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J U N E 6, 2021

TABLE OF CONTENTS NEWS FEATURES

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FROM THE MAYOR

4 House plants’ popularity blooms 5 Staying physically, mentally healthy for reopening 8 SCV groups spread awareness on social media 7 June is National Camp Month 9 Old Town Newhall is back and open for business

ENTERTAINMENT 10 1 0 ‘A Quiet Place, Part II’ and ‘Marvel’s M.O.D.O.K’ 12 Queen Nation at The Canyon

FOOD 11

Helpful advice on life and business

11 Creamy, cool desserts to melt the summer heat

HOME 14 14 Ways to use brick and stone to enhance your home

FINANCE 15 15 How to find help with financial planning

GARDENING 16 16 Turn your backyard into your sanctuary

SENIOR LIVING

17 Exercises for seniors

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

“BEST OF” BALLOT 18 TECHNOLOGY 20 20 Audiobooks for book lovers

HEALTH 21 21 Skin care tips as we enter summer

BEAUTY 22 22 Preventing damaged, brassy summer hair

PETS 23 23 Protecting your pets in the hot summer weather

KIDS & FAMILY

2 4 Donna’s Day: ‘Pizza Puzzle’ helps get chores done Junior Whirl • Animal Fact

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

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J U N E 6, 2021

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 5

N E W S F E AT U R E

House plants’ popularity blooms in pandemic By Raychel Stewart Signal Staff Writer

s stay-at-home orders kept people indoors for most of 2020, people found themselves looking for hobbies as the COVID-19 pandemic shut down leisure activities. Along with an increase in pet adoption and at-home workout equipment, house plant sales soared as people looked for new ways to keep busy. Although it may seem easy to care for plants, different breeds require different care, water and sunlight, said James Green, manager at Green Landscape Nursery in Santa Clarita, which saw a 75% increase of houseplant sales since the start of the pandemic. “We had to constantly be restocking and ordering new plants,” he said, “because they were being sold so quicky.”

Getting started

“There are four or five really solid starter plants people can buy,” he added. “You want to start with plants that are forgiving in case you forget to water it for a while. Once someone gets into the habit of caring for a houseplant, then they can move on to others. But in the beginning, it can be easy to forget.” The most popular starter plants are the snake plant and ZZ plant, Green

esides the obvious aesthetic benefits, house plants have a few other advantages:

Help with allergies Leaves and other parts of the plants serve as natural filters, catching airborne particles and allergens. Plants with textured leaves might be especially effective at trapping particles. Put more oxygen into the air Plants absorb carbon dioxide and then release oxygen. Plants can put much more oxygen into the air, improving indoor conditions. Increase humidity, reduce illness Studies show indoor plants can increase humidity in indoor spaces, which decreases the incidences of

said, since both plants can survive in any type of light, including no light, and don’t require frequent watering. He added both plants have a small root system, allowing them to soak up a large amount of water over a period of time, then drying out until they’re watered again. Porthos, specifically the golden porthos, is another popular and recommended plant for beginner since it is known as the “forgiving plant,” Green said. The plant is usually potted in a hanging pot, but can also be planted in a regular pot to put on a shelf or can be placed on a countertop to give the space a tropical touch. For those who would want a floral plant, the peace lily is a good choice for someone who doesn’t have a routine for watering plants, Green said. He added the leaves on the plant will hang low when water is needed, but will quickly perk up, and the flowers on the plant are long-lasting.

Pro tips for plant care

“Do research on the specific plant you buy,” Green said. “Signs of over or under watering for one plant will differ from another, so it’s best to look into the plant you have or take it into a professional to get advice.” Green added another tip, saying he frequently sees people transferring house plants to large pots before they are ready which can lead to plants sore throats, dry coughs, dry skin, and the common cold. Higher absolute humidity can decrease the chances of survival and transmission of the flu virus. Filter the air Plants may help filter out VOCs like benzene, acetone and formaldehyde, which can enter indoor air via cleaning supplies, dry-cleaned clothes, furniture, printers, and paints. Can improve mood Growing and caring for plants can alleviate everyday stress. A nationwide study from UK Magazine Gardeners World found 80 percent of gardeners declared themselves satisfied with life compared to 67% of non-gardeners. 

Manager James Green displays a variety of indoor plants choices for beginners at Green Landscape Nursery in Santa Clarita. PHOTO BY DAN WATSON / THE SIGNAL

wilting. He also added using an organic fertilizer for any type of house plant, but warned that having fertilizer that is continuously wet can attract fungus gnats, which aren’t harmful to people, pets or plants, but can be infuriating to deal with. “Always check after about 30 minutes after watering,” said Sandy Cudmore, nurseryman and buyer for the Green Thumb Nursery in Newhall. “If water is sitting in the saucer, clean it out. Soil that stays too wet deprives the plant of oxygen and can encourage gnats.” For those with pets, picking pet-friendly plants should be a high priority, according to Cudmore. Plants that are easy to care for and are also pet friendly are the money tree and pachira aquatica. “You can go away for two weeks and they won’t need to be watered. They’re pet safe, not picky about the light and not known to get many pests,” Cudmore said.

Space and light

Available light in a home should also be considered before buying a houseplant as some plants require more or less light than others. For open places which have a lot of sunlight, Cude more recommends ficus lyrata, crotons or anthuriums but also

require to be rotated after watering so each side can absorb sunlight. Plants which require little to no light are sansevierias, money trees and ficus decora, also known as rubber trees. If a bigger plant is desired, Green said dracaena is a good choice that doesn’t take up too much space, as the plant has a slender trunk and can grow up to nine feet tall. “It’s a great plant for the corner of a room,” he added. If an herbal plant is desired, starting with soft-tissue herbs such as basil and cilantro can help people ease into growing edible plants. Green said these plants can survive best in a kitchen window that doesn’t get direct sunlight, but the owner will have to frequently prune the plants, since they grow many tiny branches which can weigh down the stem. “It’s great to collect houseplants because they clean your air and give off oxygen,” Cudmore said. “They’re also good for you mentally because it’s a type of nurturing. During covid, houseplants became very popular and created a lot of communicating and sharing about favorites.” 

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J U N E 6, 2021

N E W S F E AT U R E

Staying physically, mentally healthy for reopening By Perry Smith Sunday Signal Editor Kev Kurdoghlian Signal Staff Writer

o mask or not to mask? That question and many more around staying healthy during a time that appears to be the tail end of the COVID-19 pandemic in California may be on the minds of many people. In May, the state announced the most recent evolution of public health orders keeping Californians safe. Starting June 15, social distancing mandates and capacity restrictions will be a thing of the past. Those who are fully vaccinated can be in public outdoors without a mask, while those who aren’t probably should wear one if in a crowd. As orders change in response to the evolving pandemic conditions, Californians can implement safety best practices to keep themselves and their loved ones out of harm’s way.

Staying Healthy

Dr. Vivek Bhatt is an internal medicine specialist with UCLA Health in Santa Clarita. He said being healthy takes many forms during this time of change “Something that people can definitely still continue to be very cognizant of is hand hygiene, whether it’s with alcohol-based hand sanitizers or washing your hands with soap and water regularly,” Bhatt said. Bhatt said that keeping a hand sanitizer bottle readily accessible like in your pocket or a purse should continue during the initial phases of reopening. “It’s not as socially constricting to sanitize your hands every, every so often.,” Bhatt said, comparing it wearing facemasks. “That’s something that I’ve been telling a lot of my patients to definitely continue doing.” Bhatt said he recommends that patients continue wearing facemasks, even if they are fully vaccinated. “If it’s not something that is too socially burdening for them, a lot of people have gotten used to mask,” he said. “I’ve enjoyed this year of not only not catching COVID, but also not catching the common cold, rhinovirus, getting the flu.” Especially for those who aren’t vaccinated, Bhatt said he recommends they continue to wear facemasks and get vaccinated. “If you’re vaccinated, that will obviously significantly reduce your risk (of getting coronavirus),” Bhatt said. “So, for the person that wants to go back to normal and take off their mask and go back to how life was before, I highly encourage them to be vaccinated.” Being healthy still means taking a preventive health approach that includes maintaining a strong immune system through a healthy diet and sleeping well. “Eating a healthy diet that has the vegetables and

Volunteers Sharon Rendall, left, with therapy dog Charlie and Pat Fellows, holding Angel, attend the National Volunteer Appreciation Week event held at Henry Mayo Newhall Hospital. PHOTO BY DAN WATSON / THE SIGNAL

fruits that you need in every meal would be of utmost importance,” said Bhatt. Healthy habits like a good diet, sleep and staying compliant with any physician-prescribed medications help keep the immune system from becoming suppressed, putting at most risk of acquiring COVID-19 or any viruses. “That happens when you’re stressed for whatever reason, whether it’s from, you know, lack of sleep or job-related stress, stress at home,” Bhatt said, “so I would recommend to definitely focus on your mental health, as well.”

Anxious about re-entry

“When you talk about what’s safe or not, that’s a really big issue — because it’s hard to know when it’s safe or not,” said Larry Schallert, assistant director of the College of the Canyons’ Student Health & Wellness/Mental Health Program. “You really got to take care of yourself, you really have to do the self-care types of things that we’ve been preaching, but you also have to ... if you’re not feeling safe, then you need to do as much social distancing as you feel comfortable with.” Schallert recently gave a workshop “You Are Not Alone!” hosted by the Zonta Club of Santa Clarita Valley, which focused on “the impact of COVID-19 on society and the individual.” The reality is there can be a range of emotions that can be significantly different from person to person based on the individual, and so a person really has to take care of themselves, and make sure they’re doing what’s referred to as “self-care.” “You have to do as much social distancing as you feel comfortable with,” Schallert added, noting if you are feeling anxiety more than usual, there are a number of resources available listed at BeThe-

DifferenceSCV.org, which was organized by local mental health experts from the city, college and Department of Mental Health.

Resources

In terms of reaching out for questions, whether it’s for anxiety, depression or just seeing if there are any tools out there that might help someone feel happier or more comfortable with their mental health, there are a number of affordable ways that people can find help, Schallert added. Samuel Dixon Family Health Center recently expanded its offerings for free and low-cost mental health services, according to Gloria Mercado-Fortine, president of the board for the community health clinic’s organization. Philip Solomon, COO for Samuel Dixon, said the program started with a few licensed social workers part-time and, along with great partnerships through other community services like Child & Family Center, the program has expanded to meet a growing demand. Providers are hopeful that raising awareness of services will help people overcome the stigma. For many, that surrounds getting help, too. “Every year, absolutely (the program) continues to grow, as it becomes more acceptable to speak out about your illness that you may have, or the need that you have for any mental health support,” Solomon said. “We can only see that demand continue to grow.” Learn more about UCLA Health Santa Clarita at uclahealth.org/santa-clarita. College of the Canyons’ Student Health & Wellness/Mental Health Program is online at canyons.edu/studentservices/health. Find Samuel Dixon Family Health Center online at sdfhc. org. 

J U N E 6, 2021

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 7

THINGSTODO

June is National Camp Month and the great outdoors awaits By Michele E. Buttelman Signal Staff Writer

y daughter still talks fondly about the camping trips we took when she was a child. Her favorite trips were the ones we took to the ocean. We camped nearly everywhere — from San Diego to Washington State and points in-between. Camping is the ultimate “family togetherness” experience. It gets the kids outside, into nature and exposes children to “real” world adventures, far from the lure of video games and television. My family camped in a well-used and well-loved tent trailer. Passed down in my husband’s family from father to son, the 1963 Wheelcamper still boasted the handmade curtains crafted by my mother-in-law. The green canvas of the “tent” was sturdy and in good condition into the 1990s. They don’t make things like they used to. We’ve long given the tent trailer to a new family; I hope they are loving it as much as we did.

California coastal camping

Summer is the time for coastal camping. Is there anything more serene than falling asleep to the sound of crashing waves under a canopy of stars? Whether you “rough it” in a tent or post up in a fully equipped RV, you can have the ultimate California beach camping experience year-round. The following sites are all open but many have restrictions. It is best to visit the websites to see what is the latest. Restrictions can change on a daily basis. Dogs (on leashes) are permitted at most parks, but you’ll want to consult the campground website before making a reservation. Also, note that many of these campgrounds are on protected land, so be aware of site-specific rules and regulations designed to preserve the land and native wildlife.

Beach camping

Below are a few coastal camping spots, where you can sleep on, or next to, some of California’s best beaches.

San Elijo State Beach Campground

2050 S. Coast Highway 101, Cardiff Info http://www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=662 Perched on the edge of a towering bluff this sought-after camping spot is home to the Eli Howard Surf School, which offers camps and day lessons. Try to nab a spot on the campground’s west side, where you’ll catch dramatic sunset views and hear waves lapping from your tent or RV (and you’ll be a little farther away from the nearby train crossing).

Kirk Creek Campground

From San Luis Obispo, take Highway 1 north for approximately 60 miles to the campground. Info www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/ 233116

Part of the Los Padres National Forest, this is an ocean-side paradise, with each site overlooking the Pacific Ocean. It offers a variety of opportunities for relaxation and recreation. The campground is located on a bluff overlooking the Pacific Ocean, and is close to a variety of scenic trails. It offers fantastic views of the Big Sur coastline. Visit the website for available campground reservations.

Doran Beach Regional Park

201 Doran Beach Road, Bodega Bay Info http://parks.sonomacounty.ca.gov/Visit/ Doran-Regional-Park/Camping Few campgrounds rival Doran Beach’s proximity to all kinds of ocean fun. You can go swimming, beachcombing, fishing or paddle boarding just steps away from your tent or RV site. Adjacent to a wide, 2-mile stretch of beach that juts into Bodega Bay, the campground includes 120 sites (hookups are not available) and restrooms with flush toilets and coin-op showers. The family-friendly beach is a popular place to walk dogs, search for sand dollars and bird-watch, while the jetty at the mouth of Bodega Harbor is a busy fishing and crabbing spot. Parents with little ones will appreciate the beach’s gentle slope, as well as its soft, clean sand and the generally mellow surf break. Fun fact Bodega Bay is also where Alfred Hitchcock filmed horror movie “The Birds.” Reservations are required. Drop-in and same-day sites are not available.

RV, trailer or tent camping

One of the advantages of a tent trailer is that they

are lightweight. You don’t need a huge vehicle to pull it and it is easy see behind you in the rearview mirror. A tent trailer rolls low to the ground and doesn’t block your view. You can rent an RV to see if you prefer RV camping. RVs are great if you are going to one place and intend to stay for the entire trip. If you want to See CAMPING, page 13

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J U N E 6, 2021

N E W S F E AT U R E

SCV organizations spread awareness on social media By Emily Alvarenga Signal Staff Writer

s you scroll through Instagram, most of the posts you see show friends traveling or on some fun

adventure. Other posts, however, include more than just smiling faces or puppy dogs, instead giving viewers a reason to stop and think. It’s these posts, many of which include information with the goal of spreading awareness on important topics, which are beginning to reach teens on social media. The Child & Family Center is using its Instagram page, the aptly named @fn_ction, to help teens with how to function in a healthy way during a dysfunctional time, according to the page’s organizers, Daniel Moran and Leah Parker, outreach specialists at the Child & Family Center. “We wanted to give (teens) a healthy voice in the mix of all the unhealthy voices that they’re surrounded with in (the) media,” Parker said. “They’re at such a pivotal time in their development where they need something positive, and we wanted to be able to provide that on top of everything else that we do.” The “lightbulb moment” came to Moran and Parker after they realized the agency’s current social media wasn’t reaching the youth population. They wanted to find a way to bridge that gap and talk to them where they are: on social media. Instead of shying away from the important topics, posts range from mental health or sexual assault awareness to substance abuse or domestic violence, as well as trending topics. “(Posts) are usually tailored around our services, but we also like to throw in a lot of inspirational stuff, as well,” Moran added. “There’s a lot of stigma behind these topics too, so we try to provide the information in a very tasteful way … and paint a different picture that doesn’t show the stigmatization behind a lot of the topics.” It’s posts like this that teens respond well to, according to organizers, who say teens typically thank them for being real with them and have nurtured engaging conversations. The page is something Moran said

Outreach specialists Daniel Moran and Leah Parker work on their Family Center Instagram app at the Child & Family Center in Santa Clarita. PHOTO BY DAN WATSON / THE SIGNAL

they hope to use as a tool to build a brand, giving teens the resources they need both online and off, as well as a way to connect with other agencies across the world to create a larger resource network. “The ultimate goal is to just watch this become a very viral place for youth, not only in our valley but throughout the country,” Parker said. “Social media allows us that avenue to be able to take it beyond, so we’re very excited to watch this grow and bring awareness.” And the Child & Family Center isn’t the only one taking to social media as a way to spread awareness. Dr. Neela Sethi of Valencia Pediatrics started posting videos to social media when she began receiving numerous pandemic-related questions from parents, with videos focusing on answering common questions she’s received about COVID-19. While her first video was a simple plea for people to stay home, she soon found herself trying to empower her patients with knowledge, using the platform to help the community,

trying to encourage people to be positive, but also working to put an end to some of the misinformation she’d been seeing, she said. “Social media is not going anywhere, so to have the stance that social media is completely negative and terrible for our teens and that you should just not allow them to have it, is not very realistic,” Sethi said. Instead, Sethi suggests teens find a healthy balance in their relationship with social media, taking it in moderation. Social media allows teens to create online identities, communicate with others, and build social networks, and it’s these networks that ultimately can provide them with valuable support, especially assisting those who feel excluded or have disabilities, said Dr. Daniel Bennett, chief of psychiatry for the Kaiser Permanente Panorama City Medical Center area. That support can include staying up to date with family and friends, which was especially important through the pandemic, or even establishing new friends, Bennett added.

Moreover, social media can be a tool in raising awareness on important issues, while providing emotional support during difficult times, which Bennett and Sethi both said is filling a care gap that has been especially important with the restrictions due to COVID-19. “There is something that comes with the social aspect of social media, hence the name obviously, that has brought joy and connectedness to teens during COVID, and I think that can be celebrated, it just has to be done in the right way,” Sethi said. Social media does have its downfalls, both Bennett and Sethi agreed, as it can cause users to have skewed perspectives, among other issues. “Often, social media can cause a person to feel inadequate about their life or appearance due to manipulated images they are viewing,” Bennett said. “Another issue is the ‘fear of missing out,’ where teenagers feel they are missing out on activities, which can, in turn, impact their self-esteem and trigger anxiety. … Also, through the use of social media platforms, major problems such as cyberbullying and self-absorption exist.” Excessively using social media can lead to increases in anxiety and depression, Sethi added, but each teen is different and should be treated as such when it comes to managing their social media use and speaking with them about how it’ll affect their mental health. “Communicating is the best way for you to find out what’s going on and to see if you can offer help, should you feel like your teen needs it,” Sethi said, adding that one-on-one time is helpful in getting them to open up. “Bottom line: Social media can be a useful tool,” Bennett added, “but certain pitfalls must be recognized and addressed to avoid a further exacerbation of mental health issues.” To view the Child & Family Center’s page, visit instagram.com/fn_ ction. To view Sethi’s videos, visit instagram.com/doctorneela. 

J U N E 6, 2021

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 9

F R O M T H E M AY O R

Old Town Newhall — back and open for business By Bill Miranda Santa Clarita City Mayor

s the oldest neighborhood in Santa Clarita, Newhall has a rich culture and history. From serving as the Santa Clarita Valley’s economic and business center in the late 1800s to becoming the thriving arts and entertainment district it is today, Old Town Newhall has consistently been a vibrant hub for residents and visitors alike. Over the last 15 months, businesses in Santa Clarita, like in many cities throughout the country, have had to make adjustments to their services in order to remain in operation. This has included creating outdoor dining sections, reducing indoor capacity for shoppers and focusing on online and remote services.

However, as Los Angeles County has entered into each new tier in the State of California’s Blueprint for a Safer Economy, operating restrictions have started to ease. In fact, we look forward to a few short days from now when California is expected to reopen fully, and our businesses can safely return to full operations. In Old Town Newhall, that means once again going with family and friends to shop for unique, artisan goods, pick up fresh fruits and veggies from the Old Town Newhall Farmers Market and have dinner at your favorite restaurant. Afterward, you can visit the brandnew Laemmle Newhall at the corner of Railroad Avenue and Lyons Avenue to see the latest foreign, independent and art house films chosen by Greg Laemmle himself. With sunny skies in the forecast, there is no better time than the present to spend a day down in Old

Town Newhall visiting shops and eateries, exploring William S. Hart Park and Veterans Historical Plaza and more. As stage productions at The MAIN and Canyon Theatre Guild return, as well as special events taking place throughout the area, residents will once again be treated to world-class entertainment right here in Santa Clarita. We are not only excited by the prospect of businesses booming in Old Town Newhall once more. The City of Santa Clarita is also embarking upon an update to the Old Town Newhall Specific Plan, which was adopted by the City Council at the end of 2005. The plan established an overall vision for the area in terms of growth, development and revitalization. Since its adoption, the development standards, design standards and other elements of the plan have transformed Old Town Newhall into

a bustling arts and entertainment destination. The Old Town Newhall Specific Plan Update will follow on the great success of the original plan and be completed using ideas and feedback from the community. Please be on the lookout for information from the City regarding upcoming Public Outreach Meetings. Getting back to business is just one step toward enhancing the quality of life in Santa Clarita. I encourage you to participate in the Old Town Newhall Specific Plan Update process and continue to frequent local businesses throughout the City to help our local economy grow stronger than ever. Mayor Bill Miranda is a member of the Santa Clarita City Council and can be reached at bmiranda@santa-clarita.com. The views expressed in his column are those of the City and do not necessarily reflect those of The Signal. 

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J U N E 6, 2021

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

‘A Quiet Place Part II,’ ‘Marvel’s M.O.D.O.K’ worth the look By Richard Roeper Signal Contributing Writer

‘A Quiet Place Part II’

1/2 (out of four) 

Paramount Pictures presents a film written and directed by John Krasinski. Rated PG-13 (for terror, violence and bloody/disturbing images).

e begin at the real beginning, with a cacophony of sounds. The clanging of a bell announcing a new customer entering a pharmacy. Said customer’s boots clomping along the floor. A loud WHOOOSHING noise as the customer tears off a plastic bag by the fruit stand. Cut to a Little League baseball game, with the sounds of bat meeting ball, parents and siblings cheering, friendly banter in the stands. This is Day 1, and these are the final moments of normal, loud, everyday life before the aliens landed and you realized they couldn’t see you but were attracted by any and all sounds, and if they hear you they will surely kill you. Writer-director John Krasinski opens “A Quiet Place Part II” with a brilliantly executed and absolutely terrifying flashback prologue to the day the monsters arrived, wreaking havoc on the world, killing millions and plunging the isolated survivors into a life of silence. It is the perfect scene to immerse us back into the “Quiet Place” universe and it’s the perfect scene to welcome back audiences into theaters — the kind of exhilarating, hold-your-breath, hang-onto-yourpopcorn, scary movie sequence that works so much better with a big screen and surround sound and a crowd than as a home viewing experience. “A Quiet Place Part II” might not carry quite the same innovative wallop as the original, but this is a meticulously crafted, spine-tingling, fantastically choreographed monster movie that expands the canvas, works as a stand-alone story and leaves us wanting more from this franchise. The main story picks up in the immediate aftermath of the events from “A Quiet Place,” with Krasinski’s Lee Abbott gone after sacrificing himself to save his family, and mom Evelyn (Emily Blunt), son Marcus (Noah Jupe) and daughter Regan (Millicent

PHOTO COURTESY IMDB

Simmonds), along with Evelyn’s newborn baby, forced to leave their farm in upstate New York and venture into the deadly quiet unknown. What they find is a bleak, post-apocalyptic landscape, strewn with corpses and skeleton remains and abandoned cars, a world where hope seems to have died. With Evelyn carrying the baby in that disturbing but effective coffinlike crib with an oxygen attachment, the Abbotts are on the run when Marcus’ leg gets caught in a bear trap, and what do you do when your leg is caught in a bear trap? You scream bloody hell. Enter Cillian Murphy’s Emmett, and we knew Emmett was going to be a major player in this story because we see him in the stands at the Little League game in the prologue and it’s clear he’s friends with Lee. But that was a different Emmett from a different time. This Emmett has lost his entire family and is living in an abandoned steel factory he has fashioned into a fortress of sorts, and he tells Evelyn and her family he feels for them but there are not enough supplies, not enough food and water, and they can’t stay for long. As for the outside world, Emmett tells them the people who have managed to stay alive — well, they’re not the kind of people worth saving. With top-tier production values, including Polly Morgan’s rich and textured cinematography, Jess Gonchor’s intricate and claustrophobic production design and the sound department’s pitch-perfect use of noises

ranging from the clinking of bottles to a squawking bird to those hair-raising clickety-click noises coming from the predatory monsters, “A Quiet Place Part II” branches into parallel storylines: one involving Evelyn and Marcus silently teaming up to save the baby and fend off a monster who has invaded Emmett’s place, and the other following Emmett and the hearing-impaired and ever-resourceful Regan as they embark on a perilous mission to reach a boat that can take them to an island that could be a sanctuary from the terror. As was the case with the first film, there are moments when you can’t help but wonder, “Why don’t they try this?” or “How come they never thought of that?” but hey, we could say the same thing about every memorable scary thriller series, from “Jaws” to “Jurassic Park” to “Alien,” and the fact “A Quiet Place” is worthy of being in the same ballpark as those classics tells you this franchise in its first two films is off to a very strong start.

‘Marvel’s M.O.D.O.K.’



A 10-episode series available on Hulu.

t’s not easy being a third-rate supervillain. Case in point: one M.O.D.O.K. (for Mental Organism Designed Only for Killing), a huge-headed, big-brained, tiny-limbed, vainglorious bad guy who has been easily bested by the likes of Iron Man for years, all the while plunging his super-evil headquarters into near-bankruptcy and ignoring the needs of his wife and two children. One minute you’re talking about yourself in the third person and zapping foes with lethal energy beams , the next, you’ve been pushed aside at work by a corporate takeover and you’re separated from your family, living in a crummy studio apartment and trying to put the pieces back together. But hey. At least you’re a brightly colored, Lego-looking, stop-motion animated character voiced by the one and only Patton Oswalt. Filled with quick one-liners and bloody good sight gags, reminiscent of adult-oriented animated series such as “The Simpsons” and “Family Guy” and voiced by an all-star cast of comedic

talents, “M.O.D.O.K.” is sure to please the hardcore Marvel Universe fans. After all, it’s not M.O.D.O.K.’s fault he’s such a M.O.D.O.K. He was born with a giant head and a knack for experimentation. After a prologue from M.O.D.O.K.’s childhood, we zap forward some 35 years, with M.O.D.O.K. leading the rather lame A.I.M. (Advanced Idea Mechanics) organization, which is populated by yellow-suited henchmen who take it as a big “win” when M.O.D.O.K. returns from a battle with Iron Man clutching a souvenir — Iron Man’s actual boot. This bunch is the Detroit Lions of evil organizations. With A.I.M. depleted of funds and about to go out of business, M.O.D.O.K. has no choice but to sign over the reins of the company to the powerful media conglomerate GRUMBL and its scarf-wearing, Silicon Valley-talking, annoyingly cheerful representative Austin Van Der Sleet (Beck Bennett), who is always telling M.O.D.O.K. he’s a legend even as he’s shoving him aside and taking control of the organization. If that’s not bad enough, M.O.D.O.K.’s long-suffering wife, Jodie (Aimee Garcia), a Mexican American author and vlogger, says it’s over between them and M.O.D.O.K. has to move out, much to the dismay of his adolescent son Lou (Ben Schwartz) and much to the indifference of his teenage daughter Melissa (Melissa Fumero), who, like her father, has an enormous head and small limbs and gets about on a hovercraft-type device. “M.O.D.O.K.” alternates between superhero shenanigans, as our title character tries to regain his power, and domestic comedy/drama. Pop culture references to everything from Narnia to “Night Court,” from Hoobastank to “ALF,” are sprinkled throughout the series. Mostly, though, this is a cool-looking, cheerfully dark, oddball adult comedy with great voice work by the brilliant cast and strong writing in every episode. By the time we get to the shocking final episode of the first season, we’re already primed for more “M.O.D.O.K.” 

Creamy, cool desserts to melt the summer heat

J U N E 6, 2021

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 1 1

FOOD

ummer days can be long and boring, especially when the kids are out of school and there is nothing to do around the house as a family. When the minutes creep by and it’s too hot to go outside, the dog days of summer can be pretty miserable. However, this recipe for a Strawberry Cream Cheese Tart can give the kids something to look forward to as a dish the whole family can participate in creating. This recipe is perfect for little ones wanting to get creative and perfectly place fresh strawberries on top of a delicious tart. (Family Features) 

Strawberry Cream Cheese Tart Servings: 8

Crust

1 1/4 cups flour 1/4 cup granulated sugar 1/4 teaspoon salt 1/2 cup cold butter, cut into small cubes 1 large egg 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract uncooked rice

Filling

8 ounces reduced-fat cream cheese

1/4 cup sour cream 2 tablespoons extra-fine sugar 1 tablespoon lemon zest 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract 1/2 cup strawberry fruit spread 3 teaspoons lemon juice (optional) 1 pound strawberries, halved whipped cream (optional) Heat oven to 375 F.

To make crust In food processor, add flour, sugar and salt; pulse until combined. Add butter, egg and vanilla extract; pulse until combined and crumbly. Lightly flour surface then form dough into ball. Slightly flatten to form thick disc. Wrap dough in plastic wrap; refrigerate 1 hour. Flour surface then roll dough to 11-inch circle. Place dough in 9-inch tart pan with removeable bottom. With rolling pin, roll over top to trim excess dough around edges.

To make filling In medium bowl, beat cream cheese, sour cream, sugar, lemon zest and vanilla extract until blended and smooth. Spread cheese mixture evenly over crust. Refrigerate 1 hour.

Cover dough with plastic wrap and freeze until firm, about 30 minutes.

In small bowl, microwave fruit spread and lemon juice, if desired, stirring often.

Press aluminum foil against crust, covering edges to prevent burning. Fill and distribute uncooked rice evenly. Bake 20 minutes. Cool completely.

Arrange strawberry halves around tart. Drizzle heated fruit spread over strawberries. Top with whipped cream, if desired. 

A creamy recipe created for just for families (and friends)

your little ones or for a date night dessert. It’s great to take for an outing at the park, a neighborhood party or just to snack on throughout the week.

Strawberry Mousse Servings: 6-8 1 cup strawberries, halved 2 cups heavy cream 1 cup powdered sugar 1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese, softened assorted fruit, for serving In blender, puree strawberries until smooth. Set aside.

lazy Sunday afternoon cuddled up with family, playing in the rain with your kids and tasting a perfect, sweet treat on a summer day can be some of the simplest yet best parts of life. Recipes that can be made with clean, fresh in-

gredients in a matter of minutes make some of the best-tasting dishes, snacks and treats. Sometimes keeping it simple is the best route to take as opposed to confusing prep that takes too much time. This Strawberry Mousse, which is made with families in mind, is a perfect recipe to make with

In mixing bowl, whip heavy cream and powdered sugar until fluffy. In separate mixing bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth. Add strawberry puree to cream cheese and mix until combined. Add whipped cream and stir until combined. Serve in bowl with fruit.(Culinary.net) 

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J U N E 6, 2021

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

Queen Nation: a tribute to Queen at The Canyon

ueen Nation is the West Coast’s longest running, most authentic, fully costumed re-creation of a vintage Queen concert. The show consists of four musicians who all sing and perform in character and in period costumes while playing live note-for-note renditions of Classic Queen songs. Queen Nation’s live 90-minute

production of Queen’s greatest hits preserves the image, sound and stage persona of vintage Queen. Audiences are amazed at the accuracy of Queen Nation’s live retrospective journey through such songs as “We Will Rock You,” “Bohemian Rhapsody,” We Are The Champions,” “Crazy Little Thing Called Love,” “You’re My Best Friend,” “Another One Bites The Dust,” “Under Pressure” and many more.

Featured front man vocalist Gregory Finsley is an amazing singer with an uncanny tone that matches the late great Freddie Mercury to a tee. He is also a trained concert pianist, which allows him to accurately re-create what Freddie Mercury and Queen magically did live on stage as a four piece supergroup. Rounding out the Queen Nation lineup are: Mike McManus on guitar as Brian May, Pete Burke on

drums as Roger Taylor, and Parker Combs on bass as John Deacon. Queen Nation has amassed legions of fans as “The Peoples Choice Tribute To Queen.” They were recently inducted into the California Music Hall Of Fame 2020 inaugural class as well as being voted The Best Live! Band at the 2020 VCMAs (Ventura County Music Awards ). 

J U N E 6, 2021

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 1 3

CAMPING

Continued from page 7

travel around, you’ll have to pack up your campsite every time you want to take a side trip, unless you pull a second vehicle with you behind the RV. Fifth-wheel trailers are spacious and comfortable, but need a special rig to tow. A traditional trailer, like a tent trailer, offers the most flexibility. You can choose the size best for you and drop it at your camp site as you travel around to see the sights on day trips. Tent camping allows you access to off-the-beaten-path views, locations and experiences. Whichever camping experience you choose, there is one available for every age, lifestyle and level of camping experience.

My favorite campgrounds

There are so many wonderful campgrounds to experience in California it is hard to pick just a few favorites. Here’s my list of top five campgrounds. To make a reservation at a California state park visit www.reservecalifornia.com/CaliforniaWebHome or the webpage for the park you want to visit. This site is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park

Located 26 miles south of Carmel on Highway 1 Info www.parks.ca.gov/?page_ id=570 On the western slope of the Santa Lucia Mountains, the peaks of Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park tower high above the Big Sur River Gorge, where the Big Sur River enters this popular park. Walk along the banks of the river and among the redwoods, conifers, oaks, sycamores, cottonwoods, maples, alders and willows. A large campground accommodates hikers, bikers, car campers and RVers. Many campsites are located along the Big Sur River. Pfeiffer Big Sur is an extremely popular campground. Reservations fill up six months in advance.

Carpinteria State Beach

The park is on Highway 224, off U.S. 101, twelve miles south of Santa Barbara. Info www.parks.ca.gov/?page_ id=599

Mt. Whitney is the tallest mountain in the lower 48 states. It lies on the boundary of Sequoia National Park and Inyo National Forest. PHOTO COURTESY VISIT CALIFORNIA

It is a great little campground close to home that offers a mile of beach for swimming, surf fishing, tidepool exploring and camping. Lifeguards patrol the beach year-round and lifeguard towers are staffed roughly from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend. Tide pools contain starfish, sea anemones, crabs, snails, octopi and sea urchins. The campground is almost on top of nearby railroad tracks, so be aware that trains pass through the area regularly. Camping facilities are open, along with day-use trails, the boardwalk, beach and restrooms.

Pismo State Beach, Oceano Campground

555 Pier Ave., Oceano Info www.parks.ca.gov/?page_ id=595 Visitors can choose from many diverse activities including camping, surfing, swimming, fishing, bird watching, walking trails, a boardwalk through the dunes, a visitor center, free educational programs and a freshwater lagoon. The Oceano Campground features both hook-up RV sites and tent-camping sites.

Sequoia Kings Canyon National Parks Hwy 180 from Fresno leads east to

Kings Canyon National Park, then continues 30 miles east to Cedar Grove. Info www.nps.gov/seki/index.htm This dramatic landscape testifies to nature’s size, beauty and diversity with huge mountains, rugged foothills, deep canyons, vast caverns and the world’s largest trees. Camping here truly is like leaving the world behind and living in the forest. The one “must” for camping in this park is dutifully stowing all your food in the bear-proof storage bins located in each campsite. We had bears walk directly through our campsite daily and never had a single problem with the creatures. Lodgepole Campground is my favorite and is perched on the banks of the scenic and lengthy Marble Fork of the Kaweah River, at an elevation of 6,700 feet. The inspiring Giant Forest Grove and the mighty General Sherman Tree, the world’s largest tree in volume, are just 2 miles from the campground. Lodgepole Campground is 21 miles from the Sequoia National Park entrance.

Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park Located along U.S. Route 199, approximately 9 miles east of Crescent

City Info www.parks.ca.gov/?page_ id=413 This park offers out-of-this-world beautiful, secluded, large campsites with electricity and hookups. A few miles inland from the ocean, the park is densely forested with huge ancient trees. In fact, it contains 7 percent of all the old-growth redwoods left in the world. No roads or trails mark “Jed Smith’s” core … just pure, primeval majesty. While the park is only partially open, camping is open at the Jedediah Smtih Redwoods State Park. There are so many places to go and so many places to see across the United States. Try camping at Yellowstone National Park, Great Smoky Mountains National Park in North Carolina or Denali National Park and Preserve in Alaska. In addition, to state and national park campgrounds there are hundreds of private campgrounds that may have spots available this summer. Most importantly, don’t forget the s’mores. 

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J U N E 6, 2021

HOME

Ways to use brick and stone to enhance your home

hoosing the right materials is an essential step in planning a home remodel or renovation. Options like brick and stone can add style, comfort and beauty to homes. With a diverse array of colors, textures and sizes to choose from, there are options to suit practically any design aesthetic, whether it’s traditional, contemporary or somewhere in between. Because brick and stone materials provide strength, permanence, sustainability and beauty, it’s possible to balance function with appearance. Before choosing your brick or stone material, it’s a good idea to explore the vast color options, varying textures and sizes. You might even consider combining different materials to create accents that add interest and support the design of your home. If you like the idea of incorporating brick or stone into your design but are not sure where it fits, consider these popular choices:

Whether you’re going for a modern look or something more traditional, quality is a top priority in highuse areas like the kitchen. Choose materials from a reliable source like Glen-Gery, which offers more than 600 brick and stone products in a vast variety of sizes, textures and colors. Bar Surrounds: This feature tends to be a focal point in its own right but adding brick or stone can make your bar area a real showstopper while capturing the color tones of the rest of the room.

Accent Walls If you’re concerned about overpowering a room, an accent wall is a simple way to add the appealing look of brick or stone in moderation. The wall can add character and dimension that either stands out or blends into the overall design,

depending on the colors and textures you choose. Kitchens From flooring to island accents, backsplashes and beyond, the options are plentiful for introducing brick or stone into kitchen design.

Archways Defining the transition from one space to the next adds an architectural design element that can either carry your design theme from one room of the house to the next or signal a transition toward a new motif, depending on the material you choose. Find more ideas for a home upgrade using brick or stone at glengery.com. (Family Feature) 

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S U N D AYS I G N A L · 1 5

How to find help with financial planning

inancial advisors can be invaluable resources for people who need help managing their money. There’s an existing misconception that financial advisors are only for the rich, but anyone can benefit from some guidance in regard to their finances. The key is finding a planner who understands your needs and is willing to work with you, no matter how big or small your financial dreams may be. According to U.S. News and World Report, some financial advisors are no longer interested in working with people without substantial portfolios. Certain firms have stopped paying commissions to brokers for accounts that are considered small, including customers with assets worth between $100,000 and $500,000. While that can make it difficult to find financial help, there are ways to receive assistance.

Ask friends for recommendations

If a financial advisor has worked with a colleague, friend or family member, he or she may also be able to provide services to you. To find professionals with reputable credentials, look for someone who has a Certified Financial Planner or Personal Financial Specialist designation. Those who are relying on investment advisors should

FINANCE

Contact a professional association

The National Association of Personal Financial Advisors can provide resources for finding local financial advisors. Visit www.napfa.org for a listing. Middle-income individuals can look at the Accredited Financial Counselor website at www.afcpe.org to find professionals. Accredited financial counselors often focus on helping low- and middle-income people at affordable prices with relevant financial assistance.

Research compensation

work with one who has a Chartered Financial Analyst certificate. These credentials are indicative of proficiency in financial planning.

Look around online

Various online resources, including U.S. News & World Report, offer searchable databases. The Garrett Planning Network at garrettplanningnetwork. com offers a map of the United States where users can find financial advisors in their areas who cater to the middle class.

Financial advisors may receive compensation in one of two ways: fee-only and non-fee-only. A fee-only advisor typically charges an hourly fee or flat rate for services. A non-fee-only advisor may be compensated at a percentage of assets earned or may receive incentives and commissions from their companies based on preestablished sales goals or objectives. There are no right and wrong answers to fee schedules, but find a situation that works for you. Some people need help navigating the ropes of financial planning. Financial planners can help people from all backgrounds establish and achieve their financial goals. (MC) 

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J U N E 6, 2021

GARDENING

Turn your backyard garden into By Jane Gates Signal Staff Writer

iving in this part of the country rewards us with a climate that makes it perfect to use the garden after dark. Most other areas of the country have too much inclement weather or too many aggressive nighttime bugs to regularly relax outdoors after the sun goes down. And since so many of our summer days chase us indoors with excessive heat, the garden becomes even more tempting when temperatures cool at the end of the day. So why not design your landscape to include nighttime use? After all, a garden can look amazingly magical after dark! When planning out your garden, keep in mind all the different ways you can use it when daytime is done. Think of extending your living space outdoors for rest and relaxation, entertainment and nighttime sports. There are many ways you can turn your ordinary landscape into a special place that is quite different than the daytime garden you are used to seeing. Relax Add comfy chairs, a water feature to provide the calming sound of trickling water and plant night-scented plants for a bit of aroma therapy. You can make your garden into a sensory experience after dark with scented flowers. There is something truly delightful about sitting in a garden aglow with warm nighttime lighting and the fragrance of night-blooming flowers filling the air. By planting scented flowers in your garden, you can create a romantic ex-

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perience or stress-healing retreat to enjoy and share after dark. Look for white or light pastel-colored flowers to add visual contrast in the dark. Scented flowers Some good night-scented white flowering vines are jasmines like Trachelospermum jasminoides known as Star Jasmine (best planted with some daytime dappled shade), and the pink and white Jasminium polyanthum for full sun. Moonflowers are another good vine for partial- or full-shade garden areas. But, only use Ipomoea alba. Other other varieties can be poisonous. For low-growing flowers, try a ground cover of white Alyssum, flowering Tobacco or the Four O’Clock Alba. The Tufted Evening Primrose and the Chocolate flower are two good choices for native, water-wise scented flowers. Fill a larger space with the shrubby California native Mock Orange (Philadelphus lesisii) for full sun or part shade. Or, try the frost-shy Cestrum nocturnum, the Night-Blooming Jasmine, to permeate the air with a powerful perfume in a protected area. Casa Blanca Lily or the diminutive Zephranthes drummondii (Rain Lily) are some good bulb choices. They are good to grow in mild sun or part shade, and are not fussy about soil. There are whites and other colors of Brugmansia, Angle Trumpet (all parts toxic if eaten), Centauria and Tobacco flower that will add color to your garden during the day yet still flood your garden with a gentle nighttime perfume.

You can even design in some of these fragrant flowers near a doorway or window where the scent can filter into your home and soothe you to sleep. Nighttime fun and comfort Other ways to make your garden inviting at night involve building and furnishing spaces that are comfortable and practical. Design in permanent features like a cozy patio, add tables and chairs, build an outdoor fireplace or fire pit and maybe a built-in barbecue so you can celebrate the outdoors at night with friends and family. If you like to entertain, set your backyard up so it is comfortable for evening parties in the garden. Look into some of the decorative and useful furniture being made for outdoor use. Lighting Add a lighted sport court, a small hiking path dotted with low voltage or solar lighting or consider a dramatically lit water feature for powerful effects in the evening hours. Lighting is an art of its own, transforming the same location into something entirely different with light and

shadow. Use it in your night garden to pick out focal points, provide safety and transform a dark garden into a magical playground. With outdoor LED lights embedded in flexible cords, you can even line walkways or draw outlines in your nighttime scene. There have never been so many choices in lighting effects. Most are energy efficient so they shouldn’t have much impact on your electricity bill. Choose warmer yellows or cooler whites and accent a special area with colored lights for special effects. Think about all the ways you can make your garden work for you after the sun goes down. Nighttime gardens can be a haven for the inland landscape. Create your own magical garden. You can extend the useful part of your house and lifestyle not only into your garden, but deep into the night. For more information about gardening in the Santa Clarita Valley, visit Jane Gates on YouTube at https://you tube.com/user/Janieg8s. 

J U N E 6, 2021

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 1 7

SENIORLIVING

Exercises for seniors

osing interest in an exercise regimen is a situation many fitness enthusiasts have confronted at one point or another. Overcoming a stale workout routine can be simple for young athletes, whose bodies can typically handle a wide range of physical activities. That flexibility allows younger athletes the chance to pursue any number of physical activities when their existing fitness regimens grow stale. But what about seniors who have grown tired of their workouts? Even seniors who have lived active lifestyles since they were youngsters are likely to encounter certain physical limitations associated with aging. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the likelihood of dealing with one or more physical limitations increases with age. CDC data indicates that 8% of adults between the ages of 50 and 59 have three or more physical limitations. That figure rises to 27% among adults age 80 and over. Physical limitations may be a part of aging for many people, but such obstacles need not limit seniors looking to banish boredom from their workout routines. In fact, many seniors can successfully engage in a variety of exercises that benefit their bodies and are unlikely to grow stale.

Water aerobics

Sometimes referred to as “aqua aerobics,” water aerobics may involve jogging in the water, leg lifts, arm curls, and other activities that can safely be performed in a pool. The YMCA notes that water aerobics exercises are low impact, which can make them ideal for seniors with bone and joint issues like arthritis.

Resistance band workouts

Resistance band workouts can be especially useful for seniors who

spend a lot of time at home. Resistance bands are inexpensive and don’t take up a lot of space, making them ideal for people who like to exercise at home but don’t have much space. Resistance bands can be used to strengthen muscles in various parts of the body, including the legs, arms and back. They can be pulled or pushed in any direction, allowing for more versatility in a workout than weight machines and dumbbells. That versatility allows seniors to spice up their workout regimens when things get a little stale.

Pilates

Pilates is another low-impact exercise that can be ideal for seniors with bone and joint issues. According to SilverSneakers®, a community fitness program for seniors that promotes living through physical and social engagement, Pilates can help seniors build overall strength, stability and coordination. SilverSneakers® even notes that seniors can experience improvements in strength and stability by committing to as little as 10 to 15 minutes of daily Pilates exercises.

Strength training

Seniors on the lookout for something more challenging than a daily walk around the neighborhood should not overlook the benefits of strength training. The CDC notes that seniors who participate in strength training can stimulate the growth of muscle and bone, thereby reducing their risk for osteoporosis and frailty. In fact, the CDC notes that people with health concerns, such as arthritis or heart disease, often benefit the most from exercise regimens that include lifting weights a few times each week. Physical limitations are a part of aging. But seniors need not let such limitations relegate them to repetitive, boring workouts. (MC) 

ARE YOU STARTING TO TRAVEL AGAIN? Better hearing will lead to better enjoyment of your trip!

Remember it’s much easier to take these steps before you leave and are away from home then when you are in another state or outside the country. • Get new batteries and have your hearing aids cleaned by a professional. • Look into insurance for your hearing aid in the event it’s lost or damaged. • If heading to a humid climate, purchase a drying agent to keep your hearing aid from getting damp.

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TECHNOLOGY

The benefits of audiobooks for your book lovers

eople who love to read often get lost in a good book. Reading is a beloved hobby across the globe. But even avid readers cannot be immersed in books all of the time — or can they? Reading while driving or engaging in other tasks is challenging or even dangerous, but audiobooks provide a way to enjoy a good story even when you’re otherwise engaged. Though dedicated readers may feel like they’re “cheating” by turning to audiobooks, these alternatives to traditional books can be beneficial in various applications, particularly among learning-disabled individuals or second-language learners. Audiobooks have grown in popularity. Data from the Audio Publishers Association indicates that audiobook sales reached $1.2 billion in 2019. That figure supports the notion that audiobooks can provide a host of benefits to people who can’t wait to begin their next page turner.

Improve punctuation, fluency

Audiobooks tend to be read by professional narrators or even well known actors and actresses. Listening to audiobooks can help people learn proper pronunciation of words, how to read with punctuation in mind and also to take notice of speed,

to new words and teach readers how to pronounce unfamiliar dialects or old literary styles.

Experience vivid images

Audiobooks may evoke feelings of what it was to be read to as a child. According to Psychology Today, listeners can use the narrator’s words and form mental pictures of characters and the plot.

Escapism

Rather than listening to music while commuting, exercising or doing work that doesn’t require much concentration, people can use audiobooks to stimulate their minds.

Relax and relieve stress stresses and pauses that are important in developing reading fluency.

Introduce new material

Reading Rockets, a resource for teaching reading, says audiobooks may introduce readers to books above their reading levels or to subjects they may not normally delve into.

Expand vocabulary

Listening to audiobooks can introduce readers

Audiobooks can help people feel happy, thus improving their overall health. Relaxing voices and vivid scene descriptions can soothe a person and even help them get ready to sleep.

Manage time more effectively

A notable benefit of audiobooks is that they can be utilized as people perform other tasks, helping to free up time throughout the rest of the day while still ensuring people get to enjoy a good story. Audiobooks may be the answer for busy book lovers. (MC) 

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S U N D AYS I G N A L · 2 1

H E A LT H

Skin care tips as we enter into warm-weather season

f you’ve ever noticed how thirsty you get when it’s hot outside, that’s because your body’s natural water content evaporates more quickly in warm weather. It’s not just your mouth that gets parched, however; your entire body, including your skin, can feel the impact of climbing temperatures. Although it’s often overlooked, skin is an essential organ that needs special attention and care. Keeping it supple, soft and well-hydrated helps ensure it doesn’t dry and crack, which is just as possible during the warm summer months as winter. Use these tips to create a healthy skin care regimen. Use proper sunscreen The sun can dry out and damage your skin quickly even on an overcast day, and more so if you’re near water, where reflections can magnify its intensity. Protect your skin from burning and drying out by using sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 any time you venture outdoors.

Moisturize often Make moisture part of your daily routine, not just when you get out of the shower, but throughout the day. An option like Remedy Dermatology Series Moisturizing Lotion contains a proprietary botanical blend of nutrients, emollients and antioxidants, including green tea, clove and safflower oleosomes. Its smooth, rich formula absorbs quickly, leaving skin feeling soft with no greasy or oily residue. For more information, visit remedyderm.com. Shorten bathtub and shower time It may seem contradictory that spending more time in the tub or shower strips your skin of moisture, but prolonged heat does exactly that. Keep your bathing time brief to minimize the chance of dehydration. “Although a long, hot shower or a nice soak in a tub is very relaxing, hot water can really dry out your skin,” said board-certified dermatologist and Medline Remedy consultant Dr. Jeanine Downie. “Damp skin helps hy-

moisturizer to penetrate and reveal healthy-looking skin. Be sure to exfoliate gently and adjust your exfoliation schedule to your skin’s unique needs so you don’t irritate it. Hydrate frequently Applying lotion is an external strategy for maintaining your skin’s natural barrier, but you can also keep your skin hydrated from the inside out. When you’re dehydrated, the body pulls water from any source it can, including your skin. A good rule of thumb is to drink at least 8-11 8-ounce glasses of water a day, and keeping a bottle of water on-hand at all times can provide easy, on-the-go hydration. dration from your moisturizer lock in, so the best time to apply moisturizer is not when your skin feels the driest but rather after a bath or shower.” Exfoliate Take time to regularly exfoliate, which removes dead skin cells and makes it easier for

Consume hydrating foods Similar to upping your water intake, you can increase your body’s overall water content by eating the right kinds of foods. Many types of produce have a high percentage of water, like berries, melon, cucumbers and zucchini. (Family Features) 

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J U N E 6, 2021

BEAUTY

How to prevent damaged, brassy summer hair

new haircut or a color change can align perfectly with the carefree spirit of summer. Summer may be an opportunity to experiment with lighter hues or highlights to complement the natural changes to hair that come with exposure to the sun and surf. Hair care routines after changing colors may require a few additional steps, as weather or stying conditions can contribute to less-than-desireable results, including brassy tones. According to the hair experts at The Matrix, everyone’s hair has warm colors within. Whenever hair is lightened, underlying gold or red tones become more visible. Hair also may turn brassy because the follicles are porous and can soak up everything from minerals in shower water to pollution or chlorine. Exposure to chlorine and summer sun can contribute to brassiness, making hair more vulnerable to dam-

wanted color changes comes down to prevention and correction. These tips can make a difference in hair health. • Wear a swim cap before going into the pool or the ocean to protect against chlorine or salt water, which may leach into hair shafts and cause brittleness and brassy hues. Specialty hair masks to coat tresses also can be effective. • Stick to the shade when outdoors to avoid having hair fried by exposure to the sun’s UV rays. If that’s not possible, wear a hat or hair products that contain UV protection. age and breakage. Many people may not know that some hair care products also can contribute to brassiness or bland color. The beauty product review source Beauty Mag warns that shampoos that contain silicones, sulfates, parabens and coloring can contribute to the problem. Avoiding hair damage and un-

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• Determine if the water in your home is “hard,” which means it has high levels of chlorine, metals and minerals in it. Water-softening systems and filters can help mitigate hard water issues. Also, there’s no need to wash hair multiple times a week, which can cause hair dye to fade more quickly. • Consider highlights over all-over

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hair lightening/coloring. With highlights, there will be fewer colored portions of your hair and less opportunity for lightened hair to turn brassy. Stylists can add enough highlights to make the total effect appear much brighter. • Use a toner or correctional “purple” shampoo. Toning products rely on color wheel technology. Opposite colors on the wheel cancel each other out. Orange and yellow (brassy) hues are opposite blue and purple. Therefore, using special shampoos that contain blue and purple pigments will offset brassy hues. Don’t worry, your hair won’t turn violet with recommended use. Summer hair can retain its vitality and color with some easy steps. Speak with a local stylist about other ways to maintain beautiful hair color all summer long. (MC) 

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S U N D AYS I G N A L · 2 3

Protecting your pets in the hot summer weather

arm weather brings many changes. Warm weather can make travel more enjoyable and affords people more time to comfortably enjoy the great outdoors. It’s best to keep safety in mind when soaking up the sun. That’s important for all members of the family, including pets. Cats and dogs are as susceptible to heat-related illnesses as their human companions.

Recognize heat stroke

Pets can suffer from heat stroke, according to the American Red Cross. Certain breeds of dogs are highly susceptible, particularly those with short snouts, such as pugs and bulldogs. Excessive exercise in hot weather, lack of appropriate shelter outdoors and leaving a dog in a hot car may precipitate an episode of heat stroke. It’s important to get the pet out of direct heat right away and check for signs of shock, which include sei-

zures, a body temperature of 104 F or higher, stupor, increased heart rate, or excessive panting. Placing water-soaked towels on the pet’s feet, head, neck, and abdomen can bring down its temperature.

Be cautious of hot surfaces

Humans wear shoes on their feet for protection, but pets do not have that luxury. Think about how hot your feet can feel when you scurry barefoot across hot sand en route to the shoreline or to cross a deck to get to the pool. When the sun beats down on surfaces, those surface temperatures rise quickly. According to a 2010 study by Liberty Home and Pet Services, at peak afternoon sun and an ambient temperature of 95 F in southern Florida, the temperature of cement was measured at 125 F, red brick at 135 F, blacktop at 140 F, and grass at 102 F. Individuals who think a car is safer for their dog or cat may be surprised the informal study measured 152 F

PETS

on seat surfaces.

Provide extra water

It’s likely you will need to fill your pets’ water bowls more frequently in warm weather than during other times of the year. Be sure to provide constant access to fresh water, even for young puppies who may be learning to house train.

Avoid cutting fur too short

If a veterinarian suggests a hair cut may be beneficial for keeping a pet cool or comfortable, resist the urge to shave down to the skin. Having at least one inch of fur will protect the pet from sunburn.

Outdoor hazards

Warm weather may bring out a high number of insects and wildlife. Use a flea and tick preventative product and medication to protect against heartworm, which is transmitted through mosquitoes. Snakes, skunks, raccoons, foxes, and other animals may be roaming around, and a scuffle

with your pet can result in injury. Pets need extra care during the warm weather to avoid damage and sickness from the sun, heat and more. (MC) 

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J U N E 6, 2021

K I D S & FA M I LY

Donna’s Day: Creative Family Fun

‘Pizza Puzzle’ helps get chores done By Donna Erickson Signal Contributing Writer

ometimes little ones get overwhelmed when confronted with a big job — like picking up a messy room. It may seem easy enough to adults, but to them, well, where do they begin? It’s easier when the tasks are broken up into chunks, and that’s what this activity is all about. Get a job done, but in slices, using this simple pizza puzzle game.

Here’s the crafting fun 1. Take a large plate, preferably 15 inches in diameter, turn it upside down on a piece of poster board or a craft foam sheet, and trace around it. Cut out the circle. Divide the circle into three pieces like pizza slices, and cut them out. 2. Get your child thinking about pizza toppings and then begin to cut out

the basic food shapes together from construction paper or craft foam. You might decide on red pepperoni circles, green pepper squiggles and tan mushroom slices. Glue them onto the slices. 3. Cut out the numbers 1, 2 and 3 from construction paper or craft foam, and glue one on each slice. While you are doing this, decide what part of the chore each number will represent. For example, when cleaning a bedroom, the tasks might be put (1) shoes in the closet, (2) clothes in the hamper and (3) books in the basket. 4. Glue a small magnet to the back of each slice. Let dry.

Here’s how the game works

Watch your child speed into his room to get started! “Mom, my shoes are in the closet!” he might say as he completes the task. He’ll run into the kitchen to place slice No. 1 on a

magnetic bulletin board or refrigerator door. He’ll run back to his room. “Mom, my clothes are in the hamper!” Up goes slice No. 2. “Mom! I put all my books in the basket!” Before you know it, all three pieces of his chore will be done, and an entire yummy pizza will be decorating your kitchen. Of course, by the time he’s finished, he might decide he’s hungry for a slice of pizza. I’d hand him the real thing, though. Extra tip As your child grows, make an incentive with a few more pieces using a variety of themes. For example, use white poster board and make five snowballs for a snowman,

or brown poster board for a chocolate cake. Surprise him with a special reward occasionally when there’s a significant chore to be tackled. Donna Erickson’s award-winning series “Donna’s Day” is airing on public television nationwide. To find more of her creative family recipes and activities, visit www.donnasday.com and link to the Donna’s Day Facebook fan page. Her latest book is “Donna Erickson’s Fabulous Funstuff for Families.”  © 2020 Donna Erickson Distributed by King Features Synd.

J U N E 6, 2021

SOLUTIONS

PUZZLES

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CROSSWORD TIME

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Opinion

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

Voter Suppression a Real Danger Arthur Saginian (letters, May 30) mentioned my letter of May 13 as an example of emotional speaking as opposed to rational thinking. He was referring to my comments on voter suppression bills, specifically the one enacted in Georgia. He argues “that political swords are usually double-edged and usually cut in both directions.” What he forgets to mention is that the sword may be blunt on one side and razor-sharp on the other side. If a Republican-controlled legislature takes control of the state election board, it may be able to guarantee the Republicans never lose another election, so the legislature cannot flip and this definitely does not affect both sides. If early voting is expanded in small Republican-leaning counties, but not in the populous Democratic-leaning counties, this will definitely not affect both sides equally. Longer lines and wait times to vote will suppress voting in the population centers. If the secretary of state is removed as a voting member of the state election board, and power is transferred to the Republican legislature to void an election result, how is this equal for both sides? I could go on and on. I have to ask: When is voter suppression permitted in a democracy? This kind of voter suppression legislation, if not stopped, is the beginning of the end of our democratic experiment. Welcome to Russia, or Belarus, or Myanmar. Thomas Oatway Valencia

A Double Standard from Big Tech Twitter and Facebook suspended and/or deplatformed a number of conservatives last year for suggesting — as Anthony Fauci did earlier this month — that the Wuhan lab leak theory was plausible. So will Fauci be banned now? Of course not. Only conservatives get banned by Big Tech. Will Fauci at least be criticized by the liberal media for another of his infamous 180’s? Of course not. They see him as an ally. Rob Kerchner Santa Clarita

A True Leader for the 25th District Rep. Mike Garcia is a very principled, honest and respected leader for our district and has proven to be so for the last year and a half. His votes are not only for his voting base, but also they are for common sense and for principle, for everyone regardless of party affiliation. If everyone took the time to review his votes closely, you will understand why they are so important. It’s important to not follow what the radical left Democrats have created, and simply follow the Constitution. If both sides of the aisle can achieve this, we would be a better country. Never socialism, always capitalism. I and many others thank Garcia for being a true leader for this district. Alyssa Theodore Agua Dulce 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

When Feeling Good, Isn't By David Hegg

he academic study of ethics is about as practical as you can get, unless it becomes merely academic. Ethics is the study of cultural norms, of standards of behavior, and ultimately, of right and wrong. Down through history smart folks like Aristotle, Plato and the guys who formed groups like the Stoics and Gnostics put together systems of thought designed to give authoritative foundation to their particular brand of ethical conduct. Once formed, these systems of thought, or better, these worldviews, became the rules by which life was best lived. Today most of us wouldn’t recognize an academic system of ethics if asked to pick one out of a lineup. That doesn’t mean, however, that we all don’t have an ethical foundation. What it does mean is that we’re probably just comfortable being somewhat inconsistent in the way we think about right and wrong. Take, for example, what you might tell a young child about honesty. I choose to believe that, all other things being equal, we would want a parent to instill in the child the belief that lies are wrong and telling the truth is right. I still believe that most people feel that way, and do so because they have a basic conviction that truth is right and deceit is wrong, generally. But, while we may hold to this broad conviction, there are often times when we violate our general ethical position in order to pursue what we believe is a better state. At points we come to believe that lying will bring about a better experience than will telling the truth. And, increasingly as a society, we are OK with that. We are OK holding to opposite truth claims at the same time. While believing truth is right and deceit is wrong, we can also believe that deceit can be “right for me” at certain times. What is really going on here? Simply this. We are fast becoming a pragmatic society that grounds its ethical convictions not on a well-thought-out, consistent and cohesive set of moral principles, but on how this or that makes us feel in the moment. We

might call this “dynamic personalism.” That is, the dynamic that moves our attitudes and actions is nothing more than personal preference, in the moment. It hit me as I watched some of the Grammys this year that, if art imitates life, we are in big trouble. There is no denying that what was portrayed on stage through music, lyrics, costumes and all manner of gyrations and sexual demonstrations was a bold and brash return to animalistic behavior meant to erase the line between culture and chaos. Yes, I turned it off. But even now what I witnessed continues to turn my attention to the deeper tragedy that those who designed, produced, sponsored, performed and appreciated that spectacle have intentionally thrown off ethical restraint in favor of an ethic whose only standard is that feeling good is good, and all other standards are illegitimate. So, am I a prude? Am I way behind the times, still in bondage to an ethic composed of antiquated moral standards? Yes, and I stand by my ethical position. But here’s the deal. I possess a paradigm, grounded in an authority outside of my personal whims and wishes, that defines right and wrong. Consequently, I can critique other systems according to my standards. But those whose systems are grounded only on the idea that nothing is really wrong, nothing is truly immoral, cannot critique my worldview, for to do so would undermine their thinking. If nothing is ethically wrong, then my views can’t be, either. Before those who enjoyed the ethos of the Grammys can point a disturbed finger at my assessment of them, they first have to define just what they think constitutes poor taste. Unfortunately for them, the show they just put on is exhibit “A” that they don’t have a clue. I only hope, in this case, that instead of art imitating life, life can intimidate art into being worthy of the artistic label once again. Local resident David Hegg is senior pastor of Grace Baptist Church. “Ethically Speaking” appears Sundays. 

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