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MAY 17, 2020

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HITTING THE TRAILS IN THE SCV

KEEPING AN EYE ON THEIR APPS

A MENTAL HEALTH CHECK FOR PETS

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M AY 17, 2020

NEWS FEATURES 4 New summer plans in a pandemic 5 Time to take to the great outdoors, Santa Clarita 6 Ribs, slaw, grilled corn — that perfect Memorial Day BBQ 7 The value of greener, more sustainable landscapes FROM THE CITY MANAGER 8 Santa Clarita responds to safer-at-home orders KIDS & FAMILY 10 Exercise caution with youth-based social apps Junior Whirl 11 Donna’s Day: Bake crunchy treats for yours and your friend’s dog Ways to prevent drowning all year long TECHNOLOGY 12 A few cool tips to make life easier HOME AND GARDEN GUIDE 13 Allbright Painting 14 Dunn-Edwards Painting 15 SCV Water’s WaterSMART workshop Benefits of a veggie garden 18 Window Genie 20 Tips for better home safety FOOD 21 Comfort foods: Strawberry Lovers’ Pie BEAUTY 22 Bad habits that may be affecting your appearance Hair color tips and tricks for the best color results HEALTH 23 Tips to help fight sleep deprivation PETS 24 Canine separation anxiety post stay-at-home SENIOR LIVING 25 A Second Wind: What’s next OPINION PUZZLES SPORTS

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4 · S U N D AYS I G N A L

M AY 17, 2020

N E W S F E AT U R E S

Making new summer plans in a pandemic By Tammy Murga Signal Staff Writer

ummer vacations and tourism will look a little different this year as quarantine orders and safety measures continue due to the coronavirus crisis. With summer around the corner, many are either already thinking of ways to replace their travel plans or are struggling to find creative and safe ways to spend the hot summer days ahead. “We know the desire to get out of the house and explore is certainly there,” said Evan Thomason, economic development associate with the city of Santa Clarita. But the Center for Disease Control and Prevention and other health experts have advised avoiding traveling outside of one’s local area as much as possible to help prevent the spread of COVID-19. “CDC recommends you stay home as much as possible, especially if your trip is not essential, and practice social distancing especially if you are at higher risk of severe illness,” according to an online statement. “Don’t travel if you are sick or travel with someone who is sick.” With directives to stay at home and temporarily shut down several businesses, the hotel, airline and tourism industries have seen sharp declines in activity and revenue.

Crisis has been ‘devastating’ for hotels

Among the many sectors hard-hit by the pandemic is the hospitality and leisure industry, particularly hotels due to a historic drop in travel demand. In April, more than 7.6 million jobs were lost, something Chip Rogers, president and CEO of the industry trade group American Hotel and Lodging Association, said last month was worse than Sept. 11. “With the impact to the travel industry nine times worse than 9/11, the human toll of this public health crisis has been absolutely devastating for the hotel industry. For the hotel industry, our priority is rehiring and retaining our hardworking employees who power our vibrant industry,” he said in a statement. “Hotels were one of the first industries affected by the pandemic, and will be one of the last to recover. Furloughs and layoffs have affected multiple companies, including Hyatt, which has a location in Valencia. The company said Monday it would lay off 1,300 employees worldwide. There was no immediate information available whether that would include the SCV location. “While parting ways with our colleagues is excruciating, we must be sensitive to commercial realities so we can continue to fulfill our purpose of care over the long term — through this pandemic and for what lies beyond,” read a statement from Mark Hoplamazian, president and CEO of Hyatt, who added that those laid off would be eligible for

Belen Delgado checks guests in to the Hyatt Regency hotel in Valencia. Vacation will most like look very different for a lot of people this summer. PHOTO BY BOBBY BLOCK / THE SIGNAL

severance pay, outplacement services and other benefits. The Valencia location has seen a decline in visitors due to closures of the SCV’s main tourism attractions, such as Six Flags Magic Mountain, but officials said they are remaining optimistic as stayat-home orders slowly ease countywide. “Our outlook isn’t terrible. We’ve been picking up a lot of short-term individual travel, with some business travel but we are optimistic about an increase in demand,” said Timothy Lusher, corporate general manager at the Hyatt Valencia. “I expect, as we get more into the summertime and when Magic Mountain reopens, we will pick up at a steady pace.” The hotel, which has increased its safety measures, is currently operating at 20% occupancy and is expecting a moderate increase as more local residents have been booking as a small getaway from home. And Lusher said that’s a safe alternative to traveling outside of one’s local area.

How about a staycation?

SCV residents are looking into booking a night or two at local hotels to change up the scene, said Lusher. “We are showing that people need some relief from home. They aren’t looking for extended trips or long ventures, rather, people want to get out of their homes and go and stay in a hotel for a couple of nights and relief themselves from any anxiety and get out just a little bit,” he said. “(The Hyatt) is a lovely environment, in a great location. We are clean and sanitary and (are) masked and we want people to be comfortable and have a different environment.”

Local tourism industry hopeful for sense of normalcy

With restrictions incrementally easing across the

county, which the city of Santa Clarita has been following throughout the pandemic, Thomason said local tourism activity is expected to increase. “When we get to a place of confidence, with personal protection measures combined with social distancing and sanitation guidelines, it’s conceivable that we could get a positive spike in tourism activity,” he said, adding that a rise in activity was also the case after the 2003 SARS outbreak and the 2008 financial crisis. “Experts predict short-haul travel (drive markets) to pick up the quickest, which is historically what Santa Clarita is — a popular drive market. We’re uniquely situated as a perfect jumping-off point to explore all that Los Angeles has to offer,” said Thomason. Among the main tourist attractions in the SCV is Six Flags Magic Mountain. The location has remained closed since March 13 and, as of Wednesday, the company did not have an opening date to share, according to spokeswoman Sandra Daniels. For now, every guest will be required to make a reservation for a specific date at sixflags.com/reserve, according to a news release issued this week.

Explore what your local area already has to offer

Thomason recommends looking into the many amenities the SCV offers for a safe and entertaining summer vacation. From a refreshing afternoon at Castaic Lake to hiking a new trail or ordering takeout from a new restaurant you haven’t tried before, residents can browse through visitsantaclarita.com, which has activities, itineraries and other listings available.

M AY 17, 2020

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 5

N E W S F E AT U R E S

Time to take to the great outdoors, Santa Clarita By Emily Alvarenga Signal Staff Writer

s Los Angeles County begins to ease the stay-at-home restrictions, the county’s trails and parks are among the first to reopen. With hundreds of trails that traverse the Santa Clarita Valley’s hillsides, it’s not a bad idea to get outside and adventure through one, at a safe distance of course. “Santa Clarita has a lot of great trails, and I’d like to commend the city and the city council for making sure that we have a lot of open space and great trails — that’s what sets Santa Clarita apart from most other cities,” said Dianne Erskine-Hellrigel, president of the Santa Clarita Community Hiking Club. SCV Trail Users chairman Ken Raleigh agreed, adding, “Fortunately, there’s a lot of trails in Santa Clarita. There are also some really popular trails, but I usually avoid them. I prefer the trails less traveled, so to speak.” If you do decide to get out and explore, be sure to remember the public health guidelines, which include no group gatherings, maintaining at least 6 feet of physical distance, and be sure to bring a face covering, as they are mandatory if you are closer than that. While Erskine-Hellrigel and Raleigh both say it’s hard to choose a favorite, with more than 12,000 acres of open space and 100 miles of trails and paseos, the SCV has a trail for everyone. Here’s a list of some of her favorites:

Kimberly Facko, right, points out river rocks to her son Fernando Magana as the pair explore a creek near the Placerita Nature Center following an easing of COVID-19-related restrictions. PHOTO BY BOBBY BLOCK / THE SIGNAL

Weldon Canyon

22925 Coltrane Ave., Newhall This steep climb is actually a service road, but it’s rare to see any other traffic on the way. The trail leads you to the top in 3.5 miles from the trailhead, where you can either turn back or

Hiking tips

hough it may seem pretty straightforward, hiking can become dangerous if done incorrectly, so here are some tips from Erskine-Hellrigel, Raleigh and Ranger Frank Hoffman, head ranger and recreation services supervisor at Placerita Canyon Nature Center.

• Never hike alone; always bring a friend. • Hike only in the daylight. • Tell someone where you’re going and when you’ll be back. • Always bring more supplies than you need. That includes water, electrolytes and food. • Also, bring a fully-charged phone, compass, basic first aid materials and a whistle. • Don’t take a hike that’s too difficult. Instead, start slow and try to work your way up to longer hikes. • Don’t hike in unfamiliar territory; make a plan and stick to it. • Be aware of your surroundings, watch for trail markers and stay on designated trails. • Plan for weather conditions by wearing proper attire, including hiking boots if needed. • Be aware of wildlife, and know what to do if you see a rattlesnake or mountain lion. • Know what poison oak looks like, and stay away from it.

traverse the ridge to East Canyon, then on to Mission Peak for some great views of the city. “It’s a great workout and one of my favorites,” Erskine-Hellrigel said.

Towsley Canyon

24335 The Old Road, Newhall For those who want a slightly easier hike, but still have a chance to be one with nature, this is a favorite for lots of local hikers and mountain bikers because of its natural beauty, wildlife and intermittent hills and downhills, according to Erskine-Hellrigel. This is one of the SCV’s most popular hikes though, so be prepared for some crowds on optimal days, Raleigh added.

Pico Canyon

27201 Pico Canyon Road, Stevenson Ranch Those who want to learn a little bit about the SCV’s history should certainly give this trail a try, as it’s the site of California’s first oil well, as well as old town Mentryville. About a mile into the hike, you’ll encounter Johnson Park, an olden-days park that was used by the oil workers living in the canyon for recreation and picnics. Another mile will take you to the plaque commemorating the oil wells.

Whitney Canyon

20303 Newhall Ave., Newhall If you’re looking for some water, this is the trail for you. This trail is good for all skill levels with a waterfall waiting for you at the 2.5-mile turnaround.

See TRAILS, page 21

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M AY 17, 2020

N E W S F E AT U R E S

Ribs, slaw, grilled corn — that perfect Memorial Day BBQ By Michele E. Buttelman Signal Staff Writer

emorial Day weekend is the official start of the summer grilling season. Time to fill up those propane tanks for your gas barbecue and gather your ingredients for your signature barbecue “rub.” Invite friends and family for a fun outdoor get together this Memorial Day weekend and enjoy some ‘cue! cooked corn Wrap the ribs in foil and place in refrigerator until ready to BBQ. The next day Heat grill to 225F. If you have a two-burner grill, light only one side and leave the other off. If you have a three- or four-burner grill, light the outside burners but leave the middle off. PHOTOS COURTESY MICHELE E. BUTTELMAN

Mr. Buttelman’s Signature Baby Back Pork Ribs My husband makes the best ribs I’ve ever eaten. He’s taken a few years to perfect his “rub” and his grilling technique. All great BBQ starts with a fantastic rub. We use this on everything, ribs, steaks, chicken, even corn! Experiment with flavors you like and create your own signature dry rubs for meat, chicken and seafood. The day before 1 rack of pork baby back ribs (remove the tough membrane from the back of the ribs by using a knife to pry up a corner of the membrane, then pull it down the entire length of the ribs. This is a must). Dry Rub 6 tbsp brown sugar 1 tbsp salt 1 tbsp dry mustard 1 tsp black pepper 1 tbsp garlic powder 1 tbsp onion powder 1 tsp cayenne pepper (if you like it really spicy you can use up to 1 tbsp) 1 tbsp chili powder Mix all the ingredients together and slather generously over front and back of ribs. Work the dry rub into the meat.

put it in a bowl. Add small bag of shredded carrots and mix. You can also add finely chopped celery, grated onion (only a teaspoon or two), green onion, chopped broccoli or cauliflower, really any vegetable that does not contain excess water.

I don’t make this as much as I once did. It’s a lot of chopping and I find that after I’ve slaved away on this potato salad it disappears so fast there are rarely any leftovers.

Lift the grate and place the foil packet of hickory chips near the flame. Replace the grate and lay the rack of ribs over the burner or burners that aren’t lit. Close lid. For one cup of dressing use 3/4 cup of mayonnaise 1/4 cup of sour cream 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar 1 tbsp lemon juice 2 tbsp sugar

Brush the ribs with your favorite barbecue sauce, and crank up the heat on your grill to 450F. Cook the ribs for a few minutes to caramelize the sauce and make it stick to the ribs. Serve.

Celery seed, salt and pepper to taste

Note Ribs can cook faster or slower so keep an eye on them and check the internal temp often.

Add more vinegar or sugar to adjust to your taste preference.

My favorite Coleslaw

This is my favorite homemade coleslaw recipe, courtesy of my dear, departed friend Chris Dougherty. Exact ratio of cabbage to carrots and other veggies is up to the individual. Shred a small head of cabbage and

Remove husks of the corn and grill the corn until slightly charred on all sides. Mix mayonnaise, sour cream and cilantro together. Remove corn from grill and slather with the mayonnaise mix. Squeeze lime juice over the corn and shower with Parmesan. Season with chili powder.

Michele’s Homemade Potato Salad

Fold a double layer of heavy-duty aluminum foil and place a handful of hickory chips in the middle. Wrap the wood in the foil, making a compact package, then pierce it in several places with a bamboo skewer.

Cook baby back ribs for 3 to 4 hours. Low and slow, as the pit masters’ say. The ribs are done when a rib bone rotates easily if you grasp the end and wiggle it back and forth. Cook until internal temperature reads 185F on an instant read meat thermometer.

Red chili powder, to taste

Stir together until the sugar dissolves. Thin with milk or cream to desired thickness, season to taste with celery seed, salt and pepper.

Grilled Mexican Street Corn 4 1/2 1 1/2 1/4 1

ears corn cup mayonnaise cups sour cream cup chopped cilantro cup grated Parmesan

One lime, cut in half, to squeeze over

5 2 1/2 4 1 1

large potatoes (Yukons or Russets) hard-boiled eggs, chopped cup chopped celery green onions, chopped can whole, large olives, sliced 8 oz. jar whole green olives with pimento, sliced 6 large radishes, sliced

Dressing 3/4 cup mayonnaise 1 tbsp prepared mustard 1 tbsp lemon juice 2 tbsp dill weed 1 tsp celery salt 1 tsp salt Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add potatoes and cook until tender but still firm, about 15 minutes. Drain, cool, peel and chop. In a large bowl, combine potatoes, eggs, celery, onion, olives and radishes. In small bowl mix together mayo, mustard, lemon juice, dill weed, celery salt and salt. Add to potato mixture. Mix well. Chill 1 hour before serving.

M AY 17, 2020

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 7

N E W S F E AT U R E S

The value of greener, more sustainable landscapes By Perry Smith Sunday Signal Editor

iving in Santa Clarita makes it pretty easy to appreciate the calming effects and beauty of nature. There are literally miles and miles of open space that surround the SCV, more than three dozen parks throughout and well-manicured is the expectation for everything from lawns governed by homeowners associations to medians with standards that residents have come to expect. So it’s no surprise in this environment one of the nation’s fastest-growing landscape-design, -development and -maintenance firms — Enhanced Landscape Management — has emerged as an industry leader in one of the most competitive fields out there. Locally owned and operated, Landscape Development Inc., a Fortune 5000 honoree for its growth, and its maintenance division, Enhanced Landscape Management, have planted deep roots in the community, with work that demonstrates their commitment to professional work, community development and growth that’s allowed the business to grow a tremendous amount over the last few years, according to company officials.

Acquisitions, growth, new service

Like most businesses across the country, the Great Recession was one of Landscape Development Inc.’s most challenging times as a company, said Landscape Development CEO Gary Horton. However, Horton used the business acumen and industry experience that guides his company today to turn these challenges into opportunities. (Horton studied finance at the California State University, Northridge, earned an MBA from Loyola Marymount University and then completed advanced management training at University of Pennsylvania’s renowned Wharton School.) Continuing his education and lessons from the recession taught Horton he needed to diversify so he wouldn’t be tied to construction alone during the next inevitable economic downturn. So after surviving in some of the toughest economic conditions in recent times, LDI began to quickly thrive and expand as the marketplace recovered, expanding the footprint of the company with offices in Sacramento, San Luis Obispo, Ventura, Santa Barbara, Inland Empire, Bakersfield and Clovis, in addition to the company’s corporate headquarters in Valencia. One of the addition’s Horton is most proud of is Enhanced Landscape Management, which he referred to as the “gold standard,” for landscape design and maintenance. “We sort of stormed the scene quickly,” Horton said of Enhanced Landscape. “It’s now the area’s largest maintenance-service provider.”

The relaxing benefits of a well-manicured landscape can range from the tranquility a peaceful setting can provide to the peace of mind in knowing one of your most important investments is being well taken care of, according to the experts at Landscape Development Inc., a local company that designs, creates and maintains everything from multi-million-dollar projects to neighborhood baseball fields. PHOTO COURTESY LDI

Enhanced Landscape Management

Started in Thousand Oaks, another area known for lush lawns and manicured landscapes, almost 20 years ago, Enhanced Landscape Management had a well-developed reputation for high-quality design when LDI acquired the company in 2016, and brought on Epstein, as the company’s executive director. “(Enhanced Landscape) really hit the premier-level market,” Horton said, explaining why he wanted to add the company to LDI’s expanding portfolio. “If you wanted something beautiful, that was who you get.” In addition to business with cities like Malibu and Camarillo, Enhanced Landscape quickly has become an indispensable partner to homeowners associations and business parks for their work within a project’s budget and with an eye for things like maintaining beauty, Epstein said. “The thing about landscape maintenance is you need to maintain that asset or it will depreciate,” Horton said, which is why customers, ranging from picturesque oceanside cities to the neighborhood baseball fields at William S. Hart Park and countless HOA-run communities, entrust Enhanced Landscape Management for their care, Horton said.

Growth and diversity

Whether it was stepping up when Canyon Country residents were faced with a soil-erosion crisis in their backyards, or helping Los Angeles County bring medians “back to life” in Castaic, Enhanced

Landscape Management has garnered a reputation the company takes pride in as a sort of “one-stop shop” for landscape projects, as it can takes the idea from the design phase all the way through to maintenance, due to a number of strategic acquisitions of the years, according to Greg Epstein, executive director for Enhanced Landscape. “Image is everything,” Epstein said, referring to the bottom line for ELM’s customers, after listing a few of the company’s important commitments, like customer communication, employee retention and making sure the team has everything needed. “We pride ourselves on delivering high quality maintenance and products, and really trying to separate ourselves from our competitors,” Epstein said. Horton, who also lives in Valencia not far from his company’s headquarters, first started his company as a landscaping installation firm, according to Anne Cleveland, director of business development for LDI. “(LDI) wasn’t known for his maintenance per se, because the focus was construction,” Cleveland said. Enhanced Landscape Management added a great team to what LDI was able to offer its customers, as well as a number of services that SCV residents have come to appreciate.

Expansion and value

While the untamed beauty of nature surrounds the Santa Clarita Valley, throughout most of the See LDI, page 19

8 · S U N D AYS I G N A L

M AY 17, 2020

FROM THE CITY MANAGER

Santa Clarita responds to safer-at-home orders By City Manager Ken Striplin

here has been nothing in our lifetime as disruptive to daily life as the current coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. There is not a single person in the Santa Clarita Valley who has not been affected, either by having a loved one fall ill, owning a business that was forced to close or changing daily routines to work from home or support their child’s education through distance learning. As we hear news from Los Angeles County in regard to extending restrictions, we know our community (and our City Council) is anxious to reopen businesses and get back to work. Following last week’s announcement from the county that orders could extend through the end of July, there was a loud and strong outcry from our residents for the City to take action. On the day of last week’s coun-

cil meeting, City Hall phones were ringing off the hook, urging a quicker path to reopen than what the county had laid out. In addition, the flood of emails we received was at a level I have never seen during my 25 years in local government. During a span of just a few hours, we received more than 800 emails, the vast majority of which, asking for the restrictions to be lifted. The City Council is with you! At the council meeting on May 12, the council voted to send a letter to Los Angeles County expressing opposition to any additional extensions to the safer-at-home orders. In addition, we are setting up a meeting with County Supervisor Kathryn Barger to voice our City’s concerns. There has been so much confusion during this time in regard to who has the authority to reopen and where the direction comes from for Santa Clarita. On May 6, Los Angeles County released its “Roadmap to Recovery,” which lays out a cautious reopening of different sectors of the economy

across various stages. It is important to note that the roadmap applies to all cities in Los Angeles County that do not have their own public health department. In fact, of the 88 cities within the county, only Long Beach and Pasadena have their own health departments. The City of Santa Clarita falls under the jurisdiction of the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health and orders from the State of California. However, state and county orders at times differ, with restrictions set by the state being more lenient than those put in place by the county. However, there is no one-size-fitsall approach that will work for every community in California or even Los Angeles County. The City Council has heard the response to these orders from our residents, including business owners, employees, landlords, tenants and more. The City is committed to engaging the county in discussions to immediately ease restrictions on cities like Santa Clarita that meet certain

criteria, such as testing availability, hospital capacity and coronavirus case reduction while implementing appropriate health and safety protocols. As we push for restrictions to relax, I encourage all of you to support Santa Clarita businesses that are open. Even with restrictions in place for delivery or curbside pickup only, spending your hard-earned dollars locally will help stimulate our economy. The phrase “business as usual” may not mean the same thing for some time, but together we can support our local organizations to ensure we have a diverse business community offering a variety of options to our residents, now and into the future. To learn more about the City of Santa Clarita’s response to the coronavirus pandemic, please visit SantaClaritaEmergency.com.

Ken Striplin can be reached at kstriplin@santa-clarita.com. The views expressed in his column are those of the City and do not necessarily reflect those of The Signal.

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S U N D AYS I G N A L Î‡ 9

10 · S U N D AYS I G N A L

M AY 17, 2020

K I D S & FA M I LY

Exercise caution with youth-based social apps

nternet access is no longer limited to desktop or laptop computers. World Advertising Research Center, using data from mobile trade body GSMA, says almost three-quarters of internet users, or roughly 3.7 billion people, will access the internet exclusively via smartphones by 2025. Young people are one of the largest demographics using smartphones today. A Common Sense Media survey says just more than half of the children in the United States will own a smartphone by the age of 11. In addition, 84% of teenagers have their own phones. Most youth grew up with the internet, and they have embraced a variety of apps, particularly social media apps, that connect them to the world. Social media certainly can be an asset, but it has inherent risks, such as making kids easy targets for identity theft or sexual predators. Other apps expose users to explicit, unfiltered content. Parents must educate themselves about the popular apps their tweens and teens may be using and weigh their pros and cons. Here’s a list of apps every parent should become familiar with in order

anonymously without the need for phone service. Users also can share most digital media and video chat with one another. Forbes reports that Kik has had issues with child exploitation and sexual harassment. • Tellonym: The web resource FamilyEducation says this messenger app allows kids to ask and answer questions anonymously, purporting to be the “most honest place on the internet.” Cyber bullying and violent threats are common, according to watchdog groups.

Parents should educate themselves about the popular apps their tweens and teens may be using and weigh their pros and cons.

to make wise choices for their children. • TikTok: This app — formerly Musical.ly — is designed for creating and sharing short videos, notably music videos. Users are urged to express their creativity, and special effects can be added. While the minimum age for use is 13, there is no real way to validate users’ ages so anyone can

download the app. Some parents say the videos are plagued with inappropriate language and content, including pornographic material. In addition, others have warned that when sexual predators are identified, the app is slow to flag and remove these users. • Kik: This is a cross-platform messaging app that enables users to chat

• MeetMe: This social app advertises its ability to have users meet new people through messages, video calls and live streams. With no option to set privacy limitations, users can freely view other profiles within the vicinity. Also, reaching out to others and viewing profiles generates in-app reward incentives. • Bigo Live: Common Sense Media says this app is like YouTube and Twitch in that Bigo Live lets users stream live video of themselves that others can see and comment on in real time. People also can send and receive “beans,” which are virtual gifts that cost real money. The warning is that Bigo has a lot of mature content and predatory commentary. • Yolo: Yolo is an easy add-on for Snapchat, which also is a popular app among children. Yolo lets users ask anonymous questions and receive feedback. The anonymity of commentary can be a recipe for bullying, trolling and hurt feelings. Parents can safeguard their children by monitoring internet access and understanding popular apps used by today’s youth. (MC)

M AY 17, 2020

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 1 1

K I D S & FA M I LY

Donna’s Day: Creative Family Fun

Bake crunchy treats for yours or your friend’s dog By Donna Erickson Signal Contributing Editor

uch to the disappointment of my snackstarved son, who had just bounded into the house, the note on the kitchen counter by the metal cooling rack read: “Dog Biscuits! Sorry, not for you. — Mom.” The tempting treats may have looked and smelled like peanut-butter cookies, but they were hard as a rock, ready for our canine friends to enjoy. Bake a batch of these crunchy dog biscuits with your kids for doggie gifts. This simple recipe goes together in minutes, and young kids will have an easy and satisfying time rolling out or patting down the pliable dough to create shapes with cute cookie cutters.

Crunchy Dog Biscuits

2 cups whole-wheat flour 1 tablespoon baking powder 1/2 teaspoon salt

1 cup peanut butter at room temperature 1 cup whole milk All-purpose flour for rolling the dough 1. Set the oven temperature to 375 F 2. Let one child measure and combine the flour, baking powder and salt in a large mixing bowl. 3. Another child may measure and stir the peanut butter and milk together in a smaller mixing bowl. It will take a minute or two until the mixture is smooth. Slowly pour it into the dry ingredients and stir until well-combined. 4. Sprinkle flour on the counter. Knead the dough a few times until it is easy to roll out into a 1/4-inch rectangle with a lightly floured rolling pin. Cut with cookie cutters in fun shapes such as a fire hydrant, bone, kitty, heart or Xs and Os, and transfer to greased (or parchment-paper-covered) cookie sheets.

These dog biscuit are easy to make and a great cooking experience for children.

5. Bake 20 minutes, or until edges are lightly browned. Let cool. Tip Divide into gift bags, tie with ribbon and a tag, and deliver to neighborhood dog friends. 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.” © 2020 Donna Erickson Distributed by King Features Synd.

Nine ways to prevent drowning all year long

pending time in and around water is a favorite pastime for adults and children. Swimming, boating, running through sprinklers and soaking in a nice warm tub can be great ways to relax and have fun. Even though water play can be exciting, it also can be dangerous. Drowning is the leading cause of death for children between the ages of one and four and the fifth leading cause of accidental death overall in the United States, according to UCI Health. Calm rivers can hide swift currents, rocks and tree branches. Ocean rip tides and rough waves can confound even excellent swimmers. Lake waters can be extremely cold, even in summer, making it challenging for a person to stay afloat and avoid hypothermia. It is essential for everyone to play it safe when in and around water. Here are nine ways to do just that. 1. Avoid swimming or boating in high running water, making sure

Enroll in a family swim class to brush up on skills. 6. Have eyes on children at all times when they are in or around the water — both inside the home and outdoors. Employ “touch supervision,” which means always remaining in arm’s reach of the child. 7. Swim only in public swimming areas that are protected by lifeguards. 8. Do not mix alcohol and water recreation. Remain sober when boating, swimming or supervising children who are swimming. to always check conditions before starting. 2. Never dive or jump into unfamiliar or shallow water, advises Seattle Children’s Hospital. 3. Obey barriers, such as markings for deeper ends in pools, fencing around pools and ropes in open waters. Barriers help reduce the risk of drowning considerably.

4. Life jackets should be worn by swimmers of all ages, especially during water sports like boating and jet skiing. 5. The Red Cross says strong swimming skills can significantly reduce the risk of drowning. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, most children age four and older can learn to swim.

9. Drains in pools and spas can be deadly. The Mayo Clinic says to keep children away from drains, as body parts and hair can become trapped by the strong suction. Water safety is a priority all year long, but gets even more attention every summer. A few simple safety measures can prevent many drownings.

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TECHNOLOGY

A few cool tech tips that will make your life easier verybody loves a cool trick. No matter how well we know an app or program, there’s almost always some shortcut we never learned. The same goes for hardware: We may use gadgets every day without knowing their helpful quirks.

2. Reopen a closed browser tab It happens all the time. You have a dozen tabs open in your browser and accidentally close the wrong one. You could open up your browser’s history and reopen the tab from there, or you can do it with a couple of keystrokes. Hit Ctrl+Shift+T on your PC or Command+Shift+T on your Mac to automatically reopen the tab you just closed.

1. Put your USB drive in the right way the first time Plugging in a USB cable the right way feels like a no-brainer. Then why do we get it wrong on the first try so often? Here’s the secret: Grab any USB cable sitting around your house. See that symbol on one side? It’s not just branding or decoration. That symbol will point up if you’re plugging in horizontally and if you’re plugging a cable vertically, the USB symbol will face you. Now you know.

3. Share a YouTube video at a precise point If you see something in a YouTube video that you want to share at a particular point, you can get a link that takes people directly to that moment. Click the Share button below the video. Look for a checkbox below the link. It will automatically display the time at which you currently have the video stopped. You can stick with this time or choose a different time. Copy the link and share it on your preferred social media or email it to a friend. When

By Kim Komando Signal Contributing Writer

5. Report junk texts and stick it to the scammers Junk texts are downright annoying. You can block them, but it feels good to take action, too. Report texts to the GSMA’s Reporting Service with just a few clicks. Forward the message to 7726 (guess what that spells?) or just hit “Report junk” in your messaging app.

someone views the link, the YouTube video will automatically skip right to the point you chose. 4. Search using “Site:” to find content like a ninja A Google search can return millions of results. Cut that down significantly by searching just a single site with Google’s Site: feature. Open Google in your browser and type “site:” and then the website you wish to search. Like this: “site:komando.com” but leave off the quotation marks.

6. Use your voice in Google Docs I bet you already use your phone’s speech-to-text to dictate text messages or even emails, but did you know you can do the same in Google Docs? It’s free and it works surprisingly well. Open a new document in Google Docs, then enable Voice Typing from the Tools menu. Then start dictating. Voice Typing recognizes commands like “comma,” “period,” and “new paragraph,” as well. For information on Kim Komando on today’s digital lifestyle, from smartphones and tablets to online privacy and data hacks, visit her at Komando.com.

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 13

HOME GARDEN Allbright Painting

e are a local 30-year-old business here in the SCV and it has always been about investing in our community and the lives of others. As an employer, we feel we

have an obligation to care for the overall well-being of our employees that have supported us. This is why we’ve never sub-contracted any of our employees. We are committed to providing a wellpaid job, to offer skills & leadership training. In light of the COVID-19 pandemic, we all expect to be fully back at work this month, once the “Safer At Home” ordinance is lifted, and ALLBRiGHT Painting will continue to operate our business in a safe, and informed manner. We have been adjusting as needed. Such as, we have set up easy and efficient ways to give you virtual and online estimates through video chats and tools we have created. We can save the handshakes for later if you want to meet in person. We are also

offering disinfecting services to our local businesses, schools, gyms, restaurants, and other establishments so that their employees can come back to a safer work environment. Our lifeline right now is you, our valued customers. When this is over, ALLBRiGHT Painting will still be here painting happiness. With your help, we can do this! Please consider scheduling a FREE estimate for any work including our 1-Day concrete floor coatings. You can call our office to schedule an estimate or request an estimate online. Call us at (661) 294-1159 or go online to www.ALLBRiGHT painting.com Thank you in advance for your support during this time!

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S U N D AYS I G N A L · 1 5

HOMEANDGARDEN

Dunn-Edwards Paints

nyone who thinks one paint manufacturer is just the same as the next hasn’t spoken to the professionals who use Dunn-Edwards®. Firmly rooted in the United States since 1925, Dunn-Edwards Paints® began as a small, family-owned business that — through hard work and commitment to quality — has grown to become one of the country’s leading manufacturers and distributors of paints and painting supplies. They dedicate themselves to providing professionals and consumers throughout the Southwest with a complete line of the highest-quality and best-value paints, painting supplies and equipment — as well as superior service. Dunn-Edwards has 2,006 designer-preferred colors in their Perfect Palette® color sys-

tem. With so many beautiful colors to choose from, the challenge is in finding just the right one for the project. Their knowledgeable employees will walk you through every step — answering all your questions and helping you find the paint, gloss, and color palette you’ll love. Guided by their Greener by Design® philosophy, they are devoted to preserving and protecting the environment. Dunn-Edwards paints have zero VOC colorants and are produced in the world’s only LEED Gold-certified paint manufacturing plant, making them safe for you and the environment. Visit their new location in Canyon Country on Soledad Canyon Rd. For a complete list of stores or to learn more about Dunn-Edwards visit DunnEdwards.com. Lic.#665826

Including:

utdoor living is wildly popular, as more and more homeowners are bringing elements once reserved for home interiors into their backyards. When designing outdoor living spaces, homeowners may learn about biophilic design, an architectural concept that aims to incorporate natural elements into outdoor living spaces. Proponents of biophilic design say it satisfies an innate human need to affiliate with nature, thereby helping

to reduce stress that people may experience after being stuck indoors for much of their days. Biophilic design is often part of a home interior design, but many homeowners also embrace it when designing their outdoor living spaces. For example, surrounding outdoor living areas with noninvasive plants, flowers and trees and using natural materials like wood and stone when building such spaces are great ways to embrace biophilic design and create a tension-free ambiance in outdoor living spaces.

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HOMEANDGARDEN

The benefits of a veggie garden

WaterSMART workshop helps customers save water and money

n these challenging times, SCV Water remains committed to helping our residential customers save water and money while staying safer at home with our new online WaterSMART Workshop. Users get the tips, tools and knowledge they need to use water more efficiently, as well as earn $20 for completing the workshop. Customers will learn how to handle the most common, but probably unnoticed, home water use issues. The fixes are typically cheap, quick and easy to make.

Useful water-saving knowledge for your home

As you’ve spent more time at home this past month, you may have started to notice more things about your home — like your water-use habits. And maybe there are a few you’d like to change. Our interactive workshop helps you get a better understanding of your

By Michele E. Buttelman Signal Staff Writer

current water use by teaching the basics of how to read and understand your water bill. You’ll also learn how to identify and fix leaks — a big water waster, both indoors and outside. At the end, a customized water report shows your water use indoors and outside as well as specific ways to save water (and money).

Program details

Visit WaterSmartWorkshop.com to get started! Customers will receive a $20 incentive for completing the workshop. Processing time may be delayed while stay-at-home orders are in place. NOTE: SCV Water’s free residential home checkups conducted by WaterWise have been put on hold in response to the governor’s Safer-atHome order.

pring has sprung, and with the danger of frost long past it is time to get your summer veggies into the ground. Gardens, of all kinds, can be challenging in the Santa Clarita Valley. Climate, soil and water can be daunting obstacles for even the most experienced gardener. However, with great risk comes great reward. The taste of fresh, homegrown vegetables makes all the effort worthwhile. In addition to knowing your vegetables are fresh, you’ll know they are safe to eat, because you can control the conditions, pesticides and fertilizers you use to grow your backyard bounty.

Benefits of veggie gardening Who knew that gardening could

be considered a full-body workout? Plucking, pulling, bending, kneeling, squatting, digging and lifting all require movement from various muscles in the body. It is a great alternative to the gym. Gardening also is a great way to relieve stress. Not only is playing in the dirt fun, the physical activity releases mood-elevating endorphins in your brain. Watching your garden bloom and grow gives a sense of satisfaction.

Community gardens

If you don’t have enough space in your backyard to dedicate to your garden, sign up for a plot in the Community Gardens of Santa Clarita at Central Park in Saugus. New garden members are given plenty of resources to help them succeed in their gardening journey. See VEGGIES, page 18

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HOMEANDGARDEN

Window Genie

erhaps the only upside of the ongoing pandemic is the mandated retreat among loved ones within the sanctuary of our homes. While working from home, schooling children, and planning meals, we’ve also had the opportunity to get up close and personal with deferred maintenance. When is the last time I washed that window? What is that vegetation growing in my rain gutter? By the size of the stain on that driveway, is there any oil left in the car? Particularly this spring, who has the time or the energy to take on the projects necessary to preserve our largest single investment? Window Genie of Santa Clarita is here to help. A nationally ranked, 25year old home care franchise serving Acton to Castaic, Window Genie is the SCV’s partner in protecting and enhancing your home. Service offerings include window cleaning, window tinting, gutter cleaning, solar panel cleaning, pressure washing and holiday lighting. Leave tedious and risky home maintenance tasks to the professionals. Tinting and solar panel cleaning pay for themselves in reduced energy costs while minimizing your carbon footprint. Window Genie offers a Streak-free guarantee on windows and a life-time warranty on window film. Fully bonded

VEGGIES

Continued from page 16

For information and a plot application, visit www.communitygardens ofsantaclarita.org.

Soil preparation

The most crucial step to any suc-

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and insured, Window Genie’s uniformed Technicians are rigorously background checked and thoroughly trained. The Window Genie franchise owner/operator has been a resident of the SCV for nearly 30 years. Although in operation for a little less than a year, this woman-owned business is well on its way toward an ultimate goal of world class customer service. Google reviews boast 4.9 out of 5 stars. With a score of 4.8/5.0, Window Genie is rated “Best of the Best” by Home Advisor. Common review themes emphasize professionalism, customer service and the work quality. Look around your sanctuary and then give Window Genie a call at (661) 568-6768. Estimates (over the phone or in person) are always free. Visit the website at www.windowgenie. com/santaclarita for additional information. cessful home garden is soil preparation. The SCV is notorious for having particularly awful soil. However, you’ll find bags and bags of soil amendments in every garden center in the SCV. The best amendment for soil of any texture is organic matter.

Drip irrigation

The best way to keep your SCV veggie garden watered at a price you can afford is to use drip irrigation. It is a way to put water right at the roots of the plants that need the water and away from pesky weeds, that you don’t want to water.

Gardening success

Rotate your crops in your garden. Don’t plant the same thing in the same place each year. Use good quality fertilizer. Don’t fear the manure, it is gardening gold. And remember, the seeds offered in local stores are all rated for this area. Good luck and good gardening.

M AY 17, 2020

LDI

Continued from page 7

SCV’s boundaries, homeowners associations have rules and regulations aimed at preserving beauty immediately surrounding our suburban homes and now, for most in the time being, our home offices, as well. Cleveland said as director of business development, she works a lot with property managers and their HOA boards, to create beautiful landscapes appreciated throughout the community. “My goal is to educate these clients on the importance of landscape maintenance,” she said. “Landscape maintenance can increase the value of your home by 10% to 15%, so I try to guide clients to be proactive with their landscape, instead of reactive, ultimately saving them dollars in the future, while protecting their investment.” And the recent growth at LDI means Cleveland is able to offer clients a much better value, in addition to a holistic approach to creating a new design or solving a current issue for an HOA — the team at Enhanced Landscape has everything from irrigation specialists to help with an all-important commodity in the California landscape, water, to design experts that will make sure it matches the client’s vision, Cleveland said. “We are a team of professionals who truly are dedicated,” Cleveland said, “we are certified in water management ... so therefore everything is in-house,” she added, mentioning services like their in-house team of arborists, “everything from landscape architecture to the construction to landscape maintenance.”

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 1 9

HOMEANDGARDEN Community footprint

While Landscape Development and Enhanced Landscape Management have grown their reputations on making eye-catching and sustainable landscapes, Horton has also made sure he’s been there when the community has had a need. Santa Clarita is his hometown, so when U.S. Marine Cpl. Josh Brubaker, who lost both of his legs to an IED while serving the country, needed landscaping help for his home, Horton was happy to support the Gary Sinise Foundation again with “the entire project. Whatever they need, make sure we take care of them,” Horton was quoted as saying at the time. Shortly thereafter, Brubaker received about 8,000 square feet of sod, 32 mixed-species trees and more than 200 shrubs with low water use — all in accordance with California’s Model Water Efficiency Landscape Ordinance. In 2018, a soil-erosion problem left a group of homeowners in Canyon Country with much of their backyards obliterated, having slid down into their neighbors’ lawns, fencing, plants and all. The team at LDI worked tirelessly around the clock to help rescue the residents’ properties, making the land safe, then mitigating the disaster for the homeowners. And in December, Horton’s company finished a pro bono repair of the medians on Commerce Center Drive in Castaic, which had fallen into disrepair as a result of statewide water-use restrictions. Horton said the run-down medians were a bit depressing for him, as someone who had pride in his hometown, so the company decided to “draw in a concept that is in keeping with the county’s new landscape design, and this was particularly designed to be very low maintenance.” The $60,000 donation of design and work from LDI made an improvement to not just the appearance of the area and the surrounding property values, but to the morale, too, according to another local business owner who worked in the area. “We moved into this area because of the nice environment that the commerce center provided, so I’m thrilled (it’s restored),” said Andrew Dervin, CEO of Valencia Pipe Co. “It’s beautiful, and is a really nice addition to the community.”

The work, and keeping his clients happy, is really what drives Epstein, he said, noting that while the pandemic has prompted the company to take a number of precautions for the safety of his team and clients, he’s still enjoying every day because each job

is a little different. “Our crews have adapted well and they’re grateful to still be working,” Epstein said. “Maintaining projects and watching things grow and mature is something we really enjoy doing.”

Efficiency on the landscape

ell-designed landscapes can save homeowners enough energy to make the projects pay for themselves in less than eight years, especially if homeowners’ landscaping strategies are designed for the climates in which they live. For example, homeowners who live in hot, arid regions should employ landscapes to shade their homes’ walls, windows and roof Shading is the most cost-effective way to reduce solar heat gain in a home, noting that well-planned landscapes can reduce previously unshaded homes’ air conditioning costs by as much as 50%. In tree-shaded neighborhoods, summer daytime air temperature can be up to six degrees cooler than the air temperature in treeless areas. Homeowners considering adding trees to their landscapes should know that deciduous trees shed their leaves annually, which means they will block solar heat in the summer but allow sunlight into the home in winter. Homeowners who want year-round shade might consider evergreen trees and shrubs. Courtesy of the Department of Energy

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HOMEANDGARDEN

Five tips for better home safety this spring

s people become more active during the warmer months, keeping home safety top of mind can sometimes go by the wayside. However, when it comes to fire and carbon monoxide safety, you can never be too prepared. Whether you are just beginning to take a stronger safety-first approach or looking to upgrade existing home safety equipment, keep these tips in mind as you spruce up your home for the season.

Don’t just check batteries, check the alarm

It’s a good idea to review your safety equipment and ensure everything is in good working order at least a couple times each year. For example, every type of smoke alarm must be completely replaced every 10 years whether it’s hardwired into your home or operates on a battery. New smoke alarms commonly come with builtin 10-year batteries, meaning no battery changes, but it’s a good idea to test the units regularly. In fact, most manufacturers recommend weekly. You can also use this time to double-check the gauge on your fire extinguishers, replace batteries in flashlights, test security systems and replenish first-aid kits.

Inspect and repair outdoor areas

Set aside time to evaluate any damage or potential hazards as the weather warms. For example, fallen tree branches and leaves can become trapped in gutters and pose a fire hazard. Shutters and fences can also weaken over time. To make sure they’re in good working condition, check that they are securely fastened.

Take advantage of smart technology

According to the National Fire Protection Association, 40 years ago people had an average of 17 minutes to escape a home fire, but today the average has decreased to about 3 minutes due to synthetic materials used in modern-day home furnishings. To get the earliest warning of a home fire, install wire-free interconnected battery-powered combination smoke and carbon monoxide alarms. When one alarm senses a hazard, all alarms throughout the home sound in unison. Features such as color-coded status rings and built-in 10-year sealed batteries make Kidde’s Wire-Free Interconnected Alarms a smart solution for optimal protection. They offer simple setup and operate without the hassle of hardwiring or a Wi-Fi connection.

Check appliances

While going through your spring home safety checklist, take time to check your appliances or schedule an annual maintenance check for your stove, oven, heating system and more. According to the American Red Cross, dryers are responsible for approximately 9 of every 10 appliances fires. These common household appliances can collect dust, lint and other particles, which are potential fire hazards and can cause carbon monoxide leaks.

Keep outdoor activities in mind

Cooking on grills is a popular pastime, but thousands of people are injured every year while using them. In fact, according to the National Fire Protection Association, nearly 9,000 home fires are started by grills each year. Now is a good time to get your home’s grilling area in tip-top shape. Keep a 3-foot safety zone around hot grills for children and pets, and have a fire extinguisher nearby as fires can occur unexpectedly. Propane and charcoal grills both put off carbon monoxide as a byproduct, so be sure keep your grill at least 10 feet from the home and ensure it is positioned away from windows, doors, vents and ductwork. For more safety tips to better prepare your home, visit Kidde.com. (Family Features)

M AY 17, 2020

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 2 1

Comfort foods made fast and healthy! By Healthy Exchanges

t’s May — and that means strawberry pie time! We’ve waited nearly a year for the most magnificent fruit of all to be in season again. And what better way to celebrate than with this scrumptious pie!

Strawberry Lovers’ Pie

4 cups sliced fresh strawberries 1 (6-ounce) graham cracker pie crust 1 (4-serving) package sugar-free vanilla cook-and-serve pudding mix 1 (4-serving) package sugar-free strawberry gelatin 1 1/2 cups water 1 cup reduced-calorie whipped topping

TRAILS

Continued from page 5

“After a rain is the best time to go because the waterfall will be running,” Erskine-Hellrigel said. Raleigh also considers this not only a very nice trail, but one of the ones with much less traffic.

Placerita Canyon

19152 Placerita Canyon Road, Newhall From the Nature Center, there are multiple trails to take, ranging from easy to hard. While the Hillside Trail includes some tough climbs, the Botany Trail is perfect for families with kids, complete with signage about plants and a Native American Wikiup along the way.

East Walker Ranch

16723 Placerita Canyon Road, Newhall This is another beautiful hike with plenty of wildlife and wildflowers. There are various trails, so you can make the hike as easy or tough as you’d like. “East Walker Ranch is a great hike with lots of nice hills that will get your heart pumping,” Erskine-Hellrigel said.

Elsmere Canyon

20303 Newhall Ave., Newhall Both Erskine-Hellrigel and Raleigh consider Elsmere a beautiful trail and true hidden gem, with a creek that runs in the winter and through the spring. With a number of trails of varying

FOOD

1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract 3 to 4 drops red food coloring 1. Evenly arrange strawberries in pie crust. In a large saucepan, combine dry pudding mix, dry gelatin and water. Cook over medium heat until mixture thickens and starts to boil, stirring often. Spoon hot sauce evenly over strawberries. 2. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours. Cut into 8 servings. In a small bowl, combine whipped topping, vanilla extract and red food coloring. Top each piece with a full tablespoon of topping mixture. Serves 8. * Each serving equals: 157 calories, 5g fat, 2g pro-

difficulty, this area offers hikers quick and easy to long and difficult options.

Pacific Crest Trail

This famous trail cuts through multiple locations across the SCV on its way from Mexico to Canada. “This national scenic trail traverses along the northern edge of the Santa Clarita Valley,” Raleigh said. Though many hikers trek across the country for this, SCV residents have the opportunity to do day hikes instead.

Try the app

The city of Santa Clarita offers a number of mobile apps, including Hike Santa Clarita, which allows users to learn more about local hiking trails, with helpful information, photos and interactive maps, according to Jeff Morrison, open space and trails administrator. “Trail users can easily find new places to hike, bike and or ride horses,” Morrison said via email. “Also, when out in the open space, if directions are needed they can tap their trail in the app, review trail details and follow along.” In the future, the city plans to add an emergency locating layer to the app to help identify precise locations, Morrison added. For more information, visit hikesantaclarita.com.

Join the club

Started by people with a passion for hiking and in an effort to teach people how to do it safely, the Community Hiking Club has been around for nearly two decades. In addition to hiking trails all over

Off-duty L.A. County Fire Department firefighter Kevin Stickles, far right, walks behind his son Blake, on his bicycle, while his wife, Kayley, pushes a stroller containing their son Brett Monday afternoon as their family takes advantage of recently opened trails in Towsley Canyon. PHOTO BY BOBBY BLOCK / THE SIGNAL

the SCV and surrounding areas, as well as going on camping excursions, the group strives to keep the area beautiful by cleaning up trash, removing graffiti and more. For more information, visit communityhikingclub.org.

Volunteer

Join the SCV Trail Users, a committee of the nonprofit Concerned OffRoad Bicyclists Association, to not only create new trails, but also maintain existing ones across the SCV. “We’ve been working with the city, collaborating with (L.A.) County and even the (U.S.) Forest Service to expand and maintain trail opportunities here in the SCV for all non-motor-

ized users,” Raleigh said. For more information, visit facebook. com/groups/scvtrailusers.

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BEAUTY

Bad habits that may be affecting your appearance

ho doesn’t want to look and feel her best? Many women go to great lengths in the name of beauty. But not every beauty tip or practice is beneficial. Women may be tempted to repeat bad beauty habits when they get the desired results, but doing so can put their bodies at risk. Turning a blind eye to these habits is never a good idea. In fact, recognizing potential beauty pitfalls and how to avoid them can promote longterm health, and nothing is more beautiful than that. • Failure to drink enough water. One of the most effective ways to nurture skin comes right out of the tap in the kitchen sink. When people forget to drink adequate amounts of water, loss of fluids can result in dry skin that may have a tired, faded look. Even subtle wrinkles may become more pronounced as a result. • Getting tan from the sun or tanning beds. A warm, golden glow is a hallmark of long days spent in the great outdoors. Many aspire to have a beauti-

ful tanned look and will spend hours in the sun or at tanning salons. Dermatologists warn that ultraviolet rays that come from the sun or tanning beds can be very harmful to the skin, even if you do not burn. Premature aging and skin cancer are two risks. • Wearing dark nail polish. Polishing nails can coordinate with style trends. Women who regularly polish their nails with dark hues and leave the color on too long may find their nails become discolored, especially after using less expensive polishes with powerful dyes. Change nail colors and give nails time to recover between applications. • Using dirty makeup brushes. Cosmetics can completely transform appearance, often with minimal effort. By failing to clean brushes after frequent use, women are potentially exposing themselves to bacteria and other microorganisms that congregate on brushes and applicators. This bacteria eventually can spread into the beauty products themselves.

significant. The wellness resource Verywell Health says popping pimples forces pore debris deeper into follicles, can make blemishes worse and increases the chances of developing acne scars and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. Use a warm compress on pimples to speed up the natural healing process instead of popping them.

• Popping pimples. The temptation to pop pimples is

• Taking hot showers. While this may be more of a con-

cern in winter, when a steamy shower is the perfect way to chase away the chill, water that is too hot can remove a layer of the protective oils on skin and hair. Moderate the temperature instead. Bad beauty habits can compromise women’s appearance and their overall well-being. Some women may benefit from changing their beauty routines. (MC)

Hair color tips and tricks for the best color results

air coloring serves various purposes. Some women use differently hued tresses to make dramatic statements, while others want to conceal some gray hairs. Still, some appreciate how hair color can plump up hair follicles and contribute to fullness.

According to Fash, a company that connects millions of customers to the best local professionals, salon coloring and highlights cost between $60 and $150 on average. Boxed color kits can cost anywhere from $6 to $15. With so much coloring going on, it can be helpful to learn the basics and some coloring tips and techniques to

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improve the appearance and health of your hair. • Color results will vary from the box model. At-home color kits only reflect the color on the box if you have never before dyed your hair and if your hair is lighter than the color on the box. Hair that has already been dyed may turn up a different shade. • Beware of “hot roots.” People who regularly touch up their hair to combat roots or new gray growth may end up with “hot roots.” This happens when the scalp glows brighter and reflects a warmer tone than the rest of the hair since it is virgin hair and reacts differently to the lift and deposit of color. In general, using a color that’s the same level or darker than existing color-treated hair can help women avoid hot roots. • Save major color changes for the salon. One of the biggest mistakes peo-

ple who dye their hair at home make is trying a dramatic transition on their own. Celebrity colorist Kari Hill advises women to stay within two shades, lighter or darker, of their current color when dabbling at home. More dramatic shifts require multiple processes that are best left to professional colorists. • Try a balayage technique. Many women extend time between salon visits by investing in balayage instead of traditional highlights. This technique does not usually go all the way to the root of the hair, making it appear more natural as hair grows out. Ombre techniques also can help camouflage root growth. Invest in a sulfate-free shampoo. After dying, sulfate-free products can help extend the life of the color. Many women color their hair. Learning the right techniques and employing some helpful hints can improve the end result. (MC)

M AY 17, 2020

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 2 3

Five tips to help fight sleep deprivation

espite a desire for perfect sleep, Americans are not even close to getting the recommended eight hours a night, and 1 in 4 Americans believes the sleep they are getting isn’t the quality rest they want and need. “To put sleep deprivation into perspective, 37% of Americans report they have fallen asleep behind the wheel,” said Dr. Sujay Kansagra, a sleep health expert for Mattress Firm. “About 5% report falling asleep while driving on a monthly basis. Clearly, sleep deprivation is wide-spread and a risk factor for overall well-being.” With chronic sleep deprivation, the brain’s ability to maintain attention and focus continues to decline over time. In addition to impairing mental function, lack of sleep has been associated with a host of risks to overall health. Prevent sleep deprivation and take charge of your mental and physical health with these tips from Kansagra:

Nap responsibly

When you’re feeling tired, it’s no surprise the best solution may be sleep. Some research suggests a quick power nap can actually give you a stronger boost than caffeine. However, too much rest during the day can throw off your nighttime sleep pattern. Aim for no more than 20 minutes so you don’t wake up groggy, and time your nap for the mid-point of your wake cycle (halfway between when you wake up and go to sleep).

Limit screen time

If you turn to your phone to help wind down while you’re in bed, you’re not alone, but you may be doing more harm than good. According to a survey conducted by Mattress Firm on sleep habits, the average person scrolls on his or her phone while lying in bed for more than 12 minutes before shutting down for the night. What’s more, the light from the screen serves as a stimulant, as does the digital content you’re viewing. That means you’re making it physically harder to fall asleep than if you put down your devices at least 30 minutes before bed.

Stick to a sleep schedule

The average person gets less than six hours of sleep per night, according to the survey — a far cry from the eight hours most experts recommend. One way to buck this trend is to make it a point to turn in and wake up at the same time every day so you synchronize your sleep time with your internal clock. While eight hours is the standard, you may need to adjust up or down to find the amount sleep that lets you wake feeling rested.

Develop a pre-bedtime routine You can train your body to prepare for sleep by creating a pattern or a routine that eases you toward sleep. “Even something as simple as putting on a sleep mWask each night, reading in bed for 20 minutes or practicing the same shower routine at the same time every night signals to your brain it’s time to hit the hay,”

Top five bedtime rituals

consistent bedtime routine, including these common rituals disclosed by respondents in a Mattress Firm survey, can help ease your way toward better rest. Here are the top five.

H E A LT H

1. Reading (42%) 2. Watching TV (42%) 3. Taking vitamins (36%) 4. Taking a shower or bath (36%) 5. Drinking warm milk (36%)

PHOTO COURTESY GETTY IMAGES

Kansagra said. “Creating a bedtime routine that lasts 20-30 minutes and sticking to that routine can make all the difference in your energy, productivity and mood.”

Find the right sleep position

If you’re looking for the secret to a good night’s sleep, comfort may be the key. According to the survey, those who sleep on their backs at night are most likely to report they

slept “perfectly well.” The most common sleeping position, on your side, correlates with the worst sleep reports. It may take some trial and error to find the right position that keeps your spine aligned, allows you to breathe freely and evenly distributes your weight. Find more tips for getting better sleep at dailydoze.com. (Family Features)

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M AY 17, 2020

PETS

Canine separation anxiety post stay-at-home order

or almost all of us, we have been on “sit and stay” for more than two months. The only person happy about this is the dog. The question is, when we return to some normalcy, and head back to work, or to re-start life, what will be the effect on our canines? Some dogs are at higher risk for anxiety when we return to our new normal. Dogs previously diagnosed with Canine Separation Anxiety should return to preventative measures before the owner returns to work. For dogs adopted during the “stay at home” regulations, their new owners should start leaving the dog alone for short periods of time, testing reactions. For the dog never exhibiting any tendency toward anxiety, owners should be vigilant; the events of the past two months were anxiety-producing for all of us, and that includes the canines. Fortunately, new drug-

free solutions are now available to help our canine companions feel calmer. “Research shows that more than one in seven dogs (13 million) in the U.S. suffer from separation anxiety. We expect this figure to dramatically increase once stay at home restrictions are lifted,” said Dr. Judy Korman, veterinarian at Assisi Animal Health. “What might be initially viewed as bad behavior is actually a cry for help.” When Jen Berger first got her bulldog Eggnog, she was a joy until Jen had to leave the house. Eggnog paced constantly until she returned. Jen thought this was simply due to Eggnog’s young age, but instead of the problem improving as she grew, it actually got worse.

Symptoms of canine separation anxiety

Dogs with separation anxiety panic and exhibit behavior problems when they can’t be with their owners. Below, Dr. Korman shares the most

common symptoms of separation anxiety: Vocalizing Barks, howls or whines when you leave or while you’re gone. Escaping Chews or scratches at doors or windows in an attempt to escape the home, a crate or exercise pen. Destructiveness Chews or scratches on household items when you’re gone. Pacing Constant walking in a circle or back and forth as you’re leaving or when you’re gone. Panting Heavy breathing as you’re leaving or after you’re gone. Self-harm Obsessively licks or chews paws, legs or tail when you’re gone. Potty accidents Urinates and/ or defecates when you’re gone, even though they’re house-trained.

Solutions for separation anxiety in dogs

There are several treatment options if your dog has separation anxiety, including training techniques, medication and non-prescription therapies. Jen worked with her veterinarian and initially decided to put Eggnog on anxiety medication. Then she learned more about anxiety in dogs and a drug-free solution called Calmer Canine. “In dogs with separation anxiety, the area of the brain responsible for processing emotions and detecting fear goes into overdrive. This area is

called the amygdala,” said Dr. Korman. “The result is an imbalance of chemicals and hormones that leads to behavior changes.” Based on technology that has been used to treat medical conditions in humans (including anxiety and mood disorders) since the 1970s and with a similar approach to what’s been used to treat pain and inflammation in more than 50,000 animals, Dr. Korman and a team of veterinarians, neurobiologists and engineers developed a safe and effective way to treat anxiety in a dog’s brain. The result is the only drug-free product invented to treat dogs diagnosed with separation anxiety. For Eggnog, Calmer Canine was the right solution. After using the device for six weeks with two 15-minute treatments per day, her separation anxiety improved greatly. “We recently received her progress update and were thrilled to learn that Eggnog’s pacing and panting symptoms are much less and that she has been removed from her anxiety medications completely,” said Dr. Korman. Symptoms of separation anxiety can mimic other issues, such as a medical condition or age-related behaviors. To learn if your dog might be suffering from separation anxiety, visit www.calmerk9.com, take the quiz and learn more about treatments. (BPT)

M AY 17, 2020

A SECOND WIND

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 2 5

SENIORLIVING

What’s next: taking stock By Mary Petersen Signal Staff Writer

s March blurred into April and now April into May, we’ve grown accustomed to losing track of days and feeling a little disoriented. We’ve been thrust into a volatile, protracted crisis with no clear resolution. We have had to make huge changes to our daily routines. Everyday activities that we previously completed without thinking, now require conscious decision making. Going out in public is accompanied by meticulous preparations. Social interactions are modulated by masks and rubber gloves. We navigate through muffled voices, lack of eye contact and absence of facial expressions. We no longer touch one another. This crisis has upended our comforting and predictable routines, and we long for our jobs, our family gatherings, and the stable health of our nation. It’s been traumatic, but Harvard psychologist Dr. Susan David says that this kind of disruption can be liberating. “People who’ve gone through trauma or struggle in the way that we are experiencing now, can receive enormous growth and power from it,” she says. This is not to downplay the health and financial tragedies of this pandemic which we may feel for years. But, says Dr. David, “Disruption and isolation have a way of encouraging us to re-evaluate our lives — and that can be generative.” As long as life takes the same predictable path, and we’re humming along on autopilot, we don’t question our habits, patterns or beliefs. Having to be inconvenienced, to do without first world luxuries and to change ways of interacting yanks us out of our comfort zone. It evokes feelings of fear, anger and helplessness. But pausing to process these emotions and monitor our responses to

daily challenges provides us selfknowledge. It helps us to reconsider priorities. Things that seemed so important months ago now seem petty, and things we took for granted now seem precious. Forced to stay sequestered at home during these uncertain times has provided time to reflect on how life is going and consider any changes we want to make. Like all of us, I have been reshaped by this pandemic. I may never again look at a cardboard box without fearing the Covid-19 molecule is lurking invisibly. It will be awhile before I’m back to hugging friends. I wonder when I’ll stop washing my hands 20 times a day. I adopted new habits, some driven by anxiety, to cope with these circumstances, and as time goes on I will have to discard those that diminish resilience and retain those that promote well-being. Embracing a slower pace with fewer obligations and appointments, reaching out to others more frequently and prioritizing self-care are healthy habits I want to keep. We are living through a historical event that most of us say is unparalleled in our lives. Times of struggle can pave the way for transformation. There are insights to be gleaned, “diamonds in the dustheap” to borrow a phrase from Virginia Woolf. How we respond to these challenges and changes can foster growth and empowerment and will determine the quality of our lives going forward. Mary Petersen is a retired COC English instructor, 30-year SCV resident and two-time breast cancer survivor.

Especially now, family time is precious. Senior isolation is one of our worries during this time as everyone stays home, but we are here for you and we are still taking calls and emails. If you or a loved one needs help with their hearing aids please reach out.

We will continue to offer limited services for our patients. We also want to offer you some specials. •

We will help keep your hearing aids working. Call us to find out what our limited services include.

•

Inventory Clearance Special $1,500 off our everyday prices on our mid to high-end hearing aids when pre-ordered. Offer valid while supplies last.

•

Wireless Bluetooth Transmitter Special Call us to see if your hearing aid is compatible for a wireless transmitter to make your TV and music stream to your hearing aids.

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Opinion

MAY 17, 2020

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

READERLETTERS

COVID-19 Message for Parents Those of you who lived on the East Coast in the 1960s may remember a New York television station’s public service announcement every night that said, “It’s 10 pm. Do you know where your children are?” In the last few days traveling around Saugus and Valencia, I realize many parents don’t know where their children are. Many kids, out of school, are forced to find ways to keep busy. Unfortunately, they are riding their bicycles close together, walking and talking with friends, and sitting around face to face, catching up on all the latest news as if nothing has happened since the middle of March. None of the 12- to 18-year-olds I see are wearing any protective covering at all. This is a message for all parents. For those of you who don’t believe this virus is a problem, think again. Get your information from health experts. Educate and protect your children. Know where they are and what they are doing. Not only can they become infected, but also they can infect you and your entire family. If you have to go shopping, leave your children at home. Take them for a walk in the park instead, where you are less likely to be exposed to other people. Make sure you have masks, wipes and gloves before going out. Protect yourselves and your children. Life is going to be different for us now. Randi Kay Saugus

Thank You for Blumel Letter Thank you for printing the letter from Jim Blumel Sr. in the Sunday Signal (May 10), “Our Freedoms and COVID-19.” The letter expressed my own sentiments and my same concerns. Judy Propri Castaic Submit a Letter to the Editor

Include name, address & phone; 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.

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

COVID-19 and Our Responsibility By David Hegg

get it. This season is unique but at times morphs into an unwanted normal. Sometimes I don’t know what day it is. Weekends seem like weekdays, and weekdays seem like weekends but neither feels right. Is anyone else running a prolonged low-grade emotional fever while unable to put your finger on the cause? Every day I’m scanning the news for signs of improvement only to find two things to be true. First, I have no way of knowing what is actually true. Have you noticed that? Has it dawned on you that we have to believe a whole series of “go betweens,” all of whom have their own slant, bias, or agenda? And guess what? We’re all tempted to believe those who give us information that supports our own slant, bias, and agenda. And adding to the confusion is the fact that, while millions have the virus, and thousands are dying, I seem to be living in a nice safe bubble. I don’t know anyone who has died. I go to Target and Home Depot and the crowds are shockingly large, but I’m told I can’t have 10 of my friends in my house to share a beverage and study the Bible. Huh? Second, according to my scorecard, the hopeful news and the “sky is falling” news refuse to interact with one another. Have you noticed? There seem to be two teams, each with their own scientists, politicians, clergy, celebrities, and a group of fanatical followers who have just enough information to make them talk like experts on the internet. When I add the impossibility of knowing what is really true, to the constant drip of conflicting information, I end up feeling like the man in a round room hoping to find a corner. And that is infuriating, exhausting and prone to make me binge-watch Hallmark. And now we’re all having to think about moving out of our bubbles, masks on, trying to forge another rhythm of life that is neither what it used to be, nor what we’ve adopted the last few months. It is new territory with unknowns around every corner that are

sure to produce more questions, cause more arguments, and shine a more powerful light on the erosion of our freedoms that we’ve tried to ignore. So, where do our ethics come into play? Here’s a couple suggestions about how I hope to make decisions and order my life going forward. First, I must take emotion out of my decision-making. This is not the time to act foolish because some talk show host insists I should help bring about another Boston Tea Party. If I’m going to join the civil disobedience crowd, it can’t be because I’m convinced some talking head is the newest reincarnation of Paul Revere. Second, I’ve got to take selfishness out of the equation. Turns out I don’t live in a bubble. I live in a neighborhood, and a wonderful city. Like it or not, everything I do has an effect on others. Add to that the scary thought that my actions will influence others to act, and I must always be careful to model behavior I won’t later regret. When I act selfishly, without regard to those in my sphere of influence, I play the fool. Lastly, I must put the whole of my ethical system into the equation. Turns out I’m not my own. Jesus rescued, redeemed and restored me and is working now to reform my life according to his own. Simply put, as a Christ-follower, I represent him, and how I act in this crazy season must be driven by my desire to live out his grace and truth. So, here we go! We’re “reopening” life in hopes that we’re not reopening another round of death. It is a scary time, and scary times call for sharp thinking, rational behavior, and love of neighbor. Be careful out there, and until we know for sure what we hope to know for sure, and have a proven defense against the virus, can we all just love each other enough to err on the side of caution? Besides, haven’t we actually enjoyed being home with those we love just a bit more? I have. Now, please pass me the Cheetos and the remote. Local resident David Hegg is senior pastor of Grace Baptist Church. “Ethically Speaking” appears Sundays.

M AY 17, 2020

SOLUTIONS

PUZZLES

S U N D AYS I G N A L Î‡ 2 7

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