Sunday Signal May 30, 2021

Valencia | Saugus | Newhall | Canyon Country | Stevenson Ranch | Westridge | Castaic | Val Verde 2021 ‘BEST OF’ BALLOT INSIDE

MAY 30, 2021

In Honor of their Sacrifice Your News, Entertainment & Lifestyle Source

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KEEPING IT COOL WITH FROZEN TREATS

16

HEALTHY WAYS TO MAINTAIN IN ALLERGY SEASON

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MANAGING SEPARATION ANXIETY WITH YOUR PETS

PLUS : CITY NEWS | OPINION | SCHOOL | ENTERTAINMENT | CALENDAR | HEALTH & FITNESS

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M AY 30, 2021

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 3

TABLE OF CONTENTS

NEWS FEATURES

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MEMORIAL DAY

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FROM THE CITY MANAGER

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4 5 6 12

Cool treats for when the heat is rising Memorial Day BBQ Seniors looking for love in a post-pandemic world On the hunt for hummus

7 Memorial Day traces back to the Civil War 8 Honoring those who fought for our freedom

FINANCE 10 10 What to know before claiming Social Security benefits

ENTERTAINMENT 11 1 1 Winners: Reminiscing through 1971, the sport of kings 13 Fast times, fun nights at The Canyon

HOME 14 14 Hire smart for your home remodeling projects

SENIOR LIVING

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15 What seniors should know about herbal medicines

HEALTH 16 16 Promoting health during allergy season

GARDENING 17 17 SCV gardening tips for the month of June

“BEST OF” BALLOT 18 PETS 20 20 How to help manage pet separation anxiety

KIDS & FAMILY

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2 1 Donna’s Day: Tin-can Stacked Caprese Salad Junior Whirl • Did you know? • How they say that in …

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661-259-1234 The entire content of the Sunday Signal is copyrighted 2021 by Paladin Multi-Media Group, Inc. All submitted letters and columns are strictly the opinions of the authors and not necessarily those of the publisher. All rights are reserved and no part of this publication may be reproduced without written permission of the publisher. If you would not like this delivered to your home, please call (661) 259-1000.

4 · S U N D AYS I G N A L

M AY 30, 2021

N E W S F E AT U R E

Cool treats for when the heat is rising

By Caleb Lunetta Signal Staff Writer

S

ummer in the Santa Clarita Valley can take many forms, whether it be midday water balloon fights at the park, long bike rides on the paseos or heading to a movie in the early evening hours on a weekday.

However, where do you go after these types of activities? How do you top off a great day outside enjoying the summer sun?

With a variety of selections from local ice cream and cold dessert establishments sprinkled throughout the local community, that’s how.

Whether going for the staple trademark of Thrifty’s ice cream, or cashing in on your summer birthday with a free scoop at Baskin & Robbins, there’s a smorgasbord of options available to people, and a variety of traditions that come along with families treating themselves.

But there are a number of new locations or hidden gems in the Santa Clarita Valley as well that have frozen themselves within the local treat lexicon. And they’re looking to help you and your family continue their hot summer day enjoyment.

Wafflecomb

If heading home to fast while driving down Soledad or fighting your way through rush-hour traffic on Bouquet, you might miss Wafflecomb, a small ice cream shop tucked away near the same intersection as bustling hotspots like Schoonerville, Schooners and a number of gas stations and fast-food establishments.

But the store takes pride in its namesake, so much so that the dessert which comes in a “bubble waffle” cone and originated on the streets of Hong Kong is their only product.

Established three years ago, and popularized on SCV Instagram due to their litany of interesting flavors and toppings (that come free with every cone), such as their Cookie Monster flavor — cookies ’n’ cream ice cream that’s colored blue.

According to Riley Delasalas, whose family opened their first store to serve their local community in the Canyon Country and Saugus area, the fascination with their product is the

result of the colors and cone.

“We make fresh bubble waffles, which originated in Hong Kong, and is served with soft serve ice cream,” said Delasalas. “(A bubble waffle) is basically an ‘egg waffle’ where the main ingredient is egg and made with our special waffle makers, hence the name.”

She said she always hears is how sweet the waffle is, because, as she puts it, is it is far different than a Belgian waffle.

The Cookie Monster ice cream idea, a customer favorite Delasalas said, in addition to their numerous other flavors, was a “simple” invention by their family, but is a crowd-pleaser.

Wafflecomb is located at 26240 Bouquet Canyon Road.

D.W. Cookie

A treat for many families over the years, D.W. Cookie has given their customers the opportunity to take scoop of ice cream and smash it in between one of the approximate dozen different types of cookie flavors.

Owner Devar Ward says the cookie sandwich is a favorite among the guests who come, who can also get the ice cream and/or cookies separately.

“Usually, we have anywhere between nine and 13 different flavors of cookies,” said Ward. “And then for ice cream we have the basic chocolate, vanilla, and we do have a house strawberry cheesecake that’s a favorite.”

According to Ward, a number of people come into the business on Tuesdays and Thursdays for the $1 off the sandwich specials, whether through word of mouth or walking off the street.

In addition to the sandwiches, the shop also provides sundaes with one cookie, a scoop of ice cream and toppings.

D.W. Cookie is located at 18962 Soledad Canyon Road.

Cunchy’s Fruit

Made with fruit from the back or served alongside a separate order of homemade, in-house ice cream, people are said to flock to Cunchy’s Fruit in Canyon Country to try their raspados shaved ice desserts.

Owner Devar Ward displays a cookie sundae at the D.W. Cookie Company in Santa Clarita. PHOTO BY DAN WATSON / THE SIGNAL

“We’re known for our raspados because, again, they’re made with 100% real fruit,” said Jackie Alanis, manager at Cunchy’s. “If you’re looking for something like passion fruit, it’s not powder or anything like some other places. We use the actual fruit.”

In addition to using seasonal fruits such as guava, pomegranate, raspberries, blueberries and grape during certain times of the year, the restaurant also boasts having pineapple, watermelon, mango and coconut that can be served with the shaved ice.

“If you’re looking for a great beverage, we can have that if it’s the right season,” said Alanis. “We also have honey-based options, dairy-based options, sugar-based options, depending on your preference.”

Cunchy’s also boasts having their homemade ice cream be so fresh, and made with fruit they chop themselves, that customers remark that it’s visible how good it looks.

“They make (the ice cream) in the back, and, for example, the strawberries are 100% actual strawberries, there’s no artificial flavorings or

powder or anything,” said Alanis. “A lot of our customers, when they get the scoop of strawberries, are like, ‘Oh my god, you can see the little (seeds) in the ice cream’ because everything is made with actual fruit.”

“It is not a fast-food restaurant,” said Alanis. “So, we do take our time with our products .. and the quality of our products is always good.”

Cunchy’s is located at 27219 Camp Plenty Road. 

M AY 30, 2021

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 5

N E W S F E AT U R E S

By Michele E. Buttelman Signal Staff Writer

M

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.”

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.

package, then pierce it in several places with a bamboo skewer.

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.

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.

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.

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

My favorite Coleslaw

the corn and shower with Parmesan.

Season with chili powder.

For one cup of dressing use

5 large potatoes (Yukons or Russets) 2 hard-boiled eggs, chopped 1/2 cup chopped celery 4 green onions, chopped 1 can whole, large olives, sliced 1 8 oz. jar whole green olives with pimento, sliced 6 large radishes, sliced

3/4 cup of mayonnaise 1/4 cup of sour cream 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar 1 tbsp lemon juice 2 tbsp sugar Celery seed, salt and pepper 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.

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

Grilled Mexican Street Corn 4 ears corn 1/2 cup mayonnaise 1 1/2 cups sour cream 1/4 cup chopped cilantro 1 cup grated Parmesan

Wrap the ribs in foil and place in refrigerator until ready to BBQ. The next day Heat grill to 225F.

One lime, cut in half, to squeeze over cooked corn

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.

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

parted friend Chris Dougherty.

Exact ratio of cabbage to carrots and other veggies is up to the individual.

Shred a small head of cabbage and 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.

Red chili powder, to taste

This is my favorite homemade coleslaw recipe, courtesy of my dear, de-

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

Michele’s Homemade Potato Salad 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.

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. 

6 · S U N D AYS I G N A L

M AY 30, 2021

N E W S F E AT U R E

Seniors looking for love in a post-pandemic world

Web apps and online sites have made it easier than ever for people of all ages to enter the dating world, and online classes can provide a relatively stress-free way to meet people of similar interests, too, according to the experts. (MC) Right: Jose Jimenez, left, and Dottie Healy dance to Irish songs at the Senior Center’s 2019 St. Patrick’s Day celebration. Community get-togethers are already started to slowly return. PHOTO BY DAN WATSON / THE SIGNAL

By Raychel Stewart Signal Staff Writer

F

or people over the age of 55, dating could be a challenging aspect of life to navigate and, after about a year of isolation due to the COVID-19 pandemic, getting out there might seem even more overwhelming.

As businesses and activities begin to reopen in a post-pandemic atmosphere, seniors who are looking to get back out in the dating world are doing so just like their Gen X, Millennial and Gen Z counterparts — with the use of dating apps, online networks and community events to meet new people.

The top methods for seniors to meet other people were being introduced by mutual friends, dating apps or websites and local events, such as parties or community activities, according to a 2021 study of senior dating by Choice Mutual.

“For anyone who wants to date now that things are opening back up, definitely look into your community events or find groups that partake in activities you’re interested in,” said Collette Gee, a dating and relationship specialist and founder of the relationship-consulting business Finding Happily, based in Los Angeles.

“Find like-minded people: If you like to bike, find a biking group; if you

like to bird watch, find a group for that. Try to connect with others based on your interests.”

Because of the COVID-19 pandemic, many activities have moved to an online platform and still offer online options even though businesses reopen. Gee said virtual classes are an easy way to meet people who don’t feel comfortable in group settings just yet.

“Utilizing online events is a great way for anyone to meet new people,” she added. “There are virtual classes for almost anything now, you can sign up for a virtual cooking class, wine tasting, book clubs and so much more. You’re able to talk virtually with someone and it doesn’t require you to leave the house right away.”

Another online resource she recommends to people wanting to date is to use dating app and websites. There, people can sort what they’re hoping to find in a partner and meeting faceto-face isn’t immediately required.

“I was intimidated to start but once (my dating profile) was all set up it wasn’t hard at all,” said 71-year-old Sydney Tucker, who resides in Canyon Country. “I’m a people person, so I didn’t find it difficult to speak with anyone I matched with. It was a fun and easy process that ended up being very rewarding.”

Tucker, who used the dating app Tinder to find her current part-

ner whom she’s been in a relationship with for a few months, said her friends talked her into downloading the app and her daughter helped set up her profile.

Tucker moved to the Santa Clarita Valley in 2016 with her husband, who died shortly before the pandemic settled into L.A. County. After some time, she downloaded the app in hopes of finding a “significant relationship,” she said.

“Once everything was sat up it seemed like I was getting a lot of responses right away,” Tucker said. “It was wonderful because I was able to see who was out there and match with people I felt like I could relate with.”

Tucker said she was able to partake in online dating despite the pandemic, adding that it was easier to converse with people over messaging than meeting face-to-face. Another perk from online dating was the ability to disconnect from people easily. She said if things didn’t work out, or there were instances where a user would need to be reported, it was simple to move on and didn’t have any “awkward tension.”

“If people are thinking about giving it a try, I’d tell them to not be afraid,” Tucker said. “You have the discretion and are able to disconnect with people at any time. For me, it was less awkward than meeting someone in person. Things can go at your

own pace through an app, it’s fun and steady.”

Gee said it could be difficult to use online platforms to meet new people, and now that events and activities are reopening, it could be a great way to interact with new people. She added that activities and events should be utilized for an individual’s interests, not for the sole purpose of dating.

Volunteering is an effective way to meet new people, Gee said, since volunteer work is based on interests, it’s an easy way for people to meet others who share the same interests, whether it be at a church or hospital.

“The best way to find someone is by holding on to your interests and putting yourself out there,” Gee said. “I advise people to smile and be friendly to other people while they’re grocery shopping or doing other mundane errands. Presenting yourself in a friendly way will help you meet more people, even if you’re just at the store.”

The Bella Vida Santa Clarita Valley Senior Center is located at 27180 Golden Valley Road, Santa Clarita. It can be reached by calling (661) 2599444. For information about events, visit myscvcoa.org. 

M AY 30, 2021

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 7

Memorial Day traces back to the Civil War

T

hree years after the Civil War ended, on May 5, 1868, the head of an organization of Union veterans — the Grand Army of the Republic — established Decoration Day as a time for the nation to decorate the graves of the war dead with flowers. Maj. Gen. John A. Logan declared that Decoration Day should be observed on May 30. It is believed that date was chosen because flowers would be in bloom all over the country.

The first large observance was held that year at Arlington National Cemetery, across the Potomac River from Washington, D.C. The ceremonies centered around the mourningdraped veranda of the Arlington mansion, once the home of Gen. Robert E. Lee. Various Washington officials, including Gen. and Mrs. Ulysses S. Grant, presided over the ceremonies. After speeches, children from the Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Orphan Home and members of the GAR made their way through the cemetery, strewing flowers on both Union and Confederate graves, reciting prayers and singing hymns.

Local observances claim to be first

Local springtime tributes to the Civil War dead already had been held in various places. One of the first occurred in Columbus, Mississippi, April 25, 1866, when a group of women visited a cemetery to decorate the graves of Confederate soldiers who had fallen in battle at Shiloh. Nearby were the graves of Union soldiers, neglected because they were the enemy. Disturbed at the sight of the bare graves, the women placed some of their flowers on those graves, as well.

Today, cities in the North and the South claim to be the birthplace of Memorial Day in 1866. Both Macon and Columbus, Georgia, claim the title, as well as Richmond, Virgina. The village of Boalsburg, Pennsylvania, claims it began there two years earlier.

A stone in a Carbondale, Illinois, cemetery carries

M E M O R I A L D AY

the statement that the first Decoration Day ceremony took place there on April 29, 1866. Carbondale was the wartime home of Gen. Logan. Approximately 25 places have been named in connection with the origin of Memorial Day, many of them in the South where most of the war dead were buried.

Official birthplace declared

In 1966, Congress and President Lyndon Johnson declared Waterloo, New York, the “birthplace” of Memorial Day. There, a ceremony on May 5, 1866, honored local veterans who had fought in the Civil War. Businesses closed and residents flew flags at half-staff. Supporters of Waterloo’s claim say earlier observances in other places were either informal, not community-wide or one-time events.

By the end of the 19th century, Memorial Day ceremonies were being held on May 30 throughout the nation. State legislatures passed proclamations designating the day, and the Army and Navy adopted regulations for proper observance at their facilities.

It was not until after World War I, however, that the day was expanded to honor those who have died in all American wars. In 1971, Memorial Day was declared a national holiday by an act of Congress, though it is still often called Decoration Day. It was then also placed on the last Monday in May, as were some other federal holidays.

Some have confederate observances

Many Southern states also have their own days for honoring the Confederate dead. Mississippi celebrates Confederate Memorial Day on the last Monday of April, Alabama on the fourth Monday of April and Georgia on April 26. North and South Carolina observe it on May 10, Louisiana on June 3 and Tennessee calls that date Confederate Decoration Day. Texas celebrates Confederate Heroes Day January 19 and Virginia calls the last Monday in May Confederate Memorial Day. Gen. Logan’s order for his posts to decorate graves in 1868 “with the choicest flowers of springtime” urged, “We should guard their graves with sacred vigilance. … Let pleasant paths invite the coming and going of reverent visitors and fond mourners. Let no neglect, no ravages of time, testify to the present or to the coming generations that we have forgotten as a people the cost of a free and undivided republic.”

The crowd attending the first Memorial Day ceremony at Arlington National Cemetery was approximately the same size as those that attend today’s observance, about 5,000 people. Then, as now, small American flags were placed on each grave — a tradition followed at many national cemeteries today. In recent years, the custom has grown in that

Flags were placed at each grave in Arlington National Cemetary on its first Memorial Day celebration. That tradition stands today and across the nation as a way to honor the fallen heroes. COURTESY PHOTOS

Decoration Day was established three years after the end of the Civil War. It was a time to decorate the graves of the war dead with flowers.

many families decorate the graves of all departed loved ones.

The origins of special services to honor those who die in war can be found in antiquity. The Athenian leader Pericles offered a tribute to the fallen heroes of the Peloponnesian War more than 24 centuries ago that could be applied today to the 1.1 million Americans who have died in the nation’s wars. “Not only are they commemorated by columns and inscriptions, but there dwells also an unwritten memorial of them, graven not on stone but in the hearts of men.”

To ensure the sacrifices of America ’s fallen heroes are never forgotten, in December 2000, the U.S. Congress passed and the president signed into law “The National Moment of Remembrance Act,” P.L. 106-579, creating the White House Commission on the National Moment of Remembrance.

The commission’s charter is to “encourage the people of the United States to give something back to their country, which provides them so much freedom and opportunity” by encouraging and coordinating commemorations in the United States of Memorial Day and the National Moment of Remembrance.

The National Moment of Remembrance encourages all Americans to pause wherever they are at 3 p.m. local time on Memorial Day for a minute of silence to remember and honor those who have died in service to the nation. As Moment of Remembrance founder Carmella LaSpada states, “It’s a way we can all help put the memorial back in Memorial Day.” Courtesy U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs. 

8 · S U N D AYS I G N A L

M AY 30, 2021

FROM THE CITY MANAGER

Honoring those who fought for our freedom

By Ken Striplin City Manager

“…And if words cannot repay the debt we owe these men, surely with our actions, we must strive to keep faith with them and with the vision that led them to battle and to final sacrifice.”

— Ronald Reagan

M

emorial Day is Monday, and throughout the Santa Clarita Valley, residents will be honoring the men and women who gave their lives for the freedoms we enjoy. Our community has always been deeply patriotic, and under the direction of the City Council, Santa Clarita proudly supports our troops.

This is evident in the serene setting of Veteran’s Historical Plaza in Old Town Newhall. The Plaza features bronze story-stations depicting each of our nation’s military conflicts, flags of each of the five branches of the military and a special brick walkway that contains hundreds of engraved bricks honoring individuals who served in the military.

Next time you visit, make sure to take a moment to view the Fallen Warriors Monument. This beautiful monument honors all known and unknown Santa

Clarita Valley service members that have lost their lives in conflicts since WWI. Another special way to honor our troops is the Hometown Heroes Banner Program. You will notice the brave faces of our actively serving men and women proudly displayed on street poles throughout the City. These banners mean so much to the families of our active-duty military. Being able to see the face of their loved ones brings comfort, pride and a feeling of closeness when that person might be serving far from home. I encourage you to make the drive on Newhall Ranch Road on the approach to the Fallen Warriors Memorial Bridge.

Here, you will see our City’s Gold Star Banners, which honor our local men and women who lost their lives while serving our country.

The annual Memorial Day celebration at Eternal Valley Memorial Park will be held on Monday. Last year the event was canceled due to the COVID-19 pandemic. This year, the celebration will kick off at 10:00 a.m., with a flyover of T-6 planes of the Condor Squadron. The event theme for 2021 will honor veterans of Desert Shield/Storm, also referred to as the Gulf War. Following the ceremony, the audience is invited to the Veterans Memorial Wall for the reading of the 900 names inscribed there. If you have not seen the wall, I encourage you to take the time to visit. Located at the top of the memorial park with sweeping views of the Valley, the massive wall has the flags and logos of each of the branches of the armed services along with the words, “Dedicated to the glory of God and to the men and women who helped preserve our free nation.”

Please join me this Memorial Day weekend in thanking and honoring those who lost their lives fighting for our country, our veterans who served honorably in the military, during wartime or peacetime, as well as currently serving personal and their families for their sacrifice and courage.

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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M AY 30, 2021

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 9

1 0 · S U N D AYS I G N A L

M AY 30, 2021

FINANCE

What to know before claiming Social Security benefits

H

ardworking adults spend years striving to achieve their professional goals.

Along the way, planning for retirement is a way to ensure all that hard work pays off when the time comes to call it a career.

In the United States, men and women nearing retirement age may be thinking about when they should begin collecting their Social Security retirement benefits.

Social Security is a social insurance program instituted by President Franklin Delano Roosevelt in 1935.

The program consists of retirement, disability and survivor benefits, and workers in the United States contribute to Social Security each week.

The decision about when to claim Social Security retirement benefits is one all those who have contributed to the program must eventually make.

In recognition of the difficulty of that decision, the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau offers the follow-

creased Social Security benefit will affect your bottom line in retirement.

ing tips to people wondering when they should begin collecting their Social Security benefits.

Continue working

Confirm your full retirement age

Full retirement age refers to the age at which people can begin collecting their full benefits. Depending on the year you were born, you can begin collecting your full benefit at age 66 or 67.

Claiming your benefit before you reach full retirement age will lead to a permanent decrease in your monthly benefits. Conversely, claiming after you reach full retirement age will lead to a permanent increase in your monthly benefits.

Since the stakes are so considerable, it’s vital for adults to confirm their full retirement age before they claim their benefits.

Delay claiming if you can

The CFPB notes that you can expect to get an additional 5 to 8% in monthly benefits for every year you wait to claim your Social Security

benefits after age 62, maxing out at age 70.

If you can afford to do so, wait to claim your full benefit until age 70, as doing so can translate to a benefit that’s 32% higher than it would have been had you claimed your benefit at age 62.

Budget for retirement

Short- and long-term budgeting for retirement can help you assess how much money you will need to cover your expenses when you stop working. This step can help you understand how much a reduced or in-

Remaining in the workforce fulltime or even part-time can have a considerable impact on the size of your Social Security benefit. The CFPB notes that continuing to work for one or two additional years can replace low- or no-income earnings from your earnings record, thereby increasing your benefit.

Long-term needs

Consider the long-term needs of your spouse. Surviving spouses receive the higher of the two spouses’ benefits. So it makes sense for the higher earning spouse to wait to collect his or her benefit until he or she reaches full retirement age.

The decision about when to collect your Social Security benefit is complex. Discussing your options with your spouse and financial advisor can help you make the most informed decision. (MC) 

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S U N D AYS I G N A L · 1 1

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

Winners: Reminiscing through 1971, the sport of kings

By Richard Roeper Signal Contributing Writer

‘Dream Horse’

‘1971: The Year that Music Changed Everything’

Bleecker Street and Topic Studios present a film directed by Euros Lyn and written by Neil McKay. Rated PG. Opens Thursday in theaters.

1/2 

1/2 (out of four) 

An eight-episode documentary series available Friday on Apple TV+.

A

ny list of the greatest protest and social commentary songs would have to include the following:

• “Imagine” by John Lennon • “Ohio” by Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young • “The Revolution Will Not Be Televised” by Gil Scott-Heron • “What’s Going On?” by Marvin Gaye • “Won’t Get Fooled Again” by the Who

All released in 1971 — the same year that yielded the albums “All Day Music” by War, “Madman Across the Water” by Elton John, “Roots” by Curtis Mayfield, “Surf ’s Up” by the Beach Boys, “Sticky Fingers” by the Rolling Stones, “There’s a Riot Goin’ On” by Sly and the Family Stone, “Tapestry” by Carole King, “Who’s Next” by the Who, “Blue” by Joni Mitchell and Led Zeppelin’s untitled fourth album — so yes, there’s more than enough music and history in the making to justify Apple TV+ devoting eight episodes of approximately 45 minutes each to the documentary series “1971: The Year That Music Changed Everything.” This is the definitive visual history of one of the most tumultuous years in American history — and arguably the greatest year ever for rock, pop and soul.

From the opening scenes of police officers dragging detainees through the streets, construction workers and anti-war protesters clashing in New York City and the burning of the ROTC building on the campus of Kent State, the filmmaking team (whose credits include “Amy” and “Exit Through the Gift Shop”) make it clear “1971” is going to be as much about the tenor of the times as the music that reflected and, in some cases, influenced young America.

“There was a huge divide in America, because of Vietnam,” says Chrissie Hynde of the Pretenders, who

PHOTO COURTESY APPLE

was a student at Kent State University at the time of the still-shocking, almost incomprehensible murders of four students and the wounding of nine others at the hands of National Guardsmen who fired into the unarmed crowds in the spring of 1970.

“Shocked? Yeah!” says Hynde. “These kids were lying on the ground, bleeding to death.”

Cue the spine-chilling opening notes and lyrics of “Ohio,” the brilliant anthem by Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young: “Tin soldiers and Nixon’s coming/We’re finally on our own/ This summer I hear the drumming/ Four dead in Ohio …”

We often see the lyrics of songs superimposed onto still photos and archival footage of the time, e.g., when we hear how Marvin Gaye was inspired to write “What’s Going On?” by his brother being sent to Vietnam, we see footage of caskets arriving in America as families weep, and see the lyrics: “Mother, mother/There’s too many of you crying/Brother, brother, brother/There’s far too many of you dying.” It’s powerful, merging the music with the movements.

“1971” is also filled with recordings of comments from the prominent artists of the day, and incredible behind-the-scenes footage of John Lennon working out the arrangement for “Imagine,” George Harrison and Bob Dylan rehearsing “If Not For You” prior to the Concert for Bangladesh, as well as deep dives into the careers of Sly & the Family Stone and the Who, among many others — and recordings of Richard Nixon plotting with Henry Kissinger in the White House, a reminder of the pure evil of Charles Manson (the Manson trial was in 1971) and Vietnam, always Vietnam. In 1971, we often heard the best of America (and Great Britain) on the radio and saw the worst of it in the pro-war politics of the time.

Y

ou won’t see any breathtaking stretch runs in “Dream Horse,” nor will you encounter any heartbreaking moments when a beautiful creature is injured on the track and might have to be put down.

There are no colorful townsfolk, no sequences where everyone gathers around the telly to cheer for the local favorite in the big race, no quietly moving moments between a long-married couple who still love one another, no “Rocky”-like thrills of the underdog pulling off the inconceivable upset.

I’m KIDDING. Of course, we know from the get-go we’ll be getting all of the aforementioned comfort-viewing moments, and we know our hearts will be warmed by this fictionalized version of an amazing true-life tale of a Welsh bartender with zero experience in the Sport of Kings who breeds a racehorse named Dream Alliance that defies the odds and goes on to win the Welsh Grand National. This story was told in the 2015 Sundance Film Festival Audience Award-winning documentary “Dark Horse,” and now it’s the basis for one of the most entertaining and lovable films of 2021 — and one of the best horse racing movies since “Seabiscuit.”

This is one of those quirky, funny, endearing, touching and smile-inducing Brit drama/comedies. We can see every plot point rounding the turn long before the finish line, but that’s OK, because we’re having a jolly grand time every step of the way.

Toni Collette is genetically incapable of delivering an uninteresting performance, and she’s playing one of the most likable and empathetic characters in her career in one Jan Vokes, who has been knocked around by life ever since she was a girl but still has her hopes and dreams, even though her daily existence is practically soul-crushing. Living in a gray, drab, financially depressed former mining town in Wales, Jan spends long days

working as a cashier at the local supermarket and long nights tending bar at the pub — and then comes home to her benign but mostly indifferent husband Brian (Owen Teale), who suffers from arthritis and never seems to leave his comfy seat in front of the TV set.

Jan and Brian both love animals and once raised prize-winning livestock, but these days are gone.

Until they buy a horse. Well, it’s Jan who buys a broodmare on a whim, with the hopes she’ll give birth to a race-worthy horse — and sure enough, along comes a feisty thoroughbred with some long-shot potential. Jan and Brian can’t afford to care for and train the horse on their own, so they recruit a bunch of local investors, including Howard (Damian Lewis), who actually has some experience in the racing game but nearly lost everything to his gambling habit; Maureen (Sian Phillips), a lonely old widow, and Kerby (Karl Johnson), the obligatory town drunk who’s always good for a laugh.

It’s their alliance that inspires the name for the horse: Dream Alliance.

Director Euros Lyn finds beauty in the South Wales locales and the glorious bright greens and brown earth tones of the racetracks, and the soundtrack hums with tunes from mostly Welsh-based performers, including the one and only Tom Jones.

We’re used to seeing Damian Lewis (who has Welsh roots) playing largerthan-life characters, but he slips comfortably into the role of a dreamer who has had more failures than triumphs in his life and nearly lost his marriage chasing glory. (Joanna Page is wonderful as his wife.) At first Lewis’ Howard comes across as a braggart and a boor, but he softens and becomes someone to root for at the end of the day.

“Dream Horse” also takes time to flesh out the love story between Jan and Brian — and it IS a love story, even after all these years. There are times when it seems as if Brian is hardly paying attention to Jan, but he would be so lost without her. Corny as it may sound, this is a true Dream Alliance between cast, filmmaker and story.  Copyright 2020 Chicago Sun-Times

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M AY 30, 2021

N E W S F E AT U R E

On the hunt for hummus in the Santa Clarita Valley

By Kev Kurdoghlian Signal Staff Writer

T

he origin story of hummus, like much that was shared with us from the ancient world, is not 100% clear.

The Western word we use loosely translates to the Arabic term for “chickpea,” a main ingredient, and the first recorded mentions come from a 13th century cookbook, according to the Library of Arabic Literature.

As recently as 2008, the “Hummus Wars” were sparked after Lebanon accused Israel of appropriating the dish Lebanon claimed was created there, according to a story on BBC.com, which noted the former nation even unsuccessfully appealed its case to the European Union.

However, what’s clear now is that hummus is a staple of the Mediterranean diet, and one that’s enthusiastically enjoyed throughout the world.

Made fresh locally

Dozens of varieties of this Middle Eastern dish are available at supermarkets across the country, and in the Santa Clarita Valley, fresh hummus is served at several restaurants.

One of them is Man’ousheé Mediterranean Bakery and Café in Canyon County. Maral Sabounjian owns and operates the Lebanese café, which opened in 2008.

Her entire menu is vegan and vegetarian, including hummus.

“We soak the chickpeas beans overnight. Drain and rinse and cook them in a pressure cooker until they are beyond tender,” Sabounjian said.

That’s followed by puréeing the cooked chickpeas in a commercial grade food processor.

“The chickpea purée is then blended with the highest quality Lebanese tahini, ice cold filtered water, fresh garlic and spices. That’s it,” she said.

Tahini is a sesame seed purée and Sabounjian said “getting your hands on the best quality tahini you can find is one of the secrets of great hummus. And don’t be shy with it.”

The hummus at Man’ousheé is made fresh from scratch every day.

And hummus is something of a tradition for Sabounjian’s family.

“My Palestinian-Armenian father taught me how to make hummus,”

Man’oushee Mediterranean Bakery and Cafe Chef Maral adds pressure-cooked chickpeas to a food processor as she prepares a batch of hummus. PHOTOS BY BOBBY BLOCK / THE SIGNAL

she said. “He would smash the chickpeas with his hands, mix everything together by hand.”

That tradition of handmade hummus extends to the way the hummus is presented too. Sabounjian said her father never served hummus unadorned and neither does she.

“It was always swirled on a plate or bowl with the backside of a spoon, drizzled with Lebanese extra virgin olive oil, speckled with spices,” she said. “He taught me how to prepare hummus, and present it that way. So that’s how we serve ours, even the tiny two-ounce containers.”

Where to enjoy

Hummus is often enjoyed with pita bread and served with many menu items and separately at Man’ousheé.

“It’s that labor of love, attention to detail, family recipe and decades of experience that makes our hummus special,” Sabounjian said.

That family recipe, however, is proprietary – as with the recipes for many great dishes.

Hummus options are many in the Santa Clarita Valley and different restaurants may prepare and serve their hummus differently.

At Newhall Refinery on Main Street in Newhall, the hummus is a baba ganoush, or roasted eggplants, with seasonal vegetables and crispy naan bread.

Gyromania serves hummus as a topping for gyro plates and wraps at its two Santa Clarita locations. Tahini, an ingredient in hummus, is also an available topping.

Persia Catering, which operated as Persia Lounge in Newhall until 2019, offers their hummus with a variety of Middle Eastern favorites like kebab.

Their hummus includes chickpeas, tahini, garlic and olive oil, as well as lemon.

Travel Santa Clarita’s hummus trail!

Here are the places to visit to get hummus in the Santa Clarita Valley: • Man’ousheé Mediterranean Bakery and Café is located at 27131 Sierra Highway, Canyon Country, CA 91351. They can be reached by phone at (661) 251-6666 or online at manoushee.net.

• Newhall Refinery is located at 24254 Main Street, Santa Clarita.

They can be reached by phone at (661) 388-4477 or online at newhallrefinery.com.

• Gyromania has two locations in Santa Clarita Valley. They are at 20655 Soledad Canyon Road, Santa Clarita, CA 91351 and 25884 The Old Road, Stevenson Ranch.

They can be contacted online at gyromania.com.

• Flame and Skewers, originally from Bakersfield, has one loca-

tion in Santa Clarita at 25870 McBean Parkway. They are online at flameandskewers.com and can be reached by phone at (661) 7997535.

• Kebab Grill is located 18517 Soledad Canyon Road, Santa Clarita.

They can be reached online via their Facebook page, facebook. com/KebabGrillSCV or by phone at (661) 252-6700.

• Kebab House is located in the Westfield Valencia Town Center.

They can be reached online via Facebook at facebook.com/kebab housevalencia or by phone at (661) 799-5844.

• Oliver Terrace Bar and Grill is located 28261 Newhall Ranch Road, Santa Clarita. They can be reached by phone at (661) 257-7860 or online at oliveterracebarandgrill.com, • Sam’s Flaming Grill has three locations in Valencia and one in Canyon Country within the Santa Clarita Valley. For more their locations and contact information, visit samsflaminggrill.net/locations.

• Zankou Chicken in Valencia is located at 24463 Magic Mountain Parkway, Santa Clarita. They can be reached by phone at (661) 705-7265 or online at zankouchicken.com/ valencia. 

M AY 30, 2021

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 1 3

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

Fast times, fun nights at The Canyon Santa Clarita

F

ast Times shows are guaranteed to give concert-goers the full 80s Concert Experience: radical costumes, choreographed moves, funny stage antics, and a playlist that spans the unforgettable decade.

Johnny Ventura is Fast Times’

leader and singer. He is also an entrepreneur, and the co-owner of local business Chronic Tacos Valencia.

Both the band and the business were severely impacted by the Covid-19 pandemic. However, Ventura made good use of his down time, by using his extensive

audio, electronic and programming knowledge, acquired from decades at Harman and Samsung, to create an automated light show — complete with LED screens, lasers, fogs, and LED signs.

The new and improved version of the Fast Times 80s Concert Experience is sure to impress. Fast

Times can be seen every Friday night at The Canyon Santa Clarita.

Find the Canyon Santa Clarita on the ground floor of the Westfield Valencia Town Center. For more info, visit WheremusicmeetstheSoul. com. 

1 4 · S U N D AYS I G N A L

M AY 30, 2021

HOME

Hire smart for your home remodeling projects

W

hen you decide to make the investment in a home improvement project, you’re likely entrusting a professional contractor to bring your vision to life on time and on budget.

Remodeling contractors are diverse, so it’s important to take your time, ask lots of questions and do your research before selecting the right one for the job. Keep in mind these considerations from the experts at the National Association of the Remodeling Industry:

Choose local

A local home improvement contractor with an established business in your area is likely connected to your community and has a vested interest in doing a job well.

Referrals are an important source of business for local companies, so local remodelers are typically compelled to perform quality work that satisfies their customers in order for

may have earned that are pertinent to the project.

licensing agencies to ensure the contractor meets all requirements.

Understand staffing

Confirm insurance

Be sure you’re clear about who will be in your home completing the work, whether it’s the person you meet to discuss a bid or an assigned team. Ask who the project supervisor will be, and if any work is to be subcontracted.

Check references

their businesses to survive.

Discuss experience

While a skilled remodeler may be willing to take on something new, chances are you’ll be best served by working with someone who has experience with your specific project. A learning curve can be expensive, and the results aren’t always as you hoped.

Talk about similar projects the contractor has completed in the past and how that work compares to what you’re planning.

Also be sure to ask what, if any, outside certifications a contractor

A reputable contractor should be able to produce a list of past customers who can attest to the remodeler’s workmanship and service.

You can contact the government Consumer Affairs Office and the Better Business Bureau to check for complaints on record for the contractor.

Also ask if the remodeler is a member of any trade groups or associations.

Verify licensing

Many states, but not all, require contractors to be licensed, bonded or both. Contact your state or local

Ask to see a copy of the remodeling contractor’s certification of insurance or the name of his or her insurance agency to verify coverage. Most states require a contractor to carry worker’s compensation, property damage and personal liability insurance. Make sure the contractor’s insurance coverage meets all the minimum requirements.

Compare bids

There are a number of different factors that go into pricing a remodeling project. Be sure that every estimate reflects the same scope of work. If the estimates don’t fully spell out what work is going to be done, go back to the contractor for clarification in writing.

Find more tips for selecting a contractor at remodelingdoneright.com.

(Family Features) 

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M AY 30, 2021

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 1 5

SENIORLIVING

What seniors should know about herbal medicines

YOUR HEALTH IS A LIFELONG JOURNEY.

IT’S PERSONAL. IT’S UNIQUE. IT’S YOURS.

A

lifelong commitment to healthy living can improve life expectancy and quality of life while reducing a person’s risk for various conditions and diseases, including cancer and heart disease.

Healthy lifestyle choices like eating a nutritious diet and exercising regularly can greatly reduce a person’s risk for various ailments, but such choices don’t eliminate that risk entirely.

As a result, even health-conscious men and women may need to rely on medication to stay healthy. That’s especially true for seniors since age is a risk factor for various conditions.

A 2014 analysis that appeared in the Archives of Gerontology and Geriatrics examined nearly 1,300 published articles that focused on the use of herbal supplements by elderly patients.

Though only 16 of those articles met the researchers’ criteria, the analysis concluded that herbal supplement usage is common among elderly patients, as was a lack of dialogue about such supplements between medical professionals and seniors.

A concerted effort to initiate such dialogue on the part of both patients and health care providers can help shed light on herbal medicines so people taking them, including seniors, can learn more about what they’re putting into their bodies.

What are herbal medicines?

The National Health Service of the United Kingdom, a widely respected and publicly funded health care system, describes herbal medicines as those with active ingredients made from plant parts like leaves, roots or flowers.

Since herbal medicines are made from plant parts, many people as-

sume they’re safe to take without consulting a physician. However, the NHS urges people to treat herbal medicines with the same care and respect as they would more conventional medicines.

Herbal medicines can affect the body in various ways. A frank discussion with a physician can shed light on the potential side effects of herbal medicines and whether or not they’re safe.

Why be concerned about herbal medicines?

The NHS notes that seniors taking other medications may experience problems if they begin taking herbal medicines as well. The National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health, which is part of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, notes that more well-designed studies are necessary to fully evaluate interactions between herbal medicines and prescription drugs.

However, the NCCIH notes that some evidence points to some harmful effects of mixing the two. For example, the NCCIH reports that prolonged exposure to concentrated garlic extracts may reduce the efficacy of some drugs.

The potential for these types of interactions should be enough to compel seniors to think twice before taking herbal medicines without first consulting their physicians. In addition, the NHS has developed a list of various types of people for whom herbal medicines may not be suitable, and that list includes the elderly.

Seniors considering herbal medicines should discuss the pros and cons of such products with their physicians prior to taking anything.

(MC) 

We’re celebrating Women’s Health Month & Better Hearing Month, so if you haven’t done anything to take care of yourself this month, then take a moment to stop, breathe and be.

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• Hearing loss is the third most common public health issue in the US.

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1 6 · S U N D AYS I G N A L

M AY 30, 2021

H E A LT H

Tips to promote health during allergy season

A

s seasons change, there’s often a great deal of shuffling and movement, including common allergy triggers like trees, pollen, mold spores, dust and dander along with pesky sinus pressure.

Combined with changes in barometric pressure and weather patterns bouncing up and down, spring can be one big pain — literally.

“This is the time of year when most of us are excited to see the change of seasons, but millions of allergy and sinus sufferers welcome spring with trepidation,” Dr. Ian Smith, M.D., said.

“Common triggers such as trees, pollen, mold spores, dust and dander can wreak havoc for many. Having a trusted multi-symptom reliever of upper respiratory allergies like Mucinex Sinus-Max is absolutely key in making the season more enjoyable for all suffering from sinus and congestion issues.

With a reliable multi-symptom

product stashed in your medicine cabinet, and the combination of simple modifications like being mindful of your indoor climate, eating more fruits and veggies, and staying hydrated, can help limit sinus discomfort this season.”

Take steps now to ease the impact of sinus and allergy problems and focus on your overall wellness for a smooth transition with these tips:

opening windows and doors, and instead rely on air conditioning on warmer days. Also be sure to change filters regularly and use an air purifier for added protection.

Keep fluids flowing

Control your triggers

Knowing what flares your allergic reactions can help prevent discomfort. For many people, monitoring pollen counts and limiting time outdoors on high-pollen days can help reduce reactions. You might also avoid hanging laundry outside, as pollen can stick to clothes and sheets as they dry, and ask for help with yardwork to limit your exposure.

Find some pressure release

When nasal congestion or sinus pressure build, it can feel like a ton of bricks have landed on your head.

However, you can find relief with products designed to help clear up your stuffy nose, relieve headaches and thin and loosen excess mucus.

Often, if you’re experiencing sinus problems, you’re dealing with multiple symptoms. An over-the-counter medicine like Mucinex Sinus-Max can break up your sinus symptoms with just one dose or your money back.

Manage your indoor climate

Even when you start spending more time outdoors, it’s important to keep close tabs on the quality of the air inside your home. If you’re prone to allergy flare-ups or sinus infections, manage the humidity level by using a humidifier or dehumidifier. If outdoor allergens are a concern, avoid

V

arious ingredients in many popular sunscreen can enter the bloodstream after just one day of use, according to a recent study published in the medical journal JAMA. The study conducted by the Center for Drug Evaluation and Research examined 24 healthy volunteers who were randomly assigned to a spray or lotion sunscreen that contained avobenzone, oxybenzone or octocrylene, or a cream sunscreen that contained the chemical ecamsule.

Volunteers applied their sunscreen to 75% of their bodies each day for four days. By the end of the first day, five of the six participants who applied the ecamsule cream had levels of ecamsule in their blood that are considered significant.

More time outdoors in warmer weather can quickly lead to dehydration, especially if you’re working up a sweat. Drink plenty of water to stay well hydrated and keep your body operating in top shape. Staying hydrated can also help keep mucus moving, allowing you to ease through allergy or sinus problems.

Update your medicine cabinet

A seasonal change is a good time to take stock of your medical supplies and medications to ensure you have what you need for the months ahead. Discard any expired prescriptions or over the counter medicines and be sure restock common spring and summer essentials like bug bite ointments, sunburn spray and multi-symptom products like Mucinex Sinus-Max to help temporarily relieve sinus and congestion symptoms in one dose. Also be sure to replenish your first aid kit with plenty of bandages and wound care supplies.

For more information, visit Mucinex.com. (Family Features) 

Participants who applied the other sunscreen, especially those who used products that contained oxybenzone, also showed significant levels of the chemical in their bloodstreams by the end of the first day. These findings are significant, as the chemical oxybenzone has been shown to be a common cause of contact allergies.

Oxybenzone is also being studied for its potential connection to other conditions, including lower testosterone levels in adolescent boys and shorter pregnancies and disrupted birth weights in babies.

However, scientists who responded to the study warned that it should not prevent people from applying sunscreen, as the Skin Cancer Foundation notes that more Americans are diagnosed with skin cancer each year than all other cancers combined. (MC) 

M AY 30, 2021

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 1 7

SCV gardening tips for the month of June

GARDENING

By Jane Gates Signal Staff Writer

J

une is the month to prepare your landscape for a long, hot summer. Like any project, the more efficient you are with preparation, the more successful the project will be. Here are some things you can do to make your garden successful this year — starting in June.

Cleanup

Start with a good garden clean up.

Remove all left over brown material, cutting back to healthy plant material and raking out litter that could harbor insect pests or ignite if a cinder from a local wildfire should pass your way. Consider mulching empty areas with a light colored decomposed granite, compost, wood chips or gravel. Avoid dark colors when possible since they absorb heat and can become foot-scorchingly hot!

No non-living material is perfect; stone retains heat, compost is most efficient when moistened with our precious and expensive water, and wood chips are flammable. But you might find it artistic and practical to use different materials in different areas.

Other spaces may do well planted with attractive low water flowers or shrubs.

Whatever you decide, using mulch is a good way to hold moisture in the soil and cool plant roots. It can be an attractive addition and a water-saving device for creating an artistic statement as well as making a landscape safer, more efficient, and easier to maintain when varied materials are thoughtfully designed into the garden.

Irrigation

Put together soaker hoses and drip systems to keep your garden plants strong and healthy while reducing your water bills.

Most gardens will benefit from more than one type of irrigation system. Trees will like slow, deep watering, lawns need broad sprinklers, drought-tolerant gardens will do well with drip irrigation, and so on. A well-designed garden will make efficient use of space and materials. Good irrigation plans will build in the best ways to apply water to assure minimal waste and expense while delivering your plants the water they need.

Compost

Got compost? Dig it into the soil now. Our lean soil will appreciate any additional organic matter and their much-needed nutrients.

If you don’t have a compost heap this is a great time to start one as you clean up the blown leaves and winter die-off from the garden. Use compost over the surface of flower and vegetable beds alike. If you don’t have compost of your own, buy it in bags or try another mulch material like bark chips that will slowly break down but still offer up much-needed organic matter.

A top dressing of mulch will help keep moisture in the soil as we head into the long dry season. It will also insulate underground roots from baking sun.

Move from seeding and planting to maintaining and supporting. Plant seeds and starter plants of summer

vegetables. Seeds of bush beans, carrots, radishes and beets can be planted every few weeks for quick, successive crops. Otherwise, keep all your other vegetables, fruits and flowers inspected for insect invasions, properly pruned and well-watered and fed.

Make sure your soil has been turned and organic amendments are dug in.

Don’t let newly planted additions or transplants dry out and give them some temporary shade for a day or two if hot sun is forecast.

Plant support

Keep plants looking neat by supporting them with trellises, pruning, and tying. Extend flowering by deadheading — snipping off spent flowers to redirect energy from forming seeds to creating more blooms. And remove weeds as they sprout before the roots go deep and the job becomes harder.

Keep lawns cut and properly irrigated. If you don’t have a drought-tolerant, well established lawn area, it probably will not fare well in the summer without excessive watering and time consuming fussing. June is still a good time to replace your grass with a more water efficient variety or take out lawn areas that are not vital and replant them with an attractive water-wise garden. The city is once again offering rebates for lawn removal, so consider many of the many alternatives you could try that would look great, reduce water bills and maintenance as well as add more useful and productive space to your

outdoor space.

Explore possibilities

Look for ideas in books, online, in magazines, visit local public gardens or call a local garden designer for customized, creative garden solutions to fit into your lifestyle.

Consider making the best of your garden space. Small spaces can benefit from container gardens and larger spaces can be beautiful and easily maintained with native gardens. For larger yards consider cooling water features and shade covers to make for a more comfortable outdoor summer. And don’t forget to add a cools spot for the kids and pets! Do it in June before July heat makes you hide indoors.

For more information about gardening in the Santa Clarita Valley, visit Jane Gates on YouTube at https://you tube.com/user/Janieg8s. 

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Take another look at irrigation. Set irrigation systems for the most efficient watering. Make sure water is penetrating the soil and not washing away. Regularly check for leaks and breaks.

Adjust your controllers to deal with the longer, warmer and drier days.

Set watering systems to irrigate early in the morning and look into an automatically adjusting system that will save you time and energy.

Mulch can be stone, tumbled glass, different types of wood chips, decomposed granite, compost, pavers, flagstone and much more!

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M AY 30, 2021

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Dining & Entertainment

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M AY 30, 2021

PETS

How to help manage pet separation anxiety

F

or more than a year, working from home and keeping social circles small due to COVID-19 has meant people have been able to spend more time with their pets. However, as more Americans are vaccinated and restrictions loosen across the country, it’s likely many are spending less time at home with their pets.

As a result, pet parents should be prepared to spot the signs of separation anxiety and help their pets manage.

When left at home alone, pets can exhibit behaviors that could indicate they’re experiencing separation anxiety. It’s not a new problem, but it can become more pronounced as pet parents begin to spend less time at home, whether they’re returning to work full-time or just leaving the house more often.

It may be especially challenging for pets that found their forever homes during the pandemic, as

being alone may be a stark contrast to what they’ve become accustomed to. In these cases, pets may struggle to learn how to cope with being by themselves.

To help pet parents identify separation anxiety in their pets and embrace alone time, consider these tips from Dr. Crista Coppola, PetSmart’s consulting animal behaviorist and separation anxiety expert.

Identify separation anxiety

Changes in behavior are some of the most common indicators of separation anxiety. These behaviors are coping mechanisms and can include excessive barking or whining, destruction near exit points or windows, having accidents around the house, hyper salivating, pacing, decreased appetite and depression.

To better understand what your pet is experiencing, consider setting up a video camera when you leave to see how he or she behaves when you’re not there.

Prepare your pet

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Unpredictability has been shown to add stress for many animals, including dogs, Coppola said. Routines, however, can help many pets cope with stressful situations.

Because a vacation or long weekend getaway involves a change in your pet’s routine, these seemingly small changes can make him or her susceptible to separation anxiety.

If you know change is coming, slowly introduce your pet to the idea of being alone beforehand to help your four-legged friend prepare.

Start by taking short trips outside your home without your pet — even if just for a few minutes — and consider leaving treats or toys to help make the alone time more enjoyable.

When you are ready to leave the house, set up a cozy, inviting space for your pet, where he or she can’t destroy items or get hurt trying to escape.

Consider a non-carpeted area in case of accidents or install a doggie door to allow for going outside

when necessary. Prior to any period of alone time, mentally and physically engaging your pet by going for a walk or run, or working on quick trick training, can make it more likely he or she spends at least some of the time you’re gone resting.

While you’re gone, Coppola recommends providing your pets with enrichment activities such as puzzles, chews and calming aids like the Adaptil Calm On-the-Go Dog Collar.

Calming vests like the veterinarian-recommended Thundershirt can also help pets transition.

Coping with anxiety

If your pet is excessively barking or exhibiting destructive behaviors, never punish him or her and avoid expressing disappointment or frustration, Coppola said. It is understandable to feel this way, but it can upset your pet further and add to the stress he or she may already be feeling. Instead, spend time having fun together when you are home and consider an option like PetSmart’s Doggie Day Camp, which can help ease the transition by gradually introducing your pet to the amount of time left alone.

There are full- or half-day sessions — including themed playdates — your furry friend will receive expert care, exercise, mentally stimulating playtime and socialization with other pups.

Learn more and find additional solutions to help deal with separation anxiety at petsmart.com/newnormal.

(Family Features) 

M AY 30, 2021

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 2 1

K I D S & FA M I LY

Donna’s Day: Creative Family Fun

Tin-can Stacked Caprese salad

By Donna Erickson Signal Contributing Writer

W

hen it’s time to prep a dinner meal this week, get your kids stacking the green, white and red layers of fresh basil, mozzarella and tomato. If they say their culinary creation reminds them of winter’s Christmas colors, guide them to a photo of the tricolor green, white and red Italian flag.

This fun-to-make version using a surprise ingredient, couscous, is a tasty spring and summertime twist on Italy’s traditional caprese salad.

I’ve always believed in using the right tools for the right job. In this recipe, it’s four recycled aluminum cans. Once you’ve removed labels and both ends of four 7-8 ounce clean cans (I used 7-ounce diced green chilies cans and made sure there were no sharp edges), gather the following

ingredients to create a fancy-looking presentation.

STACKED CAPRESE SALAD WITH COUSCOUS

4 aluminum 7-8 ounce cans with both ends removed

Nonstick cooking spray or olive oil 2 medium, ripe tomatoes, 1/4-inch-thick slices 1 cup cooked couscous mixed with 2 tablespoons Italian dressing or prepared pesto 8 slices fresh mozzarella cheese

Fresh basil leaves

Parsley for garnish (optional)

Balsamic vinegar 1. Spray with nonstick spray or lightly wipe oil in the interior of the four cans. Set each can on end on a salad plate.

2. Trim the tomato and cheese slices to fit the interior of a can, then stack the individual portions in layers inside the can as follows:

a tomato slice, 2 tablespoons of couscous mixture and a cheese slice. Repeat.

serve, garnish with a fresh basil leaf or sprig of parsley. Drizzle balsamic vinegar to taste.

3. Cover with plastic wrap and press down on the stack gently with a jar or can slightly smaller than the opening of the can.

Donna Erickson’s award-winning series “Donna’s Day” is airing on public television nationwide. To find more of her creative family recipes and activities, visit www.donnasday.com and link to the Donna’s Day Facebook fan page.

Her latest book is “Donna Erickson’s Fabulous Funstuff for Families.”  © 2020 Donna Erickson Distributed by King Features Synd.

4. Remove wrap and slowly lift the can to reveal the layered salad. To

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SOLUTIONS

PUZZLES

M AY 30, 2021

CROSSWORD TIME

MAY 30, 2021

Opinion

S U N D AY S I G N A L · 2 3

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

READERLETTERS

Dispelling the Rumors Your reader, Thomas Oatway of Valencia, made statements in your letters to the editor this morning (May 13) that once again caught my attention.

People who speak emotionally as opposed to rationally meet the qualifications for closer scrutiny as it is usually easier to prove them wrong and dispel their “rumors.”

Mr. Oatway’s statements about voting restrictions indicate that he cannot see that political swords are usually double-edged and usually cut in both directions. That is to say that any law that restricts or limits action for one usually has the effect of restricting or limiting action for a great many, and on both sides of the aisle.

Take Georgia’s new voting law, for example, the target of Mr. Oatway’s letter, I would imagine. Just what does that voting law do? Let’s take a good look and see how it affects Democrats, but not Republicans. The following is taken verbatim from a New York Times analysis of Georgia’s voting law, citing its 16 worst provisions — the comments are my own: • Voters will have less time to request absentee ballots — this affects both sides.

• There are strict new ID requirements for absentee ballots — this affects both sides.

• It’s now illegal for election officials to mail out absentee ballots to all voters — this affects both sides.

• Drop boxes still exist, but barely — this is not quantified, but it still affects both sides.

• Mobile voting centers are essentially banned — the mere wording is subjective, but it still affects both sides.

• Early voting is expanded in a lot of small counties, but probably not in more populous ones — more subjectivity • Offering food or water to voters waiting in line now risks misdemeanor charges — this affects both sides.

• If you go to the wrong polling place, it will be (even) harder to vote — this affects both sides.

• If election problems arise, a com-

mon occurrence, it is now more difficult to extend voting hours — this affects both sides.

• With a mix of changes to vote-counting, high-turnout elections will probably mean a long wait for results — this affects both sides.

• Election officials can no longer accept third-party funding (a measure that nods to right-wing conspiracy theories) — I don’t even know what this means, and yet it still affects both sides.

• With an eye toward voter fraud, the state attorney general will manage an election hotline — not only is this speculation and conjecture, it still affects both sides.

• The Republican-controlled legislature has more control over the State Election Board — until the legislature flips, so it has the potential to affect both sides.

• The secretary of state is removed as a voting member of the State Election Board — how does this affect anyone?

• The GOP-led legislature is empowered to suspend county election officials — more double-edged swords.

• Runoff elections will happen faster — and could become harder to manage — this statement is an opinion, and it still affects both sides.

Well, there you have it, from the seat of liberal thought itself, the New York Times. What this tells me is that the majority of Democrats are so lost, so incompetent, so physically and mentally challenged, as compared to Republicans, that they need someone to not only hold their hands, but also to literally pick them up and carry them out to vote. I don’t believe that’s really the case, but from the complaints I’m hearing you would think it was. Analyses such as these actually do more disservice to Democrats by making them out to be indigents.

Arthur Saginian Santa Clarita Submit a Letter to the Editor

Include name, address & phone; Anonymous letters aren’t printed; email: letters@ signalscv.com. Mail to: Letters, The Signal, 26330 Diamond Place, Ste. 100, Santa Clarita, CA 91350.

In Memoriam, 2021

By David Hegg

W

hile I was not yet living when it was fought, World War II has shaped so much of the world in which I have lived. It framed the whole idea of valor and courage and sacrificial service. And it wasn’t only those who served in uniform who experienced the war, and felt that they played a vital part in bringing about a good and swift conclusion to it. In truth, we were a nation at war. Soldier and civilian were on the same team, working for a common goal, with mutual respect and honor.

But something dramatic happened in America, and it was intertwined with the tragedy that was Vietnam.

A radical breach occurred between soldiers and civilians. Those who served in uniform fought the war, while those whose lives went on unchanged sat back and critiqued them.

Perhaps it was the drastic change in how war was perpetrated, or maybe it was the lack of a clear strategy of victory, or maybe it was a hundred other reasons, but in the end it became clear. We were not a nation at war, but rather a nation with some who had the unfortunate responsibility to be at war.

That distance remains today, between those who step into harm’s way and those who are protected by their service. Today, many men and women are at war, wearing American uniforms, enduring painful living situations while dodging bullets, bombs and improvised explosive devices.

And, while we thank them for their service when they come home and we see them in the market, we no longer really feel what they feel when they are at war.

We sit and watch news footage of a few soldiers here and there, but it seems more like a video game than reality. We are becoming a nation

that watches war, but doesn’t experience it.

And while being preserved from the terrors of modern warfare may have many benefits, there is one tragic side effect. The truth is that, while we “thank them for their service,” we are in danger of losing any sense of what that service actually entailed.

This Memorial Day we remember those who died while fighting the wars that threatened our country and our way of life. We honor those who gave what Abraham Lincoln described as the “last full measure of devotion.” And it is right and good that a day is set aside to do so.

But even more important would be a concerted effort on our part to once again become a nation that is at war, whenever the hell of war is pressed upon us. Let’s not send our men and women into combat and think that we need not send our hearts and minds, our thoughts and prayers with them. Let us not continue to be a nation of spectators, or worse, a nation that ignores the reality that wars are fought by those who are our fellow citizens, who take part of us with them every time they put on the uniform.

If Memorial Day is a time to remember, let it also be a day to reinvigorate the whole idea of memory in us all. For anything to be remembered, it first must be experienced.

To rightfully remember those who die in service to our country in the future we must be a nation that is one with them today. May this Memorial Day weekend find us intent on not only thanking them for their service, but also standing with them, and praying for them, in the midst of the battle.

Local resident David Hegg is senior pastor of Grace Baptist Church. “Ethically Speaking” appears Sundays. 