Sunday Signal July 21, 2019 by Signal

JULY 21, 2019

A robotic best friend for those in need Page 5

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J U LY 21, 2019

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 3

TABLE OF CONTENTS

NEWS FEATURES

LOCAL NEWS

TECHNOLOGY

TRAVEL

SPORTS

THINGS TO DO

FROM THE CITY MAYOR

DINING GUIDE RESTAURANT REVIEW

19 20

ENTERTAINMENT

KIDS & FAMILY

CALENDAR HOME IMPROVEMENT

26 27

BEAUTY

SENIOR LIVING

PROFILE

FOOD

HOME & DESIGN

TIME RANGER GARDENING

34 35

OPINION

4 5 6 7

Cicoil marks 50th anniversary of ‘one small step’ Santa Clarita-based Tombot creates robot service dog The SCV preps for the next ‘Big One’ Best practices for traveling with pets

8 Jeremy Rasmussen heads to West Point Supes adopt traffic regulations for local areas SCV Water says ‘cloudy’ water is ‘oxygen bubbles’ 10 Deputies searching for suspect tied to Chinese restaurant burglary City implements traffic-monitoring program 11 Redemption Road K9 hosts rattlesnake avoidance seminar Lackey’s marijuana bill now law 12 The Signal introduces new SignalSCV app CHP officers arrest three on firearm charges Deputies arrest 3 in Old Road traffic stop

13 Screening emails, a Google ‘breakup’ and more 14 Top 10 California places to make ‘sweet’ memories 16 Catching up with the SCV’s Major Leaguers 17 Five wonderful waterparks across the state 18 Prevent wildfires — all it takes is a spark 20 Savory Sonoran and steakhouse fare at El Trocadero 22 Hinder brings hard rock to Canyon Santa Clarita 23 Movie reviews: ‘Maiden’ and ‘Spider-Man: Far From Home’ 24 Celebrate Summer around the Santa Clarita Valley 25 Home safe home — Protect your children with these 5 easy tips Donna’s Day: No-Cook Gazpacho is taste of Spain 27 Installing shiplap; safety when installing drywall 28 5 versatile jewelry styles to define your look 29 A Second Wind — Getting comfortable, being uncomfortable 30 Following her dream, running the Hart District 32 5 tips for stress-free outdoor entertaining 33 How to nail the farmhouse style in your interior decorating Six home trends to consider 35 Do-it-yourself yard art from the most unusual things 39 Our View • David Hegg • Tim Whyte

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4 · S U N D AYS I G N A L

J U LY 21, 2019

N E W S F E AT U R E S

Cicoil marks 50th anniversary of ‘one small step’

By Emily Alvarenga Signal Staff Writer

n 1969, Apollo 11 astronauts Neil Armstrong, Buzz Aldrin and Michael Collins launched from Florida’s Kennedy Space Center with the goal of being the first to walk on the moon. July 20 marks the 50th anniversary of that dream being achieved as Neil Armstrong took his famous “one small step.” Here in Valencia, Cicoil, an electronics manufacturer and the inventor of the bio-harnesses worn by all three astronauts, is also celebrating the 50th anniversary with great pride for their role in the historic moment. “It’s a really cool piece of history,” president and CEO Howard Lind said. “It’s very special to everyone at Cicoil that NASA selected our flat cables 50 years ago, but even more special to have been part of Neil Armstrong’s famous ‘first step for man,’ and ‘giant leap for mankind.’” The harnesses were worn on the inside of each astronaut’s space suit, and were an integral part of the mission as they allowed for continuous monitoring of vital signs, such as blood pressure, respiration, body temperature and pulse rate, for each astronaut throughout the mission, which in NASA’s words was “vital to the successful achievement” of these missions, according to Rich Buchicchio, Cicoil national sales and marketing manager. Using the vitals transmitted back to Earth during the mission, we know that the Apollo 11 astronauts were actually pretty calm during liftoff — Armstrong was the most excited with a rate of 110 bpm with Collins at 99 and a calm Aldrin at just 88 bpm. But getting to the moon was hardly smooth sailing, according to a NASA Apollo 11 mission report. “When the Eagle was supposed to land on the moon, it was touch and go whether or not they were going to continue the mission or abort it,” Lind said. “It was really close because they didn’t know if they had enough fuel to get down and then get back up.” The astronauts did some calculations and “Neil Armstrong said, ‘No, we’re going, we know we have enough.’”

“They did calculations themselves on a piece of paper and they made the call — they didn’t even wait for Houston,” Lind added. “They measured the (astronaut’s) heart rates when they were going down (to land on the moon) and (Armstrong’s) heart rate was almost 160 beats a minute, so his heart was racing. It was a lot of pressure … There was a big chance they weren’t going to come back.” The astronauts wore the 26-inchlong, zero-gravity harnesses from start to finish, including on board the Columbia Command Module during the lunar orbit and the Eagle Lunar Module that landed on the moon’s surface as well as on the historic first and second walks. Products like these harnesses typically take a year or two to produce as they undergo various testing, Lind said. Cicoil’s harnesses were chosen over other design options for the quality and reliability along with the ability for it to be really lightweight and compact, Lind said. The harness was also able to withstand the rugged and harsh environments of space, including the extreme temperatures astronauts would face, according to Lind. “With the heat of the liftoff and the extreme cold and the vacuum when you’re up in space, along with the

Above: Certified soldering and cable assembly technicians assemble cable connectors on the manufacturing floor at Cicoil in Valencia. Right: Quality Control Inspector Nolan Lerit prepares to test cables on the manufacturing floor at Cicoil in Valencia. Company officials noted July 20 marked the 50th anniversary of their support of the first moon landing. PHOTOS BY DAN WATSON / THE SIGNAL

ultraviolet light, space can be harsh,” Lind added. The harness also had separately encase signal pairs to eliminate electronic interference, providing uninterrupted signal back to the space station, Buchicchio said. Cicoil’s were the only harnesses that met all of these needs during each of the numerous phases of the mission with both intra-vehicular and extra-vehicular activity. Today, Cicoil still has the original drawings of the harnesses from 1968 hanging in their office in Valencia, while the original harnesses can be seen in the Smithsonian Museum in Washington, D.C. In addition to the Apollo 11 mission, these harnesses were worn by Alan Shepherd when he became the first American to travel to space, John Glenn when he became the first American to orbit the Earth, and for Edward White to be the first Ameri-

can to walk in space. Now, Cicoil continues to make flat cables that are used throughout the aerospace and military industry, as well as some commercial or industrial equipment, such as medical diagnostics. “In fact, we have cables on the Voyager probe that just left the galaxy, so our cables have literally traveled billions and billions of miles in space,” Lind said. “Basically every military satellite that’s orbiting has our cable assemblies in the satellites.” Cicoil’s flat cables have even made it into the world’s first 3D robotic sign in Coca-Cola’s Times Square landmark unveiled in 2017. And all of these products are manufactured right here in Santa Clarita by the approximately 85 employees who work at their facility. Cicoil Corporation is located at 24960 Ave, Tibbitts in Valencia. For more information, visit cicoil.com.

J U LY 21, 2019

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 5

N E W S F E AT U R E S

Santa Clarita-based Tombot creates robot service dog By Tammy Murga Signal Staff Writer

t’s hard not to look at Labrador puppy Jennie and resist petting her. She has large floppy ears, fluffy golden fur and a tail that can’t stop wagging. Without a doubt, the canine has all the ingredients to become your new best friend. But she’s not a real dog. “Jennie” is the first prototype for Tombot, a robotic puppy with the hyper-realistic appearance and feel, created by a Santa Clarita-based company that goes by the same name, for individuals facing health adversities such as dementia and autism. “Jennie is a robotic emotional support animal,” said Tom Stevens, CEO and creator of the Tombot Inc., which was founded in October 2017 in collaboration with Jim Henson’s Creature Shop — the visual effects company behind The Muppets. “She was designed originally to meet the specific needs of seniors with dementia.” Older people often struggle with loneliness and isolation, a feeling nobody likes to experience, but for folks with dementia, the problem is especially painful. In fact, 35% of people with dementia say they feel lonely and have lost friends, based on a report by the Alzheimer’s Society. For years, research has shown that using animal-assisted therapy on older adults with dementia has significantly decreased agitated behaviors and significantly increased social interaction, according to a UCLA Health report. That was the case for Stevens’ mother, Nancy, who was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s in 2011, he said. “My mother had a 2-year-old Goldendoodle named Golden Bear that she managed to train to be aggressive toward her caregiver,” said Stevens. “She was very unhappy about having a caregiver move in with her. The caregiver would enter the room, the dog would growl. My mom laughed and petted the dog, reinforcing the behavior — and pretty soon, we had a problem on our hands.” Fortunately, he was able to find a new home for the dog, but Nancy was

From left, Tombot COO Jesse Schorz, CEO Thomas Stevens and CTO Hank Schorz sit behind a proof-of-concept robotic dog named Jennie, which was developed for dementia patients. PHOTOS BY CORY RUBIN / THE SIGNAL

very upset. Stevens then started looking for substitutes for live animals, but did not find something that his mother liked or responded to at the time. “So, I started wondering if technology might play a role,” said Stevens. After Stevens earned his master’s degree from Stanford and engaged in a multi-year research exploration and, he launched Tombot. One prototype given to his mother, which she named Bob, was just what she needed. “She had fallen and broken her leg about 18 months ago, and she was in the hospital for about four weeks,” he said. “Whenever a medical professional would enter the room, she would scream in terror, convinced they were there to put her in more pain. We ran and got her dog from the house and gave it to her. She clutched it very tight to her chest and said, ‘Bob is helping me relax.’” Nancy, although still in pain and under stress, was medically compliant and had stopped screaming. Like live animals or anything that’s an emotional attachment object, Bob became very important to Nancy — a tool for coping. Similar results have also taken place at a nursing home in Thousand Oaks, where a test version of the robot dog was presented. Tombot will soon begin to manufacture puppies, but people can al-

ready pre-order their Labrador, which Stevens said will come in different shades. The robotic animal has already “been preordered by parents or grandparents on behalf of children with autism and other special needs, adults with major depressive disorder, PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder), and anxiety, as well as hospitals,” said Stevens. About 30% of interested buyers have indicated use for other reasons other than to treat behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia, according to a survey Tombot conducted for a pre-order launch Kickstarter.

How it works

Jennie is designed to accurately emulate not only the appearance and texture but also the behaviors of a real dog — without the feature to bite and without any hypoallergenic and antimicrobial materials. The 20-inch long and five-pound prototype, which can be recharged such as you would a smartphone, is covered in sensors, consisting of 16 motors, seven of which are placed in the neck area to help the robot move realistically. “She can feel where and how she’s being touched,” said Stevens. “She can tell the difference between a simple touch, a slow caress, a vigorous pet and being held. She responds to voice

commands, but only with her name. She can feel herself being moved if we change her position. We have her programmed to go to sleep.” Much like a smart mobile device, the robot dogs have the ability to download new software whenever a system update is available, according to Jesse Schorz, COO at Tombot. The robot puppies are currently designed as lap dogs, rather than ones that walk because they could become a tripping hazard for people with dementia, said Stevens. Tombot is fully designed and engineered in the U.S., and its supply chain would most likely be based somewhere in Asia, he added. Besides aiding individuals with their health needs, the company also aims to help those with fixed incomes as the Tombot will retail for $450, a significantly lower price from its competitor PARO, a therapeutic seal pup used in nursing homes for more than 15 years, which is priced at $6,400. As the company progresses, different breeds and even cats could be introduced. The Tombot team also sees potential in target market growth for their products. “People that are afraid of dogs, families with small children where it’s not yet safe to have a live animal. We’re focused on people with health adversities but we’re happy to provide one of our robots to anyone,” said Stevens. Tombots are expected to go through final safety and regulatory certifications by January 2020, and be ready for first customer shipments by May 2020. To receive updates and learn more about the company, visit www.tombot.com.

6 · S U N D AYS I G N A L

J U LY 21, 2019

N E W S F E AT U R E S

The SCV preps for the next ‘Big One’

Are you ready if the next “big one?” The recent Ridgecrest earthquakes that also shook the Santa Clarita Valley offered painful reminders for some residents of the deadly 1994 Northridge Earthquake, pictured above, which was much closer and devastated the SCV. SIGNAL PHOTOS By Caleb Lunetta Signal Staff Writer

reality could be in the near future.

outhern California is due for the earthquake that experts and residents alike have dubbed “The Big One,” according to seismologists at the California Institute of Technology. “The further in time we go away from a big event, the less likely something is going to happen,” said Jennifer Andrews, a Caltech seismologist. “But we are overdue for ‘The Big One.’” After a number of earthquakes and aftershocks hit the Southland during this past Fourth of July weekend, with the Ridgecrest Earthquake having hit a 7.1-magnitude on the Richter Scale, residents and experts in Santa Clarita are returning and preparing for this idea that “The Big One” could happen any day. Since those quakes, residents throughout Santa Clarita have taken stock of their earthquake supplies and community leaders and medical professionals have reaffirmed their plans in the event that an earthquake as large and as close to Santa Clarita as say the 1994 Northridge Earthquake hits again. And, based on the science, that

“Ridgecrest is not an indication that it’s the apocalypse or anything like that,” said Andrews, adding the Ridgecrest line is a fault that ruptured is a part of the Little Lake fault zone, a distance away from San Andreas. Basically geologists have looked back at the San Andreas, and found out how often the fault line had caused a 7- or 8-point magnitude earthquake on the richter scale, and they then decide a repeat rate. The San Andreas, according to Andrews, is supposed to record one of that size at least once every 150-200 years, depending on which section of the fault you look at. In reference to the southern portion of the San Andreas fault — which, at times, runs parallel to the Santa Clarita Valley — has not gone off at that magnitude in approximately 300 years, she said. “That’s really quite a long time for us to not have had a San Andreas, big earthquake,” Andrews said. “But it’s not predictable … and it’s not like clockwork.” Geographically speaking, Santa Clarita not only sits near the San Andreas faultline, but also sits on San

CalTech

Gabriel fault line, there’s the Sierra Madre fault zones, and the blindthrust fault, Northridge. “There are thrust faults running through Santa Clarita, and there are possibly some we don’t know are there,” said Andrews. Andrews did add, however, the San Gabriel fault line has a much longer “slip rate,” and it’s “definitely not as active.” “It’s not one of the most active faults in Southern California, but we can’t say for definite when we would expect it to move,” she said. The Northridge earthquake was a 6.7 on the richter scale, and Ridgecrest was a 7.1, but the damage and effect an earthquake has on people is all about the location of the epicenter. “If that had been in downtown Los Angeles, it would have been significantly damaging,” said Andrews. “Ridgecrest was in a relatively sparsely populated area, but if you had relocated it to one of our densely populated areas, you would have seen significant damage.” In addition to causing road closures, damaging buildings, possibly bringing down items overhanging both outdoor and indoor, quakes can also damage and rupture utility lines underneath the ground.

City, Henry Mayo

Caltech is not alone in reviewing what they can about the possibility of “The Big One,” with City of Santa Clarita officials informing residents about what work they’re doing in anticipation of an event, Henry Mayo Newhall Hospital expanding its assets and families revisiting their emergency plans. According to Donna Nuzzi, the emergency services supervisor with the city, one of the city’s priorities has been to review infrastructure, ensure that it’s up to code, and increase internal infrastructures that improve communication in the aftermath of an event. “Immediately after, our concerns will be to do our due diligence, putting out good public information, we’ll be supporting evacuations were needed with our transportation and making sure shelters are open,” said Nuzzi. “We need to get an assessment of the infrastructure the roads and let people know what roads are open and coordinating with the water agencies to make sure the water is safe.” Nuzzi said the city staff has training sessions with their staff to prepare for these instances and needs in the See BIG ONE, page 39

J U LY 21, 2019

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 7

Best practices for traveling with pets By Emily Alvarenga Signal Staff Writer

t’s summer time, which also means it’s time for summer vacations. Preparing for a trip can be stressful on its own, but for those with pets, it can seem like a daunting task. When making travel decisions, be sure to first decide whether it’ll be best to bring your pet along for the journey. Unless you’ll be able to spend a lot of time with your dog, they’ll probably be more comfortable at home, and cats are almost always better off staying home. If you’ve decided to bring your pet along, here are some tips to ensure a fun and safe trip. Nancy Anderson, the founder of The Brittany Foundation, a nonprofit dog rescue, said traveling with pets is kind of like getting ready for an earthquake, meaning you need to ensure you’ve got all the essentials you need ready in case you can’t get back home.

Packing for your pet

The first step in creating your pet’s “emergency bag” is to be sure to have enough food and water available for them for the entire trip. “Always make sure that they have the water that they are used to drinking because water varies across states,” Anderson said. Parasites in water could get your pet sick, so be sure to pack enough water, or plan to buy bottled water. It’s also important to keep your

pet’s food the same, as they might get an upset stomach from any changes, which would not be fun for them while on a trip, according to both Anderson and local vet Dr. Kathy Peters. Peters and Anderson also both suggest taking some of the bedding your pet is used to, so they are comfortable. “You certainly want to make the trip as familiar as possible, so they don’t get stressed out,” Anderson said. “Don’t forget to pack your pet’s favorite toys as well — these will go a long way to making sure they’re staying happy,” Peters said. Be sure to also verify that your pet not only has a collar and tag for identification with up-to-date information, but also that they are microchipped and that the chip is registered, Anderson and Peters said. “Everybody carries their cell phone with them, so the best number (to go) on the tag would be a cell phone number,” Anderson added. Don Belton, spokeswoman for Los Angeles County Department of Animal Care and Control, also suggests making sure your pets are vaccinated, taking flea and tick preventive medication and have had a wellness exam within the past year. If your pet takes any medications, don’t forget to pack those too, even if you don’t think they’ll need them during the trip. “You also want to make sure you have some meds on hand in case they get sick,” Anderson said. “If they do get upset tummies or diarrhea, there

When planning a trip with a pet, it’s important to consider how much time you’ll be able to spend with that pet. Unless you’ll be able to spend a lot of time with your dog, they’ll probably be more comfortable at home, and cats are almost always better off staying home..

N E W S F E AT U R E S

Nancy Anderson, founder of The Brittany Foundation a nonprofit dog rescue, said traveling with pets is kind of like getting ready for an earthquake, meaning you need to ensure you’ve got all the essentials you need ready in case you can’t get back home. A portable potable water supply is a must. PHOTO BY CORY RUBIN / THE SIGNAL

are certain meds you can possibly get from the vet to take with you that takes care of bacteria or infection.” Both Peters and Anderson agree that carrying some Benadryl can be useful in case your pet encounters a bee or simply to calm them down if they become stressed or anxious. When packing, don’t forget to carry a working leash and walking vest so they will be comfortable when taking a walk in a new territory, according to Anderson. Belton agrees and added, “Make sure halters, collars and leashes are in good condition.” Also, don’t forget to take into account the weather that you will be traveling to, Peters said. If your dog will be exposed to the elements, pack booties or paw wax if the temperatures will be high, and a sweater if your pet is known to be cold, Peters added. “When hiking or going out for walks, caution with the hot ground or pavement,” Belton said. “If it’s too hot for you to go barefoot, it’s too hot for them too.”

Choosing your method of transportation

When traveling with pets, it is always safer and most times cheaper to drive with them, according to Peters.

In cars, either travel with them in a crate or a restraint of sorts, Anderson, Peters and Belton agreed. “Either put a crate in the car, so they are contained, or look for a little seat belt,” Anderson said. “And if you’re traveling alone with your dog, definitely strap them in.” Cats should always travel in carriers as they aren’t typically comfortable in cars, Peters said. “If they are going into a carrier, it’s important to restrain the carriers so that they can’t bounce around and hurt your animal,” Peters added. Even if you’re traveling alone, be sure to keep your pets in the back seats, both Anderson and Peters said. “Just like for children, if an airbag deploys while your pet is in the passenger seat, even if they’re in a crate, it could injure them,” Peters said. No matter which method you decide on, you still must be as prepared as possible, Anderson said. That being said, you need to get your pet used to the car and desensitize them and used to crates as well. If flying with your pet is the only or best option, first find out if they can travel in the cabin with you, Peters said. “Most airlines will let you take a See PETS, page 39

8 · S U N D AYS I G N A L

J U LY 21, 2019

LOCALNEWS

Jeremiah Rasmussen heads to West Point Editor’s note: This is the second in a continuing series looking at Santa Clarita Valley residents who earned acceptance into the various U.S. military academies. By Caleb Lunetta Signal Staff Writer

oing to West Point was not always in the cards for recent Hart High School graduate Jeremiah Rasmussen. But once it was, he was running toward it. Before heading to the U.S. Military Academy at West Point two weeks ago, Rasmussen earned a 3.89 gradepoint average as a student-athlete at Hart. And although he found success

Jeremiah Rasmussen, a former Hart High School runner, plans to run cross-country for West Point in the fall, and track & field in the spring. COURTESY PHOTOS

in the classroom, the 400 meters of track and the rolling distance courses of Santa Clarita were always his primary passion.

Supes adopt traffic regulations for local areas By Tammy Murga Signal Staff Writer

he Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors voted Tuesday to make a series of changes in traffic regulations that affect some areas in the Santa Clarita Valley. For the Stevenson Ranch community, an unincorporated part of the county, supervisors voted to adopt a traffic regulation establishing a 35 mph speed limit on Westridge Parkway between its westerly terminus of Stonegate Drive and Valencia Boulevard. “For the first time, this portion of Westridge Parkway will have a set speed limit,” said Steven Frasher, public information officer for the county’s Public Works Department. “There were no codified speed regulations there; it was kind of like highway speed there.” This area of the community is mainly residential and has nearby schools and recreation areas. In Castaic, also an unincorporated portion of the county, eastbound traffic on Black Oak Lane at its intersection with The Old Road will receive a stop sign, according to a county board letter on the matter.

Eastbound traffic on Victoria Road and Pinto Place at The Old Road in Castaic already have stop signs but will be codified to “formalize what’s already there,” said Frasher. The neighborhoods around these streets are also residential. Selection of these traffic regulations stems from a traffic study conducted by the county as a result of requests by residents and community groups in the affected areas with the ultimate purpose “to improve traffic safety and enhance traffic flow,” according to the board letter. “Residents make suggestions, as they could and should, with what they observe, and then a traffic study is done to see the merits of what they’re observing, and in this case, there was a justifying rationale for establishing a speed limit,” said Frasher. The changes fall under the county’s strategic plan goals, “Make Environmental Sustainability our Daily Reality,” which “supports a clean, flexible and integrated multimodal transportation system that improves mobility and traffic safety.” The appropriate signages are slated to be installed within 12 weeks of the supervisors’ adoption Tuesday.

He said he had only decided to go to West Point in October after a friend had decided to go there and told him what life at the academy and in the military was all about. “I wasn’t planning on joining the military, but I think it’s going to be a really cool experience,” said Rasmussen. “It sounded like a good opportunity … it was about the challenge.” And even though he wasn’t planning on joining the military while growing up, he saw it as a chance to do something he had always wanted to do. “I’m thinking of going into something along the lines of engineering,” Rasmussen said, adding that he enjoyed playing with Legos while growing up and could see himself as a civil or mechanical engineer one day. He’ll also be running competitively

for the Army Black Knights, mainly in the 1,600-meter race. And although he’s always wanted to travel around the world — which he believes he’ll be able to do as a member of the armed services — and be able to pursue engineering and running, which he’s always wanted to do, the challenge does have Rasmussen a little bit worried, he said. “I’m excited and nervous,” he said. “There’s lots of military training, getting used to a military lifestyle while getting out of a civilian life. That is the thing I’ve been thinking about, mostly.” Rasmussen said he’ll need to complete West Point’s basic training program over the course of the next six weeks, which runs all the way until school starts Aug. 19. Once that is over, however, the work for a student-athlete is not over. “I’ll be waking up on time, doing more military training, and then running in college involves running all around the country.” Travel, school and training aside, he’s going to take it one day at a time, and continue to do what got him into West Point in the first place, he said. “It’s going to come down to prioritizing my time, doing what you have to do, getting it done as soon as possible,” said Rasmussen. “Just staying on top of things is going to be a big deal for me.”

SCV Water says ‘cloudy’ water is ‘oxygen bubbles’ By Signal Staff

fter residents of the North Park Valencia area reported several days of cloudy water, the Santa Clarita Valley Water Agency said this week that the water is still drinkable. “We’re getting reports of ‘milky’ or ‘cloudy’ looking water,” a Facebook post from the SCV Water Agency stated. “Not to worry! You’re just seeing oxygen bubbles due to entrapped air at a well site … your water quality meets all local, state and federal

drinking water regulations.” SCV Water spokeswoman Kathie Martin added that residents were advised to wait a minute after pouring a glass of water so the bubbles could dissipate. “The air in the well is the source of the cloudy and milky water,” Martin said. “It’s perfectly clear after (letting it settle), so the water is clean and safe to drink. It’s just an aesthetic issue.” Local officials directed residents to bit.ly/2JEJh for more information.

J U LY 21, 2019

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10 · S U N D AYS I G N A L

J U LY 21, 2019

LOCALNEWS

Deputies searching for suspect tied to Chinese restaurant burglary By Tammy Murga Signal Staff Writer

fter responding to reports of a front door smashed at a Newhall restaurant Tuesday morning, deputies are looking for a burglary suspect in connection to the incident. Santa Clarita Valley sheriff ’s deputies arrived at the 23700 block of Lyons Avenue around 9 a.m., where they found Mandarin Wong Chinese Restaurant to have no front door and remnants of a cash register. “The glass door was broken, but we got it fixed in the morning and opened for business at 11 a.m.,” said the store manager, who asked to remain anonymous. “There was about $70 in the cash register.” Deputies received a call from a neighboring business, who spotted the front door had been smashed, said Shirley Miller, spokeswoman for the SCV Sheriff ’s Station. “This is still relatively new, and detectives are determining with the restaurant what exactly happened and when the burglary took place, but I can only assume this happened anytime between Monday night when the business closed and early Tuesday

A burglary suspect was caught on camera smashing through the front door of the Mandarin Wong Chinese Restaurant in Newhall. PHOTO BY DAN WATSON / THE SIGNAL

morning,” she said. Deputies are looking through surveillance footage that reveals the suspect, whose face is covered by the hood of a sweater, breaking and entering the restaurant, smashing the cash register and a savings bank containing tips.

The burglary incident came as a surprise to some in the area, saying the vicinity is calm for the most part, according to Giovany Salinas, an employee at neighboring business Final Score Food and Beverage. As of Tuesday evening, no one is in

custody and a report was still being processed, Miller added. Anyone with additional information can contact law enforcement by calling detectives at 661-255-1121, ext. 5146, or submit anonymous tips to the Los Angeles Crime Stoppers.

City implements traffic-monitoring program By Tammy Murga Signal Staff Writer

ike all technology in use, malfunctions can occur — especially under extreme temperatures. To help prevent major breakdowns with Santa Clarita’s traffic-control system, the city is testing out new environment monitors at major intersections as part of a pilot program. AVTECH Software, a company specializing in environment monitoring hardware and software, announced Wednesday that the city’s Traffic and Transportation Planning Division has selected its most popular environmental monitor, Room Alert, to try and improve commutes and reduce traffic congestion.

The city of Santa Clarita is testing environment monitors throughout the city to monitor traffic signals to improve commute times and reduce repair costs. SIGNAL FILE PHOTO

Environmental conditions

Room Alert is a software capable of proactively monitoring environmental conditions such as temperature,

humidity, flood, power and smoke. Organizations across 186 countries use the system, ranging from thousands of small businesses to Amazon,

Lockheed Martin, AT&T, the United Nations and multiple local governments, according to an AVTECH news release. Santa Clarita initially used the system for temperature monitoring of a heating, ventilation and air conditioning failure, but city traffic engineers found out they could also implement the technology to monitor nearly 200 light signal enclosures and for inoperable railroad gates that can cause traffic delays, with the goal of improving traffic flow and reducing repair or replacement costs. While no cost study has been conducted yet, traffic equipment replacements as a result of high heat could range between $3,000 to $5,000 and, with power loss or overheating, See TRAFFIC, page 12

J U LY 21, 2019

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 1 1

LOCALNEWS

Redemption Road K9 hosts rattlesnake avoidance seminar By Caleb Lunetta Signal Staff Writer

ith several local species of live rattlesnakes from the Santa Clarita Valley area, Redemption Road K9 held a rattlesnake avoidance seminar Saturday for about 35 local residents and their dogs. The event was intended to educate the public on the types of snakes to be mindful of and what to do in the event that you encounter one, along with training dogs to avoid the sight, sound and smell of a rattlesnake. Redemption Road K9, a working dog company, hosted the event with the help of wildlife conservationist and zookeeper Jungle Jordan Veasley. “Even just with the knowledge these people get here today, they’ll be able to take it back to their family, friends and loved ones, and I think we’ll be saving a lot of human lives and dog lives,” said John Anthony, trainer and owner of Redemption Road. Experienced trainers and handlers, including canine behavioral consultant Tanya Yarbrough, worked with the dogs one-on-one, focusing on their body language and reaction to a snake. The event, which cost $25 for those in attendance and is offered only once or twice a year, provided lectures throughout the day about snake awareness, and then had attendees hear from professionals in the field about what to do in the event their dog is bitten. The rattlesnake avoidance training

Melissa Lopez and her dog, Beowolf, attend the Redemption Road K9 rattlesnake avoidance seminar Saturday. Lopez was among the dozens of local residents to attend the event with their dogs. PHOTOS BY CALEB LUNETTA / THE SIGNAL

company SnakeWorx led a station that featured muzzled rattlesnakes. Dog owners were allowed to have their dogs encounter a live snake and be trained to avoid it. Once the snake, whose bite was rendered ineffective by having its mouth closed by two bands across its jaws, reared its head on the dog and lurched out, the dog would receive a small shock from a shock collar, according to Dave Dooros, one of the Snakework trainers present.

A dog is taught to avoid a rattlesnake, which had its mouth muzzled, during the seminar.

“A rattlesnake is going to cause a lot damage to the dog,” said Dooros. “It’s going to disfigure the dog, potentially kill the dog and it’s going to

be a $2,000 vet bill. So this is for the dogs’ safety, and it’s like teaching a child to not put the hand on the stove when it’s hot. We’re teaching the dog to come up to the stove, and telling them it’s hot before they get burned.” Melissa Lopez was in attendance at the event, not only for the education about different types of snakes in Santa Clarita and to learn about their importance to local ecosystems, but also to learn more about how she can help people in her professional work. “I’ve been living out in Agua Dulce for a few years now, and I work at a vet clinic, and I just see enough rattlesnake bites and kind of the cost of it ... and the thing I’m most paranoid about is my dog getting bit by a snake,” said Lopez, who was in attendance with her dog, Beowolf. “Most people react in fear from them, and they tend to freak out and freak out their dogs ... so that’s why I’m out here promoting this amazing information.”

Lackey’s marijuana bill now law By Brennon Dixson Signal Staff Writer

ssemblyman Tom Lackey’s effort to further research on the effects of driving while high was signed into law by Gov. Gavin Newsom last week. Prior to the passage of Assembly Bill 127, the California Highway Patrol was limited in the ways it could research the impacts that cannabis impairment has on a person’s driving ability. But with the legalization of adult-use cannabis through Proposition 64, Lackey, R-Palmdale, said the CHP needed a more accurate way to detect when a driver is under the influence of cannabis.

“Because cannabis is still federally classified as a Schedule I substance, there are few studies providing empirically supported evidence regarding the impairing effects of cannabis on driving-related skills,” the Center for Medicinal Cannabis Research stated in the bill’s analysis, adding, “more research is needed for the department to have a clearer understanding of (marijuana’s) effects.” With the new law, a person who is under the supervision and on the property of the CHP will now be allowed to drive a vehicle while under the influence of a drug, or while under the combined influence of a drug and alcohol, for the purpose of conducting research on impaired driving, according to the analysis.

12 · S U N D AYS I G N A L

J U LY 21, 2019

LOCALNEWS

The Signal introduces new SignalSCV app By Perry Smith Signal Managing Editor

or newshounds who want their breaking Santa Clarita Valley news delivered into the palms of their hands wherever they are, there’s now an

CHP officers arrest three on firearm charges By Perry Smith Signal Managing Editor

alifornia Highway Patrol officers made three arrests in the early-morning hours Saturday that resulted from an alleged speeding violation, officials said. CHP officers reported a car allegedly “fluctuating between 85 and 95 mph,” according to Josh Greengard, spokesman for the CHP-Newhall Area office. Officers spotted a white Kia Optima heading northbound, south of Red Rover Mine Road in Acton, shortly after 4 a.m., Greengard said. The alleged speeding violation prompted officers to conduct a traffic stop. During officers’ investigation, they reported finding a firearm, Greengard said. The driver, a 20-year-old woman from Los Angeles, was arrested on suspicion of being an occupant with a concealed firearm in a vehicle. Her two male passengers, a 21-year-old from Moreno Valley and a 25-year-old from Palmdale, were convicted felons, according to Greengard. One was also arrested on suspicion of being an occupant with a concealed firearm in a vehicle, and the other was arrested on suspicion of carrying a loaded firearm. All three individuals were taken into custody at the Santa Clarita Valley Sheriff ’s Station jail.

app for you. The Santa Clarita Valley’s most trusted news source for more than 100 years, The Signal, now has a new app available to deliver its online content digitally. Free to download on iTunes and the Google Play store, the app offers everything available on SignalSCV. com in a format fit for a mobile device. The new app streams The Signal’s local news, sports and opinions right to your favorite mobile device as soon as they’re online. “The Signal has always strived to bring its readership news and updates on local events as fast as

possible,” said Richard Budman, publisher of The Signal. “This new app will make that experience more convenient for our audience who prefers to have their news streamed to their mobile device.” The app also allows you to find any Signal content found online through an app search. “The Signal has always been about bringing the Santa Clarita Valley community the news and information it relies on from a local perspective,” said Signal Editor Tim Whyte, “and the new SignalSCV app is another interactive way for our online viewers to enjoy the news they’ve counted on for decades.

We’re really excited about this new, free way our audience has to enjoy our content.” Anyone interested in downloading the free app can go to where they normally add apps to their devices and search for “SignalSCV.” The Signal is also offering a chance to win prizes to those who download the app, $500 cash and $100 gift certificates will be given out to randomly selected winners. There’s more information at your app store, search “SignalSCV,” or contact The Signal at Share@signalscv. com or 661-259-1000.

Deputies arrest 3 in Old Road traffic stop By Perry Smith Signal Managing Editor

anta Clarita Valley Sheriff ’s Station deputies investigating a traffic stop arrested three on Friday evening, after allegedly finding drugs and counterfeit currency. Deputies were patrolling on The Old Road, near Chiquella Lane, around 6 p.m., when they found a car that wasn’t properly registered, according to Shirley Miller, spokeswoman for the SCV Sheriff ’s Station. “When deputies did a license plate check, the registration came up as expired,” Miller stated in an

TRAFFIC

Continued from page 10

traffic signals could stop working and cause increased traffic congestion, according to Cesar Romo, traffic signal system administrator with the city.

Cost for technology

The technology costs anywhere from $200 to $500 per intersection, and it’s currently being used at 10 intersections, according to city officials. There are plans to expand that to add 40 more intersections within about a month.

email to The Signal. “Deputies initially conducted the traffic stop to warn and/or cite.” During the course of their investigation, deputies noticed another alleged violation, Miller said: narcotics paraphernalia. “Deputies also came across a counterfeit U.S. currency bill and narcotics (methamphetamine and heroin) in the vehicle,” Miller added. Arrested in the incident were: a 34-year-old IT engineer from Calabasas, on suspicion of possession of a controlled substance, heroin; a 32-year-old salesman from Calabasas, on suspicion of possession of

controlled substances, methamphetamine and heroin; and a 22-yearold woman from Saugus, who was arrested on suspicion of possession of counterfeit currency. The incident serves as a reminder of deputies’ constant vigilance, Miller said. “That’s just part of what they do — whether they’re in between calls or whether they’re patrolling around,” she said. “They’re checking the license plates, which sometimes will come back that an individual had a warrant; or, in some cases, they find out that a vehicle is stolen. They’re always checking into details.”

“We have implemented this at nine intersections, and if there’s a power outage or if a railroad gate gets stuck, we will be notified,” he said. “This will help us fix the issue faster. We’re always looking at proactively doing things and finding ways to improve traffic flow in the city. This is just another example.” The city’s traffic team could receive notifications via automated email and text message within five minutes of system failure. Previously, notifications would not be received until up to an hour after the traffic problem started, according

to the news release. “Room Alert monitors and sensors have already proven that they can reduce damage and downtime caused by high temperatures and unexpected power loss,” Richard Grundy, AVTECH president and COO, said in a prepared statement. “We’re confident that Room Alert will improve the city’s traffic flow and help to decrease commute times across the region.” Should testing of Room Alert work for Santa Clarita, the goal is to implement the software at more intersections, said Romo.

J U LY 21, 2019

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 1 3

TECHNOLOGY

Screening emails, a Google ‘breakup’ and more internationally once a month.

By Kim Komando Signal Contributing Writer

Google breakup

Vetting email

Q: I hate that Google tracks me. Are there ways to have a Google-free online life?

Q: My email has gotten so loaded up with junk that I am skeptical when I get any messages from my bank, utilities, and even you. What do I do?

A: There are, but you have to jump through a few hoops to get to nirvana. One way to protect your personal information while browsing online is to download Tor, which encrypts your every movement and grants you access to the Dark Web. That may be overkill, which is why you need to first try free and easy to use browsers that offer a privacy-focused alternative to Google.

A: Spam takes many forms, and many of us face a tidal wave of vague threats, phony offers, creepy solicitations, and unsettling photos before we’ve finished our first cup of coffee. You’re right to be skeptical. Use common sense and never respond to an email asking for account numbers, password resets, or personal details. When in doubt, call the company in question. You’re not alone. If you’d like a more personal reflection, take a look at my own inbox.

Amazon audit Q: My wife spends too much money on Amazon. She uses multiple credit cards to hide her purchases. Can I get a total of all her orders?

Cut through customs Q: I’ve heard there is an app that helps you get through customs easier after you’ve traveled internationally. Is it safe? A: I used the Mobile Passport myself the other day coming back from Italy, and it’s great. Enter in your passport details, answer a few questions, and when you land back in the United States, tap Submit. You’ll get a QR code to expedite processing. At Customs and Border Control, look for a sign that says, “Mobile Passport.” That line will be a lot shorter than any other lines! The free version works fine. I don’t think you need the pay version unless you travel

A: Before I go into the technical details, I urge you to stage an intervention because what you’re describing sounds like addiction, and there may be more at stake than an outstanding credit card debt. Okay, that said: If you share an Amazon account and have full access, you can review every purchase anyone has ever made. This will be trickier if she has her own account, but Amazon makes it very easy to revisit your complete transaction history. This way, you can tally up exactly how much was spent (and on what) and you will have hard evidence to present if you decide to intervene.

Routing ransomware Q: I’ve been hearing about cities that pay big bucks to get out of ran-

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somware. How do they get it in the first place? A: LooCipher is probably the scariest ransomware to date, and you’re right, cybercriminals behind it are targeting city services, which could result in any number of injuries and deaths. Major U.S. cities are panicking over this issue, as well they should. Because the “weak link” isn’t a failed firewall or a turncoat on the inside; it’s just a regular employee, opening his email and clicking the wrong link. One corrupted folder can wreck an entire network, and it can cost enormous amounts of money. This is a far cry from an individual user getting locked out of his personal computer. Sometimes agencies will decide to pay the ransom; sometimes they try to figure it out internally. Either way, the ransomware can cause unspeakable damage, and city governments may reel from its effects for years.

Online auctioneers Q: What’s the best online auction site? A: eBay is still the reigning champion of online auctions. The 24-yearold company has managed to stay current, and its gross merchandise volume is $94 billion per year, which is nothing to sneeze at. This is good news for people who like eBay’s format and don’t mind its wild west atmosphere; many entrepreneurs run entire businesses through eBay and do not need for a “regular” job. That said, eBay is cluttered with junk and scammers, and it’s easy for some stranger to dupe you into a flawed or falsely advertised product. For information on Kim Komando on today’s digital lifestyle, from smartphones and tablets to online privacy and data hacks, visit her at Komando. com.

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14 · S U N D AYS I G N A L

J U LY 21, 2019

T R AV E L

Top 10 California places to make ‘sweet’ memories By Michele E. Buttelman Signal Staff Writer

uly is national ice cream month. What better way to celebrate than to hit the road with a list of “must-visit, must-taste” ice cream parlors in your pocket or purse? Here are 10 “road-trip worthy” of the miles … and the calories. There’s even a few “day-trip” options for Santa Clarita Valley residents who want a few “local-ish” options.

Cowlick’s Ice Cream

250 N. Main St., Fort Bragg Info www.cowlicksicecream.com Cowlick’s Ice Cream is an icon of the North Coast, made with local ingredients, in small batches and all by hand. Founded in 2001, the shop is passionate about local ingredients. The “must-try” flavor is the Mushroom ice cream, infused with Candy Cap mushrooms, which is not only unique, but strangely delicious — think rich maple syrup. Black Forest, Black Raspberry Chocolate Chunk and The Rockiest Road are also worth a “lick.”

Fallon House Ice Cream Parlor

11175 Washington St., Columbia Info www.columbiagazette.com/ fallonparlor.htm Columbia State Historic Park is known as an 1850s gold mining town, but the local favorite spot is the Fallon House Ice Cream Parlor. The building dates to 1860, but the ice cream parlor (in the location of a former saloon) wasn’t established until 1986. Try the Nutty Minor ice cream special. Enjoy your treat while sitting on the boat dock and taking in the views of the High Sierra. The parlor offers 16 flavors of premium ice cream, sundaes and old-fashioned ice cream sodas with flavored soda water, shakes and malts.

Penny Ice Creamery

913 Cedar St., Santa Cruz 820 41st Ave., Santa Cruz Info http://thepennyicecreamery.com The Penny Ice Creamery makes ice cream completely from scratch and you can watch … if you get there at the right time. With renowned Pastry Chef Kendra Baker, who was the former pastry chef

Ice cream at its purest form, Smitten provides an experience like no other where a “Brrrista” prepares the ice cream in front of you using liquid nitrogen. PHOTOS COURTESY VISIT CALIFORNIA

at the Michelin-starred Manresa, they’ve got something for everyone, including at least two vegan/dairyfree scoop options, a vegan housemade popsicle and a vegan float. Flavors change with the seasons.

Jolly Kone

178 Main St., Bridgeport Info https://jollykone.com You can’t miss Bridgeport’s Jolly Kone, with its festive white-and-red checkered facade and big red sign, on the north side of Highway 395. Famous for its chocolate-dipped cones, it also serves burgers, burritos and fries. There is plenty of outdoor seating shaded by large umbrellas, which makes it the perfect spot to enjoy a cold treat on a hot summer day while soaking in the classic vibes. With roots dating back to the 1860s, this shop is a must when visiting the Eastern Sierra.

Roll Me Some

356 Pollasky Ave., Clovis Info www.rollmesomeice.com Roll Me Some offers a unique and fun experience for ice cream lovers. The shop makes their ice cream with a natural cream base on top of a -32 degrees cold plate, a unique fast-freezing method. Toppings are added directly onto the cream and once it freezes, it is hand rolled. Popular flavors include Himalayan Crunch, The Pollasky, and Nutella and Chill. Roll Me Some was inspired by a popular Thailand ice cream freezing method known as “Thai fried rolled ice cream.”

Doc Burnstein’s Ice Cream Lab

114 W. Branch St., Arroyo Grande 860 Higuera St., San Luis Obispo 725 E. Betteravia Road, Santa Maria Info http://docburnsteins.com Enjoy the fun and wacky flavors made in Doc Burnstein’s lab. Here you can taste classics like the award-winning traditional vanilla along with some crazy creations such as the Elvis Special (banana ice cream with peanut butter), Merlot-Raspberry Truffle (with Central Coast wine), Jack and Coke (with real Jack Daniel’s) or the fan favorite, Motor Oil (dark chocolate and

Kahlua ice cream with fudge swirls).

Smitten Ice Cream

850 S. Sepulveda Blvd., El Segundo Info www.smittenicecream.com When you walk into a Smitten scoop shop, there’s no ice cream at the counter. After you pick your flavor, a “Brrrista” will pour fresh ice cream base and then a chilly fog billows over the counter as liquid nitrogen freezes each scoop to order. This is ice cream in its purest form, a scoop of Smitten’s Salted Caramel ice cream, is made with California cream, milk and butter, cane sugar, a drop of lemon juice and a dash of salt. Try the sweet summer corn flavor, or chocolate ganache with 61% Guittard cacao.

Snowopolis

400 Disney Way, Ste 184, Anaheim Info https://anaheimgardenwalk. com/store/Snowopolis/2138934025/ Snowopolis, a hand-crafted dessert “lounge,” is famous for 24Karat, pure gold ice cream costing $14.95 a scoop, with limited daily supplies. If that’s too rich for you, try one of the massive Snowopolis desserts, like shave ice as big as your head, (120 tropical flavors), or the Tabletop S’mores dessert.

J U LY 21, 2019

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 1 5

T R AV E L Coastal Cone

1583 Spinnaker Drive #104 Ventura Info www.coastalcone.com Coastal Cone offers more than 40 flavors of ice cream and soft serve at its dock-front location in Ventura Harbor. Favorites include organic matcha green tea and pineapple Dole whip. Ice cream is served in cups and homemade waffle cones, and the shop also offers shakes, malts and floats. The Magical Unicorn Poop ice cream is a popular selection.

SomiSomi

Locations: Northridge, Arcadia, Cerritos, Garden Grove, Glendale, Irvine, Los Angeles Koreatown, Torrance and San Diego, among others. Info www.somisomi.com/copy-ofcontact-us Indulge in beautifully crafted Taiyaki soft serve at SomiSomi, which specialize in “ah-boong.” A Japanese-Korean fusion, this goldfish-shaped waffle cone is stuffed with filling and a tantalizing swirl of soft-serve ice cream. From there, choose from fillings like red bean, custard and Nutella, and soft-serve flavors, such as matcha, ube, milk and

Coastal Cone offers more than 40 flavors of ice cream with homemade waffle cones that are great to enjoy while walking up and down the harbor. PHOTO BY MICHELE E. BUTTELMAN / THE SIGNAL

black sesame. This is a national chain with no less than 10 locations in Southern California. Visit the website for details.

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16 · S U N D AYS I G N A L

J U LY 21, 2019

SPORTS

Catching up with the SCV’s Major Leaguers By Haley Sawyer Signal Sports Editor

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n Keston Hiura’s senior year at Valencia in 2014, he hit 14 home runs. In his three years playing at the University of California, Irvine, he hit 22 home runs. So it should come as no surprise that Hiura is already making an impact since being called up to the MLB. Hiura was recalled to the Milwaukee Brewers on June 28 and played in a game against Pittsburgh that night. He was 0-for-4 in the game, but he only picked up momentum from there. He recorded a hit in the following two games, then went 2-for-5 on July 1 against Cincinnati with a home run. The Brewers won the game 8-6, and moved into first place in the National League Central ahead of Chicago. Hiura was drafted ninth overall by the Milwaukee Brewers in 2017, in his junior year at UC Irvine. “He’s the best college hitter in the country. That’s what he showed all through the spring,” said the Brewers’ area scout for Southern California, Wynn Pelzer, after drafting Hiura. He worked his way through the minor league ranks before making his first game appearance with the Brewers on May 14, 2019. He went 2-for-3 in his MLB debut. By the end of his first tenure in Milwaukee, Hiura had hit five home runs. At the end of May, he was hitting .296 with a slugging percentage of .537. On June 1, however, Hiura was designated to the San Antonio Missions, the Brewers’ triple-A affiliate. Milwaukee general manager David Stearns had said he was impressed with Hiura in his first MLB games. “I think we saw a player who can really hit. He has hit throughout his entire life — his amateur career and professional career, and he carried that over to the major league level,” Stearns told the Wisconsin State Journal. “We saw more or less what we expected to see from him.” The stay in San Antonio didn’t last long and he was recalled on June 28. Currently, Hiura owns a .257 bat-

Keston Hiura, a Valencia baseball alum and current member of the Milwaukee Brewers, is helping his team contend for another first-place finish in the National League Central Division. PHOTO BY DAN WATSON / THE SIGNAL

ting average, going 26-for-101 with 12 RBIs and three stolen bases. His home run total has risen to seven.

Valaika homers with Rockies

On June 28, the same day Hiura was recalled from the minor leagues, Hart alumnus Pat Valaika hit a home run for the Colorado Rockies in a 13-9 win over the Dodgers. It was Valaika’s first MLB hit since April 8, and the two-run home run sparked an eight-run fifth inning. The win ended a 12-game losing streak against the Dodgers. “He’s been frustrated,” Rockies manager Bud Black told MLB.com after the game. “But he keeps coming every day with an attitude that it’s going to change, which is awesome. He doesn’t feel sorry for himself. It’s a tough role to be in, but we couldn’t be happier for Pat — teammates, coaching staff — because we know what this guy is all about.”

Bauer picks up seventh win

Hart alumnus Trevor Bauer improved to 8-6 in Cleveland’s 11-1 win over Cincinnati. He gave up one run, four hits and struck out nine in seven innings. This season, Bauer currently has a 3.61 ERA with the Indians. He’s recorded 149 strikeouts in 132 innings pitched.

J U LY 21, 2019

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 1 7

THINGSTODO

Five wonderful waterparks across the state Legoland

By Michele E. Buttelman Signal Staff Writer

s the temperature soars, and the Santa Clarita Valley bakes in the summer sun, it’s nice to know there are numerous community pools and popular area water parks where residents can take a dip and cool off. However, if you’re looking for a change of scenery, California is home to many incredible waterparks. Here are five fabulous waterparks that are worth the effort to visit.

Six Flags Hurricane Harbor

26101 Magic Mountain Parkway, Valencia Hurricane Harbor is a fun water park in the Santa Clarita Valley’s backyard. From “Dive-in Movies” to thrilling water rides that can keep you cool and entertained this summer. Park passes go for as low as $36.99 (parking not included) for a day trip, or memberships that are offered for $7.85 a month. The movies are shown Fridays from 4-6 p.m. in the park’s “Forgotten Sea Wave Pool,” an impressive 480,000 gallons of water for relaxation. From family rides, where parents and kids can ride together, to a play area just for kids to thrill rides for the more intrepid park guests, Hurricane Harbor offers entertainment for all ages. Whether you’re looking for a pool to hang out in or a place for record-setting water slides with 65-foot

Cragger’s Swamp includes water slides, water cannons and jets and one can slide through the head of a massive crocodile. PHOTO COURTESY LEGOLAND

drops, Hurricane Harbor should definitely be on the water parks-tovisit list. Info www.sixflags.com/hurricane harborla or call (661) 255-4100

Great Wolf Lodge Garden Grove

12681 Harbor Blvd., Garden Grove Great Wolf Lodge might not be a familiar name to many in the SCV. Founded in Wisconsin, this nation-wide hotel and water park combo opened its Garden Grove location in 2016. Many families find it a convenient way to have their waterpark and Disneyland, too. The 603-suite hotel and 105,000-square-foot water park is three miles from the Magic Kingdom and offers shuttle service to Disneyland. If you just want to splash in the waterpark, Great Wolf Lodge offers a day pass to the park, no hotel stays required.

With temperatures soaring, waterparks make a great way to keeping one’s kids cool and entertained under the sweltering sun. PHOTO COURTESY GREAT WOLF LODGE.

Passes start at $50 per person. Passes are good starting at 10 a.m. on the day the pass is valid and can stay at the resort until the waterpark closes at 8 p.m. Rent a cabana with seating for six, a tv, towels, security safe, towels and refreshments. The park features a variety of slides, raft rides and tube rides, as well as other fun waterpark features. Info www.greatwolf.com/daypass or 1-888-960-WOLF (9653).

Raging Waters

111 Raging Waters Drive, San Dimas This water park is consistently ranked the number one water park in all of California by folks who make it their business to know such things. The highlight of the water park is the Aqua Rocket, a hydromagnetic slide that sends four people at a time on a roller coaster-like ride with hills and drops at 30 mph. This 60-acre waterpark has been recognized by USA Today as a “Top 10 Water Park” and is home to more than 50 world-class rides, slides, wave pools, obstacle courses and other attractions for all ages. The park was featured in the film “Bill & Ted’s Excellent Adventure” as the fictional Waterloo. It is also known as the most packed water park in the state with 12 high-energy slide attractions. Tickets are available on line with several discount packages available, including the Family Four Pack with Pizza Lunch at $149.96. Info www.ragingwaters.com

1 Legoland Drive, Carlsbad Legoland and Chima Water Park offers Cragger’s Swamp includes three slides and more than 50 interactive water features. This 6,650 squarefoot, hands-on water play area invites guests to ride water slides, blast water cannons and jets and slide through the head of a massive crocodile. However, Cragger’s Swamp is only one of the attractions at this wetand-wild park that also includes Pirate Reef, where you can fire water cannons across the ships' bows as you race down a flume between battling ships. There also is Riptide Racers, Wipeout Lagoon, Orange Rush, Joker Soaker and Splash Out. The only downside to the Legoland Water Park is that it is located inside of Legoland and requires a paid admission to Legoland with a Water Park upgrade. Discount tickets are available online starting at around $120 for Legoland and Legoland Water Park. Info www.legoland.com/california/

Knott’s Soak City

8039 Beach Blvd, Buena Park Knott’s Soak City is a separately gated, 15-acre water park next to the Knott's Berry Farm theme park. In 2017, Orange County's largest water park expanded two acres to offer even more fun in the sun with seven new slides. The park now boasts a total of 22 speed, tube and body slides plus the 750,000-gallon Tidal Wave Bay wave pool; the one-third-mile-long Sunset Lazy River; and the three-story Beach House, featuring 200 water guns, nozzles, sprayers and other interactive surprises. The water park also features Gremmie Lagoon, a hands-on water playground for younger kids and families. Soak City recently added the seven-story plunge Shore Break to Gremmie Lagoon. Discount tickets to Soak City are available online starting at $44 per person. Info www.knotts.com/play/soakcity

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J U LY 21, 2019

F R O M T H E C I T Y M AY O R

Prevent wildfires — all it takes is a spark By Mayor Marsha McLean

anta Clarita in the summertime is a wonderful place to be. Drive around town and you’ll spot children playing in our well-maintained parks and parents pushing strollers along paseos. Summer is when you can get a true

sense of the strong family-oriented community that makes Santa Clarita so unique and charming. However, summer in Santa Clarita, and across most of Southern California, is also notorious for something a little less appealing — heat. The summer months of June through September bring high temperatures that can create perfect conditions for wildfires. Unfortunately, our city is no strang-

Join Us, Saturday, July 13, for the Aquarium of the Pacific's "Aquarium on Wheels" Events and Displays 12:00 noon-3:00 PM Join Your neighbors and Friends for Valencia Marketplace's Summer Sunset Concerts 2019 ALL CONCERTS ARE FRIDAY EVENINGS 6:00-8:00 PM

JULY 12 - THE RED ELVISES - Rock with a Russian Twist JULY 19- THE HODADS- Favorite SoCal Summer Sounds JULY 26- THE YACHT GROOVE- Hits of the 70s and 80s AUGUST 2 - SGT. PEPPER - A Tribute to the Beatles AUGUST 9 - FORT WORTH WEST - Countery Classics AUGUST 16 - RIDE THE TIDE - Pop and Rock Favorites WWW.VALENCIAMARKETPLACE.COM • LIKE US ON FACEBOOK ON THE OLD ROAD BETWEEN PICO/LYONS AND MCBEAN PARKWAY Valencia Marketplace invites you to visit their wide variety of shops and restaurants. See store list on reverse side of postcard

Open Evenings & Weekends

er to devastating fires. We have experienced multiple fires each and every year, with catastrophic fires, like the Sand Fire, destroying homes and even taking lives. It takes just one spark to erupt into a multi-acre blaze when coupled with conditions such as dry vegetation and hot, strong winds. Since fire season is year-round in Santa Clarita, please remember these important tips to keep you and your family fire safe this summer. Nearly 85% of wildland fires in the United States are caused by humans. All it takes is a spark, and that could come from a discarded cigarette, kids playing with matches, a campfire, fireworks, lawn equipment or a car accident. Please be especially alert and aware during these summer months and take extra caution. Plus, all fireworks, even those labeled “safe or sane” are illegal in Santa Clarita. Fires spread quickly through flying embers. An ember can destroy a home up to a mile away. Luckily,

there are steps you can take to make your home fire resistant and to build a defensible space. To create a defensible space, remove all dead or dying vegetation that could easily catch fire from your home — from gutters, around and under decks, and near windows. Whenever possible, use ignition-resistant materials when building structures such as roofs, walls, decks and fences. Embers like to sneak into vents and windows, so consider covering vents with metal mesh or baffles and installing dual-paned windows. With so much at stake, we, as citizens, must do everything we can to prevent fires to keep our family, neighbors and community safe. To learn more safety tips, please visit ReadyforWildfire.org. Mayor Marsha McLean is a member of the Santa Clarita City Council and can be reached at mmclean@santaclarita.com. The views expressed in her column are those of the city and do not necessarily reflect those of The Signal.

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J U LY 21, 2019

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 1 9 Lucille’s Bar-B-Que 24201 West Valencia Blvd, Valencia (661) 255-1227

Halfway House 15564 W. Sierra Highway, Saugus (661) 251-0102

Q&Q Hawaiian BBQ 27530 Newhall Ranch Road #101, Santa Clarita (661) 383-9098

Mama’s Table 23340 Cinema Dr, Santa Clarita (661) 284-5988

Rattler’s BBQ 26495 Golden Valley Road, Canyon Country (661) 251-4195

Mimi’s Cafe 24201 Magic Mountain Parkway, Valencia (661) 255-5520

Smokehouse on Main 24255 Main St, Old Town Newhall (661) 888-4585

AMERICAN Backwoods Inn 17846 W. Sierra Highway, Canyon Country (661) 252-5522 The Backyard Grub n’ Brews 26509 Golden Valley Road, Santa Clarita (661) 286-1165 Bergie’s 16404 Delone Street, Canyon Country (661)251-3133 Black Angus 27007 McBean Parkway, Valencia (661) 288-2000 Black Bear Diner 23626 Valencia Blvd, Valencia (661) 799-4820 The Cheesecake Factory 24250 Town Center Dr #110, Valencia, CA 91355 (661) 286-1232 Claim Jumper 25740 The Old Road, Valencia (661) 254-2628 Crazy Otto’s Diner 25373 Wayne Mills Place, Valencia (661) 291-1733 The Daily Harvest Cafe & Juicery 22722 Lyons Ave #6, Newhall (661) 383-9387 Iconic Eats 23460 Cinema Dr, Valencia (661) 481-9404 Islands 24180 Valencia Blvd, Valencia (661) 284-5903 Lazy Dog Cafe 24201 Valencia Blvd., Valencia (661) 253-9996 Mama’s Table 23340 Cinema Dr, Santa Clarita (661) 284-5988 Marston’s Restaurant 24011 Newhall Ranch Road, Valencia (661) 253-9910

Oggi’s Pizza & Brewing Co 18810 Soledad Canyon Rd, Canyon Country (661) 252-7883 Red Robin 27063 McBean Parkway, Valencia (661) 260-2411 Route 66 Classic Grill 18730 Soledad Canyon Rd, Canyon Country (661) 298-1494 Saddle Ranch Chop House 24201 Valencia Blvd., Valencia (661) 383-0173 Salt Creek Grille 24415 Town Center Drive, Valencia (661) 222-9999

Wood Ranch Bar-B-Que & Grill 25580 The Old Road, Stevenson Ranch (661) 222-9494

BREAKFAST & BRUNCH Casa Canela 27647 Bouquet Canyon Road, Santa Clarita (661) 523-7282 Crazy Otto’s Diner 25373 Wayne Mills Place, Valencia (661) 291-1733

Marston’s Restaurant 24011 Newhall Ranch Road, Valencia (661) 253-9910

The Old Town Junction 24257 Main Street, Newhall (661) 702-4888 Saugus Cafe 25861 Railroad Avenue, Saugus (661) 259-7886 Way Station Coffee Shop 24377 Main Street, Newhall (661) 255-0222

BREWERIES BJ’s Restaurant 24320 Town Center Drive, Valencia (661) 288-1299

Egg Plantation 24415 Walnut Street, Newhall (661) 255-8222 Eggs N Things 27560 Newhall Ranch Road, Valencia (661) 702-8664

Oggi’s Pizza & Brewing Co. 18810 Soledad Canyon Road, Canyon Country (661) 252-7883 See DINING GUIDE, next page

Souplantation 24303 Town Center Drive, Valencia (661) 286-1260 Stonefire Grill 23300 Cinema Drive, Valencia (661)799-8282 The Old Town Junction 24275 Main Street Newhall (661) 702-4888 The Social 23329 Lyons Ave, Ste A, Valencia (661) 799-9155 Thelma’s Cafe 22876 Copperhill Drive, Saugus (661) 263-8283 Wing Stop 18547 Soledad Canyon Road, Canyon Country (661) 251-9700 Wood Ranch Bar-B-Que & Grill 25580 The Old Road, Stevenson Ranch (661) 222-9494

BBQ Black Bear Diner 23626 Valencia Blvd, Valencia (661) 799-4820

Nealie’s Skillet 25858 Tournament Road, Valencia (661) 678-0031

Dickeys Barbecue Pit 18742 Soledad Canyon Road, Santa Clarita (661) 251-0840

Newhall Refinery 24258 Main St, Newhall (661) 388-4477

L&L Hawaiian BBQ 18727 Via Princessa, Canyon Country (661) 251-8333

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FOR RESERVATIONS: 661-284-6615 OPEN: 11am Tues-Fri, 10am Sat, 9am Sun

20 · S U N D AYS I G N A L

J U LY 21, 2019

R E S TA U R A N T R E V I E W

Savory Sonoran and steakhouse fare at El Trocadero n the mood for Mexican cuisine? Or maybe some meat and seafood? Can’t decide? Well, you’re in luck, because El Trocadero Mesquite Grill & Cantina has it all. The smell of tantalizing mesquite wafting in the air is the first sign that you’re in for a treat here. Then there’s the friendly service, a hallmark of the restaurant’s more than 20-year history at its Newhall location. You’ll be greeted with a smile by Raul Bojorquez , who founded the restaurant in 1998, or his granddaughter Anali Carrillo, who’s been helping out since she was just 4 years old. Now Carrillo is the general manager and adding some fresh new touches to the menu to attract foodies to the Old Town Newhall scene, while keeping the classics for long-time patrons who are practically family. That includes refreshing, potent punchbowl drinks laced with rum, vodka, tequila and a myriad of fresh fruit juices. Each drink comes to the table in a rustic earthenware bowl and two extra-long straws. “It requires two people, at least, because there’s two to five cocktails in there,” Carrillo said. “It’s a lot of fun. People really love it.” There’s also a new “Taste of Sonora” sampler ($17) that offers a bevy of mighty fine bites: molten, creamy

queso fundido flecked with bits of savory homemade chorizo; fork-tender pork swimming in a zesty chile verde sauce; succulent cubes of beef in a rich yet vibrant Colorado-style sauce; and a mole that combines moist chunks of dark-meat chicken with just the right notes of spice and sweet. Scoop it all up with the soft yet toasty tortillas imported from Sonora. Anything ordered “Straight Off the Mesquite Grill” is going to be a winner for carnivores. The rib-eye is a thick slab of perfectly grilled beef, marbled with luscious fat that’s crispy on the edges. Served with a mix of fresh veggies, everything is infused with smoky goodness. “People ask all the time how we season the meat, but it’s just the grill and salt and the quality of the meat. The mesquite imparts the amazing flavor,” Carrillo said. The tampiquera ($23) features a flavorful skirt steak, plus some Mexican classics with the El Trocadero twist, such a chile relleno that’s first grilled on the mesquite, then stuffed with queso and layered with a tasty tomato and chile-tinged enchilada sauce. (That effort pays off — this is the best chile relleno I’ve ever had). The food at El Trocadero is lighter than you may find at most Mexican restaurants, due to the region it hails from. “Sonoran food is not too heavy on the cream or cheese,” Carrillo noted. There’s so much good stuff here — several types of burritos (from $9 to

$11, plus $1 to $2 more for cheese, guacamole and / or “wet” style options), and combinations with chile rellenos, enchiladas, gorditas, tamales, tacos, mole, and more, all served with stellar rice and beans, starting at just $8. Seafood lovers can enjoy a parrillada ($32) overflowing with mahi mahi, shrimp and scallops on a skillet with rice, beans, tortillas and soup or salad. Solo options include mahi mahi ($18), salmon ($19), shrimp ($27) or scallops ($31, that can be cooked creamy ala diabla, breaded, butter and garlic, or mesquite grilled and served with vegetables, beans, rice or baked potato, tortillas, soup and salad. Lighter appetites can be satiated with a variety of soups and salads ($4 to $14). In the evening, the patio becomes

a destination that’s prime for people watching. Inside, there’s a festive vibe, thanks to the open-air space and colorful Mexican décor. So whether you’re on a date, celebrating a milestone, or enjoying a margarita made with fresh lime juice at the convivial bar, the team at El Trocadero strives to make your experience special.

DINING GUIDE

Corner Bakery 24290 Valencia Blvd, Valencia (661) 259-2813

The Habit 25948 N. McBean Parkway, Valencia (661) 291-1575

Rustic Burger 24025 Newhall Ranch Road, Valencia (661) 254-1300

Cousins Burgers 19318 Soledad Canyon Road, Canyon Country (661) 298-4200

Italia Panetteria & Deli 27674 Newhall Ranch Road, Valencia (661) 294-9069

Rustic Eatery 25343 Wayne Mills Place, Valencia (661) 254-8100

Jimmy Dean’s 22941 Lyons Ave, Newhall (661) 255-6315

Submarina California Subs 26517 Carl Boyer Drive, Canyon Country (661) 259-4782

JJ’s Bar and Grill 25848 Tournament Road, Valencia (661) 799-7557

Tiny’s Submarine Sandwiches 27251 Camp Plenty Rd, Canyon Country (661) 251-5885

By Michelle Sathe Signal Staff Writer

Continued from previous page

BREWERIES

Pocock Brewing Company 24907 Avenue Tibbits, Valencia (661) 775-4899 Wolf Creek Restaurant & Brewing Co. 27746 N. McBean Parkway, Valencia (661) 263-9653

BURGERS/SANDWICHES

Bricks 23820 Lyons Ave, Newhall (661) 286-1091 Brother’s Burgers 20655 Soledad Canyon (661) 299-9278

Burgerim 23740 Lyons Ave, Santa Clarita (661) 670-8939

Everest Burgers 18645 Soledad Canyon Road Santa Clarita, CA 91351 (661) 252-3412 Final Score 23754 Lyons Ave, Santa Clarita (661) 254-6557 Firehouse Subs 23630 Valencia Blvd. Valencia (661) 255-3473 Five Guys 24201 W, Valencia Blvd #3672, Valencia (661) 255-0981

From left: Raul Bojorquez , Anali Carrillo and Michael Alvarez with some of the many delicious dishes offered at El Trocadero Mesquite Grill & Cantina in Old Town Newhall. PHOTO BY MICHELLE SATHE / THE SIGNAL

Panini Palace 23120 Lyons Ave, Santa Clarita (661) 678-0552

El Trocadero Mesquite Grill & Cantina is located at 24274 Main Street, Newhall. Open Tuesday through Thursday 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., Friday 11 a.m. to 10:30 p.m., Saturday 10 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. and Sunday 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Breakfast is served on Saturday and Sunday. Full bar. For more information, visit www.eltrocaderosteakhouse.com or call (661) 284-6615.

CHINESE

Pita Pit 28253 Newhall Ranch Road (661) 702-9977

China Express 19417 Soledad Canyon Road, Canyon Country (661) 251-8783

Route 66 Classic Grill 18730 Soledad Canyon Road, Canyon Country (661) 298-1494

Golden Wok Restaurant 16668 Soledad Canyon Road, Canyon Country (661) 424-0888

J U LY 21, 2019

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 2 1

DININGGUIDE Grand Panda 23802 Lyons Avenue, Newhall (661) 253-1898 27924 Seco Canyon Road, Saugus (661) 297-9868 Mandarin Wong Chinese Restaurant 23758 Lyons Avenue, Newhall (661) 259-5823 Moon Wok 23460 Cinema Drive Suite H, Valencia (661) 288-1898 Pick Up Stix 25960 The Old Road, Stevenson Ranch (661) 288-2090 WaBa Grill 19120 Soledad Canyon Road, Canyon Country (661) 367-7297 31739 Castaic Road, Castaic (661) 295 9222 Wok’s Cookin’ Chinese Restaurant 31565 Castaic Road, Castaic (661) 257-2890

CUBAN Hidden Havana Cuban Cafe 23548 Lyons Avenue, Newhall (661) 254-4460

DELICATESSEN Bob’s Country Meats 19012 Soledad Canyon Road, Canyon Country (661) 251-5995 Cathy’s Delicatessen 23120 W. Lyons Avenue, Newhall (661) 288-2217 Italia Panetteria & Deli 27674 Newhall Ranch Road, Valencia (661) 294-9069 Maria’s Italian-American Deli 22620 W. Lyons Avenue, Newhall (661) 259-6261 Mariciano’s Chicago Style Deli 18635 Soledad Canyon Road (661) 299-1100 The Sandwich Shop 25530 W. Avenue Stanford, Valencia (661) 257-4811

FRENCH Le Chene French Cuisine 12625 Sierra Highway, Agua Dulce (661) 251-4315

GREEK

Gyromania 20655 Soledad Canyon Rd, Santa Clarita (661) 252-4976

INDIAN An Indian Affaire 23360 W. Valencia Blvd, Valencia (661) 288-1200 Karma Restaurant, Bar & Lounge 23460 Cinema Drive, Valencia (661) 288-0080

Royal Tandoor 26532 Bouquet Canyon Road, Santa Clarita (661) 263-7100

ITALIAN Bella Cucina Ristorante Italiano 27911 Seco Canyon Rd, Saugus (661) 263-1414 Buca di Beppo 26940 Theater Drive, Valencia (661) 253-1900 Italia Panetteria & Deli 27674 Newhall Ranch Road, Valencia (661) 294-9069 Maria’s Italian-American Deli 22620 Lyons Ave, Newhall (661) 259-6261 Numero Uno Pizza 26111 Bouquet Canyon Road, Santa Clarita (661) 252-5011 Olive Garden 27003 McBean Parkway, Valencia (661) 799-8161 Piccola Trattoria 18302 Sierra Highway, Canyon Country (661) 299-6952 Presto Pasta 24375 Magic Mountain Pkwy, Valencia (661) 284-7737 Spumoni Restaurant 24917 W. Pico Canyon Road, Stevenson Ranch (661) 799-0360

JAPANESE & SUSHI

Achita Sushi 22913 Soledad Canyon Road, Santa Clarita (661) 476-5522 Asako Sushi 27540 Sierra Hwy, Canyon Country (661) 251-6010 Bonsai Garden 19358 Soledad Canyon Road, Canyon Country (661) 251-9008 Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ Dining 27025 McBean Pkwy, Valencia (661) 254-2355 Hibiki Restaurant 27625 Shangri La Dr., Canyon Country (661) 298-0273 I Love Sushi 26526 Bouquet Canyon Rd, Santa Clarita 661-673-5200

Sushi Song Japanese Restaurant 22896 Copper Hill Dr, Santa Clarita (661) 297-5659

KOREAN & MONGOLIAN

Charcoal Korean BBQ Restaurant 19158 Soledad Canyon Road, Canyon Country (661) 251-9292 Genghis Khan 24506 W. Lyons Avenue, Newhall (661) 254-0351 Gogi House 26524 Bouquet Canyon Road, Saugus (661) 263-0048 Kogiya 2 Korean BBQ 23410 Lyons Ave, Santa Clarita (661) 678-0999 Lee’s Korean BBQ & Tofu House 23360 West Valencia Blvd, Valencia (661) 254-2307 Sam’s Flaming Grill 24802 Orchard Village, Santa Clarita (661) 222-9060 19433 Soledad Canyon Rd, Santa Clarita (661) 298-0115 25347 Wayne Mills Pl, Valencia (661) 254-2154 23874 Copper Hill Dr, Valencia (661) 294-1100 ZingGa Grill 26910 Sierra Hwy, Santa Clarita (661) 250-7592

MEDITERRANEAN Cafe O 20655 Soledad Canyon Rd, Cyn Country (661) 424-0401 Flame & Skewers 25870 McBean Parkway, Valencia (661) 799-7538 Grill Kabob 27653 Bouquet Canyon Road, Saugus (661) 263-7445 Kebab House 24201 Valencia Blvd, Valencia (661) 799-5844 Manoushee Mediterranean Restaurant 27131 Sierra Hwy, Canyon Country (661) 251-6666 Olive Terrace Cafe 28261 Newhall Ranch Road, Valencia (661) 257-7860 Zankou Chicken 24463 Magic Mountain Pkwy, Valencia (661) 705-7265

La Cocina Bar & Grill 28022 Seco Canyon Road, Saugus (661) 297-4546 La Charrita Restaurant 24225 Main St, Newhall (661) 288-1204 Las Rocas Mexican Grill 27923 Sloan Canyon Road Castaic, CA 91384 (661) 257-6905 Medrano’s Mexican Restaurant 19319 Soledad Canyon Road, Santa Clarita (661) 367-4945 Rosarito Grill 19425 Soledad Canyon Road, Canyon Country (661) 251-2732

PERSIAN

Persia Lounge & Restaurant 24328 Main Street, Newhall (661) 259-4100

PIZZA Pizza Di Marco 27674 Newhall Ranch Rd, Valencia 661-295-8769 Tomato Joes Pizza & Taps 19167 Golden Valley Road, Santa Clarita (661) 250-7550 Tomato Joes Pizza Express 27732 McBean Pkwy. Valencia (661) 263-8646 Toppers Pizza 23710 Valencia Blvd, Santa Clarita (805) 385-4444

POLISH

Pierogi Spot 26511 Golden Valley Road, Santa Clarita (661) 254-4850

THAI Life Thai Fusion 22911 Soledad Canyon Road, Canyon Country (661) 259-9226 Original Thai BBQ Restaurant 27530 Newhall Ranch Road, Valencia (661) 257-6421

FAST DELIVERY At Our Valencia LOCATION ONLY pizzadimarco.com

MEXICAN

My Hot Pot 26238 Bouquet Canyon Road, Santa Clarita (661) 288-1998

Azul Tequila 25387 Wayne Mills Place, Valencia (661) 254-5500

Shogun Sushi Japanese Restaurant 26807 Seco Canyon Rd, Santa Clarita (661) 513-0015

Casa Pasilla 27674 Newhall Ranch Road, Valencia (661) 295-1989

Sushi 661 26850 Sierra Hwy, Santa Clarita (661) 252-9831

El Trocadero Mesquite Grill & Cantina 24274 Main Street, Newhall (661) 284-6615

Family Owned Since 1985

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22 · S U N D AYS I G N A L

J U LY 21, 2019

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

Hinder brings hard rock to Canyon Santa Clarita By Perry Smith Sunday Signal Editor

ans of the multiplatinum-selling Hinder will want to make their way to Canyon Santa Clarita on Sunday, July 28. Formed in Oklahoma in 2001, the band’s hard-rocking sound has garnered millions of fans for group. The group’s 2005 debut album

earned a top-10 spot on the Billboard 200 charts, with “Get Stone,” the band’s first radio single, and “Lips of an Angel,” both landing prominently on the charts for singles The follow-up album in 2008, “Take it to the Limit,” peaked at No. 4 on the Billboard charts, with hits like “Use Me.” The group has played almost every type of venue from smaller clubs to arenas, and now fans have a chance to

hear them rock in their own backyard. The Canyon is the perfect venue to enjy their enormous sound. The band’s most recent efforts, a sixth studio album called, “The Reign,” which was a follow-up to the band’s acoustic effort, “Stripped,” from 2016, have led to widespread praise for the group’s current lineup: Marshal Dutton on vocals; Joe ‘Blower’ Garvey and Mark King on guitars;

Mike Rodden on bass; and Cody Hanson on drums. Opening up for the band is Raising the Flame and Bravo Delta. Find the Canyon Santa Clarita on the ground floor of the Westfield Valencia Town Center. Get tickets at the box office 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday-Saturday, by phone at 888-645-5006, or via TicketMaster.com. For more info, visit WheremusicmeetstheSoul.com.

J U LY 21, 2019

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 2 3

‘Maiden’ and ‘Spider-Man: Far From Home’

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

By Dianne White Crawford Signal Contributing Writer

“Maiden”

Limited Release Thanks to Ron Shelton’s “Bull Durham” (1988), a favorite sports phrase emerged: “Announcing one’s presence with authority.” Perhaps no better phrase exists to describe Tracy Edwards at the 1989 Whitbread Round the World Race. The 24-yearold Edwards was the skipper-navigator of the first all-women crew to compete in the race … a grueling every-three-years event where yachts are sailed around the world in multiple stages. Director Alex Holmes takes us back to Edwards’ childhood. We see home movies, interviews with friends and hear stories to prove she wasn’t the easiest child to raise. Maybe too much time is devoted to this section, but it picks up when we get to adult; Edward’s story about how she was first attracted to the race and got involved as a cook on one of the vessels. She talks about being treated like a servant by the crew, and how that inspired her idea to assemble an all-women crew and race their own boat. The interviews include other skippers (men, of course), the journalists who covered the race (men, of course), and the crew members from the Maiden. We see them today, and have the “then” photos and clips to gain an appreciation of the 30 years that have passed. We hear that “being girls is like being disabled in the

Left: Tom Holland and Zendaya bring an “awkward authenticity” as Peter Parker and MJ in “Spider-Man: Far from Home.” Below: Jake Gyllenhaal as the new mysterious “hero” Quentin Beck. COURTESY IMDB

sailing world.” and one can sense the attitude (even today) of the competitors. The race covers 33,000 nautical miles, but Edwards’ historic voyage started long before they set sail. She speaks to the difficulty of fundraising — two years of almost no money, and how Jordan’s King Hussein not only inspired her, but also assisted. A second-hand boat at a reduced cost put the crew to work on rehabilitation, and this “sweat equity” likely made them more determined than ever. “The probability of not making it is high.” Self-doubt and insecurities bubbled up. Once the race got underway, the women were a team. Terrific archival footage puts us right there with the crew — massive waves, ice on the sails, and incredible cold and wind. These obstacles from nature care not if the crew is man or woman. Edwards’ leadership is on full display during the various legs of the race. It’s clear by the end that they have gained the respect of those who doubted them, and the warm reception proves how strong their fan base was. It’s certainly not the first sports movie featuring underdogs. In fact, the Jamaican bobsled team is a comparison that comes to mind as a group of dedicated competitors given little chance to succeed by those “in the know.” Here’s hoping the inevitable Hollywood dramatization never occurs, as no actor could tell it better than those who performed the work and raced the race.

“Spider-Man: Far From Home”

General Release Wow! This film far exceeded my expectations, in part because it exceeded “Spider-Man: Homecoming.” Admittedly, I had some difficulty getting on-board with that movie, mainly because it felt as if it lacked the weight of consequences, which is a very non-traditional approach for the Spider-Man character. “Far From Home” is a sequel that changes this, managing to up-the-stakes in every way, and delivering a classic Spidey story in the process. After the events of “Avengers: Endgame,” Peter Parker is left dealing with the loss of his mentor, Tony Stark, and trying to figure it out on his own in a radically changed world. He’s ready to temporarily put all of that aside, however, and just enjoy his school trip to Europe. Of course, things don’t work out in his favor, as trouble manages to find him even across the pond. I found that both the physical and metaphorical idea of being “far from home” did wonders for Peter’s character and for the story. Where he feels trapped in the shadow of Iron Man in his first solo outing, here Peter actively wrestles with that legacy, and the end result is that it feels like he comes into

his own as a man and as a hero. The movie overall is about as thematically deep as you might expect — which is to say, not very — but the character work is really solid, and a marked improvement over the first film. The other clear improvement in this sequel are the action sequences. Director Jon Watts has clearly gained more confidence in his abilities since “Homecoming.” The action sequences are frenetic, and they somehow manage to be simultaneously very busy but also easy to follow. In addition, the nature of the abilities of newcomer Quentin Beck (played by Jake Gyllenhaal) leads to some real visual spectacle that was a treat to watch. In addition to those improvements, every other aspect that worked about “Homecoming” is amplified. The entire cast has great chemistry together. They create a very fun atmosphere throughout, but it’s Peter’s and MJ’s relationship in particular that becomes a bigger focus. Tom Holland and Zendaya have excellent chemistry together, but also bring an awkward authenticity that feels genuinely adolescent, and as such, is easy to get behind. Overall, this is a perfect popcorn flick. Having improved on every element of its predecessor, this is a great cinematic outing for the family.

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J U LY 21, 2019

K I D S & FA M I LY

Celebrate Summer around the Santa Clarita Valley By Michele E. Buttelman Signal Staff Writer

ummertime in the Santa Clarita Valley is the time to get out and enjoy family activities. Here’s a few ideas of fun outings to put on your family activity calendar. Rip out this calendar and post on your refrigerator!

Fridays

Valencia Jazz & Blues Summer Concert Series Westfield Valencia Town Center, 24201 West Valencia Blvd, Valencia If you haven’t attended this annual dance party in the street, you’ve got a couple more chances to enjoy jazz and blues in Valencia. For the 20th year, live jazz and blues bands fill Town Center Drive in Valencia on Friday evenings, 7-9:30 p.m. through Aug. 2. It’s a family friendly, quaint street party setting, offering activities for adults and children. Food and beverages, including wine and beer for the adults. Free. July 26: Kelly’s Lot Aug. 2: Teresa James & the Rhythm Tramps Info https://valenciajazzandblues. com

July 27 Queen Nation (Queen Tribute Band) Aug. 3 Mirage (Fleetwood Mac Tribute Band Aug. 10 Grateful Shred (Grateful Dead Tribute Band) Aug. 17 The Replicas (Party Band). They have 500+ songs in their repertoire, from Frank Sinatra to the Foo Fighters and everything in between. Get ready to dance. Aug. 24 Erotic City (Prince Tribute Band) Info https://calendar.santa-clarita. com/concerts_in_the_park

Sundays Saturdays and Sundays

Kayak Rentals Castaic Lake State Recreation Area, 32132 Castaic Lake Drive, Castaic Paddle your way around Castaic Lake in a rented kayak. See nature up-close and personal. Rentals are available weekends from noon to 4 p.m. Info http://parks.lacounty.gov/ castaic-lake-state-recreation-area

Saturdays

Concerts in the Park 27150 Bouquet Canyon Road, Saugus One of the most popular family-friendly events held in the SCV. 7 p.m. Bring a lawn chair or blanket. The annual Concerts in the Park line up for the remainder of summer includes:

San Andreas Fault Tours Devil’s Punchbowl Park, 28000 Devil’s Punchbowl Road, Valyermo 1 p.m. weekly. After all the recent shaking, why not pay a visit to the San Andreas Fault and learn more about the fractured ground beneath our feet? Free tours. Info http://parks.lacounty.gov/ devils-punchbowl-natural-area-andnature-center/#

Tuesdays

Community Drum Circle Remo Music Center, 28101 Industry Drive, Valencia 7:30 p.m. Free community drum circle for all ages. The Community Drumming Experience is an hour of fun, entry-level experiential music making with drums and percussion that is accessible to anyone who wants to participate. It is designed

Thousands attend as Wannabe: A Tribute to Spice Girls perform on stage at the first Concerts in the Park at Central Park in Saugus. PHOTOS BY DAN WATSON / THE SIGNAL

to be a family-friendly environment in which a facilitator creates fun and exciting rhythmic interplay between participants with an emphasis on dynamics, listening skills and rhythmic conversation. All levels of ability are welcome, and no prior musical experience is necessary. Drums and percussion instruments provided at no extra cost and reservations are not required. Info www.facebook.com/ events/302675810411528/

July 20-Aug. 11

“Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat” Santa Clarita Performing Arts Center at College of the Canyons, 26455 Rockwell Canyon Road, Valencia The Andrew Lloyd Webber musical about Joseph, his father Jacob, 11 brothers and the coat of many colors, told entirely through song. Canyon Theatre Guild production. Tickets: $10-$29. Info www.canyontheatre.org/joseph

Fridays, July 26, Aug. 16, Aug. 30

William S. Hart Park Summer Movies in the Park William S. Hart Park 24151 Newhall Ave., Newhall Free family-friendly movies at the Hart Picnic Grounds area. Admission is free. Starting at dusk.

July 26 “Spiderman Into the Spider Verse” Aug. 16 “Mary Poppins Returns” Aug. 30 “Captain Marvel” Info http://friendsofhartpark.org

Saturday, July 27

Star Party Vasquez Rocks, 10700 W Escondido Canyon Road, Agua Dulce 7 p.m. The Local Group Astronomy Club will host a free, public Star Party. You do not need a telescope. The club will have lots of telescopes set up viewing planets, nebulae, star clusters and distant galaxies. Sundown is at 8 p.m. A telescope workshop will be held at 4 p.m. Bring out that old telescope you have in the closet, or that new one you just purchased, and they will help you get it up and running. Make sure to bring all the parts and necessary batteries. Enter the park via the main gate, turn left at the ranger station and continue to the end of the road past the large rocks. Info http://www.lgscv.org For more information about events around the SCV, review to our calendar inside the magazine and our online event calendar at https://signalscv. com/calendar/.

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S U N D AYS I G N A L · 2 5

K I D S & FA M I LY

Home safe home —

Protect your children with these 5 easy tips

e all like to think of our homes as secure havens where our families can retreat from the world in peace and comfort. While most of us do everything we can to protect our children from harm, records show that in the U.S. some 2,000 children aged 14 and younger succumb to preventable injuries in the home caused by burns, suffocation, drowning, firearms, falls, choking or poisoning. That’s why it’s important to stay vigilant when checking for potential safety hazards in, and around, our places of residence. Take the time to evaluate whether your home is as protected as it can possibly be from preventable accidents. Consider using the following checklist as you take a close look at potential safety hazards in your home.

What areas could make your child trip or fall?

Staircases and other drop-offs should be closed off to small children through well-designed safety gates. Handrails, flooring and floor coverings should be firmly affixed, and indoor and outdoor stairs and walk-

carbon monoxide detectors are placed at recommended intervals throughout your home, then check their batteries on a regular schedule. And, families should conduct fire drills twice annually to ensure everyone knows what to do in the event of emergency.

Are you aware of drowning hazards? ways should all be well-lit and free of clutter. Non-slip flooring and support bars should also be added to showers.

Could your window coverings be a safety hazard?

Corded window coverings can pose a threat to safety, since young children can easily become entangled in the pull cords and inner cords. Your best alternative? For homes with young children, only use cordless window covering products, or those with inaccessible cords. Look for the Best for Kids™ label that shows they’ve been third-party tested for optimal safety around young children. The improved coverings are now available in a range of colors and styles designed to enhance any room

in your home. Move cribs, beds, toys and furniture away from windows where children may be tempted to play with coverings, advises the Window Covering Safety Council.

Is poisoning a possibility?

Keep prescription and over-thecounter medicines, as well as potentially harmful household products, out of reach of children through cabinet locks and other preventative measures. Be cognizant of advisable limits on pain relief medications, and stay aware of which medicines (and for adults, alcoholic drinks) should never be mixed.

Are you protected against fires and carbon monoxide?

Ensure working smoke alarms and

It seems hard to believe, but young children are capable of drowning in just an inch or two of water. That means any form of standing water, including bathtubs, pools, water features and fountains, can be a threat. Pools should be protected with fences of at least 4 feet in height that include self-closing, self-latching gates. As a rule of thumb, children should remain within your grabbing distance if they’re in a bath or otherwise around standing water. Being aware of potential safety hazards in the home, both obvious and hidden, is important to protecting your family from harm. Take time today to address any in-home elements that could possibly pose a threat. — Brandpoint

Donna’s Day: Creative Family Fun

No-Cook Gazpacho is taste of Spain By Donna Erickson Signal Contributing Writer

tir up a no-cook meal for your family on a hot summer day. Just spin the globe until your finger lands on Spain, and think gazpacho! The season’s freshest tomatoes, cukes, peppers and onions come together in this satisfying and zesty cold Spanish soup. Let your kids harvest some of the ingredients from your family garden, or choose them in peak condition at a farmers market. Teach your schoolage children basic cutting and chopping techniques. They’ll have lots of practice with this recipe! If you don’t mind turning on your oven for a few minutes, top off the soup with whimsical kid-made croutons in fun shapes. Serve it in the fanciest bowl

that you use for special occasions. For 4-6 servings, here’s what you’ll need:

Gazpacho

2 cups seeded, finely diced plum tomatoes 1 cup cored, seeded, finely diced yellow bell pepper 1/2 cup peeled, seeded, finely diced cucumbers 1/4 to 1/2 cup finely diced celer 1/4 cup minced carrots 1/4 cup minced celery leaves 1/4 cup minced yellow onion 2 cups tomato vegetable juice (such as V8) 1/2 cup clam juice (optional) 2 tablespoons minced chives 2 tablespoons olive oil 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar Juice of one lemon Salt and pepper to taste

Let your child mix all ingredients together in a large bowl. Refrigerate for at least two hours to chill and enhance the flavor. Scoop into a serving bowl and top with shaped croutons.

Shaped Croutons

1 loaf French bread sliced lengthwise with crust removed 3 tablespoons butter or olive oil 1 garlic clove, pressed 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese (optional) Salt and pepper to taste

Make shapes from bread with favorite mini cookie cutters. Combine melted butter or olive oil with garlic and salt and pepper. Brush on top of cutouts. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese (optional). Bake in 350 F oven for 10 minutes. Tip Put freezer-safe serving bowls

for gazpacho in freezer before serving. Donna Erickson’s award-winning series “Donna’s Day” is airing on public television nationwide. To find more of her creative family recipes and activities, visit www.donnasday.com and link to the NEW Donna’s Day Facebook fan page. Her latest book is “Donna Erickson’s Fabulous Funstuff for Families.” ©2019 Donna Erickson Distributed by King Features Synd.

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J U LY 21, 2019

THIS WEEK’S CALENDAR

= Family Friendly Event

Avenues Supported Living Services will be selling snow-cones, popcorn, candy and Mondays, 10 a.m. Toddler StoSunday, July 21, 2-3 p.m. It’s time drinks. Bring your chairs, blankets, towels, and rytime at the Children’s Stage, with to relive another “cool” travel adveneverything you need to be comfortable. William various children’s books read to toddlers ture with Placerita Canyon Nature Center docent S. Hart Regional Park, 24151 Newhall Ave, Santa and parents. Barnes & Noble, 23630 Valencia Nikki Dail. She’ll talk about Belize and take Clarita. Info: friendsofhartpark.com Blvd., Santa Clarita. Info: stores.barnesand you to the Cayes, fly over the Blue Hole, tour Saturday, July 27, 10 a.m. to noon noble.com/store/2642 the Belize Zoo, explore Mayan ruins, and get Discover if you have the willingness, ability rescued after being trapped inside a flooded Wednesdays, 5 p.m Enjoy food trucks at and resources to take on the challenge of helpcave, while learning about the flora and fauna the Valencia Summit HOA Food Truck ing a child in need. Los Angeles County’s foster along the way. Placerita Canyon Nature Center, Fest. Tables and chairs will be available. care population exceeds 21,000 children with 19152 Placerita Canyon Rd, Santa Clarita. Info: Valencia Summit Homeowners Association 200 foster children waiting to be connected facebook.com/events/2283160858470626/ Clubhouse parking lot, 24600 West Del to a family who will adopt. Children’s Bureau, Monday, July 22, 6-8 p.m. Join state Sen. Monte Dr, Valencia. Info: facebook.com/ Ste 175, 27200 Tourney Rd, Valencia. Info: Scott Wilk, Supervisor Kathryn Barger and Asevents/644082939374546 all4kids.org/program/foster-care/ Thursdays, 6 p.m. Come to The Canyon for semblyman Tom Lackey at the Wildfire Town Saturday, July 27, 11:30 a.m. to a night of line dancing lessons and county Hall to hear from the experts and learn practic8 p.m. The Open Book Canyon music presented by Borderline Bar & Grill. es for keeping your home safe in a wildfire, Country will host its annual “Very Potter what are preventative measures taken by utility Guests 18 years old and older will be permitCelebration.” Celebrating ahead of the birthday companies, state and county preparedness plans ted, no parents or guardians needed to enter. of the Boy Who Lived, the book store will have and the City of Santa Clarita’s response/action Show a valid identification upon entry. The free books for kids, free crafts, free activiplan. The Centre, 20880 Centre Pointe Pkwy, Canyon – Santa Clarita, 24201 Valencia Blvd, ties, a gift basket raffle, and just a lot of wickedSanta Clarita. Info: (661) 286-1471, tinyurl.com/ ly wizardry fun! Come on your favorite cosplay, No. 1351, Santa Clarita. Info: wheremusic y58dkq5c meetsthesoul.com/canyon-santa-clarita represent your house (we are Hufflepuff and Tuesday, July 23, 6:30-9 p.m. The SCV welcome all)! The Open Book Canyon Country, Fridays, 7:30-9:30 p.m. The Education Foundation will host a cornhole 19188 Soledad Canyon Rd, Santa Clarita. Info: Valencia Jazz & Blues Concert tournament fundraiser. Registration starts facebook.com/pg/Theopenbookvalencia/posts/ Series returns for its 20th year, featuring will be within the first half hour, while the regional, national and international enterSaturday, July 27 at 7 p.m. Join us for tournament begins at 7 p.m. The first place tainers in a family-friendly, street party Concerts in the Park, presented by Logix, winner will receive $50, and the second setting offering activities for adults and featuring Queen Nation. The mission of the and third place winners will receive $25. children. The scheduled series will bring a show is to carry on the musical torch and pay $30 entry fee per two-person team. Wolf Creek homage to the golden age of vintage Queen variety of activities for the entire family, as Brewery, 25108 Rye Canyon Loop, Santa Clarita concerts. Queen Nation’s live 90-minute well as a variety of food and beverages. No Info: scveducationfoundation.org/?fbclid=I pets or outside food or beverages are alproduction of Queen’s greatest hits preserves lowed. Admission is free. Downtown Valencia wAR2dZAv7JkJTd7molunw6u8SisZd7XJYj2yh6 the image, sound, and stage persona of fBxApqGEGzi0heIsGJ5d1w on Town Center Drive, outside the Westfield vintage Queen. Central Park, 27150 Bouquet Friday, July 26, 8-11 p.m. Come to Hart Valencia Town Center. Info: For the lineup of Canyon Rd, Santa Clarita. Info: facebook.com/ performers, visit valenciajazzandblues.com/ Park for a free movie under the stars: events/1298029090350547/ “Spider-Man: Into the Spider-verse.” line-up/ Saturday, July 27, 8-10 p.m. Soundcheck is the SCVTV Community Media Center’s newest music series that provides a platform for young musicians from the Santa Clarita Valley to show off their musical prowess with the CONGRATULATIONS to Rita Paul for correctly performance of original songs. The show will identifying El Trocadero on page 19. begin with special guest, Ruby Garcia, and feaIdentify this advertiser and the page number in this week’s ture the main acts, Dean Decay and Familiar issue, and you will be entered to win a $100 gift certificate for Friends. General admission costs $8. The MAIN, a local restaurant. 24266 Main St, Newhall. Info: eventbrite.com/e/ One game and one winner each week. soundcheck-presents-dean-decayMail your entry to The Signal – Contest Make your remodeling familiar-friends-tickets-65042181917 26330 Diamond Place | Santa Clarita,dreams CA 91350come true. Or email contest@signalscv.com Sunday, July 28, noon to 2 p.m. Presented by Slow Motion Magic, Advertiser: _____________________________ Page # ______ Conjuring for a Cure will be holding its second Name: _____________________________________________ annual benefit to help the Michael J. Fox Address: ___________________________________________ Foundation’s Parkinson’s Disease research fund. Come for an afternoon of family friendly Phone: _____________________________________________ comedy comedy and magic that will leave you This week’s entries are due Wed. July 24 both laughing and amazed! 23120 Lyons Ave, Winner to be announced in 2 weeks. Newhall. Info: parkinsonsmagician@gmail.com

ONGOING

! WIN

EVENTS BY DATE

WIN

! WIN

Sunday, July 28, 2:30-3:30 p.m. The Santa Clarita Valley chapter of the Holistic Moms Network will host a screening of the documentary “Secret Ingredients.”The film shares different stories of people who learned about different ingredients in the foods they ate and what they did to decide to avoid those ingredients. SCV Birth Center, 23548 Lyons Ave, Ste B, Santa Clarita. Info: facebook.com/ events/2221029351349549/ Tuesday, July 30, 7-9 p.m. Join Art Tank for this informal discussion and bring us your tips and tricks on how you use your time more effectively to create greater results. If you have successful tools and ideas about organizational habits, discipline, systematization, goals, values, and time management style, please come out to this discussion and share. The MAIN, 24266 Main St, Newhall. Info: atthemain.org/tickets/ Friday, Aug. 2, 7-9 p.m. Erin McBride Africa directs “Julius Caesar” as part of Free Summer Shakespeare, which is hosted by the Santa Clarita Shakespeare Festival. Still one of the most relevant and salient pieces of theater revealing the machinations of power and public manipulation. Tickets are free, $20 for VIP seating. Newhall Family Theatre, 24600 Walnut St, Santa Clarita. Info: eventbrite.com/e/ free-shakespeare-julius-caesar-tickets Friday, Aug. 2 at 7 p.m. “Little Shop of Horrors” is a kid-friendly horror comedy rock musical, by composer Alan Menken and writer Howard Ashman, about a hapless florist shop worker who raises a plant that feeds on human blood and flesh. With four performances, this production features many talented local teens and Canyon High School alumni. Canyon High School Performing Arts Center, 19300 W. Nadal St., Canyon Country. Info: (661) 299-5264 Saturday, Aug. 3 at 7 p.m. Join Concerts in the Park to watch Mirage — Visions of Fleetwood Mac, which celebrates the classic lineup of the legendary superstar band. Based in Los Angeles, the members of Mirage capture the look and sound of Fleetwood Mac live in concert. Central Park 27150 Bouquet Canyon Rd, Santa Clarita. Info: facebook.com/ events/742248669510099/ Sunday, Aug. 4, 4:30-6:30 p.m. Artist Naomi Young will be on hand to discuss her latest exhibition of original art in pastel, watercolor, acrylics and oil. Wine and refreshments will be served and there will be a live musical performance by Maanak. The exhibition runs from August 1 to September 21, 2019. 10am to 5pm daily, closed Mondays. Canyon Theatre Guild 24242 Main St, Newhall. Info: santaclaritaarts. com/2019/03/27/portals/

J U LY 21, 2019

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 2 7

HOMEIMPROVEMENT

Installing shiplap; safety when installing drywall By Robert Lamoureux Signal Contributing Writer

Installing shiplap Hi Robert, I can handle many scopes of work around my house as I am a licensed electrician and have years of experience in construction but there are moments where I am uncertain about codes for building, and this is one of them. I prefer to follow the rules and make changes per code so here is the thing that stumped me at this time. I would like to put up shiplap, or wood in the form of shiplap, on the inside of an exterior wall. There is new drywall on this area so I’m wondering if I need to fire tape this, and prime and paint, prior to the install of the shiplap. Thank you for your help. — Konrad W. Konrad, On a wall that is not a fire wall, you do not have to fire tape this. You’ll want to at least prime the area most likely, and possibly paint it with the idea that the gap that is usually present with shiplap, will allow the color of the wall behind, to show. In your case, it would be the drywall so depending on the look that you’re going for, keep that in mind. If you’re dealing with a party wall, also known as a fire wall, this is one example where the answer would be, “Yes,” that you’d need to fire-tape. Any time you have a fire-rated area (or an area that’s designed to be fire-rated), you need to keep consistent with the planning/engineering, because otherwise you have a safety issue. Good question, and good luck with your project, — Robert Two layers of dry wall Hello Robert, I live in a condo in Canyon Country and have an adjoining wall with our next-door neighbor. We recently had a flood and the drywall on the adjoining wall was removed right down to the plywood. I am by no means a contractor, but as I recall during the removal of the wet

Any time you have a fire-rated area, you need to keep consistent with the planning/engineering, because otherwise you have a safety issue.

drywall, there were two layers of this stuff, the drywall. They sent in the handyman for repairs and he only put up one layer. I’m guessing that since there were two layers to begin with, there should be two put back. My question to you is, is there a reason that he only put one back, and is this OK? He told me we are done and even though the area looks like something is missing, he insists that this is OK. Please give me your feedback so I can be sure on this before I make an official complaint. Thank you, — Robert G. Robert, My feedback is that you are correct, and this should be two layers. The reason two are needed is because this is a fire wall. I can tell you that there was no permit pulled for this work which there should have been, this is one very good reason why. There is no way that an inspector would have signed off on this, as two layers are needed and the first layer

needs to be inspected prior to the second going up. The inspector would be checking for nailing, fire tape and in some cities, smoke stop. Once they sign off on the first layer then and only then, is it ok to proceed to the second layer. As I always say, the cities are there for safety, and they are vital to help make sure that things are done correctly so folks are safe. I highly recommend that you reach out to your management company and

request that they pull a permit and complete this job properly. Keeping in mind first and foremost safety, and in the unfortunate event of a fire, both homes need proper protection. Secondary to that, keep insurance in mind. Generally coverage can and will be questioned if such things are not done correctly. Advocate for yourself and get this done properly, ASAP. Good luck, — Robert Robert Lamoureux has 38 years of experience as a general contractor, with licenses in electrical and plumbing contracting. He owns IMS Construction Inc. in Valencia. His opinions are his own, not necessarily those of The Signal. Opinions expressed in this column are not meant to replace the recommendations of a qualified contractor after that contractor has made a thorough visual inspection. Email questions to robert@ imsconstruction.com.

Restore rusty tools

any people may be tempted to discard rusty tools that have gone unused and sat in a garage or shed for a significant period of time. But tools encrusted with rust do not need to be relegated to the trash bin, nor do gardeners have to toil for hours scraping and sanding off the rust. There’s a much easier way to restore rusty tools that relies on a common household ingredient: vinegar.

Pour vinegar into a deep enough vessel to submerge the metal part of the tool. Soak the tool overnight. The next day, use a scouring pad to rub off the rust. If the tool is too big to fit into a can or bucket, simply wrap it with a vinegar-soaked rag and cover the whole tool with a tightly secured plastic bag. Follow the same procedure the next day. After all the rust is gone, rinse the tool in cool water and dry thoroughly. Then return it to regular usage. — Metro Connection

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J U LY 21, 2019

BEAUTY

5 versatile jewelry styles to define your look

o you have an upcoming trip planned? Whether you’re going for a relaxed beach look or heading downtown to dazzle in the city lights, you want to plan outfits that make you feel great and fit the occasion. Jewelry is the go-to for defining your look, but you can only bring so many pieces. What’s the best solution? When you travel, it’s great to have versatile pieces of jewelry that minimize your packing, but not your style. From adjustable necklaces to hoops with added charms, the experts at Jewelry Television (JTV) recommend these pieces to provide looks for every trip and travel memory! Here are some versatile pieces of jewelry and tips for mixing and matching to create distinct looks without overpacking your accessories:

Adjustable necklaces

By taking some adjustable necklaces or magnetic extenders, you can

wear the same pieces several times and achieve a different look. Wear it alone or adjust the length and layer it with a multi-strand necklace to complement various necklines on

different outfits. You can also get an ensemble that enables you to rotate the chains or gemstones to create coordinated looks to match your attire.

Endless strands or lariat style necklaces

Endless strands are long-length, noclasp necklaces that can be worn long and layered, wrapped or even knotted. A lariat necklace has a design of its own; unlike traditional necklaces it has a lariat in place of a clasp, providing a lot of flexibility for styling. Very versatile, an endless strand or lariat-style necklace can be worn several different ways to create or complete your look. Wear it long or short, wrap it around to layer, or drape the ends down your back to accent an open or low-back outfit. You can also wear the lariat style necklace as a belt for an alternative vibe.

Interchangeable pendants or charms

A versatile set of earrings with interchangeable charms complements multiple outfits, and changing out the charms is a breeze. For example, a set of filigree hoops can be worn alone or you can swap out the charms for four unique looks. The same versatility can be achieved with one chain and multiple pendants to create the look of extra necklaces without the extra baggage.

Stackable bracelets and rings

Want a fashion-forward jewelry look for your next trip? Layering and

stacking is a trend everyone loves and is perfect for creating different styles with minimal effort. Choosing stackable bracelets enables you to vary your look from minimalist to fully layered — and everything in between. It’s easy to mix and match to create different styles. For rings, layer them on one finger or spread them across multiple fingers to transform your look from daytime to evening or one event to the next.

Consider alternative jewelry

Depending on your trip and what excursions you have planned, you may be tempted to bring your best tennis bracelet or gemstone pendant, but to keep jewelry safe, consider options that create the same high fashion look for less. Also, if you’re headed to the beach, consider leaving your diamond ring secured at home and wear a Bella Luce ring in its place. As always, the JTV experts recommend transporting your jewelry in a travel-proof jewelry roll for safekeeping. For more tips and to explore versatile jewelry styles, visit https:// www.jtv.com/traveltips. — Brandpoint

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SENIORLIVING A SECOND WIND

Getting comfortable, being uncomfortable By Mary Petersen Signal Staff Writer

am not a runner, but I joined a running club. Actually, my husband joined and bought the family membership, so I was enrolled by default. I didn’t mind, although I didn’t have intentions of running. In fact, for the first few months, I just joined the SCV runners for drinks and dinner after they ran. But pressure from them urging me to try it continued to build. Not only that, I read a spate of articles on the impending doom in the next twenty years of a boomer-Alzheimer’s epidemic (great, one more thing to worry about) and the hopeful news that aerobic exercise may slow cognitive decline. That was enough to get me running. After four months, I can say that running is not fun. I gasp for breath. I think about how much farther I have to go. I wonder if my endurance will sustain me. I feel slightly apprehensive as I walk onto the track and realize that I could have just stayed home. But at the same time, there is something rewarding about pushing myself to meet the mental and physical challenges. Running is something I never imagined myself doing. It challenges me in ways that other activities don’t. Researchers say that learning new and demanding life skills within the context of a social group can help us stay mentally sharp as we get older. They say it is important to get out and do something unfamiliar, to attempt something mentally challenging that engages us socially. Unfortunately, when we are inside

our comfort zone, we may be outside of the enhancement zone. There is something called “optimal anxiety” and it’s the slightly elevated stress level just outside our comfort zone. It’s where our productivity reaches its peak. We can’t realize our potential without venturing out of the comfort of our safety net. Psychologists say that as we get older, our comfort zone tends to shrink. We don’t try new things, change daily routines, or venture out of our social circles because it’s scary or uncomfortable. Of course, we don’t want to be outside our comfort zone all the time, subjecting ourselves to demanding challenges. Within the safety of our comfort zone, we can recharge, relax and feel at ease. It’s familiar, predictable and secure. We need this kind of comfort. Nonetheless, the more we risk and stretch ourselves, the more comfortable we feel with new experiences and the wider our comfort zone becomes. This means more of life’s experiences feel less daunting. If we keep expanding our comfort zone, we will open ourselves up to greater fulfillment and improved well-being as we age. Ironically, getting out of our comfort zone enlarges it. Embracing new experiences and feeling success with these challenges helps us feel more comfortable with situations that previously felt intimidating. When we do retreat to our comfort zone to reflect and synthesize our insights from these experiences, our comfort zone has expanded. It’s one of life’s curious paradoxes — getting uncomfortable leads us to being more comfortable. Mary Petersen is a retired COC English instructor, 30 year SCV resident, and two-time breast cancer survivor.

“THE MORE WE RISK AND STRETCH OURSELVES, THE MORE COMFORTABLE WE FEEL WITH NEW EXPERIENCES AND THE WIDER OUR COMFORT ZONE BECOMES.”

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30 · S U N D AYS I G N A L

J U LY 21, 2019

PROFILE

Following her dream, running the Hart District By Michele E. Buttelman Signal Staff Writer

icki Engbrecht, the superintendent of the William S. Hart Union High School District, is a longtime resident of the Santa Clarita Valley, and a passionate champion of education and the quality of SCV schools.

A Southern California native

Her passport declares she was born in Tulsa, Oklahoma, but Engbrecht said it wasn’t by plan. “I came earlier than expected,” she said. Her father was in Tulsa for his job when Engbrecht made her unscheduled arrival. “I call myself a native of Southern California because I’ve lived here all but maybe 2 months of my life,” she said. Engbrecht grew up in North Hollywood, attended Madison Junior High School and graduated from Grant High School in Van Nuys. She is a graduate of California State University, Northridge with a bachelor’s degree in English and a standard-life teaching credential. “It was known as Valley State when I attended,” she said. She earned her master’s degree in education, an administrative services credential and a professional administrative credential from the University of La Verne.

A born teacher

Engbrecht always knew she wanted to become a teacher. “I really looked up to my teachers and respected my teachers,” she said. “From the time I was 8 or 9 years old, I knew I wanted to be a teacher.” As a child, Engbrecht even turned her backyard wooden playhouse

Superintendent Vicki Engbrecht in front of the William S. Hart Union High School District Office in Santa Clarita. PHOTOS BY DAN WATSON / THE SIGNAL

into a little schoolhouse. She would round up the younger children in her neighborhood and bring them to her “schoolhouse.” “I would be their teacher and we would play school,” she said.

Discovering the SCV

Engbrecht did her student teaching at Soledad Canyon Community School in the Sulphur Springs Union School District. The Canyon Country

Superintendent Engbrecht in her office at the Hart school district offices.

elementary school opened in 1980 but was closed in 1991. The property was leased in 1993 to a developer for a strip mall. Student teaching second and fourth grade at Soledad Canyon was Engbrecht’s introduction to the Santa Clarita Valley. “I loved the area,” she said. Engbrecht, and her husband, George, bought a home in Canyon Country in 1974. “We’ve only lived in two places the entire time we’ve lived in the SCV: our first house in Canyon Country, and now we live in Saugus,” she said. “We have lived in Santa Clarita for more than 40 years.” The Engbrechts were married June 11, 1971, and recently celebrated their 48th wedding anniversary. They raised two sons, Chad and Rick; both are graduates of Canyon High School. “We have two grandchildren: a little girl, 9, and little boy, 5,” she said. “I love visiting the grandkids, who live in San Diego.”

A career at Hart

In 1976, Engbrecht was hired to

teach English at Sierra Vista Junior High School. It was her first paid teaching job. “I ended up staying at Sierra Vista for 17 years. I loved it,” she said. During her time at Sierra Vista Junior High, she was recognized as a Hart District Teacher of the Year and Los Angeles County Teacher of the Year. After a short stint teaching English at Saugus High School, Engbrecht moved into administration in the Hart District. In 1991, she became dean of students at Canyon High School. She was promoted to assistant principal at Canyon two years later, and was named principal of Canyon High School in 1997. After 11 years at Canyon, Engbrecht moved to the Hart District office in 2002 as director of curriculum and assessment. In 2007, she was named assistant superintendent of education services, followed by a promotion to deputy superintendent. Engbrecht was named to the top job of superintendent of the Hart

J U LY 21, 2019

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 3 1

PROFILE District in 2014 upon the retirement of then-Superintendent Rob Challinor, which was effective Feb. 1, 2015. “I started in the Hart District in 1976, and since then, the Hart district has been my only employer,” she said. Engbrecht’s current contract as Hart superintendent runs through June 2020.

Castaic High School

The long-awaited Castaic High School will open on Aug. 13 with its first class of ninth-graders. “I wanted to stay (as superintendent) and see the successful opening of Castaic High School,” Engbrecht said. “It’s going to be wonderous. I can’t be more pleased with the school we are going to open.” The school has already signed up approximately 320 students. “We have staff hired, coaches, teachers and a counselor and principal, so we are all set to open,” she said. “The school is magnificent: state of the art. It will have … classroom space and athletic and art spaces. We’ve also put aside additional room for career technical education sources. It will have one of the most

Superintendent Engbrecht (left) with Executive Assistant Debbie Dunn.

well-developed CTE programs of any of the schools in our district.” Castaic High School will be the seventh comprehensive high school in the Hart District, joining Hart, Canyon, Saugus, Valencia, Golden Valley and West Ranch. The district, which serves more than 22,000 SCV students, also operates six junior high schools and several alternative school programs, including Academy of the Canyons, Bowman Continuation High School, Learning Post, Hart at Home and Sequoia School. “We recognize that not all kids are going to go to college, and not all kids

can learn best at one of our big high schools or big junior high schools,” she said. “Seeing how students who may not have been successful if we didn’t have those programs are flourishing is a very satisfying part of the job.” The new iCAN program at Castaic High School, also opening on the new campus in August, will offer students the opportunity to take classes at College of the Canyons. “It will be similar to AOC, where students can take community college classes concurrently within their high school program,” said Engbrecht. The program has nearly 120 students enrolled for the upcoming year, she said.

An ‘exemplary district’

Engbrecht said the Hart District has one of the highest high school graduation rates in the state of California, in excess of 95%. In addition, the Hart District was named a 2019 California Exemplary District, one of only 18 districts in the state named an Exemplary District by the California Department of

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Education. “We were the only district named an Exemplary District in Los Angeles County,” she said. “The award was based on school climate, culture and student performance. We were surprised, but also very gratified. We have such good people on our staff. Our teachers, our counselors, our support staff are all so committed to our students. It’s because of our people that we’re able to do well as a school district.”

A rewarding career

“The most rewarding part of the job is spending time on our school campuses,” Engbrecht said. “I enjoy just seeing how wonderful the students are, how bright and energetic. This community is raising outstanding kids.” Engbrecht said she celebrates the success of all Hart District students, but attending graduations at the alternative campuses has a special impact. “You go to a graduation at Bowman or Sequoia and you leave feeling so good, like what you do really matters,” she said.

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32 · S U N D AYS I G N A L

J U LY 21, 2019

FOOD

5 tips for stress-free outdoor entertaining

ood food, great company and the beauty of the outdoors: dining al fresco with family or friends is the perfect way to enjoy beautiful weather. For many people, though, the job of outdoor entertaining can feel somewhat intimidating. But it doesn’t have to be. With these simple tips, you’ll end up hosting a memorable, stress-free get-together, whether it’s a lovely patio lunch for two or a poolside party for 20.

Keep it cool

If the weather on the day of your event is expected to be particularly hot, make sure you plan ways to keep things cool. Set up tables and chairs within the natural outdoor shade or move seating under umbrellas and awnings. You could even set out small spray bottles for guests to cool themselves off, or supply attendees with paper fans you can find at the local dollar store. Keep plenty of ice-cold beverages within easy reach by stock-

ing metal serving tubs with drinks. No tubs? Look around your house for unexpected inspiration. For example, a wheelbarrow or kids’ wagon filled with ice and beverages works great and will reflect the easy summer vibes of your outdoor party.

Streamline food prep

Being a gracious host shouldn’t mean being stuck in the kitchen. By choosing easy dishes, you’ll make guests happy while freeing yourself up to join in on all the fun. A great place to look for crowd-pleasing appetizers that require little to no prep work is the frozen food aisle. Here, you’ll find a variety of high-quality, ready-made options that will help you save time without sacrificing taste. A summertime favorite that shouldn’t be forgotten is seafood. Brands like SeaPak make entertaining easy, with a variety of party-ready products like popcorn shrimp, shrimp spring rolls and butterfly shrimp available at your local grocery store.

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Summertime meals are all about keeping it simple, so a handful of light and flavorful courses are all you need to keep your guests satisfied. Try this buffalo shrimp sandwich.

Vary serving ware

Worried about mismatched serving ware? Fret not. This is hardly a problem when it comes to easy, breezy outdoor entertaining. Using an eclectic mix of different pieces, like wooden cutting boards, floral platters and striped serving trays, is both charming and on-trend. Even the plates that guests use can be a fun hodgepodge of patterns. Keep in mind that if you’re serving food buffet style, you’ll want to have some mesh food covers on hand to protect your dishes.

Add outdoor activities

By adding some casual outdoor activities to your event, you’ll create a relaxed, playful mood that will inspire guests to mingle. Puzzles and board games are an ideal complement to all the easy-going conversation, and yard games, like croquet, beanbag toss and horseshoes, are popular standbys for partygoers both young and old. If kids will be in attendance, keep them occupied with their own activities and supplies, such as bubble blowers and washable sidewalk chalk.

Simplify your menu

Summertime meals are all about keeping it simple, so a handful of light and flavorful courses are all you need to keep your guests satisfied. A colorful summer salad, fresh grilled

vegetables and a few easy main dishes like sandwiches and kebabs make up a perfect seasonal menu. Of course, don’t forget the dessert! Wow your guests with a fruit-topped cheesecake or pound cake. To add a little food fun to your menu, try this Buffalo Shrimp Sandwich recipe. It will be perfect for setting the outdoor mood. Enjoy!

Buffalo Shrimp Sandwich

1 18 oz package SeaPak(R) Popcorn Shrimp 1 cup prepared buffalo sauce* 1 soft baguette cut into 4 equal pieces, sliced and toasted 4 ounces blue cheese 1 cup arugula

Prepare popcorn shrimp according to package directions and toss with the buffalo sauce. Divide the arugula between the 4 rolls and top each with the popcorn shrimp mixture. Top each sandwich with blue cheese and serve. For extra messy sandwiches, drizzle any leftover sauce onto the top of your sandwich before serving. Tip To make your own buffalo sauce instead, mix together 8 tablespoons melted butter, ½ cup hot sauce, and 1 teaspoon seasoned salt. — Brandpoint

J U LY 21, 2019

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 3 3

HOME&DESIGN

How to nail the farmhouse style in your interior decorating

armhouse style is cozy, rustic, charming and eclectic. While creating the vibe in your own home is easy, according to home decorating experts, it requires some attention to detail. Designer, Instagram personality, blogger and business owner Liz Marie Galvan, who recently renovated her 1840s farmhouse, is sharing a few key elements to consider:

the weathered look, consider sourcing locally reclaimed lumber, where possible. You can continue the wood motif by adding shiplap accent walls or even shiplap ceilings to certain rooms.

Replacement windows

Natural wood elements

Searching for the perfect table, picture frame or bookshelf? When in doubt, use natural wood. “Natural wood really evokes that old-time feel. In our home we have

wood flooring in every room, but you can also bring in natural-wood kitchen cabinets, dressers, trim and so much more.” To be eco-conscious while nailing

Six home trends to consider

ome design and real estate trends come and go, but once in awhile certain concepts exhibit considerable staying power. Staying abreast of what’s hot and what’s not can be a bit overwhelming. This list breaks down some of the trends that have made a splash and figure to be around for some time.

and a big wood table in the dining room are hallmarks of farmhouse style. This is a fun design trend that can be personalized for cozy appeal.

Open concept spaces

Row homes

Watch the DIY Network or HGTV and you’ll quickly understand that open floor plans remain highly coveted. Many modern, newly built homes have a large multi-purpose area that blurs the borders of the kitchen, dining area and family room. These homes make it easy to entertain and keep an eye on youngsters.

Patterned fabrics and upholstery

Solids will always have their place in home decor, but patterned furnishings are making a name for themselves as well. Today’s homeowners are not afraid to experiment with geometric and floral patterns alongside neutral colors to showcase their personalities, advises the real estate industry resource, The Lighter Side of Real Estate.

Farmhouse chic

Many people want the ambiance of a rustic, antique farmhouse even if they live miles away from the country. Reclaimed wood on the walls, exposed beams, eclectic accessories,

Hidden appliances

Making appliances disappear into the background is a growing trend. This is achieved with products that blend in with or are hidden behind cabinetry. Popularized in the 19th century and then again in the 1960s and 1980s, townhouses are making another comeback. Townhomes made up about 12.4% of all new construction in the single-family home market last year, according to data from the U.S. Census Bureau. According to a Realtor.com® survey released in October 2017, townhouses were the most popular form of housing after single-family homes. They were especially popular among millennial buyers.

“Most people don’t think a lot about windows — window treatments, yes, but windows … not so much,” points out Galvan. “But windows themselves can be a game-changer. One of the key parts of our renovation was all-new windows with a historically accurate grille pattern, which totally changed the look and feel of the house.” This upgrade not only complemented the historical period of the home’s structure to define the look, it also eliminated the draft she was experiencing from the old windows that came with the home — a good reminder that old-school charm does not need to be accompanied by old-school discomfort. While Galvan did her windows in white with colonial grilles, other colors, such as black, would also go great in a farmhouse-style home. Keep in mind, there are many elements to consider, and you’ll want the flexibility to customize. This is why Galvan turned to Renewal by Andersen, the full-service custom replacement window division of Andersen. Offering a start-to-finish process, one can select among 49 color combinations, nu-

merous hardware choices and a wide variety of grille patterns and frames — including a custom-designed option. For customization inspiration, visit renewealbyandersen.com/style. As for trim, Galvan says you can get instant farmhouse vibes and make a new build look old by using thick, chunky window, door and floorboard trim throughout the entire home.

Extra touches

Decorate with items you’d actually find on a farm, as much as possible. Galvan used rustic farmhouse fabrics like grain-sack, tobacco baskets, chicken nesters, farmhouse signs, barn wood and more. And about 80% of her home’s furniture is antique or vintage, she says. Antiquing is not only fun, but when you find that perfect treasure, there may be a touch of triumph involved. However, if the treasure hunt starts to feel more like a search for a needle in a haystack, consider going the “faux antique” route. Many stores sell convincing reproductions. For more style inspiration and to learn more about Galvan’s project, visit renewalbyandersen.com/farmhouse. Whether your home was built last year or last century, a farmhouse style will give the space coziness and warmth. —StatePoint

Multigenerational homes

Buyers between the ages of 53 and 62 are increasingly looking at homes that can accommodate children older than 18, with a room or apartment available to care for an aging parent, states the National Association of REALTORS®. Home trends continue to evolve, and some trends have exhibited more staying power than others. — Metro Connection

Decorate with items you’d actually find on a farm. Use rustic farmhouse fabrics like grain-sack, tobacco baskets, chicken nesters, farmhouse signs and barn wood.

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J U LY 21, 2019

TIMERANGER

Explosions, Con Men, Tarts, Stars & Crawlers It wouldn’t hurt some of you to volunteer to saddle up some of these dude ranch broncos. There’s thousands of them. Not that I’m a victim or anything. C’mon, all y’all. A complete vista of gee-whiz experiences await us, dear saddlepals. Shall we mosey in the mystic of the Santa Clarita of yesteryear? WAY BACK WHEN & THEN SOME

• Choo-Choo stuff The Soledad railroad tunnel was finished back on July 27, 1876, linking the Santa Clarita Valley with the east. Some today still say it was a mistake. • Sand Canyon Frenchman Not too many have heard of Frenchman Jean Joseph Reynier. On July 27, 1864, he arrived in Sand Canyon. He was 15. Later, he’d homestead 1,200 acres and his daughter would marry Frank Walker and start the Placerita Canyon dynasty. JULY 21, 1919

• When actors actually did things Local film superstar Tom Mix took first place in a special “Screen Actors’ 25-mile Horse Race” on this date, 100 years ago. • My history grandfather Before Jerry Reynolds, the town historian was this skinny fella named A.B. Perkins. Ten decades back, “Perk” was living in Carrara, Nevada, and was getting ready to move to Newhall. Perkins bought the old Newhall Water Co. from Henry Clay Needham for $25,000. JULY 21, 1929

• Getting real. And Pete Two workers for the Midway Gas Co. never came back from patrol. Pete Wahl and Gabriel Real were checking out a break in pressure in the main pipeline just north of Castaic. They had no idea of the size of the gash. Investigators pieced together they must have driven into the field at a pretty good clip, realized the extent of the leak and tried to slam on the brakes. Something from their car — brakes, a cigarette, something in the ignition system — ignited the gas and a flame over an acre deep and across erupted, burning their car and bodies to ashes. The break was blamed on an earthquake in the area a week earlier. • Dark coincidence A new employ-

ee started work on the reconstruction and cleanup of San Francisquito Canyon from the great dam bursting a year earlier. The worker’s name? C.C. Rubble. • West Point in the SCV? Almost … They made the plans but it was never built. Roy Baker, owner of the old 400-acre Baker Ranch, which would today be known as the Saugus Speedway, almost sold his ranch to a Capt. George Hester of Pasadena. George was going to build a prestigious boys’ military academy there, using the grounds for classrooms, athletic and training fields, dorms and a polo grounds. The school was to be used to train high school boys for the military and would have been under the direct jurisdiction of West Point. • Doggone it! The Hager family of Placerita Canyon bought the valley’s only hot dog stand on this date. The previous owners may have had an identity problem. They called their little lean-to, “Hamburger Slim’s Hot Dog Stand.” Cripes. Some 500 people here — how many dogs would you have to sell in a day to make a profit? JULY 21, 1939

• Howdy, Hoppy! Bill Boyd was careening through Placerita Canyon, fistfighting a dozen-plus outlaws and shooting a few more. Not to worry. He was just filming a Western, “Medicine Show.” You might know Bill by his show biz name — Hopalong Cassidy. • Bonus points to anyone who brings in the location and the gold Mrs. Annie Briggs, owner of the Lost Padre Mine up Bear Creek in Castaic, had heard all the tales of her claim being haunted. Fifty years earlier, one of the valley’s meanest pistol fighters and drunks, a fellow by the

name of Riley if memory serves me well, shot a half-dozen workers and buried them in the pit. (He was later murdered a few days later, sleeping off a drunk in his bunk. Someone put a shotgun a few inches away and nearly blew his head off.) Folks say the mine was haunted by ghosts. On this date in 1939, Annie Briggs and her husband were working and a huge landslide filled up the entrance. Adding more spice to the story, Bill Rose stopped by to help the couple clear away the rubble. As a young man 20 years earlier, Mr. Rose shot W.W. Jenkins on a lonely dirt road to end the 40-year Castaic Range War. By the way. The exact location of the mine is still a mystery today. • Tales of old ammo & old amor A romantic triangle on the old Nettles Auto Court on San Fernando Road near 15th Street ended up with Jack Messenger getting perforated with four slugs from a 30-30 Winchester by hubbie Earl Leaverton. Messenger’s life was saved by the fact that Earl used bum ammunition. The gunpowder was so old, the bullets just barely penetrated Messenger’s body. JULY 21, 1949

• Tarts in action Judge Art Miller called it the “Little Cicero of the Mountains.” Some L.A. gangster had attempted to set up a gambling and prostitution ring at Acton Junction. The boys were busted and sent to jail. The girls were dropped off in downtown Los Angeles. • Have you any idea how far 6 miles is? Prominent rancher Andy Bellow and pilot Ed Tannehill crashed in the hills above Canyon Country. The two men were badly injured but both managed to literally crawl 6 miles for help. • Must’ve been X-Rated George Reichert got razzed by his fellow firefighters. Seems while he was away putting out a brush fire, a stack of magazines in his back yard caught fire. Passing U.S. Army Rangers, sent in to help with the blaze, squirted his garage down for him. JULY 21, 1959

• What are the rural odds of that? This week, 60 years ago, three hay trucks in separate accidents all caught fire in the SCV. One cause was

overheated brakes coming down the Grapevine. The other two incinerations were classified as spontaneous combustion. We were just awash in flames this week, with a wide variety of brush fires starting from everything from flung cigarette butts to railroad wheels kicking out sparks. No serious damage, though. JULY 21, 1969

• Giving cops a bad name Today he’s one of the owners of the famed western movie studio, Melody Ranch, but 50 years ago, Renaud Veluzat was managing the family store on San Fernando Road. Renaud and his brother Andre had just closed the store for the evening when the Special Enforcement Bureau of the Sheriff ’s Department nearly busted the door down. There were customers in the store still, but the SEB officers held the Veluzats at shotgun-point. Several times the merchants identified themselves as owners of the store, but were roughed up. The SEB had been under investigation for several overly zealous run-ins with the community. A Signal editorial condemned the squad for their “roughshod and vulgar” tactics. JULY 21, 1979

• A-tone. B-tone. Whatever it takes. Insurance agent and con man Duane Gartner told the judge that he told God he’d do 400 hours of community service to atone for 21 counts of grand theft and cheating his clients out of hundreds of thousands of dollars. Judge Stan Malone said 400 hours was a bit too much — he ordered just 360 hours of community service. Plus a $50,000 fine. Plus six months in jail. I don’t know about you, saddlepals, but I after we head back through the time vortex of The SCV Here-&-Now, I might sneak back to 1919 to take a nap and just smile at the open space. See you in seven with another exciting Time Ranger adventure. Until then — vayan con Dios, amigos! John Boston has been writing about SCV history for more than 40 years. Read his historical tome, “Images of America: The Santa Clarita Valley” on Amazon.com. Check out his History of The Mighty Signal series on Saturdays on A1.

J U LY 21, 2019

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 3 5

GARDENING

Do-it-yourself yard art from the most unusual things By Jane Gates Signal Staff Writer

ou can make do-it-yourself yard art with a little of your own creativity. Yard art is anything that will decorate your landscape. You can use it anyway you want. And if you want to do it yourself, you can make exactly what you want without impacting your landscaping budget. Decorate your gates, fences, walls or doorways. Add a focal point or point-of-interest into your garden area. Create some whimsy with some humorous signage, or an unexpected creature peaking out of a pond behind a bush or over a wall. Think about places in your yard that can be improved by adding something artistic. Yard art can be in the form of a large or eye-catching event, or it can be subtle like items of décor. Examples of DYI art that create interesting focal points would be sculptures, archways or fountains. You can build your own fountain by simply adapting a pot or a few wellplaced rocks with a submersible pump that recycles water from a tub, up through piping to tumble back over the rocks or out the top of a pebble-filled pot to spill back into the tub. Re-using ordinary household items can also become yard art. You might want to paint a dilapidated wooden ladder a playful color and train climbing vines over it, or plant an old washtub into a decorative piece of yard art. Recycle old glass bottles as hanging sculptures or turn them up-

Construct an artistic wall with bottles and corks using recycled pieces of wood or, make your own stepping stones with pieces of stained glass. You could also rescue old bowling balls for mulch. PHOTOS COURTESY JANE GATES

side-down to water potted plants. You can even plant small cactus plants into an old worn-out pair of boots filled with sand and soil. Stepping stones are ideal for making do-it-yourself yard art. There are acrylic paints now fabricated to last outdoors, and you can paint plain cement squares or rounds with clever sayings, designs or your own illustrations. Consider getting the kids together with friends and have them all paint their own stepping stone creations, then lay the results into a decorative path in your landscape. You can cast your own stepping stones with cement or plaster and make them ornamental by pressing stained glass, sea shells or colored stones into the surface before the stone mixture sets. Rescue your favorite plants or Mountains, trees and nature all around. What an opportunity for full time residence, personal get away or rental. Beautiful 3 bed- 2 bath well maintained 2002 manufactured home on permanent foundation. Back deck for outdoor dining & enjoying the view. Open updated kitchen w/custom cabinets, granite counters, newer flooring & morning room. Master suite has two walk in closets. Ensuite with soaking tub, separate shower, water closet and vanity dual sinks. Living room with wood burning fireplace, vinyl dual glaze windows & increased insulation in walls, ceiling & floor. Single extra length garage. Amenities at Pine Mountain Club include pool, tennis, golf, Equestrian Center, hiking trails, lake, etc..................$275,000

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garden furniture from your male dog by making your own artistic pee posts in a pet-friendly garden. Simply take three vertical posts, which can be

made of anything from wood to natural branches to metal or PVC pipes to whatever strikes your fancy. Paint them decoratively and set them up near your pet’s favorite marking area. Flat ground can become artistic by pouring colored gravel into designs or laying out pavers, bricks or tiles into colorful patterns. Or, you can buy forms and build your own fake rocks. There are many ways you can make do-it-yourself yard art. Before throwing out items from your home or garage think about how you could recycle them into something decorative for your garden. Use creating yard art as an excuse to get the family or friends together for a fun project. Whether you make something practical, fun and/or beautiful, have fun building your own yard art. Art and décor can take so many different forms. Trash can become precious when repurposed into art. Why waste it? Personalize your landscape to your own tastes. And do it yourself. For free!

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(661) 313-4284 DRE 01819459

#SCRealEstateMamas

Raquel Marchant

Kimberly Thurman

BROKER ASSOCIATE

661.212.0201

Raquel@RealtyPros1.com DRE#01165332

AWESOME RANCH HOME! $565,000 • 4 Bedrooms, 3 Bath, 2,371 sqft • Vaulted Ceiling in Every Room! • Highly Upgraded Kitchen • 2 Horse Stalls, 2 Barns • 3 Car Garage+RV Parking • End of Cul De Sac

BRANDON KING

DRE 01819459

Friendly Valley Senior Community

$1,275,000 21243 Oak Orchard Rd Newhall 91321

Broker Associate, Realty Executives SCV – CalBRE #01059833

www.gailkopp.com gail@gailkopp.com

28657 Farrier Dr. Valencia, 91354

Gail Kopp

Broker Associate, DRE #01059833

661-313-4062 Michelle Munera

REALTOR® Lic. 01484482 Realty Executives Agua Dulce www.MarilynMerlotinscv.com

661-644-6120

Single Family Residence approximately 1400 square feet, 3 Bedrooms 2 Baths, The Master Bath Addition has a shower, a large walk in closet all done with permits. Permitted Family Room Addition with Fireplace, Central Air, NO HOA, NO Mello Roos ! Call for your private showing...$ 439,000

Marilyn Garner

$669,000

CalBRE#01030351

RE/MAX of Valencia CalBRE #01331788

Single story, 3+2+office 2,363 SF, well designed and well-built home sits on the NW corner knoll of the property to take advantage of the sweeping views. Horse facilities include a workshop attached to a 3 stall stable with turn-outs. 2 additional stalls, several fenced areas designed for dogs/goats/sheep, a chicken “condo”, 2 arenas, 2 covered carports and several out buildings. Landscaped with mature trees that provide beauty, shade and privacy. Excellent Well at 6.7 GPM, that works out to 9,648 gallons a day!

33716 Hubbard Rd, Acton 93510

16670 Soledad Cyn Rd kellar@earthlink.net

Dean Cox

CLASSIC CALIFORNIA EQUESTRIAN RANCH

661-904-1323

661.510.0987

4+5 – 2942 sq ft, Gorgeous executive home behind the gates in West Hills. Loft room with private bath could be 5th bedroom. Downstairs bed and bath with private entrance. $759,000

Gail Kopp 19162 Avenue of the Oaks Unit A, Santa Clarita, CA 91321

Kim@RealtyPros1.com DRE#02014473

Gorgeous Executive Home

Private fenced yard, 2 beds, 2 baths, 864 sqft-End Unit. Remodeled Master Bath, Newer Roof, Newer A/C Unit. HOA includes Cable TV, Trash/Recycle. Washer/Dryer included. 24 hour Security Guard Gated Community. Amenities include Multipurpose buildings, heated Olympic size pool, 9 hole executive golf course, barbecue / picnic areas and more.

(Ofc) 661-250-8677 (Cell) 661-313-4062

661.373.6597

Bob Kellar

HOME SELLING TEAM

(661) 313-4284

REALTOR®

4 Beds 3 baths 3275 sq ft. custom Placerita Cyn home on 2.5 acres. Formal dining&sitting room w/ fireplace. Large kitchen, granite counters, Viking stove, walk-in pantry. Master with walk-in closet, Jacuzzi tub, fireplace and balcony. Big back yard w/covered patio, BBQ, pool & spa. Recently remodeled 800 sqft. recreation building. Next to open space & trails NO MELLO ROOS OR HOA.

$5,000 Home Purchase 15 MINUTES From Canyon Country Virtual Tour: www.32895chantadaave.com Savings Guarantee! www.saveme5000.com • 1.35 Acres

Placerita Canyon Estate Home Unique Property With A Full Sized Finished Basement! ~ 7 Bedrooms, 5 1/2 Baths, 6215 Sq. Feet ~ 3 Separate Living Spaces ~ 3791 Square Foot Single Story Main House ~ Guest House With Front And Backyard ~ 1600 Square Foot Finished Basement with Full Kitchen ~ Regulation Size Tennis Court ~ Oversized Pool And Spa ~ 4 Car Garage with Porte Coch ~ Skate Park ~ Multiple Rv Parking ~ 1.2 Flat, Usable Acres MLS#SR19071368 $2,295,000

VIRTUAL TOUR: www.15622nahin.info • 5 Bedrooms + Loft, 4 Bath 3,619 sqft • Downstairs bedroom • 3 Car Garage • Built-in BBQ Island and Fire Pit • Granite Kitchen • Stainless Appliances

K NO MELLO ROOS! No Rear Neighbors!

21751 Placeritos Blvd. Newhall Ca. 91321

Realtor, DRE# 01328342

27311 Altamere Ave, Canyon Country, CA 91351

626-390-4724

Realty Executives SCV

J U LY 21, 2019

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 3 7

SINGLE STORY POOL HOME! $525,000 Instant Access To All POOL HOMES IN SCV!

HUGE YARD WITH POOL Virtual Tour: www.15270poppymeadow.info • New Flooring & Paint Throughout! • Updated Kitchen w/Recessed Lighting! • Premium Lot / Entertainment Yard • Master Bedroom off back! • Easily Add Sqft To This Home! • No HOA or Mello Roos!

www.scvprivatepoolhomes.com

Manufactured Home Affordable 3 bedroom 2 bath manufactured home in gate guarded Community. Open Floor plan, updated kitchen with large living area. Common Area amenities include pool, spa, tennis court, play area, clubhouse. Financing is available -$181,500 20087 Northcliff Drive Santa Clarita, CA

BRANDON KING HOME SELLING TEAM

(661) 313-4284 DRE 01819459

Beautiful Property ~ Beautiful Home

Just minutes from SCV. Enjoy all 4 seasons on this 20+ acre ranch Home is 6247 sq. ft. with incredible VIEWS

Country Estate on easily one of the most beautiful pieces of property in all of Agua Dulce! Single story, Hacienda style ranch house, 4,080 sf, 5 Bedrooms/4 bathrooms. Spacious kitchen with Center Island. Formal Dining room. Family-room with raised hearth fireplace and wet bar. The Master suite has a fireplace & giant walk-in closet. Absolutely stunning park like 7.2 flat and usable acres is completely fenced and private. 3 car garage. Incredible views from everywhere on the property. This property will not disappoint.

$1,550,000 8072 Cuddy Valley Road in Frazier Park

Marilyn Garner State Lic: 01484482

$1,099,000

35356 Sierra Vista Dr, Agua Dulce 91390

Office: 661-904-1323

www.MarilynMerlotinSCV.com MarilynMerlot@sbcglobal.net

25711 Shady Oak Ln is a true masterpiece in the most prestigious guarded & gated community in Valencia, Westridge Estates. Custom built home was meticulously designed with comfort and luxury in mind. Massive 12car underground garage and entertainment space, gourmet kitchen is equip with top grade appliances, open breakfast and living area. Large patio with outdoor kitchen and amazing views of private pool and city lights. This is truly a one-of-a-kind home

STARR JAMES DRE #02082408

(818) 517-3318 (661) 705-3200

starrjamesrealtor@gmail.com

Ask about a CASH BACK REBATE!

PINNACLE

Let’s Make A Deal 4 beds 3 full baths~ 3,194 sqft ~11,217 sqft lot. Built in 1987 Single Family Residence. Magnificent VICTORIAN one of a kind home with studio above garage could be yours. Exquisite detail from the moment you enter...

Suzie Wing Wood

DRE# 01826800

661-609-6666

20501 Blairmoore St., Chatsworth, CA 91311

Gary Wat

ESTATE PROPERTIES INC

6 beds 5 baths 3,674 sq ft 4 car garage Beautifully upgraded Hasley Canyon Estate. Travertine flooring, crown moldings, plantation shutters, mirrored closets, surround sound and recessed lighting! Tons of upgrades throughout this spacious open floor plan. Beautiful views looking down on the valley from every room. Private serene country setting with perfect backyard for entertaining. $1,250,000

csjwood@aol.com

THEAGENCY

Cell: 626.236.2709 www.25711Shadyoak.com - $3,999,000

gary.wat@theagencyre.com CalBRE##01968039

GOLF...GATED...VIEW... This Newhall Friendly Valley 2 bd/2 bath +Den ~ Stand-alone home has approx. 1561 sq. ft. Incredible view, great floor plan, 2 golf courses, gated/guard community,many activities, pool, much more! Come Home Today $565,000

SARA P. SEELEY CalBRE # 01241142

(661) 609-6200

Sara@SaraSeeley.com 23914 Summerhill Lane, Valencia, CA 91354

Each office independently owned and operated.

38 · S U N D AYS I G N A L

J U LY 21, 2019

ANOTHER HOT NEW LISTING www.29401abelia.info

Build Your Custom Dream Home

• Remodeled 4+2 Home OFFERED AT: • Solar is Owned! • Fresh Paint & Flooring! • TWO Residential Lots with No Rear Neighbors!

Unique opportunity to build your custom dream home in Sand Canyon’s most private and exclusive subdivision,

Beat Out Other Buyers To HOT NEW LISTINGS! www.scvhomedeals.com

6 lots on 40 acres. Most development fees already paid. Ready to build. Lots are reasonably priced.

$598,000!

Oak Creek Ranch.

BRANDON KING

Bob Kellar

(661) 313-4284

16670 Soledad Cyn Rd kellar@earthlink.net

HOME SELLING TEAM

661.510.0987 CalBRE#01030351

DRE 01819459

YOURHOMESOLD

Happy Valley Single Story Home 5+3 – 2,950 sq ft, single story, classic California ranch style pool home in Happy Valley. Lot is 11,822 sq ft and there is tons of RV/Boat/Toy parking. $875,000

GUARANTEED, OR I’LL BUY IT!*

www.SOLDBYBRANDONKING.com FIND OUT WHAT YOUR HOME IS WORTH!

www.SCVHOMEESTIMATE.com Dean Cox

BRANDON KING HOME SELLING TEAM

661-313-4284

23322 Maple St., Newhall, 91321

*Seller & Brandon must agree on price and terms. DRE 01819459

Sierra Bonita 80 acre ranch

MOVE-IN READY 4 bedroom 3 bath in heart of Valencia~ spacious living areas with custom crown molding and original hardwood floors. The Kitchen opens to the family room. Master Suite offers large walk-in closet and balcony. In-ground spa, built-in barbecue and patio bar complete the yard. No Mello Roos!!!

$829,900

Marilyn Garner

Anthony Bedgood

REALTOR® Lic. 01484482 Realty Executives Agua Dulce 661-904-1323

Located in Agua Dulce - $13,500,000

www.MarilynMerlotinscv.com

Newer 3 bedroom, 2.5 bathroom home in gated community, Villa Metro. Beautiful wood laminate floors, high ceilings and recessed lighting. Large kitchen with granite counters, center island, stainless steel sink and appliances. Large master bedroom with walk in closet. Master bath with dual sinks & separate water closet. Stackable laundry upstairs. Nice size secondary bedrooms, one has a “Romeo and Juliet” balcony! Very sweet back yard/courtyard. Large 2 car attached garage. Community boasts resort style pool, clubhouse, playground, barbeque and garden to grow your own vegetables or flowers!! $489,000 21860 Moveo Dr , Saugus 91350

DRE# 02006273

661-523-2564

23929 Windward Lane, Valencia

Beautiful turn key mobile home in senior park, lowest rent space in Santa Clarita, 3 bedroom +2 bathroom, 1120 sqft. Double wide built in 2016, open floor plan, high ceilings, dual pane windows, ceiling fans in all rooms upgraded appliances, backyard pavers and gravel with separate grass area automatic sprinklers, completely fenced refrigerator/washer/dryer are included all this and more for $ 174,999

JUDY JENSEN

“You deserve to be treated like Royalty!”

bobandcarlotta@sbcglobal.net Dre# 01311715

Anthonybedgood@gmail.com

Making Dreams Come True!

CARLOTTA LEVY Phone:(661)714-3559

661-644-6120

SPECTACULAR BRIDGEPORT HOME!!

Located just 40 miles north of Los Angeles. 5 houses built on a high plateau with 360 degree unobstructed views of the Sierra Pelona Mountains and beyond. Built in 2009 the single story main house is 3+3, and is 2,908 sf of understated elegance. The other 4, more rustic, houses range in size from 822 to 1,204 sf and are ideal for the ultimate family compound or corporate retreat. A huge resort style patio with pool & spa, Tennis Court, helicopter garage, airplane hangar, pond, mature trees and 3 wells are also included on the property.

SierraBonitaRanch.com

RE/MAX of Valencia CalBRE #01331788

Realtor DRE #01008448

(661)713-0554

Santa Clarita Valley

Judyleejensen@yahoo.com

J U LY 21, 2019

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 3 9

N E W S F E AT U R E S

BIG ONE

Continued from page 6

community and have established an emergency texting system, a warning system and can push information out through various social platforms. She said they also coordinate with Henry Mayo, and make sure they’ll know how to communicate and react in the event of a major earthquake. In 2004, Henry Mayo became one of L.A. County’s 13 Disaster Resource Centers, meaning that they work with the 12 other DRC’s in the county planning, training and exercising together. And within the last month, they worked in a tabletop exercise with multiple hospitals in the region to run internal flooding exercises, one of the consequences of earthquakes, according to Terry Stone, the Henry Mayo emergency manager. Stone and a fellow emergency manager developed a program called the 15 ’til 50 Mass Casualty Incident Response Program, which could be used in a situation such as a major earthquake. “It uses a planned deployment of staff, supplies and equipment to achieve fully functional triage and treatment areas in 15 minutes or less

PETS

Continued from page 7

small cat or dog with you in the cabin for a fee, but it has to be planned well in advance because not all flights allow this,” Peters added. Many airlines have specific regulations when it comes to allowing animals on the flights, so the first step is to call the airline you plan on flying with to find out what those are, she said. If your pet is too big to fly in the cabin and must fly in the hold, your best bet is to ensure a direct flight when possible and to be sure to travel on the same flight as your pet, according to Peters. “Don’t forget to take the temperature into account and work with the airline to pick flights in the early morning or late evening in the

Castaic resident Bruce Thomas refills a 55-gallon drum with water monthly and ads a few drops of bleach to the water. He also keeps 10 gallons of gasoline for his three generators in his shed. PHOTO BY DAN WATSON / THE SIGNAL

to manage 50 patients or more,” Stone said. “All levels of hospital staff are trained in their roles minimizing the initial chaos accompanying an MCI.” “Our reality changes everyday, but our commitment to preparedness is a constant reality for Henry Mayo and our wonderful community,” Stone added. summer months, even if they’re more expensive,” she said.

During the trip

When traveling, try to keep your pet’s routine as normal as possible, especially their eating habits, Anderson said. You should also stop frequently to give your pet plenty of breaks to stretch their legs and go to the bathroom, Peters said. When possible, it’s also a good idea to bring along a buddy to help care for your pet, so you can get food or use the bathroom yourself while knowing someone is keeping an eye on them, Peters added. Don’t forget, it’s too hot out to leave your pets in the car as they, too, suffer from heatstroke in as little as six minutes, Belton said. Anderson suggests leaving the air conditioning on if you absolutely must leave them in the car.

Families

Nuzzi said there are a number of ways families should be prepared for an earthquake, with the first steps being having a kit prepared and making your home earthquake-resilient. “Reduce hazards in every room,” she said. “You want to think about what could be a problem here, how could I get injured and reduce that.” Nuzzi, when she talks to people about being prepared for earthquakes, will touch on the idea of cascading danger: Something that may seem like a singular issue, but could turn into a multitude of problems. For instance, she said, televisions falling down can not only land on someone, but send glass everywhere. If candles are in your home, those can cause a fire.

Brendie Heter, a Santa Clarita mother of three young boys who also teaches emergency preparedness, says she’s taken information from the city and other emergency systems and put them into practice with her children. “We do a drill with the boys called ‘Rabbits in a Hole,’” said Heter, explaining a system that teaches her young children the importance of protecting their body and head during an earthquake. “It’s not meant to be scary, because we don’t want them to be afraid; we want them to be prepared.” Not only does she teach her sons how to protect themselves, but Heter has also taught them where to go, or what they’re supposed to do depending on where they are in certain places in their house. Additionally, they know where to get their emergency backpacks that not only have a flashlight and activity for them — like a toy or crayons — but where the food and emergency supplies are. “I’ve got dehydrated milk and eggs, pasta, some cans of tomatoes, pancake mix, a propane stove, pot and pans for boiling water, gatorade powder and water,” said Heter. “I know some people go extra crazy on the food that they’re not going to eat, and when I’m teaching, I tell people it’s a really stressful situation so you have to figure out how to distress the situation.” Heter said that the more prepared parents are, and have already planned out how to keep themselves and their children safe and as comfortable as possible in a situation, the calmer everyone will be. “We gotta do it, because it’s just a way of life,” said Nuzzi. “Just like the way you learn to swim, you need to learn about various types of disasters.”

For more information:

For more information on how to prepare you and your family for an emergency, the The City of Santa Clarita provides the Community Emergency Response Training (CERT) program. It is designed to help families, neighborhoods, schools and businesses prepare for effective disaster/emergency response through training and preplanning. The next CERT program for fall session begins Sept. 7, and occurs on three consecutive Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. For more information on how to register, visit www.santa-clarita.com/city-hall/ departments/recreation-community-services-and-open-space/ emergency-management/cert-program

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Opinion

J U LY 21, 2019

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

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

OURVIEWS

Seeing the Bigger Picture What We Need in Society: on City’s Infrastructure Issuing a Call to Courage By David Hegg

By The Signal Editorial Board

ocal infrastructure decisions can be tough. Take, for example, the debate over the Wiley Canyon bridge. Back in the early 1990s, when the city of Santa Clarita was in its infancy, one of the new City Council’s early dilemmas was whether to approve construction of a bridge connecting the Circle J neighborhood to Wiley Canyon Road via a bridge crossing over what was then known as San Fernando Road — now Railroad Avenue. It was, at the time, a divisive issue. On one side were the area residents who saw the new bridge as a valuable new access route that would improve emergency response times and traffic flow. On the other hand were Circle J residents who believed the new bridge would bring unwanted traffic to their neighborhood. The council approved the bridge. And it was built. And all these years later, it’s a pretty good bet that some of the very people who objected to it drive on it routinely. Fast forward to 2019, and we have a similar issue with the Dockweiler Drive extension.

What’s different at this point is the council has already approved the new road connection in concept. What’s come before the council in 2019 are the details — awarding of design contracts and so forth. But there remain those who oppose it. Now, as with the Wiley Canyon bridge, we have residents who understandably fear the impacts the new connection will have on their neighborhood. This time it’s Placerita Canyon, a rural enclave whose main road, Placerita Canyon Road, is gated at one end after the canyon’s homeowners decided to close off to public access from its south end in the 1990s. The new Dockweiler extension would run roughly parallel to Placerita Canyon Road, connecting to Arch Street and then 13th Street in Newhall — ironically, providing a connection that has been lacking since the winding Placerita Canyon Road was closed by homeowners. See OUR VIEW, page 42

ong before Dorothy and the Cowardly Lion walked the yellow brick road, society has understood the absolute necessity of courage. This essential virtue speaks to the willingness to stand firm against opposition, and even advance in the name of all that is good and right. Courage is that strength of character that fights compromise while never underestimating the necessity of compassion. Courage is not the absence of fear, but rather the overwhelming sense of right that channels fear into positive action, toward the necessary goal. And, we must realize that, ultimately, courage is the fruit of a radical commitment to all that is right and good, and especially, to truth. And yet, even the most courageous of us can weaken in the face of the consequences of courageous action. Often, we believe that courageous action, taken in defense of the truth, may so damage relationship that the best plan is just to “go along to get along.” But all too often, failure to act courageously

exacerbates the underlying problem, and takes us down a path where good options become fewer and fewer. We see this in so many areas of life. The failure to take courageous action politically can allow a state or nation to meander deeper and deeper into chaos and debt that there no longer appear to be any workable solutions. Hesitancy in acting courageously in parenting when our children are young may very well foster a situation in their teen years where we feel absolutely powerless to either protect or persuade them. And certainly in business, those unwilling to act courageously to bring needed change will find themselves falling further and further behind in market share and financial viability. So, if courageous action at the right time is so important in life, why is it that we often decide to deny, postpone, or conveniently forget to deal with those challenges that we all know demand our immediate and courageous attention? There are many answers to that See HEGG, page 41

READERLETTERS

A Tale of Two Champions As the U.S. women’s soccer team now flaunts their insufferable narcissism and vulgarity, the very people who condemn this behavior in President Trump now hypocritically approve, if it advances their hatred for Trump. It’s been painful to watch these women exploit their moment of glory to advance their political ideology. They are embarrassing their country and degrading themselves. In contrast, I’m reminded of the 1980 men’s Olympic hockey team, which is arguably the greatest sports victory in American history.

In 1980, coach Herb Brooks believed the USA name on the front of their jersey was more important than the name on the back. Today, Megan Rapinoe thinks the World Cup was all about her. In 1980, the U.S. hockey team fielded the best players to help them win the gold medal. Today, Jaelene Hinkle is considered one of the world’s best players at her position but she wasn’t chosen for the women’s soccer team. Coincidentally, she was the only player who refused to wear the rainbow flag on her uniform. In 1980, Jim Craig inspired the nation as he proudly draped the American flag over his shoul-

der. Today, we watched Allie Long toss the flag to the ground to mug for the cameras. In 1980, the U.S. hockey team went to the White House, even for disastrous Jimmy Carter. Today when asked about a White House visit for the soccer team, captain Megan Rapinoe responded, “I'm not going to the f---ing White House.” In 1980, the U.S. hockey team brought all Americans together. Today, the women’s soccer team has only unified those who agree with their politics of hate and resistance. Thankfully their 15 minutes of fame will soon be See LETTERS, page 42

J U LY 21, 2019

S U N D AY S I G N A L · 41

Opinion

Contact: Tim Whyte, Signal Editor Phone: 661-287-5591 | Email: letters@signalscv.com Mail: 26330 Diamond Place, Suite 100, Santa Clarita, CA 91350

BLACK&WHYTE

D R AW I N G CO N C LU S I O N S R O B E R T A R I A I L

Immigration: Balancing Compassion vs. Priorities By Tim Whyte Signal Editor

s a part-time journalism instructor at Cal State Northridge for the past 20-plus years, one of my all-time favorite students was a bright and talented young man, who was inquisitive, creative and eager to learn, and had a good sense of humor. One semester, he took one of my classes and by some luck of the draw he was the only male student in the class. Ever the gentleman, there would be times when I’d unlock the door before class and he would stand and hold the door open for every single one of his female classmates. He was the nicest kid, and a solid writer who had a great flair for visual storytelling and video editing. He was such a good guy and I knew he had all the tools to succeed. He was also an undocumented immigrant. His parents brought him here as a child, so he didn’t willfully cross the border illegally. He went to American schools, through high school and college, and for all intents and purposes, he was as American as any of us except for his immigration status. Today, when I contemplate the difficult and contentious issue of illegal immigration, and how our governments should best deal with it, I find myself conflicted. I know that, among those here illegally, are many great kids like my former student who will make positive contributions to our country and, perhaps, one day, become citizens. I also know that, especially in California, many of those in power are falling all over themselves to prioritize treatment of illegal immigrants ahead of legal immigrants and U.S. citizens. And that’s wrong. The latest case in point is the California budget signed by Gov. Gavin

Newsom. In their zeal to roll out the red carpet for people who came here illegally, Newsom and the Democrat supermajority in Sacramento are providing taxpayer-funded health care to low-income illegal immigrants ages 19-25. To the tune of $98 million. In one year. And how are they paying for it? By taxing the California citizens who can least afford an additional tax. Those who “choose” not to have health insurance — i.e., those who can’t afford it — will pay an extra state tax, a la the original Obamacare, and the proceeds will go to provide free health care for as many as 138,000 illegal immigrants, not all of whom were brought here as children. It’s easy to exercise compassionate spending when it’s someone else’s dime, isn’t it? Never mind the more cynical motive of securing a future voter base. Add to this the fact that California offers state-based college financial aid to illegal immigrants, including grants, need-based scholarships, loans and work-study. The loans, in-state tuition and workstudy — I really have no problem with those things. Work your way through and pay interest like the rest of us. It’s the grants and scholarships that rankle, because that’s a whole lot of your tax money earmarked for people who aren’t in the country legally. And, while former Gov. Jerry Brown assured us that it was a “separate pot” of money, every state tax dollar that goes to fund the college education of a student who came here illegally is a dollar that doesn’t fund the education of a California citizen or legal immigrant who also needs the help, and will face a See WHYTE, page 42

HEGG

Continued from page 40

question, but chief among them is our preference to put personal, short-term well-being above long-term success when such long-term thinking will demand immediate pain. Simply put, we too often live for today hoping that tomorrow will somehow turn out right. We are shortsighted and have taught ourselves to believe that we can choose the easy path today and find that it somehow leads to a better tomorrow. The problem is that we are wrong. Even more, most likely the reason we need to take courageous, even painful action today is because we took the easy path yesterday. Of course, increasingly we are a society that pursues the easy, convenient, and selfish choice because we really don’t know which paths to pursue in the first place. In many arenas we have lost our moral and spiritual compass. It is increasingly hard to find someone who knows the value of values, the protection of morality, or the benefit of charting a life course guided by integrity, generosity, morality, service to mankind and a righteous standing before Almighty God. Without an overriding worldview that undergirds a noble purpose in life, it will be impossible to gain the convictions of right and wrong from which a determined courage can arise. Unless we know what kind of children we want to raise, we will not act

to correct their course until it is too late. Unless we know what kind of state and nation we want to be, we’ll opt for daily comfort and convenience. And unless we know what kind of people we want to be and come to understand that building character demands the hard work of daily introspection and focus on the nobility of values, we will never be courageous in opposing destructive ideas and actions. We will roll over in the face of societal decay and compromise as long as they bring with them a feeling of personal comfort, while stroking our sense of independence and self-esteem. As long as the individual is seen as more important than the community, pleasure as sovereign and pain as the enemy, there will be no incentive to become a courageous people. And that will be tragic. America’s history is that of courageous individuals determining that the building of a noble, virtuous society was worth the pain of personal sacrifice. We still see that in certain people and places, but not as much as we need. It is time to take stock in the welfare of our society, to be courageous is doing the right thing despite the pain it may bring. It is time for courage, so that our children will have some good options when it comes time for them to act. David Hegg is senior pastor of Grace Baptist Church and a Santa Clarita resident.“Ethically Speaking” appears Sundays.

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Opinion

WHYTE

Continued from page 41

mountain of student loan debt when it’s all said and done. Can you afford to pay 100 percent of your kids’ education? Likely not. A grant or a scholarship could make a big difference, but in California, your odds of getting that kind of help are diminished because it’s also going to undocumented students. Meanwhile, California and many of its cities are downright obstructing the federal government’s ability to enforce immigration laws, even if the immigrants in question happen to be violent felons who have directly disobeyed a court order to leave. I can’t exactly relate to the plight of the illegal immigrants who have fled violence and abject poverty in their home countries. I have not walked in their shoes and I know many of their stories are downright heartbreaking.

OUR VIEW

Continued from page 40

This new road, though, will be no meandering country road. It will be a pretty straight shot from Dockweiler to Arch and 13th, providing an alternative from Sierra Highway to Newhall and Railroad Avenue. And there’s this to add to the mix: The Master’s University, located in Placerita Canyon, would then connect to the new Dockweiler extension,

But my perspective on immigration is also framed by this: Both of my parents are immigrants, and they came here legally. It was the 1960s, and they came from Canada. (Yeah, I know. They had to learn how to speak American, eh?) My parents and my Mom’s entire family jumped through every hoop they needed to jump through. My grandfather came first, got a job and saved up enough money to bring my grandmother and their five kids to Southern California. My dad followed soon after that. (It’s a cute story of young love, but I digress.) They all had to go through background checks, medical exams, including chest x-rays, and government red tape, the whole nine yards. They got green cards, which they had to carry and report to the government annually. My parents both became proud naturalized citizens and they hold as much respect for “The Star Spangled Banner” as they ever did for “Oh Canada.”

When I came along, I was the first U.S.-born kid in my immediate family. I never endured the hardships of those who traipse through the desert seeking a better life, but I still have greater regard for those who play by the rules rather than coming across the border surreptitiously and then expecting entitlements for themselves and their children, on our taxpayers’ dime. Then I think of the good kids, like my former favorite student and others like him who have attended my classes and worked hard to better their opportunities for a good life. It’s not an easy thing to balance, but at the core I believe our tax dollars should take care of legal residents first, particularly in areas like health care and higher education. It’s galling to know that California citizens who can’t afford those things — including many immigrants who came here legally — are footing the bill and shouldering debt while Sacramento uses many millions of our tax dollars to bestow illegal immigrants with free

health care and free money for college. The priorities just seem backward. It’s not because I hold ill will for those kids who are here only due to the fact that their parents brought them — not those kids’ fault, and I think helping them to some extent, such as offering in-state tuition, loans and work-study, is reasonable. It’s because there ought to be a hierarchy of spending priorities that puts citizens and legal immigrants first before those whose families didn’t play by the rules. I have lost track of that student who held the door open for all of his classmates — it’s been a number of years now — but last I’d heard he had graduated from college and launched his journalism career, which I can only assume will be an accomplished one. I hope so.

improving access to the campus and perhaps facilitating its future growth, It’s easy to understand why Placerita Canyon residents would be skeptical. And, Placerita Canyon is a unique, rural neighborhood whose character should be preserved. Similarly, some residents of the newer developments on the existing stretch of Dockweiler are worried about additional traffic. Some of the project’s opponents, too, have noted that a member of the City Council could somehow benefit from

the Dockweiler project: Councilwoman Laurene Weste owns property in the area. Due to that, as she is required to by law, she has recused herself from the council’s decisions on the project. In any case, the city has to look at the whole picture. This isn’t to say the opponents’ concerns should be dismissed out of hand — they should be considered and accommodated to the extent possible without leaving the city hamstrung. Hopefully, what emerges from the council’s latest decision — authorizing

design work to proceed — will result in a new local connection that will benefit the greatest number of local residents and motorists, without causing undue impacts on the neighborhoods in that specific part of the city. Just as it did with the Wiley Canyon bridge, the city is obligated to balance those very localized concerns with the reality that the city has grown and changed, and we need more ways to get around this town, not fewer.

LETTERS

Continued from page 40

mercifully over, and soccer will go back to an athletic competition for people who love sports. Gil Mertz, Thousand Oaks

Hotel Doesn’t Fit Sand Canyon As a participant in the tour of the proposed Sand Canyon Country Club, I disagree with the reader letter from James Trabucco on June 30. Mr. Trabucco lives outside Sand Canyon and cannot fairly assess the negative impact on our lifestyle that the proposed hotel will bring. Many of us have horse

ranches and have lived here for decades. We do not want the quality of our community to be changed by the intrusion of a large commercial project. The purpose of our Sand Canyon Special Standards are to “maintain, preserve and enhance the rural and equestrian character of Sand Canyon.” We like the peaceful atmosphere and the current residential large lot zoning. The General Plan envisioned that Santa Clarita would have unique neighborhoods, some having special standards to preserve their historic flavor. The proposed hotel is definitely incompatible with the rural Sand Canyon community. As a real estate broker for over 40 years, I can state that homebuyers who choose to live in nice residential areas would not buy a home in an area

Tim Whyte is editor of The Signal. His column appears Sundays. On Twitter: @TimWhyte.

of mixed uses. Homes in the Valencia Master Plan maintain their value because commercial properties are separated from residential communities. A hotel brings noise at all hours, unwelcome traffic, and transient activities. The planned Sand Canyon hotel would make the homes nearby less desirable and harder to sell. We are opposed to a hotel that would damage our beautiful neighborhood. Diane Wilson, Canyon Country Submit a Letter to the Editor

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

J U LY 21, 2019

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 4 3

THE VILLAGE IDIOT

Casual Friday has taken over the whole week By Jim Mullen Signal Contributing Writer

t used to be that convenience stores at popular summer beaches had signs on the front door that read “No shirt, no shoes, no entry.” It was right next to the sign that read “Bathroom for customers only.” Now the sign on the door says, “No shirt, no shoes, no problem.” They still won’t let you use the bathroom unless you buy something. Some things never change. But some things do. The “No shirt, no shoes, no problem” sign is now on the door of my stockbroker’s office. It doesn’t say anything about the bathroom policy. I don’t know that I want a man not wearing a shirt or shoes managing my money. What if he’s not doing it because it makes him feel comfortable, but because he can’t afford a shirt and shoes? Our definition of what is casual and what is not seems to be on a sliding scale. A few years ago, there was a brouhaha at the White House because some young women went on the tour of the historic building wearing flip-flops. Too casual? Well, summer in D.C. is like being in a sauna — without all the health benefits. You feel sticky and smelly at 6 a.m., and that’s the coolest you’re going to feel all day. It’s not sightseeing, it’s sweatseeing. And at least the White House tourists had some kind of footwear. I wish the people who sat next to me on my last plane trip were wearing something on their feet. I’ve got to get a raise. I can’t fly coach anymore. I long for the chic of premium economy class, where the better people sit. They still take off their shoes, but they use Odor Eaters. It must be like heaven up there. I can’t even imagine what it’s like in first class, where the flight attendants give passengers foot massages with fragrant oils and the inflight audio is “Angels Singing.” I’m not a snob — I just grew up in a different time, a time before Casual Friday. In the early ‘60s, you would

wear your best clothes to get on an airplane, to go to another country, to go to church, to go to any restaurant that wasn’t a cup-o’-joe diner. In the late ‘50s, college men wore camel hair blazers, white shirts and skinny ties, and that was considered pretty casual. You certainly wouldn’t wear something that casual when you got out of college to work at an office. In grade school, we had to wear a uniform shirt and a tie. And that was in the first grade. Jeans and T-shirts were for yard work and play only; you’d only see people wearing sweatpants at athletic events. To go to the grocery store in sweatpants and a T-shirt was unthinkable. Even Elvis and the Beatles wore suits in the early days. Show-business suits, but still, not just random stuff they had pulled from the closet. They were always natty dressers, and people imitated their haircuts and clothes as they changed over the years. Fashion rarely comes from the pages of glossy, expensive high-fashion magazines. People tend to wear what the people they admire are wearing. Pop stars, sports stars, movie stars and television stars are where many trends start. Vogue has never done a cover with people sporting green-and-purple hair, nose rings and a sleeve of tattoos, and yet it’s an undeniable trend. If you don’t start seeing Megan Rapinoe haircuts within a week, I’d be surprised. I’ve never seen a man wearing cargo shorts on the cover of Esquire, but every other man on my plane was wearing them. So where did casual Monday through Friday come from? The internet, because it allows you to work at home in your pajamas? Was it seeing Steve Jobs give keynote addresses wearing jeans and a $200 black mock turtleneck? No, I think it’s that our status symbols have changed. Wearing “business clothes” means “I have to wear this outfit for some reason.” Being casual says, “I can get away with this for some reason.” Me? I have to wear these pajamas. They make me. Contact Jim Mullen at mullen.jim@ gmail.com.

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