Why We Celebrate the Fourth of July
Few summertime holidays elicit as much excitement as the Fourth of July, also known as Independence Day in the United States. Each year, family, friends and revelers anticipate the arrival of the holiday so they can host barbecues, enjoy the sun, listen to their favorite summertime tunes, and commemorate the freedoms afforded by the monumental events that led to the holiday’s establishment.
Independence Day became a federal holiday in 1941, but July 4th has stood as the birth of American independence for much longer. July 4th marks a pivotal moment in the American Revolution.
According to PBS, the colonies were forced to pay taxes to England’s King George III despite having no representation in the British Parliament. “Taxation without representation” became a battle cry and was one of several grievances colonists had with Great Britain.
Conflict between the colonies had been going
on for at least a year before the colonies convened a Continental Congress in Philadelphia in June of 1776, says Military.com.
On July 2, 1776, the Continental Congress voted in favor of independence from England. Two days later, on July 4, 1776, delegates from the 13 colonies adopted the Declaration of Independence.
The Declaration of Independence is an historic document drafted by Thomas Jefferson. Jefferson was considered the strongest and most eloquent writer of the declaration writing committee charged with putting the colonies’ sentiments into words.
Richard Henry Lee of Virginia was one of the first people to present a resolution for American independence, and his commentary was the impetus for the formal Declaration of Independence. A total of 86 changes were made to Jefferson’s original draft until the final version was adopted.
The signing of the document helped to solidify independence, and eventually lead to the formation of the United States of America.
A total of 56 delegates signed the document. Although John Hancock’s signature is the largest, it did not hold more weight than the other signatures. Rather, rumor has it, Hancock signed it so large so that the “fat, old King could read it without his spectacles.” However, the National Archives says it was also customary that, since Hancock was the president of the Continental Congress, he be the first person to sign the document centered below the text.
The Pennsylvania Evening Post was the first newspaper to print the Declaration of Independence on July 6, 1776. The first public readings of the Declaration were held in Philadelphia’s Independence Square on July 8, 1776. (MC)
Why is Independence Day celebrated on July 4th?
The Continental Congress declared its independence from Great Britain on July 2, 1776. If that date raises an eyebrow, it should. Independence Day in the United States has long been celebrated on July 4th, which would seem to be two days late. But upon closer examination, it seems Americans are not really celebrating their independence two days later than they should be.
According to the National Constitution Center, the Continental Congress approved a resolution declaring its independence from Great Britain
on July 2. However, a document still needed to be drafted to explain the decision to the general public.
Such a document was already in the works, but it took two days for the men of Congress to agree on a final version. The resulting document, known as the Declaration of Independence, was sent to John Dunlap, an Irish printer who served under George Washington during the American Revolutionary War, who subsequently printed roughly 200 broadsides.
Still, the Declaration of Independence was not read to the public until July 8, 1776, when Colonel John Nix-
on did so in Philadelphia on what is now known as Independence Square. It was nearly a month later, on August 2, 1776, when most members of the Continental Congress actually signed the Declaration of Independence in Philadelphia. (MC)
Join the Signers of America’s Founding Documents
You can add your name to either the Declaration of Indepence or the Constitution. Visit www.archives. gov/founding-docs/join-the-signers.
Sign your name and download the image.
The 1823 stone engraved image Declaration of Independence by William J. Stone
PHOTO CREDITS ADOBESTOCK
Summer
‘Star Wars’ opened May 25, 1977 The George Lucas film that spawned an empire and changed movie special effects forever.
‘Grease’ opened June 16, 1978 Olivia Newton-John and John Travolta, say no more.
By Michele E. Buttelman Signal Staff Writer
Remember when summer movies were an important part of your summer entertainment? Who can forget some of the summer blockbusters of the past? How many of these classic summer blockbusters have you seen?
Summer blockbusters have had a lasting impact on society creating popular catch-phrases and a shared national memory that spans generations.
Who can forget the “Barbenheimer” cultural phenomenon which surrounded the simultaneous theatrical release of “Barbie” and “Oppenheimer” in 2023?
Past Summer Blockbusters
This list might have you reminiscing that they “just don’t make movies like they used to.”
‘Jaws’ opened June 20, 1975 Considered the first true summer blockbuster, “Jaws,” the film that prevented a generation from ever swimming in the ocean, just celebrated its 50th anniversary.
‘E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial’ opened June 11, 1982 ‘E,T. phone home’ became part of the national lexicon.
‘Ghostbusters’ opened June 8, 1984 Who will ever forget the Stay Puft Marshmallow Man?
‘Top Gun’ opened May 16, 1986 Iceman (Val Kilmer, left) and Maverick (Tom Cruise) annoy each other during amazing sky duels.
‘Batman’ opened June 23, 1989 Tim Burton’s take on the Dark Knight defined the hero for a generation. Michael Keaton is still memorable as Batman.
‘Ghost’ opened July 13, 1990 Demi Moore and Patrick Swayze get intimate with clay.
‘Jurassic Park’ opened June 11, 1993 “Objects in mirror may be closer than they appear” entered the cultural zeitgeist in a whole new way.
‘The Lion King’ opened June 15, 1994 The Disney classic that gave children a taste of Shakespearean drama with a side of Elton John music.
‘Independence Day’ opened July 3, 1996 Space invaders blow up the White House in an all-out assault on Earth, and Will Smith’s hotshot pilot
and Jeff Goldblum’s brainiac scientist team up to fight back.
‘Men in Black’ opened July 2, 1997 Will Smith and Tommy Lee Jones offer a buddy-cop vibe in this goofy scifi action comedy.
‘Spider-Man’ opened May 3, 2002 Tobey Maguire brought the comic-book hero to life years before the Marvel Comics Universe went crazy.
Summer 2025
What’s the summer blockbuster movie of 2025? Movies already released this summer include:
Opened May 23 ‘Lilo & Stitch’ This live-action reimagining of the 2002 classic is about orphaned Hawaiian sisters who unknowingly adopt an alien.
‘Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning’ This could be Tom Cruise’s last ride as Ethan Hunt.
June 13 ‘How to Train Your Dragon’ Another life action remake.
June 20 ‘Elio’ A Disney/Pixar release about an 11-year-old earthling (Yonas Kibreab) who is abducted by aliens and assumed to be a world leader.
Up Next
Opening June 27 ‘F1’ Brad Pitt plays “the best that never was,” F1 driver Sonny Hayes, who’s recruited to mentor a young up-and-comer (Damson Idris). Real racing cars were used and a new camera system was developed to give audiences an
immersive experience.
Opening July 2 ‘Jurassic World Rebirth’ This is a standalone sequel to “Jurassic World Dominion” (2022), the fourth Jurassic World film and the seventh installment overall in the “Jurassic Park” franchise. The film stars Scarlett Johansson, Mahershala Ali and Jonathan Bailey. Much about the film has been kept hush-hush.
Opening July 11 ‘Superman’ Director James Gunn is ushering in a new era of Superman starring David Corenswet, Rachel Brosnahan as Lois Lane and Nicholas Hoult as Lex Luthor.
Opening July 25 ‘The Fantastic Four: First Steps’ Pedro Pascal, Vanessa Kirby, Joseph Quinn and Ebon MossBachrach unite to play “Marvel’s first family” in this retro-futuristic world set in 1960s New York.
Opening Aug. 1 ‘The Bad Guys 2’ Sam Rockwell, Marc Maron, Craig Robinson, Awkwafina and Anthony Ramos return for another animated heist, teaming up with a new squad called the Bad Girls.
Opening Aug. 8 ‘Freakier Friday’ Jamie Lee Curtis and Lindsay Lohan are back as the body-swapping mother and daughter duo.
Opening Aug. 29 ‘The Roses’ This modern reimagining of “The War of the Roses” stars Olivia Colman and Benedict Cumberbatch as the feuding couple.
Small Towns That are Worth a Visit
By Angela Timmons Only in California
When most people think of Southern California, the first things that come to mind are the plentiful sandy beaches, the endless blue skies and the warm summer days that seem to stretch on throughout the entire year. There’s one thing that many people overlook when it comes to Southern California, and that is the charm of our many small towns nestled throughout our part of the state. Here are some of our favorite tiniest towns in Southern California. Which small town tops your list of must-visit places here in SoCal?
Sierra Madre
Located in Los Angeles County, this small town with a population under 12,000 feels like it’s a million miles away from the big city. In addition to its charming main street and local shops, Sierra Madre is nicknamed “Wisteria City” as it’s home to the largest blooming wisteria vine in the world.
Julian
An official California Historic Landmark, the delightful town of Julian is one place that is not to be
missed. Whether you show up for apple season or you explore the peaceful countryside on foot in the spring, summer or fall, this peaceful town in San Diego County, with a population close to 1,500, is an absolute treasure.
Forest Falls
Who can resist a tiny town nestled on the edge of the San Bernardino National Forest? With many fantastic trails to explore and several waterfalls to discover, the small SoCal destination of Forest Falls, with fewer than 800 houses, is a little slice of magic.
San Dimas
When you’re seeking a slice of SoCal that captures the look and feel of the good old days, head to San Dimas, a small town with a population under 35,000. Stroll along Bonita Avenue’s charming old town district and browse the local shops and restaurants. Whether you take a day trip or a weekend getaway to San Dimas, this town is unforgettable and has so much to explore.
Oak Glen
Located in San Bernardino County, approximately 15 miles east of San Bernardino, the charming town of Oak Glen, with a population of less than 1,000
as of its last census, will steal your heart. You’ll love taking a Sunday drive along rural roads and stopping at Oak Tree Village for a day of shopping in a setting that will remind you of simpler times. This is such a peaceful town in Southern California.
Pine Valley
Head down Old Highway 80 in the Cuyamaca Mountains in San Diego County, and you’ll discover the tiny town of Pine Valley with its equally tiny population of 2,000. Make sure to swing by Frosty Burger, the local burger joint, for a burger and an ice cream cone to make your visit complete.
Trabuco Canyon
You know you are in the heart of this small Southern California town when you reach the general store. Perhaps one of SoCal’s most hidden gems, Trabuco Canyon is a spot few people know about but a destination you’ll never forget once you have the chance to visit. It’s also a hiker’s paradise with numerous trails leading to adventure.
Avalon
What could be better than a tiny island town? Located on Catalina Island and reachable by ferry, the town of Avalon is one of SoCal’s most delightful des-
Trabuco Canyon is a hiker’s paradise with numerous trails leading to adventures. ©ADOBESTOCK
Downtown Running Springs. COURTESY RUNNING SPRINGS AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
Forest Falls is on the edge of the San Bernardino National Forest. ©RYAN MCCARTHY ALLTRAILS
tinations, capturing the charm of small-town living and being a great place for slow travel.
San Juan Capistrano
The town of San Juan Capistrano is delightful and perfect for strolling and enjoying the historic architecture and lush green trees. Although not the tiniest town on this list, with a population under 40,000, this destination is just the right size. From great local shopping to picturesque areas for walking, this is one place that should be on everyone’s Southern
Running Springs
Located just 17 miles west of Big Bear Lake, you’ll find the small town of Running Springs, with a population under 5,000, just waiting to be explored. From local parades to weekly farmers markets and frequent community events, this charming destination should definitely be on your radar if you want to experience a slice of Americana right here in SoCal. And if you’re hungry while I’m in Running
Wrightwood
When you’re seeking out some peace and quiet in Southern California, in a destination that’s filled with nothing but small-town charm, then Wrightwood is the perfect place to be. You’ll find hiking, tasty restaurants, and wildlife galore in this small California mountain town tucked inside the San Gabriel Mountains. (Only in California)
Mission San Juan Capistrano. ©ADOBESTOCK
Charming historic streets of Old Town San Dimas. ©ADOBESTOCK
Victorian-era architecture on main street Julian. ©ADOBESTOCK
The Beautiful Avalon Casino Point and Casino off the Coast of California. ©ADOBESTOCK
Oak Tree Village of Oak Tree is a setting that will remind you of simpler times. ©ADOBESTOCK
California bucket list.
Springs, I love Neo’s Pizza House, especially its Peanut Butter Pizza!
COMMUNITY INSPIRED
Exploring
FROM THE CITY MANAGER
Fiscal Responsibility Pays Off with Another On-Time and Balanced City Budget
By Ken Striplin Santa Clarita City Manager
At our meeting earlier this month, your City Council adopted another on-time and balanced budget for Fiscal Year 2025-26 totaling $344.6 million. Getting to this point was a six-month process, with City staff working closely with the City Council Budget Committee to determine what items would be funded for the upcoming fiscal year. Several factors went into shaping this year’s budget, including consideration of the uncertain state of the economy and the importance of maintaining the City’s strong fiscal solvency.
Outdoors
This new budget will bring to fruition several of the items which are organized by the themes outlined within our current Strategic PlanSanta Clarita 2025. Under the theme of Building and Creating Community, funds will go to increase the GO! Santa Clarita micro-transit service, programming at William S. Hart Park and the Valencia Community Center. Under the theme of Enhancing Economic Vitality, a new Zamboni will be purchased to help maintain the ice at The Cube – Ice and Entertainment Center, powered by FivePoint – Valencia. For Community Beautification and Sustainability, repair and maintenance of infrastructure will take place across 36 Landscape Maintenance District zones. To assist with brush clearance, funding has been allocated for goat grazing services.
While the City continues to see significant growth, the cost to maintain existing public infrastructure continues to rise and be a challenge. Therefore, several projects have been funded under the theme of Sustaining Public
Infrastructure. Some of these projects include the replacement of 16 Santa Clarita Transit vehicles, upgraded lighting at the McBean Regional Transit Center, new fleet vehicles, maintenance at William S. Hart Park and the completion of the new Haskell Canyon Bike Park.
Santa Clarita continues to rank as one of the safest cities in the nation. Through special operations, targeted traffic enforcement, specialized deployments, the apprehension of suspects and public education and awareness efforts, our local sheriff personnel continue to do a tremendous job in keeping this community safe. To support their efforts, funds will go to the annual Sheriff’s Contract cost-of-living adjustment and the Liability Trust Fund.
The next fiscal year’s Capital Improvement budget is $81.5 million, including funding for Safe Routes to School, bicycle crossing enhancements, the Phase I construction of Via Princessa Park and the Annual Overlay and Slurry Seal Programs, to name a few.
Santa Clarita continues to thrive thanks to the conservative budget practices our City Council has upheld since incorporation. This approach has led to the City maintaining an elite AAA credit rating by S&P Global Ratings – the highest achievable designation. This year’s budget is no exception, and will ensure that our City remains well-maintained, offering a high quality of life to all who call it home.
Ken Striplin is the City Manager for the City of Santa Clarita and can be reached at kstriplin@santaclarita.gov.
Easy Recipes for a Fourth of July Menu
Look, we love to riff on new recipes all year long, but when it's the Fourth of July, it's time to stick to the classics. After all, what would 4th of July even be without hot dogs, hamburgers, potato salad, and corn on the cob?! Here are a few recipes that may just jump your menu to the next level.
Best-Ever Burger
Ingredients
1 lb. ground beef
Kosher salt
Freshly ground black pepper
2 Tbsp. melted butter
3 slices cheese, such as American For serving
3 hamburger buns
1 large tomato, thinly sliced Iceberg lettuce
Minced white onion
Shape beef into 3 equal-sized patties, about 1” wider than the bun. Season both sides of each patty liberally with salt and pepper. Press a wide, shallow indent into the center of each burger.
Heat grill or grill pan to high. Grill patties until crust develops and they’re no longer pink, 6 minutes. Flip and immediately brush with melted butter on top of each patty. Cook 3 minutes more then add cheese. Continue cooking to desired doneness, 3 minutes more for medium.
Sandwich burgers between buns with desired fixings.
Best Classic Potato Salad
Ingredients
3 lb. Yukon Gold potatoes, unpeeled, cut into 1/2” pieces
Kosher salt
1 small red onion, finely chopped
1 1/2 cups mayonnaise
1/4 cup finely chopped dill pickles
1 Tbsp. Dijon mustard
1 Tbsp. fresh lemon juice
1/2 tsp. paprika
4 hard-boiled eggs, chopped
1/4 cup thinly sliced chives
Freshly ground black pepper
In a large pot, cover potatoes with water; generously season with salt. Bring water to a boil and cook until potatoes are easily pierced with a knife, 12 to 15 minutes. Drain and let cool slightly.
In a large bowl, mix onion, mayonnaise, pickles, mustard, lemon juice, and paprika until well combined. Fold in potatoes, eggs, and chives; season with salt and pepper. Refrigerate until ready to serve.
Honey Lime Grilled Corn
Ingredients
Vegetable oil, for grill
4 ears of corn, shucked
1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
1 jalapeño, seeded and finely chopped
1 clove garlic, minced
2 Tbsp. chopped fresh cilantro
2 Tbsp. honey
1 Tbsp. chopped fresh oregano
1 tsp. finely grated lime zest
2 tsp. fresh lime juice
1/2 tsp. kosher salt
1/4 tsp. fresh ground black pepper
Prepare a gas or charcoal grill for medium-high heat (alternatively, heat a grill pan over medium-high heat); clean and oil grates and preheat 5 minutes. Grill corn, rotating frequently, until starting to char on all sides, 18 to 20 minutes.
Meanwhile, in a small bowl, whisk butter, jalapeño, garlic, cilantro, honey, oregano, lime zest, lime juice, salt, and black pepper.
Transfer corn to a 13”-by-9” baking dish. Spread 1 tablespoon honey-lime butter onto each ear of corn. Cover with foil and let sit 5 minutes. Serve with remaining butter alongside. (De;lish.com)
The Latest News on What’s Happening In Hollywood
By Tony Rizzo
Tom Cruise was the original “Jack Reacher” in 2012, followed by Alan Ritchson. Ritchson, the star of Amazon Prime Video’s new “Reacher,” has completed three seasons (24 episodes) and is poised to shoot season four. But Ritchson hasn’t rested on his laurels during his hiatus; he’ll explode in five major upcoming projects:
The first is Amazon Prime’s holiday/action-comedy film “The Man with the Bag,” co-starring Arnold Schwarzenegger (as Santa), Awkwafina, Jane Krakowski and Ken Jeong.
The second is the comedy “Playdate,” with Kevin James and Isla Fisher.
The third is the thriller “Motor City,” opposite Shailane Woodley and Ben Foster.
The fourth is Netflix’s sci-fi/action film “War Machine,” with Dennis Quaid and Esai Morales.
Finally, his fifth project will be the action/thriller “Runner,” opposite Owen Wilson. Ritchson is very versatile!
Thirteen years after “Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows — Part 2” (the eight-film franchise earned $7.7 billion), HBO is making a series in which each of the seven books will encompass an entire season. Twelveyear-old Scottish actor Dominic McLaughlin will play Harry Potter. Eleven-year-old Arabella Stanton will be Hermione Granger and 11-year-old Alastair Stout will play Ron Weasley. Obviously, they’ll age as each book is filmed.
They have little or no credits but were chosen after a huge casting call. They start shooting mid-summer in Warner Bros. Studios Leavesden,
where the original films were shot.
Now onto “Downton Abbey: The Grand Finale!” The final film will have the Crawley family saying goodbye to their Grantham estate. Most of the cast from the series and two films are returning, including Hugh Bonneville, Michelle Dockery, Allen Leech, Elizabeth McGovern, Paul Giamatti and Joely Richardson. It’ll open in theaters on Sept. 12.
Eric McCormack has left “Will & Grace’s” Will Truman behind to star in the BBC thriller series “Nine Bodies in a Mexican Morgue.” The six-episode MGM+ series follows an air disaster in which nine strangers are marooned in a Mexican jungle. As they start dying one by one, the survivors must solve the mystery of who is killing them. McCormack modestly said of Will Truman when he first read the script, “Sexual orientation aside, Will was so much like me. He’s a great host, he’s relatively funny, and he has great friends and he’s a good friend to them. The gay issue just wasn’t really a big thing.”
Two-time Oscar winner Emma Stone stars with Jesse Plemmons in the sci-fi comedy “Bugonia.” It’s a remake of the 2003 South Korean film “Save the Green Planet,” in which two obsessed men kidnap a high-powered CEO who is convinced that she’s an alien intending to destroy Earth. If they expect anyone to believe that Emma Stone is an alien ... they must be stoned!
centuries of tradition when he befr ends Toothless, a feared Night Fur y dragon
Materialists E Sun to Tue: 1:20 7:10; Wed: 1:20 PM; Thu 1:20 7:10
A young, ambitious New York C ty matchmaker finds herse f torn between the per fec t match and her mper fec t ex
PriMe MiNister Sun 10 30 AM
This fi m fol ows Jac nda Ardern for seven years as she is catapulted to the top of New Zealand politics the liFe oF chuck E Sun: 10:20 4:20; Mon to Thu: 4:20 PM
Charles ‘Chuck’ Krantz exper ences the wonder of love, the hear tbreak of loss, and the mu t tudes contained in all of us shall We daNce (1996)
Sports That Can Compel Seniors to Get Up and Move
Discussions about the benefits of sports participation are often rooted in how much young people can gain from playing a team sport. Older adults have much to gain from playing sports as well, and that’s something retirees can keep in mind as they look for activities to fill their time.
A 2018 study published in the journal Biochemistry Research International found that physical activity can be a protective factor for noncommunicable diseases, including heart disease and diabetes, and can even help to delay the onset of dementia. The study also linked physical activity to improved quality of life and mental health. Sports require players to be physically active, so seniors who decide to dust off their athletic gear and play the following sports can reap all the rewards that getting up and moving has to offer.
Pickleball The popularity of pickleball has skyrocketed in recent years, with the Sports & Fitness Industry Association estimating there are now roughly nine million pickleball players in the United States.
Walking Accessibility is one of the major benefits of walking. Even seniors with limited mobility can look to walking as a less demanding physical activity that compels them to get out of the house. And the benefits of walking may be more profound than people realize.
Preliminary research presented at an American Heart Association gathering in 2023 estimated that walking an additional 500 steps per day, which is equivalent to roughly a quarter of a mile, was associated with a 14% lower risk for heart disease, stroke or heart failure.
Softball Baseball was the first love of many a sports fan over the years, and senior softball provides a way to maintain or even reignite that passion, all the while reaping the health benefits of sports play.
Softball can help seniors maintain their hand-eye coordination and improve their flexibility. But perhaps the most notable benefit of playing senior softball involves socialization.
Senior softball requires being on a team, and the benefits of socialization for seniors are numerous, particularly when they play in leagues featuring players from outside their immediate social circle.
A 2019 study published in The Journals of Gerontology found that older adults who socialize with people outside their typical social circle were more likely to have higher levels of physical activity and a more positive mood. Such individuals also had fewer negative feelings.
Golf Golf provides a range of health benefits that committed players are well aware of. Seniors who play golf, particularly those who walk the course instead of using a cart to get around, can reap the rewards of walking, including improved cardiovascular health, and even the benefits of strength-training, as carrying a golf bag around nine or 18 holes can build strength that protects bones and reduces the risk of fractures. Traversing a course also helps to burn calories, which can help seniors maintain a healthy weight.
The benefits of sports participation apply to people of all ages, including seniors. (MC)
Seniors who decide to dust off their athletic gear and play the following sports can reap all the rewards that getting up and moving has to offer.
STAY IN THE HOME YOU
HOME
Challenging Paint Projects
Some DIY projects are easier than others. Painting tricky areas like windows, curves, corners, murals and more might intimidate some painters, but don’t let difficulty deter you from transforming your home into a space you love. DIYers of all skill levels can complete tough paint projects with a few useful tips and the right tools.
Challenge 1 Windows
When facing any difficult painting project, like windows, preparation is critical. First, clean the wood trim with warm, soapy water and a cloth or sponge.
For wooden windows that will require paint application near the glass, don’t forget to wipe the windowpanes with a glass cleaner.
THE MODERN SOLUTION
A Stiltz Homelift is a safe, attractive, & affordable alternative to stairlifts. It requires no special machine room, and no supporting walls.
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A Stiltz Homelift can fit just about anywhere in your house. It has a compact footprint, similar in size to a small armchair. A Stiltz Homelift plugs into a standard home electrical outlet, using less power than a coffee maker.
YOUR FOREVER HOME
Avoid the expense and distress of relocating, or the disruption of adapting your home for downstairs living. A Stiltz Homelift helps you live safely and independently in the home you love.
IT’S NEVER TOO SOON
Some Stiltz customers need a Homelift immediately. But others want to “future-proof” their homes for when the stairs become a challenge.
HOMELIFT SPECIALISTS
Stiltz is a world leading Homelift manufacturer, so you’ll be in good hands. Your elevator will be installed and maintained by Stiltz trained professionals who truly care about your freedom.
Buildup on these surfaces can prevent painter’s tape from bonding to the surface, leaving room around the edges for paint to seep through and creating unnecessary cleanup post-painting.
Once the surface is prepped, line each windowpane and the trim with painter’s tape, overlapping the edges in each corner for the tightest seal.
Challenge 2 Curves and Edges
A good multi-surface painter’s tape can help DIYers achieve professional results for most paint projects, but when it comes to unusual contours, it’s worth investing in a conformable painter’s tape, like FrogTape Advanced. Made with thin but strong washi paper backing, the green tape lies flat while conforming to curved areas, like around light fixtures, mantels, molding and fireplaces. It’s also treated with exclusive PaintBlock Technology to seal tape edges for clean, sharp paint lines.
Challenge 3 Corners and Trim
When painting a wall or ceiling, it’s not always easy to prevent paint bleed in the corners where adjacent walls or trim meet. Properly applying painter’s tape can simplify the task.
When painting the ceiling, apply tape to the wall around the perimeter of the room, keeping the tape flush with the line where the two areas meet, and overlap the tape in the corners.
A similar process can be followed when painting wood trim. When the project is complete, remove the tape slowly at a 45-degree angle while the paint is still wet for best results.
Challenge 4 Murals
Recent consumer research conducted by FrogTape discovered that one of the most popular painting trends for DIYers is nature-inspired faux wallpaper. While more than half of people prefer painting a mural over applying wallpaper, 36% still say “not feeling confident in painting skills” is holding them back from trying this project.
Experienced painters may be confident enough to freehand a design, but those who are newer to the task can rely on painter’s tape or stencils to bring their vision to life. Stencils can be used as a guide to create floral or leaf patterns, or DIYers can sketch the shapes and tape them off with painter’s tape to keep outlines crisply defined.
Painting is one of the most rewarding DIY projects, but don’t make it harder than it has to be. These tips can help simplify your next paint project, no matter how complicated it might seem. (SPT)
Weeds: The Number One Threat to the Yard of Your Dreams
If you’re a homeowner who takes pride in your lawn, you know how big a headache weeds are. To help you achieve the yard of your dreams, Exmark has partnered with Jason Creel, the owner of Alabama Lawn Pros, on a new video offering tips and insights into tackling weeds.
“I don’t endorse a simple spray-andpray strategy. Identifying weeds and understanding their life cycle is essential to using the right product at the right time and in the right amount,” says Creel.
Major categories of weeds to be aware of:
• Grassy weeds, like crab grass and goose grass may look like regular turf grass, but they’re not nearly as uniform.
• Broadleaf weeds, like dandelion and clover, stand out with their wide leaves, bright flowers and seed heads.
• Sedges, like nutsedge, looks like grass, but instead have a solid, triangular stem without nodes.
Weeds can also be categorized by their life cycles:
• Some weeds, like spurge, are annual weeds. They sprout, grow and die in one season.
• There are perennial weeds, like oxalis, also known as yellow wood sorrel, or nutsedge, and they come back year after year from that same root clump.
It’s also important to know if you’re dealing with warm or cool season weeds. Warm season weeds germinate in the spring and die out in the fall
and cool season weeds are typically going to germinate in the fall, mature the following spring and die out as the weather gets hot in the summer.
“These varying life cycles is why weed control is a year-round battle. But thankfully, it’s not as difficult as it might sound,” says Creel.
For most lawns, a preemergent herbicide application in the spring and then again in the fall is the first line of defense, however, the timing shifts every year, so for best results, watch the weather, not the calendar. If your weeds have already sprouted, that’s where your post-emergent herbicides are going to come in. Whenever spraying any kind of herbicide, wear personal protective equipment and follow the label.
According to Creel, it’s often a good idea to use pre- and post-emergent herbicides together, or to use a combination product to control different types of weeds. In every case, you’ll want to rotate products to prevent resistance and ensure future success.
Of course, overall turf health should also be prioritized. Lawns cut weekly tend to have fewer weeds than lawns cut every other week, and if you let your lawn grow too tall and cut off too much to save time, you risk weakening your yard. The rule of thumb is not to
Experts advise mowing your lawn weekly for better weed control.
mow off more than one third of the blade. Remember, healthy yards fight off weeds more effectively, so keeping blades sharp and changing up mowing patterns regularly are essential.
For more insights, watch “Types of Weeds and What to Do About Them,” a new episode of “Done-In-A-Weekend Projects,” an original series from lawn care equipment manufacturer, Exmark. To watch the video, visit Exmark’s Backyard Life, a unique multimedia destination focused on helping homeowners improve their outdoor living spaces. There you can also download additional tips and view other Exmark Original Series videos.
“Even with a good plan, weeds are very persistent. Spot-treat them as they appear, and keep your soil healthy, because strong, thick turf is the best natural defense against weeds,” says Creel. (SPT)
Pet Corner
How to Improve Your Dog’s Gut Health
hen it comes to humans, gut health can be a great indicator of overall health. Often, when illnesses or conditions arise, symptoms are present in the gastrointestinal system — and the same is true for your pet.
“When my dogs are dealing with stomach issues, they’re not themselves — they just seem off,” said Kaley Cuoco, co-founder of Oh Norman!, a pet
wellness brand. “That’s why I became so obsessed with finding a way to boost their digestive health.”
Gut health involves several components of the gastrointestinal tract, including the microbiome (bacteria, viruses and fungi) and digestive system, which controls how the body breaks down and absorbs the nutritional components of food.
A healthy gut allows your pet to live comfortably with good overall well-
ness and a properly functioning immune system. Dogs with healthy guts have a moderate, consistent appetite and maintain a healthy weight. They have adequate energy and even look visibly healthy with a shiny coat..
Conversely, dogs with gut health problems may be lethargic and have problems with excess or too little weight. They may experience pain, bad breath, poor skin condition and a variety of gastro symptoms like constipation, gas, vomiting or diarrhea.
If you’re concerned about your dog’s gut health, consider these tips from the animal-loving experts at Oh Norman!
Consult with your veterinarian
Problems with gut health can have a dizzying number of sources, so if your dog exhibits signs of a gut health issue that seem severe or don’t go away within a day or two, it’s a good idea to talk with an expert.
The advice you get will be tailored to your pet’s specific circumstances and needs so you can help your fourlegged friend feel better fast.
Pay attention to the dog’s diet A good gut-health eating plan is fiber-rich and balanced with protein, vegetables and healthy fats. Foods that contain probiotics support good bacteria while prebiotics help feed good bacteria.
Food allergies or intolerances can also trigger gut health problems, so pay attention to ingredients that may be problematic for your pet.
Add supplements If you’re con-
cerned, and your veterinarian agrees, it may be useful to supplement your dog’s diet to support gut health. One option is Good Effing Gut, a functional soft chew from Oh Norman! formulated to support digestive and immune health in dogs.
Suitable for dogs of all ages, these chews promote a balanced gut microbiome, support healthy digestion and immune functions and may aid weight management.
Available in a natural pumpkin cinnamon flavor, the chews offer safe, effective ingredients including pumpkin and chicory root (prebiotics), Bacillus subtilis (probiotic) and Lactobacillus acidophilus (postbiotic), which work together to promote nutrient absorption, maintain healthy digestion, support skin and coat health and contribute to overall canine wellness.
External factors If your dog’s gut health issues aren’t driven by diet, some environmental adjustments can make a difference. For example, creating a more peaceful, secure living environment can help settle gut problems.
Practice good general care Providing your pet with consistent loving care can also play a role in gut health. Dogs that feel safe, are well-disciplined, get regular exercise and remain well-hydrated tend to have stronger gut health.
Learn more about good gut health for your dog at ohnorman.com. (Family Features)
Phantom Pregnancy in Dogs
Dear Paw’s Corner I’ll bet you’ve never heard of this one before! My cousin has a female dog who has never been spayed. So she routinely will go into heat. Well, a few months ago, she started behaving funny. She didn’t want to eat, she started pacing the house and then would flop down and not want to go outside, for walks or anything. Even though she wasn’t eating much, she put on weight and her mammaries started to swell.
She also started “guarding” her toys and acting ag-
gressive if anyone tried to reach for them. I told my cousin, maybe she’s pregnant, but he insisted that she had never been around a male dog or gone unsupervised outside.
He took her to the vet because he thought she was ill. Would you believe, the vet diagnosed her with a “phantom” pregnancy? She had all the signs of being pregnant but there were no puppies.
The vet gave her medication for a few weeks, and eventually she got back to her old self. What do you think about that?
— Terry P. in Albany, New York
Dear Terry I have heard of this before! In unspayed females, pseudo-pregnancy, or “phantom pregnancy,” can happen after a heat cycle. It’s uncomfortable for the dog and concerning for the owner.
Treatment includes confirming the absence of a pregnancy, followed by medication to reduce anxiety and stop milk production. Hormone therapy is sometimes needed.
The best way to stop phantom pregnancy from happening again is to spay the dog after all symptoms have subsided, and it’s highly recommended. Spaying will help your cousin’s dog be far more comfortable — she won’t go through heat cycles any longer — and have a healthier, longer lifespan, too. Send your tips, comments or questions to ask@ pawscorner.com.
©2025 King Features Synd., Inc.
KEEP YOUR SERVICE ANIMAL
Fair Housing & Animals
The federal Fair Housing Act (FHA) makes it illegal for landlords to refuse to make necessary and reasonable accommodations, or changes, to their rules and policies for people with disabilities.
Allowing a disabled tenant to live with their companion or service animal is a common reasonable accommodation under the FHA. This includes waiving an existing “no-pet” policy for tenants with mental or physical disabilities who require an animal for medical purposes.
The Housing Rights Center is a non-profit organization established in 1968 to actively support and promote equal opportunity and freedom of residence to all persons without regard to their race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, national origin, familial status, disability, marital status, gender identity, gender expression, age, source of income, or other characteristics protected by law.
• Deny you the right to live with your companion or service animal
• Charge you a pet deposit fee or other surcharge
• Not allow your companion or service animal to be with you in common areas
HEALTH
What You Can Do to Reduce Digital Eye Strain
Digital devices have become a ubiquitous component of work, school and leisure. Whether checking email or completing assignments or watching funny videos, screens feature prominently in modern life. Across the globe, the average person spends an average of six hours and 40 minutes looking at screens each day, according to the digital marketing experts at Backlinko. That screen time is slightly higher for people in the United States, where the average daily screen time is seven hours and three minutes. While there is plenty of data indicating how screen time can affect everything from sleep to waist circumference, it also can impact the eyes. Screen time eye strain, also known
as digital eye strain or computer vision syndrome, is a growing problem thanks to the widespread usage of screens. The American Academy of Ophthalmology says that while screens themselves and the blue light they emit will not damage the eyes permanently, staring at them for long durations can cause temporary discomfort.
Symptoms such as dry eyes, blurry vision, headache, and tearing or watery eyes may occur. That is largely due to the fact that people blink less when they stare at devices. The AAO says the normal blink rate is 15 times per minute, but that frequency is slashed in half when looking at screens or doing other near work like reading.
Penn Medicine and the AAO offer the following tips to alleviate digital eye strain.
Get Routine Eye Exams
It is important to stay on top of vision changes. Any symptoms being experienced should be brought to the attention of an eye doctor at a routine eye exam or beforehand if it is problematic.
Although digital eye strain may be to blame, there may be another condition at the heart of symptoms.
Placement of Computers
While sitting at a desk, the computer screen should be 25 to 30 inches away from the person, or roughly arm’s length. The screen also should be placed three to four inches below eye level for optimum comfort and use.
Take Breaks
People should give their eyes occasional breaks, making it a habit to look up from the screen and at an object in the distance. Most professionals recommend the 20-20-20 rule: If you look at a screen for 20 minutes, look
away at something at least 20 feet away from you for 20 seconds.
Wear Eyeglasses
People who wear contact lenses know they can increase irritation and dryness. When working on screens, try wearing eyeglasses instead of contacts to reduce these symptoms.
Reduce Glare
Adjust the brightness and contrast of the screen to make viewing more comfortable. Dim the lighting nearby to help reduce eye strain. Individuals also can purchase matte screen filters for their devices.
Use Artificial Tears
If dry eyes become a problem with screen usage, then utilize artificial tears to an keep eyes lubricated. Digital eye strain is a consequence of the modern reliance on devices. Luckily, there are ways to help reduce symptoms and feel more comfortable when looking at computers and other devices. (MC)
When working on screens, try wearing eyeglasses instead of contacts to reduce these symptoms. ©ADOBESTOCK
FINANCE
Half of Americans Experience Financial ‘FOMO’
More 1 in 2 Americans (51%) have made a purchase or investment due to financial FOMO — the fear of missing out on a financial opportunity or experience. New Empower research shows a comparison effect taking place: Nearly one-third (31%) say they often compare their financial situations with others while scrolling social media. But there is a sense of optimism in the act, as most people say seeing others achieve their financial milestones inspires them to improve their own money habits (71%).
Key takeaways
• Nearly 70% of Gen Z feels financial FOMO while scrolling social media.
• Americans are most likely to spend money on dining out (21%) and travel (18%) due to financial FOMO.
• More than one in two people (57%) have made a financial decision after seeing others’ lifestyles online.
What is financial FOMO?
Half of Americans (51%) say seeing what others are buying on social media motivates them to spend money due to a fear of missing out. Of those who have made a purchase because of financial FOMO, 10% say they’ve done so within the past week.
Nearly 70% of Gen Z say they experience financial FOMO, compared to 57% of Millennials and Gen X and 28% of Baby Boomers. Gen Zers (11%) are also more than twice as likely as Millennials to have bought something within the past week due to financial FOMO.
Americans who do experience financial FOMO
are most likely to spend money on experiences like dining out (21%) and travel (18%), but others say it’s led them to make investments (16%) and spend at events like concerts (15%).
Financial FOMO Can Be Positive
Nearly one in five Americans (18%) feel motivated to succeed when they see others post their financial wins like major purchases or investment gains on social media, and another 16% say it makes them curious to learn more.
More than 15% of those who experience financial FOMO say it inspires them to invest, while others say it’s made them open a new savings account (14%) or improve their debt repayment strategy (13%). Broadly, 57% of people have made a financial decision after seeing others share their lifestyles online.
Nearly three in four (73%) have been inspired to spend money, invest, or change their saving habits due to financial FOMO — more specifically, after seeing posts shared by friends and family (15%), product recommendations and reviews (14%), or investment success stories (13%).
Social Media Inspires Optimism
Social media may be a primary driver of financial FOMO, but most Americans (57%) say it helps them feel more optimistic about their financial futures — and the number is even higher for Gen Z (78%) and Millennials (70%).
Specifically, Americans feel inspired to improve their finances by seeing people on social media reach financial milestones like becoming debt-free (22%), achieving financial independence (16%), and building a significant passive income stream (15%). Broken down by age group, more than four in five
Gen Zers (86%) and Millennials (82%) and three in four Gen Xers (75%) say seeing financial milestones shared online motivates them to improve their own financial situations (compared to 48% of Baby Boomers).
Most people (66%) actively seek out financial educational content on social media, such as saving and budgeting tips (24%), side hustle inspiration (22%), and advice on reaching long-term financial goals (19%). Additionally, one in five (19%) say social media inspires them to pursue their financial goals and that it makes them feel less alone in their financial struggles.
Additional Findings
Here are more findings from the study:
Blockchain buzz Despite the popularity of Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies, only around one in 10 people (11%) have invested in crypto because of financial FOMO.
New lines of credit One in five Gen Zers (20%) has been inspired to apply for a new credit card due to financial FOMO.
Social media anxieties Gen Z is most likely to feel anxious or self-conscious when seeing others share financial wins (18% compared to 13% of Millennials and Gen X and 6% of Boomers).
Millennials prioritize travel Millennials (22%) are about twice as likely as Gen Zers (11%) to spend on travel due to financial FOMO.
Methodology
Empower’s Financial FOMO survey is based on online responses from 1,092 Americans ages 18+ fielded by a third-party panel provider on March 28, 2025. (BPT)
©ADOBE STOCK
PUZZLES
SOLUTIONS
Appreciating
the Pioneer Trail
I always try to hike new trails in our valley soon after they open. Our newest trail and Santa Clarita’s 39th park opened a week ago, so I checked it out. That’s Pioneer Oil Refinery Park located on Pioneer Way near Needham Ranch Parkway.
Pioneer Trail begins next to the two original oil tanks that are the focal point of the park, which includes restrooms and a shaded picnic area with tables and benches. The trail winds along the hillside below the Needham Ranch industrial park. It overlooks the railroad tracks, businesses and storage lots along Pine Street, and Santa Clarita Valley Water Agency offices, which can be seen occasionally from the trail. There are some good views of the city. It is well-marked and well-defined.
Pioneer Trail ends at the parking lot and picnic area for the Gates Open Space at the end of Pine Street, where I encountered a good-sized bobcat on Super Bowl Sunday in 2022. At this point you can access trails in the Gates Open Space, through which you can also connect to the Newhall Pass Open Space and then on to the Wildwood Canyon Open Space, in case you’re interested.
Now that would be a long and adventurous hike, considerably beyond my endurance abilities.
I’m not qualified to rate the difficulty, but I would consider it to range from easy to moderate. Definitely nothing difficult. It’s moderately shaded. The length is not posted, but it took me about 1.5 hours round-trip, a comfortable workout for a soon-to-be 80-year-old avid SCV hiker.On Tuesday afternoon, I was the lone hiker on the trail. As word gets out I expect it to be a convenient, frequently used trail for all skill levels. It should be great for families with young children.
Thanks to city officials for continually adding to and upgrading the outdoor facilities available to our residents.
Jack Crawford Saugus
In Pursuit of Joy
By David Hegg
The great American pastime is no longer baseball, or for that matter, anything even remotely related to sport. No, it is much more consuming than any passion for a team or city could be. It is the addiction we have to happiness.
Our days have become a constant pursuit of this feeling. From the moment the alarm announces the day, we search for happiness. We look for it in a cup of coffee, the newspaper and some quiet moments. We tune in to find it on our favorite radio station as we drive to work, and maybe in the always-hoped-for quick commute. You can fill in your details, but you know what I mean.
happiness results from circumstances, joy is the fruit of beauty. And here’s the good part: Just as the duration of happiness is tied to the duration of the circumstance, joy, both in intensity and longevity, is tied absolutely to the depth and duration of beauty.
For example, if drinking a nice cup of coffee makes you happy, that’s good, but only for a little while. But if, while drinking that cup of coffee, you come to enjoy the beauty of friendship, you’ll tap into something much more lasting.
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We go through the day, using carefully honed strategies to attract bits and pieces of happiness, all in an attempt to hold at bay the truth that gnaws at us from inside. And here it is. This world, with its demands and complexities, its consistent injustices, its decay and brokenness, appears to be an invincible storm progressively eroding our optimism about life. And, sensing we can do little to stop the erosion, we convince ourselves that little shots of happiness — intentional indulgences — can get us through the day. For a time, this works. At least until the day when all the little things we have programmed to bring happiness don’t anymore. Then we’re at risk because, as we’ve seen, too many of us “up the ante” and turn to those fountains of unrighteous excitement that seductively offer spiced living while ruining our lives.
So, I have a suggestion. What if, in seeking happiness, we are looking for the wrong thing? What if happiness turns out to be like salt water to the thirsty? What if happiness really doesn’t satisfy our longing, but only serves to increase our need for more and more of it?
I have experienced this over and over throughout my life. I bet I’m not the only one tempted every day to find a new spigot of excitement that will infuse my life with doses of happiness. But I believe there is a better way.
I believe happiness, while fun when it happens, isn’t worth pursuing. On the other hand, joy is. While
Joy is the sense of well-being that permeates our souls as we appreciate beauty around us. For me, life is worth living and actually satisfying because I am constantly being refreshed by those sources of beauty that cannot be eroded by circumstance. Loving my wife comes immediately to mind, as does the joy I gain from my wonderful children.
Sure, circumstances flood our existence, bringing sadness and pain in varying amounts. Yet, in seeking to see the beauty of love, the joy of the lives we are blessed to live together, the smiles, hugs, trust and mutual respect we share — in seeking beauty rather than happiness — we find the joy that is not diminished by adverse circumstances. In the midst of pain, sadness and disappointment, there can be undiminished joy. So, stop chasing after happiness and instead look for beauty. Look for meaning, significance and purpose in life. You will find that beauty is found in all the good places — in family, friendship, creation, sharing great food and wine with friends, taking a walk hand in hand, and even a tearful goodbye.
Understand these for what they are — previews of heaven, meant to remind us that we were never meant to be content with what the circumstances of this life can provide us. As those created in God’s image, we are meant to live above the circumstances of life and find our identity and greatest satisfaction in living in harmony with our maker.
Local resident David Hegg is senior pastor of Grace Baptist Church. “Ethically Speaking” appears Sundays.
