Helm Vision Group is pleased to introduce laser cataract surgery to the Santa Clarita Valley and surrounding communities.
A blade-free procedure, laser cataract surgery is precise and predictable, resulting in an all new level of customized patient care. Our Swiss-engineered Ziemer FEMTO LDV ZS laser applies less energy, decreasing inflammation and enabling a faster healing time, which results in a more gentle experience. The finest care available for your eyes is here at Helm Vision Group. Schedule an appointment with us today to find out more about blade-free cataract surgery and the FEMTO LDV ZS laser system.
A Diverse Selection of Craft Classes Await You
By Alicia Doyle Sunday Signal Staff Writer
Santa Clarita has blossomed into a vibrant hub for craft enthusiasts of all ages, offering an array of hands-on classes and workshops that blend creativity with community.
From rustic DIY wood sign workshops at Board & Brush to dynamic art sessions at local centers like ARTree Community Arts Center, the city provides a welcoming space for people of all ages to explore their artistic skills.
Whether you’re a beginner eager to learn or a seasoned crafter looking to refine your artistry, Santa Clarita’s diverse craft classes invite you to create, connect and express your unique vision in a supportive environment.
Board & Brush
At Board & Brush in Santa Clarita, “we marry the joy of wine and paint with the classic timelessness of wooden signs,” according to owner Amy Kwok.
“Our instructor-led DIY wood sign workshops allow you to combine your creativity and willingness to learn new skills. We provide you with the instruction, materials and design for you to distress, sand, stain, paint and customize your personalized piece of art.”
Board & Brush is located in Old Town Newhall on Main Street. Beer and wine are available for purchase in the studio; BYOB is not permitted, and no one under 21 is allowed in the studio at any time.
How does it work? Start by viewing the calendar and registering for a class that works for you — and your friends and family if you’re going as a group. You can also look for a workshop that features the type of project you’d like to create. Then, browse through the gallery of hundreds of designs, and choose which one you’d like to create in your upcoming workshop.
Workshops start on time, so you’ll want to arrive early. You can start thinking about the creative possibilities ahead, take photos with friends, and enjoy your favorite beverage.
During the workshop, you’ll be guided by expert instructors throughout each step — sanding, distressing, staining, painting your stencil, and waxing. The workshop is typically about three hours long.
The Purple Planet Creative Space’s splatter room gives guests a designated space to splatter paint into artistic creations. PHOTO COURTESY PURPLE PLANET CREATIVE SPACE
The Purple Planet Creative Space also offers Crochet & Knitting Coaching.
The Creative Ko. offers a range of activities with a focus “on fostering creativity and community engagement.” PHOTO COURTESY CREATIVE KO.
“We mean it when we say that no experience is necessary – our instructors are there to help turn you into a DIY expert,” Kwok said. “Now that your beautiful farmhouse-inspired project is complete, you’ll take it home to find the perfect spot to display it.”
Board & Brush is located at 24417 Main Street, Newhall. For more information, call (661) 202-3044; or visit boardandbrush.com/santaclarita.
The Creative Ko.
Open on Fridays and weekends, The Creative Ko. is a craft workshop that offers a range of activities with a focus “on fostering creativity and community engagement.”
In the slime workshop, guests “dive into a world of gooey, stretchy and endlessly entertaining fun” as they create their very own slime masterpieces. Slime-making kits are “carefully curated” to bring joy, creativity and a “touch of enchantment” to your DIY experience.
Those interested in making a fairy/gnome garden can “create enchanting memories and cultivate whimsical wonders” through the activity of planting a garden of this nature.
For those who like to paint — whether you’re a
seasoned artist or a novice explorer of the brush — painting activities promise “to unleash your creativity and ignite your imagination.”
Walk-ins are welcome for all activities at any time during business hours. However, since Mondays through Thursdays are reserved for private events, it’s recommended for guests to call and doublecheck that there are no conflicts on the particular day you’re interested
The Creative Ko. is located at 24510 Town Center Dr., #170, Valencia. For more information, call (661) 753-3306; or visit www.thecreativeko.com.
Purple Planet Creative Space
At Purple Planet Creative Space, offerings include a Second Saturday Stitchers & Crafters Meetup group, a Kids Crochet Skill Builder class, a Kids Stitcher Hangout, Crochet & Knitting Coaching for Adults, Crochet 101, a Punch Needle Mug Rug class, a Let’s Knit a Hat class, and a Big Kids Drawing & Watercolor class.
Purple Planet also offers after school classes at Dixie Canyon Community Center that include drawing, painting, sculpture, mixed media, paper crafts and seasonal crafts. These classes are for
See CRAFTS, page 16
We All Scream for Ice Cream!
By Michele E. Buttelman Signal Staff Writer
It’s summer and the time of year when our thoughts turn to ice cream. The Santa Clarita Valley many great places to satisfy the urge for sweet, creamy ice cream and frozen yogurt.
Latest Ice Cream Survey
The International Dairy Foods Association recently asked more than 2,200 American adults for their take on flavors, toppings and other ice cream preferences.
The scoop on the survey finds that 97% of Americans love or like ice cream. While traditional ice cream flavors still dominate, newer flavors like Butter Pecan and Cookie Dough are shaking up the top five. According to the survey, America’s favorite flavor is Vanilla, with Chocolate and Strawberry coming in as second and third top choices.
America’s top 10 favorite ice cream flavors:
• Vanilla
• Chocolate
• Strawberry
• Butter Pecan
• Cookie Dough
• Cookies and Cream
• Mint Chocolate Chip
• Chocolate Chip
• Rocky Road
• Peanut Butter/PB Cup
However, when Americans are pressed to list their number one favorite flavor of ice cream, Mint Chocolate Chip suddenly bursts into the top three.
Hot fudge, whipped cream, and caramel sauce are the top three most popular ice cream toppings selected from among 20 options.
Americans also tend to prefer bowls or waffle cones, only one-in-ten say straight out of the carton
is their favorite method of consumption. Ice Cream Trends
Ice cream trends continue to evolve with many consumers seeking out artisanal, homemade ice cream stores offering unique and different flavors.
A few popular trending flavors are:
• Chile Lime Mango
• Nutella Cookie Crunch
• Coffee Caramel Crunch
• Lemon Poppy Seed
• Earl Grey Raspberry Stracciatella
• Saffron
The winning ice cream products in IDFA’s annual Innovative Ice Cream Flavor Competition in 2025 were Lavender Lemon Butter Cookie by Kent Precision Foods Group, Brownie Batter Cookie Dough by Hudsonville Ice Cream and Dubai Bar Bliss by IRCA Group.
Of course, Dubai Chocolate is all the rage now, with Costco recently getting into the act selling Dubai Chocolate ice cream bars this summer and its latest offering, hitting stores in the last few weeks, the new La Menorquina Mini Dubai Chocolate Style Ice Cream Sandwich.
No More Artificial Colors
A new voluntary effort led by the International Dairy Foods Association in partnership with America’s ice cream makers promises to eliminate certified artificial colors from ice cream products made with real milk by Dec. 31, 2027.
With this effort, dozens of U.S. ice cream companies are pledging to eliminate the use of certified artificial colors Red 3, Red 40, Green 3, Blue 1, Blue 2, Yellow 5 and Yellow 6 from their ice cream and frozen dairy desserts by 2028. The Commitment represents companies making more than 90% of the ice cream volume sold in the United States.
Many commercial ice cream makers have already phased out certified artificial colors and many others are working with suppliers to phase them out by 2028 in compliance with this effort.
Ice Cream for Breakfast
National Ice Cream for Breakfast Day is an annual celebration that encourages people to enjoy ice cream as their first meal of the day. It typically falls on the first Saturday in February. However, it sounds like a good idea to me to celebrate this idea more often. Maybe every week. Here’s an easy way to incorporate ice cream for breakfast.
Ice Cream for Breakfast Day French Toast
8 slices bread
2 cups ice cream any flavor
Butter for frying
Maple syrup optional
Berries optional
Melt ice cream in the microwave in 30-second increments until fully melted. Transfer to a plate.
Place bread into the ice cream and turn to coat both sides.
Using low heat, melt butter in a pan. Place bread slices onto the pan, making sure not to over-crowd.
After 1-2 minutes, or when golden, flip bread and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
Serve with syrup and fresh berries.
Any ice cream flavor can be used to make Ice Cream French Toast.
It’s summer. In the Santa Clarita Valley we have another name for summer. Ant Season. As soon as the mercury starts to climb the ants start to invade. Cat food bowls, dishes left in the sink, an open box of Girl Scout cookies … if you leave it out, they will come.
Many people with small children and pets are concerned about using harsh chemicals or insecticides to rid the home of pests. Others are interested in using “natural” earth-friendly means of subduing the invaders.
Ask anyone, there are dozens of “sure-fire” home remedies in the war against ants. Among the most popular are:
Cinnamon Sprinkle cinnamon along entry point to keep ants away.
Essential Oils Use essential oils such as peppermint, lemongrass, citrus oil or tea tree oil to make an ant-repellent spray. The oils will disrupt the ant’s sense of smell which they use to communication with other ants. They will wander aimlessly around and then stop visiting your “smelly” house. Fill a
small spray bottle with water and add 15 to 20 drops of the essential oil. Spray on ant trails.
Vinegar Try white vinegar and water. Mix a 50/50 solution of water and vinegar in a spray bottle and zap the ants with the spray. As a deterrent spray around doorways, windowsills and other ant entry points. Use of vinegar to clean floors, windows and countertops also works as a lasting deterrent to your ant problem. Ants are less likely to travel on surfaces where vinegar has been used.
Diatomaceous earth Food-grade diatomaceous earth (not the stuff that goes in your pool filter) is an effective insecticide that doesn’t harm humans or pets. When insects walk on the powder tiny fossil shards scratch the ants causing their bodies to dry out and they die. Sprinkle the powder along your baseboards, windowsills, and around the perimeter of your house to kill ants. It is best to use a mask when handling diatomaceous earth. The powder isn’t harmful when ingested but the tiny particles can be hard on your lungs. Diatomaceous earth needs to stay dry. It becomes ineffective when it gets wet.
Dish soap and water Mix one-part dish soap and two parts water in a spray bottle. Spray ants on sight
Nwith the mixture. You can also set out shallow dishes of soapy water which acts as an insecticide as the ants come in contact with it as they seek sources of water.
Dry Bay Leaves Place an open container of bay leaves next to the goods in your pantry to keep the ants “at bay.”
Comet or Ajax Cleanser Powdered Ajax or Comet cleanser will keep ants from entering your home if sprinkled around entry points.
Baking Soda Traps made with baking soda and powdered sugar in equal parts can lure ants to their doom. The baking soda kills the ants when their body chemistry reacts with the baking soda that is ingested with the sugar. In addition, this might also help kill ants in the nest, when the queen and other ants consume it.
Cornmeal Spread cornmeal where the ants will find it and carry it back to the nest for everyone to eat. Once eaten the cornmeal will swell inside the ants and they die.
Whatever method works best know that you are not alone in your war with ants. The ants are here, everyone to your battle stations!
What attracts pests to your home?
o homeowner wants pests to invade their homes or their yards. However, it’s easy for pests to find their way into and around a home. In fact, certain conditions may be inviting pests to a property.
Garbage Piles of garbage offer food and shelter to pests. Removing garbage piles and cleaning up food waste promptly can make a difference.
Stagnant water Mosquitoes breed in
standing water, which is water not affected by waves, current or a filtration system. Anywhere water has pooled, mosquitoes may be breeding.
Moisture or standing water Additional sources of water and moisture may attract pests like gnats, mosquitoes, stink bugs, and certain spiders. Damp areas are of particular concern, especially when combined with darkness.
Clogged gutters Ignoring clogged
gutters can lead to pest problems.
Mice, squirrels, birds, ants, and spiders may be attracted to damp leaves in clogged gutters. Leaves offer shelter, nesting material and possible food sources of insect life.
Dirty dishes and indoor trash Leaving food-covered dishes in the sink invites pests. Leftover food attracts cockroaches, flies, ants, and more. Even if time is short, it’s best to wash dishes or load them into the dishwasher. Overflowing trash also draws pests
into a home.
Clutter Clutter provides hiding places for all sorts of rodents and insects, which can hide out in cluttered areas and remain comfortable. Going room to room and clearing out extraneous items may help reduce pest populations. Focus on the garage and basement, in particular.
Pests are attracted to certain conditions, and remedying these issues can help reduce pest infestations. (MC)
FROM THE CITY MANAGER
Join Us for the 30th Annual River Rally Cleanup
“Unless someone like you cares a whole awful lot, nothing is going to get better. It’s not.”
By Ken Striplin Santa Clarita City Manager
The heartbeat of a healthy community lies not just in its people but in how it cares for the natural spaces that surround it. Here in Santa Clarita, we are fortunate to have one of the last natural, free-flowing river systems in Southern California running through our City. The Santa Clara River is not only a vital wildlife corridor, but also plays a critical role in replenishing our local groundwater supply. For the past three decades, Santa Clarita residents have joined together to preserve this natural treasure through a special event that embodies the true spirit of community and conservation.
I’m proud to once again invite you to join us for the 30th Annual River Rally Cleanup and Environmental Expo happening on Saturday, September 20, beginning at 8 a.m. This year’s cleanup will focus on the riverbed area along Wiley Canyon Road, near the Via Princessa Bridge and east of Orchard Village Road. Whether you’re a firsttime volunteer or a seasoned participant, this event is a meaningful opportunity to give back to the environment in a hands-on, impactful way.
Last year alone, 1,189 volunteers came out to help and collectively removed 12,555 pounds of trash and debris from the riverbed. That impressive effort brought the event’s cumulative total to nearly half a million pounds of waste removed — 499,651 pounds, to be exact. These numbers are a testament to what we can achieve when we come together with a shared purpose. Of course, safety is a top priority. All
— Dr. Seuss
participating volunteers are required to wear closed-toe shoes and attire suitable for walking through uneven terrain. We also encourage everyone to wear sunscreen, bring a reusable water bottle and wear a hat. In addition to the riverbed cleanup, the Environmental Expo is an exciting part of the morning featuring interactive booths and displays from local community groups, government agencies and nonprofit organizations. It’s a great chance to learn more about sustainability, water conservation, recycling and the various ways we can make eco-conscious choices in our everyday lives.
To participate, pre-registration is required by Thursday, September 19. Just visit GreenSantaClarita.com/Events to reserve your spot. All registered volunteers will receive important event details, including a special bonus: a free Santa Clarita Transit day pass for the day of the event — Saturday, September 20. Leave your car at home and ride with ease. Be sure to check your registration confirmation email for your promo code and instructions. If you have any questions about the event or would like more information on water quality and conservation, please visit GreenSantaClarita.com. Let’s come together to make this 30th River Rally the most impactful one yet. I look forward to seeing you out there on September 20, gloves on, sleeves rolled up and ready to make a difference.
Ken Striplin is the City Manager of Santa Clarita and can be reached at kstriplin@santaclarita.gov.
Sustainable Living With: Episode Four Presents Podcasts
and Editorial series
Exploring where and how we live and celebrating the people and fabric of the Santa Clarita Valley.
Ana Fonseca President and CEO Logix Federal Credit Union
Matt Carpenter Senior VP of Environmental Resources FivePoint
Jonathan Parfrey Founder and Executive Director Climate Resolve
Find us here: https://bit.ly/community-inspired
The Latest News on What’s Happening In Hollywood
By Tony Rizzo
Two-time Oscar winner Michael Douglas (a Best Actor award for “Wall Street” and another for being the producer of “One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest”), is talking retiring at 80. At the Karlovy Vary International Film Festival, he recently stated that he has no plans to act again unless “something special came up.” He explained, “I had been working pretty hard for almost 60 years, and I did not want to be one of those people who dropped dead on the set.”
house.” I waited at the Plaza Hotel in NYC, met him, and took a few pictures. He was friendly, kind, and had “movie star” written all over him.
Michael last starred in Apple TV+’s miniseries “Franklin.” “Looking Through Water,” which he shot back in 2023 with his son, Cameron Douglas, and David Morse (of “St. Elsewhere” fame), will finally open this summer.
August 3-7, 2025
I told Michael of our previous meeting when we met again on the set of “The Streets of San Francisco” while I was visiting his co-star, my friend Richard Hatch, in 1976.
comedy/mystery/thriller “Atrabilious,” which Baldwin shot in 2022 with Whoopi Goldberg and Jeffrey Wright, was released on July 18. “Match Game,” which he formerly hosted on ABC from 2016-2021, returned on July 23 but with Martin Short as the new host.
The fourth “Narnia” film in the franchise will be directed by Greta Gerwig. (She directed “Barbie” to a $1.447-billion gross.) She was also an uncredited writer on “Snow White,” which only grossed $205.7 million.
In 1969, I read that Kirk Douglas’ son was making his debut in the “The Experiment,” a television play episode from the drama series “CBS Play-
Alec Baldwin hasn’t recovered from the backlash of what happened on the set of “Rust.” The film released in May and only grossed $26,831. The
Lt Frank Drebin Jr (Liam Neeson) follows in his father ’s footsteps n THE NAKED GUN
TO G E T H E R E 1:40 4:20 7:00
Unnatural force threatens to corrupt Time and Mill e s lives, their ove and their flesh
30
T H E FA N TA S T I C F O U R: F I R S T S T E P S C Sun: 10:20 1:15 4:00 7:10; Mon to Thu 1:15 4:00 7:10
Forced to ba ance their roles as heroes with the strength of their family bond, The Fantastic Four must defend Ear th from a ravenous space god
D ROW N I N G D RY Sun 10:00 AM
Mixed mar tial ar ts competitor Lukas has ust defeated his opponent and celebrates backstage, sett ng the scene for a comb nation of communa bonding and loom ng horrors
S U P E R M A N C Sun: 10:10 12 50 4:10 7:10; Mon to Thu: 12:50 4:10 7 10
DC Studios’ first feature film to h t the b g screen, is set to soar nto theaters worldwide this summer from Warner Bros.
J U R A S S I C WO R L D R E B I R T H C Sun to Thu: 1:10 4:10 7:15
Three colossa creatures ho d the key to a drug that wi l bring miraculous ife -saving benefits to humankind
F1 T H E M OV I E C Sun to Tue: 12:50 3:50 7:00; Wed 3:50 PM; Thu: 12:50 3:50 7:00 Ruben convinces Sonny to come back to
In addition to directing “The Chronicles of Narnia: The Magician’s Nephew,” Gerwig is acting in “Jay Kelly,” a coming-of-age/comedy-drama starring George Clooney, Adam Sandler, Billy Crudup and Laura Dern. It opens in November.
Top 7 Movies
July 28, 2025
1. Superman (PG-13) David Corenswet, Rachel Brosnahan
2. Jurassic World: Rebirth (PG13) Scarlett Johansson, Mahershala Ali
3. I Know What You Did Last Summer (R) Madelyn Cline, Chase Sui Wonders
4. Smurfs (PG) Rihanna, James Corden
5. F1: The Movie (PG-13) Brad Pitt, Damson Idris
6. How to Train Your Dragon (PG) Mason Thames, Nico Parker
Michael Douglas (Upcoming in “Looking Through Water”) Depositphotos
Robert Irwin, the 21-year-old son of Steve Irwin (aka “The Crocodile Hunter” who died in 2007 after being stung by a sting ray), currently runs the Australian Zoo. When he visited the Jeffy Pavilion in Coffs Harbor on the east coast of Australia and ordered a salad for lunch, word spread that he was there, and he was besieged by fans wanting selfies and autographs.
After satisfying them all, Robert grabbed his uneaten salad and made for home. The next day, he realized that he hadn’t pay for his lunch. He called them and promised to pay, but they just laughed and requested a good review. Irwin told his fans, “Today is not the day I start my life of crime.” The restaurant was then flooded with new customers.
Robert will compete in season 34 of “Dancing with the Stars,” where his sister, Bindi Irwin, won her mirror ball in 2015. Now if only he had a crocodile as his dance partner!
The Season of Sensational Salads
The warmer months mean one thing: salad season is officially here. With fresh flavors abounding, now is the perfect opportunity to tap into an unexpected veggie: celery.
Celery is packed with flavor and low in calories, making it a smart choice for snacking and cooking a variety of meals throughout the day. Made up of 95% water, it's also naturally hydrating and high in fiber to keep you feeling full and refreshed. Available year-round, an option like Dandy Celery from Duda Farm Fresh Foods redefines what celery can be - crispier, sweeter and less stringy - through a legacy of quality, innovation and consistency in celery cultivation since 1926.
This Fresh Salad with Grilled Strawberries and Celery, Berries and Burrata, for example, combines celery with other fresh, warm-weather favorites like strawberries, blackberries, blueberries and raspberries on a bed of arugula — topped with a sweet, citrusy dressing — for a refreshing, nourishing lunch or dinner.
Or for an Asian twist, try this Thai Lime Chicken Salad, which features celery, carrots, cucumber and poached chicken breast over a Jasmine rice base with an Asian-inspired dressing that brings a touch of heat to the table.
Find more recipes for salad season and beyond at DudaFresh.com.
Fresh Salad with Grilled Strawberries and Celery, Berries and Burrata
Servings 2
Salad
4 sticks Dandy Celery, divided
4 strawberries, cut in half
1 handful blackberries blueberries raspberries
1 medium burrata ball, cut in half
3 cups arugula
1 handful hemp seeds
Dressing
3 tablespoons orange juice
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1 1/2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
3 tablespoons olive oil
1 pinch sea salt
and Celery, Berries and Burrata
Using grill pan or directly on grill, cook two celery sticks and strawberries until soft with grill marks on either side.
While celery and strawberries grill, make dressing. In jar, mix orange juice, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, honey, olive oil and salt.
Cut grilled and remaining raw celery sticks at angle into 1/4-inch pieces.
In mixing bowl, toss celery, strawberries, blackberries, blueberries, raspberries, burrata, arugula and hemp seeds with dressing. Mix well.
Thai Lime Chicken Salad
Servings 4
4 stalks Dandy Celery, sliced on bias
1 cucumber, split, seeded and sliced on bias
2 carrots, peeled and julienned
2 cups Jasmine rice, cooked and cooled slightly
1 bunch scallions, green section finely chopped and white ends julienned
2 cups poached chicken breast, shredded
3 tablespoons avocado seed oil
3 tablespoons rice vinegar
1 tablespoon palm sugar
2 tablespoons toasted sesame oil
2 tablespoons lime juice
2 tablespoons tamari
1 tablespoon fish sauce
1/2 teaspoon crushed chili flakes (optional) salt, to taste pepper, to taste
1 cup roasted peanuts or cashews, crushed
1 cup fresh cilantro sprigs
4 lime wedges
In medium bowl, combine celery, cucumbers, carrots, cooked rice, scallions and shredded chicken.
In another bowl, whisk avocado seed oil, rice vinegar, palm sugar, sesame oil, lime juice, tamari, fish sauce and chili flakes, if desired, until sugar is dissolved. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper, to taste.
Pour mixture over celery and shredded chicken mixture; toss to mix.
To serve, portion out salad and top with crushed nuts, cilantro sprigs and lime wedges.
Fresh Salad with Grilled Strawberries
Thai Lime Chicken Salad
The Impact of AI on Senior Health Care Experiences
Artificial intelligence (AI) continues to change the world. The “Logic Theorist” program, created by Herbert A. Simon and Allen Newell in 1955, which was designed to prove mathematical theorems, is widely considered to be the first AI program. Today, AI is employed to answer questions, solve problems and even create artwork.
AI can serve amazing purposes in health care settings. Though AI can benefit persons of all ages, seniors may find it especially improves their health care experience.
Here are some ways AI can enhance seniors’ quality of life, independence and support systems.
Monitoring
AI-powered systems can be used to monitor vital signs like heart rate, oxygen levels and blood pressure. Some wearables even can detect irregular heartbeats or other anomalies and alert individuals or caregivers.
Early Detection
Echelon Health says AI can be invaluable in the early detection of illnesses by predicting risk factors in patients. AI can be utilized with the first
levels of screening, which may detect the smallest changes that could highlight underlying issues. Research has shown AI can detect serious diseases such as lung cancer or heart disease earlier to offer patients a better chance of effective treatment before diseases progress.
Predictive Analytics
Those with a particular health condition can rely on AI to predict the likelihood of certain health events, like heart attacks or stroke, by analyzing data and genetic information. This allows doctors to take proactive approaches to adjusting treatment plans.
Chronic Disease Management
The integration of AI into chronic disease management can enhance patient care efficiency and lead to optimized treatment strategies, says the National Institutes of Health. AI can monitor data patterns that offer insight into disease progression and can
help seniors manage medications by providing reminders, tracking compliance and dispensing correct dosages.
Smart Home Technology
A person’s environment impacts his or her health. AI-powered devices can automate tasks like adjusting interior temperatures to safe levels, turn on lights for safer navigation, turn off appliances if they have been left unattended, and offer additional safety features like fall detection. This may enable seniors to live securely and independently longer.
Daily Tasks
In addition to specific disease management, AI can be used to create healthy meal plans and schedule appointments. This can promote autonomy and reduce reliance on helpers or caregivers.
Artificial intelligence is infiltrating daily life in many ways. In health care settings, AI benefits seniors in many different ways.(MC)
Daily Dietary Habits that Can Benefit Seniors for the Long Haul
Food fuels the body throughout the day, ideally providing the energy people need to make the most of each day. But the foods people eat are more than just fuel. Indeed, a delicious meal is hard to forget, and that underscores how significant a variable flavor can be when people choose the foods they eat.
Flavor is certainly important when choosing and preparing meals, but it cannot be the only variable that determines what people eat. That’s true for everyone, and especially notable for seniors. Age-related changes to the body should affect seniors’ approach to diet.
The National Council on Aging notes that metabolism slows as bodies grow older, which means seniors require fewer calories to fuel their daily activities than they needed when they were younger. That’s just one of the many notable things seniors should consider when designing their daily diets.
Plan a well-rounded diet School children learn the basic food groups as youngsters, and it’s good for seniors to keep those long-ago lessons in mind when planning their daily diets. The American Heart Association notes the importance of incorporating fruits, vegetables, whole grains, dairy, and proteins into daily diets.
In regard to dairy, the AHA advises consuming the equivalent of three cups of low-fat (1%) or fat-free dairy each day. When picking a protein source, the AHA identifies eggs, fish, lean meat, legumes, nuts, and poultry as healthy and protein-rich foods. Even polyunsaturated and monounsaturated oils like olive oil and peanut oil can be healthy.
Resolve to read more labels Ag-
ing adults need not study nutrition to identify what they’re putting into their bodies each time they take a bite.
The NCOA notes that food labels are useful sources of information that can indicate how much fat, sodium and added sugars are in a given item. Seniors should be especially vigilant when trying to avoid foods that contain a lot of added sugars, which can contribute to weight gain. That’s notable given seniors’ naturally slower metabolisms.
Practice portion control It’s not necessarily the foods seniors eat but how much they eat that can derail their efforts to maintain their overall health. Seniors’ recommended daily calorie intake varies by both gender and activity levels.
Guidelines from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services notes women 61 and over who are moderately physically active should consume roughly 1,800 calories per day, while those living an active lifestyle are advised to eat around 2,000 calories per day.
Moderately active men age 66 and older are advised to eat 2,400 calories per day, while active men between the ages of 61 and 75 should aim for 2,600 calories per day. When reading food labels, pay attention to calories per serving, as that can act as a useful guide to control portions. The National Institute on
Aging recognizes it can be hard to control portion sizes when dining out, and recommends seniors share an entrée or order from the appetizers menu when picking their main course. The right daily dietary habits can help seniors live longer, healthier and happier lives, and picking the right foods does not require sacrificing flavor. (MC)
Flavor is certainly important when choosing and preparing meals, but it cannot be the only variable that determines what people eat.
What to Expect of Adding an In-Law Suite
The modern real estate market has led millions of aspiring home buyers to reconsider their approach to buying a home. Low inventory has led to high home prices. When paired with mortgage interest rates that have remained north of 6% for years, the high sticker price of homes has made many buyers wonder if homeownership is simply beyond their means. It’s impossible to know if or when home prices will come down, but some buyers have chosen to seek homes that can accommodate multiple generations. According to the Pew Research Center, the share of multigenerational homes rose from 7% in 1971 to 18% in 2021.
A multitude of factors have contributed to that increase, and housing affordability is one such variable. In 2024, researchers studying multigenerational households at the Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania noted that housing affordability declined considerably in recent years but also had been on the decline for decades.
As homes become less affordable, the number of multigenerational households tends to increase, and
that’s something modern buyers can keep in mind as they look for a home. In-law suites that accommodate multigenerational households can provide a pathway to homeownership for buyers who otherwise may be priced out of the market. Buyers considering homes with an in-law suite or those who want to add one to their existing homes can familiarize themselves with these convenient and potentially cost-saving features.
A Separate Entrance
Whether you’re looking for a home with an in-law suite or hoping to add one on to your existing home, a separate entrance for suite residents can allow them to come and go as they please. That sense of independence is significant. In addition, a separate entrance can make a home seem less like a multigenerational residence, which at times can feel crowded, and more like a single-generation home. That can afford all residents a little more peace and quiet in a typical day.
Possible Tax Increase if Adding On
As with any addition to a home, adding an in-law suite to an existing home is likely to result in an increase
in-law
or those who want to add one to their existing homes can familiarize themselves with these convenient and potentially cost-saving features.
in homeowners’ property taxes. The amount of that increase is contingent upon variables unique to each residence, like location and the size of the addition.
When shopping for homes with existing in-law suites, buyers can request existing tax information so they are not surprised by the number like they might be if they add on to an existing home. Despite that, it might still be in prospective buyers’ best interest to add on to an existing property and pay the additional taxes than it would to buy a new home.
Include Important Features
An in-law suite should include its own private bathroom, a washroom for a washer and dryer and a kitchen or kitchenette. If everyone in a mul-
tigenerational household is forced to use the same bathrooms, washers and dryers, and kitchens, then the home might begin to feel cramped rather quickly.
Off-Street Parking
Though it might not affect the ambiance within the in-law suite itself, an off-street parking spot is a convenience residents will appreciate. Such a space will allow residents to come and go as they please and save them the headache of moving their vehicles for snow plows and street cleaners. In-law suites could be an in-demand feature as more homeowners and aspiring buyers seek to reduce housing costs by embracing multigenerational living arrangements. (MC)
Buyers considering homes with an
suite
Drainage is Crucial to Outdoor Spaces
When planning outdoor spaces, it is easy to focus on aesthetics. However, homeowners must carefully consider the impact these modifications may have on the landscape. You do not want to compromise the integrity of the surrounding home and other structures.
Outdoor living spaces can be welcoming areas to spend time in nature. Such spaces expand the possibilities for entertaining, as they tend to have more room for guests than home interiors, and they enable people to enjoy sunshine, fresh air and the sounds and sights of wildlife in relaxing settings. When planning outdoor living areas, homeowners must not underestimate the significance of drainage.
Patios, pergolas, decks and landscaping can increase comfort and convenience for homeowners. In fact, connection to the outdoors ranked high on the top 10 list of design drivers in “The Future of Home Design,” a survey conducted by the New Home Trends Institute in collaboration with Pro Builder.
Fifty-eight percent of survey respondents said connection to the outdoors will be an important influence on their design choices in the years to come.
When planning outdoor living spaces, it is easy to focus on aesthetic appeal and the finished project. But homeowners must carefully consider the impact these modifications will have on the landscape, particularly how they will affect drainage so it will not compromise the integrity of the new design nor impact the surrounding home and other structures.
According to Kelly Masonry in Pennsylvania, without proper drainage, water can accumulate and that can lead to various issues. Here’s a
more in-depth look at why drainage is crucial when planning outdoor living areas.
Drainage Prevents Water Damage
When water is allowed to collect on patios and in and around hardscaping features, it can cause the materials to deteriorate over the years. Pavers or stones may shift, crack or become discolored, eventually becoming less safe.
Drainage reduces Accessibility Issues and Safety Hazards
Pooling water can make hard surfaces slippery, possibly leading to falls and other accidents. It also can make lawns soggy and muddy, which can limit easy access to areas of the yard.
Drainage Reduces Soil Erosion
Water can cause erosion of surrounding soil, leading to uneven surfaces. Erosion also may threaten the stability of nearby structures.
Drainage Deters Water Infiltration
Water has a way of finding cracks and crevices and thus entering structures. Rainwater that is not properly directed away from a home may eventually seep into the foundation, causing anything from structural damage to mold and mildew to making damp areas conducive to pests.
Homeowners have different options when it comes to drainage in their outdoor living areas. Masonry experts will design patios with a slight slope
to allow water to naturally flow away from the surface toward drainage areas. Together with well-placed gutters and downspouts, water can be directed away from the home.
Homeowners also might want to consider two different types of drain systems. French drains are a system that involves a trench filled with perforated pipe and gravel to allow water to drain naturally from the yard, according to the Home Depot. French drains can redirect water away from living areas. Channel drains are another type of system. Central Turf & Irrigation Supply says channel drains are perimeter drains around patios and other hardscaping that act as an barrier to prevent water from going where it isn’t desired. They are narrow trenches with a grate on top so that water enters and flows away.
Drainage is an essential consideration when planning outdoor living areas. Homeowners must use slope, drains and even vegetation to mitigate water issues on a property. (MC)
661.298.0261
When planning outdoor living areas, homeowners must not underestimate the significance of drainage.
Seven Tips for Safe Summer Driving
Between increased road travel traffic, warmer pavement, higher rates of construction and more, summer driving comes with a litany of potential safety hazards. However, knowing the condition of one of your vehicle’s most important safety components — the tires — can help mitigate risks. After all, it’s the only piece of your vehicle that makes contact with the road.
Before setting out consider this advice from America’s Tire experts to help drivers like you stay safe on the road this summer.
Rotate Regularly Tires should be rotated every 6,000 miles, or earlier if uneven wear develops. A good rule of thumb is to have your tires rotated every other oil change. If you can’t remember when your tires were last rotated, book an appointment to ensure maximum handling, traction and stopping power.
Replace Aging Tires As tires age, the rubber becomes harder and brittle, increasing the risk of
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grades kindergarten through 5th, with TK allowed mid-year and spring semester.
A splatter room, now open and available for walk-ins and parties, gives guests a designated space to splatter paint into artistic creations.
“We encourage everyone to discover their own unique creativity by
failure on the road. Typically, experts recommend replacing any tire that’s more than 6 years old. To check the age of your tires, look for the DOT number stamped on its sidewall. If you need assistance finding new tires, America’s Tire’s online tire recommendation tool, Treadwell, combines millions of data points from tire safety checks and independent testing on tires from all major manufacturers.
Check Pressure Often Low tire pressure can lead to poor handling, lower gas mileage and excessive wear. At least once a month check the air pressure to ensure it meets the manufacturer’s recommendations, which can be found in your owner’s manual or on a sticker in your vehicle’s driver side door jamb. Beware of the impact bumps and temperature changes have on air pressure.
Ensure Tires are Aligned Wheel alignments adjust the direction your tires point to prevent irregular wear and improve steering. It may be time to have your alignment checked if you notice steering wheel
teaching basic art concepts and providing creative tools,” according to Sofia Pinelli, artist, owner and creative director. “Through a combination of directed projects and process art, we offer the opportunity to explore and discover the artist within.”
Purple Planet Creative Space is located at 22722 Lyons Avenue, Old Town Newhall. For more information, email
vibration, uneven tread wear, your vehicle pulling sideways or an off-center steering wheel while driving straight.
Understand Emergency Equipment
Many newer vehicles now come with tire inflation kits that include puncture-coating sealants and air compressors, or even run-flat tires, instead of a spare. Check what your vehicle is equipped with ahead of taking a trip and consider a roadside assistance plan, which can help with flat repairs and replacements in times of need.
Look Beyond Your Tires In addition to tires, summer provides an opportunity to look at other features of your car that need periodic replacement like rims, windshield wiper blades, lightbulbs and more. For example, windshield wiper blades should be replaced annually, or earlier if heavy streaking occurs. To locate a neighborhood tire store near you, save on in-store wait times on service appointments or shop for wheels and tires, visit AmericasTire.com. (Family Features)
sofia@purpleplanetworkshop.com; or visit www.purpleplanetworkshop.com.
ARTree Community Arts Center
A non-profit arts center, ARTree started in 2010 with a commitment to bringing art opportunities to all ages. Classes teach artistic principles utilizing an active, hands-on approach in small class settings, and the teaching staff of artists brings their expertise and enthusiasm in a wide range of mediums.
Fall classes starting August 25 at ARTree Community Arts Center include Fiber Arts, Drawing & Painting, Mixed Media Mastery, Acrylic Painting, and Comic & Zines.
Free offerings include the Flutterby Open Art Studio, a monthly event that takes place the first Saturday of the month from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Because
the studio space is small, guests are encouraged to register in advance for this event.
Another free program, called Nest, consists of an hour of “mindful, judgment-free” art making on the first Wednesday or Sunday of the month from 1 to 2 p.m. No art expertise is needed in this class, in which mindfulness practices, both in meditation and in art, “can help our ability to regulate our feelings, decrease stress, and focus our attention.”
Nest was developed under the direction of Emily Skelton, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and a Board Certified Art Therapist with over a decade of experience working with youth, teens and adults.
ARTree Community Arts Center is located at 22508 6th Street in Newhall. For more information, call (661) 3839266; or visit www.theartree.org.
PUZZLES
SOLUTIONS
SCV Blues Gem
The Santa Clarita Valley has a gem that deserves more attention: The nonprofit SCV Blues Society, whose motto is “Keeping the Blues Alive,” is both unpretentious and surprisingly good. It hosts jams on the second Sunday of each month, from 5 to 8 p.m. at Club 507, in the American Legion Post in Newhall. You never know who might take the stage. At a recent jam, an outstanding blues singer visiting from Florida brought the house down — just one example of the magic that can happen. What makes these events special is their spirit. It’s all about the music — no politics, no posturing, just pure joy and shared rhythm. It reminds me of a three-day Americana music festival my wife and I attend each year in Taos, New Mexico. We like to joke that the musicians are 80% blue-state and the audience is 80% red-state, but none of that matters. Friendships are formed that transcend politics, religion, background and beliefs. The last night of the festival turns into a big barn dance, so you’d better bring your boots. Back here at home, the Blues Society delivers that same unifying experience. Admission is $5 for members, or $10 for non-members. And if you’ve got the music chops, you might even find yourself on stage. Whether you play or listen, you’ll leave feeling better than when you arrived.
Philip Wasserman Stevenson Ranch
Submit a Letter to the Editor Include name, address & phone. E-mail: letters@signalscv.com.
Outrage Is Outrageous
By David Hegg
Editor’s note: This column was originally published Feb. 23.
If America were a pot of water, we would say we’re steaming, if not already beginning to boil. Anger is everywhere, and – at times – it may be justified. Yet, if we’re brutally honest and playing with open eyes and an open, unbiased mind, we’ll have to agree that anger and outrage have become an epidemic in our day. Where America used to be the “land of the free,” meaning we were free from tyranny, we have now become an army of outrage who define “freedom” as the right to be offended, angry, insulted, caustic, mean-spirited, and downright ugly in our attacks on others. It’s not pretty, and it sure isn’t profitable.
Unless you’ve stopped using our various broadcast media options, you’ve been as stunned as I have watching grown men and women in positions of elected authority screaming their heads off, denigrating others, and even calling their minions to “fight in the streets!”
At the risk of offending some, let’s look at a verse from the writings of the Apostle James. Whether you like the Bible or not, you will find great wisdom in what he taught. His advice was simple: Be quick to hear, slow to speak, and slow to anger, for man’s anger does not work the righteousness of God. And before you jump to the “comments” section to blast me for inserting God into the conversation, be brave enough to hear me out. His advice is pleasing and essential if we are to lead the world and still be a pluralistic nation.
Be quick to hear: We must place a premium on hearing, and by that, I mean listening to all the relevant facts before concluding. Even when we know what someone said and what they meant, there is always the chance we haven’t gotten it right. So, before you opt for outrage, listen again. And, if possible, seek clarity and confirmation. In personal relationships, I find it helpful to use three words before blasting someone for something I think they said or meant: Help me understand. Many times, hearing “the rest of the story” has saved me a truckload of embarrassment.
Be slow to speak: I was in a gift shop in Rhode Island a few years ago and came across a coaster set emblazoned with pithy sayings meant to bring a smile. My favorite was “I love
the sound you make when you stop talking!” Wouldn’t it be great if all of you who love the sound of your voices (or the cleverness of your Facebook posts, tweets and emails) would take time to think before you speak and write? We have become an army of outrage and packaged our discontent in rash outbursts devoid of thoughtful insight, careful assertions, or verifiable facts. We often aim at invective rather than instruction, caustic jabs rather than clarifying correction. Ninety-nine percent of the time, we’d be better off saying nothing than inserting our inane darts into the public conversation. And, if you can’t help yourself, find a local paper and become an opinion columnist! Be slow to anger: James should have put this one first. Yet, if we think about it, the only way to postpone anger for many of us is to listen carefully while restricting the first ugly impulses of our tongues. The idea here is to craft a strategy by which, if a response is needed, it isn’t fueled by outrage but arises out of careful analysis, attention to truth, and a heart to help rather than castigate.
Why do I propose such a strategy? I have never seen anger and outrage, and their fruits, solve a problem. This is especially true when problems arise over time and are incredibly complex. Answers begin with correctly understanding the issues, challenges, and, most importantly, the necessity of cooperation among the many.
I don’t want to live in a surly nation where we actively seek out reasons for outrage. To do so expends our most precious natural resource – our will to make America great – in the worthless activity of personal aggrandizement. Moreover, outrage seldom, if ever, actually scratches our itch. It doesn’t solve anything and still leaves the residue of regret if we’ve any conscience left.
The next time you feel your outrage meter rising, consider this. What do you lose if you don’t lose your cool? What harm will you think if you listen a little longer, speak a little less, and save your outrage for something truly outrageous? If more of us take this path, perhaps our army of outrage will transform into a generation of those who let their lives and accomplishments do the talking.
Local resident David Hegg is senior pastor of Grace Baptist Church. “Ethically Speaking” appears Sundays.
