Sunday Signal May 24, 2020 by Signal

Honoring their Sacrifice

MAY 24, 2020

Your News, Entertainment & Lifestyle Source

WHEN WILL FILMING COME BACK TO SCV?

HOW KIDS CAN STAY FIT & SAVE LIVES

PUTTING A FOCUS ON YOUR FINANCES

M AY 24, 2020

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 3

TABLE OF CONTENTS

NEWS FEATURES 4 Honoring Memorial Day while in quarantine 5 When the cameras can start rolling again 6 Baseball coach, new dad appreciates ‘Mr. Mom’ role 7 Beauty tips for while the salons are still closed FROM THE CITY MANAGER 8 Santa Clarita class of 2020: stronger than ever TECHNOLOGY 9 Kim shares a few freebies you can find online KIDS & FAMILY 10 Kids can save lives by getting active at home Did You Know? Volunteerism builds strong communities Junior Whirl 11 Donna’s Day: Stuffed New Potatoes Simple, fun crafts for kids MEMORIAL DAY 12 Memorial Day traces back to the Civil War HEALTH 13 Top tips to help you get ready to run this season Tips for Global Running Day HOME 14 Remodel your way to a bigger ROI GARDENING 15 Finding the right mower AUTOMOTIVE 16 Maintenance tips for a more reliable ride What to do if the car won’t start FOOD 17 Up the Taste of Barbecue FINANCE 18 Focusing on your financial health OPINION PUZZLES

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4 · S U N D AYS I G N A L

M AY 24, 2020

N E W S F E AT U R E

Celebrating and honoring Memorial Day By Emily Alvarenga Signal Staff Writer

s the weeks turn into months with the stay-athome quarantine restrictions, weekends seemingly have become just a blur of days, for some. With Memorial Day weekend upon us, for example, typical behavior includes celebrating the unofficial start of summer, having cookouts with family or friends, taking trips or honoring veterans. Though many restrictions remain in place and we’re somewhat limited as to ways we can celebrate, there are still some ways to make this holiday weekend different than last weekend, or the weekend before that.

It’s still barbecue time

While large gatherings are still not allowed for a cookout, that doesn’t mean you can’t make a feast for you and your quarantine crew. You can still enjoy the art of grilling and the taste of the food, though you may be a few guests short. So, marinate that meat and get to cooking. It’s an activity your immediate family will still certainly appreciate. Canyon Country resident Chad Zimmmerman’s family has had a Memorial Day cookout since he can remember, which is why he says he

won’t let quarantine get in the way. “Our Memorial Day celebration usually consists of food, cornhole and more food,” Zimmerman said, as he shopped for supplies at his local grocery store. “My dad usually brings over his cornhole game, and because he can’t come this year, I’m taking it as a sign I should build my own set this year.” The Zimmermans also plan on video chatting with their extended family to host their annual cornhole tournament, making the most of their weekend from afar.

Bring the vacation to your living room

If cooking isn’t your thing, instead, order some food from your favorite restaurant or even bring home some of those fruity drinks you’ve been missing. Several SCV restaurants are offering meal deals that include their signature margaritas and cocktails, such as La Cocina, Alamo Restaurant or The Backyard Grub N’ Brews for those who prefer beer. Though it may not be the beach getaway you were hoping for, it will still taste pretty great.

Tune into a virtual Memorial Day ceremony

Every year, Eternal Valley Memorial Park and Mortuary typically hosts its

Jim Lombardi barbecues tri tip and sausages during a grilling competition for nonprofits. Just because you can’t host a large gathering in person, doesn’t mean you can’t crowd the grill and host a virtual celebration. PHOTO BY DAN WATSON / THE SIGNAL

While it was tough for many to travel to any national landmarks this Memorial Day — a day set aside to honor those who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to the United States — there are a number of ways to recognize the holiday, virtually or with your immediate family. SIGNAL FILE PHOTO

traditional Memorial Day ceremony, which due to “Safer at Home” orders has been canceled. Even so, the Santa Clarita Valley’s Memorial Day Committee has decided to find a way to keep the celebration alive with a virtual event. While the public will not be invited to attend, organizers will honor those who have fallen in a small ceremony that the public will be able to tune into virtually later that day. Newly elected Congressman Mike Garcia, R-Santa Clarita is expected to speak during the ceremony, while Trinity Classical Academy students are set to read the names of the veterans on Eternal Valley’s memorial wall. The Memorial Day Ceremony is scheduled to air 6 p.m. on Monday. The ceremony can be seen on scvnews.com or on SCVTV’s local television channel via Spectrum Cable’s Channel 20 and AT&T’s Channel 99.

Honor the day with a virtual tour

While you may not be able to visit some of the national landmarks, you can still recogonize the importance of the day. Celebrate the 100th anniversary of the Memorial Amphitheater at Arlington National Cemetery with a virtual tour, featuring original pho-

tographs of the amphiteater’s construction, with a narration of how it has evolved and how Americans have remembered military service and sacrifice over the past century. Or, take a virtual tour of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial on the National Mall in Washington, D.C. to learn more about the wall and each way the memorial honors those who have fallen.

Run a virtual race

Memorial Day is also traditionally a day to don your red, white and blue and participate in a walk or run. Though many planned races have been canceled this year, you can still participate in the tradition on your own. “My family is big on 5Ks, so we were bummed we couldn’t participate this year,” Castaic resident Sharon Duncan said. “But, we decided to just run one on our own through one of our favorite trails. Thankfully those are open now.” A number of organizations are also hosting virtual runs on the holiday set to benefit charities or veteran programs, where all you have to do is sign up and run your own course to participate.

M AY 24, 2020

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 5

When the cameras can start rolling again

N E W S F E AT U R E

By Perry Smith Sunday Signal Editor

t was less than six months ago, but it seems like much, much longer. The January issue of the Santa Clarita Valley Business Journal hosted a roundtable discussion with a few of the leaders in the SCV filming industry. One of the topics was another record-breaking year in terms of filming revenue for the city of Santa Clarita, which has prided itself on being a home to world-class productions decades before the famed “Thirty Mile Zone,” or TMZ as it’s now commonly referred to, was created. (The TMZ refers to the area stretching about 30 miles out from the intersection of West Beverly and North La Cienega boulevards, and Santa Clarita is included in this territory.) The following month, the Oscars celebrated a handful of SCV productions that were nominated, including “Once Upon a Time in Hollywood” and “Ad Astra,” which were both filmed locally. And the following month, the filming industry, like countless others, came to a grinding halt. “People are trying to come up with plans for filming,” said Stuart Waldman, president of the Valley Industry and Commerce Association, who’s also hosted several productions at his home. “When you have these large sets with 100-plus people at any given time, ‘How do you still function?’” he said, citing the issue all of the big-budget production managers are dealing with at the moment.

Changes coming

Gov. Gavin Newsom is expected Monday to announce new, long-anticipated guidelines for how safe filming can resume, although as of this past week, there’s been no date given for when it could reopen. The impacts so far have been numerous, to people’s livelihood, to fresh content and to future productions, and that’s not expected to stop any time soon. “There haven’t been any specific timelines, yet,” said FilmLA President Paul Audley, who also noted that as an agency contracting with the city

Actors from “Reno 911” mill about the set in between scenes during a February shoot outside the Santa Clarita Valley Sheriff’s Station, down the street from City Hall. Less than six weeks later, the entire industry was shut down due to restrictions from the L.A. County Department of Public Health. The industry is now working to see how the industry could safely return. SIGNAL PHOTO

and county of Los Angeles to permit, promote and retain filming, the agency would follow its cue from the Public Health Department. He also acknowledged lots of conversations from the guilds and unions that are discussing their own guidelines, as well, during the hiatus. “Everybody is looking at everyone else in the world in trying to figure out what’s safe and what’s best for reopening the industry,” Audley said.

Looking for examples

In terms of emerging industry standards for filming, the British Broadcasting Company released guidelines this past Monday for how filming could safely resume for the broadcaster, which operates through a royal charter in the United Kingdom from tax revenues. The 15-page document covers everything from how information about fighting COVID-19 should be displayed to how to introduce and identify someone who might be at “high risk,” for the person’s protection to encouragement on limiting the number of people involved in a production. “Key considerations should be: minimize workers needed on site to complete the work activity; maximize technology to enable roles and activities to be done from home and

remotely wherever possible; segregate people within the working area to minimize close contact and maintain social distancing as far as possible,” according to the initial BBC guidelines. The guidelines can be found at bit.ly/FilmingGuidelines. And while one might expect the background scenes and support staff to notice a difference in operations, BBC officials are also asking for changes in the on-screen production, also, in the new guidelines. “Changes to script and scenes to take into account social distancing,” according to the guidelines, which also call for a greater use of “‘green screens’ to ‘down the line’ to support minimizing numbers on production.” The release also calls for boom or fixed mics to avoid contact and maintain a 6-foot distance, as well as call for performers to, when possible, do their own makeup, in addition to limiting the application of any on-set touch-ups of makeup. The document even mentions smaller details like not to “directly hand over outfits from wardrobe to actors/presenters.”

And in Santa Clarita …

Evan Thomason, who took part in the now seemingly long-ago Business Journal roundtable as economic development associate for Santa Clarita, who oversees the city’s Film

Office, has been leading a crew that was working from home for about two months of the county’s “Safer at Home” order. Last year, the city brought in an estimated $36 million in revenue to city coffers through impacts associated with filming, which is one of the reasons his team is looking forward to the safe return of the industry. If the initial discussions bear out, what we could see on our streaming devices the same time next year could be very different indeed, based on what Thomason heard during a more recent roundtable call with agencies similar to his own from around the world. In addition to the United Kingdom, China and Australia appear to be slightly ahead on the return to filming timeline. “They’re not writing scenes where people have to be intimate or next to each other … They’re using camera tricks to cheat on proximity,” Thomason said, sharing a few of the suggestions that came from the international call. “We’re waiting to see like everyone else,” Thomason said. “So when L.A. County allows that particular (permit) use again, we are fully prepared to start issuing permits.”

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M AY 24, 2020

N E W S F E AT U R E

Baseball coach, new dad appreciates ‘Mr. Mom’ role By Haley Sawyer For The Signal

he homepage of the West Ranch High School baseball website has a steady flow of updates for the team, ranging from parents’ announcements of Zoom meetings to links for summer practice schedules. Tucked into every update is a note about the much-awaited “baby boy Lindgreen.” Ryan Lindgreen, an assistant coach for the Wildcats, became a father to a boy named Van. “The Lindgreen Family welcomed Van to the world tonight,” read the Cats’ website on May 2. “Mom and baby are healthy and doing great. Van’s dad is exhausted.” Van’s dad was exhausted indeed. Although his schedule is usually busy with coaching varsity baseball and teaching English at West Ranch, it took a drastic turn when spring sports were canceled due to coronavirus concerns. He went home to his family and spent an unprecedented amount of time with them. He helped his wife, Gretchen, and wrangled their 4-yearold daughter, Ellie, and 2-year-old daughter, Bridget, on a regular basis. “Bittersweet has to be the perfect word for it,” Lindgreen said. “The cancellation of the season, losing out on spending the last 20-some games with our seniors, was heartbreaking, but I got an opportunity to do so much of this. I’ve been Mr. Mom. I do the dishes, I cook and I clean and I’m killin’ it over here.” Lindgreen has maintained his baseball life, too. He keeps in touch with

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Ryan Lindgreen, a teacher and assistant coach for the Wildcats’ baseball team, holds his son Van, who was born earlier this month. COURTESY PHOTO

the players over text message and social media, while head coach Casey Burrill holds Zoom meetings with the team by grade level and regularly updates the West Ranch baseball website. “It’s been very surreal that that’s the only way we can spend time with them when we spend three, four hours a day with them for months and months and years and years,” Lindgreen said. In the midst of uncertain times, Van has become the center of attention for the West Ranch baseball community and a beacon of positivity. Parents and friends of the program have flooded Lindgreen with congratulatory text messages. Lindgreen is grateful that baseball is still in his life, but his primary focus has shifted for the time being. “It kind of took a pandemic for me to really understand how much a time commitment being a part of the baseball program is,” he said. “Now that we’ve been home every single day for six weeks now, I really appreciate the support system I have at home, and how much the parents and our players put into chasing their dream of being a baseball player and I’m so thankful that I get to be a part of it.” While it remains unknown as to

when baseball will officially start again, Lindgreen is very aware of what his schedule will be until he starts coaching and teaching again. “My girls, there’s never a dull moment with them,” he said. “I have to do a lot of ballerina dancing, I have to dress up like ‘Frozen’ and sing, and I get to do a lot of those types of activities around the house. It’s fun. It’s a completely different type of energy than what I would consider my daily life to be.”

Appreciating coaches, too

While Ryan Lindgreen has been gaining an appreciation for the support system in the home, parents across the country have no doubt been appreciating the work of their children’s coaches, trainers and mentors, as well. Every year, millions of student-athletes across the globe participate in organized sports, which can be a huge investment for parents in a number of ways. One way to support, preserve and manage that relationship is to get to know your child’s coach, trainer or instructor. A strong parent-coach relationship can help kids get the most out of their participation in organized sports. This is especially important in the coming months and years ahead, as

so much uncertainty still remains about the future of youth sports. In fact, according to a National Association of Youth Sports survey of parents who have children ages 8 to 18, nearly half have concerns their young athlete could get sick if they return to action when coronavirus restrictions are lifted. A little less than half (46%) also said they were worried about getting sick themselves. Family engagement also can be beneficial in regard to extracurricular activities. Kids may be more excited about extracurricular activities if their parents are involved. In addition, such activities provide opportunities for parents and their children to strengthen their bonds through shared experiences. There are a few things parents can do to build a better relationship with your child’s coach or instructor. Recognize their commitment Many scholastic coaches are unpaid volunteers, and those who are paid typically are not coaching for the money but rather to help youngsters. Parents can periodically acknowledge that commitment and express their gratitude to coaches, even when discussing decisions you might not like. Establish dialogue Coaches are busy at the beginning of the season, but parents can still spend a few minutes introducing themselves to coaches and offering any assistance they can provide. Express your gratitude to coaches at this time, as well. Keep communication After initial introductions, coaches may only hear from parents when moms and dads disagree with a decision a coach has made. But lines of communication should be kept open throughout the season. Let coaches coach Parents want the best for their children, and many may feel compelled to instruct young athletes during games. But such instructions can distract youngsters, as well as accomplish the opposite intention. A “Return to Play” set of guidelines has also been released by the U.S. Specialty Sports Association, and can be viewed at usssa.com/docs/2020/ Covid19-ReturnToPlay.pdf.

M AY 24, 2020

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 7

N E W S F E AT U R E

Beauty tips for while the salons are still closed By Caleb Lunetta Signal Staff Writer

ur hairdressers, salons and beauty parlors have been out of commission for weeks due to COVID-19, leaving many without an idea of how to keep up with their normal beauty regimens. In fact, the global half-trillion-dollar beauty industry is expected to take a 20% to 30% hit in revenue this year, according to a study done by the McKinsey Global Institute, a U.S.-based market research organization. This is due largely to cosmetic makeup and beauty products taking a dip in sales because of the quarantine. However, a number of Santa Clarita Valley beauticians say they’ve been speaking with their clients almost as much as they would during normal circumstances and giving them the do’s and don’t’s of at-home beauty treatments. Josh Rivas, owner of Tribute Beauty Lounge in Newhall, said that he and his colleagues and clients have had to adapt to the way things in a very dramatic fashion. “I think one of the things people should do is reach out to their stylist directly,” said Rivas. However, for those without a stylist or between stylists, here is what the professionals recommend for your stay-at-home.

Hair

Rivas said a number of stylists are creating kits for their clients in order to give them some semblance of normalcy when it comes to their hair.

“I’ll mix someone’s formula and drop it off on their doorstep and they apply it themselves,” said Rivas. “That falls within the quarantine standards. I have everybody’s formula and their color, so I can put it together and they can do it themselves when I give them instructions.” Rivas said it’s been eight weeks since his shop was last open, and that these kits have been assisting his clients throughout. His beauty lounge, along with all others throughout Los Angeles County, are the last of the businesses to reopen during phase three of the recovery. However, if you can’t afford your formula right now, the first beauty tip Rivas gave is one he’d standby even when there wasn’t a pandemic: don’t cut your own hair. “I wouldn’t recommend anybody trying to cut their own hair, because anybody that I’ve heard that has done, it’s come out way worse than if they would have just left it long,” said Rivas. “My assistants work with me for a year before they touch scissors, and their first haircut, it takes like four hours to get them through it,” Rivas added. “Don’t cut your own hair.” Rivas said if your stylist isn’t delivering color, that he would recommend using temporary coloring that can be purchased over the counter. “If you do it wrong or too much or not enough, then you could just wash it out,” said Rivas. “It’s going to really suck with all these messed up hair colors are doing themselves (when he’s allowed to reopen) because color correction is like an all day thing.” Rivas also warned against trying to do more complicated services on your own, such as Brazilian blowouts, because if done incorrectly, the fallout could be literal.

Makeup

If there’s a loved one whom you trust with a pair of clippers, there are kits and online tutorials available. PHOTOS BY DAN WATSON / THE SIGNAL

Makeup, for a lot of women, is an art form that they’ve perfected through years of practice. And even when just bumping around the house in quarantine, women continue to practice their craft, said Adavel Fernandez, a local independent makeup artist. “You can use a bronzer for different things, you can use it as a blush, a shadow and a bronzer, a little mascara and lip gloss, or even lipstick,” said Fernandez, when asked what she personally does sometimes even when she’s not planning on leaving the house. “That’s pretty much what I do for myself or for my clients when it’s a really light look.” Since the onset of the stay-at-home order in March, thousands of couples throughout the country had to make the decision to either reschedule or alter their wedding plans. And by altering it has largely been only the closest nuclear family members staying socially distanced apart to watch the small, but intimate ceremony between a bride and groom. For these kinds of events, or when small events

Whether you’re seeking treatments for your hair or professional skin tips, reaching out to your local salon or finding him or her on social media might help until the salons are open again.

gradually return and are permissible, putting on a little bit more makeup appropriate for the occasion is possible when no professional is available. “Definitely lashes,” said Fernandez, adding that there are a number of tutorials on YouTube where people explain and make putting on your own lashes seem easy. “Just because they’re gonna have to remember that day’s photographs … and the lashes always make the eyes look better in the photographs.”

Skin

And, according to Fernandez, at least in terms of skin care, the quarantine may have been a blessing in this specific area. “If you’re not going anywhere, let your skin breathe,” said Fernandez. “I think (that’s) the best for hair and skin, honestly, because it’s giving your skin a break from just the daily (makeup use).” Fernandez said for women who put on makeup on a daily basis, even if it’s just a natural look, they do so in order to cover blemishes, freckles or dark circles. “We always try to do, ‘Less is more,’” said Fernandez. “But honestly, if you’re home, just skip the whole thing, give your lashes a break and give your skin a break.” Fernandez added that people should continue to hydrate their skin and use sunscreen while outside to protect their skin.

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M AY 24, 2020

F R O M T H E M AY O R

Santa Clarita class of 2020: stronger than ever By Mayor Cameron Smyth

Hats off to the Class of 2020! You did it!

s the proud parent of three kids, I know the anticipation and excitement of graduation ceremonies. I’m looking forward to the day when my children will be lining up to receive their high school and college diplomas as crowds of friends and family cheer them on. Sadly, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, high school and university graduates have traded in their caps and gowns for masks and gloves, as graduation ceremonies have been postponed or cancelled all together. As a result, students are missing the iconic graduation “walk” alongside their peers, while families must celebrate within the walls of their own homes. Even though we as a community have all been affected during this tumultuous time, we stand united. In times of crisis, our community is filled with resilient individuals determined to overcome obstacles and support their neighbors. In the same way our first responders have shown dedication and commitment during the COVID-19 pandemic, our students in Santa Clarita have shown similar fortitude in completing their studies. There is much to celebrate as we highlight the accomplishments of students who were forced to adjust their educational workflows from in-person classes to online distance learning. We are fortunate to live in an era where technology is ubiquitous, making it easier than ever to access educational resources online. We are thankful for local school

districts, including William S. Hart, Saugus, Newhall, Sulphur Springs and Castaic, for rising to the occasion collaborating to find efficient ways to ensure the uninterrupted flow of learning. As we move into the final weeks of the school year, I encourage all of you to stay positive and be proud of all you have accomplished. Never has a senior class in our community faced such adversity during their graduating year. I encourage you all to embrace the drive and fight you have shown as you launch into the next chapter of your lives. Although there are many things we can’t currently do — your generation is the most prepared in history to tap into online opportunities. Use the unlimited resources online to connect with friends, continue to learn, create and invent. Next Friday, you even have the opportunity to attend prom virtually. The Signal newspaper is hosting a virtual prom on Friday, May 29, complete with a live DJ, celebrity guests and even cash prizes. Although your senior year did not turn out as planned, you should still take great pride in the success you have achieved. My fellow councilmembers and I are proud of your outstanding accomplishments and look forward to the future contributions that our graduates will make to enrich the lives of those around them and in the great City of Santa Clarita. Mayor Cameron Smyth is a member of the Santa Clarita City Council and can be reached at csmyth@ santa-clarita.com. The views expressed in his column are those of the City and do not necessarily reflect those of The Signal.

M AY 24, 2020

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 9

TECHNOLOGY

Kim shares a few freebies you can find online By Kim Komando Signal Contributing Writer

f you know where to look, there’s a number of free, useful things you can find online. 1. Free online storage in the cloud Cloud storage is a great way to access and share your computer’s media library remotely. If you save documents, photos, and videos in the cloud, you’ll be able to reach them at work, on your laptop while traveling, or on your phone or tablet wherever you are located. If you’re already a Google user, Google Drive is a versatile option. This free cloud storage system gives you 5 gigabytes (GB) of free online storage, and you can buy more storage as needed. iCloud is the online storage pro-

gram available to Apple users. This service makes it easy to transfer and view files across your iPhones, iPads and iMacs. You get an initial 5GB free and can purchase more space if and when you need it. If you are an Amazon Prime member, you get 5GB of Amazon Cloud Drive space for free and unlimited photo storage at no additional cost. Dropbox is another reliable cloud storage site. It gives you 2GB of space for free when you sign up, and you can earn more storage when you recommend others to sign up for a Dropbox account. 2. Free office software Microsoft Office remains the most popular productivity software around. It’s not free, of course, and many people waffle on whether to buy it. Fortunately, you can get pretty much the same power and performance without the hefty price tag. First, there’s the free and opensource office suite LibreOffice. This

suite offers six programs that will feel instantly familiar if you’ve ever used Office. Writer, Calc and Impress are equivalent to Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint. Even better, it can open and edit the documents you made in Office and can save new files in Office formats. Another great free online option is Google Docs. Google Docs is more than just a word processor; it’s an entire suite of productivity programs that have become steadily more powerful over years of development. Next time you need to start a spreadsheet, build a presentation, create a form, or make a digital drawing, try Google Docs, Sheets, Slides or others and see if it’s something you can use. 3. Free photo editing software If you know a professional photographer or a serious hobbyist, they’re using Photoshop. For everyone else, GIMP is a compelling, top-quality, free alternative to Photoshop. GIMP stands for GNU Image Ma-

nipulation Program. It has a lot of the same capabilities as Photoshop. There are filters, brush tools, gradients, smudging, cropping and erasing tools. You can add colors with a pencil, a paintbrush, or fill in whole areas of your image. If you’re comfortable exploring new software programs, plunge into GIMP. Open a photograph or image that you want to manipulate. GIMP is useful in that it puts almost all its tools into pop-up boxes surrounding the image. If you want to touch up an image’s shape, or angle, add text, erase parts of the image, or add on layers of texture, you’ll find all the tools right in front of you. For information on Kim Komando on today’s digital lifestyle, from smartphones and tablets to online privacy and data hacks, visit her at Komando. com.

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M AY 24, 2020

K I D S & FA M I LY

Kids can save lives by getting active at home

s millions of people across the globe social distance and self-quarantine to help prevent further spread of the novel coronavirus, kids and families can help save lives by getting active at home. With 55 million students in the United States affected by school closures, teachers, families and kids are incorporating options like UNICEF Kid Power into daily at-home schedules. A free program, the platform hosts a library of interactive dance, yoga and learning videos featuring WWE Superstars, DreamWorks characters and more. These 3-5 minute "brain breaks" help keep kids moving, provide lessons on global citizenship, encourage positive screen time, establish a sense of control and connectivity, and empower them with purpose. As kids dance, move and learn, they unlock therapeutic food packets that get sent to severely malnourished children around the world. More than 900,000 kids across the U.S. have come together to save 100,000 lives. Through the program, kids also provide meals to their local food banks,

As kids dance and move, they unlock food packets that are sent to severely malnourished children around the world. PHOTOS COURTESY UNICEF

give supplies for doctor visits and plant trees in their communities. The more active they are, the more lives they save. Families and teachers can get involved at unicefusa.org/KidPowerAt Home. Beyond this program, UNICEF USA is also providing practical guides and resources for families, including ways to keep kids safe from

online harm, adjust to online learning and a quiz that unlocks $2 in funding while outlining how COVID-19 compares to past outbreaks. Globally, the United Nations Children's Fund is providing relief and support to vulnerable communities as they combat the ongoing pandemic. To date, the organization has reached more than 40 million health care and frontline workers with hospital equip-

ment and personal protective equipment, as well as more than half a billion people with prevention, hygiene and informational messaging. As this crisis will have continuing effects on millions of people, UNICEF has appealed for $651 million to address the growing humanitarian needs and provide long-lasting response. Adults and kids can combat the impact of coronavirus, one dollar or dance move at a time. Just $3.30 can provide 100 pairs of disposable gloves to health workers. (Family Features) To help fund relief programs, visit unicefusa.org/CoronavirusRelief.

ommunity service is a great way to strengthen one’s community and build relationships with neighbors. But the benefits of volunteering go beyond building communities. According to Harvard Health Publications, people who routinely volunteer are less likely than non-volunteers to develop cardiovascular issues, including high blood pressure. Additional studies have found that individuals who volunteer have lower mortality rates than non-volunteers. But one’s motivation when volunteering is important, especially as it pertains to the effect that community service can have on individuals’ overall health, including their mortality. (MC)

M AY 24, 2020

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 1 1

Donna’s Day: Creative Family Fun

K I D S & FA M I LY

Stuffed New Potatoes: a Spanish tapas snack kitchen cabinet, and fill them with the individual toppings. The results are always colorful and appetizing.

By Donna Erickson Signal Contributing Editor

o your kids snack all day? Some parents call it “grazing.” And when kids grab a bite here or there, it’s fine, as long as their quick forays into the kitchen are healthy ones. Spanish tapas are hearty snacking heaven. They’re a specialty of Spain, enjoyed between meals, and sometimes people combine many different tapas to make a full meal. Typically, tapas may include a simple bowl of cold marinated olives, mushrooms, artichoke hearts or kid-friendly and popular stuffed potatoes. These hand-held potatoes are a unique and fun after-school snack. Just pop them in the microwave, start reciting the rhyme “one potato, two,” and in minutes they’ll be baked. You also might want to put them on your dinnertime menu once in a while. As a satisfying side, you can vary the chopped fixings with the meal and individual tastes.

2. Scrub and clean the potatoes with a little vegetable brush. It takes only a minute or two. 3. Cut each potato in half, and then trim a flat piece off each bottom so that the potato halves sit upright.

Spanish Tapas Stuffed New Potatoes

4. Place them upright on a microwave-safe plate and cover with microwave-safe wax paper, parchment paper or a microwave-safe lid. Wrap or cover to allow steam to escape. Cook on high for about four minutes, or until tender.

6 red new potatoes, each about 2 inches across 1/2 cup sour cream Chopped toppings such as hard-boiled eggs, bacon, tomatoes, radishes, cucumber, salad onions, chives and dill

5. Arrange the warm halves on a flat platter. Use a melon-ball scoop or a teaspoon to dig out a little pocket from the center of each half. (Save and refrigerate the scoopedout portion for a scrumptious Spanish omelet the next morning just add a little onion and salsa!)

1. Take a few small bowls from the

6. Now it’s fill-’er-up time for your

hungry grazers. Spoon a dollop of sour cream in each potato’s cavity. Go to the bowls of delectable toppings, and spoon or sprinkle choices over the top. Grab a napkin or small plate, and it’s ready to enjoy! Makes 12 hand-held servings. TIP To vary the look and flavor, I grab a variety bag at my local grocery store containing small red new potatoes, Yukon Gold and a purple variety. Look for fresh young potatoes at your farmer’s markets this summer, too. Donna Erickson’s award-winning series “Donna’s Day” is airing on public television nationwide. To find more of her creative family recipes and activities, visit www.donnasday.com and link to the NEW Donna’s Day Facebook fan page. Her latest book is “Donna Erickson’s Fabulous Funstuff for Families.” © 2020 Donna Erickson Distributed by King Features Synd.

Simple and fun crafts to keep kids entertained

eeping children content and occupied isn't always an easy task — especially with more and more days being spent at home. As parents and caregivers, it can also be challenging to come up with creative solutions and fun projects that differ each day. However, even if you lack crafting abilities, you can still inspire your kids and help them stretch their creative muscles with items commonly found right at home, including scissors, straws, rulers and duct tape. In an effort to keep your kids entertained, Duck Tape Brand Duct Tape offers several ideas for kids of all ages to engage in crafting fun — from teens to toddlers. And, Duck Tape keeps messes at bay since no glue, glitter or markers are needed. Flower power Bring the garden inside with Duck Tape roses — no watering required! Creating these roses will get your kids excited for the new season ahead and test their measuring and counting skills as they pull together a colorful bouquet. Plus, these flowers make great gifts!

Luck of the draw Are your kids having a day where everything you suggest sounds unappealing? Help them avoid boredom with a popsicle stick activity jar. Work together to identify fun activities and write each down on a popsicle stick. Let your kids add colorful designs to the sticks and place them in a jar. Next time your family is feeling less than inspired during playtime, bust

out the activity jar and leave it to the sticks to decide. Home-schooled fun With most children adjusting to remote learning, it’s important to provide a space where they feel inspired to learn. One great way to do this is to designate a work station where each kid can house favorite supplies and personalize it with a few decorations — just as they do at school.

Let kids create their own desk organizers with a few items you likely already have on hand, such as Duck Tape, scissors, and empty paper rolls or cereal boxes. Once all the supplies are gathered, all they need to do is wrap the paper rolls and boxes in the tape design of their choosing. Next, designate each container to hold pencils, markers and important homework. Not only will your kids take pride in their new creations, you’ll enjoy not having to search for missing papers each morning. Creative Reading Help keep reading fun by letting kids create their own custom bookmarks. This easy, DIY project is perfect for beginners, since all the crafter needs to do is cut the tape and fold it over card stock for a one-of-a-kind design. For more inspiration and craft instructions, visit DuckBrand.com. By providing a little creative inspiration, you can help your kids spark their imaginations and have them on their way to creating their next masterpiece. (Statepoint)

12 · S U N D AYS I G N A L

M AY 24, 2020

M E M O R I A L D AY

Memorial Day traces back to the Civil War

hree years after the Civil War ended, on May 5, 1868, the head of an organization of Union veterans — the Grand Army of the Republic — established Decoration Day as a time for the nation to decorate the graves of the war dead with flowers. Maj. Gen. John A. Logan declared that Decoration Day should be observed on May 30. It is believed that date was chosen because flowers would be in bloom all over the country. The first large observance was held that year at Arlington National Cemetery, across the Potomac River from Washington, D.C. The ceremonies centered around the mourningdraped veranda of the Arlington mansion, once the home of Gen. Robert E. Lee. Various Washington officials, including Gen. and Mrs. Ulysses S. Grant, presided over the ceremonies. After speeches, children from the Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Orphan Home and members of the GAR made their way through the cemetery, strewing flowers on both Union and Confederate graves, reciting prayers and singing hymns.

Local observances claim to be first

Local springtime tributes to the Civil War dead already had been held in various places. One of the first occurred in Columbus, Mississippi, April 25, 1866, when a group of women visited a cemetery to decorate the graves of Confederate soldiers who had fallen in battle at Shiloh. Nearby were the graves of Union soldiers, neglected because they were the enemy. Disturbed at the sight of the bare graves, the women placed some of their flowers on those graves, as well. Today, cities in the North and the South claim to be the birthplace of Memorial Day in 1866. Both Macon and Columbus, Georgia, claim the title, as well as Richmond, Virgina. The village of Boalsburg, Pennsylvania, claims it began there two years earlier. A stone in a Carbondale, Illinois, cemetery carries

the statement that the first Decoration Day ceremony took place there on April 29, 1866. Carbondale was the wartime home of Gen. Logan. Approximately 25 places have been named in connection with the origin of Memorial Day, many of them in the South where most of the war dead were buried.

Official birthplace declared

In 1966, Congress and President Lyndon Johnson declared Waterloo, New York, the “birthplace” of Memorial Day. There, a ceremony on May 5, 1866, honored local veterans who had fought in the Civil War. Businesses closed and residents flew flags at half-staff. Supporters of Waterloo’s claim say earlier observances in other places were either informal, not community-wide or one-time events. By the end of the 19th century, Memorial Day ceremonies were being held on May 30 throughout the nation. State legislatures passed proclamations designating the day, and the Army and Navy adopted regulations for proper observance at their facilities. It was not until after World War I, however, that the day was expanded to honor those who have died in all American wars. In 1971, Memorial Day was declared a national holiday by an act of Congress, though it is still often called Decoration Day. It was then also placed on the last Monday in May, as were some other federal holidays.

Some have confederate observances

Many Southern states also have their own days for honoring the Confederate dead. Mississippi celebrates Confederate Memorial Day on the last Monday of April, Alabama on the fourth Monday of April and Georgia on April 26. North and South Carolina observe it on May 10, Louisiana on June 3 and Tennessee calls that date Confederate Decoration Day. Texas celebrates Confederate Heroes Day January 19 and Virginia calls the last Monday in May Confederate Memorial Day. Gen. Logan’s order for his posts to decorate graves in 1868 “with the choicest flowers of springtime” urged, “We should guard their graves with sacred vigilance. … Let pleasant paths invite the coming and going of reverent visitors and fond mourners. Let no neglect, no ravages of time, testify to the present or to the coming generations that we have forgotten as a people the cost of a free and undivided republic.” The crowd attending the first Memorial Day ceremony at Arlington National Cemetery was approximately the same size as those that attend today’s observance, about 5,000 people. Then, as now, small American flags were placed on each grave — a tradition followed at many national cemeteries today. In recent years, the custom has grown in that

Flags were placed at each grave in Arlington National Cemetary on its first Memorial Day celebration. That tradition stands today and across the nation as a way to honor the fallen heroes. COURTESY PHOTOS

Decoration Day was established three years after the end of the Civil War. It was a time to decorate the graves of the war dead with flowers.

many families decorate the graves of all departed loved ones. The origins of special services to honor those who die in war can be found in antiquity. The Athenian leader Pericles offered a tribute to the fallen heroes of the Peloponnesian War more than 24 centuries ago that could be applied today to the 1.1 million Americans who have died in the nation’s wars. “Not only are they commemorated by columns and inscriptions, but there dwells also an unwritten memorial of them, graven not on stone but in the hearts of men.” To ensure the sacrifices of America ’s fallen heroes are never forgotten, in December 2000, the U.S. Congress passed and the president signed into law “The National Moment of Remembrance Act,” P.L. 106-579, creating the White House Commission on the National Moment of Remembrance. The commission’s charter is to “encourage the people of the United States to give something back to their country, which provides them so much freedom and opportunity” by encouraging and coordinating commemorations in the United States of Memorial Day and the National Moment of Remembrance. The National Moment of Remembrance encourages all Americans to pause wherever they are at 3 p.m. local time on Memorial Day for a minute of silence to remember and honor those who have died in service to the nation. As Moment of Remembrance founder Carmella LaSpada states, “It’s a way we can all help put the memorial back in Memorial Day.” Courtesy U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs.

M AY 24, 2020

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 1 3

H E A LT H

Top tips to help you get ready to run this season Top Tips for Global Running Day

une 3 marks Global Running Day. Here are a few ways to participate this year.

Warm up

A quick warm up of dynamic stretches can prime your body for the run and is an effective way to ward off sore or stiff muscles later.

Practice social distancing

While running with pals is one of the best ways to get motivated, you can practice social distancing by running solo or with just a family member. Be courteous of others on your route and keep your distance.

ou’ve made the decision to get in shape, and whether your goal is a full marathon or simply a few laps around the neighborhood, there are a few steps to consider taking before you strap on those shoes and head toward the finish line. Here are a few tips to help get you ready for the big race.

Seek quality sneakers

Feet come in a variety of widths and sizes, so visit a specialty running store to find perfect-fitting sneakers. These may come with a hefty price tag, but there are no shortcuts for comfort and support while running long distances.

Make a schedule

Try to aim for at least 10 hours of training per week, including three days where you run and two or three days of other physical activity such as cycling or strength training. To avoid exhaustion, be sure to include at least 1-2 “rest” days per week.

Stick with water

Avoid sports drinks that are loaded with preservatives and sugars. You can’t go wrong with the hydrating

PHOTO COURTESY GETTY IMAGES

power of water. As a rule, try to consume at least 6-8 ounces of water for every 20 minutes you run. Proper hydration after the run is also vital.

Go online

Many websites have training guides for various skill levels or different types of races. If you have a smartphone, look for apps that can take you through day-by-day workouts to get you marathon-ready.

Nutrition

Filling your body with the proper amount of fuel can help ensure finish-line success. Load up on quality carbohydrates, such as beans, peas, whole-wheat pastas, whole-grain cereals, apples, brown rice and root vegetables. Protein also plays an important role in a runner’s nutrition, so fill up on lean meats, fish, eggs, low-fat dairy, peanut butter and soy protein sources, as well. By following these general rules, you’ll be able to focus on achieving your goal and enjoy the thrill of finishing the race. Find more tips for a healthier lifestyle at eLivingToday. com. (Family Features)

Cool down

While dynamic stretches are best for before the workout, afterward, practice yoga or a deep stretching routine.

Light the way

Running at night? Wear reflective attire or other illuminating gear to make yourself visible to bikers and cars.

Stay connected

Just because you’re socially distancing doesn’t mean you need to be unsocial. Follow the conversation at #GlobalRunningDay on social media and connect with runners around the world. (MC)

14 · S U N D AYS I G N A L

M AY 24, 2020

HOME

Remodel your way to a bigger return on investment

omeowners and renters remodel, redesign and restructure their homes for a variety of reasons. Even a newly constructed dream home needs improvements over time. Common renovation projects include upgrading worn-out surfaces, finishes and materials, or adding features and improving livability. Other homeowners invest in remodeling simply because they’re ready for a change. However, many find the idea of taking on a remodeling project too overwhelming to attempt. Thirty-five percent of U.S. homeowners would rather move to another home than remodel their current home, according to research by the National Association of Realtors. What those homeowners don’t realize is that taking on projects is often worth the investment and time. The same study showed that among those who did undertake a home improvement project, 75% had a greater desire to be in their home when the project was completed. Others reported increased enjoyment in their home and a major sense of accomplishment. Satisfaction aside, there are financial implications that may influence how you prioritize renovations in your home. Learn which interior and exterior upgrades are likely to bring the biggest return on investment with the leading in-demand projects identified by the National Association of the Remodeling Industry and the National Association of Realtors.

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Exterior upgrades

Generally speaking, improvements to your home’s structural features and exterior elements drive the greatest returns on your renovation dollars. • New roof Your home’s roof takes a real beating from the elements, and upgrading this protective feature is one of the greatest investments you can make for your home with an estimated 109% return on value. There’s a reasonable expectation for long-lasting results and you’re likely to see some improvement in your home’s energy efficiency. • Garage door Proving that curb appeal counts, a new garage door is another exterior feature that’s likely to bring a strong return. A new door may be an opportunity to create a new look for your home, but it’s also a way to improve the function of a worn-out door. • Updated siding Enhancing an architectural element like siding is another way to improve your home’s aesthetic appeal while making it easier to maintain. Be thoughtful in selecting your materials, though; fiber-cement siding brings a slightly higher return than vinyl selections.

Improvements to your home’s structural features, such as a new roof or updated siding, drive the greatest returns on your renovation dollars.

Interior Upgrades

Although many improvements inside the home tend to be based on your personal tastes and lifestyle, you can still reap the benefits of undertaking certain high-return projects. • Wood flooring Refinishing existing wood floors or installing new wood floors is likely to bring at or near a 100% return on investment. The project improves a home’s aesthetic appeal and eliminates possible signs of wear while bringing a more modern feel to the living space. • Sustainable considerations Also high on the list are projects that improve a home’s energy efficiency, such as upgrading insulation. Not only does improved quality or quantity of insulation help reduce energy bills, it’s an investment you can expect to recoup a large percentage on. Similarly, replacing the HVAC may be a necessary project if the old unit is failing to perform,

New wood flooring and sustainable improvements, such as insulation upgrades, are considerations for improvements that considered high-return projects.

but it can also improve energy efficiency and result in better functionality and livability for the home. • Livable Spaces Adding square footage always helps a home value, especially when you can convert unused, unfinished space like a basement into a comfortable, cozy living area. Another place where you can expect a big return is on a

complete kitchen remodel, which will allow you to improve function while adding modern touches and upgrading outdated and worn features. Find more advice to maximize the value of your next home improvement project at remodelingdoneright.com. (Family Features)

M AY 24, 2020

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 1 5

GARDENING

How to find the right mower for your lawn needs

hether you’re a firsttime homeowner or looking for an upgrade, deciding what lawn mower to purchase deserves careful consideration. Similar to day-to-day life, new technology over the last five years, specifically in the gas mower industry, is making it easier to maintain your lawn. If you’re in the market for a new mower, consider these tips to find the perfect tool to match your needs.

Yard size

Looking at the size of your yard is the first step in determining the best mower for your needs. Walk-behind mowers work well for yards that are 1/2 acre or less, but for yards 1-3-acres or larger, a zero-turn rider (ZTR) or riding mower may be appropriate.

Terrain

A small, flat yard may only require a walk-behind mower. If your yard is sloped or hilly, you may prefer a

self-propelled mower rather than one you have to push. A walk-behind mower with big back wheels is easier to maneuver across rough terrain. Riding mowers and ZTRs can handle varied terrain, although some handle better on slopes than others.

Engine

Engines are one of the most important factors affecting a mower’s performance, so purchasing one with a quality engine is essential. For example, Briggs & Stratton engines can be found on several brands of lawn mowers, including eight of the top 10 walk-behind brands. As a global leader in gasoline engines for outdoor power equipment, these engines power mowers ranging from small walk-behinds to large ZTRs and riding mowers.

Special features

While certain features may add to the cost of lawn mowers, many provide functions worth considering. One popular option is a mulch-

PHOTOS COURTESY BRIGGS & STRATTON

ing blade, which returns finely cut grass pieces to the lawn as a natural fertilizer. Another common choice is a bagging attachment, which is a grass-catching bag that can be affixed

to the side or back of the mower to collect grass clippings. Explore more ways to put technology to work in your yard at briggsandstratton.com. (Family Features)

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16 · S U N D AYS I G N A L

M AY 24, 2020

AUTOMOTIVE

Maintenance tips for a more reliable ride

our vehicle is a vital piece of transportation for getting you from point A to point B, making it important to keep it in good shape for when you’re ready to ride the roads. While the average American spends plenty of time behind the wheel, there can be periods of time where cars sit in the garage or on the driveway. Not only can weather impact a vehicle’s performance, but so can its usage. A battery not in use will eventually lose its charge. If a car hasn’t gained a lot of mileage over a period of three weeks or longer, the likelihood of a dead battery increases by roughly 50%, according to a study by Interstate Batteries, making it a leading cause of car trouble. In fact, nearly 1 in 4 car batteries will need to be replaced on the road this year, but more than half of consumers do not test their batteries every year or don’t know if their batteries have been tested, according to the study.

Maintain your battery and your vehicle overall with these tips for safer driving. • At regular intervals, have your car battery tested at a professional service or repair shop. From phone chargers to built-in security systems, your car battery may power more than you think, and it can place a strain on your alternator. If the alternator can’t keep up, your vehicle relies on the battery to make up the difference, which can cause further strain. Having an external battery charger on-hand can help maintain your car’s power during its off time. • Regularly check fluid levels, including your coolant and oil, replace air filters and ensure your tires are properly inflated. • Check to make sure you have your owner’s manual with you either in the glovebox or bookmarked on your smartphone’s browser.

• Replace your jumper cables with a road trip kit containing more practical items, such as a jump box, LED flashlights, first aid kit and duct tape. Jumper cables require another car to power your dead battery and the right positioning to make the cables reach, so a jump box containing a battery and permanently attached jumper cables

can be an easier alternative for getting your car back up and running. Especially when you use your vehicle irregularly, it’s important to practice proper and routine car maintenance so your vehicle is ready when you hit the road again. Find more advice for keeping your car in top condition at Interstate Batteries.com. (Family Features)

What to do if your car won’t start

Call for help Roadside assistance is available through some auto insurance policies as well as numerous club memberships. Alternatively, try contacting friends and family, or if you’re parked at an apartment building or in an office complex, its maintenance or security team may be able to help.

urn everything off. From electronics and climate control to any other accessories that can be powered down, make sure to turn all of them off. This can make it easier for another car to start yours and can prevent potential damage from voltage surges when power is restored.

Raise the hood and leave it open This is a universal sign for help that doesn’t use your battery. If you don’t already know, consult your owner’s manual to find where your battery is located. If you find corrosion around the negative terminal, carefully brush it off or knock it loose with a wrench or tire iron. Do not blow on it, as this can result in debris entering your eyes. Jump-start your car. If possible, use a jump box, which is a compact, rechargeable battery that can jumpstart your car. They’re safer and easier than jumper cables and provide a gentler jump-start for your engine. (Family Features)

M AY 24, 2020

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 1 7

FOOD

Up the Taste of Barbecue

summer weekend isn’t complete until you fire up the grill, but flame-kissed steaks are just the start to an unforgettable meal that celebrates all the best of the season. To create the perfect main dish, start with high-quality protein, like Omaha Steaks’ Private Reserve Boneless New York Strips. Thick, juicy and full of flavorful marbling, these premier steaks are meticulously aged for optimal taste and tenderness with robust, beefy flavor brought out when cooked properly on the grill. If you’re opting for burgers, elevate your menu with flavorful accompaniments like crisp candied bacon for a menu you won’t soon forget. Find more ideas for upgrading the grilling experience in your own backyard at OmahaSteaks.com. (Family Features)

Candied Bacon Prep time 5 minutes Cook time 25 minutes Servings 8 1 pound (1 package) Omaha Steaks Applewood Smoked Steak-Cut Bacon 1 tablespoon fresh ground black pepper 1 cup packed light brown sugar Heat oven to 375 F. Place wire rack on foil-lined baking sheet. Place strips of bacon on wire rack and sprinkle with black pepper. Lightly pat brown sugar on top of bacon in thin layer. Place baking sheet on center rack in oven and bake 25 minutes, or until brown sugar melts and bacon is crisp. Remove from oven and cool 10 minutes. Using

Omaha Steaks Burger with Candied Bacon

tongs, transfer bacon to parchment-lined baking sheet and cool to room temperature. Store in airtight container up to 3 days at room temperature.

Dry-Brined New York Strips with Grilled Brown Butter Balsamic Onions Prep time 1-12 hours Cook time 30-40 minutes Servings 4

Dry Brine:

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Butter and Balsamic:

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Grilled Onions:

2 large sweet onions 4 wooden skewers, soaked 1 tablespoon olive oil salt, to taste pepper, to taste

To make dry brine Combine salt and pepper; season steaks generously on all sides. Place steaks on elevated rack on baking sheet and refrigerate at least 1 hour or overnight. To make butter and balsamic Heat small skillet to medium high heat. Add butter and cook until butter begins to brown and smell nutty. Remove from heat and add balsamic vinegar and thyme. Set aside. To make grilled onions Peel off outer layers of onions. Slice into 1/2-inch slices. Lay onions on flat surface. Push skewers through centers of onions; two onion slices per skewer. Brush onions with olive oil and season with salt and pepper, to taste.

Dry-Brined New York Strips with Grilled Brown Butter Balsamic Onions

To cook steaks and onions Make two-zone fire on charcoal grill with coals on one side and no coals on the other. Place onions on cool side of grill; flip and rotate every 10 minutes until golden brown, approximately 25-30 minutes. Total time will depend on how hot coals are and how close onions are to fire. When onions are golden and tender, brush with brown butter balsamic mixture.

On hot side of grill, during last 15 minutes of cook time for onions, cook steaks to desired temperature. When steaks are 5 F from desired temperature, remove from grill and let rest 5-10 minutes. Remove onions from grill. Carefully remove onions from skewers and place in serving dish. Top with remaining brown butter balsamic mixture and serve with steaks.

18 · S U N D AYS I G N A L

M AY 24, 2020

FINANCE

Focusing on your financial health in times of crisis

t will take some time to adjust and recover from the major disruption experienced because of the COVID-19 pandemic, and many consumers are figuring out how to cope with challenges when it comes to their financial health. A lot of people are feeling the financial strain of not being able to go to work or operate their businesses normally, and many more have had to rethink personal plans and goals for the year. But there are proactive steps you can take to stay focused on your longterm financial health. Consider these suggestions moving forward.

Use tech to your advantage

It is always important for consumers to be aware of the digital banking resources available to them, but now with social distancing measures in place across the country it is more important than ever to know how to use your bank’s website or mobile app to manage your finances from home.

Generally speaking, financial technology can help you with managing your bills, set up direct deposits or make and receive payments from friends and family. Also, if you are still expecting a stimulus check, check your banking app for mobile deposit capabilities. Using QuickDepositSM through Chase, as an example, you can skip the trip to the ATM by taking a photo of the front and back of the check on your mobile device. If you use the Chase Mobile® app, an array of videos can help you make the most of these tools.

Stay alert to scams

Experts suggest triple-checking your social messages, emails or other solicitations for potential fraud. For example, a scammer trying to steal your stimulus check may claim the IRS needs personal information such as your name, password, PIN or account information. Legitimate financial institutions will never ask for such confidential information when

Use your bank’s mobile deposit app if your stimulus check wasn’t automatically deposited into your bank account.

reaching out to you. Be especially alert to messaging that mentions COVID-19 and/or includes either an urgent call to action or contains suspicious links. If you are in doubt, check out official resources like the Federal Trade Commission’s consumer website for information on common scams and how to report them. Also, be sure your financial institution has your latest contact information so they can reach out to you if they detect any suspected fraud on your account.

Check your due dates

Round up all your pending bills and make a list of when they’re due. You can then check the websites listed on bills for utilities, auto loans, mortgages or credit cards to find out if the companies are allowing delayed payments and/or waiving late fees during the COVID crisis — and whether opting in on those options could adversely affect your credit score. If you must delay payments, contact the payees to discuss your payment plan; they may be able to negotiate better terms.

Review what money is available to you

You’re bound to feel more financially secure if you’re aware of all sources of cash and credit you could draw upon to help you through difficult times.

Adjust and readjust

Keep evaluating and changing your budget to account for income re-

ductions and changes in expenses. Recording all purchases can help you pinpoint exactly where your money is going. You may find you’re now spending significantly less on transportation, clothing and entertainment and can reallocate that money toward other essential needs. Don’t have a budget currently built? The free Budget Builder template from Chase can help you get started.

Keep current on credit

Understand which of your financial actions can impact your credit score; that can be particularly important if you’re applying for a loan or credit card or refinancing debt on your home loan. The free Chase Credit Journey tool can help you understand your overall credit health.

Rebuild when you can

If you’re using savings to help you right now, start to rebuild when you can, setting up a safety net to help you cover your everyday needs. If you are expecting or have received a lump sum or relief funds, think about setting some aside for savings if at all possible. Financial health is a journey, and Chase can help you deal with today’s challenges while establishing a solid plan for the future. Visit Chase.com/stayconnected for more financial resources to help you bolster your financial health or address issues related to COVID-19. (BPT)

M AY 24, 2020

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2 0 · S U N D AY S I G N A L

Opinion

MAY 24, 2020

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

Desperate at Home With Elon Musk’s high-profile, economic and civil disobedience of Alameda County’s shutdown order for Tesla’s Fremont plant, will the high-profile precedent encourage other restricted businesses and non-retail entities to initiate similar actions? Will ordinary business owners and workers likewise peacefully insist on their right to earn a living and return to work? Businesses and workers all recognize the potential threat of COVID-19 to public safety. However, the vast majority of citizens have not been affected or have recovered and are now immune. They are seeing their lives and dreams being decimated and not feeling “safer at home.” They are frustrated and becoming “desperate at home.” Californians are more than willing to practice healthy and humane “social distancing” and needed hygienic practices and policies in order to get back to work and see the economy churning again. Please, give us our lives back! Gary Curtis Newhall

Accurate Testing Needed L.A. County had me go to a drive-thru testing site today! One of the reasons there may be false negatives is they have you swab your mouth yourself. No nasal swab. The money and time being wasted! Testing must be done correctly for accurate results! David Estrada Canyon Country

Thanks for Editorial Thank you Signal (editorial, May 16). You got this right and DO represent the views of most in the Santa Clarita Valley with this article. There is definitely going to be push-back by the people who will never accept the moving target of first flattening the curve to now finding a cure for a virus, to eventually, guaranteeing that all people in the country (OK, perhaps just California) never get sick and never die. Who are they kidding? That Mayor Cameron Smyth and the Signal actually understand, articulate our concerns and then finally and most importantly advocate for us, gives many of us hope. Elaine and John Hineman Santa Clarita Submit a Letter to the Editor

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

The Peril of Moralistic Leveling By David Hegg

n the world of social science, ethics is the discipline concerned with right and wrong. Technically, we all have an ethical system, a set of beliefs that – more or less – drive our actions. We consider something or someone to be right or wrong, good or bad depending on how we perceive they align with our belief system. In good and workable belief systems there are always different levels of conviction. Not everything rises to the rank of right or wrong; some things are morally neutral. For example, take the question of whether one should put sugar or salt on tomatoes, or eat them au naturale. While some will argue the relative merits of each option, we all would agree that those who differ on this issue are not engaging in morally despicable behavior. At least I hope so. But not everything is morally neutral. Some things are wrong. It is wrong to steal your neighbor’s tomatoes, staying with the theme. Ordered, civilized society exists on the principle that, while some things are morally neutral and therefore a matter of preference and personal choice, other things are wrong even for those who prefer them. Today we are experiencing a leveling of moral categories. Actions that once were considered wrong have been brought down into the category of morally neutral. In some cases this is the result of clearer thinking and a better understanding of what is really right or wrong. For example, it was once wrong for a girl to call a boy on the phone, wear a hat inside a building, and fail to stand when a woman entered the room. Now we understand that this was never really a moral absolute, but only a cultural custom that eventually melted away. But there are other instances where things that really have a moral rightness to them are being brought down to the morally neutral level. At issue today is where certain things should fall. Are they morally neutral? Or, are they right or wrong? I believe strongly that many of the battles over social issues in our society are exacerbated by the fact that one side passionately believes the issue is morally neutral while the other holds it to be of high moral value based on deeply held ethical convictions. And things get really rough when those who believe something is right attempt to make it incumbent on those who see it as morally neutral, a matter of person-

al preference and choice. I recently saw a bumper sticker that read “Against Abortion? Don’t Have One.” In those five words resides a belief that abortion is morally neutral, and if you don’t like it, don’t do it, but don’t do anything to prevent others from choosing to have one. Imagine, however, a bumper sticker that read “Against Political Corruption? Don’t Be A Corrupt Politician.” I expect that most of us would respond “but political corruption is wrong and even though I’m never going to be an elected official, corruption among elected officials needs to be eliminated.” Or how about “Against Drive By Shootings? Don’t Be A Drive By Shooter.” I hope everyone reading this recognizes the absurdity of such reasoning. For many of us abortion isn’t morally neutral, and to treat it as so infuriates us. But I have also come to understand that, for many, abortion is morally neutral. For many it is just a choice, like deciding whether to keep my car or sell it and get a new one. Those who see it this way believe the matter should be left to personal choice, as should whether I put sugar or salt on my tomatoes. To those who consider abortion morally neutral, those of us who consider it murder are seen as radical, intolerant and dangerous. I get it. The problem lies in the fact that we have a different system of ethical classification, built on differing bases of authority. And that’s an important matter that most never take up. What is the basis for our ethical pronouncements? I greatly fear personal convenience and feeling have been given equal authority with historical precedent and divine proclamation. To put it bluntly, individual desires are now being allowed to trump both natural and divine law. I believe that theism, when understood and practiced with integrity, provides the only consistent basis for upholding high moral standards while recognizing the presence of what is morally neutral. Every other worldview, including personal desire, will ultimately collapse everything into one level that plays to our selfish preferences, like thinking that choosing to end a life is on par with how you eat your tomatoes. Local resident David Hegg is senior pastor of Grace Baptist Church. “Ethically Speaking” appears Sundays.

M AY 24, 2020

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