Horseback Riding in Santa Clarita
By Alicia Doyle Sunday Signal Writer
Santa Clarita’s rolling hills are home to an equestrian world where children learn to bond with their first horse, couples escape for trail rides among riverbeds, and seasoned riders hone their skills in rings and arenas — welcoming anyone who dreams of a life lived one hoofbeat at a time.
Avalon Farms
At Avalon Farms, “we focus on putting the horse and rider together in a balanced, relaxed form of horsemanship,” said Laurel van der Linde, who lives in the Santa Clarita Valley.
She noted that their method of training is “different from the way others might train” in that it’s “applicable to all forms of riding.
“We like to divide between Western and English, but if you know how to stay on a horse with balance, it doesn’t matter — the foundation is the same,” she said, offering the comparison of the various styles of dance, from ballet to modern.
“It’s applicable across all forms if you have a solid foundation and know where your center of gravity is,” she said. “Horses are no different. If you have a solid foundation of balance, you can pick up any other discipline. And the bottom line is, it’s a much safer way to ride if you’re matching your center of gravity to the horse, you’ll never fall off.”
For local residents in-
terested in giving riding a try, “we offer ‘the come on over and try it and see if you like it,’” van der Linde said. “You don’t have to have a horse to come here if you want to learn how to ride the right way.” And if you happen to already have a horse that needs training, “we offer that as well.”
At Avalon Farms, “I teach everything from the ground up,” noted van der Linde, adding that this includes how to clean the horse’s feet and other grooming procedures, as well as how to be safe.
“There’s a whole procedure that you should learn before you get on the horse so you’re safe,” she emphasized.
She added that all this takes place in a “very relaxed environment.
“We work with all age ranges, from kids to adults,” said van der Linde, noting that she loves working with children.
Above all, she considers the relationship between horse and rider “a partnership … it’s a dance.
“It’s the two of you working together to accomplish something — it’s all cooperation, and the hors-
Avalon Farms owner Laurel van der Linde and her Arabian horse Ali Sadidi. PHOTOS BY KATHERINE QUEZADA / THE SIGNAL
From trail rides to hunter/jumper lessons, there are so many options at local equestrian centers.
es respond beautifully.”
Avalon Farms is located at 30841 Gilmour Rd., Santa Clarita, CA 91384. For more information, call (661) 600-3365.
Santa Clarita Valley Equestrian Center
Considered a “full-service equestrian facility,” the Santa Clarita Equestrian Center is able to “effectively accommodate every level rider — from children and adults who’ve never seen a horse up close to expert riders.”
Owned by Scott and Kelly Pointer, the center welcomes walk-in riders six days a week, as well as group lessons that include grooming and tackling with 45 minutes of riding time.
Flat lessons in Western and English are offered Monday through Saturday for $40, with group lessons costing $45. Additionally, private riding lessons are available by appointment only for $60 that includes 30 minutes of riding time.
Featuring boarding, a massive selection of lessons, trail rides, roping, special events, parties and filming opportunities, the Santa Clarita Valley Equestrian Center “has something for everyone.
“We wanted to create a space where the joys of an equestrian lifestyle could be comfortably had by anyone who wanted to benefit from it,” Scott Pointer said. “That’s why we have classes for both kids and adults, special lessons for children on the autism spectrum, really affordable trail rides and special events that get
people off their phones and into nature.”
Surrounded by rolling green hills and steps away from the riverbed, the Santa Clarita Valley Equestrian Center is perfectly positioned for easy access — all while feeling a world away.
“Parents bring the kids here, couples go on first dates here, cousins sign up for summer camp together here — it’s a magical place that encourages authentic connections,” Kelly Pointer added.
The Santa Clarita Valley Equestrian Center is located at 28680 San Francisquito Canyon Rd. in Saugus. For more information, call (661) 310-4044; or visit www.scvequestriancenter.com.
MulberryMare Equestrian
MulberryMare in Santa Clarita invites all riders, adults and children older than seven years of age — as well as all levels of experience — into the ring.
Owned and operated by Rachel Rubin, MulberryMare is a full service hunter, jumper, and equitation training facility. With a driving focus on the combined skill of technique and self confidence, Rubin gives each client detailed attention to ensure proper learning, growth on confidence, and safety.
MulberryMare Equestrian is located at 27101 Sand Canyon Road in Santa Clarita. For more information, call (818) 605-0639 or visit www. mulberrymare.com.
Rosewood Equestrian
Anjelica Glosup, the owner and trainer of Rose-
Anjelica Glosup, owner and trainer of Rosewood Equestrian, started riding at the age of four and never stopped. In her younger years, she competed in barrel racing and rode the hunter/jumper circuit, winning several awards. PHOTO COURTESY ROSEWOOD EQUESTRIAN
wood Equestrian, started Rosewood on May 1 of 2013.
Involved with horses for more than 20 years, she started riding at the age of four and never stopped. In her younger years she competed heavily in Gymkhana and Barrel Racing, winning buckles, trophies and saddles. She additionally rode on the hunter/ jumper circuit — and to top it off, she competed all over the United States on reining horses. Additionally, she rode in the NRHA Affiliate Finals Championship in OKC, Oklahoma, Las Vegas and more.
Glosup has ridden and competed in all different disciplines. She has started numerous horses from their first ride to being a champion in whatever division that horse was started in. Horses are her life and passion — and she loves to see a horse grow and love their job.
“We start riders from the age of two years old and up — from beginner to winner. Whether you want to ride competitive or for leisure, at Rosewood we have the environment to facilitate all riding dreams.” Rosewood Equestrian is located at 29874 San Francisquito Canyon in Saugus. For more information, call (661) 713-9206; or visit www. rosewoodequestrian.org.
PHOTOS ©ADOBE STOCK
Maple: The On-Trend Flavor This Fall
By Michele E. Buttelman Signal Staff Writer
Pumpkin spice will always have a place in our hearts, but its time to make way for the latest flavor trend this fall, maple. Maple is more than just a flavoring for pancake syrup, this year maple is making its way into coffee, cookies, cakes, glazes and more.
A perennial favorite in Canada, maple has made its way south and is being infused into a variety of products available at supermarkets as well as homemade recipes.
Embrace Maple
If you know you love the taste of maple, think of using maple extract in these clever ways:
Whipped cream Stir a small amount into whipped cream for a topping for pies, cakes, or hot chocolate. Caramels Use maple extract in recipes for soft, chewy caramels.
Pancakes and waffles Stir a little flavoring into the batter to boost the maple taste of your breakfast dishes.
Homemade syrup Create your own pancake syrup by combining water, sugar and maple extract.
Oatmeal Stir a few drops into your morning oatmeal for maple flavor without the extra calories of syrup.
Coffee creamer Make your own maple-flavored coffee creamer by adding a few drops to cream or milk.
Marinades and glazes Create a glaze for roasted poultry, pork, or ham by combining maple flavoring with ingredients like Dijon mustard or soy sauce.
Barbecue sauce Enhance the flavor of homemade barbecue sauce with a touch of maple extract.
Roasted vegetables Drizzle maple-flavored melted butter over roasted vegetables, like sweet potatoes or carrots, for a touch of sweetness.
Toast Add maple flavoring to peanut butter, butter or honey and spread on toast.
Add to Banana bread, chocolate chip cookies, butterscotch blondies, buttercream frostings.
Maple Ginger Fudge
This is a great recipe that makes 3 pounds of fudge, perfect for holiday parties and as a thoughtful and simple homemade gift.
Ingredients
3 cups sugar
1/2 tsp. ground ginger
3/4 cup butter
2/3 cup evaporated milk
2 cups white chocolate chips
7 oz. jar marshmallow creme
2 tsp. maple extract
Chopped walnuts to taste
Directions
Line 13x9 pan with foil; set aside. Place sugar, ginger, butter, and evaporated milk in large heavy saucepan. Bring to full rolling boil on medium heat, stirring constantly. Boil 4 minutes, stirring constantly to prevent scorching. Remove from heat.
Add white chocolate chips and marshmallow creme; stir until melted. Add maple extract; mix well. Add ground walnuts to taste.
Maple Meringue cookies are a fun reciple for fall and Santa Clarita has the perfect eather for making meringue. ©ADOBESTOCK
Pour immediately into prepared pan; spread to form even layer. Sprinkle finely ground walnuts on top as décor. Let stand at room temperature for 4 hours or until completely cooled, cut into squares. Store in tightly covered container at room temperature.
Maple Meringue Cookies
This a fun recipe for the fall/winter season. The Santa Clarita Valley has the prefect climate for making perfect meringue desserts, the lack of humidity in the air makes for exceptional, crunchy, tasty meringues.
Tip The egg whites need to be fresh, separate eggs while cold to avoid getting egg yolk into the whites. Bring the egg whites to room temperature and make sure the whites are completely free of any fat or yolk. Check that your mixing bowl is free of any surface oil or grease.
Ingredients
4 egg whites
1/2 tsp. cream of tartar
1/8 tsp. salt
1 cup fine granulated sugar (Fine sugar can be hard to find, you can make your own by blending regular granulated sugar in a standard home blender to a fine powder).
1/2 tsp. vanilla extract
1/2 tsp. maple extract (Use 1 tsp. of maple extract and omit vanilla for a stronger maple flavor.)
Remo Finds its Rhythmic Foundation in Valencia
When drumming icon Remo Belli first introduced a new synthetic drumhead design in 1957, musicians were quick to embrace a new sound and solution that would revolutionize the drumming industry.
Belli’s durable design was better equipped to withstand changes in temperature, humidity and weather conditions — without the skins breaking or losing tuning.
As his namesake company continued to expand its product line and market reach, Remo Inc. became a global leader in drum and percussion products. An extensive list of the world’s top drummers now support the brand — such as Lars Ulrich of Metallica, Tre Cool of Green Day, and Alex Gonzalez from Spanish rock band Mana, to name a few.
Belli and staff would eventually outgrow its office, warehouse and manufacturing facilities in North Hollywood — even with the company’s expansion across two city blocks and eight buildings.
Having the company so spread out “became a logistical nightmare,” Robert Shen, president of Remo Inc., said in a recent interview. After 40 years, it was time to explore options for a new headquarters to support the company’s rapid worldwide growth.
San Antonio, Texas was at the top of that list. So much so that paperwork and terms were being finalized for a move. But like a good drummer knows, timing is everything.
Doug Sink, Remo’s chief financial officer at the time who was living in Valencia, connected Belli to business-focused organizations such as the Santa Clarita Valley Chamber of Commerce, Shen said. It helped solidify a last-minute decision to cancel the move and stay local.
“One thing that continuously gnawed at Remo in making the decision (whether) to move to Texas was the fact that we weren’t going to be able to take all of our employees with us,” Shen said.
Remo Inc. instead broke ground on a 220,000square-foot facility in the mid-1990s and moved to the Valencia Commerce Center (VCC) in 1997.
VCC has since attracted many more job-producing companies in fast-growing industries such as technology and finance, further contributing to the area’s healthy jobs-to-housing balance. VCC was an
important component of a larger vision for Valencia developed throughout the last six decades by Newhall Land and Farming Company (now part of FivePoint).
Remo prides itself on its long-tenured employees, Shen said, with many having stayed with the company since transitioning from North Hollywood to VCC. Shen himself has been with Remo for 25 years.
“We really treat our employees as our family. I think that helps drive the work ethic and motivation to continue caring about our work — and gives us the drive and passion to do a quality job as well.”
Shen stressed the importance of living close to work as an important component of overall job satisfaction. Most of his administrative staff live in and around the Santa Clarita Valley, which helps enable a strong work-life balance.
“You get to sleep in a little bit longer, you get home a little bit faster, and you can do things in the latter part of the day,” Shen added.
The area’s new homes, top-rated schools, parks, trails, shopping, healthcare and open spaces are also appealing to Remo’s workforce, which includes more than 180 manufacturing professionals and 40 administrative positions.
“We have access to a skilled labor force in the Santa Clarita Valley, and can draw from a strong pool of talent ranging from executive positions to factory-level or entry-level positions,” Shen said.
After Belli’s death in 2016, Shen and his Remo Inc. colleagues remain focused on making sound business decisions while paying respect and homage to the company’s history and founder.
“Our mission is to continue to honor Remo Belli’s legacy and the many ways he helped people. He used music and drumming to improve the human condition and people’s overall health and wellness.”
Like a drummer whose beat is foundational to a band playing cohesively together, Shen seems content to chart Remo’s future and write the rest of its song in Valencia.
Remo Inc. President Robert Shen and his colleagues are focused on making sound business decisions while paying respect and homage to the company’s history and founder Remo Belli. PHOTOS BY KATHERINE QUEZADA / THE SIGNAL
Animal Adoption Week Returns to Santa Clarita!
Presents Podcasts and Editorial series
COMMUNITY INSPIRED
Exploring where and how we live and celebrating the people and fabric of the Santa Clarita Valley.
Episode Six
Santa Clarita Means Business
With:
Ondre Seltzer President and CEO Santa Clarita Valley Economic Development Corporation Nancy Hoffman Vanyek
and CEO San Fernando Valley Chamber of Commerce David Rendall
Find us here: https://bit.ly/community-inspired
By Ken Striplin Santa Clarita City Manager
Each year, over five million animals enter animal care centers across the United States. Many of these animals are strays or surrenders, and without the help of community adoption days or local nonprofits, they may never get the chance to become part of a family.
That is why the City of Santa Clarita is proud to once again partner with the Castaic Animal Care Center to connect residents with animals in need. Beginning Monday, October 27, the City will launch its annual Animal Adoption Week. This special initiative provides residents with the opportunity to adopt a pet at no cost, including adoption fees, which will be covered by the City. Adopters will only need to pay the required licensing fee.
Throughout the week, prospective pet owners can browse adoptable animals online at AnimalCare. LACounty.gov or follow along on the City’s social media channels, where posts will highlight dogs and cats waiting for their forever homes. These features not only give residents the chance to meet the animals virtually, but also showcase each pet’s unique personality, making it easier for families to find the perfect match.
The week will conclude with a community adoption day at William S. Hart Park on Saturday, November 1, from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Residents are invited to spend the morning on the park’s grass fields, where dogs from the Castaic Animal Care Center
will be onsite and available for adoption. The event will also feature family-friendly activities, including lawn games led by the City’s Youth Sports team and hands-on crafts organized by the Santa Clarita Public Library. Attendees can capture memories of this special day with a free photo booth experience — the perfect way to celebrate and commemorate the moment you welcome a new four-legged family member. Adopters will also receive giveaways, like pet bandanas, collapsible water bowls and other supplies to help start their adoption journey.
In addition to promoting adoptions, the City has expanded its support for local animal-focused nonprofits through the Animal Care Grant Program. This year, six organizations were selected as grant recipients for their efforts in rescue, care, training and rehabilitation. The 2025 recipients include Sunny Day Acres, Placerita Nature Center Association, Forever Purr Rescue, Doggy Smiles Rescue, Santa Clarita Valley TNR and Golden Years Dog Sanctuary. Each of these organizations play an important role in supporting the welfare of animals in our community, and the City is proud to help them continue their work.
We encourage everyone to take part in this year’s adoption week, whether by finding your new best friend or becoming a foster. To learn more, please visit SantaClarita.gov/AnimalCare.
Ken Striplin is the City Manager for the City of Santa Clarita and can be reached at kstriplin@santaclarita. gov.
The holiday season is a time for creating meals and memories that last a lifetime, but it’s also one of the busiest times of the year. In the blur of commitments, crowded schedules and endless prep, the tension between a desire to create magical meals and wanting to actually enjoy them is real.
The right cookware can help shift that balance. Inspired by the calming essence of the outdoors, the KitchenAid Evergreen Design Series brings a breath of fresh air into the kitchen, blending expressive design with performance that simplifies the season. From durable stockpots to versatile nonstick pans, these tools elevate both prep and presentation.
In the middle of the holiday bustle, they provide a sense of calm and control, helping you plan ahead, cut stress and truly savor the moments that matter most. Because the best holiday moments aren’t just about what’s on the table — they’re about the joy you feel when you’re a part of them, from the quiet satisfaction of chopping, stirring and creating to the connection that comes when you share the results with those you love.
When you’ll be spending many special evenings around the table during the holiday season, these invaluable tools can help streamline the cooking process whether you need a dish that can be made in advance and frozen for easy entertaining like this Homemade Pumpkin Ravioli with White Wine and Herb Butter Sauce.
Find more recipes and tools to bring culinary inspiration to life during the holidays at kitchenaid. com.
Homemade Pumpkin Ravioli with White Wine and Herb Butter Sauce
Recipe courtesy of Marge Perry and David Bonom Servings 4
Ravioli
1 can (15 ounces) pumpkin puree
1 large egg, lightly beaten
1/3 cup grated Pecorino Romano cheese, plus additional for
serving (optional)
2 tablespoons plain dried breadcrumbs
2 1/4 teaspoon salt
1 pinch ground nutmeg
48 round dumpling wrappers water
Sauce
6 tablespoons cold unsalted butter, divided
1/3 cup chopped shallots
2/3 cup dry white wine
3 tablespoons heavy cream
2 tablespoons chopped fresh sage
1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives
1/4 teaspoon salt
To make ravioli: Line fine mesh sieve with dampened cheesecloth. Add pumpkin puree and strain 1 hour. Transfer to bowl and stir in egg, cheese, breadcrumbs, sugar, salt and nutmeg.
Arrange six dumpling wrappers on work sur face in single layer. Place 1 tablespoon pumpkin mixture in center of each and brush edges with water. Place second wrapper over filling, carefully pushing out any air bubbles then pressing edges to seal.
Transfer ravioli to baking sheet covered with parchment paper. Place sheet of plastic wrap over ravioli. Repeat with remaining wrappers and filling.
In KitchenAid Evergreen Design Series 6-Quart Ceramic Stockpot over medium heat, bring salted water to a gentle simmer
To make sauce: In KitchenAid Evergreen Design Series 3-Quart Ceramic Saucepan over medium-high heat, melt 1 tablespoon butter. Add shallots and cook, stirring occasionally, 1 minute. Add wine, bring to boil and cook until mixture resembles wet sand, 8-9 minutes.
Reduce heat to medium-low and whisk in remaining butter and heavy cream until melted. Stir in sage, chives and salt; keep warm, stirring occasionally.
To cook ravioli, add half to simmering water and cook, stirring gently once or twice, 3 minutes. Remove with slotted spoon and divide between two plates. Add remaining ravioli to pot and repeat dividing between remaining plates. Spoon sauce over ravioli and serve with additional grated cheese, if desired. (Family Features)
The Latest News on What’s Happening In Hollywood
By Tony Rizzo
Spider-Man Tom Holland suffered a concussion doing a stunt-gone-wrong on the set of “Spider-Man: Brand New Day,” which caused filming to shut down for a week. His lady, Zendaya, rushed to his side. “Spider-Man: No Way Home” (2021) was Sony’s highest-grossing film of all time — a $1.92 billion take at the box office.
Have you ever wanted to own an actual Muppet? The Jim Henson Company’s having a historic auction where puppets from “Fraggle Rock,” “Labyrinth,” and “The Dark Crystal” will be on the auction block (along with over 400 items). The Jim Henson Company’s 70th Anniversary Auction
is timed for Nov. 25 and will be held at their Hollywood headquarters, which was once the studio where Charlie Chaplin made movies and Herb Alpert made records.
There’s also a new Muppet show in the works that is being produced by Seth Rogen. However, before you get excited, you should know that some of the items (such as Naia, the Drenchen Gelfling full-body puppet used in “The Dark Crystal”) are estimated to be at $15,000-$25,000. You can preorder the auction catalog that features hundreds of color illustrations and behind-the-scene stories online at JuliensAuctions.com. Good luck!
The task of finding the next 007 has fallen to Denis Villeneuve, who’ll start his search for James Bond next
year after he completes production of “Dune: Part Three.” They’re seeking a “fresh face” to take on “Bond 26.” He’ll definitely be male, and he must hail from the British Isles. Their plan is to go back to the original Ian Fleming novels, which means they’re looking for a young Sean Connery!
Top Movies
Oct. 20, 2025
1. Tron: Ares (PG-13) Jared Leto, Greta Lee
2. Roofman (R) Channing Tatum, Tony Revolori
3. One Battle After Another (R) LEOnardo DiCaprio, Sean Penn
Ever wondered what happened to Emma Watson, who starred as Hermione Granger in eight “Harry Potter” films from 2001-2011 — as well as major films such as “Noah” (2014), “Beauty and the Beast” (2017), and “Little Women” (2019) — then disappeared for six years?
She’s offered that “having the weight of a public persona” is burdensome, which is why she wasn’t in a rush to return to filmmaking. She admitted that she is “the happiest and healthiest I’ve ever been.”
H E L BY OA K S E 1:40 4:20 7:00
A woman’s obsessive search for her missing sister leads her into a terrifying myster y at the hands of an unknown evi
S P R I N G S T E E N: D E L I V E R M E F RO M N OW H E R E C Sun: 10:00 1:00 4 00 7:00 Mon to Thu: 1:00 4:00 7:00
This film chron cles the making of Bruce Springsteen’s 1982 “Nebraska” album
G O O D F O R T U N E E Sun 10:15 1:20 4:20 7:00; Mon to Thu: 1:20 4:20 7:00
A well-meaning but rather inept ange named Gabriel meddles in the ives of a struggling gig worker and a wealthy venture capita ist
T H E B L AC K P H O N E 2 E 1:10 4:10 7:10
The Grabber seeks vengeance on Finn from beyond the grave by menacing F nn s younger s ster
T RU T H A N D T R E A S O N C Sun 10 10 AM
Based on a true stor y, German teen He muth Hübener eads a resistance against the Gestapo RO O FM A N E Sun: 1:00 4:10 7:10; Mon: 1:00 4:10; Tue to Thu: 1:00 4:10 7:10
After escaping prison, Jeffrey secret y lives inside a Toys R Us for six months, sur viving undetec ted while planning his nex t move P E ACO C K Sun: 10:00 AM Bernhard Wenger ’s PEACOCK is a biting and h larious social satire about the
Equal par ts Stephen Sondheim and Lloyd Kaufman,
4. Gabby’s Dollhouse: The Movie (G) Laila Lockhart Kraner, Kristen Wiig
5. The Conjuring: Last Rites (R) Patrick Wilson, Vera Farmiga
6. Soul on Fire (PG) Joel Courtney, John Corbett
7. Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba - The Movie - Infinity Castle (R) Zach Aguilar, Ryan Bartley © 2025 King Features Synd., Inc.
She explained further, “The bigger component than the actual job itself is the promotion and selling of that piece of work. … I do not miss selling things. I found that to be quite soul-destroying. But I do very much miss using my skillset, and I very much miss the art. … The most important thing … is your home, friends and family. … I needed to go and do some construction work.” She also stated that she “felt a bit caged in by it.”
Sounds like “Noah” star Watson, at 35, needs another long ocean voyage during this arc in her career! © 2025 King Features Synd., Inc.
Emma Watson of “Harry Potter” fame. ©Depositphotos
Jim Henson on The Tonight Show with Johnny Carson (1962) ©IMDB
Five Ways to Age Proof Your Home
Easy upgrades to improve the lives of older adults
Ahome is more than four walls — it’s where birthdays are celebrated, holiday dinners shared, illnesses weathered and losses mourned. Home is, as the saying goes, where the heart is.
It’s little wonder then most people want to remain in their homes as they age, based on AARP research. Yet, according to the U.S. Census Bureau, less than half of U.S. houses are equipped with accessibility features for older adults.
It doesn’t take a full remodel to make a home safer. Updates like installing handrails or improving hallway lighting can go a long way.
For those who need support in making these changes, programs like Helping Homebound Heroes, a partnership between Meals on Wheels America and The Home Depot Foundation, provide senior veterans with essential home modifications and repairs. This year, the initiative marked a milestone: 4,000 homes modified for seniors’ safety.
“By improving safety and accessibility, we’re helping senior veterans stay in the places they love,” said Ellie Hollander, president and CEO of Meals on Wheels America. “Our work is about preserving independence and dignity — helping older adults live safely, confidently and with connection to their communities.”
These practical tips show how small fixes can add up to big peace of mind:
Create a Safer Entryway
For older adults, steps to the front door can be an obstacle. A ramp or zero-step entry allows for easier coming and going, and a covered porch or awning keeps walkways dry.
Path lights improve visibility at night, and a sturdy bench by the door provides a place to rest or put groceries.
Upgrade the Bathroom
According to multiple studies, falls in the bathroom are more likely to cause injury than in other parts of the home.
If you’re planning a bathroom project, start with small changes like raised toilet seats or toilet and shower grab bars. For a more extensive remodel, install non-slip flooring, replace traditional tubs with walk-in showers and add handheld showerheads.
Improve Flooring
The flooring in your home can have a big impact on safety. If you have thick or loose carpet, consider replacing it with a low-pile option. Slip-resistant flooring, such as vinyl or cork, also provides good traction and can be more forgiving than hardwood or tile. Simple visual cues can
help, too. Transition strips between rooms or on stair edges make changes in floor level easier to see.
Brighten Up Rooms
Brighter overhead fixtures improve visibility, making it easier to spot steps, furniture and other obstacles. At night, motion-sensor lights brighten bathrooms and hallways so it’s easier to move around safely.
Lighting can also support overall well-being. Bulbs mimicking natural daylight help regulate the body’s circadian rhythm, boosting energy during the day. In the evening, switching to softer, warmer light signals the body to wind down.
Keep Essentials Within Reach
Storing everyday items at waist or shoulder height reduces the need for stretching, bending and climbing, all of which can increase the likelihood of falls. Sometimes a simple cabinet reorganization is enough but features like pull-down shelving can make storage
more accessible.
Extender rods or remote controls let you adjust ceiling fans and lights from the ground, while motorized window shades can be raised or lowered with the push of a button.
For more resources and support for seniors, visit mealsonwheelsamerica. org.
A Milestone Makeover
Juan Lopez, a 63-year-old U.S. Army and Air Force veteran, has always been a do-it-yourselfer. When an ice storm sent a tree limb crashing through his roof, the damage was more than he could handle. Water seeped inside and mold quickly affected his wife’s health.
Through Helping Homebound Heroes, Lopez received critical support. Crews completed nearly $40,000 in upgrades, from replacing his roof to installing new windows, a furnace and walk-in showers with grab bars.
“I don’t know what I would’ve done if they had not stepped in,” Lopez said. “It’s been such a blessing in our lives.”
Since 2015, The Home Depot Foundation has contributed more than $21 million to Meals on Wheels programs, helping veterans like Lopez remain safely and comfortably in their homes as they age. (Family Features)
PHOTO COURTESY OF SHUTTERSTOCK
Extend your Growing & Harvest Season
Wherever you garden, from the northeast and high mountain elevations to the mild climate west and the balmier southern states, the spring and summer growing season often seem just too short. Use the following tips and techniques to reap the biggest bounty from your garden and stretch extra days and weeks out of your growing and harvesting season.
Make Late-Season Plantings
Extend your harvest into fall by planting second crops of cool season vegetables, such as peas, greens, lettuce, carrots, Napa and regular cabbage, kale, kohlrabi, Asian vegetables, radishes, spinach and turnips.
Planting these veggies in late summer/early fall will yield harvests long after your summer crops are finished. The longer the frost-free season in your area, the greater the variety of fall crops you'll be able to grow.
Take Advantage of Microclimates
Some areas around your property may stay warmer or are sheltered from the wind or frost. For example, gardens at the top of a slope often avoid an early frost as cold air settles in lower areas. Use these protected sites to grow vegetables later in the season.
Protect from Early Frost
In fall, freezing temperatures limit plant growth in northern latitudes and at high elevations.
Cover late season plantings with floating row covers, mini- greenhouses made from clear plastic, or even old window sashes set on hay bales. Vent the covers on warm days to prevent excessive heat buildup. Modern floating row covers spread on top of your growing beds can protect crops from early frost by maintaining a temperature about 4°F higher than the air temperature. You can also try a black plastic mulch to retain extra heat in fall. Cover the edges of the plastic with soil to anchor it in place.
Choose Hardy Crops
End the gardening season with cold-hardy vegetables that can actually tolerate frost, such as peas, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, broccoli, broccoli raab, kale, beets, leeks, carrots, turnips, radicchio, escarole, scallions and spinach. Some vegetables also
Extend your harvest into fall by planting second crops of cool season vegetables, such as kale.
©ADOBESTOCK
have particular varieties better suited to grow in cold, short-day climates. Read seed packets and catalog descriptions to find vegetables that are described as cold tolerant.
Invest in a Cold Frame
A cold frame can extend your garden season no matter what part of the country you live in. You will find that you can have ample greens for good salads throughout much of the winter in all but the coldest climates by using a cold frame.
Cold frames are basically little houses where plants can have a head start in spring and extra growing time in the fall and early winter. You can purchase a cold frame or make your own. If you have an old storm window and some planks or scrap lumber, you can put together an easy cold frame.
Nail the wood together to fit under the storm window. Instead of cutting the sides on a slant, just build the frame as a box and simply top it with the storm window. Skip the hinges.
On hot days, slide the window to the side to let heat out; on cold nights, put the window squarely over the top of the frame and cover it with an old blanket. In the summer when you don't need it, it's easy to store.
Cold frames are great for extending the growing
season of all cool season leafy crops. Keep a thermometer in the cold frame to help monitor temperatures. Vent the frame when daytime temperatures go above 50 degrees F for cool season crops. Close it back up when temperatures drop below 45 degrees F. Make growing in a cold frame even easier by investing in a solar-powered vent opener that automatically opens and closes the lid as temperatures dictate. This way you won't have to worry about plants getting too hot or cold when you're not around.
Mulch root crops for an extended harvest in cold winter areas. If your ground freezes hard, you'll need to insulate the soil around your veggies' roots so they don't freeze. Put a 10-12-inch layer of mulch over the rows, extending out 18 inches on each side. This will keep the soil around the roots at an even 35-40 degrees — the ideal storage temperature. Once the mulch is down, you can go out anytime, move it aside and dig up some fresh roots. You can even dig carrots, leeks, beets, and parsnips out from under two feet of snow!
Vegetables stored in the ground won't keep well once you dig them, so plan to use within a few days.
(Home Garden Seed Association)
Set on Stone — An On-Trend Guide to Regional Aesthetics, Durable Design
Manufactured stone veneer (MSV) brings timeless design to any space, but it's far from “one size fits all.” Styles, colors and texture preferences often vary by geography, climate and architectural tradition.
Today, homeowners, builders and designers alike are increasingly drawn to regionally inspired looks that complement local landscapes and home styles. As trends evolve, MSV has risen in popularity for its versatility and ability to reliably embody authentic regional materials. The styles that dominated a few years ago have shifted, giving way to fresh combinations of palettes and textures.
Selecting the right stone allows projects to blend seamlessly with their surroundings, enhancing both curb appeal and resale value. Regional architecture can serve as a helpful guide, whether your inspiration comes from coastal cottages, Southwestern adobes, New England farmhouses or Midwest craftsman homes.
While some homeowners use quarried natural stone to achieve the look they desire, MSV offers a cost-effective alternative with serious durability and minimal maintenance.
With consistent quality, easy installation and a wide range of options, Westlake Royal Stone Solutions' multiple product lines make it simple to achieve authentic, regionally inspired designs. The Eldorado Stone collection, for instance, features everything from coral stone and rustic fieldstone to meticulously handcrafted brick, wood-look textures and more.
Whether you're looking to embrace styles from your own region or draw
inspiration from another part of the country, these insights can help you craft a design aesthetic that feels both current and connected.
Northeast Aesthetics tend toward warmth with neutral colors and natural materials that reflect the coastal geography and design elements that echo the local environment. Natural materials like wood and stone are common, as are distressed or weathered looks that lend an antique or vintage feel. When it comes to stonework, in this region you can expect to find an array of cool grays, ledgestone profiles and rugged textures echoing historic masonry.
Southeast The timeless charm of a Southern home blends numerous elements to create a look that is inviting but still traditional. Symmetrical facades, architectural details like porches or columns and rich wood accents are popular choices, as are earthy tones, brick and wood accents. Stone aesthetics lean toward warmer earth tones and tumbled looks that complement brick blends and traditional styles.
Midwest Look for simple designs with clean edges, neutral tones and natural materials. Decor leans toward rustic or country with touches that elicit a feeling of comfort and relaxation. Neutral or mixed-tone fieldstones and contemporary stacked stone profiles are particularly popular for both interior and exterior elements of craftsman or transitional homes.
Southwest Contrary to the perception of a drab brown desert, local geography lends character to design with vibrant earthy palettes. Natural woodwork textures that contrast with rustic
features like metals create a distinctive aesthetic. Lighter, sandy hues of stonework and smooth or elongated profiles that reflect desert landscapes and Spanish-influenced architecture are common among Southwest homes.
West Coast Further west, you'll see a transition from warm, desert-inspired neutrals to cooler, ocean-like tones. Architecture leans toward modernism with a casual, relaxed vibe. Designs that promote a seamless flow between indoor and outdoor living are common. Complementing organic wood and natural textile selections are often modern, linear styles with cooler neutrals and greige palettes for clean, coastal or urban designs. Find more inspiration and tips to bring regionally inspired, on-trend MSV into your next home project at westlakeroyalbuildingproducts.com. (Family Features)
Practical Tips for Choosing Stone Veneer
MSV can add eye-catching ambiance to your home, whether you’re using it inside or out, for a big statement or subtle accent. It’s a popular choice due to its durability and affordability. MSV also comes in a range of options, making it easy to find a match for your home’s design.
• Look at nearby historic and new builds to guide your palette and profile selection.
• Consider how your selection will integrate with your home’s complementary materials, such as brick, siding, exposed wood or trim, and colors.
• Work with local dealers or design professionals to help you pinpoint region-specific recommendations. (Family Features)
Photo courtesy of Westlake Royal Building Products
Five Strategies to Combat Stressful Triggers
Stress, the physical or mental response to external causes like overwhelming work assignments or difficult life moments, can add unnecessary pressure to your day to day. While everyone feels stress from time to time, when left untreated or unrecognized, it can begin to wreak havoc in the form of anxiety.
Consider these strategies to combat stress from the National Institutes of Mental Health.
Learn Your Triggers
Different events and situations cause stress for different people. Knowing what triggers your stress to kick in — mounds of office paperwork, important financial decisions or hectic mornings, for example — can help
you plan and prepare for stress-inducing moments.
Exercise and Eat Right
Maintaining physical health can be beneficial for mental health, too. Find time to do exercises you enjoy like walking, jogging, yoga or playing a sport. Identifying activities that bring you joy can make it easier to fit 30-60 minute workouts into your schedule without adding even more stress. Complement your workout routine with nutritional meals that help you stay on track with your fitness goals.
Practice Relaxation
Whether you find inner peace through journaling, breathing exercises, reading or some other form of slowing down, find what works for you and prioritize fitting it into your
daily schedule. Relaxing activities help you slow down the pace of life, providing a chance to reset by doing something you enjoy.
Get Enough Sleep
A lack of quality sleep can add to stress. Creating a bedtime routine can increase your sleep habits and help you achieve the expert-recommended 7-9 hours per night. Put away electronics, which can interfere with your ability to calm your mind, and find an activity that puts you at ease like reading a book or listening to relaxing music. Ensure your bedroom is opti-
mized for comfort by making it cool, dark and quiet.
Create a Network of Support
Everyone experiences stress. Reach out to family members and close friends you can lean on in stressful and frustrating moments. Share your feelings and encourage others to do the same, which can increase trust and help everyone in your circle cope in a positive way.
Find more ways to combat stress and care for your mental health at eLivingtoday.com. (Family Features)
Pet Corner
A Holistic Approach to Happy, Healthy Pets
When you think about your pet's wellness, it's easy to focus solely on the food you're placing in their bowl. However, true wellness encompasses a much broader spectrum, inclusive of nutrition, preventative care, oral health, exercise, mental stimulation and more. Consult with your veterinarian to customize a wellness plan to improve the longevity and overall quality of your pet's life and consider these ideas
from the experts at Swedencare, a leading pet health company, to play an active role in providing a happier, healthier life for your furry friend.
Prevention and Early Intervention
While many think of preventative care as an annual vet visit, that is only the beginning. Those yearly checkups should include a thorough physical examination as well as necessary vaccinations, screening for potential
parasites and age-related diseases and updated prescription medications — giving your veterinarian a chance to spot any potential problems early. Based on the findings of the exam, you can work with your vet to create a prevention plan tailored to your pet's health and risk factors, including recommendations for spaying or neutering, maintaining good oral health and adjusting their diet to ensure proper nutrition and a healthy weight.
Nutrition as a Building Block for Health
A balanced diet complete with the necessary nutrients is the cornerstone of pet wellness. Work with your vet to provide a combination of protein, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins and minerals tailored to your four-legged family member's species and life stage. Remember to review labels and certifications, choosing natural ingredients
while avoiding artificial additives, fillers and preservatives. Sometimes, even the best diets can leave nutritional gaps, however, and supplements can help fill voids and provide additional support for joint health, skin and coat condition, digestive function and dental health. Start small, swapping a regular treat for a functional dental bite, such as ProDen PlaqueOff Crunchy Dental Bites, which are formulated with clinically proven kelp to help support dental health and offer a Veterinary Oral Health Council stamp of approval for the dog version — offering owners an easy, reward-style supplement to fold into everyday routines.
Daily Movement
Daily movement, whether through walks, playing, agility training or even using puzzle feeders, is critical for
WELLNESS
Continued from page 15
weight control and joint health. Regular activity also improves mood and helps prevent boredom-related behaviors — such as excessive meowing or barking, digging, clawing or chewing on furniture and more — according to the Foundation for Animal Care and Education.
The amount of exercise your pet needs can vary by species, breed and age. Some larger dog breeds may need multiple hours of activity per day, including walks or hikes and fetch sessions, while smaller dogs and cats may benefit from short, active play sessions throughout the day.
Importance of Oral Health
Proper dental care is an important aspect of overall pet care and helps prevent plaque buildup, tartar accumulation and gum disease, all of which can affect your pet's energy levels and organ health. Use National Pet Wellness Month to refresh their oral care routine with an option like ProDen PlaqueOff Crunchy Dental Bites.
Easy to incorporate into any routine, these
low-calorie bites can be given daily alongside a pet's regular dental care regimen. They contain the unique, natural and clinically proven kelp ingredient
A.N ProDen to help reduce plaque and tartar buildup while keeping breath fresh all in a bite-sized, crunchy form with a tasty veggie flavor.
Explore Mental Enrichment
Mental stimulation is just as important as physical exercise for your pet. Engaging in training games, using interactive toys, conducting scent work and organizing social outings can boost cognitive function and help reduce stress.
Mental enrichment complements physical exercise and is particularly beneficial for older pets or during inclement weather when activities can be taken indoors. Introducing a new walking route or adding a 5-minute training game to indoor playtime can make a difference in your pet's happiness and overall well-being.
Find more advice and products to help your pet live a long, healthy life at us.swedencare.com. (Family Features)
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
Simple Ways to Stay on Top of Your Finances
“Afool and his money are soon parted” is an adage that notes the ease with which money can be lost if not managed responsibly. Monitoring expenses and understanding the nuances of personal finance can help people grow their wealth.
Budgeting helps people take control of their money. Individuals have to track their expenses to avoid overspending and stay on budget. Only by monitoring where money is going and how much one has left can a person avoid spending beyond their means. People hoping to manage money more effectively can monitor their spending in various ways.
Categorize Your Spending
Place expenses into categories so you can see exactly where money is going. Categories may include utilities, dining out, education, home improvements, etc.
Choose a Method to Track Spending
Keeping a ledger is the easiest way to write down
MAPLE
Continued from page 6
Directions
Whip the whites, salt and cream of tartar until white and frothy.
Add the sugar in spoonfuls slowly, letting it dissolve before adding the next spoonful.
Scrape down the sides of the bowl occasionally.
When all the sugar has been added, whip until stiff peaks form.
Add in the vanilla and maple extract then whip back to the stiff peaks stage.
Put meringue in piping bag with a star tip. (You can also just drop spoonfuls of meringue on the parchment for a more rustic cookie.)
monthly (or daily) expenditures. Certain expense tracking apps and software are designed to automate and optimize tracking and managing expenses. Financfy, an online accounting software, says credit cards and bank accounts can be linked to these types of software to easily record every transaction.
Set Up Spending Alerts
Transaction limit capabilities and alerts are features of expense-tracking and credit card apps. Users set a defined amount beyond which you don’t want to spend. When you get close to that amount, an alert is issued and you can take the necessary
Pipe out 1-inch diameter cookies on parchment lined baking trays
Bake on the center oven rack at 225F for 60-70 minutes. The cookies should be light, crisp, completely dry, without any color around the edges, and be easily lifted off the parchment paper. Do not remove from oven.
Turn off oven and leave them inside to cool slowly, about 1-2 hours.
Put into airtight container as soon as cool, as the more time they spend in humid air, the softer/ stickier they will get.
Maple Meat Glaze
This glaze uses real maple syrup and is perfect for glazing just about any meat you cook, either on the grill
steps to curtail spending.
Monitor Your Credit
There are many different credit monitoring services that send a text or an email when credit scores change or new credit inquiries are made. This helps you understand if your identity has been compromised and if unauthorized payments have been made. Taking prompt action to reconcile unauthorized credit usage can help consumers avoid credit score drops and other pitfalls.
Monitor Statements Regularly
It’s important to periodically review bank statements. This helps ensure that everything is correct. Some banks and credit cards even offer their own, free expense tracking services that can be integrated with your financial tracking method of choice. Tracking expenses is an important component of money management, and a step everyone should take as they seek to secure their financial futures. (MC)
or in the oven. The sweet and savory mix adds flavor to your holiday ham, grilled wings, pork ribs, pork loin, pork chops and more.
Ingredients
12 ounces Pure Maple Syrup
2 tbsp. granulated garlic
1 tbsp. coarse black pepper
1 tbsp. smoked paprika
2 tsp. salt
1 tsp. ground rosemary
1 tsp. onion powder
1/2 tsp. ground ginger
Directions
Combine all ingredients in a small saucepan.
Whisk together and cook over medium heat, bringing mixture to a boil.
Stir frequently and cook 3-5 minutes.
The maple meat glaze adds a sweet and savory flavor to just about any meat you cook. ©ADOBESTOCK
Remove from heat and cool slightly before using.
This maple glaze can be made in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator up to 3 weeks.
Bring to room temperature or heat slightly before using.
PUZZLES
SOLUTIONS
READER
LETTERS
SCV Water Kudos
I just completed the four sessions at the SCV Water Academy. We toured three locations, each unique, but with the same goal: “Clean/ Safe Drinking Water, without fear of turning on the faucet and nothing comes out” even during earthquakes, power outages and fires.
Also, just as important, maybe the most: at what cost.
All of these topics were covered and answered satisfactorily.
The very competent staff in all areas of the Santa Clarita Valley Water Agency, from Customer Service, Finance, Engineering, Operations and others, came across as a team of people who take their responsibilities seriously.
I personally learned a lot and thoroughly enjoyed the sessions. We were provided detailed handouts for future reference.
If you are curious about how our water is distributed and your schedule permits, I recommend attending the academy.
Gene Rostalski Valencia
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ETHICALLY SPEAKING
Woke Gnosticism vs. Naked Truth
By David Hegg
Through a conversation with a learned friend, I recently came to see the eerie reality that what we know as “woke” ideology is a post-modern adaptation of the ancient philosophy, gnosticism. The gnostic worldview, coming from the Greek word for “knowledge” (gnosis), taught that the material world was created by a lesser deity and has always been fatally flawed. It could only be transcended through “secret knowledge.” That is, “salvation” was found in an esoteric wisdom that granted a person the ability to see the errors and terrors around them, which the average person was blind to. Today, woke ideology trumpets the same belief. The woke folk believe the rest of us are asleep and unable to see, much less recognize the social systems of capitalism, traditional religion with its sexual restrictions, “whiteness” and many other things in Western civilization, as structurally oppressive and active in perpetuating inequality and injustice. Just like gnosticism that insisted on a new order, woke ideology looks at the Western world and concludes it is fraught with unsolvable, inherent evil and cannot be fixed. Instead, it must be destroyed and replaced with a new, enlightened order equipped with a woke ethical, moral and practical cultural system.
sary to escape that world. In the same way, woke ideology’s gospel is one of liberation that comes only by recognizing society’s evil structures, tearing them down, rejecting traditional virtues and standards, and replacing them with those ideas that celebrate their woke ideals.
To this end, the woke folk follow the gnostic playbook. In gnosticism, humanity was divided into groups and labeled in a manner that promoted the gnostic agenda. The primary division is between those who are awake and aware of what is happening and those who are snoring while their society is being ruined. To the engineers in the woke party, the rest of us are asleep and actually blind to the heinous powers that have us shackled in a dream world. The woke movement categorizes people in pejorative ways (oppressors vs. oppressed, privileged vs. disadvantaged, white vs. non-white, etc.) and, in so doing, insists these categories represent one’s moral character and ability to see reality. The woke folk define everyone as either helping or hurting society. Those who have “awakened” and are seeing the truth are labeled as intelligent, worthy and humane. Those who resist and oppose are demeaned, ridiculed and often canceled, increasingly through violence.
Here is where the idea of a secular “religion” comes in. In gnosticism, “salvation” from the evil world came from an enlightenment, an exceptional grasp on the knowledge neces-
How does the woke agenda work? It comes down to the rejection of objective truth. Just as gnosticism downplayed the material world and insisted truth was esoteric and not dependent on coherence with evident reality, so too does woke ideology insist truth is relative, subject to individual desires and needs. Thus, apprehending criminals is inhumane, but aborting human life is applauded. There are a growing number of genders and sexual identities, and trans men in women’s sports is a good thing. These biological men transitioning to women, even though they have never menstruated, endured menopause, or given birth, are to be seen as women just the same. I could go on to many other examples of how the woke agenda insists on jettisoning undeniable biological truth and, with it, plain old common sense. Woke ideology is certainly not ancient gnosticism, but it is structured in the same way. It is replaying the gnostic agenda with its arrogant and false distinction between the “enlightened” and the ignorant. But, in reality, the “woke” are not awake but rather inebriated, intoxicated on their own rejection of the societal restraints that have always curbed foolish, harmful thinking.
I believe the woke ideology is first a rejection of the truth that, as humans, we are accountable to the transcendent God who created us. Consequently, even those who believe they can sever that relationship and live without regard for a future reckoning will still find themselves responsible for their actions. But to whom? The woke folk have made their “psychologized self” the only god they serve. It is, conveniently, the only power to which they feel responsible. When people proclaim there is no power, no cultural norm, no tradition, no objective truth to which they must align their lives, we can be sure they are not seeking the benefit of all.
Maybe it is time we join the truth-telling little boy watching the parade and dare to shout, “The emperor has no clothes.” In this case, the woke ideology has the wrong ideas.
Local resident David Hegg is senior pastor of Grace Baptist Church. “Ethically Speaking” appears Sundays.
