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J U LY 17, 2022
S U N D AYS I G N A L · 3
TABLE OF CONTENTS
NEWS FEATURES 4 Getting Out and Doing Some Offroading 5 Summer Family Project 6 Plastic Surgery Making a Comeback 7 Music, Movies, Matinees and More FROM THE CITY MANAGER 8 The Quality of Life in Santa Clarita FOOD 9 Meals that make Busy Weekends a Breeze Pork Chops in Creamy Mustard Roasted Chicken and Zucchini Tostadas ENTERTAINMENT 11 ‘‘Back Bird’ is Intense and Engrossing GARDENING 12 Building a Ground-Level Deck SENIOR LIVING 13 The Pros and Cons of Early Retirement HOME 14 Designing a Perfect Bathroom HEALTH 15 Summertime Skin Care Tips PETS 16 Making Your Aging Pet Comfortable KIDS & FAMILY 17 Donna’s Day: Sea Glass, Shells and Stones Junior Whirl PUZZLES OPINION David Hegg
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HOW TO PROTECT YOUR LANDSCAPE IN A DROUGHT STAGE 2 EFFICIENT IRRIGATION PRACTICES • THE TIME OF DAY YOU WATER MATTERS. Early morning (midnight to 9 a.m.) or late at night (8 p.m. to midnight) will keep more water on your landscape, rather than evaporating in the heat and wind. • HOW LONG YOU WATER MATTERS. Much of our SCV soil is clay, which means there is typically runoff after 5 minutes of traditional irrigation. By breaking the 10-minute watering time into two 5-minute or less cycles, your landscape will soak up more of the water it needs. • YOUR IRRIGATION ZONES MATTER. Two 5-minute cycles are allowed per irrigation zone. Meaning, each section of your groundcover, shrubs or other landscaped areas can be watered a maximum of twice a day, no more than 5 minutes each time. If you need to hand-water brown spots, use a hose with an automatic shutoff nozzle. This smart practice is more efficient than increasing running sprinklers.
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J U LY 17, 2022
N E W S F E AT U R E
Getting out and doing some nearby off-roading six days a week and includes a main track, 90cc mini track and 65cc peewee track. The SVRA also recently added two new ATV tracks and a nearby campground with shaded picnic tables, firepits and bathrooms. For information , visit //ohv.parks. ca.gov/?page_id=1192.
By Emily Alvarenga Signal Staff Writer
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ith so much beautiful scenery in California, it’s not a surprise that off-roading is such an extremely popular hobby. “Off-roading lets you drive somewhere you’ve never seen, meet people, make memories and overall have great experiences that you’ll never forget,” avid off-roader Christian Ibarra said. Although it may seem like you should be allowed to ride up any hill or dirt road, in Santa Clarita, there aren’t many places to legally off-road.
Why can’t you just ride anywhere?
“The goal of the off-highway community is to develop a sustainable community where they can recreate,” said Mark Hada, superintendent and visitor services manager of the California State Park’s Off-Highway Motor Vehicle Recreation Division. “But certain areas aren’t very sustainable to off-roading.” If the area has endangered species, mineral issues or land use issues for example, then you can’t ride there. “If conditions and weather don’t meet certain criteria, then they can’t open these trails to the public either,” Hada said. Then there are also areas the recreation division is not able to maintain for financial reasons. According to the Angeles National Forest website, the Angeles National Forest is located within one of the driest, most fire-prone areas in the United States. Santa Clarita is in a “Zone 4 fire area,” which, says Sgt. Mike Konecny of the Santa Clarita Valley Sheriff Station’s Off-Road Enforcement Team, means that you’re not even allowed to legally ride on your own private property.
Forest trails
Not all areas that are impacted by these fires will recover naturally, so the Angeles National Forest is required by law to attempt restorations intended to reproduce the ecosystems that had previously been damaged.
So where can you ride?
Here are a few nearby locations you can try out.
Rowher Flat OHV From Highway 14, take Sierra Highway offramp north and turn left on Rush Canyon Road.
Rowher Flat is an all-year OHV area with some 47 miles of marked trails spread across 10,000 acres. The area is mainly hard pack with some free play areas. There are a variety of trails requiring anywhere from beginner to advanced riding skills, according to the Angeles National Forest Off Highway Vehicle. Designated OHV routes are marked with signs for the type of use and level of difficulty. Beginners are advised to stay on the flat areas. With recent upgrades to staging areas including loading ramps, bathrooms, shaded picnic tables and firepits, this area can also be great for camping. The main staging area also has an 80cc mini track and four-wheel drive training course. For information on Rowher Flat, visit www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/angeles/
recarea/?recid=41806. The site includes any restrictions regarding recent fire activity.
Drinkwater Flat Take San
Francisquito Canyon Road and travel north for approximately 5 miles. Near Rowher Flat, Drinkwater Flat is comprised of only a few marked and rated trails, but there is both smooth-groomed easy stuff and rougher hills for those looking for tougher trails. OHVs are still required to be registered and stickered accordingly.
Hungry Valley State Vehicular Recreation Area 5301 Ralphs Ranch Road (previously known as Peace Valley Road) in Gorman.
Hungry Valley SVRA is the third largest California State Park’s OHMVR area with over 130 miles of trails on 19,000 acres. With elevation ranging from 3,000 to 6,000 feet and a wide variety of trails and terrain, off-roaders of all skill level will be challenged, according to the OHMVR. Experienced riders can tackle the hills and sand washes in the back-country while beginners can enjoy the scenery and easier trails in the Native Grasslands Management Area, the OHMVR website states. The Quail Canyon Motocross Track to the southeast is open to the public
The rest of the Angeles National Forest has a system of OHV-designated routes that are open to four-wheel drive vehicles, ATVs and motorcycles and are identified by “designated route” signs, according to the forest’s off-highway vehicles brochure. These marked fire trails are not always open, so Konecny suggests getting maps from forest services and calling to check which are accessible. For information, visit www.fs.usda. gov/main/angeles/home.
Before you ride …
To ensure a safe and fun off-roading experience, make sure to always wear the proper protective gear including helmets, boots, gloves and eye protection when appropriate. Forest-approved spark arrestors or mufflers are required on all OHVs, according to the OHMVR. Each OHV must be registered and will receive either a green or red sticker per its emissions standards. Green sticker vehicles are able to be ridden year-round while red sticker vehicles can only be ridden October 1 through April 30, according to the OHMVR. California State Parks offers free safety seminars for kids ages 6 to 18, according to Amy Granat, California Off-Road Vehicle Association managing director. For more information, email HungryValleyASITraining@gmail. com.
PHOTO COURTESY CHRISTIAN IBARRA
J U LY 17, 2022
S U N D AYS I G N A L · 5
N E W S F E AT U R E
Summer Family Project: Create a Family Book By Michele E. Buttelman Staff Writer
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t’s summer and the last couple of years have made us appreciate our freedom, our community, our lives and our families. Make this summer special by creating a family project for yourself and future generations.
Family Cookbook
It sounds intimidating, the idea of creating a family cookbook. However, it is one of the easiest of all self-publishing books to create. Food is one of the most important parts of our family heritage. Does your dad make a special barbecue rub? Does your mom make the best chocolate chip cookies? Does Grandma Nancy make your favorite potato salad? Often families realize too late that an important part of traditions and heritage passes away when a family member becomes disabled or dies. Protect your favorite food memories and traditions by publishing a family cookbook. Have the cover of the cookbook designed by the children in the family. A fun way to do this is to divide a page into sections where each child can make a drawing of their favorite food. Another popular cover choice is to gather the family at the holidays and take a big group photo, either at the dining table or another photogenic location and use that picture as the cover. There are several websites that will assist you with designing and publishing your book for less than $20 a copy with no minimum number of copies. Step 1. Contact your relatives and ask for copies of recipes. These do not have to be original recipes. They can include everything from recipes clipped from a box of Jell-O in the 1960s, to the famous Tollhouse chocolate chip cookie recipe from the 1970s. Step 2. Spend a weekend, or two, making these recipes in your kitchen as a family. If you can include the relative who makes your favorite dish, all the better. Step 3. Photograph the food. Be sure to put the finished product on a pretty plate and photograph the food in good light. Put a white table cloth over an outdoor patio table or on a counter in the kitchen. If you have a beautiful granite counter put the food on a plain white plate and place on a clean counter with no distracting utensils or food in the frame. Change the camera angle if there is a lens flare or bounce back on the granite from your flash. Step 4. Enter the ingredients, recipe instructions and food photos on the forms provided by your
A family vacation book is a great way to travel down memory lane as a family. Courtesy Disneyland Resort.
cookbook publisher and order your books.
Family History Picture Book
This is a fun and meaningful project that helps kids learn where they came from and how the world has changed. This is a good exercise for older children that allows them to interact with older relatives. Step 1. Gather up a camera (a good cell phone camera will work) and a tape recorder. You can also use cell phone video to capture your interview. Step 2. Make appointments with your relatives. Some appointments might be made through Zoom or on the phone. Step 3. Ask your relatives to tell you their life stories. Ask them questions along the way. “Tell me about your mom and dad.” “Where did you grow up?” “What did you study in school? What was your favorite subject?” “What was your favorite activity to do as a kid?” “What was your first job?” If you know of an important historical event your relative lived through, ask them to tell you what it was like. For example: “Do you remember the day JFK was assassinated? Did you see the moon landing on television?” Step 3. Take a current photo of your relative and ask for a photo of their younger self. Ask for photos of where they lived, photos on the job, photos with their first car, photos with other family members. Step 4. Transcribe your interview. Step 5. Work with the self-publishing software to lay out the photos and interviews on the pages of the book.
Other Family Books
• Family Vacation Book: Travel down memory lane with photos from past vacations and theme park visits. • Children’s’ Story Book: Have children write stories using their imagination. The wilder the better.
They can also create the artwork for the book. • From K-12: Gather photos and report cards for each child and create a custom book documenting their journey from first day of school to high school graduation.
How to Publish Your Book
The least expensive way to publish your book is to lay out and print your book on your home computer. A high-quality printer and good quality paper will be necessary to reproduce photos. The “book” can be stapled together or it can be assembled with a plastic coil kit. You can also use Staples or Office Depot/Office Max to self-publish with better quality than an athome project. There are three traditional types of books, which vary in durability and functionality. • Hardcover: The most durable and long-lasting of books. • Softcover: Usually the best option for self-published books because they are cheaper to produce. • Plastic Coil: Plastic coil books are perfect for cookbooks as they will lie flat when in use. Explore these companies to help create your cookbook. Create My Cookbook www.createmycookbook.com Cookbook Publishers http://cookbookpublishers.com Mix Book Photo Company www.mixbook.com Morris Cookbooks www.morriscookbooks.com Explore these publishers for other self-published books. Book1One www.book1one.com UBuildaBook www.ubuildabook.com Blurb www.blurb.com/family-photo-books
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J U LY 17, 2022
N E W S F E AT U R E
Plastic Surgery Making a Comeback After Pause By Jim Walker Signal Staff Writer
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t the beginning of the pandemic lockdowns, many U.S. hospitals and surgical centers banned all elective procedures, limiting plastic surgeries to only those that were reconstructive. Some practices had to close to all but essential patients, or suddenly pivot to in-office procedures only. Beyond that, there was a general sense of fear of the unknown. Many patients canceled previously scheduled surgeries, afraid of COVID-19. And others were no longer able to afford their procedures due to actual changes in income, or were pulling back on spending just to be careful. However, within a few months, restrictions were lifted, practices opened up and more people than ever before began seriously considering plastic surgery and other cosmetic procedures. Locally, Paul Tran, M.D. FACS, specializes in facial, breast and body reconstructive and cosmetic surgeries. Here is how the pandemic affected his business: “Initially, when elective surgeries were on hold, this did negatively impact our business,” he said. “However, once elective surgeries resumed, we had a large backlog of cases to get through, including delayed cancer surgeries. Cosmetic demand for surgical and nonsurgical procedures increased as lockdowns ended and people could continue to work from home. This made it easier for people to have procedures and recover. We saw our cosmetic business increased 100%.” Now, on the surface, the idea of a pandemic and lockdowns leading to greater interest in plastic surgery may seem odd. But once you dig a little deeper, it starts to make sense. Anyone who had previously been interested in surgery, but was worried about the recovery period, now had a great opportunity. Though they would still need time off from work, they would require fewer sick days, since they could work from their bed as they recovered. Plus, that comfortable work-from-home wardrobe translates nicely to a post-surgery recovery one. Additionally, for those who suddenly didn’t need to commute, buy lunches out and focus on their work wardrobe, the pandemic also meant more money in the bank to spend as they wished. Probably most important was the wave of Zoom meetings. Many people now had to stare at their own image on a screen for hours each day. As a result, they had time to analyze their lines, wrinkles, double chins and more. So, people quickly sought out solutions, and many thousands began seeking plastic surgery during the pandemic. “With people stuck at home and unable to travel, many decided to spend money on themselves to improve their appearances,” Dr. Tran said. “Mask-
ing helps to cover up lower facial procedures. Working from home makes it easier for patients to have invasive procedures and recover. The increases in the stock market, cryptocurrency and housing prices also helped.” The year 2020 changed everything, including plastic surgery trends. For years, breast augmentation had reigned supreme, with liposuction, rhinoplasty, eyelid surgery and facelifts rounding out the top five. These procedures remained popular in 2020, and the pandemic made getting and recovering from them easier for many. However, interest in facial procedures grew significantly. More patients began requesting everything from chin liposuction to facelifts. There was also an increased interest in med spa procedures, such as Botox and fillers, and this prompted many practices to increase their focus on nonsurgical offerings – and even change their delivery methods to accommodate drive-thru procedures. “Facial procedures, surgical and nonsurgical, increased for us by about 50%,” Tran said. “Body procedures, such as breast and abdominoplasty, increased as well, as they generally have a more prolonged recovery.” Currently, many people are wondering if this increased interest in plastic surgery in general, and facial procedures, in particular, is going to last once the pandemic is finally brought under control. While this is difficult to predict, most likely these plastic surgery trends will continue. First, the “new normal” is unlikely to give way to a return of the “old normal.” Companies have seen increased productivity and lowered costs by switching to a work-fromhome model. People are coming to enjoy their virtual chats, and even when socializing in person again, are unlikely to eliminate Zoom from their lives.
Second, Millennials are aging. The oldest members of the generation are 38 years old in 2021. Thanks to the rise of Gen Z and platforms like TikTok, they are also acutely aware that they are no longer the young kids on the block. Unlike previous generations, they are facing 40 while living in an online world. Even if the new normal were to fully disappear, social media will not. As such, the plastic surgery boom might lose some of its steam in a post-pandemic world, but it is unlikely to end. Tran said, “Popular procedures on social media, such as fillers, facial procedures and Brazilian butt lifts, will continue to drive demand. People seem more eager nowadays to not only have procedures, but to show them off as well.” With Daniel’s predictions as a cue, we note that the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery’s 2022 predictions show current trends persisting: More procedures will be performed at once to quell demand, and younger patients will be requesting procedures that are currently popular among middle-aged adults. Blepharoplasty (repairing droopy eyelids) was the top surgical procedure among 50- to 80-yearolds from January 2021 through July 2021. Yet, Aesthetic Society member surgeons predict younger women pursuing eyelid surgery in 2022. This is noted as a possible effect of the virtual meeting boom. And it is believed such meetings will motivate patients to try facial procedures to resolve issues they may not have noticed before, seeking out surgical and nonsurgical skin treatments. This article was partially based on an article by Lee Daniel, M.D., that appeared last year in the American Society of Plastic Surgeons news blog.
J U LY 17, 2022
S U N D AYS I G N A L · 7
N E W S F E AT U R E
Summer Music, Movies, Matinees and More By Michele E. Buttelman Signal Staff Writer
dium tour with a newly announced lineup featuring Dan + Shay, Old Dominion and Carly Pearce.
n the Santa Clarita Valley, there are many ways to make summer magic with family and friends. Backyard pool parties, barbecues, camping excursions, theme park days and trips to the beach. There is also a vast array of summer entertainment to enjoy in the SCV and “over the hill.” After the last few years of limited entertainment options, it’s time to enjoy summer music, movies, matinees and more.
July 31 Red Hot Chili Peppers 2022 World Tour.
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Aug. 27 The Stadium Tour featuring Mötley Crüe/ Def Leppard/Poison/Joan Jett and the Blackhearts. Concerts in the Park Central Park 27150 Bouquet Canyon Road, Santa Clarita 91350 www.santa-clarita.com For free music, don’t forget the city of Santa Clarita “Concerts in the Park” on Saturdays at 7 p.m. through Aug. 27.
Blockbuster Summer
“Top Gun: Maverick,” “Jurassic World: Dominion” and “Lightyear” are a few of the films that have lured audiences back to movie theaters nationwide this summer. “Elvis,” “Thor: Love and Thunder” and “Minions: The Rise of Gru” are the latest 2022 releases to entice moviegoers with silver screen magic. Visit a theater in the SCV this summer. Laemmle Newhall 22500 Lyons Ave., Newhall 91321 www.laemmle.com/theater/newhall Regal Edwards Canyon Country 18800 Soledad Canyon Rd, Canyon Country 91351 www.regmovies.com/theatres/regal-edwardscanyon-country Regal Edwards Valencia 24435 Town Center Drive, Valencia 91355 www.regmovies.com/theatres/regal-edwardsvalencia Upcoming films of note: “DC League of Super-Pets,” July 29 Krypto the Super-Dog and Superman are inseparable best friends, sharing the same superpowers. “Nope,” July 22 Jordan Peele reunites with his “Get Out” leading man Daniel Kaluuya for a mysterious sci-fi thriller that just might make you believe in aliens.
“Kiki’s Delivery Service - Ghibli 2022,” Aug. 1 only at the Valencia Regal Edwards. “Bullet Train,” Aug. 5 In this action comedy based on the 2021 novel of the same name, Brad Pitt plays a hesitant assassin tasked with retrieving a briefcase from a Japanese bullet train. It appears to be a simple mission until he realizes he’s not the only one onboard looking to steal that particular attaché. Bad Bunny, Joey King, Brian Tyree Henry, Aaron Taylor-Johnson, Zazie Beetz, and Sandra Bullock round out the ensemble cast. “Three Thousand Years of Longing,” Aug. 31 “Mad Max: Fury Road” director George Miller returns with this magical tale of a lonely scholar
Magic Matinees
Los Angeles is truly a theater town. There’s a matinee available where everyone can enjoy the magic of live theater. In the SCV, the Canyon Theatre Guild and The MAIN Theatre also offer matinee shows.
(Tilda Swinton), who, while on vacation in Istanbul, meets a genie (Idris Elba) who is willing to give her three wishes in exchange for his freedom. The only problem is, she can’t think of a single thing she wants. Hollywood Bowl 2301 N. Highland Ave., Los Angeles 90068 www.hollywoodbowl.com If you’ve never sat under the stars and seen a concert at the Hollywood Bowl, this is the summer to indulge yourself with a truly unique Southern California experience. July 22-23 Ricky Martin with the LA Phil July 27 Tribute to Peggy Lee and Frank Sinatra with special guests Billie Eilish, Debbie Harry, Dianne Reeves, Brian Stokes Mitchell and more. July 29 Boyz II Men, TLC July 30 John Fogerty Aug 3 Sheryl Crow, Keb’ Mo’ Aug. 5-6 “Back to the Future” with the LA Phil. Power up your DeLorean, recharge your flux capacitor and get ready to experience an unforgettable classic with the LA Phil performing the score. Aug. 12-13 Tchaikovsky Spectacular with Fireworks Aug. 26-27 Diana Ross SoFi Stadium 1001 Stadium Drive, Inglewood 90301 www.sofistadium.com/upcoming-events If you want to experience the new SoFi Stadium but don’t want to see a football game, you can experience a live concert at the $5 billion venue. July 23 Kenny Chesney Here and Now 2022 Sta-
Canyon Theater Guild 24242 Main St., Newhall 91321 www.canyontheatre.org/shows “Lionel Bart’s Oliver!”July 23-Aug. 27 Lionel Bart’s classic musical based on the Charles Dickens novel, “Oliver Twist.” A wonderful family-friendly show. Sunday matinees at 2 p.m. The MAIN Theatre 24266 Main St., Newhall, CA 91321 “Murder on the Newhall Express” Aug. 12-28 “Murder on the Newhall Express” pits famous detectives including Sherlock Holmes, Miss Marple, Velma and Columbo in the same room to solve a crime in this hilarious parody of the classic Agatha Christie tale. Sunday matinees Aug. 21 and 28 at 2 p.m. Ahmanson Theatre 135 N. Grand Ave., Los Angeles 90012 www.centertheatregroup.org/tickets/ahmansontheatre/2021/the-prom “The Prom” is a new musical comedy about big Broadway stars on a mission to change the world, and the love they discover that unites them all. Ages 8 and older. Saturday matinees at 2 p.m. Sunday matinees at 1 p.m. Aug. 9 through Sept. 11. Hollywood Pantages Theatre 6233 Hollywood Blvd., Los Angeles 90028 www.broadwayinhollywood.com “Moulin Rouge! The Musical” is the winner of 10 Tony Awards including Best Musical. Enter a world of splendor and romance, of eye-popping excess, of glitz, grandeur and glory. Age 12 and up. Saturday matinees at 2 p.m. Sunday matinees at 1 p.m. through Sept. 4.
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J U LY 17, 2022
FROM THE CITY MANAGER
Rating the Quality of Life in Santa Clarita By Ken Striplin Santa Clarita City Manager
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ur main goal as a City is to provide residents of Santa Clarita with the services and programs they desire. To help inform our decisions, every two years, the City of Santa Clarita hires an independent consultant to conduct a Public Opinion Poll. The City conducts this scientific survey to evaluate the quality of services provided and to gather feedback on what is most important to residents as we plan for the future. At the June 28 City Council meeting, City staff presented the results of the 2022 Poll. I am pleased that, once again, the feedback received from residents was overwhelmingly positive. Residents shared favorable opinions of Santa Clarita on each aspect tested. Among those aspects tested, the most positive ratings, rated excellent or good by 85% of respondents, were provided for Santa Clarita as a place to raise a family, as a place to live and the overall quality of life in the City. Additionally, 86% of respondents were satisfied with services provided by the City and indicated staff were professional,
accessible and helpful. This scientific poll was conducted by True North Research, a nationally-recognized firm that specializes in survey research methodology, sampling theory, weighting and the use of statistical methods to generalize survey results. One of the key questions in the survey is — what is the most important issue facing the community right now? This feedback helps guide future funding and strategic planning decisions as we place a high priority on proactively addressing anticipated changes in the community. This year residents cited public safety as the top concern, followed by overdevelopment/growth, traffic congestion and homelessness. It is no surprise that public safety has risen to the top of the list. The directives by District Attorney George Gascon have undermined public safety and the laws put in place to protect the general public. We have seen an increase in crime in Santa Clarita and across Southern California. However, Santa Clarita continues to be hailed as one of the safest cities in the nation. This was not by accident. Maintaining the safety of our residents has been a priority of the City Council since its incorporation in 1987. This is seen in our collaboration with the Santa Clarita Valley Sheriff ’s Sta-
tion, the City’s work to preserve the integrity of our neighborhoods and the innovative programs that inform residents of all ages. The City invests in public safety through the nearly $30-million annual contract with the Los Angeles County Sheriff ’s Department and, of course, the new state-of-the-art Sheriff ’s Station. We work closely with the Sheriff ’s Department on a comprehensive, multi-faceted crime reduction strategy to prevent and combat crime. This includes special operations and saturation patrols that target potential crimes, from DUIs to grand theft auto. Overall our City has once again received high marks from the community we serve, even during this trying time. Under the leadership of the City Council, we are committed to raising the bar and providing services that exceed residents’ expectations now and into the future. I want to thank residents who took the time to participate in our 2022 Public Opinion Poll. If you would like to review all the data collected, please visit santa-clarita.com/ city-hall/public-opinion-polls.
Ken Striplin can be reached at kstriplin@santaclarita.com. The views expressed in his column are those of the City and do not necessarily reflect those of The Signal.
J U LY 17, 2022
S U N D AYS I G N A L · 9
FOOD
Meals That Make Busy Weeknights a Breeze
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fter a long day, it’s tough to top bringing the family together with a homecooked meal. When evenings are busy with activities, however, there might be little time left for complicated dishes. Take those schedules on with a menu of delicious recipes that require 30 minutes or less so you can focus on celebrating the day’s accomplishments with loved ones. These simple yet flavorful ideas from Milk Means More call for limited instructions, less equipment and shorter ingredients lists fueled by dairy favorites that provide much-needed nutrients to recharge the entire family. Pork Chops in Creamy Mustard-Peppercorn Sauce feature the sharp yet balanced taste of mustard and cracked black peppercorns as an easy way to dress up pork chops. For a tasty twist on Taco Tuesday, you can play “beat the clock” with Roasted Chicken and Zucchini Tostadas by crisping corn tortillas under the broiler then topping them with a tangy yogurt spread, cumin-seasoned chicken, veggies and shredded cheese. Turn your hectic weeknights into cause for celebration with more quick and easy recipe ideas at MilkMeansMore.org. (Family Features)
Pork Chops in Creamy MustardPeppercorn Sauce Recipe courtesy of Marcia Stanley, MS, RDN, Culinary Dietitian, on behalf of Milk Means More Total time: 20 minutes Servings: 4 3/4 cup evaporated 2% milk 3 tablespoons spicy brown mustard or Dijon mustard 3/4 teaspoon coarsely cracked black peppercorns 1/2 teaspoon all-purpose flour 4 boneless pork loin chops (1 1/4 pounds), cut 3/4-inch thick
1/4 teaspoon salt 1 tablespoon vegetable oil 1 teaspoon minced garlic 1/4 cup reduced-sodium chicken broth cooked noodles or rice (optional) chopped fresh parsley (optional) In bowl, whisk milk, mustard, peppercorns and flour. Set aside. Pat pork chops dry with paper towels. Sprinkle both sides of chops with salt. In large nonstick skillet, heat oil over medium-high heat. Cook pork chops 3-4 minutes, or until
browned. Turn and cook 3-4 minutes, or until thermometer inserted in thickest part of chops reads 145 F. Transfer chops to serving platter. Loosely cover with foil to keep warm. Add garlic to drippings in skillet. Cook 15 seconds. Stir in broth. Cook, stirring constantly, until most liquid evaporates. Stir in milk mixture and any accumulated juices from cooked pork. Cook and stir until just boiling. Immediately remove from heat and spoon sauce over chops. Serve with noodles or rice, if desired. Garnish with parsley, if desired.
Roasted Chicken and Zucchini Tostadas
Total time: 25 minutes Servings: 4 12 street taco-size corn tortillas nonstick cooking spray 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt (2% or 5%) 3 teaspoons lime juice, divided 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder 1 1/2 cups shredded or chopped rotisserie-roasted chicken breast 1/2 cup seeded and chopped tomato 1/2 cup chopped zucchini 2 teaspoons olive oil 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin 1/8 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper 1 cup (4 ounces) shredded Monterey Jack cheese Heat oven to broil. Line large baking sheet or 18-by13-by-1-inch baking pan with foil.
Arrange tortillas in single layer on pan. Lightly spray tortillas with nonstick cooking spray. Broil about 5 inches from heat 4-6 minutes, or until beginning to brown on one side. Remove from broiler. Carefully turn tortillas over. In medium bowl, stir yogurt, 1 teaspoon lime juice and garlic powder. Set aside. In another bowl, toss chicken, tomato, zucchini, remaining lime juice, olive oil, cumin and cayenne pepper. Spread yogurt mixture on unbrowned sides of tortillas. Top with chicken mixture. Sprinkle with cheese. Broil about 5 inches from heat 2-3 minutes, or until hot and cheese melts. Serve immediately.
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J U LY 17, 2022
E N T E R TA I N M E N T
Santa Clarita’s Got the Blues — Eric Gales
E
ric Gales released his first record at age 16 to an amazing response from the media and music fans around the globe. Guitar World magazine’s Readers Poll named Eric as “Best New Talent’’ in 1991. Through the years, it would not be unusual to look out in the audience and see artists like Carlos Santana, Eric Johnson, B. B. King and Eric Clapton looked on with interest as Eric took his guitar and worked crowd after crowd into a frenzy.
The new millennium presented fresh opportunities for Eric. He recorded the critically acclaimed record That’s What I Am in 2001 and hit the road mesmerizing fans around the world with his uncanny connection to his guitar. As both an African-American left-handed guitarist of extraordinary ability and an expressive vocalist, it is natural for people to compare Eric to Hendrix. But Eric has developed a unique hybrid blues/rock sound that also draws upon influenc-
es as diverse as Albert King and Frank Gambale. A unique amalgam of styles, Eric Gales stands head and shoulders among other guitarists in his genre. You can see Eric Gales live at The Canyon Santa Clarita on September 23. Tickets are available online through AXS, over the phone at (888) 645-5006, and in person at the Canyon Santa Clarita box office. For more information, visit www.wheremusic meetsthesoul.com.
J U LY 17, 2022
S U N D AYS I G N A L · 1 1
E N T E R TA I N M E N T
‘Black Bird’ is ‘Intense’ and ‘Engrossing’ and Award Worthy
in the town of Perrysville, Indiana, and now we return to that locale as Greg Kinnear’s Detective Brian Miller ‘Black Bird’ is called to the area, which is now a 1/2 (out of four) crime scene. The girl has been murA six-episode series premiering with dered, her body dumped in the fields two episodes Friday on Apple TV+. A within walking distance of the bike new episode will premiere each Fripath. Suddenly, “Black Bird” has the day through Aug. 5. look and feel of a stark and brooding investigative procedural, a la “Mindvery early scene in the inhunter” or “Zodiac.” tense and engrossing ApEventually, though, “Black Bird” is ple TV+ limited series is set primarily in a maximum-securiset in the Chicago of Noty prison and becomes a two-hander vember 1996, with Taron Egerton’s as Jimmy strikes up a precarious and macho,Clarita supremelySignal self-confident atres • Santa adsource@exhibitorads.com dangerous bond with the man who Jimmy Keene manning the bar in his p. 888.737.2812 f. 203.438.1206 5.9” killed that girl and might be responbachelor pad while his high school sible for the murders of more than a football buddies from Kankakee July 17-21, 2022 date: Sunday-Thursday, dozen other girls and young women. watch old footage of Jimmy’s glodelivery date: There’s a tonal shift to a prison story Tuesday, July 12, 2022 at 11:00:31 AM CASCS_LEM0717-0721.qxp PHOTO COURTESY IMDB ry days on the gridiron. With “Mr. with elements of “The Shawshank ReBrownstone” by Guns N’ Roses blast- cous crime thriller on the order of demption” or “Brubaker.” ing on the soundtrack, Jimmy climbs films such as “Blow” or “American That “Black Bird” succeeds so well into his candy apple-red sports car Hustle,” or series such as “Narcos.” in all of the aforementioned genres is and roars off to a warehouse, where But wait. Earlier in that episode, we a tribute to the writing of the mastera drug deal quickly goes sideways. had seen a 15-year-old girl riding her ful Dennis Lehane (author of “Mystic bike on a road past some cornfields It feels as if we’re in for a slick, rauRiver,” “Shutter Island” and “Gone, Baby, Gone”) the directing work of Michael R. Roskam and Joe ChapTM pelle, the noir-perfect cinematography from Natalie Kingston and one of most outstanding ensemble casts of the year, led by Egerton, Kinnear, Paul Walter Hauser as the suspect22500 Lyons Ave. info Line 310.478.3836 ed serial killer Larry Hall, Sepideh Moafi (“The Deuce”) as a determined FBI agent and the late Ray Liotta in NOPE E Thu: 7:10 PM one of his final roles, doing nominaThe film reunites Peele with Oscar® winner Daniel Kaluuya who is joined by Keke Palmer and Oscar® nominee Steven Yeun as residents in a lonely gulch of inland California who bear witness to an uncanny and chilling discovery. tion-worthy supporting work as a retired cop who is Jimmy’s father and is MRS. HARRIS GOES TO PARIS B 1:30 4:30 7:20 living on borrowed time. In partnership with the House of Dior, Mrs. Harris Goes To Paris tells the story of a widowed cleaning lady in 1950s London who falls madly in love with a couture Dior dress. She works, starves and gambles to raise the funds, then embarks on a life-changing Based on the 2010 book “In With adventure in Paris. the Devil: A Fallen Hero, A Serial WHERE THE CRAWDADS SING C 1:10 4:10 7:10 Killer and a Dangerous Bargain” by the real Jimmy Keene, this taut and Kya, an abandoned girl who raised herself to adulthood in the dangerous marshlands of North Carolina, finds herself drawn to opens herself to two young men from town. compelling series is all the more impactful because it’s based on true-life THOR: LOVE AND THUNDER C 1:20 4:20 7:20 events. A buffed-up, tightly wound “Thor: Love and Thunder” finds Thor on a quest for inner peace. But his retirement is interrupted by a galactic killer, Gorr the God Butcher, who seeks the extinction of the gods. Egerton is miles away from his role as Elton John in “Rocketman” and carMINIONS: THE RISE OF GRU B 1:00 3:10 5:20 7:30 ries a kind of James Caan/Sean Penn A young Gru joins forces with his new Minion friends to take on the supervillain supergroup The Vicious 6. swagger as Jimmy, whose cockiness TOP GUN: MAVERICK C 1:10 4:00 7:00 quickly fades when he’s slapped with a After more than thirty years of service as one of the Navy’s top aviators, Pete “Maverick” Mitchell is pushing the envelope as a 10-year sentence for dealing narcotics courageous test pilot. and weapons possession when he was BOTTICELLI: FLORENCE AND THE MEDICI I Mon: 7:30 PM; told it would be only a two-year hitch. Tue: 1:00 PM FBI Agent Lauren McCauley (MoaFlorence in the era of the powerhouse Italian statesman, politician and patron Lorenzo de’ Medici, was the heart of Renaissance art fi, excellent as usual) comes to Jimmy and culture. One artist, above all others, was able to evoke the lights and shadows of this unforgettable era: Sandro Botticelli. with a highly unorthodox proposal: FOR 7/17/20227/21/2022 ONLY WWW.LAEMMLE.COM They’ll transfer him to a supermax By Richard Roeper Signal Contributing Writer
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prison and place him in a cell next to Hauser’s Larry Hall, who has been convicted of one murder and is suspected of many others — but could be back on the streets due to a technicality. If Jimmy can extract information that will implicate Hall in these killings, Jimmy’s sentence will be commuted and Hall will never see the light of day again. At first, Jimmy scoffs at this longshot scheme and says no thanks — but he changes his mind after his beloved father, James “Big Jim” Keene (Liotta), suffers a debilitating stroke. There’s almost zero chance Big Jim will outlive Jimmy’s sentence, so Jimmy agrees to the transfer. Hauser has mastered the art of playing sad-sack, wannabe tough guy outcasts in films such as “I, Tonya,” “BlacKkKlansman” and “Richard Jewell,” but he takes it to a whole different level with his portrayal of Hall. Egerton and Hauser have a number of scenes containing page after page of dialogue, and the two are superb together as Jimmy befriends Hall and tries to get him to confess without arousing suspicions. A series of perfectly placed flashbacks provide insights into the childhoods of Jimmy and Hall, and we occasionally revisit events from the point of view of Big Jim, with Liotta doing a magnificent job of conveying the pain a father feels because he believes he let down his son. (A scene in which Big Jim tries to order a cheeseburger and coffee in a diner but can’t get the words straight because he’s on the verge of another stroke is memorably devastating.) “Black Bird” is filled with dominant male characters, so Moafi provides invaluable balance as the only key female player in a story about the murders of so many girls and young women. In a tricky move that could have come across as emotional manipulation, one episode of the series hands over the narration to Jessica Roach (Laney Stiebing), who tells us from beyond the grave about how much she loved her life. It’s a highly effective technique, reminding us that while the men are the focal point of this story, we should never, ever forget about the victims, whose burial sites remain undiscovered to this day.
Copyright 2022 Chicago Sun-Times
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J U LY 17, 2022
GARDENING
Tips for Building a Ground-Level Deck
W
hether you want to create a picturesque setting for al fresco dining, establish the perfect outdoor entertainment destination or simply want a place to enjoy relaxing weekends, building a ground-level deck is an ideal way to maximize any outdoor space. Also called a “floating” or “platform” deck, a ground-level deck is a relatively easy and affordable DIY project. If you’ve got the skills, time and ambition, the experts at Decks.com offer these helpful tips for how to build a ground-level deck that will transform your backyard into an outdoor oasis:
Planning and Placement
A successful deck build starts with proper planning. While a ground-level deck typically does not require a permit, it is a good idea to check with your local builder’s office to confirm the building codes in your area before you get started.
Next, consider how you plan to use your deck to determine the best location for it. Will you be hosting friends and family? If so, you may want to position your deck near the house. Are you envisioning a quiet outdoor oasis? Then, a secluded area of your yard might be best.
Foundation and Ventilation
Once you know where you plan to build, assess the terrain to ensure proper water run-off and ventilation. Sustained dampness on a deck can lead to mold, rot and decay. It’s also recommended to install gravel under the structure to provide better drainage. Next, put stakes in the ground and string the perimeter to ensure the deck outline is level and square.
Installing the Beams
At this stage, you should be able to see your deck starting to take shape. Lay the deck beams on top of the footings, making sure they are high enough off the ground to allow for ventilation. Measure diagonally and
tap the beams to line them up. Consider using temporary supports to hold your beams in place. Add additional gravel to level out the ground.
Attaching Anchors and Joists
Once the framing beams are level, attach angle brackets at the corners of the deck for additional support where the joists and beams meet. Use joist hangers to fasten the inner joists to the beam faces at regular intervals, using the spacing recommended by the decking manufacturer, as well as local building code regulations. This provides stability and gives you a good idea of how the decking will lay.
Laying the Decking
Align the first length of decking with the outside edge. Once you’ve ensured that it’s even, install the remaining deck boards perpendicular to the joist. Make sure the boards are well-secured and gapped according to the decking manufacturer’s guidelines for proper ventilation. This is also important for preserving the warran-
ty that may come with your decking material.
Finishing and Enjoying
Once your decking is installed, use a circular saw to trim any overhang for clean, finished edges. After you’ve admired your hard work, make the space your own by adding plants, furniture and decorations to bring your outdoor oasis to life. For more deck building ideas and information, or to find a professional deck builder near you, visit Decks.com. (BPT)
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J U LY 17, 2022
S U N D AYS I G N A L · 1 3
SENIORLIVING
The Pros and Cons of Early Retirement
R
etirement is a milestone that is often the byproduct of decades of hard work. Though a growing number of working professionals have no intention of ever retiring, the vast majority of adults look forward to the day when they can call it a career. The prospect of early retirement is enticing to millions of people. Though retiring early may seem like a no brainer for individuals in position to do so, a careful consideration of the pros and cons of early retirement can ensure people make the best decision.
Benefits of Early Retirement
For many people, early retirement is less about finding a beach to relax on and more about pivoting to a second career. In fact, a recent report from the Employee Benefit Research Institute indicated that 74% of workers plan to get a new job after they retire. In such instances, early retirement is often about turning a long-time passion into a second career. That can help adults achieve a lifelong dream, making it one of the better reasons to retire early. Another advantage to retiring early is the chance to spend more quality time with family. One study from the American Psychological Association found that more than half of working professionals now check work emails after work hours, including on weekends. Forty-four percent even check their email while on vacation. Early retirement enables individuals to escape that round-the-clock career commitment, affording retirees a chance to spend more unfiltered quality time with the people they love most. Retiring early also provides an opportunity to escape a daily grind that many people have indicated has become increasingly burdensome in recent years. The 2021 Work and Well-Being Survey from the American Psychological Association found that 79% of the roughly 1,500 adults surveyed had experienced work-related stress in the month prior to participating.
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Disadvantages to Retiring Early
Retiring early can seem like a dream, but it could turn into a nightmare for people whose finances aren’t as robust as they need to be to support a lengthy retirement. One report from the Boston College Center for Retirement Research found that around 50% of working families face a significant decline in their standard of living during retirement. Life expectancy has been on the rise in developed countries since 1900, so retiring too early carries some significant financial risk for people who have saved but not necessarily saved enough. Retiring early also could make people more vulnerable to cognitive decline than they would be if they keep working. One study from researchers at Scotland’s University of St. Andrews found that people who wait until age 67 to retire experience less cognitive decline than people who retire prior to turning 67. Out-of-pocket medical costs are another significant disadvantage to retiring early. Employer-sponsored medical insurance tends to cost individuals less than private plans, which is a significant consideration for individuals at a point in their lives when they may need to visit doctors more often. Early retirement has its advantages and disadvantages. Individuals must consider both to make the best decision for them. (MC)
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J U LY 17, 2022
HOME
Designing Your Perfect Bathroom
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hether you’re working with contractors and ripping out everything down to the studs or you want a simple DIY upgrade to elevate the space, a new bathroom is functional and adds value to your home. Unfortunately, many people have good intentions for upgrading their bathroom only to feel overwhelmed and confused once they start the project. One of the most frustrating aspects of designing a bathroom is selecting and coordinating design elements and materials. Metalworks are key features in the space, adding to the aesthetic and polishing the overall design. They also can be quite intricate, especially when selecting lighting components, which can be difficult to coordinate with everything else. And if metals clash or mismatch, it can make your upgrade look amateur rather than elevated. Finishes have the power to evoke a certain look in the bathroom space, from traditional to modern and beyond, depending on your personal style preferences. Color-matched finishes and material quality matter, but finding finishes that match or coordinate can be difficult, time-consuming and stressful. For instance, if you choose brushed nickel, you want the same tones in the metal and texture in the brushing. For popular matte black, this choice might seem straightforward, but blacks can have many different undertones not to mention the matte levels can vary dramatically. One simple trick to take the guesswork out of designing the perfect bathroom retreat is finding brands that offer partial or whole-room solu-
tions that create a coordinated look. Kohler is often a go-to brand for this because it offers a comprehensive approach with a variety of collections that coordinate lighting, faucets and accessories. Plus, if you don’t want everything matching in style, but you want to coordinate metals and materials, you can cross collections and still get a cohesive, color-matched look. One example of coordinating with different collections is drawing from the Kohler Riff Bathroom Faucet and complementing Kohler Riff Lighting Collections. Both are inspired by Louisiana French Creole design and incorporate similar decorative elements available in a range of color-matched finishes to help you build out your room with core products that were meant for each other. The Riff Collection Lighting features squared metal framework and faceted details juxtaposed by sweeping, slightly flared glass shades, the dramatic, straightforward forms leaning traditional in scope, yet taking on a decidedly more contemporary air when finished in Brushed Moderne Brass or Matte Black. The Riff Faucet Collection reflects the same angular shape and bold pattern as the Lighting designs and when combined create a coordinated, sophisticated look that is tactile and visually appealing. The stress of a renovation and choosing the right products can be daunting. Finishes, although the same by name, can be different when mixing brands. When selecting from the same company, you are assured that you will be able to get color-matched finishes, with designs that have like quality and are made from materials that complement each other. (BPT)
J U LY 17, 2022
S U N D AYS I G N A L · 1 5
H E A LT H & B E A U T Y
Four Care Tips for Your Skin in the Summertime
S
ummer brings sunshine and plenty of exciting opportunities to head outdoors for fun with family and friends. While those joyous moments make the season special, all that sun exposure can wreak havoc on the skin without the proper precautions. Whether you’re dining outdoors, going for a swim, sweating out a bike ride or just spending a few moments soaking up some sun, it’s important to ensure you’re taking care of your body so you can enjoy those rays all season long.
portant area to care for during the sunnier months. An at-home, all-natural DIY facial offers a brightening, hydrating way to treat yourself. For a true glow-up from the comfort of your own home, try this quick and easy solution: Mix 2 tablespoons of Greek yogurt (to help exfoliate and purify) with 1 tablespoon of watermelon juice (for hydration). Apply the mask to your face and neck for 10 minutes then rinse off and pat your skin dry.
Keep Your Whole Body in Mind
Stay Hydrated
As an important aspect of overall health, staying hydrated also helps maintain your skin’s water content. Be sure to drink plenty of water throughout the day, especially as temperatures rise and you spend more time outdoors. Another delicious way to avoid dehydration — leading to energy drain, in mild cases — is to eat fruits and vegetables with high water content. One example is watermelon, which is 92% water and can help restore fluids.
Prioritize Skin Protection
Whether you’ll be in the sun for a few minutes or a few hours, it’s paramount to protect skin by applying sunscreen. On days when the UV index is 3 or higher, the Centers for Disease Control and
Prevention recommends applying a broad spectrum sunscreen SPF 15 or higher. Another option is to wear light, loose clothing that covers as much of the skin as possible while staying comfortable in the heat.
Refresh Your Face
As one of the parts of the body that sees the most sun exposure, your face is perhaps the most im-
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While your face is likely to see a lot of sun, that shouldn’t mean neglecting the rest of your body. This gentle body scrub can give you that glow you’re looking for with a sweet, fruity scent. Here’s how to exfoliate and polish your skin: Combine 1 1/2 cups of white sugar, 1 teaspoon of lemon juice and 1/4 cup of watermelon juice. If you’d like, add 1 teaspoon of microplaned watermelon rind zest and 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Store the scrub in an airtight container up to 1 week and, when you shower, gently rub a handful of scrub on your skin then rinse thoroughly and pat dry. For more skin care solutions and other health and nutrition information, visit watermelon.org. (Family Features)
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J U LY 17, 2022
PETS
How to Make Aging Pets More Comfortable
P
ets are valued members of many families, and their owners typically do everything they can to ensure their furry friends live as comfortably as possible. Care becomes even more important as pets get older. Just like people, aging pets may eat less and sleep more. They may have reduced stamina and even experience stiffness when getting up from sleep. Certain pets may experience failing eyesight, hearing loss and/or incontinence. According to an American Pet Products Association survey, 67% of U.S. households have a pet and will have to cope with that pet becoming a senior at some point. Senior animals might need a little extra help as they age, particularly with regard to comfort. These tips can help. Visit the vet more often Senior pets may need to see the vet more frequently than they used to. Pets typically visit the vet every year. Senior
Ensure ample protection against the elements Aging pets may feel the weather more than younger pets. They may need sweaters and coats or booties to protect their paws from the snow and ice. Cooling or heating mats may improve comfort indoors.
pets may require two visits per year. Speak with a veterinarian about how often your aging pet should come in for checkups. Invest in comfort devices Pets may need items that can accommodate aches and pains or other conditions. For example, aging pets may benefit from a high quality orthopedic pet bed. Pet strollers and raised food bowls also can make aging pets’ lives a little more comfortable. Address mobility issues Aging pets
may need help getting around. Nonskid carpet runners in high-traffic areas can help pets walk around securely. Steps or ramps can make it easier to get on or off beds or in and out of vehicles. Install doggie doors Senior pets may need to relieve themselves more frequently. A doggy door can allow for faster access to the outdoors. Similarly, a litter box with a lower opening makes it easier for aging cats to use the litter box.
Purchase animal diapers Some senior pets may not be able to control themselves. Diapers and absorbent pads can keep them dry and prevent soiling around the house. Help the animal lose weight Pets should maintain a healthy body weight, which can relieve pressure on joints and reduce risk for certain illnesses, including difficulty breathing and skin irritations. Speak with a veterinarian about the right foods and types of exercise for your pet to keep its weight in check. Aging pets need extra patience and care. Pet owners can improve comfort and accessibility for their senior pets. (MC)
J U LY 17, 2022
S U N D AYS I G N A L · 1 7
K I D S & FA M I LY
Donna’s Day: Creative Family Fun
Summertime — Collecting Sea Glass, Shells and Stones to global shores from Australia to the U.K. Whether your family gets hooked on collecting sea glass, seashells or pretty rocks and pebbles along streams and around lakes, there’s always fun to be had when you return home with pockets full of finds. Enjoy these easy-to-do crafts using sea glass, shells or stones:
By Donna Erickson Signal Contributing Writer
“S
pending time with my seven young grandkids is about learning together and making discoveries that ignite the human spirit,” says Jan Bowman, retired teacher and grandmother of seven. “Whether you are 6 or 60, connecting with one another around an activity we all enjoy is catching. That’s what the hunt for sea glass does for us.” Recently, after a big storm, I said, “Let’s go to the coast this morning. I bet we’ll find some rare sea glass that was churned up in the ocean and landed on the sand, just for us to find.” Sure enough, nature’s jewelry was dotting the beach. What is sea glass and what is the allure? Plain and simple, it’s discarded glass that was cast into the ocean and lost to sea -- until some pieces came
Remember to keep your library card handy this summer. A family sorts and indentifies sea glass collected from the coast.
back in interesting shapes and sizes after being tumbled and chemically weathered. It’s often castoffs from glass factories, or discarded bottles
from shipwrecks that broke and tumbled in the sea, decades and centuries ago. Nowadays, it’s a hobby that knows no bounds, popular stateside
Frame a photo of your child at the beach where the sea glass or shells were found. Embellish the plain frame with a select few of the treasures glued to a corner. Glue “finds” on the top of a small box in interesting patterns. Fill it with more summer souvenirs. Tie thin cording around a find, knot it, and glue the knot in place for a memory-filled necklace. For inspiration and information on sea glass, find author Richard LaMotte’s comprehensive book with photography by Celia Pearson, “Pure Sea Glass: Discovering Nature’s Vanishing Gems” and “Pure Sea Glass Identification Deck” (www.seaglasspublishing.com). 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.” © 2022 Donna Erickson Distributed by King Features Synd.
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CROSSWORD TIME
J U LY 17, 2022
PUZZLES
SOLUTIONS
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J U LY 17, 2022
Opinion
S U N D AY S I G N A L · 1 9
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
Oatway, Once Again... In re: Thomas Oatway, “Garcia Vote Disqualifies,” July 8: Once again it would appear Mr. Oatway seldom if ever bothers accurately quoting people nor does he take the time to do even cursory research on topics that he obviously cares about… or claims to, anyway. Anyone interested in the actual statement made by Rep. Mike Garcia regarding the last presidential election can easily find with a quick search on the internet in general and his congressional web site in particular where he stated quite clearly that his one and only concern with the election in Pennsylvania and Arizona was that neither of those two states followed their own constitutionally mandated process, a fact that several of their own Democrat legislators admitted to publicly. According to each of these states, they altered their balloting process due to COVID-19 by allowing the governor to do it rather than going through the lengthy process of having it done by the actual authorized entity, which would have been their elected legislatures. Was that “technically illegal”? Absolutely. And that is what Rep. Garcia objected to. Not the outcome, just the process. It would be refreshing if people on both sides of the aisle were equally concerned over our elections being held according to the proper procedures put in place by the U.S. and the state constitutions and our elected legislators. Rick Barker Valencia
Which Is a Right? Leftists blithely refer to abortion as a constitutional “right” while demanding that guns be regulated. Sorry, but guns are a right. It’s in the Constitution. In contrast, abortion is neither a right nor a freedom. It’s a homicidal escape hatch for negligent behavior. Rob Kerchner Santa Clarita Submit a Letter to the Editor
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E T H I C A L LY S P E A K I N G
False Gods and False Devils
R
ecently I was reading some of G.K. Chesterton’s thoughts on society, government and power. During the early 20th century, this Roman Catholic philosopher/theologian was among the most perceptive societal critics in England. Chesterton not only viewed what was happening in culture from a moral perspective, he also was amazingly good at describing and defining what was happening in accessible ways. One of his most perceptive ideas caught my attention. He clearly saw that “progress” was often built on the creation of new “gods” or causes, ideals and philosophies that took the role of “god” in that they siphoned off society’s reliance on their religious foundations and fastened them passionately to “instruments of progress.” He once wrote that liberalism is all about progress while conservatism is all about mitigating the unintended consequences of progress. I’ll leave you to figure out what that means and how you feel about it! But what caught my attention was the reality that too often “progress” does make a god out of new ideas, especially when those ideas are in direct conflict with natural law. For example, the current debate on how the Constitution is to be interpreted revolves around whether we should understand the words the framers used in their cultural context or in ours. Does the “pursuit of happiness” mean whatever an individual today desires? Or are we to understand that the meaning of that phrase begins with what the original authors intended their original audience to understand from the words they used? If the latter is the case – as it is in the proper interpretation of all literature since meaning begins with authorial intention – then “happiness” is that which is moral and contributes to the common good. (You can do your own research on that if you want, but you’ll find this to be the truth.) But enough about “false gods.” What I’m really wanting to discuss is Chesterton’s companion belief that those seeking power in society become experts in creating “false devils.” We’ve heard it said that those in power believe “you should never waste a good tragedy.” That is, every possible upheaval in normalcy presents an opportunity to instill fear in the governed, which, in turn, makes them easier to convince, easier to lead and – sadly – easier to dominate. False gods are horrible, but false devils are also quite dangerous. We’re living just now inside a pantheon of false devils brought to us by myriad voices of news services, social media and the entertainment industry, which is busy convincing us that only superheroes can save the day. We are deluged daily with a steady stream of
doom-producing pronouncements. COVID is raging, people are dying, masks and restrictions are coming. China is menacing, North Korea is firing, Russia is conquering. War is coming. Climate change is devastating, farmland is vanishing, air quality is threatening. Education is brainwashing, Democracy is eroding, justice is dying. God is dead, morality is flexible, sexuality is god. Violent crime is threatening, governments are sleeping, private militias are forming, the end is coming. With few exceptions, these doomsday pronouncements leave us feeling sad, fearful and too often helpless. And if they do spur us to some action it will most likely be anger-fueled, which is never helpful. But, before you panic, just stand back and think about it. Where are the facts that ground these false devils in truth? Why should I believe these dire predictions? And how come different news outlets have competing fact sheets? We have to train ourselves to withhold judgment until we can actually ground that judgment on a solid foundation of truth. In other words, wait to worry! I can remember when journalism consisted of giving us the facts and allowing us to come to our own conclusion. Now, far too often we are given the conclusions without any of the facts. In my world, if you want facts, read a good newspaper. Newspaper men and women are often still good journalists. If you trade quick for thorough, you’ll be surrounded by false devils. Perhaps nowhere is the promotion of “false devils” more prevalent than in the world of politics. Politicians seem to want us all to be so scared that we can easily be herded wherever they want to take us. Sadly, much of the media serve as their sheepdogs, biting and nipping at our hearts to drive us panic-stricken in the pen of panic. So, here’s the deal: The election season is upon us and it will be filled with false devils. Don’t fall for them! Get involved! Get educated. Hit the candidates’ websites. Read their blogs, emails, and listen to their speeches. Find out who is telling the truth, and whose views align with your convictions and values. Chase away the false devils, and certainly don’t bow down to the false gods. Be the citizen you want the rest of us to be, and who knows? Maybe we’ll dig through all the layers of falsehood and once again find the bedrock of truth, morality and sanity upon which we can build a city dedicated to life, liberty and the proper pursuit of happiness. Local resident David Hegg is senior pastor of Grace Baptist Church. “Ethically Speaking” appears Sundays.
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