Sunday Signal Sept. 23, 2018 by Signal

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S E P T E M B E R 23, 2018

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S U N D AYS I G N A L · 5

SEPTEMBER 23, 2018

TABLE OF CONTENTS NEWS FEATURES

Stop, stroll and enjoy at Bridgeport Marketplace Cell service in the Santa Clarita Valley: Help is on the way Dealing with stress in the workplace

WORKPLACE STRESS

Quitting time: what’s behind the latest employment trend

NEWS OF THE WEEK

Saugus woman accused of stealing from Girl Scouts, cancer patients • Deputies seek man trying to lure teen • City Council candidates discuss economy • SCV teens hosting fundraiser with painting • Kidnapping attempt leads to manhunt

CITY MANAGER

The City of Santa Clarita appreciates your input

SPORTS 15 Our Foothill League football preview

REAL ESTATE

FALL BREAK IN PISMO

‘Right pricing’ in today’s market

OPINION

Our View, David Hegg, Tim Whyte

SCV CALENDAR TIME RANGER KIDS & FAMILY

23 24 25

Pismo, a perfect fall getaway Donna’s Day: fun with foam creatures and decor

THINGS TO DO

Fall festivals: chalk, oranges, avocados, music and more

SCHOOLS

PROFILE: DIANNE CRAWFORD

School menus • Cub Scouts host Hart Park barbecue

YOUR HOME

Plumbing 101 : Saving money with maintenance

FOOD

Winning back weeknight cooking recipes Restaurant review: My Hot Pot

PERSONALITY PROFILE

STAFF

A storyline fit for the movies

HEALTH & FITNESS

Pain relievers and possible side effects Not always good to be gluten-free

GARDENING A highlight on hydroponics • Your eco-friendly lawn cleanup

SENIORS

Beyond the savings plan • The benefits of being grandparents

BRAIN GAMES

On the cover: PHOTO BY DAN WATSON

SUNDAY SIGNAL

SignalSCV.com Richard Budman Perry Smith Tim Whyte Brad Lanfranco Doña Uhrig Trish Galloway Joel Z. Rosario

Publisher Sunday Signal Editor Signal Editor Advertising Director Production Manager Graphic Designer Graphic Designer

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S E P T E M B E R 23, 2018

S C V F E AT U R E

Maintaining paradise Company works hard to keep the ecosystem at Bridgeport By Marina Anderson Signal Staff Writer

ondering what to do this weekend? If you like being around water, and enjoying nature like ducks and turtles, there’s a place you can enjoy without having to drive outside of Valencia. And there’s a good chance you’ve even driven right by it. At the corner

of Newhall Ranch Road and McBean Parkway, you'll notice the iconic sculpture of birds in flight against a backdrop of boat sails that appear to float in water. It's Bridgeport Marketplace. There isn't just a small pond behind the artwork, there's a large manmade oasis ... an entire lake filled with more than 1 million gallons of water, complete with birds and wildlife — including ducks, turtles, fish, white heron, mini waterfalls, bridges and meandering walkways throughout the scenic 31,300-square-foot retreat. For many residents, Below: Valerie Qiao, 7, left, and sister Natalie, 10, toss Cheerios to the ducks at the Bridgeport Marketplace in Valencia. PHOTOS BY DAN WATSON

it's a favorite getaway to visit on a regular basis. A perfect place for a date night, lunch, dinner, family outings or to just to hang out and meditate on a bench overlooking the tranquil landscape. I'd often take my mom to one of the restaurants located in the marketplace and we'd sit outside afterward sharing a snack with the ducks and have a quackin' good time. Those will always remain one of the most precious times we'd share together in her later years ... overlooking the water, listening to some soft jazz playing over the marketplace music system and ahhhhh ... peaceful. At night, a sea of string and lamp lights illuminate the area transforming it into a cozy spot to stroll alongside the lush park-like grounds. It's also a place to take visitors from out of town like I did recently. My friends were delighted to interact with the variety of ducks

and turtles, bringing out a bit of the “inner kid” again. Although it seems like a simple park, this oasis is a lot more complicated than it looks. Concerned with the type of food to feed the animals (after watching people toss in pizza and bread, which is harmful to the wildlife), I decided to call the marketplace management office to learn a little more about the operation. It was quite an education, learning about the work and care behind the scenes to maintain such a lovely environment. What was the reason for the lake to begin with? Dale Donohoe, one of the owners of the marketplace and CEO of Intertex, the company that built the property in 2007, explains, “We wanted a lake to match the development across the street and to set Bridgeport Marketplace apart from all other shopping centers in town. We installed public art (sails & birds) to enhance the ambiance and atmosphere of an aquatic environment.” Aware of the growing amount of wildlife population at the lake, Intertex has taken great lengths to protect the wildlife and preserve the area, making it enjoyable for all ages to experience. They even hired a scuba diver to clean the sludge (read: duck droppings) from the bottom of the lake by hand with a vacuum in order to protect the turtles and fish. The regular method, draining the entire lake, would empty all the small critters out, too, sending them literally down the river. It’s not an

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S C V F E AT U R E

Right: Missy McKown and daughter, one-year-old Emma feed the ducks Cheerios at the Bridgeport Marketplace in Valencia. Below right: A White Egret wades into the water at the lake at the Bridgeport Marketplace in Valencia. Bottom right: A turtle peeks it's head out of the lake waiting to be fed Cheerios at the Bridgeport Marketplace in Valencia. PHOTOS BY DAN WATSON

Emma has her picture taken as the ducks wait for more Cheerios below.

inexpensive endeavor either, but the company wanted to ensure the animals would be safe. Why the Cheerios/Trader Joe's O's type cereal in the vending machines? As Chris Hailstone, of Intertex, explains, “Our office attempted fowl food with seeds and grain for non-migratory birds and wildlife, but such things sink in the water. We encourage people to bring proper food, but the cereal offered is a convenience for those already there. It has vitamins and minerals not found in bread alone.” Recently, these vending machines were stolen but will be replaced, according to officials. From researching online and speaking to a couple of veterinary offices, bread is made with grain and yeast, which are not healthy for the animals (except for oats) and can become tainted on the ground, accelerating the spread of disease for the ducks. Grain (also contained in cereal) isn’t recommended to feed ducks either, but plain oats are OK. An average duck's life span is nine years. Feeding them the wrong food like bread reduces their longevity to

four years. The proper food includes: oats, birdseed, canned, fresh or frozen corn, cracked corn, duck feed pellets (you can buy at pet stores or online), lettuce, other greens (tear them into small pieces because they can't do it in order to eat it), frozen peas, tomatoes, watermelon and lettuce. In case you're wondering about the turtles and what they eat... I'm told they feed off of what's in the lake. It appears most turtles at the marketplace are omnivores — meaning they eat meaty foods and green plants. Meaty does not mean a hamburger and french fries — it’s insects, small worms, snails, small fish, and even dead marine animals. Protein is very important for young wild turtles to grow. When they're young, they are more carnivorous, but as they get older, they tend to become more herbivore (veggies, green foods ... algae, stems, leaves, fruits ...). It differs between species. Lettuce is great for turtles, too. So, bring proper food for the ducks and turtles and have fun helping make a lot of the critters at Bridgeport Marketplace healthy and happy. 

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S C V F E AT U R E

Cell towers to bring signal to Santa Clarita Valley, where terrain makes it difficult By Crystal Duan Signal Staff Writer

ith three new cell towers approved and on the way, there’s hope for better cell reception for those struggling with dropped calls. But Santa Clarita’s topography creates some inherent challenges for the area for the engineers working to keep the SCV connected, and as the demand for more phones grows, so likely will the need for more towers, according to representatives for wireless service providers. Three cell towers, meant to bring better signal quality throughout Santa Clarita, remain in construction limbo until their respective providers bring forth permits for approval, city officials said. The city of Santa Clarita Planning Commission approved cell service

towers for AT&T and Verizon Wireless in August and April, respectively, but have yet to receive permits for the projects from the providers, which is the next step before a construction timeline can be set, said Senior City Planner James Chow. “Each of the carriers are responsible for moving those permits forward, and ultimately moving the construction process forward,” Chow said Monday. The topography of Santa Clarita necessitates more facilities due to the hilly terrain, said Verizon Wireless spokeswoman Heidi Flato. The “line of sight” in the Santa Clarita Valley is much more difficult than in flatter, more open areas, meaning that radio signals traveling from cell site to cell site require more facilities to cover a broad, mountainous area. “When there is hilly terrain, you typically need more cell sites to cov-

er the area because the topography can interfere with the signal,” she said. “There are certain line-of-site requirements to provide ubiquitous network coverage (in Santa Clarita). “As more people are cutting the cords with home phones and relying solely on wireless telecommunications, areas need more reliable network infrastructure. That’s required to provide robust coverage and to meet capacity to keep people connected when and where they need it most.” Each cell tower added to Santa Clarita can boost the signal significantly, due to the gaps in coverage between being more noticeable, Flato said. Radio signals transmit easier on flat areas, making an area such as the Santa Clarita Valley a unique challenge. The newest tower approved in August, is an AT&T tower set for a city-owned location, west of the

South Fork Trail and east of Alicante Drive, on an existing Southern California Edison lattice tower at 48 feet, according to city documents. The Verizon tower, approved in April, will be located on the southern portion of the private Sanctuary Church property, at 26460 Friendly Valley Parkway, near the intersection of Friendly Valley Parkway and Sierra Highway. The 360-square-foot facility will include 12 panel antennas, 18 remote radio units, one GPS antenna, one stand-by generator and two equipment cabinets, while standing 47 feet tall. The other of the AT&T towers, approved in April, is on property that is city-controlled in Canyon Country Park, at 17615 Soledad Canyon Road. It is slated to be a 12-footwide by 12-foot-long, 42-foot-tall two-faced clock tower that will have 12 antennas, and is said by providers See TOWERS, page 13

IN SANTA CLARITA, AN ESTIMATED 65 TO 70 WIRELESS COMMUNICATIONS FACILITIES HAVE BEEN BUILT BY CELLULAR COMPANIES OPERATING IN THE VALLEY.

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LOCALNEWS

Saugus woman arrested Detectives say she embezzled over $88,000 from Girl Scouts, cancer treatment center By Jim Holt Signal Senior Staff Writer

A Saugus woman was arrested on suspicion of grand theft Monday and accused of stealing more than $88,000 Cascione from a cancer treatment center and Girl Scouts. Patricia Cascione, 52, was arrested by detectives with the Los Angeles County Sheriff ’s Department Fraud & Cyber Crimes Bureau on suspicion of grand theft and theft by false pretense. After she was arrested, detectives served a search warrant at the Cascione home, where they recovered additional evidence, sheriff ’s Deputy Marvin Crowder wrote in a news release issued Tuesday. Over the past 20 years, Cascione was entrusted as the treasurer for multiple Girl Scouts of the USA troops in addition to a local Girl Scouts service unit in Santa Clarita, he wrote.

Fraud & Cyber Crimes Bureau detectives became aware of potential fraudulent activity and initiated a criminal investigation. It is alleged that during the past five years, Cascione embezzled more than $58,000 from several Girl Scout troops and service unit bank accounts over which she had control. During the investigation, detectives also determined Cascione, while chief financial officer of the Beverly Hills Cancer Center, committed theft by false pretense of more than $30,000. The search warrant and arrest are the culmination of a 15-month investigation. Cascione was also responsible for fundraising for numerous other organizations in the Santa Clarita Valley. Investigators believe there may be other victims and are asking anyone with questions or information to contact the Sheriff ’s Department Fraud & Cyber Crimes Bureau, Sgt. David Chambers at 661-471-1534. 

Deputies seek man trying to lure teen By Jim Holt Signal Senior Staff Writer

Reports of a man trying to lure a teenage girl into a van in Canyon Country on Monday night prompted a warning to parents by school officials and a response by local sheriff ’s deputies. The incident reportedly took place about 9 p.m. near the intersection of Delight Street and Esterbrook Avenue, two blocks north of Sierra Vista Junior High School. “We took report of a man annoying and molesting a girl,” Deputy Josh Stamsek of the Santa Clarita Valley Sheriff ’s Station said Tuesday, describing details about the incident as vague. “The man apparently asked the girl if she wanted a ride,” he said. “She told him ‘no’ twice.” Deputies who searched the area failed to find the van or the suspect. Subsequently, Sierra Vista Principal Carolyn Hoffman issued an email warning to parents of students at the school about the incident.

Her message reminded “all parents and students of the importance of walking to and from school in groups and to be mindful of your surroundings. “We received information tonight, that after school, a man in a black van with front and back windows and long windows on the sides attempted to lure a student,” she wrote. “The van had red paint markings on the side. The man driving the van was described as being dressed all in black with a black hoodie and a black hat turned backward. It was reported that he was wearing a black bandana over his mouth. He had dread-like hair.” The Hoffman message was then picked up by Canyon High School Principal Shellie Holcombe who, in turn, alerted parents of her students. “Last night, a safety concern was reported to Sierra Vista at 9 p.m. I have provided Hoffman’s message to ensure Canyon families are aware of the situation,” she prefaced the Hoffman warning. 

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S E P T E M B E R 23, 2018

LOCALNEWS

Hopefuls tackle economy Gibbs

Smith

By Tammy Murga Signal Staff Writer

(and) instead be at home staring at our children,” he said.

A dozen candidates for Santa Clarita City Council were asked for their take on economic development at the Valley Industry Association’s forum this week. Each candidate was challenged on how they saw the need to balance economic growth and the benefits it would bring against issues such as traffic and congestion. “There is sometimes frustration by residents over growth and traffic,” said forum moderator Ed Masterson, chairman of the VIA board. “From a business point of view, growth equates to economic growth. How as a council member would you, or have you if you were a council member, balance those competing interests?” Each of the candidates had one minute to answer.

Brett Haddock

TimBen Boydston Trautman

Weste

Wieczorek

Boydston said he would like to see more commercial and industrial space built because it brings higher-paying jobs. “Never say no to commercial and industrial space and make sure that your housing density is low and that way reduce the number of cars and going over the hill because you can work here,” he said.

Ken Dean Dean believes in a business-friendly city. He would like to see more upscale businesses, but he’s aware that there’s a “tremendous problem with traffic and congestion” and thinks the issue needs to be one of the first addressed, he said. “We need to look at them both rather than one or the other,” he said.

Jason Gibbs

Varma

City Council candidates discuss economic development during forum

Gibbs believes both development and traffic, inevitably, go hand-in-hand. He would like to see road projects, such as Via Princessa, finished, and Magic Mountain Parkway stretch across the valley to reduce congestion. “If we bring that development with us we will get people off the roads, and people like me won’t have to be sitting in traffic staring at a windshield —

Haddock said the solution is to bring as much business to Santa Clarita as possible “so that people have to go to neither direction for work.” He also added that there need to be more distribution centers, with companies like Amazon, to create a more self-sustained community and avoid having to commute.

Marsha McLean

increase in bus ridership by offering “free, subsidized fares for seniors, students and disabled individuals.”

Diane Trautman Trautman said there needs to be a balance, with a focus on housing and additional transportation options. “We have to have housing so people can live near where they work and ... have jobs so people can work here and not have to commute,” she said. “We need other options for transportation ... like micro-transit within the city to get people where they need to be.”

McLean said traffic is something she knows well and has worked on while on the council. While she said she recognizes that people are alarmed about the traffic, McLean said, “You need a strong business community and strong economic growth in order to be able to pay and help pay for the new roads that we need.”

Sankalp Varma

Bill Miranda

Laurene Weste

Miranda said the city’s implementation of technology, such as its Traffic Operation Center, which allows operators to control the flow of traffic at all intersections, is one technique to treat traffic. “I don’t know how we can get better than that, but we will get better than that,” he said.

Sandra Nichols Nichols said that, as someone who is disabled, she no longer drives and finds that there is a lack of advocacy for public transportation. To lessen road congestion, “We need to advocate more people taking the municipal buses... that people carpool in their community instead of each individual driving.” She would also like to see more high-paying jobs.

Logan Smith Smith believes housing, jobs and traffic are all interconnected. He thinks the number of commutes can lessen if there are more good, mortgage-paying jobs, such as green jobs created through private partnerships. To cut traffic, he would like to see an

Boydston

Dean

Varma said he would like to see a monorail system connecting all Santa Clarita Valley areas. As a rideshare driver, Varma said he has heard from several customers that there is “a big need for real nightlife” and “a safe, reliable place for people to get medical marijuana.”

Weste recognized that Santa Clarita has strong economic growth and she looks forward to continuing the work she has done so far, including the Cross Valley Connector, a network of roadways that opened more than 10 years ago. “How do we do that? We have to have good housing, affordable housing, highend housing and you got to build your city’s master-plan highways,” she said.

Haddock

McLean

Paul Wieczorek Wieczorek said he believes in zero growth as Santa Clarita is overcrowded — and this is the third election he has run with the same campaign platform, he said. “We are too far out here in Santa Clarita,” he said. “We don’t have enough places to build roads here to make (congestion) go away. We have a lot of (business) vacancies out there. I would rather see that than more building.” The remaining candidates Cherry Ortega, an investor and entrepreneur; Sean Weber, a local businessperson; and Matthew Hargett, an emergency medical technician, did not attend the forum.

Miranda

Nichols

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S U N D AYS I G N A L · 11

Teens raise funds and paintbrushes By Michele Lutes Signal Staff Writer

The Bob Ross Project, founded by local teens Cassidy Bensko and Kayla Tomlin, is scheduled to host its second paint night fundraiser Sept. 29. The Bob Ross Project was founded in 2018 by Bensko, a sophomore at Valencia High School, and Tomlin, a senior at West Ranch High School. “We love the idea of relaxing and the time it takes to make something and that it may not be perfect,” Bensko said. The girls were inspired by artist Bob Ross, who was the host of the television show “The Joy of Painting” from 1983 to 1994, and a positivity icon. “The premise of Ross’ show and TV personality was to encourage a peaceful mind state and reinforce ideas of self-love and relaxation,” according to the group’s website. “We don’t make mistakes, just hap-

py little accidents,” Ross once said. Bensko and Tomlin hope to create an environment for a healthy mind, creative expression and some cool art, Bensko said. There is a mandatory entrance fee of $10 and all supplies are provided. The proceeds from the event will go to a charity that will be announced by the project, Bensko said. Their first paint night on June 29 raised $375 for The Trevor Project. The Trevor Project is the premier organization providing crisis intervention and suicide prevention services to LGBTQ teens and young adults. “We both had a connected to the LGBTQ+ community through our friends or family,” Bensko said. The paint night event is scheduled for Saturday, Sept. 29, at 23310 Cinema Drive in Valencia. For more information on the organization or to RSVP for the Sept. 29 event, go to www.pantsuit sisterhood.org/ or contact pantsuit sisterhood@gmail.com. 

LOCALNEWS

(Above) The Bob Ross Project was founded in 2018 to give young adults a place to be creative and clear their mind. (Left) Kayla Tomlin, left, and Cassidy Bensko founded the Bob Ross Project. COURTESY PHOTOS

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S E P T E M B E R 23, 2018

LOCALNEWS

Kidnapping attempt leads to manhunt By Austin Dave and Jim Holt Signal Staff Writers

A man suspected of trying to kidnap a toddler was arrested in Valencia on Monday morning, authorities confirmed. Shortly after 11:09 a.m., a 911 caller reported a man attempting to grab a child outside the Nordstrom Rack department store on the 27000 block of McBean Parkway, according to Lt. Doug Mohrhoff of the Santa Clarita Valley Sheriff ’s Station. George Starr, 60, was arrested on suspicion of attempted kidnapping, Deputy Josh Stamsek said. His bail was set at $100,000. The suspect apparently fled the scene in a tan 1970s van conversion RV after the child’s mother and witnesses intervened, Mohrhoff said. Several units, including a helicopter, were dispatched to the scene to locate the vehicle from both the ground and the air.

Deputies located the converted RV and set up a loose containment around the shopping center to prevent the suspect from escaping. At 11:38 a.m., deputies with rifles and service weapons converged on the vehicle parked in the Valencia Crossroads Shopping Center on the 24200 block of Valencia Boulevard, a few blocks from where the crime was reported. Within minutes, the man suspected of trying to grab the child was located and taken into custody. The man is expected to be charged with attempted kidnapping, Mohrhoff said. The lieutenant attributed finding the RV to “having a good description from the victim’s mother and witnesses” combined with having a helicopter and numerous field units from both the Santa Clarita and Castaic Parks Bureau stations saturating the area. “It was a good team effort to locate the suspect,” he said.

Santa Clarita Valley Sheriff’s Station deputies surround a Winnebago RV in Valencia on Monday. AUSTIN DAVE, STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER

Senior Center looks to reduce falls By Ryan Mancini Signal Staff Writer

The SCV Senior Center will be offering a falls-prevention health and wellness lecture Wednesday on Fall Prevention Awareness Day, officials said Friday. Presented at the Senior Center by physical therapist Gabe Perez of Henry Mayo Newhall Hospital, the lecture will help address how to make homes safe while also labeling precautions to avoid falling, said Robin

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Clough, volunteer and recreation coordinator with the Senior Center. The presentation begins at 1 p.m. Additionally, the lecture will provide information on the economic consequences that come from a fall, along with risk, health and environmental factors that might lead to a fall, Perez said Friday. “After a certain age, around 70, falls are the most common reason for hospital visits,” he said. There are three systems in the human body which keep a person bal-

anced as they walk, which are vision, touch and the inner ear, Perez said. Anything that affects multiple senses can really make a change to a person’s balance, he said. While he gives quarterly fall prevention classes at Henry Mayo, Perez said the Senior Center approached him to give a modified class to offer seniors. The center itself also works on promoting classes to help prevent falls, including tai chi, Clough said, a practice which Perez said is effective. Designated by the National Council on Aging, falls are a leading cause of fatal injury while also the most common cause of nonfatal hospital admissions among older adults, according to a release issued last Wednesday from the Senior Helpers of San Fernando Valley. “Every 11 seconds an older adult is treated in the emergency room for a fall, and every 19 minutes, an older adult dies from a fall,” reads the release. The release also provided steps from the National Council on Aging

to keep in mind when reducing the chances of a fall: Enroll in a good balance and exercise program to build balance, strength, and flexibility. Ask your health care professional for an assessment of your risk for falling. Review your medications with your doctor or pharmacist. Side effects can increase fall risk. Have annual hearing and vision checkups, and keep eyeglass prescriptions up-to-date. Keep your home safe: remove trip hazards, increase lighting levels, install handrails on stairs and grab bars in bathrooms. Make fall prevention a family affair. Younger family members are at risk, too. For more information on fall prevention and other caregiving services, call Syd Rogers at 818-368-6313 or srogers@seniorhelpers.com or visit the support services page from the SCV Senior Center website at myscvcoa.org/support-services/. The presentation is open to the public. 

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S C V F E AT U R E

TOWERS

Continued from page 8

to not interfere with existing parking available in the Canyon Country area. The locations for the towers are all final, Chow said. In Santa Clarita, an estimated 65 to 70 wireless communications facilities have been built by cellular companies operating in the valley. The number is only an estimate due to a number of factors including towers being turned off or decommissioned, he said. The providers have two years to pull the permits, with opportunities for one-year extensions. After they are pulled, construction would begin and vary between six to eight months, Chow said. Cell signal locations can be seen on crowd-sourced coverage maps like those seen on Sensorly.com and Opensignal.com. 

A cell tower disguised as a tree on the shoulder of northbound Highway 14 near Canyon Park Boulevard supplies signal for the Fair Oaks Ranch community of Canyon Country and passing motorists. PHOTO BY AUSTIN DAVE | THE SIGNAL

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S E P T E M B E R 23, 2018

FROM THE CITY MANAGER

Connecting with your city By Ken Striplin City Manager

ne of the factors that makes our city so successful is the amazing citizen base, comprised of individuals who are engaged, dedicated and proactive in helping our community thrive. We see this in the number of speakers we have at our City Council and Commission meetings, the thousands of volunteers that give of their time every year, the multitude of requests processed through our Resident Service Center and the amount of residents engaging with our city’s social media accounts. At City Hall, our employee philosophy centers around excellent customer service. We strive to provide

our residents with timely, courteous responses, no matter the request. Reports from our Resident Service Center show month after month that staff is living up to this expectation. With nearly 2,000 requests processed each month, residents continually rate timeliness, courtesy and efficiency of staff in the 90th percentile. The Resident Service Center allows you to access city services and make online requests 24-hours, seven days a week from the comfort of your own home or office. By logging on to santa-clarita.com/rsc, you can do everything from report an abandoned vehicle to find a place to recycle used motor oil. The most frequent requests involve seeking information on city jobs, bulky item pickups, schools, how to sign up for city emails and public records requests. Looking for the latest on city projects, events and general information? Make sure you are following the city

of Santa Clarita on our social media pages, including Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. Some of our more popular recent posts involve the progress at the site of the new Canyon Country Community Center, and how city staff helped a wandering tortoise find its way back home. Social media posts also share information about class and sports league registration, what entertainment will be taking to local stages, important public safety tips, job postings, event details, explore local history, offer emergency preparedness tips and so much more. We also share beautiful images of our city, from sunrises over the mountain tops to our majestic oaks in our open spaces. With the fire danger that is always present in our city, I encourage all of you to sign up for emergency alerts through Nixle. Nixle sends emergency messages via text and/or email from the City of Santa Clarita, the

L.A. County Office of Emergency Management, the Los Angeles County Sheriff ’s Headquarters Newsroom and the Santa Clarita Valley Sheriff ’s Station. To sign up for text alerts, simply text SCEMERGENCY to 888777. To learn more, please visit santa-clarita.com/ealerts. In addition to Nixle alerts, the city also pushes out emergency information on our social media accounts and will activate our Emergency Blog. The latest information in times of disaster can be found at SantaClaritaEmergency.com. This is where the latest on road closures, evacuations, shelters, updates and more will be posted. Please take a moment to like, follow and sign up for all of the resources above. This will allow you to get the most out of your city, and allow us to better tailor programs, initiatives and projects to best serve you. Ken Striplin is the Santa Clarita city manager and can be reached at kstriplin@santa-clarita.com.  Artist rendering of the community center. COURTESY PHOTO

S E P T E M B E R 23, 2018

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 15

What we’ve learned from Foothill League preleague so far? By Dan Lovi Sigal Staff Writer

ith three Foothill League teams done with preleague and the other three finishing this past Friday, it’s time to examine what we’ve learned so far before league play begins Sept. 28.

Canyon: Preleague record 1-3

The Canyon football team faced stiff competition in its non-conference schedule, including a season-opener against San Fernando, last year’s Los Angeles City Section Division 1 champions. While the losing record isn’t ideal, Cowboys head coach Rich Gutierrez scheduled tough opponents for a reason. He wants his players to get better by playing better competition. “Absolutely it was by design,” Gutierrez said of his team’s schedule. “I generally schedule people I know that are going to get after it. Sometimes you win, sometimes you don’t, but adversity is very difficult to emulate. Like I tell my boys, ‘You’re going to take your lumps but you have to learn to get back up and compete.’” Canyon has one more test against Royal before conference play begins against last year’s Foothill League champions Valencia.

Golden Valley: Preleague record 1-4

Since head coach Dan Kelley took over the Golden Valley program in 2014, the Grizzlies haven’t had a losing record in their non-conference schedule until now. It was brutal five-game stretch for Golden Valley, who were outscored 183-76, including a 62-7 loss to Antelope Valley in the second game of the season. Golden Valley’s lone victory came in Week 3 against Division 4 Crespi, a 21-14 overtime thriller. As the season has progressed, quar-

terback Zack Chevalier has gotten more comfortable under center. After throwing two interceptions in his first three games, Chevalier hasn’t turned the ball over in the last two contests. Chevalier will have to continue to improve quickly, because it doesn’t get easier for Golden Valley, which faces undefeated West Ranch in its first league game.

Hart: Preleague record 2-2

Hart has a similar preleague schedule most years, often playing teams it’s faced the year prior. This season was no different, as four of the five teams on the docket were opponents Hart faced in 2017. Hart opened 2017 and 2018 with a loss to Downey before rebounding with a win against Arcadia in the second game. The Indians defeated St. Bonaventure last year, but lost to the Seraphs this season. While the offense has started to pick up the past couple of weeks behind quarterback Zach Johnson, the defense has been inconsistent. The Indians have allowed an average of 31.8 points per contest, which is a major cause for concern considering the other teams in the Foothill League have explosive offenses.

Saugus: Preleague record 4-1

Saugus started the season hot before cooling off in its last preleague game, losing 17-13 to Division 2 St. Francis. With four blowout victories under their belt, the Centurions were not See PRELEAGUE, page 43

Valencia High School’s Luring Paialii turns upfield on a screenpass during the second quarter against Arbor View of Las Vegas, NV, Friday, August 24, 2018. Arbor View beat the Vikings 17-14. KEVIN KARZIN PHOTOGRAPHY LLC

SPORTS

16 · S U N D AYS I G N A L

S E P T E M B E R 23, 2018

‘Right pricing’ in today’s real estate market By Ray Kutylo Signal Contributing Writer

“R

ight pricing” of the home is listing the home at a price designed to get the seller the highest sales price within the timeframe that works for the seller. Getting to the right price involves a knowledgeable assessment of market conditions including recent past sales and current direct competition of comparable properties, and how the seller’s property is similar (or dissimilar) in location, condition, features and upgrades.

An experienced Realtor will also advise their sellers on preparing the home for sale. While many homes are ready for sale, getting the highest price often includes some preparation, which may include cleaning, painting, de-cluttering and pre-packing, staging and addressing deferred maintenance items. It is all about spotlighting the appeal and strengths of the property and minimizing or eliminating obstacles and doubt in the prospective buyer’s mind. Remember, the buyer will always overestimate the costs of corrective measures in assessing value and will mentally deduct them (and more) from the listed price. Right pricing also includes the motivation, plans

and timeframe of the seller. Most sellers want to close the sale of their home in three months or so. Escrows take on average 30 to 45 days, but can be shorter. So fully exposing the home to the market for 30 to 45 days will generally find the one buyer who will pay the highest and best price. Personally, I am not a fan of “I sold this home in one day!” marketing. While some sellers love this, I believe that getting the highest price for my sellers involves maximum exposure to the market, including leveraging the power of the Multiple Listing Service with all of the Realtors (and their buyers), comprehensive exposure to the e-Buyers

through over 50 Internet platforms, open houses, broker opens and personal follow-up on all showings. But that may be just me. I am committed to getting my sellers the highest price possible from the one buyer willing to pay it. Ray the Realtor®Kutylo and the SCV Home Team deliver Service, Commitment, and Value to both Buyers and Sellers in every single real estate transaction. Call (661) 312-9461 or email at Ray@SCVhometeam.com. California DRE# 00918855 

SANTA CLARITA VALLEY CLOSED SALES 9/7/18 to 9/14/18 AREA/St#

St Name

Sold Price

Br/Ba

Sqft/Source

Price/SqFt

ACTON/AGUA DULCE 33105 6938

Santiago RD #71 Escondido Canyon RD

$335,000 $852,000

3/2, 4/3,

1610/A 2568/A

$208.07 $331.78

$215,000 $310,000 $320,000 $400,000 $520,000 $539,999 $555,000 $600,000 $749,000 $799,900

1/1, 2/2, 3/2, 3/1, 3/2, 3/3, 4/2, 3/2, 5/4, 5/3,

680/A 948/A 934/A 920/A 1436/A 1836/A 1813/A 1570/A 3619/A 2935/A

$316.18 $327.00 $342.61 $434.78 $362.12 $294.12 $306.12 $382.17 $206.96 $272.54

$519,900 $635,000 $689,000

4/3, 3/3, 4/3,

1994/A 2870/A 2786/A

$260.73 $221.25 $247.31

Peachland AVE #115 Avenue Of The Oaks #54 Nandina LN #204 Vista Del Canon #B Cedar Valley WAY Adamsboro DR

$228,000 $235,000 $345,000 $359,000 $609,000 $660,000

1/1, 2/2, 3/2, 3/3, 4/2,0,1, 4/3,

656/A 960/A 1045/A 1132/A 1844/A 2212/A

$347.56 $244.79 $330.14 $317.14 $330.26 $298.37

Robin AVE Opal LN Banyan PL #317 Moveo DR Laroda LN Tangerine LN Bene DR Sycamore DR Holly DR Barbacoa DR Propello DR Tula DR Peppercorn DR Candela DR Sugar Pine WAY Parkvale DR Nicholas CIR Samual DR Barbacoa DR Wakefield CT Cross Creek DR Turnleaf CT

$272,000 $395,000 $412,000 $465,000 $470,000 $470,000 $470,000 $495,000 $509,000 $510,000 $518,000 $520,000 $522,500 $525,000 $530,000 $540,000 $585,000 $649,900 $703,000 $715,000 $748,800 $782,000

2/1, 2/2, 3/2, 3/3, 3/3, 4/2,0,1, 3/3, 3/3, 4/3, 4/3, 4/3, 3/2, 4/3, 3/3, 3/2,0,1, 4/3, 4/2,1, 4/3, 4/3, 4/3, 4/3, 5/4,0,1,

834/A 1404/A 1040/A 1511/A 1850/A 2104/A 1511/A 1726/A 2283/A 2025/A 1695/A 1444/A 1752/A 1861/A 1592/A 2080/A 1824/A 2883/A 2441/A 2804/A 3084/A 4052/A

$326.14 $281.34 $396.15 $307.74 $254.05 $223.38 $311.05 $286.79 $222.95 $251.85 $305.60 $360.11 $298.23 $282.11 $332.91 $259.62 $320.72 $225.42 $288.00 $254.99 $242.80 $192.99

Beneda LN #14 Tyler LN #446 Sundowner WAY #1140 Esterbrook AVE Abelia RD Isabella PKWY Lakemore DR Skyview CT Marilyn DR Avocet CT

CASTAIC / VAL VERDE 30304 29746 30641

Spring Meadow CT Castlebury PL Beryl PL

NEWHALL 25003 19724 21314 18814 18831 23731

SAUGUS 28185 19325 22940 21959 19352 28207 21749 28358 19903 22107 21725 22463 21929 21775 28518 27812 28403 20467 22506 21905 21125 27688

28323 22481

St Name

Incline LN Breakwater WAY

Sold Price

Br/Ba

Sqft/Source

Price/SqFt

$800,000 $930,000

4/3, 6/3,1,1,

3313/A 3857/S

$241.47 $241.12

$415,000

3/3,

1232/A

$336.85

$367,000 $390,000 $391,000 $399,900 $420,000 $424,000 $430,000 $443,500 $455,000 $460,000 $460,000 $485,000 $499,000 $525,000 $535,000 $538,000 $566,165 $575,000 $579,165 $583,900 $625,000 $627,000 $635,000 $639,500 $650,000 $665,000 $695,000 $780,000 $895,000 $985,000 $1.175 M

2/1,1, 2/1,0,1, 2/2, 2/2, 2/2,0,1, 2/1,1, 2/3, 2/2, 2/2, 3/2,0,1, 2/2, 3/2, 3/3, 3/2,0,1, 2/1,1,0,1 3/3, 3/2,0,1, 4/2, 3/2,0,1, 4/2, 4/3, 3/2, 4/3, 5/2,0,0,1 3/3, 4/3, 5/3, 5/3, 5/2,2, 5/5, 5/3,2,1,

1000/ 962/OTH 962/A 1030/A 1106/A 1460/A 910/A 1178/A 1488/A 1611/A 1349/A 1307/A 1433/A 1804/A 1234/A 1920/A 1938/B 1624/A 1938/B 1817/A 1836/A 1769/A 1763/A 2508/A 2662/A 2601/A 2327/A 2514/ 3002/ 3822/A 5205/A

$367.00 $405.41 $406.44 $388.25 $379.75 $290.41 $472.53 $376.49 $305.78 $285.54 $340.99 $371.08 $348.22 $291.02 $433.55 $280.21 $292.14 $354.06 $298.85 $321.35 $340.41 $354.44 $360.18 $254.98 $244.18 $255.67 $298.67 $310.26 $298.13 $257.72 $225.74

STEVENSON RANCH 25725

CANYON COUNTRY 17847 27944 18128 27563 29242 26524 20205 19734 29392 18320

AREA/St#

Perlman PL #D

VALENCIA 24137 24229 25783 23625 23606 28547 27829 23930 25843 29208 24210 27010 26504 27362 28466 24106 24165 27515 24226 23242 27948 25418 27950 23033 23813 23645 23942 26822 27165 28328 24327

Del Monte DR #230 Trevino DR Player DR Del Monte DR #307 Muir #70 Herrera ST Crown Court CIR #56 Arroyo Park DR #111 Mcbean PKWY #12 Dakota DR Allium CT Rio Prado DR Sedona DR Dearborn DR Mayfair DR Joshua DR Via Perla Pamplico DR Arroyo Spring DR Via Calisero Redwood Glen RD Via Macarena Skycrest CIR Vista Delgado DR Rio Ranch WAY Via Corsa Sarda RD Peppertree DR Bidwell LN Steel LN Vista Hills DR

Based on information from the Southland Regional Association of REALTORS®/Multiple Listing Service for the week ending on 9/14/18. All data, including all measurements and calculations of area, is obtained from various sources and has not been, and will not be, verified by broker or MLS. All information should be independently reviewed and verified for accuracy. Properties may or may not be listed by the office/agent presenting the information.

S E P T E M B E R 23, 2018

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 17

R E A L E S TAT E

3 ways to use your lawn to improve curb appeal

eturns on home improvemote strong roots and healthy soil, ment projects vary. In its making it easier for grass to survive annual “Cost vs. Value harsh conditions like drought. When Report,” Remodeling mag- watering in summer, do so in early azine notes the projects that yield the morning or evening so as little water best returns on investment in a given is lost to evaporation. year. But a host of factors, including the type of market (for "buyer's" or "seller's") and the region where the Even well-maintained lawns can home is being sold, ultimately comfall victims to brown spots. Accordbine to determine if homeowners’ ing to the lawn care professionals at investments in home-improvement TruGreen, lawns in regions with hot projects will provide temperatures and high the returns they were humidity can be infecthoping for. AN ADDED ed with brown patch, a Though there’s no BENEFIT TO common lawn disease way of guaranteeing a that is caused by funFOCUSING ON home-improvement gus, which can produce project will yield a LANDSCAPING circular areas of brown, great return, real estate TO IMPROVE dead grass surrounded professionals often cite by narrow, dark rings. CURB APPEAL improving curb appeal Penn State’s College of as an excellent way IS IT PROMOTES Agricultural Sciences to attract prospective SPENDING TIME notes that removbuyers and potentially ing dew that collects get the asking price or OUTDOORS on grass leaves each more when selling the morning, which can be home. Improving curb accomplished by mowing or dragging appeal makes even more sense in today’s real estate market, when many a water hose across affected areas, can be an effective way to reduce brown people do their own searching via patch. Homeowners without much real estate websites such as Trulia or Zillow. When using such sites, buyers lawn care experience can consult professional landscapers to address the will likely be less inclined to click issue. But those looking to sell their on a listing if exterior photos of the properties should note that buyers property are not eye-catching. Various projects, including tending often walk the grounds of homes they are considering buying. So addressing to lawns and gardens, can improve any issues on the lawn should be a curb appeal. An added benefit to priority for sellers. focusing on landscaping to improve curb appeal is it promotes spending time outdoors in spring and summer. In addition, many lawn- and Dog owners may want to let their garden-related home-improvement pets roam free in their yards. But projects need not require professional homeowners about to put their propexpertise. erties up for sale may want to confine their four-legged friends to certain areas. That’s because dog urine can be high in nitrogen. Nitrogen itself is not Lawns that fall into disrepair may harmful to lawns, but in high concennot give buyers a correct impression trations it can contribute to yellow or about how homeowners maintained brown spots. Also, highly acidic dog their homes. Lawns with multiple urine may even adversely affect pH dead spots and grass that appears levels in the soil. more brown than green may lead Curb appeal can go a long way many buyers to assume that the toward helping homeowners sell home’s interior was equally ill-cared their homes, and a lush lawn can be for. Maintaining lush green lawns used to catch the eye of prospective is not as difficult as it may seem. Applying fertilizer and aerating at the buyers.  appropriate times of year can pro—Metro Connection

Address brown patches

Various projects, including tending to lawns and gardens, can improve a home's curb appeal to attract prospective buyers. METRO CONNECTION

Confine dogs to areas

Maintain a green lawn

2112 Ironwood Ct - PMC Adorable cabin on a great street. Lots of decking all around on multiple levels. Vaulted knotty pine tongue & groove throughout. $579,000.

(661)

242-4107

CaBRE# 01879356 16215 Pine Valley Ln. #103 Pine Mountain Club kurteast@gmail.com

18 · S U N D AYS I G N A L

S E P T E M B E R 23, 2018

S C V F E AT U R E

How to get a handle on work-related

STRESS

By Michele Lutes Signal Staff Writer

ork-related stress is an all-too-common problem in the workplace, and Santa Clarita isn’t immune from the health challenges stress can bring. About 80 percent of workers report feeling stress on the job, according to the American Institute of Stress. Perhaps most troubling, nearly half of those people admit they need help in learning how to manage their stress. The American Psychological Association notes that stressful work environments can contribute to a host of physical problems, including headache, sleep disturbances and short temper. Chronic stress can produce more serious consequences such as high blood pressure while also weakening sufferers' immune systems. “People forget about the mind. They forget mind and body are con-

SINCE SO MANY PEOPLE TRACE THEIR STRESS TO THE JOBS THEY NEED TO GET BY, THEY MIGHT THINK IT'S IMPOSSIBLE TO ADDRESS THAT STRESS WITHOUT DERAILING THEIR CAREERS.

nected,” said Amie Panicacci, Henry Mayo Newhall Hospital supervisor of social services. Stress at the workplace also can make it difficult to concentrate, which in turn can compromise workers' abilities to perform at the peak of their abilities. That supports the notion that stress is a problem for employees and employers alike.

What can be done Henry Mayo Newhall Hospital offers assistance to its employees experiencing stress, through an employee assistance program. “(Employees) would be covered for mental health and counseling they might need,” Panicacci said. The hospital offers employees support and referrals depending on their insurance. “Social workers that work in the

Stress at the workplace can affect workers' performance, which employers are looking to optimize. METRO CREATIVE

hospital meet with patients and discuss ways they can cope with stress,” Panicacci said. “We help coordinate a follow-up appointment.” If patients or employees have Medi-Cal, they are provided information on county services, she said. Getting a handle on stress can be difficult. Since so many people trace their stress to the jobs they need to get by, they might think it's impossible to address that stress without derailing their careers. But there are a handful of ways for professionals to get a handle on their stress without negatively affecting their careers. “Speak up, sometimes that’s difficult,” Panicacci said. As noted, stress at the workplace can affect workers' performance, which employers are looking to op-

timize. Workers can speak to their employers if they feel their work environments are conducive to stress. Work in tandem with an employer to develop time-saving strategies that make it easier to get work done on time. Supervisors may encourage employees to delegate more often, freeing up time to get their work done. Employers may also direct employees to wellness resources that can help them more effectively combat stress. The outcomes of such discussions may never be known if workers never take the initiative and speak up about their stress.

Take more time off According to the "State of American Vacation 2016" report from

S E P T E M B E R 23, 2018

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 19

S C V F E AT U R E Project: Time Off, American workers failed to use 658 million vacation days in 2015. Vacation is not just a time to get away, but a valuable, effective way for workers to recharge. The APA notes that avoiding the negative effects of chronic stress and burnout requires workers to take time away to replenish and return to their pre-stress level of functioning. Taking time off to disconnect from work and avoid thinking about work can be just what workers need to overcome their work-related stress. And plenty of workers have the time to take off; they just need to take it. Some tips to relieve stress include:

sleep, exercise, meditation, yoga, tai chi and eating healthy, according to Panicacci, who advocates “staying in touch with people who can provide emotional support, getting proper health care and seeking qualified mental health help.” The APA recommends professionals coping with workplace stress embrace techniques that can effectively alleviate stress. Such techniques include meditation and deep-breathing exercises and can help workers develop their ability to focus purposefully on a single activity. That improved focus may help workers better navigate hectic working environments without succumbing to the stress such environments can produce. 

HEADS UP!

DISCONNECT FROM DISTRACTIONS. A SECOND CAN COST A LIFETIME.

Mental Health and other Resources for Santa Clarita Valley and Surrounding Areas 911 should always be the first call. Those looking to speak with someone can call (800) 273-8255 for the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline; (800) 854-7771 for The Los Ange-

les County Department of Mental Health; and (800) 784-2433 for The Treatment Advocacy Center. You can contact the SCV Child & Family Center at (661) 259-9439.

College of the Canyons Student Health & Wellness Resource www.canyons.edu/Offices/Health/Pages/Community-Referral-Sources.aspx Child & Family Center, Santa Clarita www.childfamilycenter.org/ Henry Mayo Newhall Hospital Behavioral Health Free and Confidential MH Screening //screening.mentalhealthscreening.org/#/henrymayo Mental Health America www.mentalhealthamerica.net Mental Health: It’s Part of All Our Lives (800) 789-2647 www.allmentalhealth.samsha.gov National Child Traumatic Stress Network http://www.nctsn.org/ National Council for Community Behavioral Healthcare www.thenationalcouncil.org National Institute for Mental Health www.nimh.nih.gov National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (800) 273-TALK www.suicidepreventionlifeline.org Reachout.com http://us.reachout.com/reachouthere SAMHSA Site for Coping with Disaster and Traumatic Events www.samhsa.gov/trauma/?from=carousel&position=1&date=02282012 Santa Clarita City Mental Health Resource Page www.santa-clarita.com/Modules/ShowDocument.aspx?documentid=5713 SCV Youth Project (661) 257-9688 www.helpnothassle.org Stop Bullying www.stopbullying.gov 

YOU CAN DO YOUR PART TO REDUCE TRAFFIC-RELATED COLLISIONS AND FATALITIES BY BEING A HEADS UP DRIVER, CYCLIST AND PEDESTRIAN. #HeadsUp santa-clarita.com/HeadsUp

20 · SUN S IIGGNNAALL 20 ND DAY AYS

Opinion

23, 2018 SSEEPPTTEEMMBBEERR 23,

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

OURVIEW

In Washington, D.C., It's Life Lessons Found While All About Getting the W Traveling a Bumpy Road By The Signal Editorial Board

ou almost have to wonder if Vince Lombardi would be proud of what American politics has become. After all, when it comes to matters involving Republicans and Democrats, winning truly is the only thing. At least, that’s how it all too often seems to be. Even the most noble of political newcomers get sucked into the swamp when they go to Washington. Once you get there, even if you have the best of intentions, party leadership browbeats you until you toe the party line — not for the good of America, but for the good of the party. By way of example, let’s just look at the two most recent vacancies on the U.S. Supreme Court, and how filling them has been politicized by both parties. In 2016, on the heels of the February death of Associate Justice Antonin Scalia, President Obama promptly nominated Merrick Garland to succeed Scalia, a conservative who had been appointed by President Reagan. “Widely regarded as a moderate, Garland had been praised in the past

By David Hegg

by many Republicans, including influential senators such as Orrin Hatch of Utah,” news analyst Ron Elving wrote for NPR in June this year. “But even before Obama had named Garland, and in fact only hours after Scalia's death was announced, Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell declared any appointment by the sitting president to be null and void.” In other words, Obama’s nominee was a non-starter, rejected without so much as a perfunctory hearing, solely on the basis that Obama had less than a year left in his term. The Republicans weren't motivated by what was “right.” They were motivated by the big W: Winning. By leaving the seat vacant until after the election, they rolled the dice that the next president would be a Republican and the end result would be a more conservative appointee. See OUR VIEW, page 22

wo weeks ago, I was flying down the road, knowing the stop lights were timed to reward drivers adhering to the 50-mph limit. Deep in thought, I failed to recognize that ongoing road construction had left a deep horizontal ravine with an accompanying elevated pavement edge on the other side. I hit both with speed and the ensuing shock to my suspension and my neck left me infuriated at the numbskulls responsible. How dare the city, and the road crew, and everyone else I could think of, put such an obstacle in the road I drive every day! I even started wondering if those responsible might be the target of lawsuits on the part of car owners whose front ends would require re-alignment. Then it hit me! I had become just like those I often shake my head and smile at. You know them. They’re the ones who believe life should always be magical. They have apps for everything, expect the universe to cater to their every need, consider conve-

nience in all things to be a birthright, and squeal at even the slightest bump in the road. They are so sure their lives are meant to be comfortable, satisfying, and self-gratifying they have no category for disappointment, life interruptions, sweat and tragedy. And, if any of these despicable things invade their dreamland, they are absolutely positive someone else is to blame. But such a view of life is neither reasonable nor beneficial. Here’s the deal. Every life, like every road, has a significant number of bumps, and many of them are deep and dangerous. We live in a world that is broken in so many ways and for so many reasons. To drive the road of life thinking the pavement will always be smooth is to approach it with childish dreams rather than a reasonable rationality. And what dreams can never do is prepare you adequately to persevere through all the obstacles and challenges you will inevitably face. See HEGG, page 22

READERLETTERS

SCV’s Pothole-Stricken Roads The roads in SCV are at an all-time low for traveling around town. The potholes are terrible and clearly rain is not the reason. School has started, along with tearing up and repairing the roads and curbs. I do not understand how this decision could have been approved. Wow, that is a genius idea and ideal time to start this project! I am a local automotive repair shop owner and although you are making work for my shop and others, I do not want to profit on auto repairs that are caused by poor planning. With the cost of fuel

and the taxes we pay, our roads should be in great shape like other parts of our great country. The entry to San Francisquito Canyon is riddled with potholes. It is a city road for the first 1/16 of a mile and is in very poor shape. I hope (they) make the roads better and maintain them, for all of us in the SCV. Eddie Reinsma, Saugus

Hill Relies on Special Interests Katie Hill has made a campaign out of smearing Steve Knight for his supposed reliance on special

interests. What she has failed to point out is the hundreds of thousands of dollars her campaign has taken from the very types of special interests she is supposed to oppose. Hill has repeatedly expressed her refusal to take money from corporations, but these are not the only special interests in politics. Federal Election Commission filings show Hill has taken thousands from special interests trying to promote access to abortions. Whatever you think about NARAL and the Planned Parenthood PAC, they are special interests. See LETTERS, page 21

S2E1P T· ESMUBNE D R AY 23,S 2018 IGNAL

S U NSD L ·2018 21 E PAYS T E MI G B ENRA23,

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 I C K M C K E E

The 1992 Election and the Tactics that Remain By Tim Whyte Signal Editor

ee Schramling was probably not going to be elected to the Santa Clarita City Council. It was 1992. He was running against an incumbent, Jan Heidt, who was one of the original five council members from the city’s formation in 1987. She had a strong base of support. Also on the ballot was George Pederson, an immensely well-liked retired law enforcement officer who had served as commander of the Sheriff's Department’s jail near Castaic, then known as the Wayside Honor Rancho. With founding Mayor Howard “Buck” McKeon leaving the council to start his career in Congress, Jan and George were the clear front-runnners for the two seats in the ’92 election. Yet, someone evidently viewed Schramling as a threat to win, because we got an anonymous news tip, perfectly timed just a few weeks before the election: Schramling had a criminal conviction in his past. It was a charge from nearly a decade prior, when he had gotten bounced out of his job as a Hawthorne police officer after getting caught in a sheriff ’s sting operation: He had stolen a purse that was “found” at a crime scene. It contained cocaine, planted there by the deputies running the sting. He took it home that night, in his own vehicle. And when the arresting officers searched his locker at work, they also found a bag of marijuana. Schramling contended he was innocent, the marijuana had been planted in his locker and he was planning to book the purse into evidence the next day when he returned to work. But, the grand theft conviction stood. (One of his election opponents had hired a private investigator to dig up the dirt.)

There was no denying we had to run a news story on it. When you get word that a City Council candidate has that kind of an incident in his past, there’s really not a choice. But the timing of it — well, it left a bad taste. When you’re the local media outlet and a tip like that gets dropped in your lap strictly because someone seeks political gain, you feel used. When the tip about a candidate involves a criminal record like this one did, you’re hard-pressed to ignore it. It’s a lose-lose situation: Do you sit on the story, and wait until after the election? If you do that, you are protecting the candidate and opening yourself to valid criticism that you didn’t do your job so you could protect a political candidate’s record from scrutiny. And if you run the story, you are going to be viewed — by some, anyway — as intentionally timing the story to torpedo a candidate, even if that’s not your true intent. We ran the story. Other media also picked up on it. As I recall, Schramling wasn’t happy about it, but on some level he seemed to understand why we did it. Even if he was angry, he handled it well. When election day came, Schramling, who was considered to be a “slow-growth” candidate, finished seventh out of 16 candidates. (Yep, ’92 was a rodeo just like 2018 is going to be, with 15 candidates...) An ironic aside: The man in eighth behind Schramling was Ken Dean, a nice guy who is running again this year. Back in the ’90s, I referred to Ken in one of my columns as a “perennial candidate.” He still reminds me about that long-ago wisecrack. But there he is again this year, one of 15 on the Nov. See WHYTE, page 22

LETTERS

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Steve Knight has roused the ire of liberals because the National Rifle Association gave him a negligible campaign contribution, but few have condemned Hill for her reliance on money from abortion groups. For the sake of argument, I should like to point out that there have been approximately 1.5 million gun-related deaths since 1968 — a number that pales in comparison to the (estimated) 60 million aborted fetuses since 1973. However, Hill does not only profit from abortion groups. She has also taken thousands from Nancy Pelosi and Hillary Clinton, making it all but certain that, if elected, she will become the newest mouthpiece for establishment liberals. The next time you see a liberal make the banal pledge to avoid special interests, consider all the groups that could be behind them — like the ones behind Katie Hill. Chris Anderson, Valencia

Horton Forgets History It seems Gary Horton (Sept. 18) blames the situation in Washington, D.C., on polarized politics and then he goes on to describe those folks

living in red states as podunk, cow herding beggars. He seems to be more part of the problem than the solution. Apparently, he also wants to abolish the Senate. He forgets this nation’s beginning as a union of states, and the purpose of our bicameral legislative bodies, the Senate, representing the states, and the House of Representatives, representing the people. His is a “my way or the highway” approach, where the 40 million people in California should tell the other 260 million or so folks how to live. By the way, one in five of those 40 million Californians live below the poverty level. Thank you Sacramento! I do want to congratulate him on his company’s annualized revenues now exceeding $25 million though, as described in “Landscape Company Grows With Purchase” (The Signal, Sept. 15). But hey, I’m just one of those deplorables who grew up in one of those podunk states he looks down on, so I’m sure he will ignore my rant. Thomas Smith, Valencia 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.

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Opinion

HEGG

Continued from page 20

Perseverance, the courage and toughness necessary to get going when the going gets tough is fading fast in our culture. Here’s why: When you view life as owing you comfort, convenience and excitement at every turn, you won’t consider it an advantage to build the character necessary to meet tragedy head-on and overcome it. Further, you won’t consider it wise to prepare yourself for unmet expec-

tations, unfair treatment, ungrateful friends and an unjust society. Simply put, life can be wonderful, but it will always have bumps along the way, and many will demand preparation and perseverance. Sadly, my story doesn’t end there. Yes, I hit the bumps and went off, and then slapped myself around enough to realize it was my lack of attention, not the inattention of the road crew that was the real problem. Hundreds of other cars had made the same journey with far better results because they were prepared for the bumps.

WHYTE

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6 ballot. Part of me roots for him. Back to ’92: Would Schramling have been elected if we hadn’t run that story? Odds are, no. Heidt and Pederson really had that thing locked up. Would he have finished higher than seventh if we’d sat on the story? Maybe. People liked him, although he lacked the financial backing enjoyed by the top candidates. Would sitting on the story have been the right thing for the paper to do? No. But we still didn’t like that feeling of being used by someone whose motives were cynical. In any case, the odds are no one in that 16-horse race was going to touch either Heidt or Pederson. Then, as now, even local City Council elections were driven by the benefits of incumbency and money. Heidt (6,748 votes) and Pederson (5,693) spanked that massive field. Third-place Mike Lyons was more than 2,000 votes behind them. The candidates in 15th and 16th place, I’m pretty sure, swept the votes of their immediate families but not much else. For Schramling’s part, he went on to become known as a good guy in the community. As some have said recently about national figures ranging from football coaches to NBA team owners to a certain Supreme Court nominee: The totality of our being is not necessarily defined by our worst moment. That’s not to excuse bad behavior, but what I saw happen with Schramling was this: After his election defeat, he went on to build a new career in real estate and to cultivate strong connections with the community, in particular at Canyon High School, where he would become known as “Mr. Canyon.” Check this out, from the Canyon High website, when a scholarship was announced in his memory after he died in 2016: “For over 25 years, Lee Schramling has been on the sidelines supporting Canyon Cowboy football. Lee would also often assist in the school’s annual Economic Summit and had actively participated in both the Parent and

But not me. In fact, just one day later, on the same road, I hit the same obstacles at speed but this time it brought a chuckle. Not only do we need to prepare to respond maturely to the bumps of life, we also need to learn from them! Face it, life is resourceful, creative and relentless. Every day it presents obstacles to our well-being. That means we must develop great character, patience, rational emotional balance, and courage, in order to face each day prepared to respond well to whatever it throws at us. For me, this means having a model

District Advisory Committees. Lee was the Hart District’s volunteer of the year in 2014, but unfortunately recently passed away after a three-monthlong battle with pancreatic cancer.” Lee Schramling’s life, in total, was not defined by the incident from his past that defined his 1992 run for City Council. I bring all this up now because I see some of the same political tactics in play. We haven’t had to deal with a situation like the one from 1992 (and I hope we don’t). Still, the “I’ve got some dirt...” tips are flowing into the newsroom, albeit a little earlier than in ’92 because absentee voters are so much more important now. Gotta get out front, early. Some tips are valid, and result in news stories. Some prove not to be valid, or don’t rise to the level of being news. Still, all these years later, I don’t like that feeling of being “used” by someone who sends in a tip solely for political gain — especially when you know he or she has been sitting on a piece of information until just the right time to release it and inflict the most damage. (There’s a Dianne Feinstein reference in here if you want to read between the lines...) But, now as it was then, it remains part of the job to sift through those tips, and try to apply an honest sense of news judgment: Even if it’s politically motivated, is it news? Is the information credible? What is most fair to all candidates involved, and most importantly, what best serves our readers, who are our most important stakeholders? Sometimes, those answers create difficult balances to strike. The campaigns for City Council and other elected offices, from school boards to state legislative seats and a hotly contested congressional seat, are just getting into high gear. Will there be tales of malfeasance, deception, treachery and, yes, even redemption? Saddle up. It’s going to be a rodeo. Let’s see if we can hang on for 8 seconds... Tim Whyte is editor of The Signal. His column appears Sundays. Email: twhyte@signalscv.com. Twitter: @TimWhyte. 

to follow, learn from and imitate. I call him Jesus Christ, and it is in denying self, taking up the cross, and following him that my life starts making sense, and making a difference. The lessons of the bumpy road are simple, but far from easy. Prepare for the inevitable bumps in the road. Learn from the bumps you hit. And help those around you to do the same. David Hegg is senior pastor of Grace Baptist Church and a Santa Clarita resident.“Ethically Speaking” appears Sundays. 

OUR VIEW

Continued from page 20

Later, after President Trump took office, he appointed Neil Gorsuch. Fast forward to summer 2018, and Trump has nominated Brett Kavanaugh to replace Associate Justice Anthony Kennedy, who retired July 31. The Democrats aren’t in a position to unilaterally delay the appointment until after the next presidential election, but with a hotly contested midterm election coming up Nov. 6, they have been in “stall” mode from the get-go. If you watched the opposition to Kavanaugh’s nomination mount, it almost seemed as if congressional Democrats had hammered out their talking points before even knowing who the nominee would be. Just fill in the blank! Then, as the torturous proceeding of Kavanaugh’s Senate confirmation hearing was winding down and a confirmation vote was potentially just a week away, California Sen. Dianne Feinstein dropped a bombshell she had been sitting on for a month and a half: The letter Feinstein had received from Christine Blasey Ford alleging that Kavanaugh had sexually assaulted her in the early 1980s while they were both in high school. Are the allegations true? It’s conceivable that they are, and it’s conceivable that they are not. Proving it one way or the other, all these years later, would be difficult. What seems obvious, though, is that the timing of the release of the information — and subsequent calls for an FBI investigation, which apparently wouldn't even have jurisdiction for a case such as this, particularly with the statute of limitations expired — are stall tactics designed to draw out the Kavanaugh question as long as possible. As of this writing, the situation remains fluid and may even have changed by now. But rest assured: Whatever happens between now and the swearing-in of either Kavanaugh or some other nominee, the Republicans and the Democrats will be less focused on doing the right thing than they will be on “winning.” For them, it’s the only thing. 

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THIS WEEK’S CALENDAR

ONGOING Santa Clarita City Council Meetings second and fourth Tuesday of every month 6 p.m. Council meetings are also broadcast live on SCV TV channel 20 and on the city’s website. Santa Clarita City Hall, City Council Chambers, 23920 Valencia Blvd., Santa Clarita. Info: City Clerk’s office Clerk’s office: (661) 255-4391. Baby and Toddler Storytime is designed to build early language and literacy foundations for children six months to three years old. Sing and bounce, read and rhyme. Sept. 10-Nov. 15 • Canyon Country Library: Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays 9:30 a.m. • Newhall Library: Tuesdays and Wednesdays 10 a.m. • Valencia Library: Mondays, Wednesdays and Thursdays 10 a.m. and Tuesdays 11 a.m.

Twos and Threes Storytime

• Canyon Country Library: Mondays and Tuesdays 11 a.m., Wednesdays 9:30 a.m. • Newhall Library: Mondays and Thursdays 10 a.m. Wednesdays 11 a.m. • Valencia Library: Tuesdays at 10 a.m. Wednesdays and Thursdays at 11 a.m.

School Readiness Storytime, ages 3-5.

• Canyon Country Library: Wednesdays at 11:00 a.m. • Newhall Library: Tuesdays at 11:00 a.m. • Valencia Library: Mondays at 11:00 a.m.

Valencia Library, 23743 Valencia Blvd. Canyon Country Jo Anne Darcy Library, 18601 Soledad Canyon Road. Old Town Newhall Library, 24500 Main St. Info: SantaClaritaLibrary.com or (661) 259-0750. Sundays 7:30 a.m. Dragon Boat Paddling. Experience a long Dragon boat with the Castaic Lake Dragon Boat team and a two-hour physical workout. Free, no experience necessary. Paddle and PFD personal flotation device provided. Info: https://teamdragoneyes.my-free.website (213) 447-5707. Saturdays and Sundays 1-4 p.m. The Santa Clarita Valley Historical Society invites guests to visit Heritage Junction Historic Park inside William S. Hart Park in Newhall. Tours are held every Saturday and Sunday, 1-4 p.m. 24101 Newhall Ave, Newhall. Info: https://scvhs.org. Tuesdays 7:30-8:30 p.m. Remo’s Community Drumming Experience is an hour of fun, entry-level experiential music making with drums and percussion that is accessible to everyone. Family-friendly environment with facilitator. All ages and levels of ability

are welcome and no prior musical experience is necessary. Drums and percussion instruments provided at no cost. Free. Info: santaclaritaarts. com. Saturdays thru Dec. 8 – 8 a.m. to noon. Trails & Open Space Beautification Projects. Join a group of dedicated volunteers and help clean up and maintain City trails. Interested volunteers must pre-register at SantaClaritaVolunteers.com. Saturdays 11 a.m. Family Nature Walk and a Native Live Animal Presentation at 1 p.m. Free. Placerita Nature Center, 19152 Placerita Canyon Road, Newhall. Info: www.placerita.org. Second Saturday of the month 8 a.m. a docent-led Bird Walk for beginning to advanced birders. Bring binoculars, a field guide, and water. 19152 Placerita Canyon Road, Newhall. Info: www.placerita.org. First, second and third Thursdays of each month 6-9 p.m. ARTree Figure Drawing. Visit ARTree Community Arts Center for a chance to really explore your creative potential using a live model. Just drop in and bring a pencil and paper. $10 donation. ARTree Community Arts Center, 22508 6th St., Newhall. Info: http:// theartree.org. Saturdays and Sundays (except rainy days and holidays) 9:30 a.m. to noon. The Gibbon Conservation Center is open to the public. A tour is given at 10 a.m. and self-guided tours are available at all times. Admission: $15 (adults); $12 (teens and students); $10 (seniors); $5 (children 6-12); $0 (Children under 5). Gibbon Conservation Center, 19100 Esguerra Road Saugus. Info: http://www.gibboncenter.org Now thru Oct. 1. “Pettable Paintings,” is animal-themed artwork by Santa Clarita artist, Janine Cooper Ayres where guests are encouraged to touch the artwork. Newhall Community Center, 22421 Market St., Newhall. Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Info: jbarber@santa-clarita.com or www.SantaClaritaArts.com.

= Family Friendly Event area, professional, amateur, students and the public, will take to the pavement armed with pastel chalks to create masterpieces. The theme of the event is “Wit, Wonder and Whimsy.” This is a family-friendly event. Main Street, between 6th and the Roundabout. Info: http://otna.org. Wednesday, Sept. 26 – 9 a.m. to noon. Morning Plein Aire Painting. Meets last Wednesday of the month in a different location. The event is free, but register in advance: www. santaclaritaartists.org/plein-aire-events.html. This month: Placerita Canyon Nature Center, 19152 Placerita Canyon Road, Newhall, 91321. Thursday, Sept. 27 – 5-8 p.m. Voices for Recovery. Child & Family Center and the Way Out Recovery Child, 21545 Centre Pointe Parkway, Santa Clarita. Free community event features a resource fair 5-6 p.m., followed by two panel presentations from 6-8 p.m. The goal is to educate the community on substance use prevention and treatment, while supporting people in recovery and draw attention to critical prevention, treatment and recovery support services available. Info: www.childfamilycenter.org/events Thursday, Sept. 27 – 7 p.m. ARTree Speaker

Series Chris Sonnenburg. With more than 20 years of experience in the animation industry, Sonnenburg began his career at Disney Feature Animation in 1994 working on films such as “Pocahontas,”“Hercules,”“Mulan,”“Tarzan” and “Fantasia 2000.” Later in his career, he worked with James Baxter Animation as an assistant director on the 2D sequences for Disney’s Enchanted and DreamWorks Animation’s “Kung Fu Panda.” Sonnenburg’s television credits include “The Critic,”“Futurama,”“Beavis and Butt-Head,” as well as Disney’s “Gravity Falls.” Sonnenburg attended California Institute of the Arts, where he majored in Character Animation. During college, he worked as Bugs Bunny at Six Flags Magic Mountain, which is still one of his all-time favorite jobs. The MAIN, 24266 Main St., Newhall, 91321. Info: www.theartree.org Saturday, Sept. 29 – 1:30 p.m. Santa Clarita Artists Association Art Classic Annual judged art show. Refreshments, music, wine, and silent auction. Tickets: $25. Proceeds benefit the SCAA’s scholarship program and other enrichment projects to encourage future artists. SCAA, 22508 6th St., Newhall. Info: (661) 3135216 or https://www.santaclaritaartists.org. 

N!IN! IN! WIW W CONGRATULATIONS to Daniela Arnold of Santa Clarita — the winner of $100 for correctly identifying the artwork as being from Temple Beth Ami advertisement on page 19 of our Sept. 9 issue. Identify this piece of artwork and the page number that it is on in one of the advertisements in this week’s issue, and you will be entered to win $100. One game and one winner each week.

Mail your entry to: The Signal – Contest 26330 Diamond Place | Santa Clarita, CA 91350 Or email to: contest@signalscv.com Advertiser: Page # Name:

EVENTS BY DATE Sunday, Sept. 23 Santa Clarita Chalk Festival 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The Santa Clarita Chalk Festival is presented by the Old Town Newhall Association, Over the course of three days, artists from all over the

Address:

Phone:

This week’s entries are due Wed. Oct 3. Winner to be announced in 2 weeks.

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S E P T E M B E R 23, 2018

Weavily Chow & Emil’s Not Dead

ell there you are, dear saddlepals. All warm and cozy under those bunkhouse blankets, all dehydrated and sleeping off a Saturday night of self-despising perdition. C’mon. Rub the sleep from your eyes, climb out of those bedrolls and wiggle into some proper cowboy, cowgirl and/or person of cow ranch duds. We’ve some tall riding ahead in this week’s Santa Clarita trailride into the yesteryear. Take a range sweater. It’s going to get below freezing. We’ve got gamblers, crooks, “weevily” high school chow, Wyatt Earp, death wish pilots and Canyon High’s first win ever. Please do not say, “no problem,” “awesome,” “throw shade” or any other teen/ millennial jargon. It spooks the horses and you could get thrown into another, less forgiving dimension as we pass through the time vortex…

WAY BACK WHEN & THEN SOME

• Long before the hysteria of global warming, we had something called “summer.” On this date in 1879, Saugus train station manager John Gifford reported a daytime high of 104. • Twin brothers Cyrus (the gunfighter) and Sanford (the businessman) bought the Wiley Station on Sept. 24, 1855, near present-day Eternal Valley. That was the major population hub of the SCV, with a couple dozen or so souls. • Abraham Lincoln refused to make Gen. Edward Fitzgerald Beale the surveyor general of the United States. Abe quipped that Ed tended “… to become master of all he surveys.” On Sept. 19, 1863, Beale loaned $2,000 to A.A. Hudson and Oliver Robbins to build and maintain a toll gate at Beale’s Cut, the then-only main route into or out of the SCV. For 20 years, Beale collected a fee for every wagon, critter and human who passed through the valley. Interestingly, Beale was paid by Los Angeles County to build the darn cut and used free Army labor to do it. • It may be the most famous oil well in the world. On Sept. 26, 1876, Pico No. 4 erupted in a black gusher. The ocean of oil underneath would continue to pump for more than a century. • On Sept. 15, 1894, the Castaic Post Office opened. It closed 11 months later in August of 1895. No one was mailing any letters in Castaic. No one was getting any letters in Castaic.

SEPT 23, 1928

• Cripes, how I love my Mighty Signal. Signal editor A.B. “Dad” Thatcher had a certain panache when offering a correction. Note that this tepid apology was written on the back page: “The

Orvon Grover Autry — “Gene” to his pals — was born on Sept. 29, 1907, in Tioga, Texas. He wasn’t the first “singing cowboy.” (John Wayne was!) But he used his affable personality, golden voice and athleticism to transcend from a life of poverty to becoming a billionaire entertainer and businessman. He owned Melody Ranch in Placerita Canyon and had planned to build his big Western heritage museum there. Trivia? During World War II, he was future Arizona Sen. Barry Goldwater’s co-pilot.

statement in last week’s paper that Emil Gilman had dropped dead at Walch Ranch while at work was incorrect. He had just returned from Los Angeles.” One can certainly see the innocence of the mistake. • It was one of the worst fires since the 19th century. Some 20,000 acres were scorched, from the Ridge Route to Ventura County. Four separate carloads of travelers were burned severely after they ignored roadblocks and drove into the blaze. Another fire, this one up Mint Canyon, torched 2,500 acres and obliterated the old Walker Garage.

The Time Ranger

car, horse or wagon to the bus A weekly trailride through stop. Naomi rode 35 minutes to Santa Clarita Valley History GET TO Castaic, catch a bus, then ride another hour to get to by John Boston school. She spent four hours a day commuting. Eventually, the family moved out of Castaic. wreckage arose a sickening, sweetish Life being what it is, eventually, so does stench of roasted human flesh which, everybody… once encountered, is never erased from memory.” SEPT 23, 1948 • Doors opened for the first time • OK. This wasn’t global warming. at what would become Golden Oak Maybe just “climate change.” The nightAdult School, the first adult-educatime low for Newhall on this night? A tion campus in the SCV. There was brisk 30 degrees. a pittance charged for textbooks and • Stubborn? Stupid? Death wish? Ecmaterials, and tuition was free. centric millionaire jeweler and amateur • Up Dry Canyon (near San Francispilot Eugene Joseff had been passionquito Canyon, about 6 miles north of ately warned about taking off from the city hall), Albert Conrad quietly celNewhall Airport. The conditions were ebrated his 92nd birthday with a few hellish: thick fog and zero visibility. friends. Conrad retired here in 1926, Worse, Joseff’s plane had one nearly after a career as a tax collector. Before flat tire. Despite threats and someone that, in the 1890s, he was prospecting nearly physically stopping him from during Alaska’s great gold rush. Before boarding, Joseff took off. Disoriented, that? Conrad claimed to have been he circled Newhall a few times, found on the street in Tombstone, on Oct. the airport (it was near where Granary 26, 1881, to personally witness the Square on McBean Parkway is today) shootout between the Earps and Doc then crash-landed, killing himself and Holliday vs. the Clantons, McLauries three passengers. Wrote Signal Editor and various bad guy henchmen. Let the record note: The Earps won the Fred Trueblood II, who was at the field 30-second shootout.  during the crash: “From the steaming

SEPT 23, 1938

• One of the byproducts of the great St. Francis Dam Disaster a decade earlier was a giant swimming pool. Ten years later, a lake formed at the dam. Forest Service workers planted trees and graded roads. It was a famous tourist spot and swimming lagoon. • OK. Next time your young one complains about having to get up early to get to school, tell her of Naomi Mulvaney. Before we had our own high school in 1945, students mostly attended San Fernando High. Naomi had to get up in the middle of the night to ride

One of the most confusing souls to us in the here-&-now was Remi Nadeau. Actually, the question is, WHICH Remi Nadeau. The grand patriarch was born on Sept. 21, 1821, and would become one of California’s most colorful and influential movers and shakers. Remi had a series of gold mines stretching into Central California and was behind the movement to make Ventura — not Los Angeles — the grand city of SoCal. He owned much of Canyon Country at one time, was one of the West’s biggest freighters, later turning his attentions to hotels. This rendering is his home in Downtown Los Angeles. Today, the Biltmore Hotel rests there. What’s confusing was that just about every male relative down the line of Remi’s was also named — Remi. Remi No. 1’s grandson, Remi, would later (in 1927) build the world’s largest private deer farm — in Canyon Country.

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K I D S & FA M I LY

Pismo, the perfect fall break trip By Martha Garcia Signal Staff Writer

t’s that in-between time of year here in the Santa Clarita Valley; back-to-school is behind us and the holidays are not quite upon us. Yet, for many school-aged kids and teens, they look forward to fall break. For elementary school-aged children in the Saugus Union School District, that’s an entire week off school the first week of October. For high schoolers in William S. Hart District, it’s a long weekend with Oct. 1–2 off. No matter which age group, Pismo is great place to visit during fall break, either for a long weekend or a full week. Pismo is 160 miles northwest of Santa Clarita, a roughly 3- to 4-hour drive up the coast. Just south of San Luis Obispo, Pismo is a dreamy beach town with a population of 8,000. Pismo is the perfect destination for families, the self-proclaimed beach bum, and golf and wine aficionados alike.

Where to Stay Cottage Inn by the Sea is a charming English cottage-inspired style boutique hotel. Located on the ocean front sea bluffs, it provides a dramatic view of the ocean with a convenient location for nearby activities

Pismo is 160 miles northwest of Santa Clarita, a roughly 3- to 4-hour drive up the coast. PHOTOS COURTESY OF THE PISMO EACH CONFERENCE & VISITORS BUREAU.

and restaurants. Rates start at $180 per night, but the hotel is offering discounts for fall break trips. Cottage Inn by the Sea, Pismo Beach, See PISMO, page 42

Pismo is the perfect destination for families, the self-proclaimed beach bum, and golf and wine aficionados alike.

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S E P T E M B E R 23, 2018

K I D S & FA M I LY

Donna's Day: Creative Family Fun

INSULATING FOAM BUGS MAKE WELCOME GUESTS

By Donna Erickson Signal Contributor Writer

here's so much to see and do outdoors this time of year. Even the tiniest details possess a bit of wonder for kids. Twigs, leaves, stones, pinecones, acorns and a favorite fascination: bugs! These bugs don't bite when kids use their imagination to design and paint bug-like creatures. The roundish body is a foam form that emerges from a can of insulating foam sealant, available at hardware stores. Maybe you already have a can, if you are filling in some gaps and cracks in your home to stop drafts before winter. That’s the home-improvement project my friend Tom Troffey, an educator and dad, was doing when he discovered the potential for kids' play and creativity as he squirted the extra remaining foam from the can into 2-inch ball shapes on a sheet of waxed paper and let them dry. An idea was born! He made dozens of “blobs” that school-age kids could paint and decorate to resemble bugs during the arts-and-crafts class he taught at a summer camp. “It was so much fun to see how young children could imagine and transform a plain white ball of hardened foam with paint, pipe cleaners and wire into an original, colorful creature,” he said. “Once completed, they had a great time using their eye-catching bug and caterpillar creations for storytelling, learning and play.” If you're looking for a new art project for your young kids, make bugs that invade but won't crawl around your house. Only adults should make the foam shapes. Once dried and firmed overnight, kids do the designing.

Here’s the stuff you need • can of insulating foam sealant from the hardware store. I used Great Stuff brand. • waxed paper. • toothpicks. • acrylic paint in small bottles, and paintbrushes. • pipe cleaners and/or wire.

Here's the fun An adult should carefully follow instructions on the can and point the attachable nozzle over a sheet of waxed paper set on a flat surface. For basic bugs, make roundish blobs approximately 2 inches in diameter, or let your creativity loose and make shapes for snakes, lizards, etc. Let the foam harden overnight. Now, get kids involved. Poke a toothpick into the shape for a handle. Dab different colors of paint around the "body" to design an original bug. Let dry. Insert pipe cleaners and wire in different directions for legs and anten-

nae. Name it and play with it. Note: The “blobs” can be the basis of limitless art activities. Use toothpicks to connect shapes for modern art sculptures or wild creatures. 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.”  © 2018 Donna Erickson Distributed by King Features Synd.

Did you know?

hildren have long been drawn to expressing themselves through art. According to developmental experts, coloring stimulates creativity, contributes to better handwriting, teaches color recognition, and can promote hand-eye coordination. Coloring books can help children learn to recognize boundaries and structure and develop spacial awareness. Adults, too, have recognized the benefits that coloring can bring, which includes stress reduction and improved focus.

Crayons have long been a favorite tool for coloring, and over the years certain colors have emerged as fan favorites. Crayola® conducted polls in 1993 and 2000 to find out the most popular colors of crayons in America. Blue was voted the favorite both times. Six other shades of blue, including cerulean, midnight blue, aquamarine, periwinkle, denim and blizzard blue, finished among the top 10. Purple heart, caribbean green and cerise rounded out the top 10.  —Metro Connection

S E P T E M B E R 23, 2018

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THINGSTO DO

FallSoCalFestivals

By Michele E. Buttelman Signal Staff Writer

rom Santa Clarita to Goleta, from Tehachapi to San Diego, there’s a festival waiting for you. Apples, lemons, avocados, art and music are all waiting for their day in the sun this fall season of festivals. There are family-friendly festivals and adults-only events. Grab the family and take the Amtrak Surfliner or head off by car to destinations that include fun, games, contests, food, live music and a variety of vendors. Festival fun awaits!

Santa Clarita Chalk Festival

Sept. 23 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday Info: http://otna.org. Old Town Newhall on Main Street, between 6th and the Roundabout. The Santa Clarita Chalk Festival is presented by the Old Town Newhall Association. Over the course of three days, artists from throughout Southern California, professional, amateur, students and the public will take to the pavement armed with pastel chalks to create masterpieces. The theme is “Wit, Wonder and Whimsy.” This is a family-friendly event and all levels of artists are welcome.

Ohana Music Festival

Sept. 28-30 Friday, Saturday, Sun-

Adrey Rieckhoff looks at her drawing of a dragon in a bath during the Youth Arts Showcase at the Santa Clarita Sports Complex. FILE PHOTO

day noon to 10 p.m. Doheny State Beach, 25300 Dana Point Harbor Drive, Dana Point, Info: www.ohanafest.com In addition to offering a full day in the sun with a diverse music lineup, Ohana will donate a portion of proceeds to the San Onofre Parks Foundation, a California nonprofit

that cooperatively works with the California State Parks to develop, preserve and enhance the recreation and experience of California's unique and beautiful coastal parks. Festival general admission allows roaming throughout the lush grass areas of Doheny State Beach, right off the shore of the Pacific Ocean, touching

0% APR FOR 72 MONTHS

Canyon Theatre Guild Just in time for Halloween... Dark and Delicious... Not suitable for young children

Sponsor:

Fridays at 8 pm: 10/19, 26 Saturdays at 2 pm: 10/13, 20, 27 Saturdays at 8 pm: 9/22, 29, 10/6, 13, 20, 27 Sundays at 2 pm: 9/23, 30, 10/7, 14, 21 Tickets: Jrs/Srs $17-19 Adults: $19-21

24242 Main St., Newhall 91321 www.CanyonTheatre.org Call Now for reservations!

(661) 799-2702

Twin $139

the sand. A limited number of VIP passes will also be available. Craft beer, wine, signature cocktails, as well as artisan food options from local restaurants and food trucks will be available. Friday performances feature Eric Church, Norah Jones, Amos Lee, See FESTIVALS, page 28 OR

NO CREDIT NEEDED

King $299

SANTA CLARITA 91350

26537 Bouquet Cyn Rd. #G (Next to Trader Joe’s and Best Buy)

(661) 430-8660

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S E P T E M B E R 23, 2018

THINGSTO DO

FESTIVALS

Continued from page 27

Saturday performances feature Eddie Vedder, Yeah Yeah Yeahs, Liz Phair, Sunday performances feature Mumford & Sons, Beck, Young the Giant. Daily tickets: $99.75, VIP $499.

Oxnard Banana Festival Saturday, Sept. 29 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Port of Hueneme, 105 E Port Hueneme Road, Port Hueneme Info: https://bananaportfest.com Family-friendly festival with free admission and parking. Go bananas at the port with tasty banana treats, live bands, and the cool ocean breezes. Learn about the inner-workings of the port! Tours by land and sea scheduled hourly. Kids can enjoy bounce houses, bungee, games, reptile exhibits and do banana crafts. The event also features live bands, sandwiches, sushi wraps, banana splits and shakes, funnel cakes, vendors, boutique clothing, hand crafted jewelry, garden art and more. The Port of Hueneme is a working deep-water port. The Banana Festival is a way to bring people out to learn about the port.

The 27th Annual California Lemon Festival Sept. 29-30 Saturday 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Sunday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. 7050 Phelps Road, Goleta, (805) 967-2500 Info: https://lemonfestival.com A weekend of family fun, food, entertainment and activities includes the Goleta Fall Classic Car and Street Rod Show, pie-eating contests and arts and crafts vendors. Admission is free to the festival, activity wristband for purchase for children’s fun zone area. Getting there: From the Santa Clarita Valley: Head west on Hwy 126 take northbound 101 freeway and exit at Storke Road. Turn left onto Storke Road. Follow Festival Parking signs to parking lots off on Santa Felicia and Phelps Road.

Ventura Harvest Festival Original Art & Craft Show Oct, 5-7, Friday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Saturday 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Sunday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Ventura County Fairgrounds, 10 W. Harbor Blvd., Ventura General admission $9, parking $5. Info: www.harvestfestival.com

Features thousands of handmade American arts & crafts including jewelry, clothing, specialty foods, photography, hand-turned wood, ceramics and unique home décor.

The 32nd Annual Avocado Festival

Oct. 5-7 Friday, Saturday, Sunday 800 Linden Ave., Carpinteria Info: www.avofest.com The California Avocado Festival is Carpinteria’s largest family-friendly community celebration and one of the largest free festivals in the country. Avocado inspired food (try the avocado ice cream), a wide variety of live music, arts & crafts, vendors and the world’s largest vat of guacamole. The event features 75 musical acts on four stages, the Avocado Expo Tent home to avocado agricultural photos, historical photos, lessons in avocado grafting, FFA restored antique tractors, and the Largest Avocado Contest. The food venue features creative avocado dishes, the kids’ venue is the home to the Best Dressed Avocado Contest, fun games, face painting and family fun. The World-Famous Guacamole contest and Avocado Auction will be held Sunday at the Guac and Grotto Stage on 8th Street! Getting there: From the Santa Clarita Valley: Head west on Hwy 126 take northbound 101 freeway and exit at Casitas Pass Road. Turn right onto Casitas Pass Road Follow Park N Ride signs to Foothill Road turn left on Foothill. Follow signs to parking lot (900 Linden Ave.) and jump on the school bus pick up to the Festival. The Amtrak Pacific Surfliner offers train service from a number of stations

The Santa Clarita Chalk Festival is presented by the Old Town Newhall Association. Over the course of three days, artists from throughout Southern California, professional, amateur, students and the public will take to the pavement armed with pastel chalks to create masterpieces. FILE PHOTO

convenient to the SCV including Van Nuys, Chatsworth, Simi Valley, Oxnard or Ventura, with a stop in Carpinteria. Take in the magnificent Southern California coastline with free wi-ri, Cafe Car (including guacamole) and beautiful views. The Carpinteria Station is located off Linden Avenue, just a short walk from the festival. Info/tickets: www.pacificsurfliner.com.

Santa Barbara Harbor & Seafood Festival Oct. 13 Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Santa Barbara Harbor, Harbor Way, Santa Barbara Info: www.HarborFestival.org The annual Harbor and Seafood Festival is Santa Barbara’s signature autumn event. Timed with the opening of lobster season, the festival is presented by the city, Commercial Fishermen of Santa Barbara, Inc., Santa Barbara Harbor Merchants’ Association, and the Santa Barbara Maritime Museum. Festival-goers will meet local fishermen and enjoy fresh lobster, crab, prawns, and other local-caught seafood. Live entertainment and other family-oriented activities. Event admission is free.

Tehachapi Apple Festival Oct. 13-14 Saturday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Sunday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Downtown Tehachapi: Green Street and Tehachapi Blvd.

Centennial Plaza, 115 S. Robinson St., Tehachapi Info: www.tehachapiapplefestival. com Free admission, family friendly fun event with Kids Zone, local apples, pie eating and baking contest, carnival, face painting, petting zoo, modern day apple bobbing, live music, beer garden for adults, apple related items and food, hand crafted local artisan gifts, vendors, car show on Sunday 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

The 28th Annual Sherman Oaks Street Fair Sunday, Oct. 21 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. On Ventura Boulevard between Van Nuys and Kester Info: https://shermanoaksstreetfair. org Presented by the Sherman Oaks Chamber of Commerce the Sherman Oaks Street Fair is the largest event of its kind in the San Fernando Valley. The event features more than 250 vendors, main stage entertainment, community stage, on-site animal adoptions, carnival, car show, food trucks, bar and more. The carnival will feature a 45° Ferris Wheel, a rock-climbing wall, bull riding and a human gyroscope. New this year is a 30-foot high zip line at the corner of Van Nuys and Ventura. 

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S C V F E AT U R E

IN SEARCH OF SOMETHING BETTER Better pay behind a soaring quit rate By Tammy Murga Signal Staff Writer

eople are quitting their jobs at a record rate not seen since the start of the world wide web in the 1990s, or the internet bubble, a recent Labor Department report revealed. Confidence in the labor market is among the motivations for this now-common movement, analysts say. The latest Job Openings and Labor Turnover Survey, for July, showed that the number of workers who voluntarily quit increased by 300,000 to 3.6 million. That left the “quit rate” at 2.4 percent, the highest in just more than 17 years. Job openings reached 6.9 million, with a rate of 4.4 percent. These openings increased in finance, insurance and manufacturing, and decreased in retail, education and the federal government. While the number of job openings did not significantly change from the figures in the previous report, there are still more jobs available than there are unemployed individuals.

$ Why people quit

A representative from the L.A. County Community Development Commission talks with someone in search of a job at the America’s Job Center of California Hiring Fest on April 28, 2017. SIGNAL FILE PHOTO.

WHILE THE NUMBER OF JOB OPENINGS DID NOT SIGNIFICANTLY CHANGE, THERE ARE STILL MORE JOBS AVAILABLE THAN THERE ARE UNEMPLOYED INDIVIDUALS.

Economists often use the quit rate as a measure of the job market, and they believe numbers demonstrated in the JOLT report indicate that the economy is booming. “When the economy is good, people quit when they feel confident they can find another job,” said Eric Hayes, research analyst with the Los Angeles County Economic Development Corp. Many are in search of something more suitable, one factor being

higher pay. A way out of poverty due to the high cost of living is among the motivations, Hayes added. Age also comes into play when analyzing the quit rate, he said. “Millennials (individuals born between 1981 and 1996) are much more likely to think of a career regarding ‘job hopping,’” Hayes said, “where you learn something, get the skills and jump to something else.” Jeffrey Forrest, vice president of

Economic Development at College of the Canyons, said job hopping is notably higher in manufacturing in the Santa Clarita Valley. “One of the (contributing factors) to this is low starting salaries for manufacturing jobs,” he said. “But this is no longer alarming because employers realize this is normal. People are there for a year at most, get their experience and then switch to a higher-paying job.” This trend is toward individuals looking to have multiple careers over their lifetime, rather than jobs, where skills are translated from one field to the other. “As this has become more commonplace, it has also become more accepted as the new norm by younger workers,” said Holly Schroeder,

president and CEO of the Santa Clarita Valley Economic Development Corp. With more job openings in higher-paying jobs, said Tyler Laferriere, a research analyst with LAEDC, more people start to question, “Should I quit and take another opportunity?” Workers who do not feel appreciated by their employers or do not see a future in the field also question whether to quit their jobs, which Forrest said is particularly true of younger generations. Human resources professionals have found this trend cycles until about one’s fourth job, the one they settle in, Laferriere said. See BETTER, page 30

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BETTER

Continued from page 29

What the quit rate might bring With a rise in the quit rate, research analysts believe wage gains could accelerate as it may push employers to offer higher pay and benefits. For those switching jobs, a high

S E P T E M B E R 23, 2018 Hundreds attend the Job & Career Fair hosted by College of the Canyons in the east gymnasium at COC in 2015. PHOTO BY DAN WATSON

rate might mean more competition among workers. Laferriere suggests that those planning to leave a job should have a plan. “Anyone quitting a job to find a better one or go to school or any other option should be prepared,” he said. “Have an idea of where to go next.” 

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SCVSCHOOLS

CLIP N SAVE

SCV school districts

(choice of one entree, seasonal fruit and milk)

Menus courtesy of Santa Clarita Valley School • Castaic USD Food Services which • Newhall USD serves: • Saugus USD • Sulphur Springs USD

Elementary School Menus

Monday, Sept. 24 Tuesday, Sept. 25 Wednesday, Sept. 26 Thursday, Sept. 27 Friday, Sept. 28

BREAKFAST

LUNCH

Banana Muffin & String Cheese Breakfast Bun Cereal Chilled Fruit Fruit Juice

Bean & Cheese Burrito Popcorn Chicken Hot Dog on a Bun Smart Choice Pizza Seasonal Salad Bar

Cinnamon Toast Breakfast Bun Cereal Chilled Fruit Fresh Fruit

Chicken Taco Dippin' Chicken & Sauce Cheeseburger Smart Choice Pizza Seasonal Salad Bar

Breakfast Bagel Breakfast Bun Cereal Chilled Fruit Fresh Fruit

Chicken Enchilada Chicken Sandwich Spicy Chicken Sandwich Smart Choice Pizza Seasonal Salad Bar Celebration Cookie

Strawberry Splash Mini Pancakes Breakfast Bun Cereal Chilled Fruit Fresh Fruit

Rodeo Roundup Burger & Spicy Curly Fries Cheeseburger Dippin' Chicken & Sauce PBJ Sandwich & String Cheese Smart Choice Pizza Seasonal Salad Bar Chicken Fiesta Bowl Chicken Sandwich Spicy Chicken Sandwich Smart Choice Pizza Seasonal Salad Bar Manager's Choice

Skillet Omelet & Tortilla Breakfast Bun Cereal Chilled Fruit Fruit Juice

Cub Scouts host barbecue at Hart Park By Ryan Mancini Signal Staff Writer

nder the cover of William S. Hart Park’s trees, Cub Scout Pack 490 held its Fun Day and barbecue for children interested in joining the program on Saturday. “Since we do an annual barbecue, it’s like a kickoff for the school year,” said cubmaster Eden Reagan. “And it gets everyone together, just talking and getting to know each other better, because this is a pack event.” Situated at the park’s picnic area, the pack set up multiple stations for

boys and girls to learn skills related to the scouting program. This included setting up a tent, how to build a mock fire, using Nerf bows and darts for archery, taking a short hike in the park and making individual neckerchief slides different from the standard Cub Scout slide. Children also had the option to take part in a watermelon eating contest, Reagan said. While boys signed up to join Pack 490, no girls were recruited during Saturday’s barbecue, she said. Girls interested in joining would need a parent to serve a role in the pack, she added.

Pack 490 currently has 20 cubs, and while the event was designed to bring in new faces, Saturday was not the last day to join. “Kids can register any time,” she said. “The membership registration dues cover the entire school year.” While the current group is finishing up its rank requirements before February for an upcoming Blue and Gold Ceremony, new members can still work on their badges, she said. “This is a great pack of parents and families to be involved,” Reagan said. “Everybody has a place. If they want to do something, there’s something for them to do.”

PHOTO BY RYAN MANCINI

If anyone would like more information about recruitment, they can visit pack490.org/contact. 

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S E P T E M B E R 23, 2018

YOURHOME

PLUMBING 101

Ed. note: This story is the first in a two-part series looking at ways that homeowners can save big money on their plumbing appliances around the home with a little bit of upkeep. Part I takes a look at the maintenance for any potential wear and tear water can cause throughout the home, while next week, Part II will take a look at maintaining the appliances that keeps the water in your home flowing. By Michele E. Buttelman Signal Staff Writer

f you’re a homeowner you’ve probably had a plumbing disaster, or two, or three. If you’ve never had the pleasure, all I can say is, “Wait for it...” It will happen when you least expect it and, more importantly, when you can least afford it. Clogged drains, leaking pipes, overflowing toilets, ruptured water heaters — I’ve had them all in 40 years of home ownership. For years, my ceilings bore the stains of numerous pinhole leaks from the cheap galvanized pipes commonly used in home construction in the 1970s. My bathroom has survived numerous episodes of overflowing toilets and leaking toilet seals. Many plumbing catastrophes can be avoided by simple, regular

maintenance, according to Kirk Stinson, owner of Plumbing by Kirk in Saugus. “Maintenance, maintenance, maintenance,” he said. “Take care of your stuff, and it will take care of you.”

Hard water The water in the Santa Clarita Valley can cause homeowners concern with “foggy” shower doors, scale build-up and foul taste. The “hard” SCV water is a result of dissolved minerals, like calcium and magnesium in the water. “I recommend installing a good quality water filtration system and tying it in with your refrigerator,” said Stinson. “You will get good tasting water and ice cubes as a result.” For shower doors, Stinson uses Rain-X to keep the glass clear.

“The hard water is really bad for everything in your home. It makes faucets fail and it makes the pipes and drain lines brittle,” he said. He also recommends having your water tested before installing any soft water system.

Water pressure The No. 1 cause of many plumbing woes is high water pressure, said Stinson. Water pressure that is too high can damage system components, like faucets, water heaters and dishwashers. “Buy yourself a water pressure gauge,” said Stinson. He recommends testing your water pressure quarterly. “Put it on the calendar, like changing the oil in your car, it is that important,” said Stinson. “We get a lot of calls where someone says, ‘I’ve got four faucets leaking and my toilet is making a sound.’ When you hear about multiple sounds, or multiple leaks, we automatically take a pressure check first.” Stinson said if the water pressure reading exceeds 80 pounds, homeowners should make sure their water-pressure regulator is functioning properly. Most likely, it’ll need to be replaced. Stinson recommends

that every homeowner check their water pressure every quarter. “If your regulator fails it can blow the supply lines to the washing machine and major floods can happen,” he said. “High water pressure can blow the supply lines to the water heater and cause the water heater to leak sooner than it needs to.” Stinson said nearly every house in the SCV needs a water pressure regulator. “It is rare to find a house without a regulator where the pressure doesn’t exceed 80 pounds, but there are few neighborhoods,” he said. Stinson said regulators used to last 6 to 8 years, but with declining quality control standards many regulators now fail far short of that benchmark. “Now, with our hard water, and we all know how bad it is, I won’t even predict how long a regulator will last, sometimes it won’t even last the year it is under warranty,” he said.

Toilets The constant running toilet is not only annoying, it can cost a pretty penny. In droughtracked California, it’s wasting a precious resource. A running toilet is usually a pretty easy fix, and often has to do with the float that raises and lowers with the water level in the upper tank. Knowing which part to adjust might take a little research or general know-how. However, sometimes a running toilet requires part replacement in the upper tank to truly solve the problem. Tank-repair kits are easy to find at local home improvement stores. Anyone with basic “handy” experience with proper tools can usually replace toilet tank parts. The wax seal that keeps the water from leaking at the base of the toilet is best replaced by a professional. Luckily, it’s not a problem that shows up too often. 

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S U N D AYS I G N A L · 33

FOODSTUFF

Winning Back Weeknight Cooking

oms pride themselves on serving their families wholesome, homemade meals. But here’s the reality: 60 percent of moms think that coming up with dinner ideas is more difficult than getting their children to go to bed on time. Moreover, 61 percent of moms frequently order takeout or go out to eat because they don’t have the ingredients on-hand to make dinner. It’s time for a new strategy. When it comes to mealtime, a well-stocked pantry can be the difference between culinary success and a dinner failure. With a pantry full of canned foods, a delicious and nutritious homemade meal is just minutes away. It’s no secret that canned foods are convenient, but did you know that cans are also one of the best ways to get food from the farm to your

family’s table? Canned fruits and vegetables are picked and packed when they’re at their peak of ripeness and nutrition, sealing in their freshness and flavor. Just like home canning, the canning process locks in foods’ natural goodness so it’s at arm’s reach whenever you’re ready to get cooking. A pantry stocked with canned ingredients is also a source of recipe inspiration. Staples such as canned chicken, corn, green chilies, olives, beans and tomatoes atop lettuce combine to create a wholesome “Chicken Burrito Salad” the whole family will enjoy. And in less than 30 minutes, a box of fettuccine and a can of spinach transform into a hearty “Pasta with Spinach Pesto.” For more information, recipe inspiration and the benefits of canned foods, visit CansGetYouCooking.com. — Family Features

AC H P N I P S H T I PA STA W

E STO

minutes Prep time: 10 minutes Cook time: 15 Serves: 4 ell drained nces) spinach, w ou 5 3. (1 n ca 1 rsley leaves 1 cup fresh pa esan cheese rm Pa 1/2 cup grated almonds or ts 1/2 cup walnu c clove 1 large garli ied basil 1 teaspoon dr lt sa on 1/4 teaspo er ound black pepp gr on 1/8 teaspo l oi e iv virgin ol 1/2 cup extranoodles nces) fettuccine ou 6 cheese, nuts, 1 box (1 ach, parsley, in sp e in b m ssor, co slow, steady In food proce d pepper; blend well. In d smooth. salt an is blended an re tu garlic, basil, ix m l ti n olive oil u ss spinach stream, add ts. Drain. To ec ir d e ag k ine as pac Cook fettucc uccine. tt pesto with fe

C H IC K E N BU

Prep time: 15 minutes Serves: 6

R R I T O SA L A

Salad: 1 small head ro maine lettuce, torn into small pieces 1 cup cooked brown rice 1 can (15 ounc es) black beans, dr ained and rinsed 1 can (14 ounc es) diced tomatoe s 1 can (10 ounc es) chicken breast chunks, drained an 1 can (10 ounc d flaked es) corn kernels, dr ained 1 can (4.25 ou nces) diced green chilies, drained 1 can (2.2 ounc es) sliced ripe blac k olives, drained Dressing: 2 tablespoons fresh-squeezed lim e juice 1 tablespoon fresh chopped cilan tro 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil salt and ground bl ack pepper, to tast e Salad: In larg e platter or in dividual bowls with brown ri , place lettuce ce, black bean leaves. Top s, diced tomat chilies and bl oes, chicken, ack olives. corn, green Dressing: In small bowl, co mbine lime ju olive oil. Add ice and cilantr salt and pepp o; whisk in er, to taste. D rizzle dressin g over salad.

SOUTHERN STYLE SUCCOTASH with Sweet Corn Sauce

Prep time: 15 minutes Cook time: 20 minutes Serves: 4

4 ounces olive oil 1 can (14.5 ounces) sweet corn kernels, drain ed 1 can (15.5 ounces) butter beans 1 can (15 ounces) sweet peas 1/2 cup sliced canned carrots, drained and diced 1/4 cup canned diced tomatoes 8 sprigs fresh thyme 1 fresh bay leaf salt and pepper, to taste Add olive oil to large skillet and quic kly saute all ingredients with salt and pep per until heated through, about 5 minutes . Serve on top of Sweet Corn Sauce.

Sweet Corn Sauce 6 ounces canned corn, excess liquid strained off 3 ounces champagne or dry white wine 4 tablespoons butter salt pepper thyme sprigs In blender, puree corn and champagn e until very smooth. Strain through fine strainer and place strained corn juic e in small saucepan. Heat until simmering and slowly add cold butter, salt, pepper and fresh thyme.

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S E P T E M B E R 23, 2018

E AT W E L L

Asian fusion at My Hot Pot By Michelle Sathe Signal Staff Writer

ack in 1999, I was living in Shanghai, China, a Southern California girl trying to find her way in a very foreign land. What I enjoyed exploring most there was the food. I quickly forged an affinity for hot pot, basically, a huge vat of boiling broth with your choice of meats and vegetables, which you dipped until cooked and finished off with an exotic sauce. It was like nothing I’d ever had back home. My Hot Pot in Saugus takes that concept and makes it even more unique, fusing tastes from all over Asia into individual hot pots overflowing with tasty treasures. The one of-a-kind concept was created by owners Sunn Wee and his fiancé, Nook Budsaeng, of Saugus. They met while working at Mr. Sushi in Valencia, and decided that they wanted to open a restaurant together. Originally, Wee was set on a ramen spot, until he got sick for an extended period and Budsaeng tended to him with her special hot pots. “It really helped me get better,” Wee said. “Plus, we wanted to do something different and new.” My Hot Pot opened in January 2017. Wee and Budsaeng oversaw every detail and even helped with the construction. The result is a warm, intimate, yet modern space with wood elements and industrial touches throughout. Both act as chefs in the small kitchen, but Budsaeng was the one who created the menu from “family recipes and YouTube,” rather informal training for such thoughtful, well-executed food. Appetizers include Dragon Ball

($6.95) or lightly fried fish balls with crispy basil leaves and sweet chili sauce. The crispy pork toro ($7.95), or deep fried pork belly, are decadent chunks of deliciousness, served with a Thai chile lime sauce that cuts the richness and adds a welcome bit of heat. For the main event, there are nine different hot pots with Thai, Korean, Japanese and Chinese influences, such as the “Meat” or “Seafood Lover,” “Premium Miso,” “Hot Spicy Taiwanese” and “Kimchi Power” ($12.95 to $15.95 dinner or $10.95 to $12.95 lunch). “Nook takes the best elements of every culture and fits it into one bowl,” Wee said proudly.

The broth for each is bone-based and simmered for 10 hours (with the exception of the vegetarian option, the “Veggie Lover”), with flavors and spices added for each version. You choose the heat level from mild to spicy, as well as two of seven sauces that are made fresh in-house from Budsaeng’s recipes. The “Tom Yummy” ($13.95) boasts a beautiful red broth fragrant with notes of lemongrass and chiles, served in a small metal wok over an open flame so it stays hot throughout your meal. There’s so much good stuff going on here, it’s hard to know where to start. Tender bits of pork loin and belly are especially savory when paired with the rich, smoky Shacha sauce made with

PHOTOS BY MICHELLE SATHE

S E P T E M B E R 23, 2018

sesame oil, shallots and shrimp paste. Or pluck out the shrimp, clams, fish balls, squid and thick chunks of white fish, for which the piquant spicy bean makes a great pairing. What’s amazing, besides the amount of food, is that all the elements have the perfect texture, from the tender meats to the springy ramen noodles to the crisp yet pliant cabbage, carrot, corn on the cob and squash. As if that weren’t enough, you’ll also get a side of rice, plus some garlic and cilantro to add to the mix. Whew. “This is our community,” Wee said, “we have to feed them well.” That you do, My Hot Pot. That you do. My Hot Pot, 26238 Bouquet Canyon Road, Santa Clarita. Open Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. and 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. Saturday noon to 10 p.m. Sunday noon to 9 p.m. Closed Wednesday. For more information, call (661) 288-1998 or visit www.myhotpot.co. 

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S E P T E M B E R 23, 2018

PERSONALITYPROFILE:

By Michele E. Buttelman Signal Staff Writer

s a young girl, Dianne White Crawford discovered her love of movies in the Wilshire Movie Theater in Fullerton. As her mother worked in the nearby beauty salon, Crawford and her sister Sandee would spend the day watching cartoons, newsreels and features in the darkened theater. “I’ve always been this huge, huge fan of movies,” said Crawford.

Moving to California Crawford was born in Washington D.C. to Kenneth and Millie Durham White. During WWII, her father was a diver for the Navy. “He went to Pearl Harbor and retrieved bodies from the sunken ships,” she said. Nearly 20 ships were sunk or damaged and 2,403 died when the Japanese bombed Pearl Harbor in a surprise attack on Dec, 7, 1941. After the war, the family moved to

California. “One day, my father got on an airplane at Fullerton airport and crashed into the San Bernardino Mountains and was killed,” she said. “After everything he had been through in the war and to come home and then get killed in a private plane crash…” Crawford was only 14 months old. “We moved in with my grandparents after my father died,” she said. Her mother soon reconnected with an old friend from high school and they married. “I had a fabulous stepfather,” she said. “They had a baby together, my half-sister, Sandee.” It was during these years that Crawford’s love affair with movies began. “On Saturdays, it was my job to babysit my sister. I would take her to the movie theater and we would watch two features, newsreels, cartoons and my mother would work,” she said. “On Sunday evenings, my father always had a poker game at our house so my mother and sister and I would go to the movies again. Movies became my life.”

Finding her match Dianne and Wayne Crawford both attended Fullerton High School in Orange County, but they didn’t run in the same circles. “I met Wayne in high school, but at the time, I didn’t like him; I didn’t want

Carousel, a 14 month-old Labradoodle, gets her belly rubbed in Dianne Crawford's home office, decorated with hundreds family photos. PHOTO BY DAN WATSON

to have anything to do with him,” she said. “He was the big man on campus and he was a track star.” Wayne Crawford was indeed a track and field star, he held the record in the pole vault at Fullerton High School for 30 years. Dianne Crawford had been accepted at Washington State University, but declined to attend because she wanted to be near her high school boyfriend who was staying in Southern California to attend college. “I just couldn’t leave him. He broke up with me a week after college started,” she said. “I was attending Woodbury College in Los Angeles.” Dianne Crawford had moved to Los Angeles to attend college, but often came “home” to Fullerton during the weekends. Dianne Crawford stands in the guest suite she designed in her home. PHOTO BY DAN WATSON

S E P T E M B E R 23, 2018

“I was home one weekend, and a friend called and asked if I wanted to go over to Wayne Crawford’s house. He was home for the weekend from (University of California, Berkeley),” said Crawford. Crawford said she was “moping around the house after her breakup” and her friend was trying to cheer her up. Crawford finally relented. “We went to my favorite hamburger place in Anaheim called Armstrong’s. Then, we drove down to the beach,” Dianne Crawford recalled. “At the end of the day I thought, ‘Wayne’s not so bad.’” Things really heated up when the end of the weekend came and Crawford expected her parents, or a friend, to drive

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 37

her back to Los Angeles. As she was getting her things together to return to school the doorbell rang. She was surprised to find Wayne Crawford at her front door. “I asked him what he was doing at my house,” she said. “Wayne said, ‘Your dad said I could take you back to school.’” Crawford said the couple have been together ever since. On Aug. 22, the couple celebrated their 54th wedding anniversary. “I always knew Wayne was the best man I would ever meet,” said Crawford. “His word was gospel. He would do anything for anybody. He was so generous.”

A shaky start in their new home Crawford earned her bachelor’s degree in Fine Arts, with an emphasis in Fashion Design. “I designed childrens’ clothing after graduation,” she said. Her budding fashion career came to an end when the head designer told her she needed to scale back the number of button and rickrack in her designs because of the expense. “I didn’t realize at that time that everything is about money,” she said. “I thought they were crushing my creativity, so I quit. I thought, ‘I’ll just stay at home and have children.’” The Crawfords moved to Sun Valley after Wayne was hired at Lockheed. Their daughter Jacque was born, and the couple decided they needed a bigger house. “We moved to Valencia in 1969, when I was pregnant with Keith and we moved to the tract of homes across from the hospital (Henry Mayo),” she said. At the time, Orchard Village Road didn’t connect to Lyons Avenue and the I-5 freeway wasn’t complete. “There wasn’t much out here then. We shopped at the Thriftimart on Lyons Avenue (the current location of the 99 Cents store) and had to go the long way around to get there,” she said. Their son, Keith, was a premature baby. He was in and out of hospitals often the first few years of his young life. The couple’s third child, Kyle, was born in 1972.

Working for The Signal

Above: Dianne updates the list of movies she has watched since the 1990's. PHOTOS BY DAN WATSON

One of the jobs that Crawford remembers fondly is her work at The Signal newspaper in the late 1970s. The Signal, at that time, was owned by Scott and Ruth Newhall. Crawford said she worked in downtown Newhall as the newspaper’s “gofer” on Sundays and Mondays. “I wasn’t doing anything creative, I was just answering phones, running errands and bringing Scott lunch. He didn’t like sprouts on his sandwiches I learned. Then Tony Newhall fired me because they were cutting back. I went into a huge depression because I loved it,” she said. “I knew that working for Scott and Ruth was a once in a lifetime

thing. They were just such unique people.”

Sand Canyon, teaching and American Airlines In 1979, the couple moved to Sand Canyon. Crawford began teaching and discovered she loved it. She worked as a substitute teacher and also earned a full-time teaching job at Castaic Middle School. At Castaic, she created a history presentation about clothing worn by First Ladies of the United States using her fashion design training. FIDM (Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandizing) in Los Angeles hired her to visit high schools and present her program. “I ran into a girl whose mother I had known for years,” she said. “The girl told me her mom gave up teaching and went to work for the airlines. I sent out my resume and American Airlines called, and the rest is history.” She went to work for the airline in 1997 as a customer service agent, and later became a flight attendant. “I loved that job because I wanted to see the world,” she said. “First, I wanted to see America. I had never been out of California. I made it a point to travel everywhere I could in America because I loved American history.”

Extra, extra Crawford has also worked as a film “extra” and as a model. She played an extra in the films “Freddy’s Dead,” “Hanging Up,” “Fisher King,” “Bedazzled,” “Ready to Rumble” and others. “I got into SAG through the back door,” she said. She earned her SAG card by appearing in commercials for American Airlines. When the Crawford’s son Kyle married Jeanna another opportunity opened up for Dianne Crawford. “When Jeanna came into the family, she was one of the top plus-size models in California and was represented by LA Models,” said Crawford. “She brought her wedding photos into the agency and when they saw my photo they asked to see me.” Crawford worked as a print and commercial model. Her most lucrative commercial to date is a commercial for See CRAWFORD, page 44

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S E P T E M B E R 23, 2018

To Your Good Health By Keith Roach, M.D. Signal Contributing Editor

COMMON PAIN RELIEVER CAN HAVE SIDE EFFECTS Dear Dr. Roach: I am a 44-year-old man with chronic headaches and migraines. Should I worry about the long-term effects of taking an NSAID (such as diclofenac) at least once a week? — G.W. Answer: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as aspirin, ibuprofen and naproxen are among the most commonly taken classes of drugs in the world, with 17 million Americans alone taking them daily. Although these drugs are generally safe, any medication has the potential for side effects. Typically, the higher the dose and the more frequently it is taken, the increased risk of side effects. So, a once-a-week dose would be expected to have a low side effect risk. Adverse effects from this class are among the most frequently seen in clinical medicine. Although they can affect multiple systems, let me briefly go over the side effects of NSAIDs on the GI tract, kidneys and heart. NSAIDs might affect the stomach, and although we think of ulcers, stomach pain without ulcers is more common. Ulcers happen most often in people who take higher doses for long periods of time. A history of ulcers, older age and use of other medications (steroids, warfarin, antiplatelet drugs like clopidogrel, or Plavix) increase the risk of ulcers and bleeding. NSAIDs also might affect the small bowel and colon, causing bleeding and diarrhea, among other symptoms. Again, these are most common in high doses for extended periods. NSAIDs can affect the kidneys, causing both acute and chronic kidney failure, but only in a few percent of people. Periodic blood and urine examination is appropriate for people who are on long-term NSAIDs. The risk of heart disease among

people who use NSAIDs regularly is increased, but in people without known heart disease, the risk is small — about one bad event, such as heart attack, stroke or episode of heart failure, per thousand people taking the medication for a year. I would advise you that the risk of any of these side effects is unlikely in someone taking the drug only once a week, but people who take these drugs every day should know about the potential harms. Dear Dr. Roach: When I was 64, a cyst was found in my bladder. When the cyst was removed, it was found to be cancerous. My urologist wants me to continue to have an annual cystoscopy, which I do. I'm now 76 and in good health. Do you feel the annual cystoscopy is still necessary? — C.K. Answer: Now that more people have had successful treatment of cancer, we are starting to learn about the risks they face in subsequent years. The risk of another cancer is generally higher, but it's the exact form of cancer that determines how much risk there is, and consequently, how aggressive follow-up must be. In the case of bladder cancer, I have read some studies that the risk is quite small after five years. However, the American Urologic Association has clear guidelines: Because of the increased risk for recurrence, it recommends annual cystoscopy indefinitely. Cystoscopy is a pretty safe procedure, so I think your urologist's recommendation is reasonable. Dr. Roach regrets that he is unable to answer individual letters, but will incorporate them in the column whenever possible. Readers may email questions to ToYourGoodHealth@med. cornell.edu. To view and order health pamphlets, visit www.rbmamall.com, or write to Good Health, 628 Virginia Drive, Orlando, FL 32803.  ©2018 North America Synd., Inc.

Does gluten-free benefit everyone?

any people eat gluten-free diets despite not having Celiac disease, a condition that requires people to avoid gluten. However, a voluntary gluten censorship may not be all that it’s cracked up to be. If the number of gluten-free products stocking store shelves and appearing on restaurant menus are any indication, then the general public has embraced gluten-free living. Less than 1 percent of Americans are gluten-intolerant or afflicted with Celiac disease. Despite this, the popularity of gluten-free diets tripled between 201314, according to reports from The Kitchn. Although people who are sensitive to gluten may feel better avoiding it, Dr. Daniel A. Leffler, director of clinical research at the Celiac Center at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center in Boston, has said others will derive no significant benefit from gluten avoidance and will simply waste money buying the more expensive gluten-free alternatives. People with perceived gluten sensitivities may not have aversions to gluten at all. People with self-reported non-celiac gluten sensitivity, gluten only caused negative symptoms when subjects knew they were eating it, according to a study conducted by Monash University and published in 2013. When they believe the food to be something else, participants experienced no symptoms. Other medical experts say that gluten may not be to blame for sensitivity, which may be a result of fermentable, poorly absorbed, shortchain carbohydrates (FODMAPs), like grains, beans, dairy and some fruits. By removing the grain (gluten included), affected individuals feel better, thinking gluten is to blame.

Those with no reason to avoid gluten could be putting their health at risk by skipping wheat and other grains. A recent study from Harvard Medical School says those who avoid gluten may be harming their heart health. The study, which tracked the eating habits of 64,714 women and 45,303 men over a period of 26 years, found that long-term avoidance of gluten in adults sometimes caused the reduced consumption of heart-healthy whole grains that affect cardiovascular risk. Study leader Andrew Chan said that individuals who consumed the lowest levels of dietary gluten had a 15 percent higher risk of heart disease. The study concluded that the promotion of gluten-free diets among people for whom it is deemed medically unnecessary to avoid gluten should not be encouraged. There may be other reasons to continue to eat gluten. A study published in The British Journal of Nutrition, titled, “Effects of a gluten-free diet on gut microbiota and immune function in healthy adult human subjects,” found a gluten-free diet may adversely affect gut flora and immune function. This potentially puts people at risk for an overgrowth of harmful bacteria in their intestinal biome. Another study published in Bioscience, Biotechnology, and Biochemistry found that gluten may boost immune function. After roughly a week on added gluten protein, subjects experienced increased natural killer cell activity, which could be helpful in improving the body's ability to fight viral infections and cancer. A gluten-free diet isn't necessarily a healthy one. While such a diet may be necessary for those with Celiac disease, unless a doctor has determined a person needs to avoid gluten, it is wise to include whole grains in a balanced diet. — Metro Connection

S E P T E M B E R 23, 2018

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 39

GARDENING

Building a hydroponic garden

ydroponic gardening can change people's perceptions of what's needed to grow vibrant plants. Rather than soil, all you may need for a hydroponic garden is water to grow a variety of healthy, strong plants. Hydroponic gardening can change people's perceptions of what's needed to grow vibrant plants. Rather than soil, all you may need for a hydroponic garden is water to grow a variety of healthy, strong plants. Although it seems like a futuristic concept, hydroponics — or growing plants without soil — actually dates back many centuries. The Hanging Gardens of Babylon and The Floating Gardens of China are two of the earliest examples of hydroponics. Hydroponic gardening is a method of growing plants in a water-based, nutrient-rich solution. Instead of soil, roots are supported by an inert material, such as pellets, perlite, or vermiculite. Some people use coconut fiber, sand or gravel, as well, according to Fullbloom Hydroponics. The key is that the substance not supply any additional nutrition to the plant. In some instances, the roots grow in water alone. Hydroponics works so well because the person doing the gardening can directly control the nutrients, oxygen and light according to what the plant needs. A nutrition-based water-delivery system delivers food to the roots in a highly soluble form, rather than the roots having to search through the soil and extract the same nutrients. Absorbing food with very little effort means the plant can divert its energy to growing and flower production. This method of no-soil growth can be used just about anywhere. Although it has not yet edged out traditional farming methods, hydroponics is gaining popularity among entrepreneurs and hobbyists. An added attraction to hydroponics is its efficiency. The gardening resource Maximum Yield notes that hydroponics is ideal where traditional farming is not an option,

Make fall clean-up eco-friendly

ertain tasks become necessary once autumn arrives. Whereas spring and summer were spent tending gardens and maintaining a yard prime for entertaining, autumn is about preparing properties to survive the winter. Just as with other jobs around the house and yard, fall clean-up can be done in a manner that is respectful to the environment.

Hydroponics works so well because the person doing the gardening can directly control the nutrients, oxygen and light according to what the plant needs. METRO CREATIVE

such as in large cities where there is little to no access to agriculturally amenable land. Hydroponics can even be merged with vertical farming methods, helping to save space and increase output. Hydroponic gardens can be placed anywhere there is access to water and natural or simulated sunlight. Empty warehouses, rooftops, old shipping containers, and much more can be turned into hydroponic garden locations with minimal effort. Scientists say that there can be drastic differences in growth rates and yield from hydroponic and soil plants. The group Greentrees Hydroponics says the growth rate for a hydroponic plant can be 30 percent to 50 percent faster than a soil plant grown under the same conditions. Environmentalists tout that hydroponic gardening is also beneficial to the environment because the plants require considerably less water than those produced with soil gardening and require fewer pesticides or other amendments to thrive. Hobbyists looking to dabble in hydroponics can find many different hydroponic systems on the market today, in an array of prices and sizes. Wicking, ebb and flow, aeroponics, nutrient film, and deepwater culture are different hydroponic systems, each with their own advantages. Once gardeners get the knack of hydroponics, they may not want to turn back to traditional soil gardening again. — Metro Connection

Leave stalks, leaves It is tempting to want to cut back perennials and other greenery so a property looks neat. But as flowers and plants dry and drop to the ground, they help insulate the roots from the cold. They also provide a natural habitat and serve as a winter food source for birds and small animals.

Rake leaves sensibly Power blowers and mulchers make fast work of leaves, but at the expense of the environment. Gas-powered devices discharge fuel exhaust into the air, contributing to greenhouse gas emissions. Instead, reap the benefits of peace and quiet as well as exercise from manual raking. While raking, do not feel the need to remove every leaf. A certain amount of organic matter can be beneficial to the soil and even insulate the lawn somewhat. A leftover leaf here or there also may provide protection for insects and small

animals. For example, many native bees spend the winter in tunnels in the ground, cracks in mortar, holes in dead wood, or within hollow stems, and they need lawn and garden litter to survive.

Compost is a friend Spread a thin layer of compost on the lawn and in garden beds. Compost prevents weed growth, insulates and protects the soil and provides nutrients that will be needed once the spring busy season begins. By using compost, homeowners can reduce dependence on chemical fertilizers and weed killers.

Check for drafts, leaks Fall is an ideal time to check windows and doors for cracks where water, air or insects can enter. Seal up holes and cracks, and ensure there are no drafty areas. Drafts can cause home heating and cooling systems to work harder, expending more energy than necessary.

Collect and harvest Be sure to gather any useable garden vegetables and fruits and prepare them for storage if they cannot be consumed in the next few days. Canning is a time-honored preservation method. Herbs and seeds can be dried and saved for use later on. Vacuum seal fresh basil and parsley. Autumn yard work should be performed in as eco-friendly a fashion as possible. — Metro Connection

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S E P T E M B E R 23, 2018

SENIORLIVING

How to save more for retirement after age 50

en and women over 50 who have retirement savings deficits may need to go beyond depositing more money in their retirement accounts in order to live comfortably and pay their bills in retirement. Whether it's advice from their parents, a response to television ads urging viewers to save for retirement or their own financial savvy, many of today's young professionals recognize the importance of saving for retirement from the moment they receive their first paychecks. But men and women over 50 may not have been so practical, and many such professionals may feel a need to save more as their retirements draw ever closer. Saving for retirement might seem like a no-brainer, but the National Institute on Retirement Security notes that, in 2017, almost 40 million households in the United States had no retirement savings at all. In addition, the Employee Benefit Research Institute found that Americans have a retirement savings deficit of $4.3 trillion, meaning they have $4.3 trillion less in retirement savings than they should. Men and women over 50 who have retirement savings deficits may need to go beyond depositing more money in their retirement accounts in order to live comfortably and pay their bills in retirement. The following are a few simple ways to start saving more for retirement.

People over 50 who have retirement savings deficits may need to go beyond depositing more money in rder to live comfortably in retirement. METRO CONNECTION

Redirect nonessential expenses into savings. Some retirement accounts, such as IRAs, are governed by deposit limits. But others, such as 401(k) retirement plans, have no such limits. Men and women can examine their spending habits in an effort to find areas where they can cut back on

nonessential expenses, such as cable television subscriptions and dining out. Any money saved each month can then be redirected into savings and/or retirement accounts. Reconsider your retirement date. Deciding to work past the age of 65 is another way men and women over 50

can save more for retirement. Many professionals now continue working past the age of 65 for a variety of reasons. Some may suspect they'll grow bored in retirement, while others may keep working out of financial need. Others may simply love their jobs and want to keep going until their passion runs out. Regardless of the reason, working past the age of 65 allows men and women to keep earning and saving for retirement, while also delaying the first withdrawal from their retirement savings accounts. Reconsider your current and future living situation. Housing costs are many people's most considerable expense, and that won't necessarily change in retirement. Even men and women who have paid off their mortgages may benefit by moving to a region with lower taxes or staying in the same area but downsizing to a smaller home where their taxes and utility bills will be lower. Adults who decide to move to more affordable areas or into smaller, less expensive homes can then redirect the money they are saving into interest-bearing retirement or savings accounts. Many people begin saving for retirement the moment they cash their first professional paycheck. But even adults over the age of 50 sometimes feel a need to save more as their retirement dates draw closer, and there are many ways to do just that.  — Metro Connection

Monthly fees charged by investment firm are troubling Dear Bruce: I am 66 years old, and I have been retired for five years. My wife and I do pretty well financially. We have our money with an investment firm in a managed account, and we are currently drawing 6 percent a year. The only thing that bothers me is the monthly fee they charge us: $850 a month. You add that up over five years and that's a lot of money. Maybe I shouldn't complain. I have more money now than I did when I retired, and the direct deposit is there every month. The main question I have is, should I look around and check other

companies to see what they charge or keep what I have? — D.J. Dear D.J: You've got to be kidding! Only if you have a tremendous amount of dough would $10,000 a year not be outrageous. I would get out and start looking yesterday. *** Dear Bruce: I am retired as of 2014 after many years of working. I am married to a man who had a hard time saving money, so I had to be the saver. What would be the best way to

deal with my TSP — a federal government-sponsored retirement savings? When I was working, I contributed to it. Since I retired, I have not put any money into the plan or taken money out. As of today, it is over $93,000. I do receive a monthly annuity and a small amount of Social Security because I also worked in private industry. Recently, I received a reminder to begin making plans for how I will start receiving the money in my TSP account. I could choose monthly payments, a life annuity, a single payment, or a combination of these options. Do you have any thoughts on

the best way to handle this?

— C.M.

Dear C.M.: You've asked a bunch of questions, but I can't give you a decent answer without some more specifics. For example, you asked about choosing monthly payments. How much a month would that be? Likewise, how much of a life annuity would it be, or the combination of these options? If you get back to me and give me the specifics, maybe we can sort this out. I certainly hope so.  — Bruce Williams, United Feature Syndicate

S E P T E M B E R 23, 2018

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 41

SENIORLIVING

The health benefits of grandparent-grandchild relationships

n the not-so-distant past, extended families were the norm, with multiple generations residing on the same street if not in the same house. Today, the family unit is largely an amalgam of different situations. The rise of two-income families has pressured parents into finding childcare situations. Quite often grandparents once again step in to offer guidance and support for youngsters. This can be a good thing for both the grandparents and the grandchildren. Although a bevy of psychological research focuses on parent-child relationships, new evidence points to the benefits of the grandchild-grandparent relationship as well. Close relationships between these different demographics is often a sign of strong familial ties. A study from researchers at Boston College discovered that emotionally close ties between grandparents and adult grandchildren reduced depressive symptoms in both groups. Research at the University of Oxford among English children between the ages 11 and 16 found that close grandparent-grandchild relationships were associated with benefits including fewer emotional and behavioral problems and fewer difficulties with peers.

Grandchildren can help grandparents feel younger, and grandchildren can learn new experiences from their grandparents.

Adult and grandchildren alike benefit from relationships with their elders. Grandparents can provide a connection and exposure to different ideas while providing a link to family history and knowledge regarding traditions and customs not readily available elsewhere. Nurturing grandparent-grandchild experiences may be easy for families where grandparents live in the same house or close by. For others, it may take some effort. The following are some ways to facilitate time spent together.

· Schedule regular family reunions or get-togethers. Host or plan multi-generation events that bring the family together and expose children to various members of their family. · Promote one-on-one time. Have grandchildren spend time with grandparents in intimate settings. Alone time can be good for both and offers each undivided attention. A meal at a restaurant or time spent doing a puzzle or craft can be interesting to both generations involved. · Video chat when possible. If distance makes frequent visits challenging, use technology to bridge that gap. Send photos, letters and electronic communications. Tech-savvy grandparents can use Skype or Facetime to stay in touch and speak oneon-one with their grandchildren. · Share skills with each other. Either generation can play teacher to the other. Grandparents may have certain skills, such as baking, sewing or wood crafts, they can impart that may not be readily taught today. Children can help grandparents navigate computers, video games or sports activities. Grandchildren can help grandparents feel younger, and grandchildren can learn new experiences from their grandparents.  – Metro Connection

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S E P T E M B E R 23, 2018

PISMO

Continued from page 42

2351 Price St., (805) 773-4617, Cottage-Inn.com.

What to Do Families flock to Pismo Beach for two reasons: the beach and sand dunes. Take your time and lounge on the beach, like you would at any other oceanfront destination. Visitors love to sunbathe, surf, kayak and explore the tide pools. The more adventurous can visit the Ocean Dunes Natural Preserve. The Preserve is one of the most extensive coastal dune areas left in California and offers miles of protected sand dunes to let your inner-child unleash. Take your own all-terrain vehicles for a ride on the dunes and sand bowls or rent ATV’s of all sizes for family members of all ages from Sun Buggy Fun Rentals. Smaller ATV pricing starts at $60 for 4 hours and goes up from there. Sun Buggy Fun TOP: The more adventurous can visit the Ocean Dunes Natural Preserve. BOTTOM: The Pismo Clam is one of the largest clams found along California coastlines and can grow to seven inches.

Rentals, 328 Pier Ave, (866) 7284443, SunBuggy.com. For a truly unique family experience, take the family clamming. The Pismo Clam is one of the largest clams found along California coastlines and can grow to seven inches. Legal sizes are a minimum of 4 1/2 inches for harvesting. First, head to CVS or Gotta Go Fish’n to get a clamming permit, which can be obtained year-round, and grab a fishing license, which is under $15. Then grab a caliper, or clam fork, and head to the ocean just before sunrise or just after sunset and hunt for clams. It will be a truly unforgettable and photo-worthy experience for the family.

Where to Eat Huckleberry’s is a local favorite that offers a wide selection of classic American food. Only open for breakfast and lunch, the restaurant prides itself as having “Southern cooking with a California twist.” Huckleberry’s features delicious plates, like tasty Mardi Gras Beignets and Stuffed French Toast. Huckleberry’s, 300 Five Cities Dr., (805) 773-4117, huckleberrys.org. 

Safety tips in case you head to the beaches If you do find yourself heading out to the beach in the next few weekends, there are a few good safety tips to keep in mind:

Swim, body board and/or surf near an open lifeguard tower If you plan on being down at the beach this weekend make sure you to swim, and surf near and open lifeguard tower. Be sure to check in with the lifeguard on duty, they can help you identify a safe place to swim and surf. If you’re not sure if a tower is open look for one with; open shutters, a flag and the red recuse can hanging from the hook. (just like the picture).

Avoid rip currents, and learn how to escape one before getting in the water. If you get caught in a rip current: Stay calm; don’t fight the current; swim out of the current (parallel to the shoreline), and then in; if you’re too weak to swim, float or tread water until a lifeguard can assist you;

for more information on rip currents, visit www.fire.lacounty.gov/lifeguard/rip-currents; check in with the lifeguard before entering the water and they will direct you to a safe area for swimming.

Know your limits If you are unsure of your abilities in the ocean, both swimming or surfing, check in with the lifeguard before you get in. At most beaches the lifeguard can direct you to a safe area to enjoy the water.

Stay off the rocks There can be significant time (lulls) between wave sets. It’s important to stay off rocks and jetties near the water to avoid being swept off and them into treacherous waters.

Stay away from the sick/injured sea lions We currently have a large influx of sick and injured seals and sealions on beaches. Do not call: this ties up valuable resources that are meant for emergency purposes.

If you see an injured animal do the following: Stay back! Seal lions have very strong bites and sharp teeth; do not feed wildlife; do not drag animals back into the water. They are too weak to swim; contact the nearest lifeguard; don’t call 911; Don’t pour water on seals or sea lions; We appreciate the public’s concern for these animal; county lifeguards and Marine Mammal Rescue are working to ensure the safety and well being of all marine animals.

Boating Safety Always carry enough life vests for every person aboard your vessel. Never boat while under the influence of alcohol. Have a working VHF radio. Monitor VHF 16 to be made aware of weather information from the USCG. More boating safety information is available at USCGboating.org. 

S E P T E M B E R 23, 2018

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 43

PRELEAGUE

Continued from page 15

battle-tested. Despite the loss, the game against St. Francis was a good barometer and should help prepare Saugus for league play. The Centurions have shown they can flourish through the air or on the ground, especially with senior quarterback Cole Gallagher at the helm. Gallagher has thrown for 676 yards and 11 touchdowns while adding 158 rushing yards and seven scores on the ground.

Valencia: Preleague record 2-2

While Canyon faced a tough preleague slate, Valencia undoubtedly had the toughest schedule of any Foothill League team. Valencia opened the season with a 17-14 loss against Arbor View, the fifth-ranked team in Nevada according to MaxPreps.com. After beating Silverado handily, the Vikings lost to Division 3 Sierra Canyon, then defeated Division 2 Loyola. They close out preleague against Cal-

Below: Canyon junior quarterback Aydyn Litz throws a deep ball in a game against San Fernando at Harry Welch Stadium on Friday. PHOTO BY CORY RUBIN

abasas, the No. 121 team in the country according to MaxPreps.com, and the only team to beat Valencia during the season last year. With star running back Jayvaun Wilson sidelined, the Vikings have relied on a committee featuring juniors Nick Pham and Jake Santos and senior Luring Paialii. Santos and Paialii were added to the injury list last week and missed the game against Loyola, leading to more time for junior Aidan Baptiste. Valencia’s depth has been crucial so

far, and will continue to be relied upon if the injury bug decides to stick around for league play.

Above: Saugus Senior quarterback Cole Gallagher completes a pass to senior James Sumpter at College of the Canyons in their season opener against Taft on Friday night. PHOTO BY CORY RUBIN

YOUR BRAIN POWER

West Ranch: mental Preleague recordChallenge 5-0 rushingyour yards and is tied for first in the

muscles and make new For the second consecutive season, state with 16 rushing touchdowns. His West Ranch finished its non-conferfriends. brother Learn game Jovanthe Camacho already has ence schedule undefeated. However, more receiving touchdowns this year this West Ranch team looksof a lotbridge! differ- than he had all of last season. Quarterent than last season. back Weston Eget has looked sensaLast year, the Wildcats finished 1-4 in tional, throwing for 982 yards and 11 Classes Wednesday, Sept 12, league play after rolling through prelea-start touchdowns with only one interception. 2018, gue. This year has a different feel as 2:30pm. the The Wildcats don’t look like they offense, defense and special teams have are slowing down anytime soon, and Cost: 3 attempt lessons all been playing exceptionally well. $30 forwill to begin league play with a (Sept 12, 19, 26) victory against the Grizzlies.  Ryan Camacho set a school record in Location: SCV Senior Center 22900 Market Street, Santa Clarita Classes start

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Rock Guitarists Kotzen, Moore, Gus G Plan Triple-Threat Set for Canyon Santa Clarita Sept. 28 By Stephen K. Peeples Signal Contributor

ock guitar virtuosos Richie Kotzen, Vinnie Moore and Gus G have teamed up for a West Coast mini-tour that wraps with a triple-threat set at the Canyon Santa Clarita on Friday, Sept. 28. Each musician has earned a fiercely loyal international following among rock and metal guitar fans for stints in more famous groups — Poison, UFO and Ozzy Osbourne’s backing band, respectively — as well as extensive solo touring and recording. Kotzen, also ex-Mr. Big and The Winery Dogs, is a singer, writer and multi-instrumentalist with more than 20 solo albums in his catalog since 1989, “Salting Earth” the most recent in 2017. Moore is among the most influential rock guitarists of the last few decades, emerging from the virtuoso boom of

CRAWFORD

Continued from page 37

Actonel, an osteoporosis medication. “It was a gold mine,” she said. “Any drug commercial is very lucrative.”

A love for films Throughout Crawford’s life, movies have been a constant. She has kept a calendar of every movie she has seen since 1997. Crawford said she remembers seeing Bob Hope and Bing Crosby movies while growing up in Fullerton. She said it is hard for her to choose a favorite movie, but when pressed, she names “It’s a Wonderful Life.” Crawford met Julie Witter, of Sand Canyon, when both were substitute teaching during the 1980s at Mitchell Elementary School. “During the recess, she started telling me about a movie class she was taking at UCLA,” she said. The class, called “Sneak Previews” gives attendees a chance to see movies before they are released in theaters.

the mid- to- late 1980s. Gus G, Ozzy’s lead guitarist since 2009, also fronts Firewind, has been a member of Arch Enemy and Dream Evil, and has a dozen-plus solo albums to his credit. The three axe-wielders launched their tour in Scottsdale Sept. 18, and hit Las Vegas, Portland, Seattle, Oakland and Sacramento on the way to final shows at the Canyon Santa Clarita Sept. 28, the Canyon Agoura Hills Sept. 29 and The Rose in Pasadena Sept. 30. “We’re not playing together, we’re doing our own sets,” Kotzen said on the phone en route to the first gig. “But Santa Clarita is near the end of the tour, so by the time we get there, who knows? Hah!” These dates are the first Kotzen, Moore and Gus G have co-headlined. (They also conveniently share a booking agency.) “I used to go see Vinnie’s (guitar)

clinic when I was a teenager,” said Kotzen, now 48. “I was a big fan when I was young. I’m not as familiar with Gus but I know he’s a fantastic musician. So, I’m excited about the whole lineup — it’s going to be a lot of fun.” Kotzen’s hard-rocking bandmates, drummer Mike Bennett and bassist Dylan Wilson, have worked with him for eight and seven years, respectively. “We’re a power trio,” Kotzen said. “We’ve traveled all over the world together and know each other very well.” As to his setlist: “We do stuff from (“Salting Earth”) and go back as far as 1994,” he said. “With so many solo albums out, I have a lot of material to choose from.” Among other career highlights, Kotzen opened for The Rolling Stones on their 2006 “Bigger Bang” tour of Japan — the only time the Stones have had an opening act there. “The agency that used to book me in Japan got The Rolling Stones, and I

said to the (agency), ‘Wow, I’d just love to open for The Rolling Stones.’ And they took me seriously. “The people who worked for the Stones went to my website, watched a couple videos and said, ‘Oh, that’s fine,’” Kotzen said. “And they told me I could go anywhere on the stage except the ramp. That’s Mick’s turf.” Kotzen wound up playing all the Stones’ half-dozen Japanese dates that tour. “I didn’t tell anyone I was doing it until after I’d performed the first show,” he said. “I was afraid I’d get there and they’d change their minds.” ***** 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. 

“We are still attending the class,” she said. “When you hear the producers, directors, writers talk about a movie and see their passion, even if you don’t like the movie, you love the passion. I learned to understand that every movie that is made is a love affair with the people who make these movies.” One of Crawford’s favorite memories is when she met Clint Eastwood as a high school senior. “I was dating a stunt double for Clint Eastwood in the TV series ‘Rawhide.’ He took me to the set and introduced me. I was just speechless,” she said. Fast forward to life in the SCV. Crawford met Judy Cox of the Betty Ferguson Foundation and became one of the organization’s “Women of Honor.” Cox is married to Joel Cox, the longtime film editor for Clint Eastwood. When Cox was honored in 2008 with the Lifetime Achievement Award by the American Society of Film Editors, Crawford attended the event and was re-introduced to Eastwood. “Clint took ahold of my hand and I told him I had met him years before on the set of ‘Rawhide.’ I told him about

being introduced by his stunt double. Clint said, ‘Oh, I remember him. And you haven’t changed at all.’ I floated away. I don’t even know what happened the rest of the evening.”

“Wayne believes if much is given to you, you must give back. He’s always set that example,” she said. In addition to the profits from Pink Ribbon Gifts, Crawford also donated 50 percent of her earnings from her commercials and entertainment work. The hospital was one first nonprofits the Crawfords supported in the SCV. In addition to Henry Mayo, the Crawfords have been generous benefactors to Carousel Ranch and the Boys & Girls Club of SCV. Crawford closed Pink Ribbon Gifts after the pink ribbon movement went “mainstream.” “When everyone started carrying pink ribbon merchandise, I knew it was over,” she said. For Crawford, the end of Pink ribbon Gifts was not necessarily a bad thing, as she had moved on to other interests. “I started writing movie reviews, just for three or four friends,” she said. “I did it just during award season, the end of September until the Academy Awards. It just mushroomed. Last year, I think I had 210 people on my email list.” 

Giving back In 1997, Crawford developed breast cancer. She left American Airlines and started Pink Ribbon Gifts. “I was in at the beginning of the breast cancer pink ribbon-merchandizing movement,” she said. “When I started Pink Ribbon Gifts, I knew I would donate all the profits.” Her nonprofit of choice was the Sheila Veloz Breast Center at Henry Mayo in Valencia. “Sheila Veloz is extremely important to me because my breast cancer was missed on a mammogram. I am so happy that we now have a wonderful breast cancer center in the Santa Clarita Valley,” she said. On Oct. 8, Crawford will celebrate 21 years cancer-free. The Crawfords have always been at the forefront of philanthropy in the SCV.

S E P T E M B E R 23, 2018

Give your mind a workout with these brainy exercises!

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S E P T E M B E R 23, 2018

CROSSWORD TIME Answer to Sunday 9/16 Crossword

The scariest Halloween ever By Jim Mullen The Village Idiot

alloween is six weeks away, and I am very scared. Not of trick-or-treaters coming to my door, or of my car being soaped (even though it needs it). No, I'm scared that I'll have to go shopping for something between now and Oct. 31. Because I know that there is no way I can go to any store between now and then without passing pyramids of gaudy "holiday-sized" packs of Halloween candy, costumes, napkins, tablecloths and giant outdoor decorations. What happened to all the costumes and decorations people bought last year? Where did they go? Yes, it's convenient to be able to load up my cart with a couple of 3-pound bags of orange-colored candy and pick up a blood-sugar monitor from the same aisle, but is it really good for us? Maybe that explains why so many grocery stores have pharmacies in them now. What if it's in the store's best interest to make you sick? It'll sell you the disease and the cure on the same trip. Oh, what am I thinking? That's just crazy talk. No business would give you diabetes on purpose. Would it? Can all that candy be going to goblins and vampires on Halloween? Not unless people are giving it away by the bagful at every knock of the door. I think much of it is being eaten long before, and after, the holiday. Either way, it had better be gone by the time the Thanksgiving-themed candy and pies start filling up the stores. And all THAT has to be gone before the Christmas cookies arrive, and then THOSE have to be eaten before the Super Bowl snacks show up, and -- well, you get the picture. Most of us don't have a problem overeating during the holidays. The problem is that EVERY day has become a holiday. Almost every weekend is an excuse to have a little extra -- a tailgate party, a birthday, a wedding, a graduation, a new job, a vacation -- have another drink, have a piece of cake, a little chocolate chip cookie

won't kill you. Until it does. To get away from all the holiday sweets, I gave children hard-boiled eggs last year at Halloween. It was a big success! First, the kids got a little accidental protein, and second, I will never, ever have to worry about them coming back to my house again. There is nothing scarier to children than real food. This year, I'll be turning out the lights and pretending no one's home, which should also keep them away. Not that I have anything against kids, but instead of canvassing the neighborhood for sugary snacks, shouldn't they be out getting some exercise by TP-ing houses? Houses other than mine, of course. Sometimes, I go to my grocery store to buy food, not candy, but it's getting harder and harder. All I needed last week was olive oil and bread, but the olive oil was next to the seasonal M&Ms and the XXXL children's clothes, and the bread was next to the fruit-free "froot" roll-ups and cellphone chargers. (Good thing, too. I had to buy a third cellphone charger last week. I left the first one plugged into the wall at a hotel, and the second at a charger station in an airport. Both times, I kept telling myself "Don't forget the charger!" And I didn't. I remembered them as soon as it was too late to go back for them.) They say not to go grocery shopping when you're hungry. So I ate the last of the Easter candy before I went this time. Besides, I wanted to get rid of it before it went stale. But not being hungry doesn't stop me from buying kitchen utensils, flowers, Halloween cards, that new vodka that tastes like bubble gum, car wax, hair gel, one of those new razors that make it look as if you haven't shaved at all, scented candles, a bottle of pills that will help my memory (which, it turns out, I already had a full bottle at home), a DVD of the last Bond movie and some sports socks. I had to go back an hour later because I forgot to get the chicken I had gone in for. Contact Jim Mullen at mullen.jim@ gmail.com. ď&#x201A;&#x203A;

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