTheatre.org 24242Tale Main St., Newhall Fabulous Fairy Tale Fun! (661) Call Now for reservations!

M-F 799-2702 9:00 – 12:00 Ages: reading age - 10 1: 6/21 – 7/02 2: 7/05 – 7/16 3: 7/19 - 7/30

661-799-2702 www.canyontheatre.org

ONLINE CAMPS Photography Cybersecurity Electronic Music Digital Media: Podcasting

SCHOL ARSHIP S AVAILA BLE! Visit ca nyons. edu/ Summe rCamp sApp to appl y

JUNE 21-25 ONLINE CAMPS Photography Cybersecurity Electronic Music

ON CAMPUS CAMPS Sports Medicine Sun, Wind, Fire Automotive

For more information or to register visit:

www.canyons.edu/SummerCamps or email CommunityEd@canyons.edu

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A P R I L 25, 2021

CAMPSANDSCHOOLS

Handling summer camp questions with the pandemic

C

hildren make cherished memories at summer camp, where many youngsters first discover passions and hobbies they will enjoy for the rest of their lives.

Summer 2020 was a camp season unlike any other. Some camps closed their doors due to the COVID-19 pandemic, while others downsized their offerings in an effort to keep campers safe while still providing them with a much-needed outlet.

As the 2021 summer camp season approaches, parents may be a little less hesitant about sending their kids to camp than they were a year ago.

The rollout of COVID-19 vaccines has helped millions of people return to some semblance of normalcy, and that rollout has put summer camp back in play for families.

Choosing a summer camp is not always so easy, and it might be especially tricky as the world slowly emerges from the pandemic. The following are some tips for parents as they consider if camp is a good idea this summer.

Consider your comfort level

It’s understandable if parents are hesitant about sending their youngsters to camp this summer. In fact, some camps may still be closed while others may only offer limited day camps this summer. Parents should consider their comfort levels before enrolling kids in camp.

Parents can ask themselves how comfortable they are sending kids to camp, and if they’re hesitant to do so they can explore their alternatives.

Ask the kids

Everyone is experiencing some measure of pandemic-related burnout, and that includes kids.

Kids may be sick of wearing masks at school all day and, even if they have loved camp in the past, may not be looking forward to wearing masks all day at camp this summer.

Others might not be experiencing such burnout and may see camp as a way to quell boredom at a time when boredom has seemingly lingered over every day. Either way, solicit kids’ input and let them know their feelings matter regardless of which side of the fence they’re on.

Inquire about safety protocols.

When researching summer camps, ask about the safety protocols each camp will have in place. Will masks be mandatory for both campers and staff? How much direct interaction will campers have with each other?

Have staff members been vaccinated? What measures are being taken to keep kids safe? Camps should have detailed protocols and share those protocols with parents upon request.

Summer camps may not be fully back to normal in 2021. However, families likely won’t have to go without access to summer camps for the second consecutive summer. ine, and that can help kids overcome the boredom of being stuck at home all summer. (MC)

HIGH DESERT DRIVING SCHOOL

FREE ONLINE DRIVER’S ED

When you sign up for 10 hours Behind the Wheel

We contract with Charter Schools and their students.

HIGH DESERT DRIVING SCHOOL

CALL 661-940-8835

Sign Up & Pay Online! www.highdesertdrivingschool.com

DMV STATE LIC. #2087

A P R I L 25, 2021

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 2 9

CAMPSANDSCHOOLS

C

Canyons Aquatic Club

anyons Aquatic Club is an organization that conducts swim lessons, competitive and masters swimming, and is located in Santa Clarita, California.

Canyons is affiliated with USA Swimming and US Masters swimming, competing in the Southern California region.

Canyons’ home pool is located at College of the Canyons but also has various practice locations including the Santa Clarita Aquatics Center and Castaic Aquatic Center.

Founded in 1978, Canyons is one of the largest swim clubs in Southern California.

Its notable alumni are Olympic medalists Anthony Ervin (three gold, one silver), Abbey Weitzeil (one gold, one silver) and Gabe Woodward (one bronze).

Canyons has the honor of being a USA Swimming Bronze level club and currently has a ranked 18 & Under World 100 swimmer.

Canyons has more than 250 members at various levels, ranging from

novice/introductory levels to nationally ranked competitors.

Since 1978, Canyons had produced numerous high school All-Americans, hundreds of collegiate swimmers, 23 Olympic Trails qualifiers, a U.S. Olympic team alternate, and 3 Olympic Medalists.

At Canyons, we maintain a strong team culture to promote optimal growth, to provide world-class instruction, and to continuously pursue excellence.

We provide a safe, fun, and competitive environment for all levels of ability.

• Teach swimmers success is defined by the commitment and determination of the individual.

• Carry an Olympic tradition of high performance at national and international competitions.

• Advocate values of strong leadership to make a difference in the community.

• Support outreach programs to have a positive impact on the Santa Clarita Valley.

ENROLL TODAY!

The adventure begins at

iLEAD Agua Dulce!

A tuition-FREE public charter school serving grades TK-8 What makes us unique?

Social-emotional development.

Innovative, independent critical thinking.

Entrepreneurial and collaborative.

Project-based and play-centered learning.

Personalized learning options including home school.

Caring, passionate, adaptable & fully credentialed staff.

iLEADAguaDulce.org

9th Grade Coming Fall 2021

11311 Frascati St., Agua Dulce, CA 91390 • (661) 268-6386 Check our website for updates on learning options during COVID-19

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A P R I L 25, 2021

Camp and School Directory Canyons Aquatic Club

College of the Canyons

iLEAD Agua Dulce

Based at College of the Canyons 24655 Rockwell Canyon Rd Santa Clarita, CA 91355 www.teamunify.com/Home.jsp?team=sccac

24655 Rockwell Canyon Rd Santa Clarita, CA 91355 661-259-7800 www.canyons.edu/

11311 Frascati St Agua Dulce, CA 91390 661-268-6386 ileadaguadulce.org/

Canyon Theatre Guild

Dance Studio 84

Little School of Music

24242 Main St Newhall, CA 91321 661-799-2702 https://www.canyontheatre.org/

27889 Smyth Dr Valencia, CA 91355 661-775-7655 www.dancestudio84.com/

28306 Constellation Rd Valencia, CA 91355 661-222-2239 littleschoolofmusic.com/

Citadel Krav Maga

High Desert Driving School

Vibe Performing Arts

829 W Ave J Lancaster, CA 93534 661-940-8835 highdesertdrivingschool.com/

24460 1/4 Lyons Ave Santa Clarita, CA 91321 661-255-7464 www.vibescv.com/

17749 Sierra Hwy Santa Clarita, CA 91351 661-491-5728 www.citadelkravmaga.com/

A P R I L 25, 2021

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 3 1

K I D S & FA M I LY

Donna’s Day: Creative Family Fun

Family fresh key lime pie

By Donna Erickson Signal Contributing Writer

I

t’s been a long winter, and now it’s time to celebrate a new season! Nothing says spring like the zingy taste of citrus, and that’s when my favorite Key lime pie recipe takes center stage at our dessert table.

It has all the “key” ingredients for togetherness, too, making it a winner all the way around. There’s something for everyone to do. Yes, there is mixing and stirring, but also letting out the wiggles when pounding graham crackers and squeezing lots of limes.

And for the steady hand, there’s separating egg yolks from whites. When it’s time for the grand finale, someone else gets to whip the luscious cream and spoon the tempting dollops on each piece. Make that my job.

Sound like fun? You bet! Here’s how to get started.

Here’s what you’ll need:

11 cinnamon honey or regular graham crackers crumbled to a pie-crust consistency 1/2 cup melted unsalted butter 1 cup fresh-squeezed lime juice (use Key limes, if available) from about 1 pound of limes 2 14-ounce cans sweetened condensed milk 4 large egg yolks

Topping for the pie

Whipped cream 1 teaspoon grated lime zest

Fresh mango slices (optional)

Here’s the fun:

After you have set the oven to 325 F, here’s how to get the kids involved:

Step 1 Let one child count 11 graham crackers from the box and break them into pieces in a sturdy plastic bag. Show him how to pound the crackers with a lightweight hammer until they are a pie-crust consistency.

Dump into a mixing bowl and mix with the melted butter, then press evenly against the bottom and side of a pie pan.

An adult should bake the crust in the oven for 5 minutes. Remove and set aside.

Increase oven temperature to 350 F. Step 2 While one child crushes the graham crackers, let another child squeeze the fresh limes to yield about 1 cup of lime juice. An adult should reduce the lime juice in a saucepan to 1/4 cup at a slow simmer over medium heat. Cool to room temperature.

Step 3 Whisk egg yolks together in a bowl. Stir in the sweetened condensed milk and cooled juice. Pour filling into the pie shell and bake 7-10

minutes or until the middle is firm but able to jiggle. Cool, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.

Top with dollops of whipping cream sprinkled with lemon zest and fresh mango slices. Delicious!

Donna Erickson’s award-winning series “Donna’s Day” is airing on public

television nationwide. To find more of her creative family recipes and activities, visit www.donnasday.com and link to the Donna’s Day Facebook fan page.

Her latest book is “Donna Erickson’s Fabulous Funstuff for Families.”  © 2020 Donna Erickson Distributed by King Features Synd.

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SOLUTIONS

PUZZLES

A P R I L 25, 2021

CROSSWORD TIME

A P R I L 25, 2021

Opinion

S U N D AY S I G N A L · 3 3

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

READERLETTERS

Is ‘Justice’ Even Possible?

I’m glad I wasn’t a member of the jury in the Derek Chauvin case. I don’t want to be a juror in a criminal case, for one reason: Unless I witnessed the incident, I cannot, and will not, find in either direction. I have to sleep at night and live with myself , and that’s more important than following the rules of an imperfect judicial system. I wonder if a juror can take the Fifth?

With that said, I think it would be very difficult to find Chauvin guilty of anything worse than involuntary manslaughter. Too many elements necessary for a higher charge are missing. There is no premeditation or intent, and even if there was it can’t be proven beyond a reasonable doubt. Chauvin may have racial biases, be a bigot, an idiot and a criminally negligent fool, but none of that proves he murdered George Floyd. Second, there seems to be professional disagreement as what actually caused Floyd to die. Was it the restraint, his physical condition, the combination of drugs he had taken? Was it all of the above? How much of a role did each of those elements play in his death? Nobody can say for certain.

Only one thing is for certain, and that is that George Floyd died at the hands (or knee) of Derek Chauvin.

Now, if a certain segment of the public decides it wants to disregard the law and the judicial process, and make an example of Chauvin by whatever means, so be it. If that segment doesn’t get its “blood” and wants to punish as many people as possible by rioting, burning and looting, so be that as well. But know this: That segment of the population is not after justice because neither of the scenarios I described amounts to justice.

I do not believe justice is possible anymore — not with us, at least. I think that train left the station ages ago, and we are left with a festering malignancy, a spiritual rot that cannot be cured or treated. There isn’t enough blood that can spilled or police officers to be jailed to rectify the situation. Perhaps, if we are lucky, future generations, our great-grandchildren perhaps, will gradually evolve out of the never-ending cycle of pain that grips us. As time distances us from the older, angrier generations, and the older generations are finally laid to rest, maybe then we will finally have a chance to breath clean air. Consider this quote by Sidney Poitier from the movie “Guess Who’s Coming To Dinner?”: “You are 30 years older than I am. You and your whole lousy generation believes the way it was for you is the way it’s got to be. And not until your whole generation has lain down and died will the dead weight of you be off our backs!... You think of yourself as a colored man, but I think of myself as a man.”

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

On Freedom and Discipline

By David Hegg

A

s virtues go, discipline has always been understood as necessary to success. In the sporting world, we often hear that those at the top work the hardest, study the most game film, stay after practice to practice even more, and generally are said to have a "high work rate."

But in recent years the idea of discipline as its own reward has fallen on hard times. Unless it is tied to immediate, anticipated success, discipline is seen by us as unnecessary. In fact, more and more the concept of pleasure is associated with the abandonment of restraint. And while vacations are needed times of rest and retreat from the “oughts” of our complex lives, I wonder if we are slowly but steadily retraining ourselves to see discipline as a necessary evil rather than the essential virtue in our search for freedom.

Years ago I was privileged to sit in the audience as a world-renowned concert pianist — Mr. Sam Rotman — played a passionate program of classical piano music. A graduate of the storied Julliard School, Mr. Rotman noted that he practiced his music for 10 hours every day. Not nine hours and 45 minutes, but a full 10 hours. As I listened and watched his fingers flying over thousands of notes, my attention was drawn to his face. With eyes closed, and facial expressions running from smiles to surprise to sadness and unfettered joy, he perfectly reflected the mood of the music. In fact, he was living the music he was playing, and doing so with passion. I was struck with the realization that here was a man who was not tied to the notes; rather, the notes were under his command. He was able to play with the greatest freedom because he had first demanded of himself the greatest discipline.

That great discipline allows for great freedom is a truth that we desperately need to reclaim in our day. I can remember asking why, in junior high school, I needed to learn algebra. The answer was “because some day you’ll need to think logically.”

Of course, I couldn’t understand the logic in that!

What junior high boy does? But what the educational experts understood was that the discipline of algebra was necessary to train the brain to think, and thinking brains had the potential to someday become creative, problem-solving, society-enhancing brains. The discipline then was understood to be necessary to freedom later

on, freedom to think sequentially, logically and creatively. And while it would pain my teacher to know that I couldn’t solve for x if my life depended on it today, the discipline of mathematics was a necessary element in my learning to analyze arguments and other things involved in my teaching, writing and preaching.

In our desire to find freedom, we would do well to honor the place of discipline.

By this I mean the understanding that rigor must precede reward, consistent diligence and focus must lay the foundation for accomplishment.

Too often today we are a society of short-cuts, looking for a way to the top that doesn’t require the agony of the climb. But it is the agony, the practice, the planning, the sweat and the daily grind that actually build the character necessary to see the journey as its own reward. The determination to be the best, combined with the discipline necessary to pay the price, is as much a value to our society as any victory or accomplishment.

People of discipline make better workers, better spouses, better neighbors. They aren’t afraid of hard work, of struggle, of labor, of pain. They recognize that the easy path isn’t usually the best path, and that the practice of daily discipline builds character and usually ushers in accomplishment. They draw strength to do the right thing from the deep springs of discipline in their lives and believe that recognition doesn’t ultimately matter as much as consistency and honor.

Ultimately, discipline is a value that acts in the present in view of a better future. Physical exercise is a discipline aimed at future health, just as a disciplined financial plan looks forward to having enough for the unknown days ahead.

In the same way, moral discipline now anticipates the day when the accounts will be settled before the court of Heaven. Unfortunately, as great as personal resolve and discipline are in this life, no amount can satisfy that court. The currency of human effort isn’t accepted there. Only the discipline of faith, trusting only in the willing, disciplined mission and message of Jesus Christ, will be found to satisfy Heaven’s demands.

In the end, his discipline, not ours, is the stuff of ultimate, eternal freedom.

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

A P R I L 25, 2021

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