Sunday Signal June 13, 2021 by Signal

Adventures on California’s Rivers

JUNE 13, 2021

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J U N E 13, 2021

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 3

TABLE OF CONTENTS

NEWS FEATURES 4 5 6 7

Catching up with SCV’s craft beer scene Celebrate Dad this month with a memorable trip The stakes for cybersecurity keep rising Rafting on California’s rivers

FROM THE CITY MANAGER

8 Jump into Summer Reading!

SENIOR LIVING

9 Help protect seniors from financial abuse

AUTOMOTIVE 10 10 Check your tires for safe summer driving

ENTERTAINMENT 11 1 1 Movie: Changing the Game 12 It’s Grill & Chill season 13 Irish rock band Young Dubliners at The Canyon

HEALTH 15 15 How to choose the right pair of sunglasses

GARDENING 17 17 Brighten your garden with wild bird feeders

“BEST OF” BALLOT 18 PETS 20 20 Ways you can support your pet’s immune system

KIDS & FAMILY

2 1 Donna’s Day: Too good to be true slow-cooker bbef tacos Junior Whirl • Did you know?

PUZZLES 22 OPINION 23

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J U N E 13, 2021

N E W S F E AT U R E

Catching up with SCV’s craft beer scene By Kev Kurdoghlian Signal Staff Writer

alk into Telco Brewery on a Tuesday or Wednesday after work hours and you’d think co-owners Jaime Hernandez and Tony Santa Cruz were preparing the Santa Clarita Valley’s largest oatmeal breakfast. In a large tank, water, grain, oats and other essential ingredients swirl toward becoming one of the brewery’s most popular beers, the Static Haze IPA. “We thought it was just going to be a trend just like most beers are kind of like trends and then they kind of go away,” Hernandez said of the IPA — one of the three on the microbrewery’s opening menu in 2017. “The hazy IPA trend is still here.” Beers like the Static Haze IPA and others on tap at Telco can trace their origins to the days when Hernandez and Santa Cruz — AT&T employees by day — were homebrewers. “As a homebrew, you’re not even making the beer once,” said Santa Cruz. “I would make beers three or four times before I actually got it to where I was like, ‘Alright, this is the way I want it.’” Since opening Telco, the duo has tweaked their beers to ensure each one is true to its style and meeting the tastes of their Santa Clarita customers who helped them survive the pandemic. With their industrial home in Valencia closed, canning was the only way to get their beer out during the pandemic. “One of us was filling the beers, passing on to the next person. The next person was weighing it to make sure it had enough liquid. The next person was putting a lid on it. The next person was labeling it. It was like our little production,” Hernandez said of his team, including Santa Cruz and their spouses, which also hosted “Zoom parties” during the pandemic. As COVID-19 restrictions ease up, Telco has rolled up their garage door to welcome back customers to a safe environment. “We want to make sure we’re in compliance so we took the time to make,” said Hernandez, pointing out signage, facemasks, distancing and an online ordering system. “It’s important to make people feel safe.” And now that things are safer, events are coming back. Hernandez and Santa Cruz will also pour at Cars Under the Stars in July and several other festivals across the state in the coming year. Telco is located at 27825 Fremont Court, Suite 13, Santa Clarita.

Pocock Brewery

Events are returning to all of Santa Clarita’s breweries, including Pocock Brewery, founded in Valencia nearly six years ago by Todd Tisdell and Geoff Pocock, which currently serves 23 different beers spanning from a specialty double IPA called “Sign

Telco Brewery co-owners Jaime Hernandez, left, and Tony Santa Cruz check the tank temperature to ensure they add pounds of grain at the right moment. Kev Kurdoghlian

Yeah” to a series of fruited beers, including a new one dropping in mid-June called “Despicable.” Tisdell said he hopes to bring back Pococktoberfest and the brewery’s annual beer festival to celebrate its anniversary in December as long as COVID restrictions allow it. “We tend to have brewers and decision makers or brewery owners that are there, participating in pouring beer. So, you actually get some really neat interaction with all the different breweries that show up,” he said, noting 25 breweries from all over Southern California join in the celebration. Despite restrictions, the pandemic wasn’t all bad for Pocock Brewery, which installed a pizzeria last April and introduced new food options. “We have Neapolitan-style pizzas, we have salads and we have a great huge pretzel that’s served with house-made beer cheese and house-made mustard,” said Tisdell, of Castaic. “It was something that we wanted to do anyway, it’s just the pandemic kind of forced our hands a little faster.” And new options like that are helping to fuel the growth of the craft brew scene in Santa Clarita. “Now that there’s four different entities producing beer in Santa Clarita, I think that the craft beer scene is finally starting to take a nice foothold here in Santa Clarita and people are really starting to embrace the whole local beer scene,” Tisdell said. “As long as the four of us continue to make the good, quality beers that we’re making, I think the craft beer scene will continue to expand in Santa Clarita.” Pocock is located at 24907 Ave. Tibbitts B, Santa Clarita.

Wolf Creek Brewery

Founded by Rob and Laina McFerren in 1997, Wolf Creek was the city’s first brewery.

Navigating the local health restrictions were tricky, but Wolf Creek, which brews all of their beers at their Valencia location, was very fortunate, according to Laina. “We are 97% outside with a really big space that is very easy to social distance,” said McFerren, who is optimistic about the future. Wolf Creek installed three new big screen TVs in addition to expanding their daily snack offerings, bringing back live music and welcoming more food trucks, including a vegan food truck every Thursday night. “As things are opening up, I believe that we will see a lot of pent-up demand, once we’re finally allowed to do the things that we used to do,” she said. Wolf Creek recently released its white IPA, which had been made with blood orange, now with pineapple. In the coming weeks, McFerren will release two Belgian-style beers, including one in memory of her late husband, who passed away earlier this year. A founding brewery of the Los Angeles Brewers Guild, the McFerrens have helped shape the growth of craft beer in Santa Clarita. “We are fortunate, I think craft beer in general and particularly the breweries out here, we have a really great relationship with one another. We help each other out,” McFerren said. The four Santa Clarita breweries, including Draconum in Newhall, have even floated the idea of a Brew Hop Bus that would safely ferry people between all the local breweries. “We have started talking to the city about that, prior to the pandemic, and would love to get something like that,” she said. Wolf Creek’s brewery is located at 25108 Rye Canyon Loop, Santa Clarita. 

J U N E 13, 2021

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 5

N E W S F E AT U R E

Celebrate Dad this month with a memorable trip By Emily Alvarenga Signal Staff Writer

he history of Father’s Day goes back more than 100 years, but ironically, it didn’t become a national holiday until decades after President Woodrow Wilson’s Mother’s Day declaration, according to History. com. Speaking of tradition, in many homes, the third Sunday in June can take a back seat to the second Sunday in May, which is, of course, Mother’s Day. But it’s almost time to celebrate our dads, with their holiday fast approaching and, after a year in quarantine, limited by what we can do, who we can see and where we can go, it’s time to celebrate Dad, too, and we found a few fun ideas that he might enjoy. With the holiday falling less than a week after the state reopens fully and after a year-and-a-half long pandemic, maybe it’s time to do something a bit different and special to celebrate this year.

Spend a day at the track

Cross “drive a fast car” off your bucket list, and get behind the wheel of an exotic car, like a Ferrari, Lamborghini or Porsche, at Auto Club Speedway. No experience is necessary, as professional instructors teach you how to drive the racing line, allowing you to take full advantage of these powerful speedsters in a safe environment. Auto Club Speedway is located at 9300 Cherry Ave. in Fontana. Prices to drive start at around $200.

Or take a ride in a classic car

Celebrate Father’s Day at the Automobile Driving Museum, and take a ride in a classic car around El Segundo, chauffeured by a knowledgeable and experienced docent from the museum. After your ride, enjoy some beer tasting with dad, which are included with admission, as well as a special Father’s Day brunch with food prepared by William Bly, along with live music and entertainment. Tickets are $75 if purchased before the event. The Father’s Day celebra-

tion is scheduled from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sunday at the Automobile Driving Museum, located at 610 Lairport Street in El Segundo. For more information, visit automobiledriving museum.org/event/fathers-day-rides.

Take a trip through virtual reality

Escape into a virtual world at one of L.A.’s many VR locations, many of which provide arcades along with VR experiences. Playing video games using virtual reality headsets is next level, allowing you to see, touch, and hear as you make your way through the experience fully immersed in your adventure of choice. There are a number of VR arcades in the area, all of which offer different game and adventure options.

Adventure around Catalina Island

Get out and paddle along the shoreline, while enjoying the sights, sounds and creatures of Catalina Island. Join a tour group or get out and explore on your own with kayaks, paddle boards and snorkeling equipment available for rent. Then, take advantage of the hikeable terrain and enjoy a sunset hike, complete with views of the island. Even just the ferry ride to and from the island provides great views of the ocean and island life. Santa Catalina, one of California’s Channel Islands, lies southwest of L.A.

Tour a battleship

Take a tour of the USS Iowa Battleship, which was in service during World War II, Korea and the Cold War. Today, the ship is an award-winning naval history museum, with tours that allow visitors to follow in the footsteps of sailors and our mischievous mascot Vicky the Dog, who has been part of the battleship USS Iowa’s crew since her commissioning in 1943. The Battleship USS Iowa Museum is located at 250 S. Harbor Blvd. in San Pedro.

Go deep-sea fishing

Forget taking that fishing pole to the lake, instead take a trip out to the

Whether you think Dad might enjoy a peaceful fishing trip or a high-intensity trip to the track, going on an adventure with Dad is a great way to make lifelong memories for Father’s Day, and now there are more opportunities than there have been in a while. Courtesy photos

Pacific for a little deep-sea fishing. With miles of coastline, there are plenty of nearby options to choose from, ranging from chartering a boat off the Channel Islands and Santa Barbara, or you could rent one yourself.

Fly, hang through the air

Whether you’d prefer to jump out of an airplane or simply glide through the air, skydiving and hang gliding can be the closest thing to flying like a bird. Today’s skydivers are equipped with the latest design and technology that help to mitigate as much risk as possible. And while there is no motor involved in hang gliding, not even to get into the air, the glider is fully controllable, allowing pilots to maneuver the glider wherever they’d like.

There are a number of locations for either experience in the L.A. area with sceneries such as the nearby mountain ranges or oceanfront beaches.

Check out any of the state, national parks Some of the most beautiful scenery California has to offer lies in the state’s state and national parks. With such a diverse landscape, such as desert, mountain, beach or forest, there is an opportunity to experience nature for everyone. California boasts nine national parks — more than any other state — as well as 280 state parks, and each has its own unique appeal. 

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J U N E 13, 2021

N E W S F E AT U R E

The stakes for cybersecurity keep rising By Perry Smith Signal Managing Editor

ybersecurity breaches are becoming more and more common in the news, affecting major corporations, disrupting trade and even making our local schools vulnerable in the time when they’ve been reliant on remote learning. Many experts called the Colonial Pipeline ransomware attack a “wakeup call” for the nation’s cybersecurity. Hackers breached the network of a utility responsible for delivering a vital resource to at least 17 states. Criminals were able to infiltrate Colonial Pipeline Co. in April through a targeted attack through an employee’s remote-access work account, according to a June 4 Al Jazeera article. But the reality is, you don’t have to have millions of dollars to lose to be targeted or become a victim. In fact, this past fall, the Newhall School District was left offline for nearly 10 days in September after what’s known as a ransomware attack — an attack by software that threatens to publish data or perpetually block access, unless a feww is paid. These threats exist in your home, on your phone and, most importantly, almost anywhere you’re connected to the internet and your inbox. It’s more important than ever that you not only protect your information and change your passwords regularly, but that you make sure you’re aware of what you’re clicking and who you’re emailing.

What can happen

“Phishing occurs a lot because people open attachhments that come into their emails without paying attention to what’s really going on,” said Sgt. Alex Gilinets, who works in the Fraud and Cybercrimes Bureau of the Los Angeles County Sheriff ’s Department, “no matter what kind of advice you give him in regards to not doing that.” But Gilinets also sees a lot of investigations that stem from incidents in which people thought they were sending their money or payment information to a legitimate source. “The best advice is never give your

Bruce Burton, co-chair of Cal Poly’s Advisory Board for Cybersecurity of Critical Infrastructure and adviser to the Cal Poly’s California Cybersecurity Institute, noted many cybersecurity breaches can be prevented with training and oversight, during a previous talk with the SCV business community. Signal file photo

personal information to anybody online, unless you know exactly who you’re dealing with,” Gilinets added. It doesn’t hurt to go the extra mile and make a phone call, he added, just to double-check. It could save you almost everything. “Don’t hesitate to pick up the phone call — if you know the person and where the email’s coming from — to confirm that they’re the ones that actually send you an email,” he added. And if the communication involves payment and you can’t reach anyone at the contact you have, that might be something to consider. “Do not open unknown attachments if you have no idea who the email came from,” he said, “and take a little scrutiny and look at the email closer to make sure that the emails actually (are) coming from a person that they know.”

Protecting yourself

There are 10 victims of cybercrime created every second, according to a Norton LifeLock report from the industry leader, which now offers holistic solutions to cybersecurity that range in price from about $7 to about $26 per month, with the higher-end plans coming with up to $1 million in reimbursement for stolen information. The list of services, everything from “Phone Takeover Monitoring” to “identity and Social Security number alerts” gives an idea also on just how

much goes into security. “You see all kinds of threats these days,” said Michael Wong of Webroot cybersecurity, who was a guest speaker at a past SCV Chamber talk on the subject. “You have ransomware, crypto-logging, crypto-mining and all of those are all real threats. Our job is to keep customers up to speed with what’s actually out there … how do we come into play as to the target and protect against (those threats).” If you decide against a home-security system for your home network — which is often less expensive than a traditional home-security system — there are a few things you should know in case you become one of the more than 330 million people who have been a victim of cybercrime.

If security is breached

Even on USA.gov, the federal government’s website, there’s a caution because scammers try and use the federal government’s scam-reporting hotline, 1-844-USA-GOV1 (8724681), for what’s called “spoofing,” which means that scammers have figured out a way to tell your phone or computer that the person is calling from a fake number. It’s another reason why if you’re not 100%, it’s always a good idea to check. Even a transaction of a few pennies can reveal valuable information to a thief. But if someone is able to hack your network and you think your information is compromised, there are a few

steps you should take immediately. The first being contact the three credit bureaus. “You can report the potential identity theft to all three of the major credit bureaus by calling any one of the toll-free fraud numbers,” according to information at USA.gov. You will reach an automated telephone system that allows you to flag your file with a fraud alert at all three bureaus. Experian (1-888-3973742), Equifax (1-800-525-6285) and TransUnion (1-800-680-7289). While this won’t help you get any potential lost funds back, a fraud alert should stem future attacks (at least for 90 days), by making it harder for any nonverified person to access your account. And, of course, if you find anything that doesn’t make sense on your credit reports, you should definitely contact the credit bureau. The Sheriff ’s Department also sent out a recent alert about the “Microsoft Exchange On-Premise mitigation tool,” which can be obtained from Microsoft at: microsoft.com/security/blog/2021/03/02/hafnium-targeting-exchange-servers/ 

Be careful everywhere Most people are aware they should change their password every so often, but there are some other lesser known ways you can be more secure: 1. Change the default security settings on your home wireless router. 2. Turn the Wi-Fi and Bluetooth radios off on your phone when they are not in use. 3. If possible, do not use public WiFi such as the free Wi-Fi offered in coffee shops and hotels. 4. Call to verify any emails from your bank or credit card requesting for you to enter your username or password online.

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THINGSTODO

Rafting on California’s Rivers

Whitewater rafting the Chili Bar run on the South Fork of the American River with All Outdoors. PHOTOS COURTESY VISIT CALIFORNIA By Michele E. Buttelman Signal Staff Writer

ome of my favorite summer memories involve water. Floating on an inner tube in a lake, or a shallow river, is among life’s most blissful moments. I remember when our daughter was 8 or 9, we went to Yosemite National Park. What I remember of that trip was not the soaring trees or the magnificent vistas. My most cherished memory is of the lazy day we spent tubing down the Merced River. Your perfect river might be one where you float gently along on inner tubes, or maybe your style is to careen through raucous rapids in an eight-person inflatable raft. No problem. California has got it all when it comes to river rafting, from gentle half-day float trips for first-timers and mellow family adventures to adrenaline-pumping, white water, multi-day thrillers. Unlike some parts of the country where rafting seasons are fairly short, California has commercially run outfitters, plying rivers from March into September. The same river can be endlessly interesting, depending on the season. When choosing a raft trip, class matters. Gentle Class I and II rivers are perfect for self-guided floats and families with youngsters. Class III rivers require some paddling skills and beginners should join a guided trip. Class IV (intermediate) and Class V (advanced) rivers generally require a guide and helmets. No little ones are allowed, and these courses shouldn’t be attempted by beginners.

Many trips by outfitters include meals and camping experiences. Despite touting white water excursions, they also offer tranquil family-friendly rafting adventures. Many trips are surprisingly affordable.

South Fork American River

Rafting this waterway is perfect for anyone age seven to 77 (or more) and ideal for first-timers. This Class II-III paddle provides a thrill or two

— look for the infamous Troublemaker rapid, but there’s little chance of bouncing out of your raft. This river experience even includes a Golden State history lesson: The river runs right past the spot where the 1849 Gold Rush began at Sutter’s Mill in Coloma. A slew of companies guide half- and full-day trips on the South Fork. See RAFTING, page 16

When it comes to river rafting, California has it all. From gentle rivers to raucous rapids, there’s a river for one or the family.

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J U N E 13, 2021

FROM THE CITY MANAGER

Jump into Summer Reading! By Ken Striplin Santa Clarita City Manager

s the school year comes to an end and the weather gets warmer, our libraries have ramped up programming and are eager to offer our residents a variety of fun and engaging programs for kids, teens and adults! With our libraries back to their regular hours, we are excited to bring our residents back through our doors for a summer full of activities. Each year, the libraries kick off the season with the Summer Reading Program. This year’s theme is “Reading Colors Your World,” inviting residents to explore a world full of color – both inside the libraries and out in our parks. Participants who register

for the program can log the number of books they read, complete online missions and be entered to win prizes. Throughout the summer, each library branch is hosting a variety of in-person and outdoor programs. Whether you want to get creative and construct colored-themed crafts or get outside and be active while doing yoga in the park, there is something for everyone. The libraries are also offering drop-in, grab and go kits, where you can pick up activities and enjoy them in your own home. The Summer Reading Program ends on July 23, so be sure to register and start your reading adventures. The City has also partnered with the California State Library through a grant fund to provide “Lunch at the Library.” Children and teens 18 years and younger can stop by the Old Town Newhall or Canyon Country library branches to pick up a free,

prepacked lunch, Monday through Friday, from 12:00 to 1:00 p.m. This program will run until July 23. For those of you who want to beat the heat, we welcome you to come in and enjoy our large collections of books, use the computer labs or just find a place to sit back and enjoy your favorite novel. Each of our library branches also provide passport services, so if you need a renewal or an application for a new passport, please make an appointment and our staff will be happy to help you. Our library lockers are also still available 24/7 for those who would like their trip to the library to be contact-free. If you’re like me and want to be outside and enjoy the fresh air, then look no further than our Sidewalk Stories or Crafts on the Porch. Both of these programs are designed for residents to enjoy our library patios while reading, listening to stories or

crafting—all while socially distanced. For a list of events or to register, please go to SantaClaritaLibrary.com/ Events. We are so excited to offer our residents a robust array of programming throughout the summer—whether it’s virtually or in-person. I encourage you to take advantage of all the resources and opportunities available to you and your family at the Santa Clarita Public Library. For more information on the Summer Reading Program or to register, please visit SCVSummerReading.com or SantaClaritaLibrary.com.

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. 

J U N E 13, 2021

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 9

SENIORLIVING

Help protect seniors from financial abuse

n often-overlooked aspect of elder abuse is cybercrime — and it’s a problem that’s getting worse. In 2020, the FBI reported a record amount of cybercrime complaints nearly 800,000 — adding up to more than $4.1 billion in losses. More than half of those losses were suffered by people aged 50 and older. “The financial consequences are staggering,” said DJ Johnson, senior vice president of financial crimes risk management at Charles Schwab. “It’s something we all need to prioritize, dedicate resources to address and work closely on to prevent.” The FBI data shows that, on average, Americans aged 50 and over lost nearly $5 million every single day, or nearly $3,500 per minute, to cybercriminals. To protect your loved ones from financial cybercrime, the first step is awareness. What are the scams? While fraud can come in many forms, some criminal schemes are targeted at the senior population, including: Romance scam Fraudsters present themselves as potential romantic partners online to exploit their targets’ desire for companionship - a desire that has grown for many who have felt isolated through the coronavirus pandemic - and eventually get access to their money. Person in need scam Criminals pretend to be a loved one (e.g., a grandchild) in immediate trouble and need of money right away. Investment scam Outreach with phony investment opportunities. Fraud investigation scam Criminals pose as law enforcement officials, asking for personal information or even money to help with their investigation. Technology scam Fraudsters appear to be a technology support team member or someone from a trusted financial institution asking for remote access to fix a fabricated technical or account issue.

Who are the perpetrators?

When we think of fraudsters, we tend to think of nameless, faceless people sitting in the dark, halfway

around the world. In reality, a report by the Office of Financial Protection for Older Americans found that in 36% of cases, the victim knows the perpetrator personally. This is why caregiving should be a group effort. Bring other loved ones into the conversation, instead of leaving it in the hands of just one person. Lean on the financial institutions you keep your money with to be an extra set of eyes and ears for you. For instance, at Charles Schwab, we have teams dedicated to identifying and dealing with fraud attempts.

How can caregivers protect senior loved ones?

For caregivers, if you’re worried about your loved ones, start with this checklist to protect them: Talk about it Have a conversation about common scams. Discuss your loved ones’ investment goals and attitudes toward money so that you can recognize irregular behavior. Designate trusted contacts Make sure financial institution reps know who to contact on your loved one’s behalf in the event of suspected exploitation, fraud or health issues. Get organized Locate and safely store important financial documents, such as wills, trusts, powers of attorney, account statements, insurance policies and beneficiary designations. Even after you put things in place for your loved ones, be vigilant: Check in Regularly review and update important financial documents. Listen Pay attention to what your loved ones are saying and listen for worrying key phrases, such as “people are asking me for money,” “my bills are confusing to me” and “I don’t understand financial decisions that someone else is making for me.” Watch Look out for red-flag behaviors, including unusual or unexplained financial activity, abrupt changes to documents, unpaid bills or mail piling up, new friends or sweethearts or confused behavior. For more information on ways to educate and protect yourself and senior family members from fraudsters, visit schwab.com/schwabsafe/securityknowledge-center. (BPT) 

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J U N E 13, 2021

AUTOMOTIVE

Check your tires for safe summer driving

uring the warmer months, additional travel and hot roadways can put added stress on your vehicle and its tires, in particular. Normal driving, turning and braking on hot roads can pose safety risks to your vehicle and tires. Whether you are simply commuting or planning a road trip this summer, these tips from the experts at your neighborhood America’s Tire store can help keep you safe on the road this summer.

Get pressure right and check it often

Low tire pressure can lead to many issues for your tires, like decreased steering and braking control, poor gas mileage, excessive tire wear and the possibility of tire failure. Temperature changes can also impact tire pressure; for every 10 degrees in temperature change, your tire pressure changes one PSI (pound per square inch). To stay safe on the road,

recycle USED OIL

tires. Check to see what is included with your vehicle and consider adding a roadside assistance plan in case you experience a flat tire or other issues.

check your tire pressure at least once a month when the tires are cool. The impacts of bumps and turns from everyday use can lead to normal air loss, so be sure to check regularly and before any road trips. You can find the manufacturer’s recommended tire pressure on a sticker in your car’s door jamb or in your owner’s manual.

Ask an expert

Check your tread

Tread depth refers to the amount of tread on a tire, which can impact a vehicle’s handling, traction and safe stopping distance. More tread equals better road grip and shorter stopping distances while cars with lower tire tread can take significantly longer to stop. To easily check your tread depth, stick a penny upside-down in a tread groove. If you can see President Lincoln’s entire head, your tread is worn down and it’s time to replace your tires.

Rotate tires often

Tires should be rotated every 6,000 miles or earlier if you notice any un-

Santa Clarita

even wear. Rotating your tires increases tread life and helps ensure a smooth and safe ride.

Double check your trunk

Many newer vehicles have replaced spare tires with tire inflation kits. These kits include tools to keep you on the road, like puncture-coating sealants, air compressors and run-flat

Stay educated on your tires and what you need to do to keep them safe. Consider booking an appointment for a free tire safety check at a local store like America’s Tire. You can even stay in your car while service is performed as part of the touchless experience. If it is time to replace your tires, an option like the Treadwell online tire guide can help you find personalized tire recommendations for your specific vehicle, where you live and your driving habits. For additional tire safety tips, to locate a store near you or schedule a tire inspection appointment, visit Americas Tire.com. (Family Features) 

RECYCLES!

Certified Used Motor Oil Collection Centers The City of Santa Clarita has more than 20 state-certified locations, which recycle used motor oil and filters for FREE. Find a center near you and make the clean choice by taking your oil and filters for FREE and proper disposal. AAMCO Transmissions 25845 Railroad Ave. (661) 259-3013

Firestone Complete Auto Care 23100 Lyons Ave. (661) 799-9798

Mario the Mechanic 27266 Camp Plenty Rd. (661) 252-2740

O’Reilly Auto Parts 23323 Lyons Ave. (661) 222-7367

Auto Nation Chevrolet 23649 Valencia Blvd. (661) 877-4076

G & M Auto Repair 27260 Camp Plenty Road (661) 251-6736

Mini of Valencia 24135 Creekside Rd. (661) 286-2600

Parkway Cadillac Buick GMC 24055 Creekside Rd. (661) 253-4441

AutoZone 24820 Orchard Village Rd. (661) 222-9053

Halsey’s Auto Service 27565 Sierra Highway (661) 251-2327

Mountain View Tire 23440 Lyons Ave. (877) 872-0132

Parkway Hyundai 24050 Creekside Rd. (661) 731-4524

AutoZone 19327 Soledad Canyon Rd. (661) 299-5384

Hello Nissan Valencia 24111 Creekside Road (661) 255-2020

Napa Auto Parts 20541 Soledad Canyon Rd. (661) 252-8011

Pep Boys 20600 Golden Triangle Rd. (661) 251-8004

AutoZone 23046 Soledad Canyon Rd. (661) 284-5680

Jiffy Lube 20703 Soledad Canyon Rd. (661) 251-6836

Oil Stop, Inc. 23500 Valencia Blvd. (661) 288-2500

R & S Automotive 24773 Valley St. (661) 254-4589

The Dip Stick 23755 Newhall Ave. Unit A (661) 259-7822

Jiffy Lube 18533 Via Princessa (661) 299-2208

O’Reilly Auto Parts 26850 Sierra Hwy. (661) 299-9270

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J U N E 13, 2021

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 1 1

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

Pondering the changing game of transgender sports By Richard Roeper Signal Contributing Writer

‘Spirit Untamed’

‘Changing The Game’

Universal presents a film directed by Elaine Bogan and written by Aury Wallington and Kristin Hahn. Rated PG. In theaters.



1/2 (out of four) 

Hulu presents a documentary directed by Michael Barnett. No MPAA rating. Running time: 88 minutes.

arah Rose Huckman, Andraya Yearwood and Mack Beggs are like millions of other high school student-athletes who excel at their chosen sport, who get up in the predawn hours to work out, who love to compete, who sometimes feel as if they LIVE to compete. Granted, it’s not always easy to balance studies, athletics, family life and friends — but that’s what all high school athletes experience. The difference for Sarah, Andraya and Mack is they are transgender teens. They know who they are. It’s certain elements in the outside world that won’t accept that, don’t quite understand it, are at odds about how to react to that. Director Michael Barnett’s “Changing the Game” is an expertly crafted, empathetic, journalistically sound documentary following three strong, bright, likable and admirably accessible and forthcoming transgender teen athletes: Connecticut track standout Andraya Yearwood, a dominant sprinter who won the state title in the 100-meter dash; New Hampshire skier and activist Sarah Rose Huckman, and Texas wrestler Mack Beggs, who identifies as male but still had to compete against girls because of state laws saying athletes must compete in accordance with the gender on their birth certificate. Beggs became a two-time girls’ state champion, even as he made it clear he wanted to compete with the boys and even as his story made national headlines, with many claiming Beggs had an unfair advantage. “Policies for transgender high school athletes vary from state to state,” notes a graphic in the documentary. In New Hampshire, where Sarah Rose Huckman competes, she says, “When I got to high school, the policy was, you [a transgender teen] had to have gender reassignment in order to compete on the selected team that you would like to play on.” Sarah Rose becomes an activist intent

PHOTO COURTESY IMDB

on changing that rule. But she’s also just a teenage girl who records adorable makeup tutorials on YouTube and works hard on the family farm. Cut to Connecticut, where students are free to participate in sports based on their gender identity. “It feels amazing just knowing I get to be who I am,” says Andraya Yearwood, who trains with “Coach Brian,” who says simply, “Andraya’s out there competing with the other girls, and that’s the way it should be.” Meanwhile, in Texas, Mack Beggs is living with the grandparents who adopted him when he was 6 years old, and while Grandma Nancy is a 25year veteran of the Dallas Police Dept., happily rattles off the list of guns she owns, tells us she’s a “hardcore Republican” and staunch conservative, make no mistake about it — she and Grandpa Roy are 100% supportive of Mack and keep reminding themselves to use the proper pronoun. Clearly an advocacy film, “Changing the Game” acknowledges the viewpoint of the parents of girl wrestlers in Texas who are frustrated seeing Mack win match after match, when even Mack would rather wrestle with his fellow boys, and the parents in Connecticut who feel Andraya has an unfair advantage. For many, this remains a complicated and nuanced issue, and “Changing the Game” handles the subject with grace and illumination.

he “Spirit” animated universe includes the 2002 film “Spirit: Stallion of the Cimarron” and the Netflix series “Spirit Riding Free,” which debuted in 2017 — but while the new DreamWorks theatrical release “Spirit Untamed” is a spinoff/sequel of those previous chapters, it works just fine as a stand-alone, good old-fashioned Western with a trio of 12-year-old girls as the heroes, and that’s pretty cool, right? “Spirit Untamed” reboots the pilot episode of the Netflix series and expands the story to a feature-length adventure filled with madcap action sequences, infectious tunes and the obligatory heartfelt moments involving love and loss and friendship and family. Isabela Merced gives a winning voice performance as one Lucky Prescott, a plucky and rebellious adolescent who has been living under the care of her Aunt Cora (Julianne Moore) on the East Coast ever since she was a little girl and her mother Milagro (Eiza Gonzalez), a famous horse-riding stunt performer, was killed in a tragic accident. After Lucky’s troublesome antics throw a wrench in her grandfather’s political campaign, it’s decided Aunt Cora will accompany Lucky on a train bound for Lucky’s small hometown of Miradero, where they’ll spend the summer with Lucky’s father, Jim (Jake Gyllenhaal), who hasn’t seen his daughter since she was 2 years old and he was too grief-stricken to look after her. It’s on the train ride that Lucky first has a connection with Spirit, the leader of a pack of wild horses that run alongside the train. While Lucky engages in death-defying stunt work only an animated girl could pull off, the horses also draw the attention of Hendricks (Walton Goggins), a cunning and evil horse wrangler who hatches a plan to capture the entire herd and sell them off as workhorses who will spend the rest of their lives doing hard

labor until it literally kills them. When Cora and Lucky arrive in Miradero, Lucky quickly makes friends with the smart and practical Pru (Marsai Martin) and the goofy and sweet Abigail (Mckenna Grace), who teach her the ropes of horse riding and encourage her as she tries to bond with Spirit. The girls are great together; there are no contrived rivalries or jealousies or misunderstandings. They just instantly bond and they’ve got each other’s backs throughout the story. Things aren’t going so smoothly on the home front. Jim looks like a traditional Western hero, but in fact he’s a bit of a hoarder and an eccentric, and he’s spectacularly ill-equipped to suddenly become a father to Lucky. Also, he has one strict rule for Lucky: No riding horses. That’s what killed her mother, and Jim won’t have his daughter at risk. Of course, the one thing Lucky wants to do more than anything else in this world is make a connection with Spirit to the point where the great stallion will allow her to ride with him. After Hendricks and his minions capture Spirit and the herd and force them onto a train bound for an auction, the story becomes more and more fantastical, as Lucky and Pru and Abigail set off on a rescue mission that requires them to pull off feats that would test the limits of most comic book superheroes. As the action gets wilder and wackier, we’re actually a bit less involved in the story. Yes, this is an animated fable, but when the adolescent heroes suddenly have near-superpower abilities, it lowers the emotional stakes. Still, director Elaine Bogan has crafted a rousing adventure story, and songs such as “You Belong (Tu Lugar)”, “Join Up” and “Better With You” are beautifully rendered. So many animated films are multilayered efforts brimming with jokes only the adults will catch, but “Spirit Untamed” is pure and unbridled family fun, pardon the pun. The animation is crisp and light, the voice performances are crackling good and the story of Spirit and the girl who became his best friend is filled with heart. 

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J U N E 13, 2021

FOOD

ummertime, for many, represents an opportunity to enjoy freshly cooked meals while enjoying time outdoors. Taking your dishes from ordinary to extraordinary starts with chef-inspired recipes that call to mind the flavors of the season. Whether you’re a steak enthusiast who enjoys nothing more than a tender cut or a summer burger connoisseur looking for a fresh twist on tradition, these recipes call for high-quality beef from Omaha Steaks. Created by Omaha Steaks Executive Chef David Rose, the Fried Lobster Po Boy Burgers with pimento remoulade sauce for a tempting way to combine two summertime favorites — seafood and burgers. Visit OmahaSteaks.com for more summer meal inspiration. (Family Features) 

Fried Lobster Po Boy Burgers

Recipe courtesy of Omaha Steaks Executive Chef David Rose Prep time: about 20 minutes Cook time: about 20 minutes Servings: 2 Pimento Remoulade 1/2 cup mayonnaise 1 1/2 tablespoons minced pimentos 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard 1 tablespoon minced bread and butter pickles 1 pepperoncino (seeded and minced) 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice 3 dashes hot sauce kosher salt, to taste

Fried Lobster Tails: Vegetable oil, for frying 1/2 cup all-purpose flour 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, divided 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, divided 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika 1 large egg 1 tablespoon water 2 dashes hot sauce 1/4 cup potato chips, finely blended in food processor 1/3 cup panko breadcrumbs

1 tablespoon minced flat leaf Italian parsley 2 Omaha Steaks lobster tails (5 ounces each)

Cheeseburgers 1 pound Omaha Steaks premium ground beef salt, to taste freshly ground black pepper, to taste 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, at room temperature 2 brioche buns 2 slices yellow cheddar cheese 3 leaves romaine lettuce, shredded To make pimento remoulade: In small bowl, mix mayonnaise, pimentos, mustard, pickles, pepperoncino, paprika, garlic powder, black pepper, lemon juice and hot sauce until well incorporated. Season with salt, to taste. To make fried lobster tails: Preheat grill to 400 F and add oil to 10-inch cast-iron pan about 1/2-inch deep. In medium bowl, whisk flour, 1/4 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon pepper, garlic powder and smoked paprika until well incorporated. Set aside. In separate medium bowl, whisk egg, water and hot sauce. Set aside. In third medium bowl, whisk potato chips, panko breadcrumbs and parsley until well incorporated. Set aside. Cut lobster tails in half lengthwise, remove meat from shell and season with remaining kosher salt and black pepper.

Toss halved lobster tails in flour mixture first, egg mixture second then potato chip mixture third, coating thoroughly. Fry lobster tails 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Close grill lid between flipping. To make cheeseburgers: Preheat grill to 450 F using direct heat. Form ground beef into two 1/2 pound patties, each about 1/2-inch thick. Using thumb, make dimple in center of each patty to help cook evenly. Season both sides of burger with salt and pepper, to taste. Spread butter on each cut side of buns. Grill burgers 4-5 minutes per side for medium doneness. Add one slice cheddar cheese on each burger, close lid and grill about 30 seconds to melt cheese. Remove patties from grill to clean plate. Place buns cut sides down on grill grates and toast 20-30 sec onds, or until well toasted, being careful to avoid burning. To assemble Place desired remoulade on buns. Place cheeseburgers on bottom buns. Top each with two fried lobster tail halves. Place handful shredded lettuce on lobster tails. Top with buns. 

J U N E 13, 2021

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 1 3

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

Irish rock band Young Dubliners at The Canyon

he Young Dubliners have built a fervent fan base comparable to that of jam band rockers like Phish and Dave Matthews Band. From their humble beginnings at the Irish Rover, the band evolved through various personnel changes into a pugnacious, crazy but

coolly irresistible force of nature. “Even with all the touring we do, the thing that keeps us going is the one thing that never gets old,” says guitarist/vocalist Keith Roberts. “And that’s playing those older songs people love and then mixing in a new song and hearing a positive, excited reaction from the

crowd for the first time. “We’ve had our share of tough gigs too, but all it takes is that one great show, those perfect moments of band and audience communication, to appreciate what we’re doing up there and why. “It’s all about the joy of performing, watching the people dance

and hearing them sing along.” You can be part of the excitement when The Young Dubliners perform at The Canyon Santa Clarita on June 19. Tickets are available through Ticketmaster, or The Canyon box office (888) 645-5006. 

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J U N E 13, 2021

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J U N E 13, 2021

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 1 5

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

How to choose the right pair of sunglasses

unscreen is essential to protect skin against potential sun damage, but what about keeping the eyes safe from the sun? Are the eyes vulnerable to significant sun-related damage as well? According to the Calvert Ophthalmology Center, ultraviolet rays from the sun can contribute to various eye problems. These can range from temporary vision loss to macular degeneration. When spending time in the sun, it’s vital that individuals take steps to protect their eyes. One of the ways to do just that is to wear sunglasses. All sunglasses are not created equal. Quality sunglasses protect the eyes from UV rays, reduce eyestrain in bright conditions and protect the eyes from flying debris. Here’s how to find the right pair of sunglasses for you. Check the UV rating Sunglasses should block 100% of both UVA and UVB rays. UV rays can contribute to cataracts and even destroy the retina, which is the lining at the back of the eyes. In addition, UV light can cause changes in the cells of the eyes that may produce discomfort or even lead to cancer. Make sure the label indicates that the sunglasses protect against UVA and UVB rays. Wear large sunglasses The more coverage from

running, biking and hiking. They’re lightweight and fit tightly so they stay on while exercising. Their frame and lens materials also may be more impact-resistant than casual sunglasses. Glacier glasses are sport sunglasses that protect the eyes from intense light at high altitudes and against reflections from snow.

sunglasses the better. The American Optometric Association advises that oversized or wraparound sunglasses are best, as they can cut down on the UV rays entering the eye from the side. Don’t be fooled by dark lenses Dark lenses do not necessarily block more UV rays than light-colored lenses. It is important to look at the label to see the UV rating. Select functional sunglasses The sporting goods experts at REI state that certain sunglasses are specifically designed for certain activities. Sport sunglasses, for example are designed for

Know the functions of polarized lenses Polarization helps reduce glare coming off of reflective surfaces, such as water. Note that polarization will not offer more protection from the sun, but it makes engaging in certain activities more comfortable. Recognize that the color of lenses also helps In addition to polarization, the color of lenses can affect how much visible light reaches the eyes and affects clarity. Brown, gray and green are ideal for everyday use and most outdoor activities. Light colors like rose, yellow and amber are good in low to moderate light conditions. They can improve the visibility of objects and make surroundings seem brighter. Shop smart when selecting sunglasses to keep eyes healthy and comfortable. (MC) 

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J U N E 13, 2021

THINGSTODO

RAFTING

Continued from page 7

Sacramento River

The Upper Sacramento River is an excellent Northern California whitewater rafting trip, providing pure fun on 50-plus rapids in its nearly continuous 30 miles of white water. However, for more family-friendly adventures head to Redding. Rafting is a great way for river novices to get comfortable with the current, and depending on the stretch of water, anyone over age 4 can join in. With the Sacramento River running right through town, it’s easy to plan for an afternoon of rafting, and the most common trip — from Redding to Anderson — will take you under six bridges (including Sundial Bridge) and through some of Northern California’s most beautiful stretches.

North Fork of the Yuba River

The free-flowing North Yuba River is a unique rafting experience for the adventurous first timer or return rafter. The nearby mining towns of Downieville and Sierra City offer restaurants, lodging and camping options, saloons and historic landmarks.

Upper Cache Creek

This is a great place for do-it-yourself river rafting on a friendly waterway. If you just want to get your feet wet, but don’t want a white-knuckle adventure, sign up for a do-it-yourself float on Upper Cache Creek, about two hours northeast of San Francisco. Paddle your own rubber raft through the foamy-but-friendly rapids of Cache Canyon. These are tame Class II rapids with a couple of keepyou-on-your-toes Class IIIs that offer brief thrills. One- and two-day DIY trips start near the Central Valley town of Rumsey along State Highway 16. While you can just go cool-off for a day, the two-day trip runs the full 20 miles of Cache Creek’s sheer volcanic canyon … a wonderfully scenic mini-adventure.

Lower Klamath River

The perfect kid-friendly river with swimming holes, wildlife and waterfalls. Hook up with one of several outfitters that offer fun, family adventures on this beautiful river. Turn your landlocked toddler into a happy

Tours and Expeditions O.A.R.S. www.oars.com

The North Yuba River provides a unique experience. It leads you past the mining town of Downieville, where one can lodge and camp.

All-Outdoors www.aorafting.com Tributary Whitewater Tours whitewatertours.com American Whitewater Expeditions www.americanwhitewater.com American River Raft Rentals raftrentals.com  river rat with a three-day, two-night camping and rafting trip on the warm waters of the Lower Klamath. The mellow Class II rapids are just splashy enough to be exciting for kids, yet not too nerve-wracking for mom and dad. Parents can kick back while river guides do all the work: set up camp, fix meals, explain the region’s fascinating mining history and teach the kids how to look for Bigfoot. Children as young as 4 are welcome, and they don’t need to know how to swim; personal floatation devices keep everyone safe. The whimsical name of the trip’s toughest rapid … Dragon’s Tooth, says it all. Enjoy the Klamath’s sandy beaches and take a hike through the rainforest of Ukonom Creek, where two sideby-side waterfalls cascade into a deep swimming hole. Bald eagles and ospreys soar above the alder- and fir-lined canyon, and beavers and river otters glide through the water. Trips start in Happy Camp, an hour and a half drive west of Yreka, so it’s easy to combine this watery adventure with a visit to Redwood National and State Parks.

Valley. Rent an inflatable four-person raft at Half Dome Village Recreation Center and float three miles downriver, passing many of Yosemite’s most famous landmarks, including El Capitan and Yosemite Falls.

Tuolumne River

The Tuolumne River is the crown jewel of California whitewater rafting trips. It’s a true “escape from civilization” on this wet-and-wild river. You’ll see a rugged land of deep gorges and forests as wild as you can get

in California. Known simply as “the T,” this designated “Wild and Scenic” section of river often gets the nod as having some of the best whitewater in California. Class IV rapids are the rule, not the exception. Clavey Falls, a series of three staircases, creates the biggest drama. Graduates of “the T” might want to try a float on the Upper T, better known as Cherry Creek … an even more thrilling whitewater stretch. 

Merced River

The Merced River offers two completely different experiences. If you’re searching for shoot-the-rapids thrills and chills on a family-friendly river rafting trip and an incredibly scenic float, you want to head down a designated Wild and Scenic River stretch of the Merced. The 16 miles of river below El Portal include several rollercoaster-like Class III-IV rapids. You can float the Merced inside Yosemite, too, but you’ll be drifting along at an ultra-mellow pace. In June and July, rafting is one of the best ways to sightsee in busy Yosemite

Class IV (intermediate) and Class V (advanced) rivers are usually rougher and reserved for those with experience.

J U N E 13, 2021

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 1 7

Brighten your garden with wild bird feeders

GARDENING

ith all the constraints people lived through in 2020, many turned to their own backyards — nature, in particular — for hope, solace, wonder and even entertainment. Despite the worldwide crisis, nature’s normalcy remained intact; flowers continued to bloom, bees continued to pollinate and birds continued to fly and forage food. Feeding birds can be enjoyable for any age group and provide stress relief for all who partake. A University of Exeter study, focused on nature’s impact on humans in suburban and urban areas, found lower levels of depression, anxiety and stress were associated with the number of birds people saw during afternoons at home. The benefits of birdwatching come from seeing lots of birds — quantity not “quality” — the study found. People “felt relaxed and connected to nature when they watched birds in their gardens,” researchers said. These feelings increased with the level of bird feeding in the yard. For millions working and schooling from home, this stress reduction was an unintended bonus. Data from 2020 shows sales of bird feed, feeders, nesting boxes and bird houses spiked as interest in backyard birds soared while people spent more time at home. Interest in birding isn’t slowing down. If you haven’t tried attracting

birds to your backyard, now is a perfect opportunity to start. The experts at Cole’s Wild Bird Products Co. offer these bird feed and feeder basics to attract more birds to your backyard.

Feeders

Birdseed Not all birdseed is created equal. Look for quality blends without cheap filler like red millet and oats. All-natural seed containing no chemicals or mineral oil is safe and more appealing to birds. Top seed picks include all-natural black oil sunflower and Cole’s “Hot Meats” (sunflower meats infused with habanero chili peppers that birds love and squirrels dislike). Or an option like Special Feeder blend, packed with favorites including black oil sunflower, sunflower meats and pecans, attracts the greatest number of wild birds. Offering a wide variety, Cole’s feed is researched and specifically formulated to attract certain bird species, the largest number of birds and the greatest variety of birds. Insects and Worms A healthy, lush lawn is one of the best ways to feed birds that prefer insects and worms. You can supplement birds’ diets by serving dried mealworms in a packaged variety that’s easier to feed and less messy than live mealworms. Mealworms are packed with energy and contain essential nutrients, fat and protein. Fresh Fruit Apples, orange halves and bananas are favored fruits. Suet Perfect for insect-eating birds,

suet is a high-fat food that provides abundant calories, rich nutrition and is a high-energy treat. Using the right feeders and high-quality feed can enhance your backyard and entice more birds, bringing stress relief and enjoyment. For more information on attracting birds to your backyard, visit coleswild bird.com. (Family Features) 

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A variety of bird feeder types placed at different heights attract more birds than one feeder featuring one seed type. Start with two feeder types that accommodate most feed options. Bowl feeders serve not only seeds but also dried mealworms, fruit and suet. An option like Cole’s Bountiful Bowl Feeder comes with an adjustable dome cover you can raise or lower to prevent larger birds and squirrels from getting to food and protect it from rain. Traditional tube feeders are all-purpose options for bird feeding, especially for small birds that cling. For example, the Terrific Tube Feeder is made with state-of-the-art materials to prevent warping and discoloration and includes a quick-clean, removable base to make cleaning fast and easy. Just push a button and the bottom of the feeder pops off for easy access to the inside. Rinse the feeder with soapy water, dunk it into a water-bleach solution at a concentration of 9-to-1, rinse, dry and reattach the bottom. Regular cleaning of feeders is essential for preventing mold, germs and disease.

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J U N E 13, 2021

PETS

Ways you can support your pet’s immune system

p to 70% of a pet’s immune system is contained within his or her digestive system. “The digestive tract has immune cells that provide surveillance and are the front-line protectors to catch potential issues when pets eat something that’s not good for them,” said Michael Hayek, Ph.D., director of companion animal technical innovation for Exclusive® Pet Foods. “Since the digestive tract is so large, these cells comprise a large percentage of the total immune activity in dogs and cats.” To encourage owners to learn more about the importance of pets’ digestion and how it supports their overall health, Exclusive Pet Foods with the Comfort Care™ Digestive Health Support System has designated August as Pet Digestive Health Month. Hayek underscores the importance of monitoring what dogs and cats eat by offering these tips:

Limit or avoid human food

Resisting an adorable, begging, furry face can be difficult. Hayek suggests reaching for a few extra kibbles or a treat formulated for the nutrition of cats and dogs. However, remember to also limit the number of treats each day.

Avoid extreme stress

Family vacations are a good example. If boarding your pets, keeping them on a consistent diet can support digestive health until they are back to a normal routine.

Be aware of what your pets could get into Keep garbage covered or in an enclosed space. Look around for small items pets could ingest.

Look for anything in your yard they shouldn’t eat, and make sure dangerous foods such as chocolate are out of reach. “Dogs are naturally curious and want to explore everything,” Hayek said. “I guess you could say they eat first and ask questions later. Having things in the house or backyard they should not get into may be the biggest threat to their digestive health.” To support overall digestive health, it’s also important for owners to provide pets with a food with ingredients selected for ease of digestion. For example, the Comfort Care Digestive Health Support System in Exclusive Signature pet foods is composed of a combination of fiber (beet pulp), prebiotics (chicory root or yeast) and probiotics. A proprietary yeast is also used as part of the system. The company has conducted research that demonstrated this particular combination supports digestive health when present in the formula. Hayek recommends, along with providing the right combination of fiber, prebiotics and probiotics, owners consult their pets’ veterinarians if particular problems persist. For more information, please visit exclusivesignature.com. (Family Features) 

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J U N E 13, 2021

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 2 1

K I D S & FA M I LY

Donna’s Day: Creative Family Fun

Too good to be true slow-cooker beef tacos with seasoning mix. Reduce the amount according to taste. Place meat in slow cooker. If using onion, spread slices evenly over the meat. No need to add water.

By Donna Erickson Signal Contributing Writer

t’s finally time to share my family’s favorite “Too Good to Be True Slow-Cooker Beef Tacos” recipe. Passed on by word of mouth from one neighbor to the other, it’s a recipe that’s so easy to remember that I’ve just never taken the time to write it down. Simply put: “Place pot roast sprinkled with taco seasoning in a slow cooker. Set on high and cook five to six hours. Spoon tender, shredded beef into warm soft taco shells and add favorite fillings.” That’s it! No-fail, no-fuss cooking that our busy lifestyles demand when we want to gather friends together for a robust and tasty evening meal.

SLOW-COOKER BEEF TACOS

2-1/2 to 3 pound boneless beef chuck pot roast, trimmed of fat 1 ounce package taco seasoning

2. Cover, set on high and cook for five to six hours or until meat is tender and easily falls apart. Remove from slow cooker with a large slotted spoon. 3. Using two forks, shred the beef into a large bowl. Add onion and remaining warm juices from the slow cooker. Toss lightly to keep moist. 4. To serve, spoon meat into warm soft taco shells. Add favorite toppings. Makes 12 tacos. 1 12

mix, such as Old El Paso brand medium onion, peeled and sliced (optional) flour tortillas

Toppings according to taste: cilantro,

chopped tomatoes, chili peppers and onions, shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, guacamole, salsa, squeeze of lime juice 1. Sprinkle both sides of meat

TI For a spicy pot-roast dinner, follow above steps. After three and a half hours in the slow cooker, add six peeled and quartered potatoes and six medium carrots, halved crosswise and lengthwise, on top of the meat. Add pepper and 1/4 teaspoon salt. When meat and vegetables are tender, about two hours later, remove meat and vegetables with a slotted spoon and place on a serving platter. Spoon drippings over meat, and serve with a fresh green salad. Serves 6. Donna Erickson’s award-winning series “Donna’s Day” is airing on public television nationwide. To find more of her creative family recipes and activities, visit www.donnasday.com and link to the Donna’s Day Facebook fan page. Her latest book is “Donna Erickson’s Fabulous Funstuff for Families.”  © 2020 Donna Erickson Distributed by King Features Synd.

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SOLUTIONS

PUZZLES

J U N E 13, 2021

CROSSWORD TIME

J U N E 13, 2021

Opinion

S U N D AY S I G N A L · 2 3

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

READERLETTERS

Heartbreak and Hope Re: Leon Worden’s column, June 4. Leon: I just read your column about your boy; your son, Jake. My heart broke into several pieces. I am so moved by your words and the tragic tale of such a young man with so many sunlit days ahead. I have two grown sons and one may very well be struggling with chemical substances. He won’t talk to me. I have not had a drink since Oct. 16, 1977. My heart is broken for you and yours. But in a strange way, I also thank you for reminding all of us the pain of such a loss, accidental as it may be. May all that is mighty surround you and yours with strength, wisdom and the hope your words prevent such a horrendous tragedy from tearing through another family. Godspeed, old friend. Godspeed. Steve Whitmore Los Angeles

A True Believer or a Path to Power? I’ve often wondered about your columnist, Gary Horton. I’ve read his pieces, and I took a good shot at one of them (his recent directive to do our “duty” by getting vaccinated), but his piece (June 2) clinched it. He is significantly more emotional than he is rational, and more wrong than he is right. I think with Mr. Horton there is no right or wrong, there is only his view and anyone who disagrees with his view – another sign of a liberal. I won’t get into the details of the article itself because it would be a reiteration of my statements on the fallacies of the left when it comes to voting laws, among their many other fallacies. These issues are superficial symptoms of something far more fundamental, so let’s sweep all of those incidental trivialities clean off the table. The fundamental here is the motivation for people in places of civic leadership, and there are only two: True Believer. Path to Power. In that sense I see Mr. Horton being on a path to power. I say that because I don’t think he really believes in anything — not fairness, not justice, and certainly not democracy. He rails against the very democracy that allows people to do what they are doing. He complains when people are allowed to do things with which he disagrees. And IT IS DEMOCRACY, Mr. Horton, that allows that to happen. Just because it isn’t going your way doesn’t make it an authoritarian dictatorship. All it means is that not everyone thinks the way you do – and that’s not a bad thing. P.S. Gary Horton should live in Iran for a few years to see what voter suppression really looks like. Arthur G. Saginian Santa Clarita Submit a Letter to the Editor

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

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

Seek First to Understand By David Hegg

ave you ever encountered this scenario? Someone comes to you with a gripe. There are really mad at you for something and as they begin berating you it is apparent they just don’t have the facts. So, you jump in with “that’s not true at all! In fact, you don’t know the whole story! You are taking my words and actions out of context and twisting them into something horrible. I thought we were friends. Friends don’t do that to one another. I can’t believe you’d do such a thing …” and on and on. Pretty soon the original gripe is forgotten as two people engage in a bitter battle, hurling words like daggers at the heart. Days later when you each try to explain what happened, it will be about the process, with the original charge all but forgotten. I have been on both sides of this. And while being the target of unfair criticism is unsettling, I have found greater regret when I got offended to quickly, assumed too much, and charged boldly into accusations without knowing all the facts. Life and conflict are seldom as simple as we assume. It is all too easy to fire up our anger based on half-truths, gossip and innuendo. We end up extrapolating meager evidence into outrageous conclusions that drive us into relational conflict, armed with mean-spirited, hurtful words. And it is simply a “no-win” situation. If we realize, on hearing the rest of the story, that we’ve been wrong in our assessment, the humiliation is hard to swallow. But if our criticism is met with anger and resentment, we end up injuring a relationship and even losing a friend. So what to do? I have found that using three simple words is a much better option. Let’s say you come to think that someone else is being hurtful to you or harmful to others. Or maybe you hear about a decision that was made that seems wrong-headed. Instead of beginning to weave your own tapestry of what and why, approach the person in question and make

a simple request. “Help me understand …” It might be, “Help me understand if what I heard about the decision is true, and help me understand the thinking behind it.” Or, “Help me understand what you were trying to do when you …” Or, “Help me understand why so and so is telling folks that you said …” You get the point. The reason behind this approach is so simple, but so good. Making this request frames the discussion as a mutual pursuit of truth rather than assignment of blame. Few of us react well when accused without the chance to give our side of the story. Nobody likes that kind of surprise. And most of us aren’t at our best when charged and convicted in the court of someone’s mind. We lash out, and that only exacerbates the situation, and the war is on. But pursuing truth in a reasonable, unbiased way will also mean learning to keep our emotions in check until we actually have all the facts. It will mean shunning gossip, avoiding ungrounded conclusions, and restraining our natural tendency to think the worst of people and situations. When we seek first to understand, we are allowing others the opportunity we would want for ourselves if the situation were reversed. Approaching others with a winsome and sincere desire to understand rather than condemn is the noble and virtuous way to start. After all, dealing with conflict honorably is foundational to healthy relationships. Conflict is inevitable. We are different, from different backgrounds, with different views, preferences, experiences and values. These differences crash into one another, and life gets tense. The most natural response is anger, invective and bitterness. But those who deal with differences differently end up happier, with much less regret, and overall healthier lives. And I think that’s pretty easy to understand. Local resident David Hegg is senior pastor of Grace Baptist Church. “Ethically Speaking” appears Sundays. 

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