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Explor E th E city’s p ublic Art
By Michele E. Buttelman Signal Staff Writer
In 2009, the Santa Clarita City Council demonstrated its commitment to public art when it founded the Santa Clarita Arts Commission.
The council approved the Arts Master Plan in 2016 which has become the guiding document to provide arts, entertainment and cultural development throughout the city.
In essence, the entire city is an outdoor art gallery with murals, sidewalk poetry and sculpture.
This tour of select public art also offers the benefit of exploring the city itself.
Newhall
Start your tour of public art in Old Town Newhall. Much of the public art in Newhall revolves around’s Santa Clarita’s “western” heritage.
Stop 1 Adventures in Fantasy (1976)
Old Town Newhall Library, 24500 Main St.
Type Acrylic mural
This mural depicts a stagecoach pulled by a team of six horses and riding through a valley dotted with scrub oaks. The mural was saved after its original home in Newhall’s historic Pardee House was moved to Heritage Junction.
Stop 2 Walk of Western Stars (2007)
24254 Main St.
Artists Victoria Sulski and Peter Bartczak
Type Acrylic mural on exterior wall.
Santa Clarita’s rich western movie history is depicted in this mural located near Old Town Newhall’s Walk of Western Stars which honors actors, directors and others.
Stop 3 History of Santa Clarita’s Southern Hotel (2007)
24275 Main St.
Type Acrylic mural on exterior wall.
The Southern Hotel, known as the finest hotel
The Adventures in Fantasy mural is located in the Old Town Newhall Library.
south of San Francisco, sat on the corner of Railroad Avenue and Market Street from 1878 until it burned down in October of 1888.
Stop 4 Willie Johnston Bronze Sculpture (2005) Veterans Historical Plaza, 24275 Walnut St. Eleven-year-old William J. Johnston Jr. was presented the Congressional Medal of Honor by President Abraham Lincoln in 1863 for gallantry during the Civil War.
Canyon Country
After visiting the public art found in Newhall hop onto the Antelope Valley Freeway and head to Canyon Country.
Stop 1 California Scape (2020) 17468 Honey Maple St., Fair Oaks Ranch Park. Type Ozark light sandstone sculpture Inspiration for “California Scape” was drawn from the larger Santa Clarita Valley landscape.
Stop 2 Friends Stone Sculpture (2011) Canyon Country Park, 17615 Soledad Canyon Road
This large-scale art project consists of two sculptures, a jogger and a dog, both carved out of limestone.
Stop 3 Communitree Sculpture (2021)
Canyon Country Community Center, 18410 Sierra Highway
The sculpture of stainless steel, kinetic “leaves” of steel and acrylic plexiglass was designed to be the iconic “Gateway” for the city’s newest community center. The unique, colorful tree symbolizes strength and unity.
Stop 4 Simi Dabah Sculpture Collection (2014) College of the Canyons, Canyon Country Campus, 17200 Sierra Highway
Adventures in Fantasy
PHOTO COURTESY CITY OF SANTA CLARITA.
The Cowboy Walk of Western Stars began in 1981 as a way of honoring Western film, stage, television and radio personalities. PHOTO CREDIT MARTIN TERRENCE
NEWS FEATURE
The History of America’s Independence Day
Few summertime holidays elicit as much excitement as the Fourth of July, also known as Independence Day in the United States.
Each year, family, friends and revelers anticipate the arrival of the holiday so they can host barbecues, enjoy the sun, listen to their favorite summertime tunes, and commemorate the freedoms afforded by the monumental events that led to the holiday’s establishment.
Independence Day became a federal holiday in 1941, but July 4th has stood as the birth of American independence for much longer. July 4th marks a pivotal moment in the American Revolution.
According to PBS, the colonies were forced to pay taxes to England’s King George III despite having no representation in the British Parliament. “Taxation without representation” became a battle cry and was one of several grievances colonists had
“Taxation without representation.”
with Great Britain.
Conflict between the colonies had been going on for at least a year before the colonies convened a Continental Congress in Philadelphia in June of 1776, says Military.com.
On July 2, 1776, the Continental Congress voted in favor of independence from England. Two days later, on July 4, 1776, delegates from the 13 colonies adopted the Declaration of Independence.
The Declaration of Independence is an historic document drafted by Thomas Jefferson. Jefferson was considered the strongest and most eloquent writer of the declaration writing committee charged with putting the colonies’ sentiments into words.
Richard Henry Lee of Virginia was
Why is Independence Day celebrated on July 4th?
The Continental Congress declared its independence from Great Britain on July 2, 1776. If that date raises an eyebrow, it should. Independence Day in the United States has long been celebrated on July 4th, which would seem to be two days late. But upon closer examination, it seems Americans are not really celebrating their independence two days later than they should be.
According to the National Constitution Center, the Continental Congress approved a resolution declaring its independence from Great Britain on July 2. However, a document still needed to be drafted to explain the decision to the general public. Such a document was already in
the works, but it took two days for the men of Congress to agree on a final version. The resulting document, known as the Declaration of Independence, was sent to John Dunlap, an Irish printer who served under George Washington during the American Revolutionary War, who subsequently printed roughly 200 broadsides.
Still, the Declaration of Independence was not read to the public until July 8, 1776, when Colonel John Nixon did so in Philadelphia on what is now known as Independence Square. It was nearly a month later, on August 2, 1776, when most members of the Continental Congress actually signed the Declaration of Independence in Philadelphia. (MC)
This 2003
of the reverse of the Declaration shows the identifying inscription written at the bottom edge so it could be read without unrolling the parchment. COURTESY THE NATIONAL ARCHIVES
one of the first people to present a resolution for American independence, and his commentary was the impetus for the formal Declaration of Independence. A total of 86 changes were made to Jefferson’s original draft until the final version was adopted.
The signing of the document helped to solidify independence, and eventually lead to the formation of the United States of America.
A total of 56 delegates signed the document. Although John Hancock’s signature is the largest, it did not hold more weight than the other signatures. Rather, rumor has it, Hancock
signed it so large so that the “fat, old King could read it without his spectacles.” However, the National Archives says it was also customary that, since Hancock was the president of the Continental Congress, he be the first person to sign the document centered below the text.
The Pennsylvania Evening Post was the first newspaper to print the Declaration of Independence on July 6, 1776. The first public readings of the Declaration were held in Philadelphia’s Independence Square on July 8, 1776. (MC)
How was it made?
Creating the Parchment Declaration
On July 19, once all 13 colonies had signified their approval of the Declaration of Independence, Congress ordered that it be “fairly engrossed on parchment.” (To “engross” is to write in a large, clear hand.
Timothy Matlack, an assistant to the Secretary of the Congress, was most likely the penman.
Signing the Declaration
On August 2, the journal of the Continental Congress records that “The declaration of independence being engrossed and compared at the table was signed.”
John Hancock, president of the Congress, signed first. The delegates then signed by state from north to south. Some signed after August 2. A few refused. George Washington was away with his troops. Ultimately, 56 delegates signed the Declaration. (National Archives)
Timothy Matlack was a Philadelphia brewer whose fiery patriotism earned him a prominent position in the Revolutionary Period. He served as a delegate to the Continental Congress. As a master penman, he is believed to have hand-lettered the parchment Declaration. COURTESY OF THE MUSEUM OF BOSTON FINE ARTS COLLECTION
photograph
NEWS FEATURE
WALKING TOUR
Continued from page 5
Type Welded steel sculptures
College of the Canyons is host to the largest collection of Simi Dabah sculptures in the world. Installed on both the Valencia and Canyon Country campuses, the unique welded-steel sculptures are created from industrial scrap metal.
Saugus
After leaving the College of the Canyons Canyon Country campus travel over Skyline Ranch Road to Plum Canyon Park in Saugus.
Stop 1 Astral Projection Yellow Sculpture (2023)
18819 Skyline Ranch Road
Type Steel sculpture
This sculpture is part of the Temporary Trailhead Art initiative to bring sculptures from artists across the country to Santa Clarita’s many trails.
Stop 2 Western Tiger Swallowtail & Yerba Santa Central Park, 27150 Bouquet Canyon Road
Date 2012
Type Sculpture of re-purposed materials
The Western Tiger Swallowtail butterfly and Yerba Santa, a perennial evergreen shrub, are native to the Santa Clarita Valley.
Stop 3 Saugus Memorial Obelisks (2021) Central Park, 27150 Bouquet Canyon Road
Type Mosaic tiled sculptures
Located at the Bouquet Creek Trailhead these large mosaic-covered obelisks were created to honor Dominic Michael Blackwell and Gracie Ann Muehlberger, who were victims of the tragic Saugus High School shooting in 2019. Each obelisk is covered in 28,000 Italian mosaic glass tiles, depicting imagery personal to each. The obelisks are a place for reflection, healing and to celebrate the lives of both Dominic and Gracie.
The Birds of Valencia
Central Park
Western Tiger Swallowtail & Yerba Santa sculpture is made of re-purposed materials and is located at Central Park. SIGNAL FILE PHOTO
Stop 4 Bronze Fountain (2007)
Santa Clarita Aquatic Center, 20850 Centre Pointe Parkway.
This bronze statue fountain of children playing around a water pump has developed a nice patina over the years.
Valencia
After viewing the variety of art found in Saugus head to the “heart” of Santa Clarita, Valencia.
Stop 1 Birds of Valencia (2008)
Bridgeport Marketplace, 24061 Newhall Ranch Road
Type Aluminum sculpture
Featuring 65 cast aluminum birds, each with a wingspan of more than five feet, this sculpture rises above a lake surface to over 17 feet in the air.
Stop 2 Bronco Buster (replica)
Santa Clarita City Hall, 23920 Valencia Blvd.
Type Bronze sculpture
Originally created in 1895 by Frederic Remington, this iconic sculpture remains the most popular of all of Remington’s work.
Stop 3 IMAG_NE (2019)
Valencia Library, 23743 W. Valencia Blvd.
Type Fiberglass sculpture
The “Imag_ne” sculpture resembles large oversized Scrabble tiles assembled to spell out the word “Imagine,” except the “I” is missing. The blank space invites people to stand in place of the missing “I.”
Stop 4 Crossroads at Iron Horse Trailhead (2012) Iron Horse Trailhead, 25311 Magic Mountain Parkway
Type Steel sculpture
This trailside art piece is a 15-foot-tall monument with two arms pointing in the general direction of historical landmarks around the SCV, including The Oak of the Golden Dream, Newhall Ranch, Mentryville, Tatavium Native American Indians, Lyons Station and the Golden Spike.
If you want to design your own tour, visit Craft your own tour at https://scpublicart.goodbarber. app.
The Communitree Sculpture was erected in 2021 at the city’s newest community center in Canyon Country. SIGNAL FILE PHOTO
Canyon Country
FROM THE CITY MANAGER
Enjoy Fourth of July Responsibly
By Ken Striplin Santa Clarita City Manager
By day, the sounds of music and laughter fill the streets as we celebrate Independence Day in true Santa Clarita fashion with the annual Fourth of July Parade. By night, we come together as a community and watch as the sky ignites with flashes of color, ending the day of festivities with the Spirit of America Fireworks Spectacular. As we spend the day commemorating our freedom, it is important to keep safety in mind. Please remember that all fireworks are illegal in the City of Santa Clarita, including those marked “safe and sane.”
some looking more innocent than others. One such firework is the sparkler, which can cause serious injury. The National Safety Council reports that sparklers make up 25 percent of emergency room visits for fireworks injuries. Of those injuries, nearly half are sustained by children under the age of five. Sparklers burn very hot and can quickly ignite clothing. They can also leave severe burns on exposed skin, such as hands, face and feet. Consider using glow sticks or confetti cannons as safe alternatives.
in mind that reports will not result in an immediate response. However, these calls are imperative in helping our local Sheriff’s Department to identify hotspots in our community. Please call 9-1-1 only for life-threatening situations.
According to MySafe:LA, approximately 19,500 reported fires are started by fireworks each year. Grass, brush, natural or vegetation and waste fires accounted for the majority of these calls. With our record-breaking rainfall this year, our lush, green hillsides will begin to dry up in the summer sun, leaving us susceptible to wildfires. It is important to keep in mind that even the smallest spark can ignite a devastating blaze.
Fireworks come in all shapes and sizes, with
GRAND
Not only can fireworks cause injury or damage to property, but we ask you to keep in mind those with sound sensitivities. The loud popping of fireworks can trigger PTSD for our Veterans, who have fought so hard to provide us with the freedom we celebrate. Another vulnerable population are our pets. Many animals become frightened by the loud noises, running away from their homes. July 5 has consistently been the busiest day for animal care centers, due to the dogs and cats who fled from the safety of their homes.
Residents can report illegal firework use at any time by calling the Santa Clarita Valley Sheriff’s Station non-emergency line at (661) 260-4000 or by entering a report into the City’s Resident Services Center at SantaClarita.gov/RSC. Please keep
I encourage residents and their families to join us this year at the annual Spirit of America Fireworks Spectacular, kicking off around 9:15 p.m. and watch the night sky light up over Valencia Town Center. Elevate the experience by tuning in to KHTS on AM 1220, who will be broadcasting a patriotic soundtrack paired with the show.
This Fourth of July, keep your friends, family and community safe, and leave the fireworks to the professionals. For more info about fireworks rules and laws, please visit SantaClarita.gov/Emergency-Management. I hope to see you all at our Fourth of July Parade and the Spirit of America Fireworks Spectacular. Happy Independence Day!
Ken Striplin is the City Manager for the City of Santa Clarita and can be reached at kstriplin@santa clarita.gov.
ENTERTAINMENT
Two Mismatched Seniors Hunt Down Their Scammers
By Richard Roeper Signal Contributing Writer
‘Thelma’
(out of four)
Magnolia Pictures presents a film written and directed by Josh Margolin. Rated PG-13. In theaters.
Of all the criminal phishers out there who employ sophisticated and devious means to separate innocent victims from their money, none are more despicable than the scammers who target the elderly, whether it’s via email or text or AI-enhanced phone call. Writer-director Josh Margolin’s grandmother Thelma nearly fell for a senior-targeted scam, an incident that serves as the inspiration for “Thelma,” a warm and witty comedy starring the invaluable character actress June Squibb (“About Schmidt,” “Nebraska,” “Inside Out 2”), who gets her first leading role at the age of 94 and delivers
Sunday-Thursday, June 30-July 4, 2024
a knockout of a performance. This is a pure comfort-viewing experience, filled with authentic characters who talk the way real people talk, even when the situations stretch credulity. Every production design detail
NEWHALL
Lyons Ave.
A Q U I E T P L AC E: DAY O N E C Sun: 10:20 1:30 4:20 7:20; Mon to Thu: 1:30 4:20 7:20
Experience the day the world went quiet
DA D D I O E Sun: 10:20 1:20 4:20 7:20; Mon to Thu: 1:20 4:20 7:20
A young woman and a cabbie strike up the most unexpected conversation resulting in a single, epic remarkable journey
H O R I ZO N: A N A M E R I C A N S AG A C H A P T E R 1 E 12:45 3:50 7:00 Horizon: An American Saga explores the lure of the Old West and how it was won
G H O S T L I G H T E Sun: 10:00 AM
When a construc tion worker unexpec tedly joins a local theater ’s produc tion of Romeo and Juliet, the drama onstage star ts to mirror his own life
T H E B I K E R I D E R S E Sun: 10:00 1:10 4:00 7:10; Mon to Thu: 1:10 4:00 7:10
THE BIKERIDERS, starring Austin Butler, Jodie Comer, Tom Hardy and Norman Reedus, follows the rise of a midwestern motorc ycle club, the Vandals.
T H E L M A C Sun: 10:30 1:00 4:10 7:00; Mon to Wed: 1:00 4:10 7:00
When 93-year- old Thelma Post gets duped by a phone scammer pretending to be her grandson, she sets out on a treacherous quest across the city to reclaim what was taken from her.
I N S I D E O U T 2 B Sun: 10:10 1:10 4:30 7:30; Mon to Thu: 1:10 4:30 7:30
Return to the mind of newly minted teenager Riley just as headquar ters is undergoing a sudden demolition to make room for something entirely unexpec ted: new Emotions!
BA D B OYS R I D E O R D I E E Sun: 10:10 1:00 4:00 7:10; Mon & Tue: 1:00 4:00 7:10
The world’s favorite Bad Boys are back with their iconic mix of edge - of-your seat ac tion and outrageous comedy
D E S P I C A B L E M E 4 B Wed & Thu: 12:45 3:00 5:10 7:30
Gru, Luc y and their girls welcome a new member to the Gru family, Gru Jr , who is intent on tormenting his dad
S O U N D O F H O P E: T H E S TO RY O F P O S S U M T ROT C Thu: 1:00 4:00 7:00
Possum Trot follows Donna and Reverend Mar tin as they ignite a movement of compassion in their East Texas church to adopt some of the most difficult-to -place kids in the foster system
in “Thelma” feels spot-on; when the camera moves through the title character’s home and lingers on the furniture and the knick-knacks and the photographs, you instantly know that an older person lives there. (That’s not a knock on “Grandma Houses,” not at all. There’s just a certain decor, a certain vibe, that we all would recognize.)
Squibb’s Thelma is a widow who lives alone and refuses to even consider the idea she’s losing her independence, though it takes her a long time to move from Point A to Point B, and she’s practically deaf without her hearing aids, and she’d be hopeless on the computer without the help of her goofy but good-hearted slacker grandson Danny (Fred Hechinger, playing a character not so different from the socially awkward son he portrayed on Season 1 of “The White Lotus”).
One afternoon, Thelma gets a call from a distraught Danny, telling her he’s in jail with a broken nose after he hit a pregnant woman while driving. Danny tells Thelma she’s going to get a call from a defense attorney, and sure enough, the phone buzzes, and the attorney tells Thelma she needs to send him $10,000. In cash. To a post office box.
Uh-oh. Thelma tries to reach her daughter Gail (Parker Posey) and her son-in-law Alan (Clark Gregg), but they’re both busy at their respective jobs and they don’t see the calls, so Thelma takes a cab to the post office and mails the 10 grand. A few hours later, when Danny finally wakes up after a night of partying — in his own bed, not in jail, no broken nose, no accident — the reality sinks in. Thelma has been scammed. (Hey, wasn’t this the launching point of the plot of “The Beekeeper”?)
The police say there’s not much that can be done, and Thelma’s family tells her it’s a lesson learned and at least nobody was hurt, but Thelma is having none of that. She’s going to track down these scammers and get her money back. It’s not just about the money. It’s about proving Thelma isn’t “losing it.”
This is when “Thelma” switches into low-key caper mode, with Thelma (perhaps inspired by a re-
cent viewing of “Mission: Impossible — Fallout” with her grandson) determined to exact her revenge and retrieve her cash. With an infectious, jazzy score by Nick Chuba that has echoes of David Holmes’ work on the Soderbergh “Oceans” movies helping to set the tone, Thelma first tries to enlist the help of some old friends she hasn’t seen for some time — but in a morbid but funny twist on the “round up the gang” trope, she learns they’re all dead.
Only then does Thelma reluctantly turn to her late husband’s old friend, a widower named Ben (the late Richard Roundtree in his final film role), who has a tendency to grate on her nerves with his upbeat personality and his chattering about how much he enjoys life in an assisted living facility. Ben winds up teaming up with Thelma, though neither of them is initially thrilled with the idea.
With Thelma’s family worried that she’s had an episode of Transient Global Amnesia, Thelma and Ben run into some troublesome obstacles as their quest veers close to becoming a dangerous folly. Even when “Thelma” indulges in broad comedy, e.g., a motorized scooter chase through the facility, what could be cringey material is handled deftly. This is an action movie, starring a mismatched pair of seniors who make the unwise decision to travel across Los Angeles to track down those scammers. (And hey, Roundtree has some experience playing a sleuth who works the streets.)
The hijinks occasionally take a back seat to some serious business, as when Ben gently but firmly tells Thelma they have to accept the fact they’re “diminished” and “not what we were.” It’s a beautifully played scene, with old pros Squibb and Roundtree turning in captivating and elegantly grounded performances. “Thelma” pushes the limits of plausibility in some late developments, but by that point we’ve been won over, and we’re hoping Thelma and Ben will take down those dastardly scammers.
Quench Your Summer Cravings
In between summer adventures and hot afternoons spent poolside, you're likely looking to combat rising temperatures with a cool, refreshing beverage. This year, quench your thirst with drinks that play up the trendiness of bold flavors.
While many concoctions can help you beat the heat, some gems seem to hit the spot better than others. Consider one of the trendiest beverages that is increasingly becoming available at smoothie and juice bars nationwide but which you can also prepare at home: the tempting, bold taste of the Mangonada. With a harmonious fusion of sweet, spicy and tangy flavors, this thirst-quencher captures the essence of tropical indulgence with the majestic mango at the center of its symphony of flavors.
“Mango not only adds a burst of flavor but also brings a unique depth to the beverage,” said Dan Spellman, director of marketing for the National Mango Board.
Central to the Mangonada is Tajín Fruity Chamoy Sauce and Clásico Seasoning — a zesty blend of chili peppers, lime and sea salt — which are musthave ingredients to make the beverage. They combine to infuse the drink with a subtle kick, balancing the mango's sweetness with a hint of spiciness that hits different.
This beloved beverage has captured the hearts and palates of people worldwide with its bold flavors and vibrant spirit to make summer deliciously unforgettable.
For another take on a classic drink, give this Tangy Chamoy Tropical Daiquiri a try at your next summer cookout. You can enjoy its cool, refreshing flavor with just the right touch of spice from Tajín Fruity Chamoy Hot Sauce with the yellow cap, which is made with natural ingredients but offers a unique fruity and tangy flavor, ideal for pairing with sweet snacks like fruits, smoothies, mangona-
das and ice pops. With no added sugar or coloring, they're perfect for the entire family all summer long. There are thousands of ways to enjoy these unique flavors. To find more refreshing drinks that beat the summer heat, visit tajin.com. (Family Features)
Mangonada
Recipe courtesy of the National Mango Board
1 cup fresh mango cubes, plus 5-6 cubes for garnish, divided ounces fresh mango nectar ounce lime juice
Mangonada
ounces for garnish, divided 1 tablespoon Tajín Clásico Seasoning, for garnish
1 tamarind candy, for garnish (optional)
Measure 1 cup mango cubes, mango nectar, lime juice, ice and agave nectar into blender cup. Blend until smooth.
In separate small dishes, add 1 ounce hot sauce and 1 ounce seasoning.
ounce agave nectar
tablespoons Tajín Fruity Chamoy Hot Sauce, plus 2
Tangy Chamoy Tropical Daiquiri
15 minutes
tablespoons Tajín Fruity Chamoy Hot Sauce
tablespoons Tajín Clásico Seasoning
cup diced pineapple
Dip rim of 14-ounce Collins glass into hot sauce then seasoning to coat. Drizzle remaining hot sauce along inside of glass.
In glass, pour 1 tablespoon chamoy sauce followed by blended Mangonada. Top with remaining fresh mango cubes and sprinkle with additional seasoning. Add tamarind candy to glass, if desired.
1/2 cup orange juice
2 ice cubes
2 tablespoons Tajín Fruity Chamoy Hot Sauce
1 slice pineapple, for garnish
Rim two glasses in hot sauce then in seasoning.
Blend diced pineapple with orange juice, ice and hot sauce; pour into glasses.
Garnish with pineapple slice.
FOURTH OF JULY
CELEBRITY NEWS
QI just started watching the comedy series “It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia.” I know that two people on the series are married in real life. Did they meet on the show?
— G.W.
ADebuting in 2005 and still going strong, this hit FX (and FXX) network sitcom is the longest-running, non-animated comedy series ever, surpassing the previous record holder “The Adventures of Ozzie and Harriet.” It was created by Rob McElhenney, who plays Mac on show, and stars his off-screen wife Kaitlin Olson as Dee, Glenn Howerton as Dennis, and Charlie Day as Charlie. Olson and McElhenney fell in love on the set of “It’s Always Sunny,” but initially kept their romance a secret from their co-stars. They wed two years later and now have two sons. The strikes in Hollywood pushed back production, but there will be a 17th season — just don’t expect it until late 2024 or early 2025.
QWhatever happened to actress Jennifer Love Hewitt? I loved her show “Ghost Whisperer” and would love to see her do a supernatural theme again.
— W.J.
AJennifer Love Hewitt first gained fame as Sarah in the 1990s drama series “Party of Five.” She followed that up with the hit scary film “I Know What You Did Last Summer” before starring in the TV show “Ghost Whisperer,” which ended in 2010 after five seasons. Since then, she’s starred in three other hit series: “The Client List,” “Criminal Minds” and “9-1-1.”
Next up, she’ll star, direct and produce “The Holiday Junkie,” a TV movie for Lifetime later in 2024. Her husband, Brian Hallisay, and their children will also appear in the film. It’s a very personal project for Hewitt about moving on during the winter holiday season while coping with the loss of her mother.
Elaine Frontain Bryant (EVP, head of programming genres for A&E, Lifetime and LMN) stated that “Jennifer is beloved by Lifetime and our viewers. We’re excited to work with her again on this special project near and dear to her and to have it as one of our cornerstones for our ‘It’s a Wonderful Lifetime’ slate.”
In addition, Hewitt launched her marketing and consumer brand The Holiday Junkie last year and is also releasing a book titled “Inheriting Magic,” which is set for publication this December.
QDid Bette Midler get cast as one of the cast members on “The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills” like she wanted? I never heard anything further about it.
— W.M.
ABack in March, film actress Bette Midler (“The First Wives Club”) asked via social media if it was “too late” for her to be a “Real Housewife.” She was in the mood to “talk some s**t” and get paid for it. Alas, her name was not among the cast of the upcoming season, but she does have a new project on the horizon. She’s part of the ensemble cast of the comedy “The Fabulous Four,” which hits theaters this July. Midler stars as a bride whose old college pals (played by Susan Sarandon, Sheryl Lee Ralph and Megan Mullaly) make up her bridal party at her destination wedding.
© 2024 King Features Synd., Inc.
Rob McElhenney and Kaitlin Olson star in “It’s Always Sunny.” PHOTO COURTESY FX
The Friendly Valley Country Club is an active community for SENIORS 55+. We are located a few miles from the San Fernando Valley and about 35 miles from Los Angeles.
The community is guard gated and patrolled 24/7 and features a 9 hole executive course and an 18 hole pitch and putt. There is a lawn bowling court, picnic areas with BBQs, heated pool and a spa. There are many club and card rooms as well as a billiard room.
You can be as active as you want or just relax and enjoy your home.
There is an RV parking lot with a nominal cost per year.
Ellie Lacy or Tim Kinman will be happy to give you a tour of this terrific community and show you the homes that are currently for sale.
Kellar DavisInc.
A Professional Real Estate Corporation
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19310 Avenue of the Oaks Newhall, CA 91321
Monday thru Friday
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Saturday & Sunday 12 pm – 4 pm
Kellar-Davis is your INSIDE source for all things Friendly Valley!
Ellie Lacy & Tim Kinman are your Friendly Valley Specialists
Ellie Lacy CalBRE#0408471 661-341-6226
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Tim Kinman CalBRE# 02015721 (661) 755-8450
TimKinman@ Kellar-Davis.com
SENIOR
Nutrition Tips for Older Adults
Healthy eating is vital at any age, but it can be particularly important for older adults, whose nutritional needs change over time. Not only can a healthy diet help ward off age-related diseases, but giving your body the proper nutrients and maintaining a healthy weight can help you stay active and independent. Here are a few things to consider when it comes to healthy eating for adults 65 and older:
• Consume less red meat and eat more fish. Not only is fish a lean meat that’s healthier on the body, it can help with cognitive health as well.
• Make some swaps with healthier options on dietary staples, like eating brown rice instead of white rice, whole wheat pasta, etc.
• Eat a diet high in fiber and low in sodium. Also, ensure you’re taking in necessary vitamins and minerals, like Vitamin D. Be sure to talk with your doctor about specific nutritional needs for your body.
• Phase in significant changes and avoid going “cold turkey” on kicking sweets, coffee or other vices.
• Try meal planning and preparing
your meals ahead of time. Meal planning helps in buying healthy options from the grocery store.
Dining at Prestige Assisted Living at Lancaster
At Prestige Assisted Living at Lancaster, residents enjoy A Taste of Prestige – our dining program focusing on delicious, nutritious food that best serves the unique dietary needs of older adults.
To learn more about dining at Prestige Assisted Living at Lancaster, or for questions about our community, visit prestigecare.com/Lancaster or call us at (661) 949-2177.
BRAIN
Community
Continued from the previous page
Read And Write Frequently
According to a study in the journal Neurology, regular reading and writing in one’s older years reduced the rate of memory decline by 32 percent. Joining a book club or simply reading more on one’s own can improve cognition. Similarly, writing improves memory and communication abilities and can help strengthen the brain as well.
Drink Healthy Beverages
Tea and coffee can improve alertness and focus, as they’re rich in polyphenols and antioxidants. A Place for Mom says caffeine in these beverages can help solidify new memories. Avoid drinking sugary beverages and limit consumption of alcohol, as neither boasts brain-boosting properties. Keeping the brain sharp is a multilayered process that involves healthy foods and beverages, exercise and brain-stimulating activities. (MC)
SENIOR LIVING
Managing Multiple Medications
Individuals who are 60 and older are accustomed to making routine trips to the pharmacy to fill prescriptions.
As individuals age, their doctors may recommend various prescriptions. Managing multiple medications at once can be difficult, as it can be easy to lose track of which medications have been taken when individuals are prescribed more than one. The National Institutes of Health offers the following tips to help individuals safely manage multiple medications. Maintain an updated list of all medications you take The medication list should include both prescription and over-the-counter medications. OTC medicines include vitamins, supplements and herbal products. Share your medication list with family or close friends A medication list should be accessible, and seniors can even share it with close family members, who can then advise medical professionals like EMTs,
nurses and emergency room doctors which medicines you are taking in emergency situations when you may not be conscious.
Routinely review your medicine list with health care providers and pharmacists Individuals should discuss their medicines with their physicians at each appointment. Ask if all medicines still need to be taken and if dosages should be changed. When visiting specialists, be sure to provide a list of all medications you are taking.
Use a pill organizer A pill organizer makes it easy to manage multiple medications and can help individuals remember which pills they have taken.
Millions of individuals 60 and older take more than one medicine each day. Some simple strategies can ensure seniors safely manage their medications. (MC)
Over the last three years many of us have put off important routine medical screenings. Please discuss with your physician what screenings you may be due for. These routine medical tests can be life-saving.
For more information, call 661.200.1332 or visit henrymayo.com/screenings.
• I hear fine as long as I turn the sound up
• Wearing a hearing aid will make me look old
• I don’t have time to check my hearing
• If you relate to any of these CALL US!
Three Fun Outdoor Exercises
The benefits of spending time in the great outdoors are significant. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, spending time outdoors may improve mental health and help to reduce stress, and the vitamin D the body absorbs while outside can have a positive effect on blood cells and the immune system.
Seniors can benefit from the great outdoors as much as anyone. Vitamin D helps the body absorb calcium, which strengthens bones. That’s especially beneficial for seniors, as the National Council on Aging notes that bone density often decreases after age 50, which can increase the risk of fractures.
tirees, the results of such studies still offer insight into just how valuable it can be to ride a bike.
That’s especially so in women over the age of 50, as a 2021 report from Amgen, Inc., indicated women can lose up to 20% of their bone density within five to seven years of menopause.
Spending time in the great outdoors also provides a social benefit, encouraging individuals from all walks of life, including seniors, to get out of their homes and spend time with other people.
With so much to gain from spending time outside, seniors can consider these three outdoor exercises as they seek to maintain or improve their overall health.
Walking Walking is free and effective. In fact, WebMD notes that a brisk 30-minute walk can improve blood flow, contribute to a stronger heart, strengthen bones, and even help people sleep better at night.
In addition, a 2022 study published in the journal JAMA Neurology found that people between the ages of 40 and 79 who walked about 9,800 steps per day were 51% less likely to develop dementia than people who didn’t walk much at all.
Cycling Riding a bike is both fun and a great form of outdoor exercise. Though many studies regarding the health effects of cycling have looked at the value of riding a bike to work, a scenario that does not apply to re-
For example, a 2020 study published in the journal The Lancet found that people who cycled to work were 24% less likely to die of heart disease and 11% less likely to develop cancer. Seniors, whether they are still working or retired, can incorporate cycling into their daily routines and enjoy all the fun and health benefits that riding a bike provides.
Hiking Hiking is a bit more strenuous than walking, particularly when individuals choose to traverse steep and/or rocky terrain. WebMD notes that hiking after age 60 can help people reduce their risk of falls and fractures; lower their risk for a host of ailments, including coronary heart disease, colon cancer and diabetes; reduce blood pressure, even in adults who have already been diagnosed with hypertension; and maintain healthy bones and joints.
Hiking is not a one-size-fits-all activity, so seniors, especially those who would characterize themselves as novice hikers, are urged to speak with their physicians prior to hiking trails that are not flat.
Seniors can consider these three fun activities and others as they answer the call of the great outdoors. Walking, cycling and hiking offer a great reason to get out of the house and reap the health-related benefits of spending time outside. (MC)
Pet Corner PET
Prepare Your Pets For the Fourth of July Festivities
Many people are eager for Independence Day celebrations in early summer. There is much to be excited about, as festivities often begin in the afternoon with barbecues and pool parties, and commence late at night after fireworks shows that light up the night sky. Still, not everyone enjoys the extra noise and busy nature of July 4th parties, particularly furry members of the family.
Animal control services often report an increase in lost animals between July 4th and July 6th. That’s because the excitement of the holiday puts pets out of their comfort zones.
While pet owners need not cancel their July 4th plans, they should take
heed of the many ways to keep their pets safe during the festivities.
Update Identification
Be sure prior to any July 4th events that pets are wearing collars with
current identification information. If an address or phone number has changed since the last time you updated microchip records, be sure to check the account is current.
Be Careful with Alcoholic Drinks
Party hosts typically serve beer, wine and cocktails. Alcoholic beverages have the potential to poison pets, says the ASPCA. Animals can become very intoxicated, severely depressed or go into comas if they drink alcohol. Keep spirited drinks well out of reach.
Check with the Vet
Many pets are prone to anxiety from loud noises, such as thunderstorms and fireworks, and lots of commotion — something that occurs in spades come July 4th. Some veterinarians recommend a small course of anti-anxiety medication or a sedative See FIREWORKS, page 20
Summer is Here...
Rattlesnake Awareness... Rattlesnake Season is here. Rattlesnake bites can be treated with Anitivenom and Rattlesnake Vaccinations can give you a little more time to get your Pet to Veterinary Care, call for more Information Heatstroke... Heatstroke in dogs is life-threatening and can also result in very serious complications. Recognizing early signs of heatstroke may help you remedy the condition before things get too serious, call for more Information.
Outdoor Air Temperatures and Ground Temperatures differ dramatically with possible Pet Paw Burns
Simple tests: Press your hand on the pavement for about 7 seconds OR if its too hot for your feet, it’s TOO HOT for your pets Paws. and as always, hydrate, hydrate, hydrate! Check this out
Call or Message us at (661) 888-8VET for more Information or to Request an Appointment
18597 Soledad Canyon Road Santa Clarita 91351
(On the Corners of Soledad Canyon Road and Shangri La in the Vallarta Shopping Center) Check out our List of Services or contact us at -- www.scanimalurgentcare.vet
“I
– Becky Robelotto, GDA | TLC Puppy Raiser
FIREWORKS
Continued from page 17
to help pets cope with the stimuli.
Create a Quiet Space
Allow pets to ride out the day in their comfortable, quiet and cozy retreats. If necessary, create a space in an interior room. Cover the pet crate with a blanket and offer favorite toys or bedding to create a soothing environment.
Place Notes on Doors and Gates
While it’s best to keep pets in a
locked room away from the fray, some pets like to socialize with guests and are not bothered by noises. However, alert guests with notes posted on doors and fence gates to check to make sure pets are not trying to escape behind them. All doors should be closed firmly when entering or exiting.
Pick Up Debris
Firework debris can rain down on properties even if you were not shooting off the fireworks. Curious pets may pick it up or eat it, which runs the risk of an upset stomach or even an intestinal blockage. Check your yard before letting pets out to play.
Keep
an Eye on the Grill
Pets can be opportunists, and those burgers and chicken drumsticks smell delicious to pets. Pets that get too close to the grill can become injured. And if pets eat leftovers, they may end up with digestive distress or even be poisoned by foods that are toxic to cats and dogs.
Pets need to be protected during summertime parties like Independence Day celebrations. (MC)
Transform the Outdoors with Impatiens
Gardening enthusiasts, rejoice! The long-awaited moment has arrived — gardening season is officially here. As green thumbs eagerly prepare to embark on their outdoor endeavors, there’s no better time to infuse your surroundings with bursts of color and life. Joining in the spring celebration is Beacon® Impatiens from PanAmerican Seed®, boasting a dazzling array of eight vibrant colors and seven playful mixes. Whether adorning hanging baskets, window boxes or landscapes in the shade, these resilient blooms promise to bring an essence of elegance and allure into your outdoor spaces.
Brighten Up Your Shady Space
Impatiens thrive in less light, so when you’re planning your garden, consider how color can bring your shady areas to life. Beacon® Impatiens make it easy, since their vibrant, cheerful blooms in striking hues create a captivating visual contrast against their dark green foliage. For a truly unique garden aesthetic, blend various shade-loving green textures, like ferns and hostas with a rich assortment of Beacon® Impatiens colors ranging from bright red and coral to white and violet.
When considering spatial arrangement, keep in mind that cool colors such as greens and blues tend to recede into the distance, while warm hues like reds and oranges appear closer, establishing an inviting atmosphere. Further transform your garden or patio into a lively oasis by selecting decorative pots and experimenting with more color combinations, setting an enchanting backdrop for your garden gatherings or backyard parties. Impatiens serve as an excellent addition to any container, seamlessly complementing other shade-loving flowers or plants in pots and hanging baskets, adding a festive flair to your outdoor decor.
Color Combinations & New Varieties
Looking for inspiration to kickstart your shade garden? This season, consider trying out a delightful combination with Beacon® Impatiens, and achieve a winning look by choosing
complementary colors. Pair Beacon® Rose and Violet Shades Impatiens with frothy Euphorbia for a harmonious blend of soft and bold hues. For a striking contrast, combine Beacon® Bright Red Impatiens with statuesque Gryphon Begonia, adding a pop of vibrant color to your shaded spaces.
Create a playful palette by pairing Beacon® White and Coral Impatiens with colorful, leafy Coleus varieties, adding depth and texture to your garden beds. For a classic look, pair Beacon® White with tall, red Salvia, creating a timeless and elegant arrangement. These shade garden recipes offer plenty of options to suit your taste and elevate your outdoor design.
If you love discovering new colors and mixes for your garden each year, the latest Beacon® Impatiens additions for 2024 offer exciting options to consider. Impatiens Beacon® Lipstick boasts a bold, sassy red shade guaranteed to brighten any garden with its vibrant charm.
Additionally, the newly unveiled Impatiens Beacon® Pearl Island Mixture includes an exclusive preview of a “Blue Pearl” variety, not yet available on the market, blended with coral and white blossoms. This one-of-akind combination pays homage to the picturesque Pearl Island Lighthouse in Nova Scotia, evoking a sense of coastal serenity and elegance.
Caring for Impatiens
Impatiens are an easy-to-grow plant for beginner gardeners. If it’s your first time planting them, there are a few important tips to keep in mind. First, ensure you select a shaded area for your Beacon® Impatiens, although
partial shade can suffice if it receives morning sunlight followed by shade for the rest of the day during spring and summer.
Pay attention to the spacing of your plants, as it influences their height. Planting impatiens closer together results in taller growth, with Beacon® Impatiens reaching heights of 14 to 18 inches.
Concerned about impatiens downy mildew (IDM)? This is not an issue with Beacon® Impatiens, as they boast high resistance to this disease, providing durable color all season without the risk of plant loss. When it comes to watering, it is recommended to maintain a balance; while impatiens require at least 2 inches of water per week in garden beds, daily watering is necessary for those in containers or window boxes. Avoid over-watering to prevent waterlogged roots, which impede growth. Lastly, fertilizing regularly, approximately every 2 weeks, ensures optimal growth for Beacon® Impatiens. Consider using
slow-release fertilizer upon planting and reapplication midway through summer.
By following these gardenerfriendly tips, you’ll soon enjoy vibrant, long-lasting blooms that illuminate your shaded garden. Visit BeaconImpatiens.com to learn more ways to create a colorful shade garden that will last through the season. (BPT)
SOLUTIONS
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.
READER LETTERS
A New Low in California
After reading the article on the front page of today’s Signal (June 26) regarding the cuts to the senior meal programs, I am angered and saddened.
The state has billions to spend on proudly being a sanctuary state, on homeless encampments that only get bigger, crime that doesn’t get better and a train to nowhere, but to balance the state budget, they need $5.1 million from the senior meals program right here in Santa Clarita. This cut means 900 senior taxpayers will no longer receive free meals! This might be the only meal they eat that day. Can this state stoop any lower?
Sandy Cassidy Valencia
Democracy Under Attack from Both Sides
It seems some Democrats are giddy with delight and are celebrating the unanimous guilty verdicts against former President Donald Trump. It’s vulgar and tasteless, but such is the nature of some.
My advice is to enjoy the “victory” while it lasts. Democrats have no idea what’s in store for them. They have no idea what they have set in motion and what will eventually come of it. Trying to exclude half the country from democracy is not democracy.
Not that Republicans aren’t guilty of the same offense, but Democrats ARE guilty of that offense. Each, in their own way, IS destroying democracy.
They may not be working together, this is not a conspiracy, but they are, whether consciously or not, working toward the same goal.
Arthur Saginian
Santa Clarita
Waiting for an Apology?
Quick poll: Has anyone you know personally apologized to you for their overreaction to COVID-19? Has anyone apologized to you for insisting that you follow those ridiculous rules?
Test after test has shown that cloth masks don’t do a thing to protect people and even surgical masks don’t help in the real world. Social distancing rules proved to have no impact on transmission when dealing with an airborne virus.
And the experimental mRNA vaccines were unable to prevent either infection or transmission.
And yet all these measures— and more — were not only scrupulously followed by the gullible, they were imposed upon others by the controlling, with scorn and shame heaped upon the unwilling by both of the above.
And yet the unwilling were exactly right in every case. Apologies are due, but has anyone — anyone at all — received even one such apology, from anybody?
Rob Kerchner
Santa Clarita
ETHICALLY SPEAKING
Living to Serve
By David Hegg
The past months have been a constant barrage of stories about tragedy. Horror in Newtown, bombs in Boston, flooding in the Midwest, fires in SoCal … all bringing loss of life, loss of property, and loss of our sense of wellbeing. But in every case, there were also stories of exceptional devotion to duty, to courage, and to an essential ingredient in a healthy society: sacrificial service. Every day, our heroes are on their posts. The law enforcement, fire, civic and medical professionals who constantly train and prepare stand ready to rush in – despite the risks and unknowns – to put their lives and knowledge at the disposal of those in need. They do it without thought to their own comfort, without regard for the dangers involved, and they do it well … again and again and again. Their selflessness is a beacon of inspiration in a world often consumed by self-interest.
to follow him he first demanded that they come to understand the value of denying self. That is, to stop living only for self, learn to live beyond their own interests, and find great purpose in serving others and looking out for their interests. One of his biographers would later write, “He didn’t come to be served, but to serve and give his life to rescue others.”
Much has been made about America’s “greatest generation,” those who left farms and families to battle the Axis powers and then returned to build a great post-war nation. They were characterized by this same trait: sacrificial service to others. Even today when some of them are interviewed regarding their achievements, they simply remind us that they weren’t doing anything extraordinary. They were only doing what was right and pouring their lives into what was best for their comrades and their country.
Submit a Letter to the Editor
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As our society increasingly becomes a mass of self-centered consumers driven to get more and more in a feverish rush for self-gratification, it is worth considering what drives our first responders to give their all to help those they don’t even know.
At the heart of it all is an intentional conviction that the lives and safety of others are worth putting their own lives on the line. Simply put, they live to serve. They have chosen to dedicate their lives to making sure others are safe and properly cared for. And even further down in their psyche is a belief that the lives of other people matter greatly, even more than their own if the situation calls for it. This kind of sacrificial thinking is not just humbling and rare, it is absolutely essential to the existence of a well-ordered, noble and successful society. It is a call to action, a plea for a societal shift toward sacrificial service. Frankly, we need more of this from all of us.
As a Christian pastor, my boss – a man named Jesus – understood the necessity of self-denial as a prerequisite to being a benefit to the world around us. When he called those in the crowd
While every tragedy reminds us that we live in a broken world, it is also an opportunity to see how the attitudes that fight against this brokenness are still vibrant in the hearts of our heroes. They set an example for us all. What we need are more folks willing to look out for the interests of others and consider others more important than their own petty desires and conveniences.
America groans under the weight of a growing selfishness, a growing addiction to what is easy and convenient, all coupled with the thought that none of us is really responsible for our neighbor. But the reality is, while my home is mine, and your home is yours, this land in which we live belongs to us all, and it is our privilege to serve one another in big and small ways, always striving to overwhelm our innate selfishness with the grand intention of sacrificial service.
We could use a whole society of heroes. It's not just a desire, it’s a duty, a responsibility we all share.
Local resident David Hegg is senior pastor of Grace Baptist Church. “Ethically Speaking” appears Sundays.
