Sunday Signal May 31, 2020

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MAY 31, 2020

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M AY 31, 2020

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 3

TABLE OF CONTENTS

NEWS FEATURES 4 More ways to battle boredom 5 Making sacrifices for our seniors’ care 6 Sports fans long for return to action 7 Spring cleaning amid the pandemic FROM THE CITY MANAGER 8 Working together to safely reopen TECHNOLOGY 9 Tech tips for iOS, Android smartphones KIDS & FAMILY 10 Eight activities to keep children entertained Junior Whirl 11 Donna’s Day: Twist, shape and bake bears Keep your baby sun-safe HEALTH AND BEAUTY 12 Putting your best home-facial face forward What drives nightime visions, vivid dreams?

FOOD 14 Take a world-cuisine dining tour close to home American Cheese Meatloaf, Layered BLT Salad ENTERTAINMENT 15 ‘The Lovebirds’ and ‘Scoob!’ now available online HOME 16 Considerations when designing a home gym Other items to think about when outfitting your gym SENIOR LIVING 17 When communication becomes difficult GARDENING 18 Perennial gardening is good for your health PETS 19 Stuck inside? Fun activities for you and your pet FINANCE 20 Creating a household budget with staying power OPINION

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4 · S U N D AYS I G N A L

M AY 31, 2020

N E W S F E AT U R E S

More ways to battle quarantine boredom

By Emily Alvarenga Signal Staff Writer

T

hough you may be tackling quarantine boredom like a seasoned pro as we enter the ninth week since schools in the Santa Clarita Valley closed, the cabin fever has surely begun to set in by now.

Both you and the kiddos might be getting a bit restless. If you’ve already run through the lists of family-friendly quarantine activities published in various Sunday Signal editions, maybe even twice, don’t worry, we’ve got more coming your way.

Paint some rocks

Get the paint out and grab some rocks because it’s time to get creative.

Let the kids draw whatever they’d like on their rocks, then help them write an inspiring message on them. Next, it’s time to hide them around the neighborhood for others to find.

A number of SCV residents have already started doing this and received some positive responses, including 10-year-old Allysse Castro and 14-year-old Matteo Zuleta, who began painting rocks after finding some painted ones on their walk through the Valencia Hills paseos.

“There were few rocks when we walked, so we came home and made tons more,” mother Ninet Castro said.

Since then, they’ve painted dozens of rocks with positive messages before hiding them around town for others to find, even discovering later who found them through social media, which has been exciting.

Now, they’ve taken their art to the driveway, creating positive messages in chalk to share with their neighbors who walk by.

Keep learning!

With a number of organizations launching free, online learning tools, like Scholastic, PBS and Have Fun Teaching, among others, learning can be a fun way to pass the time. Each includes day-to-day activities with downloadable worksheets, songs, videos and projects in all subjects to keep kids thinking.

Stay active

While many kids may be excited they don’t have to do P.E. anymore

Grab some rocks and some paint and get creative. Then, hide them around the neighborhood for others to find. Killian Gallagher, 3, discovers some painted rocks on the paseos of a Valencia Hills subdivision. PHOTOS COURTESY MUSETTE CAING HART

with schools closed, it’s still important to exercise. Joe Wicks, known primarily as “The Body Coach,” has decided he will become the nation’s P.E. teacher. Each day at 9 a.m., Wicks has been holding half-hour, kids’ workout classes on his YouTube channel, so anyone can follow along.

Do some more cooking

Quarantine is the perfect opportunity to teach kids some of the basic skills they won’t learn in school, like how to cook some basic meals.

Do some meditating

The current health crisis can be extremely stressful for both parents and kids alike. Meditation can be a great stress reliever, even if only done for a few minutes at a time.

Valencia resident Jeff Bomberger is posting some 5-minute meditation videos on his Facebook, so that you and your family can follow along.

“We could use more folks using this time to go inward and relieving anxiousness,” Bomberger said. “I just want to offer what solace I can.”

Build a pillow fort

If your cardboard fort from last week was a hit, change it up by using pillows and blankets this time.

If you don’t have any new books on hand, Kindle is currently offering two months free.

Get reading

Challenge yourself to dust off those books you’ve been meaning to read.

Get into that pillow fort you just built and have the kids read their own books while you read your’s if they’re

old enough.

Tend your gardens

Whether you’ve already started your garden or not, now is the perfect time to teach those kiddos how to grow some of those much-needed fruits, vegetables or herbs. Get them to pick some of their favorites and make some room for them to start planting.

Make some donations

After spring cleaning is done, you may have found some things you’re willing to part with. Many local organizations are in need of donations, such as the SCV Food Pantry, Bridge to Home, Help the Children and more. Reach out and see what supplies they’re in need of because you might just have some to spare.

Stay in touch

Grandma and grandpa are stuck inside as well, so they, too, are probably feeling quite lonely right about now. Keep making those phone calls, or even FaceTime or Skype them if you can. This not only allows you to check in on them, but gets everyone some much-needed love.

You can also set up video calls with some of your kid’s friends, as they probably are missing each other quite a bit right now, as well.

Get musical

Whether you already know how to play something or nothing at all, this is the perfect time to sharpen your skills. Watch some YouTube tutorials and get playing!

Pianist and Valencia resident Oksa-

na Kolesnikova is offering free group beginner piano lessons for children on her YouTube channel every Saturday, while West Coast Music Academy has also created a free online master class for anyone who is interested in music production.

“The current events are affecting all of us, (but) my heart especially aches for all of the children who are now confined to their homes due to social distancing,” Kolesnikova said. “So, I would like to contribute and donate my time and skill to help children ages 7-13 in our community.”

Break out those board games

Pull out all those board games you’ve been stockpiling for a family game night (or day). If your kids have outgrown the games you’ve got, try creating some new rules to make them more challenging, or go down memory lane and let them realize how silly those games really are.

For Saugus resident Jenny Staples, who has five kids, ranging in ages from 4-20, finding a game they could all play together was often difficult, she said.

“A few weeks ago, we started making up our own rules to some of our family’s favorite games,” Staples said.

“Then, that worked so well that we started creating our own games. Our favorites so far are the ones we’ve created that involve our own family history. It’s been so fun to challenge the younger kids to learn more about the family, while also getting the older ones engaged in teaching them.”

M AY 31, 2020

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 5

Making sacrifices for our seniors’ care

N E W S F E AT U R E S

By Emily Alvarenga Signal Staff Writer

W

hen residents at the Oakmont of Valencia Senior Living Center went into lockdown in mid-March amid rising fears of the coronavirus, their lives changed drastically, but it was the staff who took on the challenge to make those changes manageable.

It wasn’t long after Oakmont’s traditions director Stephanie Funderburg was placed in the center’s COVID unit to oversee and care for sick residents that she made the decision to move her kids to their grandparents.

“My exposure to (COVID-19) and long days and nights spurred that decision,” she said. “It was an extremely tough decision since I did not know how long all this would last and when it would be safe for them to return home.”

Now, it’s been more than seven weeks since she’s seen her kids, and FaceTime has become her best friend in staying in touch with them.

During that time, she missed her son’s 11th birthday in April and spent her first Easter away from them.

“The hardest was when my daughter Savanna, 9, called crying just wanting to see her mommy,” Funderburg added. “It was very difficult, but my kids are at the age (that they) know that what I was doing was for my residents and helping save lives.”

However, it’s been the sacrifice of all of the Oakmont staff, not just hers, that she says has made it possible.

“Our staff and residents were scared,” Funderburg said, “(but) with such a strong management team and support from our corporation, we were able to act quickly.”

Wearing personal protective equipment, or PPE, has become their new normal, and adhering to the Centers for Disease Control and Department of Public Health’s guidelines has already begun to feel like second nature, Funderburg added. “(At) Oakmont, the standard of care has always been high, (but) it went higher because of the … regulations for COVID-19,” added Rita Akpenyi, a licensed vocational nurse at Oakmont. “Just like any health care

Diana Serrano

Daesung Suh

Marshall Johnson

Jacquelyn Carpenter

Stephanie Funderburg, traditions director for Oakmont of Valencia Senior Living Center, is one of many on staff at the facility who’ve made personal sacrifices to take care of the community’s seniors during the recent COVID-19 pandemic. PHOTOS COURTESY OAKMONT

provider, it was overwhelming (at first), but Oakmont provided more than needed to staff to fight covid.”

Daesung Suh, a maintenance assistant at Oakmont, says it was great to see staff get to work immediately to execute the plans and procedures.

“Everyone pulled together to get through this,” he said. “Teamwork is essential, (as is) having good leadership that takes care of staff and residents.”

Many of the staff agree that these increased safety measures are just some of the necessary changes that needed to be made to keep both themselves and residents safe.

“The changes that have been implemented through Oakmont’s management group have been amazing, as they continue to follow all CDC guidelines, yet make life for all … residents comfortable,” added Marshall Johnson, a traditions care provider at Oakmont. “(The virus) has heightened my sense awareness,” Funderburg added.

“It makes you more in tune to what you touch and how often you should

be washing your hands. Like I tell my team, we must protect ourselves first, so we can protect our residents.”

Both Suh and Johnson agree and say they’ve seen a change in their daily routine, which now includes having good hygiene practices at all times and an increased awareness of safety in and outside of work.

“I now have to disinfect my car daily, change my clothing before entering my home and take multiple showers a day, as to prevent crossing covid to any family members, especially my 3-year-old son who has asthma,” Johnson added.

Nevertheless, Johnson says that he’s been blessed to not have had many challenges during the current health crisis, as it’s the bonds he’s made that outweigh any challenges he’s faced.

“There are multiple rewarding parts to this career, but by far the best part is the smiles you see on the residents faces, the thank yous you receive from the families,” Johnson said.

“Bonds like this are ever-lasing and will always be forever in each and every caregiver’s heart.”

Rita Akpenyi

All the same, most agree that having residents self-isolate has been quite a challenge.

“The most significant challenge that we are currently facing is social interaction or the lack thereof,” said Diana Serrano, a concierge at Oakmont. “Oakmont employees miss the residents dearly. Our community feels so lonely and empty. We miss their voices and their laughter.”

“I feel like the residents are the heartbeat of the building and the virus changed that,” added Oakmont staff Jacquelyn Carpenter.

Even so, Carpenter says it’s been rewarding to see the many creative ways loved ones have used to show the residents at Oakmont their support.

“Seeing the love families have shown through sidewalk chalk, window visits, cards, flowers, extra messages of love and the look of happiness on the residents’ faces,” she said.

“It gives them a little bit more hope is the way I see it.”

See OAKMONT, page 8

6 · S U N D AYS I G N A L

M AY 31, 2020

N E W S F E AT U R E S

Sports fans long for return to action

By Caleb Lunetta Signal Staff Writer

F

or the last two-plus months, diehard sports fans have been faced with a troubling dilemma: What are people supposed to do when there’s no regular season, no playoffs not even a scrimmage to watch.

There have been some silver linings in the past few weeks. Major League Baseball has said they would like games to begin in July if possible.

The National Basketball League is in talks for having games played out in a campus-style league in Florida. National Football League officials have said “there definitely will be a football season.”

On Tuesday, the National Hockey League announced formal plans to return to play with a 24-team, straight-to-playoffs format with the league’s other seven teams having their seasons ended. Two cities will host the teams battling it out for the Stanley Cup, according to NHL public relations.

While these plans fail to address the two biggest needs of sports fans in the short term — playing or watching — some reprieve might be around the corner, according to city and county officials.

Playing sports

The city of Santa Clarita is wellknown for its cultivation of sports programs, whether it be for adults or kids.

In adult softball alone, over 200 teams of 12-15 adults gather through-

out the week during a city softball league, gearing up after a long day of work, to play the sport they love.

When COVID-19 hit, the seasons were canceled.

But the city is looking to the future to see how and when they’ll be able to bring sports back for both kids and adults, according to Lance O’Keefe, the recreation and community services manager for the city of Santa Clarita.

“The reality is getting 200 teams interested in playing again, getting a couple thousand people interested in sports again,” said O’Keefe. “Contact isn’t likely, so we’re going to have to slowly roll out. Once we get the regulations from the (Centers for Disease Control) and healthcare professionals, we’re going to have to set every program, every league, every sport to the industry standard.”

“What are the recommendations and how can we roll those protocols out to make sure staff are safe, the players are safe, the spectators are safe and all within reason.”

O’Keefe said the loss of recreational sports, such as softball, has been hard for people as it’s not only their hobby, but one of their communities, as well.

“Essentially, when you’re not at work, you’re doing things for fun, and (sports) is an opportunity to provide people that fun, enjoyable environment that they can get away from their work obligations and bring the family out,” said O’Keefe. “It’s just a way to put yourself in that different kind of playful mindset.”

Jennie Marie looks on as Mike Bigelow, of Castaic, “tees off” on a par-3 hole of the 18-hole disc golf course at Central Park in Saugus. Santa Clarita recently announced a Virtual Disc Golf League for June, as part of its plans to start to bring back recreational activities while being mindful of necessary health restrictions. PHOTOS

BY DAN WATSON / THE SIGNAL

Practicing sports

As for practicing sports, maybe outside of the organized, competitive environment, those opportunities are still readily available, O’Keefe said.

The pickleball courts, tennis courts and fields operated by the city remain open for those who wish to use them and stay socially-distanced. Basketball courts remain closed, with the boards still in the hoops, O’Keefe said.

“There are people out on the field,” said O’Keefe. “Anybody can go out on a field and do an activity.”

From throwing a ball around, to catching a frisbee, to hiking a trail, a number of sports are open.

“Take advantage of the open, unreserved fields, the hiking trails, but maintain that social distance and wear that mask when you’re not doing the physical activity.

“I also see a lot of people doing stuff in their garage right now, with their own at home workouts,” said O’Keefe. “People will find a way to continue to recreate and exercise.

Watching sports

A group practices basketball at Central Park in Saugus. Now that parks have been opened for recreation, sports fans who have been pining for action are returning to the courts and fields to play.

Local sports bars in Santa Clarita are a staple on any given weekend afternoon, whether for a Dodgers, Lakers, Rams or college game.

COVID-19 shut down both bars and restaurants temporarily. On Tuesday, the L.A. County Board of Supervisors opened a number of locations to the public, including retail

outlets, flea markets and places of worship — but sports bars were not included.

Some are ready to have their regulars return, according to Schooners Patio & Grille owner Teri Ledesma.

“We have enough competition going on (in terms of professional sports) that we’ll be able to satisfy our customers’ needs,” said Ledesma.

“Whatever sporting event it is is going to be on our TV.” It’s not just about watching the game, it’s the fun environment.

“Customers like to come for our atmosphere,” said Ledesma. “ And so we’ve heard a lot of positive feedback from our regular customers and they’re just as eager as we are to get the doors reopened. Whatever the first event is, even if it’s a sport they don’t watch, they’ll be in here to watch it.”

Ledesma said the laws change everyday for her business, but people can expect to walk into her bar and see employees in masks and gloves, and customers are not going to be able to throw peanut shells on the floor like they used to.

Regardless, bars are ready to have their sports fans back, Ledesma said.

“I’m not going to lie, I just had a meeting with all my employees and they’re ready to come back,” said Ledesma. “We’re just waiting for the green light.”

M AY 31, 2020

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 7

N E W S F E AT U R E S

Spring cleaning amid the coronavirus pandemic

By Tammy Murga Signal Staff Writer

W

hile the SCV is holding on for what many hope will be the last weeks of the stay-at-home orders still in place across Los Angeles County, residents continue to hunker down at home and might have some time on their hands to take up spring cleaning.

There are many areas to spruce up, making smaller areas that can collect germs easier to forget.

But they are vital to cover, especially amid the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, according to Courtney Andrews, owner of The Mindful Organizer, a Santa Clarita Valley-based that offers decluttering and home organizing services.

“Detailed cleaning is something that people don’t have the time for and now is when a lot of people have a little more time to do so, and it doesn’t have to be expensive,” she said.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends frequent cleaning and disinfecting one’s home, particularly items that are frequently touched, such as phones, light switches, doorknobs and remote controls.

Before tackling the smaller items, try organizing your space first.

Get organized by decluttering

Spring cleaning can be a hefty process but taking it on by sections is key, according to Andrews.

“Every day in my home there’s a different zone to clean so that I can pay close attention to it and that way I don’t feel overwhelmed,” she said. “You can start by picking one area and pull everything out, which might feel daunting but this is how you’ll

know what’s stored in the back of a closet, for example.”

Try ridding your space of unwanted or nonfunctional items, or objects that are out of your personal style. Once you have what you will be keeping, group similar items in organized storing, which can make for easier access later, added Andrews.

A more organized space can help reduce stress and improve productivity, according to Alison Hu, a licensed counseling psychologist with Kaiser Permanente.

“When your environment is messy, it is challenging to relax and engage in self-care, which then perpetuates feelings of anxiety,” she said in a statement on Kaiser Permanente’s website.

Tip: Consider gathering unused or unwanted items around your household to give away to a local charitable organization. Non-perishable goods can also be donated to local food banks. Medication bottles and packaging can easily stack up. To properly dispose of any unwanted medications, Henry Mayo Newhall Hospital offers a secure medication drop-box located inside its main lobby.

Now that you cleared your space of unwanted, excess possessions, the deep cleaning can begin.

Here is a guide to tackle some inconspicuous items in your spring cleaning routine this year:

Doorknobs and light switches

Whether moving from room to room or coming home from everyday errands, door handles and light switches are some of the most frequently touched objects in one’s household but can be easily overlooked when cleaning.

Make a list of all the handles and switches around your household, such as refrigerator handles, faucets and shower doors, toilet handles, lamp pulls and those located on the exterior of your home.

Then get ready to tackle those areas for deep cleaning.

“If you have a disinfectant, grab a bucket and fill it with water. Grab a microfiber towel and an old toothbrush and walk around your home with your little bucket and clean anything you see like light switches, doorknobs and around the doors. You’d be surprised how yucky those areas get,” said Andrews.

She also recommends pulling furniture away from the walls for easier access to clean moldings.

Children and pet toys

Last year, “Tidying Up with Marie Kondo” sought to teach us how to spark joy in their own space through organizing. Every year, millions turn to spring cleaning as a chance to organize their lives, and the tail end of quarantine is an especially good time. PHOTO COURTESY KONMARI MEDIA

Toys are some of the most-used items on a daily basis by either children or pets, meaning frequently and careful cleaning is vital.

Objects sealed in hard plastic, such as doll pieces of Legos, where water won’t get inside, can be placed in a dishwasher and throw items into the washing machine, such as stuffed animals, where their labels are safe to do so, said Andrews.

“You can grab a mesh laundry bag and put small items and wash them through a cycle in the dish-

While it might be a good time to organize the house, it’s also important to make sure you keep your regularly used devices clean. (MC)

washer. If you don’t have a dishwasher or don’t feel comfortable using one, put a stopper in the sink and wash them there. Same thing goes for pet toys,” she said.

Dilute household solutions

To safely clean out frequently used items, dilute household solutions, the CDC recommends.

For bleach solutions, check the label to see if the bleach is intended for disinfection and ensure the product has not yet expired.

“Follow manufacturer’s instructions for application and proper ventilation. Never mix household bleach with ammonia or any other cleanser. Leave (the) solution on the surface for at least 1 minute,” the CDC said on its website.

Alcohol solutions with at least 70% of alcohol may also be used.

Remember, keep it simple

Spring cleaning doesn’t have to be fancy work.

Use what you have readily available at home, Andrews recommends.

“It doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. Really, any cleaner marked as a disinfectant is going to be fine. Just follow the guidelines and read the label on how to dilute the liquids,” she said. “Some think more is better or using solutions straight from the bottle is more effective but that can cause respiratory issues or might be dangerous for kids and pets.”

Tip: Try preparing a bottle of water and extra vinegar if you can’t find anything in a store. These two ingredients can clean almost every surface, including wood surfaces, said Andrews.

8 · S U N D AYS I G N A L

M AY 31, 2020

FROM THE CITY MANAGER

Working together to safely reopen Santa Clarita

By City Manager Ken Striplin

T

he local business community is voicing its readiness to open its doors and once again provide goods and services to the Santa Clarita Valley.

As we work with the County of Los Angeles to move at a safe, yet swifter pace, many organizations continue to be innovative in how they plan to open up while keeping our community safe.

Here at City Hall, we have implemented guidelines to ensure the safety of City staff and all visitors. Visitors are required to wear a mask in the building, avoid physical contact, maintain social distancing and refrain from coming to City Hall when feeling ill.

Additionally, plexiglass barriers have been installed at service

counters, along with hand sanitizing dispensers. We have also increased sanitation efforts, with high touch surfaces being cleaned throughout the day, such as restrooms, door handles, light switches and other surfaces to keep residents, visitors and City staff safe.

It is important to note that at this time, visitors are only able to enter City Hall through the main entrance on Valencia Boulevard, where they will be greeted and checked-in by a City staffer.

Before coming to City Hall, all are encouraged to make appointments online for City services at santaclarita.com or to call (661) 259-CITY. Apart from City Hall, our City’s Arts, Events, Recreation, Library, Community Service teams and beyond are working hard to deliver alternative programming to meet the needs of residents in a safe way.

For example, The MAIN is hosting weekly virtual events workshops for

all to enjoy. Our library staff has also recently implemented curbside pickup of materials and soon, a locker system, for residents to pick up holds without having to enter the library.

The City’s Arts and Events team is showing their creativity as well, through the launch of virtual art exhibits.

The most recent exhibit is titled “Art in Isolation” and includes 40 pieces that were curated from more than 130 submissions. Each piece of art was created or inspired by quarantine, isolation and ongoing social distancing.

When people visit SantaClarita Arts.com they can click on “Current Exhibits” to enter the virtual art gallery. As you explore this new space, you can virtually stroll from one art piece to the next, experiencing the gallery feel in an online format.

This is just a glimpse into the work City staff is doing to provide programming and engagement creatively.

We are also working closely with our local business organizations through the Santa Clarita Valley Economic Development Corporation (SCVEDC), the Santa Clarita Val-

ley Chamber of Commerce and the Valley Industry Association (VIA) to assist local businesses through a safe reopening process and promote the importance of shopping local.

Operations for our local businesses will look much different as staff and patrons will be required to wears masks and practice social distancing.

In addition, employers are educating themselves on best practices, including providing hand sanitizer for employees and patrons, following CDC cleaning protocols, implementing contactless payment and providing general COVID-19 awareness training for employees.

I am thankful for the resilience, patience and care that our residents and businesses have shown in this period of uncertainty. I look forward to the time when we can visit with family, friends and loved ones while enjoying all our City has to offer together.

Ken Striplin can be reached at kstriplin@santa-clarita.com. The views expressed in his column are those of the City and do not necessarily reflect those of The Signal.

OAKMONT

Continued from page 5

While some residents understand that these measures are being taken for their safety, others are taking it a little harder, especially those in memory care.

“In memory care, the challenge is getting them to understand why they can not do what they used to do, like going out or to the movies,” Akpenyi said.

Through each challenge, Oakmont Executive Director Margie Veis says the staff have truly shown what teamwork and commitment to residents and each other looks like.

“Everyday they had the choice to wake up and put on their uniforms and come to work or to not. They chose to be here, even with the feel-

ings of fear and anxiety,” Veis said.

“We certainly did not sign up for it, but we came together for our residents and each other.”

Funderburg agreed, adding, “The most rewarding part of this difficult time has been seeing our Oakmont community pull together through such a trying time. We have seen staff rise on every occasion possible to provide the best quality care for all our residents. They are true heroes in my eyes.”

M AY 31, 2020

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 9

Tech tips for iOS and Android smartphones

By Kim Komando Signal Contributing Writer

• Tap the three-dot Menu icon, then tap Special access.

ockdowns are loosening, people are returning to public life and back to work.

We all know the importance of washing our hands, but tech can help.

You’re probably spending a lot more time than usual on your phone since COVID-19 hit. Take a few minutes now to bring it back to its normal state as you figure out your new normal.

• Tap Optimize battery usage.

1. Reduce your cellular data use You probably spent most of your time connected to Wi-Fi at home.

Now that you’ll be out-and-about, you don’t want to accidentally hit your data cap. iOS Low data mode stops background syncing and app refreshes:

• Tap Settings.

• Open Settings, then Cellular, followed by Cellular Data Options.

• If you don’t see Security, tap Security & location or Google, followed

by Security.

L

• Turn on Low Data Mode.

Android To enable Data Saver Mode: • Open your phone’s Settings app.

• Tap Network & internet, followed

by Data Saver.

• Turn Data Saver on or off.

2. Change the way your phone charges When your charger is nearby, it doesn’t matter if your battery life and energy settings are optimized. But when you’re on the go, you’ll want your phone to charge quickly and last as long as possible. iOS • Open Settings, then Battery and Battery Health, followed by Optimized Battery Charging.

• Choose the Battery option, followed by Battery Health.

• Turn on Optimized Battery Charging.

Android Battery optimization is on by default on most Androids. Here’s how to check for Android 8.0 and higher.

• Go to Settings > Apps.

do on today’s digital lifestyle, from smartphones and tablets to online

• Tap the Dropdown menu (a small triangle) then tap All. 3. Be ready if you lose your phone If you lose your phone and can’t retrace your steps, use Find My Device.

This lets you track down your Android or iPhone when it’s out of sight, and you can even remotely wipe your phone if it somehow finds its way into the wrong hands.

Turn on Find My iPhone for iOS • Check that you’re signed in to iCloud on your iPhone.

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• If you see Sign in to your [device], tap it and enter your Apple ID and password.

Turn on Find My Device for Android • Open Settings.

• Tap Security, then Find My Device.

• Make sure Find My Device is turned on and toggle it on if it’s off.

• Note: You may need to download the Google Find My Device app.

4. Look at what you signed up for a during the lockdown All those streaming services, games, and news subscriptions you signed up for are going to impact your wallet in a big way. Now is the time to whittle them down. iOS • Open Settings and click on the menu with your name, followed by Subscriptions.

• Tap Cancel Subscription on the subscriptions you want to cancel, or Cancel Free Trial — which is located at the bottom of the screen.

Android • Open the Google Play Store app.

• Tap Menu, followed by Subscriptions.

• Find the subscriptions you want to cancel and tap Cancel Subscription to close them.

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10 · S U N D AYS I G N A L

M AY 31, 2020

K I D S & FA M I LY

Eight activities to keep children entertained

W

hat parent hasn’t heard their child utter the familiar phrase “I’m bored” at some point? Despite a seemingly vast array of toys, electronics and other items at their disposal, children can be quick to sulk and say there’s nothing to do.

Parents can counter “I’m bored” with these eight boredom-busting activities that are certain to help pass the time in entertaining and sometimes educational ways.

Craft time Pick a theme and gather the materials for the project.

For example, kids can evoke a trip to the ocean by creating handmade sea creatures. Paint a paper plate and hang brightly colored

yarn underneath it to create the “tentacles” of a jellyfish. Kids can use salt dough clay to fashion seashells, sea snails or crustaceans.

Painting Shaving cream is a great sensory material that is relatively easy to clean up. Kids can whip up a batch of shaving cream paint and use it to finger paint on a table or even in the bathtub. Simply mix shaving cream with food coloring in a bowl, or use a muffin tin to separate the colors.

Build a birdhouse Birdhouses or bird feeders can be made from scraps of material found around the house.

Scavenge for spare lumber or other supplies in the shed or garage. An adult or older sibling can help cut the wood into pieces. Young children may enjoy painting the house. Wood adhesive or screws can be used to assemble the project.

Plan a garden Kids can help to design a garden the entire family will maintain and even be responsible for a special parcel that’s all their own. Gardens can grow food, flowers and more. Add a touch of

Parents can counter “I’m bored” with these eight boredom-busting activities that are certain to help pass the time in entertaining and sometimes educational ways.

whimsy with figurines for a fairy garden or even small superhero figures for a spot for boys to tend.

Box makeovers Tissue boxes or cereal boxes can be made into many different creations with paint or construction paper. Use a few craft supplies like pom-poms or wiggly eyes to turn boxes into “monsters.”

Boat races Build a small sailboat for each member of the family. Fill up a long, shallow container and take turns racing the boats by blowing on the sails.

Leaf art Gather leaves and twigs from around the yard and then combine pieces to make them look like various animals.

Spray park Create an at-home spray park with a garden hose and a pool noodle. Poke several small holes into the pool noodle on all sides.

Stick a garden hose into the end of the pool noodle and hot-glue a wine cork into the hole at the other end.

Turn on the water and let kids run through.

Head off kids’ boredom by having plenty of ideas at the ready. 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.

(MC)

M AY 31, 2020

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 1 1

Donna’s Day: Creative Family Fun

Twist, shape and bake healthy bread bears

By Donna Erickson Signal Contributing Editor

B

aking bread is just plain fun when your preschoolers shape prepared dough into adorable bear shapes. Toss in simple math along the way too, as your pint-size bakers divide the dough into halves, fourths and even sixths to form the bear’s arms, legs and snout.

They’ll watch the dough rise before their eyes, and they’ll love “painting” the bears with an egg wash before you pop them in the oven.

Serve them warm, drizzled with some honey from a little pot for a memorable afternoon treat. Here are the simple ingredients you’ll need for two 8-inch-tall bears: • One loaf of prepared frozen bread dough, such as Rhodes brand (available in the frozen-food section of grocery stores) • 1 egg, beaten with 1 tablespoon of water

• Raisins • Honey (optional) Here’s the fun: 1. Thaw the loaf of frozen bread dough for two 8-inch-tall bears.

Use it while it is still cold.

2. Cut the loaf in half. Set one of the halves aside for a few minutes while you form the first bear.

3. Cut the dough into two even pieces and let your child roll one of the pieces into a ball with his hands.

Set it on a large, greased cookie sheet for the body. Press it down to flatten slightly.

4. Cut the other piece in half. Roll one of the halves into a ball for the head and place it above the body.

You may need to pinch the two parts together.

5. Pick off a small bit from the remaining piece for the snout. Cut the rest into six even pieces. Roll all seven small pieces into balls.

K I D S & FA M I LY

Place a ball on the face for the snout, two ears at the top of the head, 2 arms at the sides of the body, and 2 legs to the bottom of the body.

6. Make tiny slits in the dough and insert raisins for eyes and for a belly button. Repeat steps for second bear.

7. Let them rise, covered with a damp towel or plastic wrap, for about 45 minutes in a warm place until doubled in size.

8. Remove covering and brush some egg mixture on top of the bears.

Bake at 350 F for 25 minutes or until golden brown. Cool on a cooling rack.

TIP Make several bears, and dress them up with thin ribbons tied around their necks. Set in a basket as treats at a teddy bear party.

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.

Keep your baby sun-safe

S

pending time outdoors is a summertime tradition for people of all ages. Sunny summer afternoons may be especially cherished in 2020, when people across the globe have been forced to spend more time indoors as they adhere to social distancing guidelines implemented to prevent the spread of the COVID-19 virus.

Parents of infants may be extra excited to get outdoors this summer.

Chances to get out and about don’t come around very often for parents of infants, and those chances may be even more rare as social distancing guidelines remain in place.

But before parents rush out the door to soak up some summer sun, it’s imperative that they take steps to protect their tiny tots from UV rays.

• Avoid exposing infants to the sun.

The Skin Cancer Foundation notes that infants’ skin is especially sensitive to the sun, so the organization advises parents to shield children six months and younger from the sun rather than using sunscreen.

Instead of applying sunscreen to their infants, parents should keep

them out of the sun entirely. Seek shade between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., when the sun’s rays are especially intense.

When taking infants out in their strollers, make sure they are shaded at all times and avoid walking on the sunny side of the street.

• Dress babies for the sun.

The SCF advises parents to dress their babies in brimmed hats and lightweight clothing that fully covers their arms and legs.

Dressing babies for the sun may seem like common sense, but the SCF notes that researchers at the University of Miami found that only 43%of parents consistently cover their babies with hats, and even fewer (40%) cover babies with long-sleeved shirts and pants when going out in the sun.

• Consider sunglasses.

Sunglasses are another way parents can protect their children from the sun’s harmful ultraviolet rays.

Sunglasses can be an alternative for parents whose infants keep taking off their hats, as many baby-sized sunglasses are equipped with elastic

straps to keep the glasses on.

Sunglasses may be vital because the melanin in infants’ eyes is still forming, and that development can be adversely affected if infants’ eyes are exposed to UV rays.

• Introduce sunscreen at six months.

The SCF advises parents to begin applying sunscreen to their infants when their children reach six months of age. Choose a broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen with a minimum SPF of 15.

The SCF notes that sunscreens that contain zinc oxide and titanium di-

oxide are good choices because these physical filters do not rely on absorption of chemicals and are therefore less likely to cause a skin reaction.

The SCF also advises testing the sunscreen on your baby’s wrist before applying it all over the body. This can indicate if the product irritates the child’s skin and needs to be replaced, or if it’s safe to use.

In the rush to get outside, parents should make sure they don’t forget to take every step necessary to protect their infants from UV exposure.

(MC)

12 · S U N D AYS I G N A L

M AY 31, 2020

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

Putting your best home-facial face forward

F

acials can bring about the best in your skin and help treat various conditions.

Few things beat the pampering of a professional facial spa treatment — a luxury that many men and women afford themselves when possible. However, lately people have had to look elsewhere for popular beauty services.

Data from the Simmons National Consumer Survey for the cosmetic and personal care industry revealed roughly three million Americans received facials four times or more in 2019. Many aestheticians recommend facials every month.

Though they’re wildly popular, facials have fallen victim to social distancing guidelines that shuttered many salons. While not a carbon copy of the in-depth treatments offered at spas, at-home facials can bridge the gap until spas reopen.

Understand the facial process

Professional facials typically feature a series of steps. These include cleansing, exfoliation, steaming, extraction, specialized spot treatment, toning, and moisturizing.

Aestheticians use products they endorse or those required by the spa.

But you can use any products on hand to achieve similar results, which means you can shop around for the price point that works for you.

Understanding your skin is the key to targeting and addressing issues when starting a home facial regimen.

Know your skin

Understanding your skin is the key to targeting and addressing issues.

Just because a particular moisturizer worked on your sister who has dry skin doesn’t mean it would work the same way on your skin. Consider allergies as well. If you tend to break out when sipping orange juice, a citrus-based toner may not be your best bet.

Gather your tools

You likely have all you need at

home to give yourself a good facial.

A steamy shower or a pot of boiling water satisfies the steam requirement.

A nubby, cotton washcloth can help with the cleansing and exfoliation of skin. Chances are you already have a toner, cleanser and moisturizer in your bathroom cabinet that can be utilized.

If you want to invest in any specialized tools, aestheticians like Kerry Benjamin from the Los Angeles-based StackedSkincare recommend micro-needling, which is

achieved with a dermaroller.

This device causes tiny injuries to the skin to increase collagen production and help thicken the skin. A dermaroller can help with issues like dark circles under the eyes and fill in lines.

Spot-test all products and be gentle when handling skin. In addition, remember to follow up any facial treatment with good skincare at other times, which includes wearing sunscreen at all times to protect against UV rays. (MC)

To your good health —

What drives nighttime visions and vivid dreams?

By Keith Roach, M.D. Signal Contributing Writer

Dear Dr. Roach I am an extremely healthy 76-year-old woman. Almost every night, I am startled awake by visions of people standing over my bed. It’s usually once, but can happen up to three times in a night. It’s often after being asleep for an hour and a half.

They’re not dreams. Something wakes me up, and that is when I see a man or a couple or a child standing around my bed or attempting to jump onto the bed. Though it lasts only seconds, my heart hammers and I jump out of bed to chase “them” away, and even checking the door locks. Then I

sort of come around and pretty much laugh at myself. As it’s quite frightening, I believe I shout out, and it takes me a bit to calm back down.

I take neither prescription drugs nor sleep-inducing medicine. Why am I experiencing this? What actually wakes me up to see these visions? Otherwise, I sleep very well. I would greatly appreciate your insight or any advice as to who I might talk with about it.

— Anon.

Answer I hesitate to tell you, but what I am concerned about most is a condition called dementia with Lewy bodies. This is not Alzheimer’s disease. In fact, the earliest symptoms are usually visual hallucinations. If

you read this account //bit.ly/2Sk1Jzo, I think you may find some characteristics that sound familiar.

What makes me doubt this diagnosis is that you report no confusion or memory problems. Although some people may have the hallucinations well before any thinking problems come up, they are in a minority. Wobbliness may go along with Lewy body dementia. Parkinson’s disease may develop visual hallucinations, but that is usually late in the disease.

This information can be shocking or depressing, but it is still important information for you to have. There is treatment for LBD. More importantly, there are medications that can make

it much worse.

I would recommend you visit a neurologist and specifically find someone with expertise in dementia, as that is who is unlikely to miss this diagnosis. Unfortunately, it is not always recognized early.

Here is some additional information to read about this condition, //bit.ly/2BSdmYW. Dr. Roach regrets that he is unable to answer individual questions, but will incorporate them in the column whenever possible. Readers may email questions to ToYourGoodHealth@ med.cornell.edu. © 2020 North America Synd., Inc. All Rights Reserved

M AY 31, 2020

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 1 3

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14 · S U N D AYS I G N A L

M AY 31, 2020

FOOD

Take a world-cuisine dining tour close to home

S

taycations can be perfect ways to rest and recharge without having to travel far from home. Staycations tend to be affordable ways to spend time together for those who perhaps do not have the budget to travel domestically or internationally, or those who simply prefer the convenience of remaining nearby.

A break from meal planning and preparation is part of the allure of traditional vacations. But just because you’re choosing a staycation does not mean that you need to forgo the respite from cooking nightly meals. In fact, staycations can be ideal times to explore the various dining opportunities your local community offers — even providing a way to “tour the world” through global cuisine.

Many small towns and cities boast various types of restaurants offering a wide array of foods from countries around the world. The following are tips for maximizing your staycation dining experience.

Plot your map

Make a list of the types of cuisines you want to sample based on regions of the world and match them to nearby recommended restaurants. Your culinary tour can be narrowed down to a specific geographical region, such as Germany, or broadened depending on the restaurants in the area.

Learn about the culture

Do a little research into what comprises the

Explore the various local Santa Clarita Valley restaurants that are open and offering special deals by visiting The Signal’s Businesses Open website at signalscv.com/covid19-businesses. menu of certain cultures so that you can select truly traditional dishes rather than Americanized versions. This brief history lesson also may offer insight into particular traditions behind food preparation methods.

Use their expertise

Ask the chef or restaurant staff to make their recommendations on what you should try for authentic dishes. Many restaurants are anxious to share information and put together a tasting menu, even if it isn’t on the main menu.

Support local businesses

An added benefit of this hometown global cuisine tour is that you will be keeping money in the community by supporting local businesses. Encourage others to do their own restaurant tours by recommending certain establishments and sharing positive experiences on social media.

Dining out is a key component of vacations and travel. Staycations also can incorporate a tour of culinary delights without having to stray far from home.

Comfort Foods made Fast and Healthy!

American Cheese Meatloaf, Layered BLT Salad Layered BLT Salad

By Healthy Exchanges

H

I took most men’s much-loved sandwich, the BLT, and transformed it into something that tasted great but didn’t come between two slices of bread!

4 cups finely shredded lettuce 1 1/2 cups chopped fresh tomatoes 1/4 cup purchased bacon bits 4 slices reduced-calorie white bread, toasted and cubed 1/2 cup shredded reduced-fat Cheddar cheese 1/2 cup fat-free Thousand Island dressing 1/4 cup fat-free mayonnaise 1 teaspoon dried parsley flakes

ere is a wonderful new version of one of our favorite comfort foods to try. We predict that it will become a favorite in your

family too.

American Cheese Meatloaf 16 1 1 1/4 1 1 1 1/8 3

ounces extra-lean ground turkey or beef cup plus 1 tablespoon dried fine breadcrumbs cup finely chopped onion cup finely chopped green bell pepper (10 3/4-ounce) can reduced-fat tomato soup teaspoon prepared yellow mustard teaspoon dried parsley flakes teaspoon black pepper (3/4-ounce) slices reduced-fat American cheese

1. Heat oven to 350 F. Spray a 9-by-5-inch loaf pan with butter-flavored cooking spray.

2. In a large bowl, combine meat, breadcrumbs, onion, green pepper and 1/3 cup tomato soup.

Mix well to combine. Pat mixture into prepared loaf pan. Bake for 45 minutes.

3. Stir mustard, parsley flakes and black pepper into remaining tomato soup. Spread soup

mixture evenly over partially baked meatloaf.

Evenly arrange cheese slices over top. Bake for an additional 15 minutes or until meatloaf is cooked through and cheese is melted.

4. Place loaf pan on a wire rack and let set for 5 minutes. Cut into 6 servings. Freezes well. * Each serving equals: 200 calories, 8g fat, 17g protein, 15g carb., 484mg sodium, 1g fiber; Diabetic Exchanges: 2 Meat, 1 Starch.

In an 8-by-8-inch dish, layer lettuce, tomatoes, bacon bits, toast cubes and Cheddar cheese. In a small bowl, combine Thousand Island dressing, mayonnaise and parsley flakes. Spread dressing mixture evenly over top. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Divide into 4 servings. * Each serving equals: About 175 calories, 3g fat, 10g protein, 27g carb., 684mg sodium, 2g fiber; Diabetic Exchanges: 1 Starch, 1 1/2 Vegetable, 1/2 Meat. © 2020 King Features Syndicate, Inc.

M AY 31, 2020

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 1 5

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

‘The Lovebirds,’ ‘Scoob!’ are available online

By Richard Roeper Signal Contributing Writer

‘Scoob!’

Rated PG. Running time: 94 minutes.

S

cooby Dooby Doo, where are you?

Answer: At home with the rest of us.

The Warner Bros. Pictures computeranimated feature-length film “Scoob!” that is based on the quartet of crime-solving teenagers known as Mystery Inc. and that goofy, lovable anthropomorphic Great Dane, was scheduled for a May 15 theatrical release, but due to the COVID-19 pandemic, it’s available for a 48-hour rental for $19.99, or digital ownership for $24.99.

You might experience a little sticker shock at that price, but if a family of four attended a theatrical showing, it certainly would cost more than that.

Kudos to the marketing and PR folks for creating ancillary events to keep homebound families entertained, including a Twitter premiere event featuring voice stars from the movie such as Mark Wahlberg and Gina Rodriguez, and a website featuring all sorts of games and puzzles and recipes and mazes. The only problem is, the movie as a movie ain’t much of a movie. It’s a breezy but noisy and uninvolving sci-fi comedy romp, filled with ho-hum action sequences.

“Scoob!” starts with an origins story prologue, in which we learn how a lonely boy named Shaggy Rogers came to be best friends with a lost Great Dane pup Shaggy christens Scooby-Doo. Cut to about a decade later, with the teenager Shaggy (Will Forte) hanging out with his crime-fighting friends: Velma (Gina Rodriguez), Fred (Zac Efron), Daphne (Amanda Seyfried) and of course Scooby (the venerable Frank Welker, who voiced Fred in the original “Scooby” cartoon and has been Scooby in a number of projects since the early 2000s).

One day the gang receives a visit from one Simon Cowell. That’s right: We get an animated version of Simon Cowell, complete with the snarky voice and the open shirt and even cartoon chest hair, eeeeesh.

Shaggy and Scooby try to impress Simon by dueting on “Shallow,” but Simon isn’t looking for the next American Idol. He’s considering investing in the gang’s Mystery Inc., but he’s passing because Shaggy and Scooby are too unreliable. Wait, what?

The main adventure, such as it is, involves the veteran Hanna-Barbera villain Dick Dastardly (Jason Isaacs), who will stop at nothing to obtain the Precious, I mean the Infinity Stones, I mean the Maltese Falcon, I mean three skulls, which will unlock the door to a legendary treasure. Dastardly’s dastardly mission puts the gang in peril, even as they team up with the fledgling and rather dim superhero Blue Falcon (Mark Wahlberg), who has inherited his father’s mantle but little of his bravery.

“Scoob!” is filled with pop culture references aimed for the parents, from Blue Falcon using the same entrance music as the Michael Jordan Bulls to

PHOTO COURTESY IMDB

Velma noting Dastardly is such a bad guy, “he’s been stealing from his mother’s Netflix account,” to someone mentioning Middle-earth,” to the following line, and I’m not kidding: “Brian, last time you listened to someone on the internet, you thought Tinder was an app that delivered firewood!”

The occasionally clever dialogue and the peppy voice performances are the best things about “Scoob!” but they’re not nearly enough to overcome the loud and convoluted overall tone. My favorite line is when an apathetic clerk at a bowling alley is asked to describe Shaggy and says the kid sounded “almost as though he was some middle-aged man’s idea of how a teenager talks.” Exactly.

‘The Lovebirds’ (2020)

Rated R. Running time: 87 minutes.

I

n the 2010 dark slapstick comedy “Date Night,” Steve Carrell and Tina Fey played a couple whose plans for a romantic evening go spectacularly wrong when they get entangled in all sorts of dangerous criminal activity, through no fault of their own.

Meet “The Lovebirds.” Kumail Nanjiani and Issa Rae play a couple whose plans to attend a dinner party go spectacularly wrong when …

Well. You know the drill.

Originally slated for a spring theatrical release before COVID-19, “The Lovebirds” is now coming

Kumail Nanjiani and Issa Rae in “The Lovebirds” (2020). © SKIP BOLEN/NETFLIX

straight to Netflix, and while it breaks zero ground in the originality and freshness department, it’s a wickedly funny and quite goofy comedy.

Thanks to the sure-handed, fast-paced work and creative framing by director Michael Showalter, a clever screenplay by Aaron Abrams and Brendan Gall, and the impeccable comedic timing of Nanjiani and Rae, “The Lovebirds” is one of the funniest movies of 2020.

In the opening moments, we meet Nanjiani’s Jibran and Rae’s Leilani as they’re falling in love and they’re in that zone where they’re just mesmerized by each other. “You’re unbelievable,” Jibran says to Leilani, his eyes sparkling with adoration.

Cut to four years later. “You’re unbelievable!”

Jibran says to Leilani, but he says it with utter annoyance. They’re in the middle of one of those stupid arguments that’s not really about the subject at hand, which in this case is whether they’d win if they were contestants on “The Amazing Race.”

Every little thing Leilani says and does is like an emotional paper cut to Jibran, and vice versa.

They’re in the car on the way to a friend’s house for dinner when they say at the same time: “This isn’t working” and agree to end it.

And that’s when the car slams into a guy on a bicycle, and the guy scrambles to his feet and pedals away, and a man claiming to be a cop commandeers the car and says Bicycle Guy is a criminal, and the chase is on, and a few moments later, Bicycle Guy is dead, the so-called cop has fled the scene, and eyewitnesses are sure Jibran and Leilani have deliberately run over Bicycle Guy. A young Caucasian woman dials 911 and gives a description of the suspects: “She just happens to be African American, he just happens to be a person of color, but I don’t think they’re murderers because they’re minorities. I think they’re murderers because they literally just killed a guy.” HA. All Jibran and Leilani have to do is explain to the authorities what really happened — but if they did that, we wouldn’t have a movie, so they go on the lam and take it upon themselves to solve the case, whatever the case is.

Remember: Jibran and Leilani had just broken up when they were thrust together on this perilous journey, where they have no one but each other to lean on as find themselves bluffing their way through one dangerous encounter after another.

And just when we think “Lovebirds” can’t get any more bat-bleep crazy, our estranged-but-still-together couple enter a secret and mysterious “Eyes Wide Shut” world, complete with masks and orgies.

Just in case we didn’t figure out Jibran and Leilani have become immersed in a real-life and quite deadly version of “The Amazing Race,” Leilani notes, “This is like ‘The Amazing Race,’ but with dead people.” That’s it. That’s the elevator pitch for this movie.

Copyright 2020 Chicago Sun-Times

16 · S U N D AYS I G N A L

M AY 31, 2020

HOME

Considerations when designing a home fitness room

P

eople exercise for many different reasons. Exercise can improve one’s appearance, reduce the risk for illness, alleviate stress or anxiety, and even help pass some time.

Exercise is often a social activity, but in the wake of social distancing guidelines issue in response to the COVID-19 outbreak, many people have found themselves looking for ways to exercise at home.

Building a home fitness room has never been a more timely project, and such a project can continue to provide rewards even when life returns to some semblance of normalcy.

Here’s how to successfully stock a home gym.

Find a dedicated space A home gym will be limited by the amount of space that can be devoted to workouts. Possible fitness room locations include a spare bedroom, a garage, a basement or an enclosed patio. Measure the space so you can pick and choose equipment that will fit. Leave some floor space empty for movement exercises or mat activities.

Keep the space bright Darkness can sap energy levels, so invest in mirrors and adequate overhead lighting to make the space inviting. Natural light can make the exercise area more enjoyable.

Consider the flooring New flooring can protect against damage and make an area more conductive to working out. Rubber mats can offset echoes and reduce the noise of running on a treadmill or setting down heavy weights.

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Use space-saving equipment A home gym space will likely not be as expansive as the space inside a traditional fitness center. Thankfully, many activities do not require a lot of space or equipment.

Classic exercises like squats, lunges, push ups, and sit ups require little gear but still produce results. Figure

out which equipment you like the most and invest in two or three key pieces.

Dumbells of various weights, a medicine ball and a yoga mat can be all you need to create a versatile, effective workout. A TRX system and a door-mounted pull-up bar also are great space-saving options.

Have a TV hookup A home gym may benefit from a smart TV that you can use to stream workout videos or catch up on the latest news while running the treadmill or using the stationary bike.

A home gym is beneficial yearround, and can be especially valuable when social distancing guidelines are put in place. (MC)

Other items to think about when outfitting a home gym

Y

ou’ve got your home gym all prepared. Now what?

The following are some additional items to consider when outfitting a home gym.

Barbells Barbells aren’t just for biceps. Barbells can be used to work all the major muscle groups, including arms, chest, shoulders, legs and back.

Purchase a set of barbells of various weights so workouts can be varied depending on the muscle group being targeted.

Bench, bar and plates A bench, bar and plates also can be invaluable to those who want a home gym that resembles a fitness facility.

Purchase plates of various weights

but remember to be cautious with the amount of weight being lifted when there is no partner or spotter present. When shopping for a bench, look for one that can incline and decline, which increases the range of exercises you can perform at home.

Cardiovascular equipment Don’t try to reinvent the wheel when purchasing cardiovascular equipment for a home gym. If a treadmill worked for you at the gym, purchase one for your home gym as well.

Cardio equipment can be expensive, but you may be able to find fully functional secondhand equipment online. If you currently have a gym membership, speak with the owner about purchasing a used item directly from the facility.

Outfitting a home gym requires careful consideration to your workout preferences so you can tailor you gym to your specific needs.

Land line If the gym will be in an area of the home where access to a mobile network is unreliable, the presence of a land line in the room can help in the case of emergencies.

Those who work out at home will be doing so without gym staff or other fitness enthusiasts nearby, so the land line can be invaluable should someone suffer an injury when exercising alone.

If possible, place the land line in the middle of the room so it’s not too far away from any particular area. (MC)

M AY 31, 2020

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 1 7

SENIORLIVING

When communication becomes difficult

SOFT OPENING ON MAY 26TH, 2020 WE’VE MISSED

YOU!

Your comfort and safety are our top priority, and we are continuing to follow LA County guidelines as well as practice the following measures to ensure everyone’s well-being.

Temporary Hour Adjustments: Our OFFICE will be open Monday through Friday from 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM. Procedure protocol will be changing for everyone’s safety.

Aphasia can make it difficult for people to speak, read and write.

T

rouble communicating with others can be a symptom of various disorders.

Difficulty conveying words or emotions can be a condition of autism spectrum disorder, but quite frequently it occurs when a neurological injury affects the portion of the brain responsible for language.

Comprehension impairment

The National Aphasia Association states that aphasia is an impairment of language that affects the comprehension or the production of speech as well as the ability to read and write.

Aphasia results from an injury to the brain, including head trauma, brain tumors, infections, and stroke.

The Cleveland Clinic notes a person with aphasia may experience difficulty speaking, writing, reading and understanding language. Impairments can range from mild to very severe. While aphasia may only affect one area of communication, usually limitations occur across many areas.

Common symptoms

One of the more common symptoms of aphasia is word-finding issues. This can be characterized by challenges remembering the names of people, events or things. Sometimes an individual may not be able to think of the word he or she wants to say. In other instances, that person may say the wrong word entire-

ly, such as using “rope” for the word “ball.”

The American Speech-LanguageHearing Association also states that it is common for someone with aphasia to switch sounds in words, like “wishdasher” for “dishwasher.”

Trouble communicating also extends to a person with aphasia having challenges understanding what others are saying, particularly when they speak fast or in long sentences. The situation may be exacerbated when it is noisy or a person is in a group setting.

Aphasia can affect anyone. However, it is more common in those who are middle-aged and older. The NAA says roughly 180,000 people are diagnosed with aphasia each year.

RE-OPENING SAFETY GUIDELINES •

•

Speech therapy

People with aphasia can benefit from working with a speech-language pathologist as early as possible. This professional can present many strategies to help manage deficits or potentially return some measure of communication.

Augmentative and alternative communication, such as using images or a computer to tell what a person wants, may be options in more severe cases of aphasia.

Aphasia affects many people and can rob them of the ability to communicate effectively without intervention. (MC)

•

Our staff continues to practice consistent and frequent handwashing and sanitizing of all surfaces. All personnel wear masks.

Waiting room capacity is small, so for the time being it will remain closed for sitting and our doors will remain locked until we know and can keep safety for everyone.

In addition to screenings via phone, we temperature screen all patients at the front desk. Anyone who is found to have an elevated temperature, even a low fever, or exhibits symptoms of viral illness such as congestion or coughing will be asked to return home and rescheduling will be arranged.

For additional guidelines and to schedule an appointment please call our office at 661.200.9470

scvadvancedaudiology.com 661.200.9470 23822 VALENCIA BLVD. | SUITE 103 | VALENCIA

18 · S U N D AYS I G N A L

M AY 31, 2020

GARDENING

Perennial gardening is good for health and beauty

G

ardening is an engaging hobby that can provide a host of benefits, some of which may surprise even the most devoted gardeners.

For example, the Harvard Medical School notes that just 30 minutes of gardening activities burns 135 calories, making gardening a fun and simple way to incorporate more exercise into your daily routine.

In addition, scientists have long proven that gardening releases the hormones serotonin and dopamine in the brain, each of which are associated with improved mood.

Perennial gardens can be attractive to seasoned gardeners and novices, alike. Perennials are plants that come back year after year, and committing to a perennial garden can ensure people stick with gardening for the long haul, reaping all of the rewards that come with making such a commitment.

Before planting a perennial garden,

those new to gardening may want to consider these three tips.

Make a plan

A perennial garden comes back year after year, which means any mistakes you make when planting are likely to haunt you year after year as well. Factors like space and location must be considered before planting. Many gardeners utilize garden planning applications like GrowVeg to make the process of planning a garden simpler and more organized.

Such applications can be especially useful for novices.

Consider aesthetics

Gardens can be awe-inspiring, especially when gardeners consider aesthetics prior to planting. The DIY Network advises gardeners to consider scale before choosing which perennials to plant. Tall plants and wide beds tend to look best outside large homes, while short plants in small beds tend to look better outside small homes.

Local garden centers can be excellent resources for gardeners planting perennial gardens for the first time.

Work with a professional

Local garden centers can be excellent resources when planning perennial gardens. Representatives at such businesses can offer tips on native plants, which will be more likely to thrive year after year than non-natives. Such representatives also can help you choose the right plants based on the amount of sunlight the

plants will likely get after being planted. Each of these factors can be easily overlooked by people without much gardening experience.

Perennial gardens can provide years of joy and inspiration, especially when gardeners give ample attention to certain details prior to planting.

Dahlias grow best in a sunny location with rich, well-drained soil. The tubers of taller dahlia types need to be 3 to 4 inches deep in the soil, and about 20 inches apart. Plant shorter types 2 to 3 inches deep and about 10 inches apart.

Water dahlias often during dry spells to keep soil damp, and mulch around them to help conserve moisture. Feed dahlia tubers weekly with a low-nitrogen liquid fertilizer, then after sprouting, and then every 3 to 4 weeks from mid-summer until early autumn. — Brenda Weaver Source: www.almanac.com, www.bhg.com Š 2020 King Features Syndicate, Inc.

M AY 31, 2020

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 1 9

PETS

Stuck inside? Six fun activities for you and your pet

I

t’s no secret that pets provide love, loyalty and affection. This is even more apparent now that you’re spending more time at home with them.

In fact, according to the 2020 Purina Pet Ownership Survey, 94% of pet owners rely on their pet for emotional support, which is particularly important during times of uncertainty.

You may be tempted to spend your time snuggling with your furry friend, but there are a lot of fun new things you can do to engage your pet mentally and physically while you are at home together. Now is a great time to integrate enrichment activities that will keep both of you healthy, happy and engaged.

“Setting and keeping a daily pet care routine to feed and walk your pet is important in alleviating stress for your pet. But scheduling play and incorporating enrichment activities into your pet’s day can also do wonders in keeping them happy and healthy,” says Alex Johnson, senior designer & pet enrichment specialist at Purina.

Johnson shares her favorite athome pet enrichment tips and ideas.

Making it new

It is important to expand your pet’s world by providing opportunities for exploration. Try creating temporary indoor spaces to explore with boxes and paper bags or closing off a bedroom for a week to give your pet a space to rediscover.

Hide some treats or favorite toys in the room before reopening it. Remember to keep toys in rotation to help create newness.

Treat time

While at home all day, it can become difficult to track when your pet gets a snack, so try adding a treat time to your schedule.

Keep in mind, pets should get no more than 10% of their daily calories from treats. If you have kids, let them earn the reward of treat-

ing the pet that day by cleaning their room or finishing homework early.

One-on-one time

Having everyone constantly at home together can be stressful for pets. Provide opportunities for pets to have time on their own in addition to one-on-one time with family members. Spending 15 minutes together in a quiet space with no distractions can allow you to focus on engaging and bonding with your pet.

Exercise

When stuck inside, it’s important to find indoor activities to help pets burn energy. Try tug toys, laser pointer play, or playing tag or hide and seek. If you live in an apartment building, try throwing toys up or down steps in the stairwells or down hallways (if your landlord permits).

If you’re spending more time watching TV, consider keeping a drawer or basket close by with some of your pet’s favorite toys, feather wands, tug-toys, balls, lasers, cat dancers, mechanical toys and stuffed animals. These toys allow you to interact with your pet from the comfort of the couch.

Box of invisibility

Providing pets with safe spaces is a great way to give them some downtime while still being close to everyone. For example, set out a box or sign in the family room, and when the cat is in the box or the dog is in the designated area, have the whole family pretend you can’t “see” them, as if they were invisible. If the rule is followed, your pet will learn they can

Play the “Box of Invisibility” game with your cat. When they climb into a box, pretend that you can’t “see” them. An empty box also provides a hiding place for cats when they need some down time. (MC)

enjoy downtime in these spaces.

Sensory spot

If you have a cat, you know they love exploring textures and smells.

Try getting a box or basket just as big as your cat loosely curled up, and place it in an out-of-the-way area, preferably near a safe heat source,

vent or sunny window. Each week, try putting in a new material such as a worn T-shirt, packaging paper or bits of textured fabric for them to explore.

To learn more about how to keep pets happy and healthy during quarantine, visit www.purina.com/ homewithpets. (BPT)

20 · S U N D AYS I G N A L

M AY 31, 2020

FINANCE

Creating a household budget with staying power

T

hese uncertain times are forcing more people to reexamine finances and rewrite their household

budgets.

According to the Pew Research Center in a survey conducted soon after the COVID-19 crisis began, 33% of Americans either lost their jobs or suffered a pay cut or reduction in work hours. Plus, 49% said the outbreak is a major threat to their personal finances.

Regardless of your situation, examining your budget and making some changes can save money and make your financial future more secure. Here are four ways to budget wisely.

Calculate the bottom line

Figure out your baseline income.

Then, categorize expenses by what you need to maintain your standard of living, such as a mortgage, utilities, groceries and insurance.

Another category should include non-essential expenses. Determine if you also want to set aside money for savings, retirement plans or college tuition. And, experts advise setting aside at least three to six months of expenses for emergencies. Once you have these numbers, you can calculate what you’ll need on a monthly basis.

Eliminate or reduce nice-to-haves

If your expenses are still too high, or you want to save more, take another look at discretionary spending and find ways to cut.

One easy way to save is to cancel premium TV channels, switch to a basic package or even sign up for a streaming service instead, such as Sling, Netflix or Hulu.

You can also drop your DVR option to save on the monthly bill. Digitally streaming or downloading content from your local library is another entertainment option too — everything

from movies, music and magazines is available at no charge.

Find ways to save on the must-haves

Everyone needs insurance and many companies offer discounts if you buy both auto and home insurance together. You can also look for unique programs to control expenses.

For example, Erie Insurance offers a program called ERIE Rate Lock that takes away the worry of having car insurance premiums rise with inflation. Instead, unless you move, get a different car or change drivers, you’ll pay the same amount every year, even if you have a claim.

Erie Insurance also announced immediate financial relief for auto customers impacted by the pandemic. Other ways to save include taking advantage of credit card rewards and cash back apps, and making sure to use them.

And if you’re overwhelmed by

keeping things organized, there are free services online to track your loyalty program points, including airline miles.

Consider at-home side gigs

Many are supplementing their income without leaving the safety of their living room. In fact, nearly half of working Americans have a gig outside their primary job, according to Bankrate. But before applying for a remote job, always check with the Better Business Bureau to make sure the company is legit. Depending on your skills, there are a variety of online jobs you could do, such as customer service, copywriting or online tutoring.

By tracking and cutting expenses, taking advantage of discounts and special savings programs, and perhaps even earning extra money on the side, you’ll be on your way to having a household budget with staying power. (SPT)

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MAY 31, 2020

Opinion

S U N D AY S I G N A L · 2 1

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

A Fear for America The coronavirus: This 79- and soon-to-be 80-year-old second-generation Californian is afraid that those who can’t handle, and go berserk when they see people wearing the wrong hat, may someday govern our nation — the land that I love, America.

Today in America, senators, congressmen, our leaders, act like modern-day Benedict Arnolds and spread lies, fear and hatred across our nation. They are attacking members of the Supreme Court and hoping to destroy the “law of the land,” the Constitution. It will not be the fault of the coronavirus if we lose our way of life.

Today in America, the Lord and our Constitution are under attack. God’s people are met with bitterness, rage and anger. Americans who believe in, and honor, the Constitution — the Preamble (“We the People”), the Bill of Rights (freedom of speech, the right to assemble, freedom of religion, the right to bear arms) — are met with brawling, slander and every form of malice.

Today in America, we no longer hear, “I don’t agree with what you are saying, but I will defend with my life your right to say it.”

Today in America, no longer is the teaching of Christianity allowed to be taught to our children in public schools, and woe be to you if in public you praise God, reveal your true feelings or say what you are really thinking.

Is this Christian, this true American, afraid? Yes, I am afraid. I am scared for us, our country, America. God bless the president of the United States, and we the people, your people, your land, America.

Jim Curtis Saugus

Political Hits Are a Waste I was pleased to read Tim Whyte’s column on Saturday, May 16. My thoughts exactly. “No longer is it sufficient to just have an honest discussion of the issues...” I recycled way too many fliers from my mailbox from both sides pointing out flaws in their opponent rather than positive arguments.

Besides the nuisance repetition, what a waste of paper and money!

Sharolynn Fullmer Santa Clarita Submit a Letter to the Editor

Include name, address & phone; Anonymous letters are not printed; Email: letters@signalscv.com. Mail to: Letters to the Editor, The Signal, 26330 Diamond Place, Ste. 100, Santa Clarita, CA 91350.

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

Abdicating Anger Helps the Soul

By David Hegg

G

et ready. Here’s a question you may never have been asked. How would your life be better if you decided to abdicate anger, if you chose to be unoffendable, and if you determined that anger and all its siblings would no longer play a role in your life?

I know. Like me when that question was asked in Brant Hansen’s brilliant little book “Unoffendable,” I immediately started building a case for how good and helpful and necessary anger can be. But, even if there is a place for anger, can we all admit it is a teeny tiny place to which we should only go if our anger can be completely righteous and produce only good ends? And even then, do we really need anger? I’ve come to understand the answer is no.

I continue to be amazed at how easily anger flashes out in our society. It has ceased to be a carefully caged emotion and now is considered a right, and even more, a necessary reaction to anything we find uncomfortable, irritating, or contrary to our perfect personal opinions. Enumerating all the ways we’ve been offended has become our national pastime with anger being the expected and – weirdly! – accepted way to demean and demolish the offenders. You know this is true, and you’ve probably joined the game.

But let me ask this: Are we better off as a nation, as a people, as neighbors, as families? Nope.

Since anger has become acceptable, even laudable, we’ve become less tolerant, hyper-sensitive, and consequently, persistently offended. Take a look at us. Too often we are emotionally indistinguishable from a group of third graders. Here’s why we all should abdicate anger.

First, just admit that anger is a highly contagious relational virus. Simply put, anger produces anger in its targets. It may be an angry return volley, or the carefully hidden seething resentment, but it’s there. And at some point, it will explode out into the world, spreading even more of its deadly toxin. It hit me the other day that we spend billions tracing the COVID-19 virus but increasingly put up with the spread of anger that is killing our relationships and social discourse.

Second, anger is so dangerous because it is so deceitful in several ways. First, it deceives those who use it into thinking they are more and more right. Have you ever noticed how arguments polarize and rationalize until the two sides are

irrationally obstinate? The angrier we get, the more we are determined to crush our opponent and win at all costs. Anger also deceives us into believing everyone else is culpable except us. Their failings are monumental, ours are non-existent. And most of all, anger deceives us into thinking it actually works. How foolish is it to believe anger can solve problems, create mutual understanding, and bring about peace?

So, why are we more and more giving anger a leading role in our lives? The answer is extremely complex, but the solution is simple. Abdicate it.

Give it up. Refuse to be offendable. Stop seeing every situation, every irritation, and every inconvenience as being about you. Start realizing you are guilty of the very things you get angry about in others.

You know that driver who cut you off? You’ve done that more times than you remember. You know that co-worker who never thinks about other people? She thinks the same thing about you and with good reason. And remember that pushy, impatient customer, and that self-centered blowhard in your club? Guess what? You don’t know what else is buried in their lives that has made them the way they are, but you do know that anger and resentment and those ugly thoughts you bear toward them will never, ever make things better. They’ll only continue to erode the parts of your soul that are meant to make life better.

James, the half-brother of Jesus and leader of the church in Jerusalem of the first century, put it this way: “Know this, my beloved brothers: let every person be quick to hear, slow to speak, slow to anger; for the anger of man does not produce the righteousness of God” (James 1:19,20).

Someone has said anger is an acid that eats its container. I say, let’s evict it. Let’s refuse to allow anger to rent any more space in our hearts and minds. Let’s become unoffendable, first for our own sake, and then for the sake of those we love, and the society we need.

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

BRAINGAMES

22 · S U N D AYS I G N A L

M AY 31, 2020

Relax Give your mind a workout with these brainy exercises!

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M AY 31, 2020

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 2 3

CROSSWORD TIME

ANSWERS

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