Sunday Signal May 23, 2021 by Signal

MAY 23, 2021

Water Sports & Outdoor Fun Page 6

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GREAT IDEAS FOR MEMORIAL DAY ROAD TRIPS

A FRESH SPIN ON SPRING SALADS

DON’T FORGET ABOUT YOUR SELF-CARE

Dear Community Members, It has been an honor to have served as CEO of Metro for the past six years. One of Metro’s accomplishments that I am most proud of during my tenure is the passage of Measure M. Voters invested their faith – and tax dollars – in an ambitious slate of transportation projects designed to transform mobility in LA County. One of those projects is the I-5 North County Enhancements Project, a highway improvement project that would expand High-Occupancy Vehicle (HOV) Lanes for 14 miles in both directions, between the State Route 14 interchange and Parker Road, while adding safety features. This has been a project long in the making and I know that many in Santa Clarita, Castaic and surrounding communities have been waiting for these improvements. We truly appreciate the community’s patience. We have good news. After years of planning, we’re getting ready to put shovels into the ground. A groundbreaking is being planned for this summer and we can’t wait to get moving on this important project to bring these long-awaited improvements to this busy corridor. We believe these improvements will enhance safety and reduce accidents, improve the flow of traffic and movement of goods, and encourage more people to carpool with 14 miles of additional HOV lanes. We’re asking for your continued patience as we begin construction this year. There will be temporary disruptions and closures. But we believe the result will be safer and more efficient freeway travel along this corridor when the project is completed in 2026. We are grateful taxpayers saw the value of projects like this and voted overwhelmingly to pass Measure M in 2016. It set LA County on an ambitious path forward to transform the way we move. We are committed to fulfilling that promise by delivering infrastructure projects like this that will improve mobility for all. Thank you for your patience and your attention to the I-5 North County Enhancements Project. I know it will be worth the wait.

Phillip A. Washington CEO, Metro

Sincerely,

M AY 23, 2021

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M AY 23, 2021

TABLE OF CONTENTS NEWS FEATURES

FROM THE MAYOR

5 6 7 8

Great escapes for Memorial Day weekend Swimming safety tips for summer Enjoying the great outdoors in the SCV Family fun by the rules of the range

9 River Rally, Rain Barrels and Recyle Heroes … oh my!

ENTERTAINMENT 10 1 0 The Canyon brings live music to Santa Clarita 12 Hitchcock-inspired ‘Woman’ doesn’t quite hit the mark

FOOD 11 11 Give spring salads a fresh spin

HOME 14 14 Improve wellness with affordable bathroom upgrades

FINANCE 15 1 5 Smart ways to keep travel spending in check The benefits of travel insurance

GARDEN 16 16 Lavender and Rosemary: Perfect plants for the SCV garden

SENIOR LIVING

17 A Second Wind: Launch into the big pool

‘BEST OF’ BALLOT 18 TECHNOLOGY 20 20 Use less data, save money on your wireless plan

HEALTH & BEAUTY

21 At-home, self-care practices to elevate your day

PETS 22 22 Make nutrition a priority for your family pet

KIDS & FAMILY

23 Donna’s Day” Give jars in bloom to thank a teacher

PUZZLES 24 OPINION 25 SPECIALIZING IN PRECISION ELECTRONIC TUNE-UPS, FUEL INJECTION, IGNITION, SMOG CHECK, GENERAL AUTOMOTIVE REPAIR

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Publisher Sunday Signal Editor Signal Editor Production Manager

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

661-259-1234 The entire content of the Sunday Signal is copyrighted 2021 by Paladin Multi-Media Group, Inc. All submitted letters and columns are strictly the opinions of the authors and not necessarily those of the publisher. All rights are reserved and no part of this publication may be reproduced without written permission of the publisher. If you would not like this delivered to your home, please call (661) 259-1000.

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M AY 23, 2021

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N E W S F E AT U R E

By Michele E. Buttelman Signal Staff Writer

oad trips should be spontaneous and are best taken in a convertible with plenty of junk food stowed aboard and no schedules to keep. While familiar haunts are favorite road trip destinations, the best road trips are to places you’ve never seen. You might need more than a threeday weekend to see some of these places, but that’s part of the adventure. California is a large and wondrous state, why not explore some of its hidden places and secret spaces? Here are some ideas to truly “get away from it all” this Memorial Day.

Anza-Borrego Desert State Park

200 Palm Canyon Drive, Borrego Springs, 92004 Miles from SCV 180 Info parks.ca.gov/?page_id=638 Borrego Springs, 90 miles northeast of San Diego, is one of the best spots for stargazing in California. You haven’t seen a night sky until you’ve seen it in the remote AnzaBorrego Desert State Park. Surrounded by mountains and with a local focus on eliminating light pollution, this is the first International Dark Sky Community in California, making it a prime spot for stargazing. During daylight hours, explore the town of Borrego Springs and keep an eye out for the cool statues of other-worldly creatures made by metal sculptor Ricardo Breceda. One of Breceda’s largest collections of work

Explore the rugged northern coastline of the Stornetta Public Lands. PHOTOS COURTESY VISIT CALIFORNIA

can be viewed in the city of Borrego Springs. As you drive through the roads in the area, you’ll see sculptures of wild horses in a nearby field, sabre tooth tigers in pursuit and desert tortoises that seem as if they’re crawling through the brush. More than 130 metal sculptures are located in Borrego Springs. For more information, about the sculptures visit www.visit california.com/experience/ricardobreceda-sculptures.

Gilroy Gardens

3050 Hecker Pass Highway, Gilroy, 95020 Miles from the SCV: 340 Info www.gilroygardens.org The park is open and they are taking reservations. To find the craziest trees you’ve ever seen travel to Gilroy, 40 miles inland from Santa Cruz. If you’ve heard of Gilroy at all, it is probably in relation to its worldfamous Garlic Festival, held annually in July. This year’s festival will be held July 23-25 and July 30-August 1. However, there is more to Gilroy than garlic. Take in the elaborately

The beautiful night sky at Anza-Borrego Desert State Park.

grafted trees at the Gilroy Gardens theme park. Watch the trees twist and contort in fanciful ways that you have to see for yourself. The park, in California’s Central Coast, combines a unique adventure in Mother Nature with amusement park rides. The family-friendly theme park features more than 40 rides, many with produce-inspired themes, such as the Mushroom Swing, the Artichoke Dip, the Garlic Twirl (a no-brainer in the Garlic Capital of the World) and a water park. However, the world-famous Circus Trees, are really the highlight of this road trip.

Murphys

Murphys, California 95247 Miles from the SCV 330 Info visitmurphys.com What? Where? Under-the-radar wine-tasting in California’s Gold Country can be found about 85 miles southeast of Sacramento. California has no shortage of wine country tasting destinations. But if you’re looking for a lesser-known locale for sipping, head to the quaint town of Murphys, where more than two dozen boutique wineries are open year-round. Murphys calls itself “The Queen of the Sierras.” Gold Country has a deep history (thanks to the prospectors) and impressive natural features. The city also offers art galleries, antique stores and, on May 29 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. there is the Craft and Vendor Fair. Much to do.

Point Arena— Stornetta Public Lands 45500 Lighthouse Road, Point Arena, 95468

Miles from the SCV 490 Info PointArenaLighthouse.com This rugged northern coastline is perfect for whale-watching and enjoying the beauty of the Pacific Ocean. Located about 140 miles north of San Francisco, the untouched beauty of Point Arena-Stornetta Public Lands, contains 1,700 acres filled with dramatic seascapes. View the rugged coastline from the top of Point Arena’s 115-foot historic lighthouse, the tallest of its kind on the Pacific Coast. Depending on the time of year, you’ll catch glimpses of humpback, blue or gray whales coming up for air as they migrate between Alaska and Mexico. The lighthouse is open along with their six vacation cottages.

Sierra Vista Scenic Byway

Miles from the SCV 250 Info sierravistascenicbyway.com This hidden treasure starts at North Fork, 45 miles from Fresno, and is in the geographic center of California. If you’re into granite domes, glaciated peaks and twisty scenic roads with barely any people around, drive this 100-mile stretch of road between Yosemite National Park and Sequoia and Kings Canyon national parks. It is an epic alpine byway worth a road trip. You’ll immediately get a feel for what California looked like a century ago, and you can embrace the time-machine theme with stops at the Jesse Ross Cabin from the 1860s and Jones’ Store, which still doesn’t have electricity (but does have great pie). There’s lots to see and do, and if you dare, try a classic California rafting adventure. 

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M AY 23, 2021

N E W S F E AT U R E

Swimming Safety Tips for Summer

laying in or around water is one of the joys of summer, but this treasured seasonal pastime comes with some serious risks. Drowning is the second-leading cause of accidental death for children under the age of 14 in the United States, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. As COVID-19 restrictions ease, many families will have informal gatherings and take trips to the beach, increasing the potential for children to have unsupervised access to water. Because of this, it’s important for children to take swimming lessons to learn water safety skills and create safer habits in and around water. As swimming lessons begin across the country, many are being conducted safely with COVID-19 precautions in place. Protect your family’s safety around water this summer with these tips from the Make a Splash Tour, presented by Phillips 66 and the USA Swimming Foundation. Designate a water watcher and closely monitor children Designate a water watcher when you are in, on or around water. Watch all children and adolescents swimming or playing in or around water, even if they know how to swim. Keeping young children or inexperienced swimmers within arm’s length at all times can help ensure you’re able to provide assistance if and when it’s needed.

Wear a life jacket Anyone participating in any boating, paddling or towed water sports, regardless of swimming ability in pool or open water situations, should wear a Coast Guard-approved life jacket. Preschool-aged children (5 years old and younger), who are not protected by touch supervision, in particular, should always wear a life jacket. Swimming aids and water toys — such as water wings, inflatable water wings and rings - are not intended to be life-saving devices. Learn to swim Research has shown formal swimming lessons reduce the risk of childhood

drowning by 88%. Through the annual Make a Splash Tour, the USA Swimming Foundation, with the support of Phillips 66, encourages children’s swim lessons. By equipping your child with the skill of swimming, you’ll open doors to a lifetime of safety, fun, fitness and even employment opportunities. While lessons progressively teach a variety of swimming strokes, some of the most important things swimmers learn — even in beginner classes — are breath control and how to float. These basic skills are essential for staying above water should someone find himself or herself unable to touch or too tired to swim to safety. Children can participate in swimming lessons before they can walk, and parent-child swim lessons provide bonding opportunities along with water safety education. Swim in designated areas and obey posted signs and flags Ropes, buoys and flags in larger bodies of water like lakes or oceans are commonly used to mark off safe swimming areas and provide visual cues about changes in depth, underwater surfaces and currents. Teach children what these signs and markers mean and that they’re in place as safety tools, not toys to play with or float on. Learn CPR If the unthinkable does happen, knowing how to perform CPR allows you to take immediate action, which has been shown to significantly better the outcome for children with submersion injuries. In the time it takes for paramedics to arrive, you could save someone’s life. Seconds count; the quicker CPR is started, the better the chances of recovery. There are many places that offer CPR training, including community organizations and nonprofit groups. Remember to keep your certification current once you have completed the initial requirements. Make safety a priority for your summer water fun. For more information, including swim lesson providers in your area, visit usaswimming.org/ makeasplash. (Family Features) 

Finding a swim lesson provider

If you’re unsure where to take your child for swim lessons in your community, these tips can help: • Ask other parents in your area where they take their children. You can ask people you know and use social media and neighborhood boards to get tips. • Another resource is online search tools, such as usaswimming.org/makeasplash, which allows you to search for swim lesson providers near you. Many of these programs also offer options for free or reduced-cost swim lessons. • Once you identify a program, visit the facility with your child to see how swim lessons are run. • Learn the program expectations for you as a parent or guardian. • Inquire about the provider’s approach and learn-to-swim philosophy. While researching programs, some industry best practices to look for include: • Ask about the facility’s COVID-19 mitigation protocols. Swim lessons can be safely administered with proper protective equipment and procedures. • A nationally recognized learn-to-swim curriculum or an independently developed learnto-swim curriculum that follows a similar model. • Trained and certified instructors, with ondeck lifeguards holding current CPR and first aid certifications. • A maximum 6-to-1 student-to-instructor ratio for group lessons. • Minimum of 30 minutes per week of in-water instruction with a minimum total in-water instruction time of four hours. 

M AY 23, 2021

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N E W S F E AT U R E

Enjoying the great outdoors in, and around, the SCV By Emily Alvarenga Signal Staff Writer

here is something fundamentally healthy about spending time outdoors, and after more than a year quarantining indoors for the most part, it’s time to get outside. Nature is, in fact, a magical thing, and can actually have strong healing powers, such as improving mood, boosting the immune system and increasing anti-cancer proteins, according to studies. With COVID-19 restrictions easing, it’s getting easier to get back outside and into nature, including right here in the Santa Clarita Valley.

Take a hike (or a bike)

With 12,000 acres of open space and more than 100 miles of trails and paseos that traverse the SCV, you don’t have to go far to find a spot to hike, bike or just walk. The pandemic created a huge at-home exercise boom across the nation, with biking at its center. Rusty bikes were dusted off in the garage, while sales for new bikes surged. In fact, one in 10 American adults reported having ridden a bike for the first time in a year (or longer) since the onset of COVID-19, according to research by People for Bikes. Longtime biker and Valencia resident Chris Morley saw the spike firsthand, as she not only had to wait months for her new e-bike and even a bike rack that were on back-order, but she also saw the number of people on her favorite trail increase dramatically. “It’s insane,” Morley said. “So many people are out on the trails since COVID.” And since her new bike’s arrival in July, she’s put nearly 2,000 miles on it, riding the same trail. “I’m addicted to this bike,” Morley added. There are also various hiking and mountain

EverWild SCV teachers Valentina and David Knopf work with students during forest school in Santa Clarita. PHOTO COURTESY EVERWILD

biking trails that run through the SCV’s hillsides, along with the newly constructed Trek Bike Park of Santa Clarita, that offer plenty of options for each skill level. For more information on biking in Santa Clarita, visit www.bikesantaclarita.com, or visit hikesantaclarita.com for hiking information.

Staying ‘EverWild’ in the SCV

For children, getting outside can give them the freedom to run, jump and play. And while physical activities like these are good for their health and physical development, it also allows them to explore their natural environment and adventure. That’s why the nonprofit EverWild is working to merge nature with education, allowing kids the chance to spend more time outdoors. “It’s an 100% outdoor-based program for children that is generally child led and mentor supported,” co-founder and executive director Amanda Caloia explained. “The way that children learn is through inquiry-based learning, so generally what that means is our projects and lessons revolve around what is happening in nature.” More recently, SCV natives Valentina and David Knopf wanted to bring the program to the area, allowing local children the opportunity to have an outdoor classroom setting where they can learn about the native plants and their own community. “We’re really lucky, as most towns don’t have open spaces like we do, and we really don’t take advantage of it in this community,” Valentina Knopf

Chris Morley peddles her electric bike on the bike paths near the Iron Horse Trailhead in Valencia. Exploring the city’s miles of connected paseos is just one way to enjoy nature in the SCV. PHOTO BY DAN WATSON / THE SIGNAL

said. “Even in the short time that we’ve been here, all the parents are just so grateful to be able to have their children explore the mountainside. … It’s been growing in a really organic way and we’re just so happy to be here.” In addition to EverWild’s Nature Immersion program, which serves children preschool through sixth grade, the organization is hosting summer camps split into age groups, where participants are set to travel to nearby adventure destinations. EverWild is also raising funds to provide scholarships for families from low-income households in the SCV. Enrollment for summer camps is now open, with camps scheduled to begin June 7, while school year enrollment is set to open June 1. For more information, call Valentina Knopf at (661) 234-7962 or visit everwildla.com.

Dip your toes at Castaic Lake’s shores

Castaic Lake is the largest state water project reservoir in Southern California, with more than 11,000 acres of parkland and open space habitat, with the park open daily from sunrise to sunset, except on Dec. 25. The lakes are open to various water activities, including boating, fishing, wakeboarding, jet-skiing, swimming, kayaking, sailing and more, while the park itself has more than seven miles of trails for all skill levels to explore, all of which are open to mountain bikes, equestrians and hikers. The Friends of Castaic Lake hosts events at the lake, with a number of family-friendly activities coming soon this summer, such as moonlight fishing and float tubing, according to Dan Trippeda, vice president. See OUTDOORS, page 13

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M AY 23, 2021

N E W S F E AT U R E

Family fun by the rules of the range By Caleb Lunetta Signal Staff Writer

athered together under the hot summer sun Thursday, members of the Holm family stand side by side donned in protective eye and ear wear. The two children, Chloe and Nick, had appropriately sized .22 caliber bolt actions, and as they fired to ping their targets, their father, Peter, gave them the proper instruction. Have the barrel of the gun pointed away from everyone, finger on the trigger only when to fire, keep the action open when laid down and not firing, and know where your target is down range and what’s behind it. And all of the rules are superseded by their “Golden Rule”: Treat every gun as if it was loaded. “I have an oldest that started in 4-H,” said Peter, before gesturing back to his youngest two kids. “It’s his first time and her second time. We just started her last week.” When asked if they were enjoying themselves, learning the safety rules and firing the rifles at metal targets on a Thursday morning, both kids, especially Chloe, donning pink ear muffs and glasses, said they ‘re having fun. The sport of shooting, whether it be with rifles at paper targets, pistols at pieces of metal or shotguns pointed at flying clay targets, is a hobby that can be enjoyed by people of all ages, according to local gun experts. And within the Santa Clarita Valley alone, there are at least two nearby options for those looking to brush up or get into shooting.

Oak Tree Gun Club

Oak Tree Gun Club, since it has been owned for the last few decades by Betsy James and her father, has been a family-owned and run operation. She says this type of structure and atmosphere has created a property that is family-minded. “It is a family-owned, family-run operation and it’s generational. My dad was the second owner of the property when the previous own-

Peter Holm instructs his daughter, Chloe, on how to use the sights on her .22 caliber rifle at A Place to Shoot. PHOTOS BY DAN WATSON / THE SIGNAL

er passed away, then I took over the operations, and I have two children: I have a teenage son and a 9-year-old,” said James. “Most of our staff are not only professional instructors and purveyors of the sport themselves, but they also have families — so, we practice what we preach.” James said Oak Tree has striven to create an atmosphere that gives kids a healthy appreciation of firearms, from offering classes on gun safety, to running them through the basic form and styles of shooting, to teaching them to stay away from firearms when appropriate. “It’s not about shooting, it’s about appreciating safety and the sport itself,” said James. “And most kids that come out, we start typically with smaller-caliber guns or rifles, with an instructor.” Those wishing to spectate are also allowed on the range, said James, are allowed to watch, or visit the restaurant, or simply enjoy their time alongside their family who are shooting. “Our sort of our claim to fame is that we provide a one-stop experience for encompassing all recreational shooting activities,” said James. “We have pistol services, handgun services, shotguns services, rifle services and we’ve added archery services. We have all of the rental, accessories and

products; we provide instruction.” “We have basically everything that you need to have a safe, fun recreational shooting experience,” she added. To learn more about the various services offered at Oak Tree Gun Club, visit their website at http://www. oaktreegunclub.com/. The property is located at 23121 Coltrane Ave. in Newhall.

A Place to Shoot

Nestled away in the hills of San Francisquito Canyon is a familiar spot to many known simply as A Place To Shoot. Although they do not offer gun rentals like Oak Tree Gun Club, co-owner Tom Watt says they do offer a similar learning experience for young families looking to jump into the sport of shooting in terms of teaching safety and offering affordable prices to families. “The kids love it, they really do, especially when you go up to the paper target pistol range because they can shoot .22 up there,” said Watt. “And once they start seeing what they’re pulling and hitting and seeing how good they can do it, they get pretty excited over it.” Watt said that the range also features manual clay pigeon throwers for the shotgun range that allows the kids to not only be closer to the target, but

gives them better control over the throwing and shooting. Similar to Oak Tree, A Place to Shoot offers classes and instruction for non-beginners and beginners alike, with professional range masters helping those in need along the way. Additionally, they sell ammo to the experienced and over 9 million new registered new gun owners nationwide that wish to shoot on the range. A place to shoot offers a variety of ranges, including an instructional rental range, a range for members, a handgun range, a fixed firing line range, a shotgun trap range, a handgun and small-caliber rifle range, a high-power rifle range and sporting clays for shotgun users. These services, and others like it, Watt said, have provided 4H members, boy scouts, sportsmen and families a central hub for shooting in the Santa Clarita Valley for the last three decades. However, everyone that visits most follows the four rules:

1. Keep your rifle down range 2. Do not load your firearm until ready to shoot 3. Keep your finger off the trigger un-

til ready to shoot

4. Now where your target is, and

what’s around it. “If you own your own firearm and you come out, my range people can give you spot on little critique you’re shooting to help you along the way, if you own your own firearm, and you don’t want to take the time, or the expense for a class, you know, they’re more than willing to help you out for a few minutes,” said Watt. “They’re more than willing and more than qualified to be able to help you out when you come in.” “Of course, they have to keep an eye on the line and take care of business as normal,” he added. A Place to Shoot is located at 33951 San Francisquito Canyon Road, Santa Clarita. Call (661) 296-5552 for more information. 

M AY 23, 2021

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F R O M T H E M AY O R

River Rally, Rain Barrels and Recycle Heroes … oh my! By Bill Miranda Santa Clarita City Mayor

an you believe we are nearly halfway through 2021? It seems like just yesterday we were together at the 2019 River Rally cleaning the Santa Clara River; but even through a pandemic, our City’s commitment to providing green programming has remained steadfast. Through various socially-distanced events like the Neighborhood Cleanup and Online Environmental Expo, Green Santa Clarita has supported the City’s efforts to educate and provide green resources for residents. So many green programs have happened during the last few months, and we’re only getting started. Let’s take a quick look at what has been done, and what programs will

be returning as COVID-19 restrictions continue to lift. In April, the City accepted its 31st consecutive Tree City USA award from the National Arbor Day Foundation. To celebrate, the City released a comprehensive Earth Arbor Day video program that featured myself and my fellow councilmembers along with staff members from Hike, Bike and Green Santa Clarita. While we were not able to celebrate in person like years before, residents picked up free bags of mulch at the Centre to put their new tree planting skills to work at their homes. I invite you to watch the full Earth Arbor Day program by visiting the City’s YouTube page @CityofSanta Clarita. Residents also had the chance to join the no-pollute commute for the City’s annual Bike to Work Challenge in May, which was a week-long opportunity for local businesses and their employees to bike to work for a

chance to win amazing raffle prizes including gift cards and even a brand-new bike! We were excited to see 162 participants leave their car at home and join us this year. We know that water is a vital resource we must preserve, that’s why the City is proud to have delivered the first set of rain collection barrels to participating residents for our pilot rain barrel program. This popular program sold out quickly, so be sure to look for more opportunities in the fall to get your own rain barrel at a discount! Speaking of the fall season, the City’s annual River Rally Cleanup and Environmental Expo will make its grand return later this year! This year’s event will feature added health precautions to ensure the safety of our volunteers. We have collected over 450,000 pounds of waste from the Santa Clara River since the first River Rally in 1995, and I look forward to seeing

our community members utilize this valuable volunteering opportunity as a way to make new friends, engage with their community and most importantly, be a part of the City’s efforts to keep Santa Clarita green and clean! Residents can learn more about the City’s green efforts and upcoming events on GreenSantaClarita.com or on Facebook @GreenSanta Clarita. Don’t forget to use the hashtags #GreenSantaClarita and #RecycleHeroSC on social media! Between our bold Recycle Hero campaign, the upcoming River Rally Cleanup and the rain barrel program, Santa Clarita is blooming with green opportunities. 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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M AY 23, 2021

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

The Canyon brings live music to Santa Clarita

he Canyon Santa Clarita, after a 14-month shutdown brought on by the pandemic, is open for business, and once again bringing live music to Santa Clarita. Upcoming shows include the Marshall Tucker Band, Big Bad Voodoo Daddy, English Beat, WAR, Missing Persons, Queen Nation, and more.

In other news, The Canyon has joined forces with the City of Santa Clarita, The Boys & Girls Club plus Manuel White & OneEleven to the create The Santa Clarita Soundtraac Family Music Festival, August 7 and 8 at Santa Clarita Central Park, from noon to 9 p.m.. The featured performers will be comprised of a healthy mix of nation-

al headlining talent and some of the best local acts the community has to offer. The full line-up will be announced in June. As the name suggests, the Santa Clarita Soundtraac Family Music Festival is an event the whole family can enjoy together, with food, drinks, midway-type games and family-friendly activities.

Early bird tickets are on sale now through Ticketmaster.com or by calling The Canyon box office at (888) 645-5006. For a complete list of events coming up at The Canyon Santa Clarita, and to stay up to date on the Santa Clarita Soundtraac Family Music Festival, visit www.WhereMusicMeetsTheSoul. com. 

M AY 23, 2021

Give

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 1 1

Spring Saladsa Fresh Spin

FOOD

ith spring and warmer weather comes salad season, offering a perfect canvas for creating refreshing meals and appetizers centered around tasty greens, juicy tomatoes and crave-worthy dressings. Give your salads an update by avoiding the same tired mixes and instead create tasty meals fit for the season. One easy way to up your salad game is by starting with quality ingredients like Fresh Express salad blends, NatureSweet Cherubs Tomatoes and Litehouse refrigerated salad dressings. These fresh, flavorful ingredients can be combined in a dish like this Chimichurri Chickpea Salad, a perfect way to go green this spring for nearly any occasion. Part of the appeal of dishing up a homemade salad is the unlimited options you have at your fingertips to make the bowl of greens uniquely “yours.” For many, this means one thing: the more toppings, the better. With grilled chicken, crispy bacon, tomatoes, ripe avocado, hard-boiled eggs, blue cheese and a bed of fresh lettuce, this classic Cobb Salad offers an ideal lunch or even a quick family meal. Because both these recipes can be made in 20 minutes or less, they provide simple solutions when short on time. Plus, the fresh ingredients sum up everything spring meals are made of. Find more ways to create easy yet delicious salads at litehousefoods.com/iheartsalad. (Family Features) 

Chimichurri Chickpea Salad

Servings: 4 1 cup fresh cilantro 2/3 cup fresh parsley 2 tablespoons dried oregano 2 garlic cloves, minced 1/4 cup red wine vinegar 2/3 cup olive oil 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon pepper 1 can (14 1/2 ounces) chickpeas, drained 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes 1 bag Fresh Express Baby Kale Mix 1 cup NatureSweet Cherubs Tomatoes, diced 1 medium avocado, diced 4 tablespoons Litehouse Avocado Ranch Dressing In food processor, combine cilantro, parsley, oregano, garlic, red wine vinegar, olive oil, salt and pepper. Pulse until sauce is smooth.

Chimichurri Chickpea Salad Cobb Salad

Servings: 4 3-4 eggs 1/4 pound bacon 1 bag Fresh Express Sweet Butter Lettuce 1 pound grilled chicken 1 cup NatureSweet Cherubs Tomatoes, halved 1 ripe avocado, sliced 1/4 cup blue cheese 1/4 cup Litehouse Homestyle Ranch Dressing Bring pot of water to boil. Use slotted spoon to place eggs in water. Boil 10 minutes then transfer to ice bath to stop cooking process. Peel eggs and slice.

Place chimichurri sauce in small bowl with chickpeas and crushed red pepper flakes; toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate overnight, if possible.

Heat skillet over medium heat. Dice bacon and add to pan. Saute until bacon is crispy and fat is rendered, about 7 minutes. Remove from pan with slotted spoon.

Divide kale, tomatoes and avocado between four bowls. Top each bowl evenly with marinated chickpeas. Drizzle with avocado ranch dressing and serve.

To assemble salad, start with bed of lettuce. Top with hard-boiled eggs, grilled chicken, tomatoes, avocado, bacon and blue cheese; toss in ranch dressing.

Cobb Salad

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M AY 23, 2021

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

Hitchcock-inspired ‘Woman’ doesn’t quite hit the mark By Richard Roeper Signal Contributing Writer

‘The Woman in the Window’

1/2 (out of four)

Netflix. Directed by Joe Wright and written by Tracy Letts, based on the novel by A.J. Finn. Rated R.

hen the movie year draws to a close, there’s a solid chance “The Woman in the Window” will be the most prestigious project on my annual Worst Films of the Year list. Maybe — JUST MAYBE — if you pour just the right glass of wine or sparkling water and you’re in the mood for a howler of a film that practically dares you to talk back to the screen, you can sit through this without wanting to scream. Maybe. Based on the popular and well-received novel of the same name by A.J. Finn, adapted for the screen by the great actor-writer Tracy Letts of Steppenwolf and Broadway fame, directed by Joe Wright (“Atonement,” “Darkest Hour”) and starring multiple Academy Award nominee Amy Adams as well as Oscar winners Gary Oldman and Julianne Moore, “The Woman in the Window” has all the elements of awards season bait — but it’s barrel-bottom chum. Clearly inspired by the works of Alfred Hitchcock, most notably “Rear Window,” this stagey, clunky production is set almost entirely in and around the New York City apartment of Dr. Anna Fox (Adams), a psychologist with agoraphobia who is separated from her husband (Anthony Mackie) and daughter and seems to be suffering from paranoid delusions brought on by a dangerous mixture of meds and alcohol. Anna careens about her gloomy and cluttered apartment in a bathrobe, swilling wine and popping pills, talking on the phone with her estranged husband — and spying on the family that has just moved in across the street and conveniently keeps the curtains drawn at all hours. Meet the Russell family, in the order Anna meets them, as they come knocking and/or banging on her door, or sometimes just seem to materialize out of nowhere inside her apartment. The teenage son Ethan (Fred Hechinger) appears to be some-

where on the spectrum, and Anna suspects Ethan has been abused. Wife Jane (Julianne Moore) — that’s right, she’s Jane Russell, just like the oldtimey movie star — is scattered and high-strung and seems more than a little dangerous. Then there’s Alistair Russell (Gary Oldman), who roars like a lion and continually warns Anna to mind her own business — but Anna can’t mind her own business when she witnesses Jane getting stabbed to death one night. Problem is, when the cops are summoned, they can find no evidence a crime was committed, and Jane is just fine. Except that’s Jennifer Jason Leigh claiming SHE’S Jane Russell, and Julianne Moore is nowhere to be found, and what’s the deal with Anna’s creepy downstairs tenant David (Wyatt Russell) anyway? He’s clearly up to no good. “The Woman in the Window” is filled with dramatic touches such as a dizzying overhead shot of a staircase and a skylight just begging for someone to come crashing through. It’s also filled with cheap scares, false alarms, dumb cops, loud storms and tricky camera angles designed to make us feel as disoriented as Anna. The only thing those elements really succeed in doing is giving us a headache.

‘Hacks’



1/2 A 10-episode series presenting two new episodes each Thursday HBO Max.

ust as one can’t help but think of early-career Joan Rivers while watching “The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel,” it’s impossible not to think of late-career Joan Rivers while watching the fantastically funny, sharp, knowing and insightful new comedy series “Hacks” on HBO, with the great Jean Smart once again delivering Emmy-quality work. Smart absolutely owns the role of the 70-something Deborah Vance, a brassy, trailblazing, oldschool stand-up comic who has a longstanding residency at a Las Vegas hotel/casino, wears expensive but loud outfits, hawks bargain jewelry on a TV shopping network, is forever dealing with a grown daughter who can’t escape her shadow and

PHOTO COURTESY IMDB

you get the idea, right? Joan. Rivers. Not that Smart is executing anything close to an impersonation of Rivers. This is a big, brilliant, wholly original performance, with Smart constantly shifting emotional gears and deftly stealing every scene she’s in while somehow also managing to make room for the other actors in the room to have their moments. She’s a wonder to behold — and she has a terrific comedic partner in relative newcomer Hannah Einbinder, who plays a millennial writer-comedian named Ava hired to punch up Deborah’s solid but increasingly tired act, which still contains references to Anna Nicole Smith and men who leave the toilet seat up. Showrunners Paul W. Downs, Lucia Aniello and Jen Statsky have created an instantly addictive, bitingly hilarious situation comedy — not a “sitcom,” with all the baggage that entails, but a genuinely laugh-producing show borne of admittedly exaggerated situations that still seem semi-plausible. Einbinder’s Ava Daniels is an entitled, self-centered, sarcastic, Los Angeles-based 25-year-old who achieved a modicum of fame as an internet comic when she was just 20 but has hit a career roadblock after being “canceled” when she tweeted a snarky joke about a closeted politician. Meanwhile, in Las Vegas, Smart’s Deborah Vance has set a record with 2,500 shows, is about to have a street named in her honor and has a giant billboard outside the Palmetto Ca-

sino, where she has headlined for years — but the casino’s owner, Marty (Christopher McDonald) wants to bump Deborah’s Friday and Saturday shows in favor of an EDM act that recently won a televised talent show. Deborah’s punchline-oriented, well-worn routine still has the Florida tourists laughing, but she’s not cutting it with the next generation(s). As plot would have it, Deborah and Ava share an agent: Paul W. Downs’ Jimmy, who kills it with every line reading. Jimmy figures he can solve two clients’ problems with one move: Ava will drive to Vegas and work with Deborah and spice up her act with current-day humor, thus giving Ava work and making Deborah more relevant. Smart and Einbinder are stunningly good together, as Deborah and Ava clash in their initial meetings, most of which take place in Deborah’s obscenely huge mansion outside the Vegas Strip. Ava is so arrogant she didn’t bother to research Deborah’s career, which spans all the way back to the 1970s and includes a hit sitcom and a shot at making late-night talk show history that evaporated after a scandal, while Deborah rolls her eyes at Ava’s “woke” scolding and says Ava’s writing is just a bunch of random thoughts and observations with no structure. The two of them don’t realize, at least at first, how scathingly funny they both are when they go after one another. This is the kind of show that’s brimming with interesting, funny and real supporting characters as well, from the aforementioned Marty the casino owner and Jimmy the agent to Deborah’s housekeeper, Josefina (Rose Abdoo); her COO, Marcus (Carl Clemons-Hopkins), and her troublesome grown daughter, DJ (the comedic force Kaitlin Olson. Even when we take a subplot detour into the lives of the backup players, “Hacks” never loses its edge — but it’s when Smart and Einbinder have the floor to themselves that this show sparkles brighter than Deborah’s outfits under the Vegas spotlight. Sure, that line is a little hacky, but it’s the truth. 

M AY 23, 2021

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 1 3

N E W S F E AT U R E

There is a lot to explore at the Placerita Canyon State Park. The trails are open with current distancing restrictions. PHOTO BY DAN WATSON / THE SIGNAL

SCV trail and paseo safety tips • Stay alert at all times, while walking or biking. EverWild SCV teacher Valentina Knopf works with students during forest school. PHOTOS COURTESY EVERWILD

OUTDOORS

Continued from page 7

If you’re feeling generous, One Piece at a Time hosts monthly lake clean up days, while the Friends of Castaic Lake also host a monthly Pride In The Lake Day. In addition, the Castaic Area Town Council is sponsoring drive-in movie nights on the second

Saturdays of the month, with proceeds going toward the council, as well as local nonprofits. The park also offers camping and picnicking locations, with fishing boats available to rent. Castaic Lake’s swim beach is set to open mid-June and is located at 32132 Castaic Lake Drive. For more information, call (661) 257-4050 or visit castaiclake.com.

• Walkers should always stay out of the bike lane, when possible. • Bike with the flow of traffic and obey traffic laws. • Don’t pass on turns or corners. • Ride single-file or drop in for oncoming traffic.

Take a walk on the wild side at the Placerita Nature Center

As COVID-19 restrictions are eased, the Placerita Nature Center has been able to resume some of its most popular free programs, giving the visiting public various ways to interact with nature, according to Ranger Frank Hoffman, head ranger and park supervisor. Every Saturday from 11 a.m. to noon, for example, families can go on an easy, hour-long nature walk to explore the natural area’s animals, plants and cultural history. The center also offers bird walks at 8 a.m. on the first and second Saturday of every month for birders of all levels. Take a walk around the park on the fourth Saturday of every month at 9;30 a.m. in search of the blooms of season to see the native plants that are seasonally blooming year-round along the trails. The Placerita Nature Center is located at 19152 Placerita Canyon Road in Newhall. For more information, call (661) 259-7721 or visit placerita. org. 

Castaic Lake is the largest state water project reservoir in Southern California with more than 11,000 acres of parkland and open space habitat.

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M AY 23, 2021

HOME

Improve wellness with affordable bathroom upgrades

ellness is at the forefront of nearly everyone’s mind, including keeping germs at bay and creating surroundings that promote mental and physical health. Even small, but important, spaces like the bathroom can benefit from changes with wellness in mind. A bathroom can be one of the easiest rooms in your home to give a little extra TLC toward creating a healthier lifestyle. These cost-effective measures can turn your bathroom into a more practical, functional space that promotes your well-being.

Switch up surfaces

The countertops in your bathroom, much like the flooring, must be able to withstand a lot of water. Nonporous vanity tops, such as those made from quartz, hold up to being wet constantly and can help keep germs from breeding. In addition to being easy to clean, a solid-surface option like quartz never needs to be sealed

way to improve overall indoor air quality. What you use to clean yourself is just as important. Using green or organic personal care items can help reduce toxin exposure and lessen the likelihood of an allergic reaction.

Reduce humidity

or polished, making it an aesthetically pleasing, long-lasting option.

Clean green

Bathrooms are often hot and steamy places, and water vapors in the air can carry potentially harmful chemicals from cleaning products. Green cleaning products are made to control the spread of bacteria and viruses using safe and effective means. Not only are they helpful in preventing asthma attacks and other respiratory ailments, but they are a low-cost

All that steam can affect your health in other ways, too, since it creates a humid environment that encourages mold and mildew. A heated towel rack is an inexpensive way to add a touch of luxury to your space while generating heat that helps reduce humidity and the growth of mold and mildew, therefore benefiting indoor air quality. Heated towel racks like those from Amba Products come in a variety of finishes and styles to coordinate with your decor. For modest accommodations, the Radiant Small is a space-saving choice, and freestanding models are available if wall space is at a premium. Another advantage:

Since the racks dry towels, they’ll stay mildew-free longer and don’t need to be washed as often, which helps save valuable natural resources.

Enhance air quality

Creating a green, spa-like oasis with plants can bring wellness benefits that don’t break the bank. Indoor plants help rid the environment of pollutants, and the energy and ambiance they add may have mental health benefits, too. Plants like mother-in-law’s tongue or peace lily are popular options to incorporate as natural air purifiers.

Explore color

A bathroom’s color palette can also play a role in your wellness goals. Warmer shades like red and orange enhance energy while cooler colors like green and blue can be calming. Begin planning bathroom upgrades that improve your health and well-being with more tips and ideas at ambaproducts.com. (Family Features) 

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M AY 23, 2021

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 1 5

Smart ways to keep travel spending in check

FINANCE

ith more people getting vaccinated, many are looking forward to reuniting with loved ones and making up for lost vacation time. However, budget is often a primary concern when planning a trip. To help make your money go further, consider these tips from the travel experts at Vrbo.

Explore a new destination

With pent up travel demand, many popular travel destinations have already been booked months in advance. Instead of visiting traditionally popular locales, consider an under-the-radar destination like Cherry Log, Georgia; Bella Vista, Arkansas; or Slade, Kentucky, which all offer scenic views and outdoor adventures. Before booking, check for any travel advisories or restrictions for your destination.

Be flexible with dates

Rather than selecting your dates first and finding a destination that works for your selected date range, choose a destination then see what accommodations are available. For example, doing an undated search through a vacation rental company like Vrbo can yield a wider selection for a particular destination, including some budget-friendly options. After selecting your lodging, check the dates to determine when it’s available or most affordable

and plan your trip accordingly.

Fly on off-peak days or times

If flying to your destination is necessary and you’re not on a tight schedule, being flexible with the time of day you fly, the number of stops or having a longer layover can translate to a more affordable price. Generally, flying earlier in the week or later in the day is less expensive than flying closer to the weekend or taking the first flight out.

The benefits of travel insurance

ccording to the data identity firm Adara, domestic flight and hotel bookings for travel between July 1 and August 31, 2021, tripled between February 1 and mid-March. July and August mark peak summer vacation season, and the increase in flight and hotel bookings suggests a growing confidence that summer travel will once again be safe in 2021. With so many people returning to travel this summer, now is a good time for vacationers to consider travel insurance, and why it could be the best accessory travelers can have in the months ahead.

Trip cancellations and interruptions

The financial experts at NerdWallet note that travel insurance policies may reimburse travelers whose flights were canceled or whose trips were interrupted. Consumers should determine just what is covered in regard to interruptions. A Cancel for Any Reason addendum, also known as a CFAR, is one potential option travelers can consider. Such an add-on allows travelers to cancel their trips for any reason and receive a partial refund for what they paid.

Lost or damaged baggage

Airlines will no doubt welcome a busy travel season this summer after a largely lost, financially devastating 2020. United Airlines acknowledged in January 2021 that it lost $1.9 billion in the final three months of 2020. Summer 2021 will hopefully help airlines get back on track, but the challenges of accommodating such a significant uptick in travelers could increase the likelihood that baggage is lost or damaged. Travel insurance policies can provide a safety net against lost, damaged or even delayed baggage.

Medical emergencies

No one wants to imagine having a medical emergency while on vacation. But such incidents happen, and a travel insurance policy can cover travelers for emergency medical expenses, including transport home. That could be an especially important benefit during an era when public health remains somewhat unpredictable. Travel is making a comeback this summer. Travelers who want a little extra security on vacation this summer can purchase a travel insurance policy to protect themselves against the unknown. (MC) 

Book now, pay later

When securing lodging and other amenities such as rental cars, you can often book your reservations without paying the full amount up front. Whether you simply place a deposit at the time of booking and pay the rest upon arrival or split the total cost into monthly payments, this type of option can provide an added level of flexibility when budgeting for and planning your trip.

Book accommodations that offer lengthof-stay discounts

These days, remote work and school allows for flexibility while traveling, and there are discounts to be found if you choose to stay for longer than just a few nights. In fact, some vacation rental hosts offer discounts for new listings or week- or monthlong stays. Vacation rental companies like Vrbo allows travelers to use filters to find discounted properties when searching for a place to stay.

Look for free activities

If you research your destination before departing, you’ll likely be able to find free or low-cost activities that interest you. Check community calendars to find events while you’ll be in town and consider options like museums, art galleries or national parks, which are often free to the public or offer discounted admission on certain days or at specific times each day.

Take advantage of public transportation

One of the best ways to get to know a city is to walk everywhere, but that isn’t feasible in all cities and locations. Rather than renting a car or using ride-sharing services, look for public transportation options such as buses or subways that are more cost-effective when possible. Also consider a frequent-travel card if you’ll be traversing your destination more than once or twice. Visit Vrbo.com more resources and information to save money on your next adventure. (Family Features) 

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M AY 23, 2021

Lavender and Rosemary

GARDENING

Perfect plants for the SCV garden By Jane Gates Signal Staff Writer

ur upper chaparral climate offers hot, dry summers, and cooler and variably moist winters. Although the soil varies in clay, stone and sand content, all our native soil is lacking in organics. Two excellent plants that actually enjoy our environment are Lavender (Lavendula) and Rosemary (Rosmarinus). These plants are remarkably adaptable to our lean soils and thrive where the sun would burn most other plants. They will also accept a little dappled shade. During blooming season, lavender and rosemary plants are covered with small blue, purple, pink or white flowers. Both types of plants are woody shrubs that remain evergreen through the winter. Use them singly, as a group or to form a nice backdrop for other flowering plants. Some lavender plants can grow into 5-foot-tall shrubs, while dwarf varieties can stay as low as 18 inches. We have been experiencing relatively warm winters, particularly at night, for the past several years. If you recently planted lavender in your garden, there is a good chance almost any variety will have fared well. In the past, however, it has not been abnormal for temperatures to drop into the low twenties or even the high teens in colder areas. Whether things go warmer, cooler or stay the same, probably the most

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resilient lavender for the Santa Clarita Valley is the Spanish lavender, Lavendula stoeches. This is a medium-sized plant, usually staying at about 2 to 3 feet in height, so it fits easily into many landscape designs. The flowers are showy with what look like tall, colorful feathers topping the spike of blooms. Although Spanish lavender is most commonly found with reddish purple flowers, there are now hybrids that offer purples, pinks, whites, greens and combinations of any of these colors. There are larger and smaller sized shrubs, too. Garden rosemary can grow to 4-feet tall and spread 6-feet wide, or you can find varieties that stay low, mounding or trailing along the ground. The creepers are ideal to use as ground covers to carpet large areas or to have spill over the edges of walls or pots. Rosemary can sprawl and become woody. It doesn’t hurt to do some regular, judicious pruning to keep the plants shapely. There are also smaller growing varieties such as the sky-blue flowered “Ken Taylor” that stays at about 2-feet tall and need little or no pruning. Low, trailing rosemary plants can be found blooming in pale lilac, white or brilliant blues. They offer a good solution for covering hills or cascading over rocks and walls. Both lavender and rosemary work well in the general garden or the herb garden. They can be used for scent at any time of year, and a dog or cat, who has been romping through the garden in rosemary or lavender, will come back into the house smelling absolutely wonderful! Even decorative rosemary plants in bright leaf or flower colors, are all fine for cooking or for making herbal teas. Creeping varieties are also edible, although each variety will have a slightly different flavor. Rosemary and lavender offer multiple uses for crafts, cleansing, aroma therapy, medicinal oils, decor and sachets. Plant lavender and rosemary in your garden for beauty, scent and

A close up of the leaves and flowers of the Spanish Lavender, (Lavendula stoeches).

Pink and blue flowering rosemary plants.

Some varieties of English Lavender can form large shrubs.

practical use. They are easy to grow and do well in areas of the chaparral or desert where many other plants would burn and shrivel. They adapt well in our chaparral landscapes, don’t need a lot of water, demand little attention and rarely are bothered

by pests. What’s not to love when it comes to adding lavender and rosemary to your garden? For more information about gardening in the Santa Clarita Valley, visit Jane Gates on YouTube at https://you tube.com/user/Janieg8s. 

M AY 23, 2021

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 1 7

SENIORLIVING A SECOND WIND

Launch into the big pool a Turtle! I’m kicking and floating.” Emboldened, he jumped off the steps and then kicked his way back. He was ast weekend my almost transformed. Finally he exclaimed, 3-year-old “This is the best pool day … ever!” grandson We all felt his bliss. It was inspiring woke up and heartwarming to watch his wonand said, “I want to der and surprise. But it may be all too have a pool day at rare that we experience such a moGram and Gramps’ ment ourselves. Although the rewards house.” That’s one of our family’s faare gratifying, taking the first scary vorite summer activities — lounging step into the unknown is unnerving. in the backyard with a cocktail, muWe are understandably apprehensive sic playing and snacks within reach. of losing control or feeling embarMy grandson, secure in his life rassed or failing. jacket, meanders around the rim of But sometimes taking a risk is a the spa, playing with toys and ennecessary step to achieving a perjoying the warm water. He won’t get sonal goal. Whether it’s beginning or into the pool when ending a relationship, the water is cold, and relocating to a new Personal growth by that I mean unresidence, embarkder 88 degrees. (I’m requires exploring ing on new health with you on that one, possibilities, protocols, or just tryHunter.) ing something new, being flexible, He stays away it requires courage from the “hole” in and persevering to face the unfamilthe middle of the spa through moments iar and embrace the where he can’t stand up. Even though we unknown. Personal of discomfort and prod him to padgrowth requires exself-doubt. Once dle across, he won’t ploring possibilities, take that leap of faith. we take the first being flexible, and We know he won’t persevering through step, we feel a sink, but his fear of moments of discomnot touching solid sense of pride and fort and self-doubt. ground is strong. Once we take the confidence. This day, we confirst step, we feel a vinced Gramps to sense of pride and heat the pool. As we floated leisureconfidence. As Hunter told me, “I was ly, Hunter’s dad picked him up and swimming so well.” But whether we slid him into the pool despite his succeed or fail initially, the process protests. Anticipating cold water, his body tightened but relaxed as his dad itself is what’s important. Through it we become more resilient, self-aware twirled him around in the warm water. Then Dad let go. There was Hunt- and joyful. It’s easy to enclose ourselves in a er, floating unencumbered, feet hanging, little arms splashing. He looked small comfy circle—the safe, warm like a turtle. rim of the spa. But it’s also cramped, The liberation of being buoyant in a limited and unchanging. Like Hunter, large expanse of water, the freedom of we need to launch into the big pool. limbs loose and dangling, unbound If it’s true that everything you ever from solid earth pressing against him, wanted is one step outside your comwas an epiphany. He was held by a fort zone, take the first step. mysterious force he didn’t understand Mary Petersen is a retired COC but delighted in its power to suspend English instructor, a 30-year SCV reshis body. He was giddy with joy. ident and two-time breast cancer sur“I’m doing it!” he repeated over vivor.  and over again. “I’m swimming like

By Mary Petersen Signal Staff Writer

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“Best of” 2021 Ballot

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M AY 23, 2021

TECHNOLOGY

Use less data, save money on your wireless plan

oes your lifestyle require an unlimited stream of data? At first glance, there’s probably nothing wrong with this assumption: After all, think about how much of your day is spent on data-dependent activities like streaming video and music, or searching the internet. But all of this can be done while using far less, and sometimes even none, of the data from your cellular plan. Try these simple tips to save money on your wireless plan. 1. Tame the video beast Watching video on your smartphone is convenient, but it’s a data glutton. A full-length Netflix movie consumes about 1GB of data per hour in standard definition video, and up to 3GB per hour in high definition. At that rate, you’ll burn through even the most robust data package in no time. Try connecting to Wi-Fi instead. It’s widely available, and lets you stream without using any cellular data at all,

often with a faster connection. While connected to Wi-Fi, you can also download videos, TV shows or movies to your phone or SD card to watch at your convenience, with no data required. In addition, when you’re streaming video on a small screen, such as a cellphone, you really don’t need high resolution. Many apps give you the ability to change video quality settings, and therefore consume less data. For Netflix, log into your account and switch to one of three settings: low (using 0.3GB per hour), medium (which uses 0.7GB per hour) or high (using up to 3GB per hour). In the YouTube app, just tap the three-dots menu and click “Quality” to lower it. 2. Manage social media and streaming music Videos have also become a standard part of the social media experience. Adjusting your settings to prevent videos from playing automatically will prevent them from eating up your

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data. The steps to change this setting can vary between applications. On most platforms, such as Facebook, you’ll go to your Account Settings and either disable the “Autoplay” feature or change it so that videos will only play automatically when you’re connected to Wi-Fi. Popular audio streaming apps offer ways to listen to your music without having to use a network connection, or even Wi-Fi. Spotify lets you download your albums and playlists right to your device. If you use Apple Music, you can add songs, albums and playlists to your library. 3. Try a smaller plan for bigger savings While an “unlimited” plan may seem like an easy answer to your data needs, they can be more enticing than practical. Read the fine print: Most actually limit your high-speed data to a certain number of gigabytes per month. Once you use up that allotment, you’ll still have unlimited ac-

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cess, but at much slower speeds. This makes it more difficult to load pages quickly, or to stream video, even though you’re paying a premium for “unlimited” access. Instead, a carrier such as Consumer Cellular offers a range of choices from a talk-only 250-minute plan to 3GB, 10GB, 15GB or unlimited data options each month. Plans are also flexible: You can switch up to the last day of a billing cycle with no extra fees, and you’re also automatically upgraded if you go over your data usage. That means you get the best rate for what you use, rather than having to carry an unlimited plan just to prevent an overage. Follow these tips and you’ll enjoy streaming movies, listening to music and more while also keeping money in your pocket for things other than a data plan. You can have it all, without needing an unlimited budget to do it. (BPT) 

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M AY 23, 2021

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 2 1

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

At-home, self-care practices to elevate your day

aily life has been pretty busy — especially in 2021. Between working from home, remote learning with kids, virtual friend meetups or just trying to stick to a daily routine, there has been little time and space for self-care to revitalize our mood and help us feel our best emotionally, physically and mentally. But, in the midst of busy days, what if there were easy and convenient ways to treat yourself and your body when a day at the salon or relaxing evening in a warm bath isn’t in the cards? When self-care falls to the bottom of your to-do list, there are a handful of easy practices you can try throughout the day to keep yourself in balance.

Power up your morning routine Turn yourself into a morning person with a quick dose of calm and relaxation. Set your alarm 15 to 20 minutes earlier to decompress before starting the day — listen to your

favorite music, stretch, give yourself a face massage with your favorite serum — whatever helps to kick off your a.m. routine with peace and positivity. To give your morning an aromatic boost, energize your bathroom routine with fresh natural scents - such as rosemary, eucalyptus, peppermint and anything in citrus that can be dropped into a small portable diffuser to invigorate the senses and relax the body. Stay cool and fresh post-workout With many of us spending more time at home, being able to squeeze in a quick workout can help reduce stress and anxiety. When you’re working up a sweat, you’ll want to have a few items handy to keep you feeling cool and fresh. Keep a jade roller in the fridge, and after your sweat session, simply apply to the face to soothe away redness and make your complexion glow.

the screen, it can leave you feeling achy and irritated. Be sure to sneak in some much-needed self-care during a long day. When you’re feeling groggy, get up from your chair and do some gentle yoga stretches to get the blood flowing and relieve tension. Finally, a quick session of “daylight therapy” is good for a serotonin boost and a pop of alertness. Seek out a sunny nook to sip your matcha tea or head outside for a brisk walk around the block.

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time self-care a priority. Put away the screens and cultivate a peaceful state of mind. A brief meditation session lowers the heart rate and stress level, so you can turn in with a blissful state of calm. If you’re a beginner to meditation, start by setting a timer for five minutes and just use the time to do nothing but focus the mind on your breath. Breathe in, hold for a beat, then release. Keep a dream journal at your bedside table, so you can be sure you’re getting adequate deep REM sleep, which is needed to optimize your mood, learning and memory. Whether you opt for a quick refresh post workout to get you ready to take on the day or slip on a soothing face mask post virtual meeting, these are just a few ways you can sneak in some much-needed self-care during a long day. Learn more about additional offerings from Summer’s Eve that leave you feeling fresh and confident on summerseve.com. (BPT) 

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M AY 23, 2021

PETS

Make nutrition a priority for your family pet

s a dog or cat parent, you are responsible for your pet’s well-being and making good decisions about what’s best for him or her. Providing your cherished companion with a high-quality, nutritionally balanced diet is one of the most important things you can do to ensure your pet lives a happy and healthy life. A balanced pet food recipe formulated with high-quality ingredients provides your pet with the optimal mix of the proteins, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins and minerals he or she needs to thrive. Look for recipes that are minimally processed; made with fresh meats, poultry and fish; and contain no artificial preservatives, flavors or colors. While the quality of ingredients is important, it’s also crucial to choose a recipe that is specific to your pet’s life stage and breed size. This helps ensure it contains the right balance of nutrients to meet your pet’s specific

needs, including hip and joint support and weight management as he or she gets older. Puppy and kitten recipes are specially formulated with higher levels of protein and essential fats to help support the needs of growing pets. Conversely, adult and senior pets may benefit from diets that are lower

in calories and fats to help maintain a healthy weight as their metabolisms and activity levels slow. Large breed dogs may also benefit from ingredients in their diets like glucosamine, chondroitin and greenlipped mussels to support healthy hips and joints as they age. Smaller kibble and breath freshening ingredi-

ents like parsley and peppermint are often well-suited for small breed dogs. By choosing carefully balanced pet foods made with premium ingredients, you can take nutrition to another level for your pet. One example is Now Fresh recipes for dogs and cats. Each kibble recipe is made using fresh, de-boned muscle meat and no by-product or meat meals. The recipes also feature more than 20 nutrient-rich superfood ingredients. When selecting the right food for your pet, look for a statement on the packaging that confirms it has been formulated to meet the nutritional levels established by the Association of American Feed Control Officials. An option like Now Fresh also clearly indicates on the package which life stage and breed size the recipe has been formulated for. Learn more about pet nutrition at NowFresh.com. (Family Features) 

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M AY 16, 2021

K I D S & FA M I LY

Donna’s Day: Creative Family Fun

Give jars in bloom to thank a teacher By Donna Erickson Signal Contributing Writer

s the school year winds down, it’s time to show appreciation to a special teacher. Here’s a springy idea: Arrange a casual bouquet of flowers with offshoots of your child’s creativity. First, choose some flowers and greens, such as hosta leaves and herbs for fragrance from your garden, or purchase a bouquet at your market. Let your child trim the stems, loosely arrange the blooms and greens in his hand, and then head for the recycle bin. The perfect “vase” for the blooms just may be lurking between a milk carton and yesterday’s newspaper. I’m thinking pint-size pasta-sauce jars, but any glass pickle, mayonnaise or fruit jar makes a casual and charming “jar in bloom.” Simply wash with

soapy water, remove the label, tie twine around the rim, and set the bouquet inside. Add some water and a card, and it’s ready to give. It’s also fun for kids to decorate and personalize the jars before adding the flowers. Here are some handmade arty ideas using nontoxic paint pens, ribbon, wire, beads or anything that catches your child’s attention in your craft box. Compose a jingle or rhyme about the teacher receiving the bouquet and write it on the jar with paint pens. Tie ribbon around the rim and thread a few small beads near the ends of the ribbon to dangle on the jar. Use acrylic paints to paint designs or images of the teachers’ favorite things. Simply write a thank-you greeting directly on the jar with paint pens, and then finish it off with copper wire twisted around the neck of the bottle several times. Arrange a curly willow

branch and two or three flowers in the modern vase. Extra idea Painted and decorated jars make attractive containers for displaying kids’ summer camp and vacation nature finds. Write the place

and date directly on the jar with paint pens and fill with pretty rocks from a lake, mini pinecones from a woodland walk in Oregon or sand from a beach. 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

M AY 23, 2021

CROSSWORD TIME

MAY 23, 2021

Opinion

S U N D AY S I G N A L · 2 5

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

Science vs. Anecdote When someone on the freedom side says something scientific like, “Your chances of dying from COVID-19 if you are under 70 are very, very low,” someone to their fearful left often responds with an anecdote of how they know somebody, or know somebody who knows somebody, who died of COVID-19 under the age of 70. At that point, two questions emerge...which they never answer: No. 1: Do we stay locked down and masked up until nobody has an anecdote about someone dying of COVID-19? No. 2: Are we following “science” or anecdotes? Since the left claims the mantle of science, then why all the anecdotes? Rob Kerchner Valencia

A Tip on Masks The implementation of new Centers for Disease Control mask guidelines is now in the hands of L.A. County Public Health Director Barbara Ferrer. She has confirmed that the department will be working closely with the state to find ways to safely implement the CDC’s new guidelines. As a responsible citizen I take great comfort in knowing that untold numbers of county and state health officials will be working night and day on this project. In order to prevent exhaustion and employee burnout, perhaps I can share the results of my personal observation and analysis of this problem. For fully vaccinated people to come into line with current CDC guidelines and President Joe Biden’s orders, it will be necessary to gently reach up and, just below each ear, locate the thin elastic strap holding the mask in place. Grasp the elastic and gently pull down and away from the side of the face until the straps clear the ears, allowing the mask to be removed. If you are not one of the 56% of people in the valley who are vaccinated, you should continue to wear your mask as before, or you can easily become vaccinated free of charge. Thomas Cadman Canyon Country Submit a Letter to the Editor

Include name, address & phone; Anonymous letters aren’t printed; email: letters@signalscv.com. Mail to: Letters, The Signal, 26330 Diamond Place, Ste. 100, Santa Clarita, CA 91350.

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

Family Matters, and Matters Most By David Hegg

ecently, my wife and I traveled to northern Idaho to visit our daughter and son-in-law. We had the best time eating in great little cafes, gazing at pristine snow-capped mountains, and just generally being together talking, remembering and laughing. So many of our discussions reminisced about years gone by and the special events and happy providences that make up the Hegg family lore. Turns out family matters, and family matters more than almost everything else in life. Why? Why don’t humans follow most of the animal world and kick their youngins out of the nest, lair, den, or burrow after a year or two? The answer is both clear and complex, and worth remembering. Both history and biology teach us humans are made for relationship. Further, we are made for a community relationship. While there are exceptions due to some sort of relationship failure, human babies are born into a group of at least two people, and most often into a group even larger. Dad, Mom and siblings create the first community, and it is in this relational community that we begin to learn how to do life. It is in the family that we learn the essential disciplines that enable success in the bigger and tougher community called society. Here are just a few of the more important ones. Perhaps the most important discipline is learning how to live under authority. Think about it. All of life is lived under some sort of authority. First, there is the authority of natural law. Cut yourself and you bleed. Fall down the stairs and you hurt. Act in anger and you’ll learn what regret is all about. Second, there is human authority. It begins in the family and it never ends. Sure, we think when we leave home, we’ll be our own boss. But no matter how successful you become, you’ll always be under some regulations, laws, statutes, and societal traditions and standards. That’s why it is essential to learn how to live under authority, and it starts in the family. It is in the family that we learn the value of hard work. Doing chores, picking up your socks, closing cupboards, setting the table, taking out the trash, and cleaning up after the puppy. When those in authority hold us responsible to do the right things the right way for the right reasons, it shapes us to do well in a world where hard work is still demanded if we are to succeed. Also in the family we learn that decisions and words and actions have consequences. Throw a

tantrum and get confined to your room. Break a rule and lose a privilege. Be a grump and grouch and lose friends. Tell the truth, clean up a mess, help someone else and be rewarded with praise, gratitude and a genuine feeling that you made something good happen. Finally, my short list ends with what may be the most important thing we learn through the family experience. We learn that we’re not the center of the universe, and the world around us does not exist for our pleasure and happiness. In the family we learn that everyone makes mistakes, has off days, and may not really care how we’re feeling at any particular moment. And that simply prepares us for life in a world where everyone around us won’t be making us the focus of their attention. The family is the laboratory in which new humans learn how to do life. At least that’s how it is supposed to be. But, as I look around, it is clear too many of the laboratories are failing to do their jobs. They’re turning out humans who are self-centered, thin-skinned, mouthy, arrogant, easily angered and almost completely useless when it comes to getting things done, working through adversity, caring for others and generally contributing positively to the society around them. And, to complicate the matters even more, these products of failing laboratories are opening their own laboratories and … well, you get the picture. I still think there is hope for us. But it has to start in the family. It has to start with parents who decide to get over themselves, create loving but disciplined households, and coach their kids to tell the truth, work hard, appreciate beauty and extend compassion to those in need. Family matters, and I can speak from experience. I grew up in a great family, and by the grace of God, my wife and I have formed a great family where love, discipline and hard work have fostered joy, purpose and more than our share of fun and beautiful memories. So, next time you start thinking about what makes a country great, remember that the laboratory for growing great people is the family. The government may want our kids, to teach and train them, but the fact is God gave them to us first. Let’s be up to the challenge of making our families matter. Our kids deserve it, and our nation depends on it. Local resident David Hegg is senior pastor of Grace Baptist Church. “Ethically Speaking” appears Sundays. 

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