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DECEMBER 1, 2019

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Together, we are Saugus Strong.

To our students and parents: Our community is here for you and is sending hope and healing your way.

Thank you to Superintendent Vicki Engbrecht and Principal Vince Ferry for your leadership and thanks to our first responders for your bravery.

@SupervisorBarger @SupervisorKathrynBarger

@KathrynBarger KathrynBarger.LACounty.gov

D E C E M B E R 1, 2019

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 3

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

D E C E M B E R 1, 2019

NEWS FEATURES 5 Locals review the latest Disney+ debuts 6 Generational holiday desserts from your neighbors 7 Shadowland — A passion for the call of the wild 8 An offer of meals, murder, mystery and more LOCAL NEWS 9 Santa Clarita hosts 20th annual Thanksgiving dinner Outage effects go beyond the loss of power FROM THE CITY MANAGER 12 Make a different this season by shopping local FROM THE MAYOR 12 Holiday events are comin’ to town HOLIDAYS 13 Finding and maintaing your perfect Christmas tree SPORTS 14 Saugus High runs on tradition of excellence TECHNOLOGY 15 Remember that? A home-technology time machine DINING GUIDE ENTERTAINMENT 20 The Sweet returns to Canyon Santa Clarita 21 Holiday entertainment CALENDAR KIDS & FAMILY 23 How you can resolve to be a better parent Helpful tips to use when booking a babysitter 24 Donna’s Day: Tips for choosing toys for holiday giving School menu FOOD 25 Christmas cravings THINGS TO DO 26 Celebrate the holidays with uniquely SoCal Fun GIFT GUIDE INTERIOR DESIGN 30 Home decorating for the holidays HOME IMPROVEMENT 31 Maintaining pool lines in upcoming cold weather HEALTH 32 Best flu hacks every traveler should know PETS 33 Making sense of doggie dental care TIME RANGER SENIOR LIVING 35 Avoiding Medicare fraud GARDENING 36 How to help your poinsettias last longer OPINION VILLAGE IDIOT

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D E C E M B E R 1, 2019

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 5

Locals review the latest Disney+ debuts

N E W S F E AT U R E S

By Emily Alvarenga Signal Staff Writer

I

t’s been a couple of weeks since the launch of Disney+, Disney’s much-anticipated streaming service.

Not only has the vault of Disney’s beloved classics been cracked open for all to enjoy, which includes classic Disney movies and shows like “Lizzie McGuire” and “Boy Meets World,” but a number of new shows, shorts and films have also debuted on the platform.

We talked to a few Santa Clarita Valley families to get their takes on some of the new and original programming, as well as classic remakes, from the makers of Mickey Mouse.

“The Mandalorian”

Set in the Star Wars universe, another warrior emerges after the fall of the Empire, but before the creation of the First Order.

This live-action follows the warrior who now wears bounty hunter Boba Fett’s armor, featuring a “baby Yoda,” which many claim is the best part of the show, including Newhall resident Quinten Samuels.

“Baby Yoda is perfection,” Samuels said, adding that he was hooked on the show since his first glimpse of the character. “I was on the fence before I saw him, but now I’m just so excited to see what role he plays.”

Though Yoda died at the end of “Return of the Jedi,” which is set five years before this new series, the new baby appears to not only be from the same species, but also just as important as his counterpart.

‘The Imagineering Story’

For those who have ever wondered about the story behind “The Happiest Place on Earth,” as well as Disney’s 11 other parks around the world, this is the definitive documentary series for you.

This series chronicles the more than 60 years of Walt Disney’s “imagineers,” who are responsible for bringing Disney’s ideas to life, with a look behind the scenes at how they built each of the parks and some of the most iconic rides.

“I’ve been watching ‘Imagineering’ each week on the night that it drops with my sons,” Valencia resident

TOP: “The Mandolorian” is a new plotline for fans of the “Star Wars” universe that’s been very well-received — which is no small feat for its very discerning fanbase. The new Disney+ series one RIGHT: The new Disney+ streaming service offers a mix of the classic Disney movies that fans love, as well as some new and original retellings of original stories that have been around for years. PHOTOS COURTESY DISNEY+

Wendy Pizzel said. “They’re 14 and 7 now, so there’s not too many shows we can watch together these days and all enjoy, but this is definitely one of them. We all look forward to watching it together each week.”

“Lady and the Tramp”

To add to Disney’s recent trend of re-releasing classics with a live-action twist, this retelling of the timeless 1955 animated classic brings adventure to a pampered pup who encounters a lovable stray.

The cute pups in this remake are real-life dogs that have been featured on Disney’s social media in anticipation of the film’s release.

“I loved the dogs and the gorgeous scenery, but I think it reminded me a lot of the ‘Lion King’ remake, which just felt a little less magical than the originals,” Pizzel said. “It was still adorable though and certainly worth a watch.”

‘Encore’

Hosted by Kristen Bell, the voice of Anna from “Frozen,” this series

reunites the cast of “High School Musical,” asking them to perform it again years later under the direction of Broadway directors, choreographers and voice coaches.

“This one brought me back to my high school theater days,” said Emily Williams, a Saugus mother of two.

“I can’t even imagine what it would be like to have to perform on stage again.”

Williams’ daughters have both followed in their mother’s footsteps, taking singing and acting classes since they were young.

“I’ve learned a lot more from them over the years, so if I did have to do it, I’d be more prepared,” she said, chuckling.

‘The World According to Jeff Goldblum’

This series features Jeff Goldblum, known for his role as Dr. Ian Malcolm in “Jurassic Park,” taking an in-depth look at everyday objects.

Each episode features something

familiar and widely appreciated, such as ice cream or sneakers, delving into the history and science behind them.

“I loved the ice cream episode,” 9-year-old Nathan Samuels said, adding that his dad took he and his siblings out for ice cream after watching.

‘Forky Asks A Question’ The craft project created from trash and newly introduced character in “Toy Story 4,” Forky, has important questions about how the world works through a series of 10 shorts.

“He doesn’t know much because he’s just a fork, so he has a lot of questions,” Nathan added.

“It’s life’s most important questions answered by a fork,” Nathan’s dad, Quinten Samuels, added, laughing.

“Honestly it’s actually been pretty interesting. I’ve actually learned a couple of new things.”

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D E C E M B E R 1, 2019

N E W S F E AT U R E

Generational holiday desserts from your neighbors cookie into about 4 pieces)

By Vivianna Shields Signal Staff Writer

A

delicious homemade dessert for the family to enjoy is the cherry on top of every holiday dinner.

So it comes as no surprise that families pass down different dessert recipes through generations to keep the recipe ‘that grandma used to make’ alive. Though the original creator may not always be there to make it, these recipes continue their legacy.

However for others, younger generations are able to work alongside the creator, creating countless memories during the holiday season. Below, Santa Clarita residents have shared some of their own family desserts with the community to try during the holidays.

Topping:

2 cups sour cream (16 ounce container) 1/4 cup white sugar

Glaze:

1/2 cup whipping cream 3/4 cup semisweet chocolate chips, melted 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

We asked SCV families to share dessert recipes that have been passed down from generation to generation to keep the legacy alive. The sweet potato pie is a holiday favorite in the Mckellar house. Courtesy Craig Adderley

Sit for several hours to thicken before cutting. Top with whipped cream.

Sweet Potato Pie

Courtesy of Renée Mckellar, of Saugus “My mom makes this dessert and it tastes so good,” said Mckellar. “I have to wait all year to eat it.”

Lauren Mowry shares Grandma Mowry’s Chocolate Pie recipe. Courtesy photo

Grandma Mowry’s Chocolate Pie

Courtesy of Lauren Mowry, of Saugus “This recipe is near and dear to my family,” Lauren Mowry said. “It was nearly lost because Grandma Mowry did not originally write it down.”

3 4 3/4 1/8 3 1 1 1 1

Tbsp Hershey’s Cocoa Tbsp flour cup granulated sugar tsp salt cups Half & Half or Whole Milk egg yolk Tbsp butter tsp vanilla pre-baked pie crust

Stir together cocoa, flour, salt and sugar in large saucepan. Mix together half & half and egg yolk. Combine with dry ingredients. Put over medium heat stirring constantly until bubbly and the mixture thickens.

Take off heat. Add butter and vanilla.

Stir until almost cool. Pour into crust.

4 large sweet potatoes 1 stick (8 tablespoons) unsalted butter, melted 1/2 cup heavy cream 2 tablespoons agave nectar 1 teaspoon cinnamon 1 teaspoon nutmeg 1 teaspoon almond extract 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Pinch kosher salt Zest of 1 lemon 1 ready-made deep-dish pie crust 1 package ready made pie dough 1 large egg yolk, whisked Boil potatoes for 25 minutes.

Mash them and add butter, cream, agave, cinnamon, nutmeg, almond extract, vanilla extract, salt and lemon zest. Put it into the pie crust, brush with egg and then bake for 40 minutes.

1/4 cup white sugar 1 teaspoon cinnamon 1/3 cup butter, melted

Batter:

3 8-ounce packages cream cheese, softened 1 1/4 cups white sugar 2 tablespoons white flour 4 eggs 2 egg yolks only 1/3 cup whipping cream, kept as liquid and do not whip 2 teaspoons vanilla extract Filling: 1 1/2 cup broken Oreo cookies (break each

Chocolate Oreo Cheesecake Courtesy of Melanie Grunwald, of Newhall

“I enjoy it because I love chocolate and it is decadent,” said Melanie Grunwald, “and it freezes well, too.”

Graham Cracker Crust:

1 cup graham cracker crumbs

In Melanie Grunwald’s decadent family cheesecake recipe, the most important ingredients is, of course, the Oreos.

Courtesy Tijana Tix

Graham cracker crust: Mix graham cracker crumbs, white sugar and cinnamon. Add melted butter and mix well. Press into the bottom of a springform pan. Preheat the oven to 425.

Batter: It is important to soften the cream cheese well so when you beat it with the other ingredients so you won’t get lumps in the cooked cheesecake. Unwrap the cream cheese & put them in a bowl, put plastic wrap over top and walk away for 2-4 hours based on the temperature of the house. Do not microwave to soften as it messes up the batter. Put three 8-ounce softened cream cheese, one 1/4 cup white sugar and 2 T white flour in a large bowl. Using an electric beater, mix well. Add 4 eggs, 2 egg yolks, 1/3 cup whipping cream and 2 tsp. vanilla extract. Beat this mixture on medium.

Filling: Stir in gently using a large spoon 1 1/2 cups broken up Oreo cookies. Pour entire mixture into the springform pan and place in an oven preheated to 425 degrees.

Bake for 15 minutes then reduce oven temperature to 250 degrees, and bake for another 60 minutes.

Before taking it out of the oven, insert a clean knife in center of cheesecake — if it comes out clean, move to your next step. If not, cook for another 10 minutes.

Topping: When ready, leave it out of the oven and turn the heat up to 350 degrees.

In a medium bowl, stir two cups of sour cream and 1/4 cup white sugar.

Spread mixture over top of cheesecake and bake 7-10 minutes. As the cheesecake cools, sometimes the sour cream topping cracks a little. Don’t worry, the chocolate glaze covers everything.

D E C E M B E R 1, 2019

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 7

N E W S F E AT U R E S

Shadowland — A passion for the call of the wild

By Emily Alvarenga Signal Staff Writer

they chose him, and he chose us,” Colette said. “He is Shadow’s nephew and the last of her line, so we had to have him. He represents the freedom of the land. He is wild as he can be and as sweet as can be. It took a powerful energy and a powerful soul to start this, and what Shadow started, Freedom will finish.”

P

aul Pondella, who is often referred to as “the Wolf Whisperer,” is more comfortable around wolves than he is people.

In fact, it was his love for animals and the outdoors that led him to where he is today, the founder of a wolf sanctuary in Lake Hughes.

“This has been a lifelong dream since he was just a tyke playing with wild animals, then rescuing them,” Paul’s wife, Colette, said, adding that he dreamed of one day having a place like the Shadowland Foundation. “It would have a big sign saying, ‘Welcome to freedom,’ because that’s how it felt to him, so this is just an extension of who he is and who he has always been.”

The Shadowland Foundation now has a pack of nine wolves with the goal of educating people on these wild animals.

The creation

The dream started to become a reality when Paul got Shadow, a wolf

The education

Paul Pondella, left, and Colette Dovall Pondella sit with wolves from left, Ogin, Chernoa and Freemom during the educational program at Shadowland Foundation in Lake Hughes. PHOTO BY DAN WATSON / THE SIGNAL

that would help kickstart his dream of creating a wolf sanctuary into reality.

“Shadow trusted us to a degree that I’ve never seen (a wolf) allow to trust a human being,” Paul said.

When Shadow was diagnosed with a rare cancer, the Pondellas did everything they could to save her.

Savanna Bushler, 10, holds treats for Takoda, left, and Cochise. PHOTO BY DAN WATSON / THE SIGNAL

By then, they had gotten Alaska and Takoda, and soon they had 11 wolves while living in Studio City.

Needless to say, they were soon evicted and began the search for a property that could house their new pack.

Though Shadow could barely stand without help, the Pondellas loaded her in the truck anyway to go see the property that would soon become her new home, and the beginning of the Shadowland Foundation.

“It was in January and there was snow all over the ground,” Colette said. “I thought I was gonna have to carry Shadow out the back, but she went flying out the door, went running all the way down to the pond, came running all the way back, started rolling in the snow and eating it — she couldn’t have been happier.

We were all standing there bawling.”

“That was the beginning of our journey,” Paul added. “And Shadow knew that she had to lay down the foundation.”

Shadow lived for three years longer than anyone had anticipated, even beating the cancer, but she eventually died from complications the cancer had caused.

The spring after Shadow died, Paul called the sanctuary only to find out that Shadow’s sister was delivering puppies.

“We took Takoda and Alaska, and

“The whole idea was to educate children about wild animals,” Paul said, adding that his ultimate goal was to educate, not eradicate.

“A lot of what we’re doing with this pack is learning as we go,” Colette added.

With the hopes of changing people’s hearts and minds about wolves, they created educational programs that are open to the public where visitors not only get a chance to get up close and personal with the wolves, but can truly interact with them.

Every other Saturday, the foundation invites visitors to come, learn about the history of the sanctuary as well as some of the science and history of wild wolves before getting a chance to play with the pack.

“What I didn’t know is that this is the only creature that man has set out to eradicate on purpose worldwide,” Colette told visitors during the program, then going further into the history. “So by mid-1920s and early 1930s, almost all the wolves in what we call the lower 48 states had been eradicated. We believe there was maybe 10-50 left around World War II, and then they were put on the endangered species list in 1974.”

When wolves were reintroduced to Yellowstone National Park in 1995, it caused unanticipated changes to the ecosystem. By reintroducing the wolf, an apex predator, the entire park began to flourish.

“It wasn’t just that they started to manage the deer and elk population, species that hadn’t been seen in decades starting to appear again — plants, animals and trees that hadn’t been growing. All of a sudden these 66 wolves started to revive the entire

See Shadowland, page 10

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D E C E M B E R 1, 2019

N E W S F E AT U R E

An offer of meals, murder, mystery and more

By Matt Fernandez Signal Staff Writer

F

rom C. Auguste Dupin to Nancy Drew, there are few things more satisfying that a classic “whodunnit” mystery.

How about stepping into the detective’s shoes and cracking the case open yourself? Here are some local upcoming opportunities for Santa Clarita to get their inner “Sherlock Holmes” on, so to speak.

Murder Mystery Dinner Theater at Le Chène

For best results, add food and wine.

Le Chène French Cuisine has hosted murder mystery dinner theater events for the past 25 years, initially using them as a way to draw crowds and fill up the restaurant’s banquet room. After 15 years, Juan Alonso, founder of Le Chène, put the monthly dinner theater productions on hiatus because he felt they were too saturated and not drawing in enough people, but he decided to revive them because he still enjoyed the spectacle.

“When people suggested to me that I host a dinner theater, I said yes because I felt it filled a need for entertainment for the people of Santa Clarita and it was a good business decision,” Alsono said.

About once a quarter, the actors from Sharpo! Entertainment Productions stage an interactive dinner theater at the restaurant, while Le Chene supplies hors d’oeuvres, wine and dinner. Up to 80 participants are seated at tables of 10 and are treated to an interactive show where they can ask the actors questions and try to figure out who the murderer is.

Alonso said that what makes his murder theater events unique is the quality of his food and the adult oriented atmosphere.

“We’re generous with the food and with the wine and though we’re right around the corner in Santa Clarita we’re a destination restaurant,” Alonso said. “My favorite part of hosting these murder mysteries is seeing people smile. I just want them to have fun, have a good dinner and forget about their problems from the week. People love a good mystery and even better, they like to solve a

Le Chène’s classic stone exterior and out-of-the-way locale offers the perfect setting for an evening of murder-mystery excitement. Signal file Photo

Le Chène includes a few props, along with professional actors, to stage an exciting evening amid some of the finest dining available in the Santa Clarita Valley. Courtesy photo Le Chène

mystery with dinner.”

Le Chene French Cuisine will host their New Year’s murder mystery dinner theater on Dec. 31 from 7-10 p.m. at 12625 Sierra Highway, Santa Clarita. Tickets are $150 in advance and non refundable including the dinner and show. Visit lechene.com/ event/new-years-eve-2020-murdermystery-dinner-theater-at-le-chene/ for more details.

CluedUpp Games’ Santa Clarita Detective Day

Fans of Netflix’s “Peaky Blinders” will get a chance to walk the gangsterridden streets of 1920s England without even leaving town.

CluedUpp Games is a United Kingdom based company, will host an outdoor, family- and pet-friendly detective game on January 18, A 2020 called “Sneaky Finders,” loosely based around “Peaky Blinders.”

According to Adrienne Titley, social media and PR coordinator for CluedUpp, the company creates location based detective games.

“Our Sneaky Finders games is a cross between ‘Pokemon Go’ and the ‘Clue’ board game,” said Titley said. “Players have to visit different landmarks in a city and, using our app, they’ll find a witness statement with a clue that they’ll have to solve to eliminate suspects, down to one person and one murder weapon.”

All of the games mechanics and materials have been pre-recorded and are available through the company’s app, which allows players the freedom to play at their own pace, though the game takes on average three hours and there are prizes for the team that completes the game the fastest. There are also competitions for best team photo, best dressed team, best dressed canine, best team name and best child detective and the winners will receive medals.

CluedUpp’s “Sneaky Finders” detective day game will take place on January 18, 2020. Tickets cost $46 per team, and each team can have up to 6 adults with children under 16 able to play for free. For more information, visit cluedupp.com/products/santaclarita-detective-day.

Fillmore & Western Murder Mystery Train Rides Since the golden age of Holly-

wood, murder, mysteries and trains have had a tight relationship, and P. Maxwell Productions is keeping that tradition alive with the help of the FIllmore & Western Railway.

Actor Paula Maxwell, owner of P. Maywell Productions, began doing murder mystery theater productions 24 years ago as a way to do long-form improv shows, rather than the shortform skits that she was used to. She heard a rumor that the railway was looking for shows to entertain their guests, and one of the ideas that Maxwell pitched was a murder mystery show.

What Maxwell believes set her murder-mystery shows apart are their emphasis on music, the quality of their improvisation and inclusion of the guests in the story and, of course, that the show is on a train.

“Music helps make memories and I wanted to make this a memorable experience, so I thought that if I have characters come out and start to sing, then people can instantly connect with them. Our show is performance and entertainment driven, rather than clue driven, and we incorporate what the audience says into our show,” Maxwell said. “The train is part of the personality of the show and it helps it make the show memorable because many people have never been on the show. There is a certain nostalgia attached to trains and trains are romantic, so the show begins for the guests from the moment they set foot on the train.”

Maxwell and the railway offer muder mystery shows about twice a month with themes including the circus, the Rat Pack, 1930s Hollywood and a Western. Each show runs about three hours, and guests have a meal during the show while the train travels from Fillmore to Santa Paula and back. Guests are spread across three cars, with each car having their own separate performance, which keeps things interesting for both actors and guests because each car audience has a different personality.

For a list of available shows visit fwry.com/murdermysterytrains. html. Lunch shows are ages 7 and up and cost $40 for children and $72 for adults. Dinner trains are ages 18+ and cost $90.

D E C E M B E R 1, 2019

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 9

LOCALNEWS

Santa Clarita hosts 20th annual Thanksgiving Community Dinner

By Emily Alvarenga Signal Staff Writer

F

or the 20th year, the city of Santa Clarita hosted its annual Thanksgiving Community Dinner on Monday at the Newhall Community Center.

More than 400 attended the event for the traditional Thanksgiving dinner, complete with turkey, mashed potatoes, stuffing, cranberry sauce and dessert.

“We put this event together to bring the community together and support them through the holiday season,” said Cynthia Muir, Newhall Community Center supervisor, adding that in light of the Nov. 14 shooting at Saugus High School, they hope this can bring the community together. “The city of Santa Clarita and the community are all Saugus Strong, and we grieve with the victims and families for those impacted by this.”

This is the 12th year that Parkway Motorcars co-owners Bob Bakshi and Steve Keefe sponsored the event.

“It doesn’t matter if we’ve had a good year or a bad year, I think both

my partner and I believe as long as we give back, it’s worth it,” Keefe said. “Year after year, I see a lot of the same people, which is great. This chef makes a great turkey dinner, and when you can really give this kind of dinner to people, it’s so important.”

Sisters Abby and Tammy Boucher, who are 13 and 14, respectively, said they looked forward to volunteering this year.

“It feels really good to see the smiles on people’s faces,” Tammy said.

“And it helps us to learn how to help our mom for our family Thanksgiving dinner on Thursday.”

Abby agreed, adding, “I’m definitely coming back next year.”

In addition, more than a dozen volunteers from Triumph Actuation Systems, an aeronautics manufacturer in Valencia, joined in preparing for the event.

“My dad’s been bringing me to this since it started, I think,” Dan Ibarra said, adding that he still brings his dad, who is now 82. “It’s a great way for him to enjoy some time with his grandkids, and we don’t have to cook.”

Santa Clarita City Council member Bill Miranda helps dish up Thanksgiving dinner during the Thanksgiving Community Dinner Monday night at the Newhall Community Center. PHOTO BY CORY RUBIN / THE SIGNAL

Outage effects go beyond the loss of power Family loses home in fire after Community comes together power outage disables water well to protest power shutoffs

By Emily Alvarenga Signal Staff Writer

W

hen there’s a power outage in a typical residential neighborhood, families lose electricity, but that doesn’t generally affect their water.

In more rural areas like Acton, Agua Dulce and parts of Canyon Country, many rely on well water — and those wells use a powered pump to pressurize the system — which means when they lose power, they lose water.

“Water won’t free flow … you need electricity to power it, so without any electricity, we don’t have water,” said David Lamon, a 10-year resident of Husk Avenue, just off Baker Canyon, who lost his home during the Tick Fire.

“So, if you ever look up on the hill and you see those water tanks and wonder why they put them up on the hill,” he added, “they do that because you don’t need electricity to have water pressure because of the gravity.”

Though all of the power lines near their home were updated this summer with new wires that won’t spark, the Lamons, a family of five, were one of the thousands that lost power for 30 hours during the Public Safety Power Shutoffs, or PSPS, for the Red Flag warnings in early October.

On the day of the Tick Fire, the Lamons figured the power was going to get cut, so they were prepared, with only a few perishables in the house, ice in the freezer and an ice chest on the ready. But even then, they weren’t sure.

See POWER, next page

By Emily Alvarenga Signal Staff Writer

D

ozens gathered at the Agua Dulce Town Council meeting Wednesday to share their stories with representatives from Southern California Edison.

For the past month, this community and the surrounding areas have been affected by Edison’s public safety power shutoffs, or PSPS, leaving them without power for days at a time.

“It’s not PSPS, it’s PS-BS,” said state Sen. Scott Wilk, R-Santa Clarita.

“People say this is the new normal, and it’s not acceptable to me — I know it’s not acceptable to you.”

Both Wilk and Assemblywoman Christy Smith, D-Santa Clarita, were in attendance, as well as representa-

tives from Assemblyman Tom Lackey, R-Palmdale, and L.A. County Supervisor Kathryn Barger’s office, not only to support the community, but also to hear residents’ concerns.

After hearing updates from Edison representatives, who explained the decision to shut off power, each attendee was given the chance to speak.

Shawn-e Marlow began by listing a number of concerns caused by the outages, such as the lack of water for animals, no power to run medical equipment, no ways to communicate and loss of food without generators.

“We are helpless in an emergency,” she said. “Many locals are experiencing anxiety and emotional trauma.

This is hitting us like Chinese water See PROTEST, page 11

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D E C E M B E R 1, 2019

LOCALNEWS

POWER

Continued from previous page

“There’s been times where they tell us and then they don’t do it, or they don’t tell us and they do it,” David’s wife, Amy, said.

That morning, the power was once again shut off, so when David and his youngest son, Warner, 11, saw the smoke from the fire coming over the hills, they had no choice but to pack up and leave with no means of protecting their home without water.

At first, he wasn’t too concerned about the house as they frequently clear the brush surrounding their property. “We talk to the firefighters every year, and they always tell us we do a great job … but you never know.

“We just started gathering some things, and I thought we had plenty of time,” he said. “The second time we came out, I realized flames were coming up and over that hill right there … I could feel the heat and we were getting embers and ash (raining down) … I couldn’t even grab the dogs.”

The family also has pigs, sheep, chicken, ducks and cats, none of which David had time to rescue. “He had the leashes in his hand, but they weren’t right there,” Amy added.

Though the Lamons’ next-door neighbor has a gravity-fed water system and was able to save his house with garden hoses, his sheds, which are located near the Lamons’ property, caught fire. While trying to save the sheds, he realized the check valve for his well had melted, essentially draining his well.

“He noticed on this eave right here, on the very corner, was a golf ballsized flame,” David said, adding that with no more water, he had no way of putting it out. “It just so happens that he was here right when the fire started … and he had the hoses in his hand.”

“He called us crying that our home was on fire,” Amy said.

“It’s just a perfect storm of events to where our house burnt down,” David added. “It’s just unbelievable to know that that happened … I mean, we’re at just an amazing disadvantage to not have electricity in these areas when an emergency, like fire, comes through.”

The family spent the night watching their home burn on the news, while one video, which showed the inside of their home as it was on fire, stuck out to them.

“One of the firefighters was taking our picture frames off the walls and putting them in our big green waste containers — they filled two of those — so we lost a lot, but they saved a lot,” Amy said.

One neighbor stayed and fought the fire with buckets of water from their swimming pool and shovels, while another dug fire lines with his tractor. Both were able to save their homes, but others weren’t so lucky.

Though all the gates were cut open when firefighters arrived, all the animals stayed on the property for days until the Lamons were allowed back in the evacuation zone.

Both dogs, June and Murphy, were rescued in the days following the fire.

A photo of June was posted by the Santa Clarita Valley Sheriff ’s Station on social media the day of the fire, and she was taken to the Castaic Animal Care Center for safekeeping while the family worked to find a rental home. Murphy was found hiding in the chicken coop when a rescue came to get the sheep and pigs.

Since the fire, the family has found a home to rent, and come back to the property every day to take care of the animals they couldn’t take with them.

“We have our insurance, and we’re OK,” Amy said. “We’ll have just enough to rebuild.”

The family is working to learn what they can do to prevent this from happening again, such as getting generators, of which they’d need two if they want both water and electricity for the house.

“Our understanding is that Edison wants to do (these PSPS) for the next five to six years,” David said. “We had very little access to information because we had no internet, so we didn’t know that there was a fire until we saw the smoke. That’s my point, in natural disasters, you want to provide electricity for as long as possible, not preemptively shut it off.”

The Lamons are doing everything in their power to raise awareness for this problem.

“If they’re doing this here in California, what’s to stop other power

Agua Dulce resident Amy Lamon holds up a sign blaming Southern California Edison’s Public Safety Power Shutoff policies for the loss of her home in the Tick Fire at the Agua Dulce town council meeting Wednesday night. PHOTO BY EMILY ALVARENGA / THE SIGNAL

companies across the country when hurricanes and tornadoes are coming from saying, ‘Well we’ll just cut power and save ourselves,’” Amy asked. “All (Edison) kept saying was, ‘You just have to be prepared.’”

“It’s just outrageous, and can’t continue,” David added. “We’re just

trying to shed some light on the situation to maybe stop it before it really gets going because it seems like Edison is not the only one that’s responded this way … and there’s no reason for other people to go through similar situations for the coming years.”

SHADOWLAND

continued from page 7

ecosystem of the park, even changing the waterways.”

The fun

After learning some of the history, visitors got the opportunity to meet each of the nine wolves that make up the Shadowland Foundation Pack, while Paul and Colette continued the lessons.

Paul told each person to open their left hand as he gave them a treat to feed Takoda.

“Your left hand is closer to the heart, and they all read heart energy — that’s how they speak,” he said.

Various guests were then able to volunteer to “be fed to the wolves” and they laid down on the stage as Paul covered them with treats for the

wolves to lick off.

Robbie Hulsizer surprised his wife, Therese, who loves wolves, with a visit to the sanctuary.

“I just stumbled upon it,” Robbie said, adding that they drove up from the San Fernando Valley for this. “I really like it, and it’s really interesting to learn about the wolves.”

“It was a really great surprise,” Therese added. “I’ve met wolf dogs before, but this is really great.”

Shadowland Foundation offers a two-hour educational program at 10 a.m. every other Saturday at Ranch Freedom, located at 18832 Pine Canyon Road in Lake Hughes. For more information, visit shadowlandfoundation.org or call (661) 724-0291.

D E C E M B E R 1, 2019

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 1 1

LOCALNEWS

PROTEST

Continued from page 9

torture. We’re going nuts at the slightest breeze.”

Many agreed with Marlow, adding PSPS alerts have them in a “constant state of alarm.”

Marlow apologized for being upset, but said she has gotten no answers from Edison. “Maybe SCE should stop looking at our concerns as complaints and accept them as real-life hardships.”

Many residents are wondering what changed as many have lived in the area for years and have seen their share of high winds.

“Have you increased the voltage in these lines that makes this a greater hazard than it was in the past?” Kevin McGillivray asked the Edison representatives, adding, “30 years of being here, and now, all of a sudden, we have this? It doesn’t make a whole lot of sense to me.”

“We collectively, as a community, want to come up with solutions, and not just hit you with a parade of problems,” McGilliv-ray added before suggesting lowering the voltage in the lines, among other things.

Wendy Rotoli, who lost her home in the Tick Fire, thought she was prepared for a fire. Not only did she clear brush 200 feet around her property, but she also had sprinklers in her home “but without electricity, I have no well and I have no water,” she said.

“How can I be more prepared?” she asked.

Mark Flath, who also recently attended the Acton Town Council Meeting, agreed, adding “be prepared” was the reply he received when he asked what people who live in the community are supposed to do.

“What is being prepared, mean for the elderly, who are in their 50s and 60s, might have health issues and cannot start a generator?” he asked.

Los Angeles County registered nurse Alicia Stern said though Edison assured her that she was on the list to receive PSPS notifications, she did not receive one.

She wants to use this opportunity for neighbors to reach out to one another. “Let’s take care of each other, and use this to figure out who our neighbors are.”

Brylee Flores addressed this in her speech, adding that when a fire does

Erik Takayesu, Southern California Edison vice president of transmission substation operations, speaks at the Agua Dulce Town Council meeting Wednesday night. Many residents at the meeting took issue with Edison’s public safety power shutoffs. PHOTO CORY RUBIN / THE SIGNAL

come, neighbors rely on each other for communication to know when they’ve got to start evacuating large animals, as that is often before they receive mandatory evacuation notices.

“We connect with each other over Facebook and over the phone — all these things that require cell service and internet — and that’s how we stay safe,” Flores said. “When you turn off the power, we have none of that.

We can’t use the resources that this community has built to fight fires, to communicate with each other and to keep each other safe in an emergency situation.”

Erik Takayesu, vice president of transmissions, substation and operations at Edison, said a lot of the ideas brought up in the meeting are things that Edison is currently working on.

“We’re learning very fast, and we’re making improvements every day,” Takayesu said. “I would say we’re better today than we were yesterday.

We’re going to honestly take (these concerns and suggestions) back and do what we can to provide solutions.”

Council President Don Henry urged the Edison representatives to agree to no more shutoffs until they meet again at the next council meeting in January.

“We need to have an assurance that we’re not going to be going through this because these people are suffering,” Henry said.

“Our complaints have been voiced, but the public safety power shutoff still threatens the safety of our com-

munity,” added Brylee Flores. “This will not be the new normal, and the residents of Agua Dulce will stand and shout until Edison comes up with a better solution.”

“We residents refuse to be sitting ducks,” she said. “We aren’t a town known for rolling over, and … our voices will be heard. We will not be quiet until Edison caves to public pressure and puts an end to the public safety shutoffs endangering our community.”

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12 · S U N D AYS I G N A L

D E C E M B E R 1, 2019

FROM THE CITY MANAGER

Make a difference this season by shopping local

By City Manager Ken Striplin

T

he holiday season is a time to give thanks for all we have and make time to give to those less fortunate. Giving is one way to spread holiday cheer, and two of the most impactful gifts you can give during the holiday season are shopping and giving locally. In Santa Clarita, we have many great local shopping opportunities and a number of organizations who do outstanding work to aid our community members. This year, I invite you to support these local organizations, whether it is by shopping at local businesses or helping a local non-profit by making a monetary

donation or a donation of your time.

When you shop locally, you are not only supporting fellow community members in their business and entrepreneurial efforts, you are also contributing to the economic vitality of our City. When you make a local purchase, a portion of the dollars you spend also go back to our community in the form of enriching programs, events and vital infrastructure.

Santa Clarita is a place where businesses grow and flourish, and because of this, many local shopping opportunities are available to residents and visitors alike. The Valencia Westfield Town Center offers a wide range of shopping and dining experiences and if you are looking to surprise someone with the ultimate holiday gift … like a brand new car with a huge red ribbon — then the

Valencia Auto Center is your onestop-shop. They have more than 20 dealerships offering new and used cars. Old Town Newhall is another vibrant place to explore, with its numerous arts and entertainment opportunities and diverse group of small businesses offering unique items.

Shopping local is a great way to give back to your community, and giving local is important as well.

There are many charitable organizations in Santa Clarita who aid the City’s residents. Monetary donations are always appreciated, but another meaningful way to show your support is by volunteering. I know the holidays can be hectic, but one of the best holiday gifts you can give is your time. These organizations that help so many in our community can

always use extra support, especially during the holidays. If you are looking for ideas about where to volunteer, visit the “Community Links and Service Clubs” page at santa-clarita. com to view a list of charitable organizations in our community.

By giving back to our own community, we can help ensure that Santa Clarita continues to be a wonderful place to live, work and play. Whether it is by shopping local or helping those whose mission is to help others, we can work together to make a difference this holiday season.

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

F R O M T H E C I T Y M AY O R

Holiday events are comin’ to town

By Mayor Marsha McLean

T

here’s a chill in the air, and Santa Clarita is embracing it with the warmth of holiday cheer. The holidays bring friends and the community together to share experiences in the most joyous of seasons. I can think of no better way to spend time with loved ones than walking down Main Street in Old Town Newhall marveling at the gorgeous displays of sparkling lights that made their grand debut at the City’s annual Light Up Main Street event last week.

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The Santa Clarita Public Library has what you need for your next adventure, and is the perfect place to get into the holiday spirit with sweets and storytime. Whether it’s building gingerbread houses, decorating holiday-themed cookies or finding a cozy spot on the rug for Hanukkah storytime, there is something for everyone! Visit SantaClaritaLibrary.com to view a fully interactive calendar of events happening at our three library branches in Canyon Country, Valen-

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Our City facilities will be opening their doors to host multiple events as well. The Canyon Country Community Center invites you to holiday-themed events including, Hot Cocoa and a Movie on Friday, December 6 and Milk and Cookies with Santa on December 10 and 12, with a sensory-friendly version the following week on Monday, December 16.

Don’t forget to stop by The MAIN in Old Town Newhall, where you can enjoy acts including Comedy Mashup — which makes its return for another great evening of comedy and improv on Friday, December 6. This group of comedians congregate in Santa Clarita, providing a night filled with stand up and improv comedy. At The MAIN from December 13 through the 22 is A Cowboy Christmas Carol.

This show is a rip-roarin’ twist on the classic Dickens tale filled with music, dancing and lots of holiday spirit that you don’t want to miss. For a list of upcoming shows and events, visit atthemain.org.

Next on our list of festive events is the City’s Annual Holiday Light Tour, which allows residents to view some of our City’s best displays of holiday

décor from December 20 through 22.

For only $3 or FREE with a canned food donation, residents can board the City’s classic wood trolley for nearly an hour of nonstop fun with friends and family. Tickets can be purchased upon boarding the trolley at the McBean Regional Transit Center with rides beginning at 6:00 p.m. For additional information, including suggested donations, visit SantaClaritaTransit.com.

All of these events are wonderful ways to connect with your family, friends and community. This time of year reminds us to reflect on the blessings we have. As your Mayor, I take pride in the numerous projects and programs that make Santa Clarita such a wonderful place to live. I would like to take this opportunity to wish you and your loved ones a safe and happy holiday season and New Year filled with peace, love and joy.

Mayor Marsha McLean is a member of the Santa Clarita City Council and can be reached at mmclean@ santa-clarita.com. The views expressed in her column are those of the city and do not necessarily reflect those of The Signal.

D E C E M B E R 1, 2019

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 1 3

H O L I D AY

Finding and maintaining your perfect Christmas tree

By Michele E. Buttelman Signal Staff Writer

D

ouglas Fir? Noble Fir? Fraser Fir? Scotch Pine? What is your perfect Christmas tree?

Will only a fresh cut, real tree do? Do you choose a living tree and plant it outside after the holidays? Or do you prefer the artificial, pre-lit tree that offers little muss or fuss?

Christmas tree selection is as individual as the person, or family, making the selection. Many factors go into making a selection of the perfect Christmas tree — price, space, lifestyle and aesthetics.

When my daughter was little, we would visit a cut-your-own tree lot located in the Valencia Industrial Center. It was great fun deciding which tree was the correct size and shape for our Canyon Country living room. We learned, through experience, that size of the tree trunk was important, as was the vertical “straightness” of the tree.

Fresh trees

More than 30 million “real” Christmas trees were purchased last holiday season according to the National Christmas Tree Association.

More than a quarter of the trees were purchased from “choose and cut” lots with the balance of trees purchased at retail centers or youth organization fundraisers.

Measure your space. Trees look smaller when the sky is the ceiling. Make sure to think about width, as well as height.

Think about what type of decorations you will be using. If you have heavy or long ornaments make sure the branches can bear the weight of your ornaments and there is enough spacing between branches so your long, or oversize ornaments can hang freely.

Learn about the different species of trees. There are at least 16 different species of trees commonly sold as Christmas trees. To learn about tree varieties, visit https://realchristmastrees.org/dnn/ Education/Tree-Varieties Ask questions about the trees at the lot. Ask the retailer where the trees were grown, when were they delivered to the lot, what tree does best in the SCV and what trees last the longest.

Do a branch/needle test for freshness. Run a branch through your enclosed hand, the needles should not come off easily. Bend the outer branches, they should be pliable. If they are brittle and snap easily, the tree is too dry.

Where to buy your tree

There are many choices for Santa Clarita Valley families to purchase trees.

The holidays are a busy time for many families.

However, the Christmas tree may be your most important holiday purchase. Take time to make Christmas tree selection a family affair. Christmas tree lots open the day after Thanksgiving in the SCV.

Frosty’s Forest Christmas Tree Farm 25235 Orchard Village Road, Valencia (661) 259-6450 Frosty’s Forest Christmas Tree Farm is one of the last cut-your-own Christmas tree farms in Southern California. Take your family and roam through a four-acre forest to find and cut your own perfect tree. Frosty’s also sells a variety of containerized living Christmas trees such as Blue Spruce, Monterey Pine, Cedar Deodar and Eldarica Pine. Pre-cut Noble and Nordmann firs are also available. Enjoy Christmas holiday music, free hot chocolate on cold nights, giant inflatables and Christmas decorations throughout the farm, and free candy cane treats.

Nancy’s Ranch 25039 Magic Mountain Parkway Valencia Info: nancysranch.com/project/ christmas-trees Nancy’s Ranch is “Tree-Fresh Certified” by the California Christmas Tree Association and offers firs in all sizes and varieties including Grand, Fraser, Silver, Noble, Nordmann and Douglas.

The Roatcap family has been in the Christmas tree business for 47 years, growing trees in years past and lately importing a variety of fresh cut firs from the Pacific Northwest. All are guaranteed to be fresh at Christmas. Visit their website for a discount coupon.

Green Thumb Nursery 23734 Newhall Ave., Santa Clarita Info greenthumb.com Green Thumb is a family-owned local lot that prides itself on being a “full-service operation.” The company has been helping Santa Clarita Valley families find a tree for nearly 50 years, and in addition to a wealth of experience, the lot offers Douglas, Noble and Nordman firs, which come fresh from the Pacific Northwest.

Green Thumb will offer help picking the tree, taking it down, “netting” the tree to make it easier to transport and then loading it on top of the family station wagon.

Sugar Plum Express Weekends thru Dec. 22 Fillmore & Western Railway 364 Main St., Fillmore Info fwry.com/holidaytrains.html Make choosing your Christmas tree an adventure with the Sugar Plum Express Holiday Village and Tree Train. Take a short train ride to Christmas Village from the Santa Paula station. Visit and take photos with Santa, stroll through the Winter Wonderland walk-thru, buy goodies and gifts, see Santa’s workshop, let the

kids play on the Holiday Jolly Jumper and carousel rides and choose a pre-cut tree to take home (optional). Koi pond, goats, pigs and birds.

How to Care for Your Tree

The National Christmas Tree Association offers these tips to keep your tree fresh and green throughout the holiday season.

When a Christmas tree is cut, more than half its weight is water. The most important tip is to make sure you have a stand that contains a good supply of water. Reservoir stands are best.

Once home make a fresh cut to remove about a 1/2-inch thick disk of wood from the base of the trunk and place the tree immediately in water.

Check your tree twice a day to make sure there is enough water in the tree stand. Keep trees away from sources of heat.

Use of lights that produce low heat, such as miniature lights, reduce drying of the tree.

14 · S U N D AYS I G N A L

D E C E M B E R 1, 2019

SPORTS

Saugus High runs on tradition of excellence

By Diego Marquez Signal Staff Writer

H

annah Fredericks and the Saugus girls cross country team began the 2019 cross-country season as the No. 2-ranked girls team in the CIF-Southern Section Division 1 with one phrase in mind: continuing a decade of excellence.

Entering the season, the Saugus girls cross-country country team had won 13 straight Foothill League titles and looked to be in line to win its 14th with runners like Fredericks, Hailey Rutter, Isabella Duarte and Danielle Salcedo.

“I think we talk a lot of continuing the decade of excellence that has been set before us and all the other amazing teams that have accomplished so much for Saugus,” Fredericks said.

“When I go out and race and when we are on the starting line as a team, we try to think about the people that have come before us and done so

Hannah Fredericks of Saugus wins the varsity girls 3-mile race at Central Park in September. Dan Watson/The Signal

well. Along with us running for ourselves and our coaches, we are also running for them and trying to keep the decade-old excellence going.”

Using the extra motivation, Fredericks and the team stayed consistent throughout the year, dropping

outside of the top 2 in the CIF-SS Division 1 rankings twice throughout the season.

While Saugus as a team won the Palos Verde Mini-Meet and finished second at the Asics/Cool Breeze Invite to begin the season, it wasn’t until the BYU Autumn Classic that Fredericks found her stride, finishing as the top Centurions girls runner, while the team finished seventh in the 260-runner field.

From that point on, Fredericks was locked in.

Fredericks took top honors at the first Foothill League meet in 18 minutes, 4.12 seconds and placed second at 5,000-meter The Master’s University’s XC Invitational in 17:59.1. The Saugus girls team finished first in both meets.

Fredericks followed the top-two finishes with her second first-place finish of the season at the 2019 SCV XC Invite in 17:09.68, helping the team its fourth win in six races.

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College XC Invitational, Fredericks hit a little bit of speed bump finishing 13th overall, while the team finished second, ahead of the Foothill League finals.

Fredericks entered the final regular-season meet confident in her abilities and understanding that she had to stick to her gameplan and stay relaxed in order to earn low time and finish high.

Staying true to her word and form, Fredericks bested her time in the first league meet by almost a full-nine seconds in 17:55.22 to earn her third first-place time and be crowned the Foothill League’s top individual girls runner, while the Saugus girls team won its 14th consecutive league title.

“I think our team has grown a lot in the team aspect,” Fredericks said.

“Ever since summer training, we had an end goal in mind and really have been training the whole season for that, and it’s crazy that we are already getting to the point.”

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D E C E M B E R 1, 2019

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 1 5

TECHNOLOGY

Remember that? A home-technology time machine

By Kim Komando Signal Contributing Writer

I

f you compare the inside of a modern home to one from about 25 years ago, you’re going to notice some stark differences — not just the phone book on the kitchen counter. Rapid advancements in tech over the past two decades have had an impact on everything from the way we communicate to the conveniences of home life.

While you expect some household staples to change from generation to generation, things that were part of an average home for decades are now unnecessary.

Some changes to the modern home are small, while other new gadgets might make you wonder how you ever lived without them.

1. Dial-up, anyone?

What do rotary-dial and cordless

phones have in common? It’s that you won’t find either in most houses these days. Unless you live in a rural area, wireless and cellular technology, like 3G, 4G LTE and the latest 5G network, has eliminated the need for landline phones.

And since you don’t need a home phone any longer, then you probably don’t need those landline jacks around your house, either. Unless you depend on a dial-up modem that requires an RJ11 connection, remove the jack, spackle the hole in the wall and call it a day.

can even be taken a step further.

You can also set up routines to make turning on lights in a certain area or in your whole house way easier.

2. Lights on, lights off

4. ‘Is anyone there?’

It wasn’t long ago when the Clapper, which (as the name suggests) allowed you to turn lights on and off by clapping your hands, was seemingly cutting-edge technology. It also wasn’t widely adopted.

Now when you want to avoid walking all the way over to the light switch, you’ve got options from smart bulbs to smart speakers with voice assistants like Alexa. The convenience

3. Losing control

Fighting over who gets the remote is so yesterday. What’s worse is always managing to lose it somewhere in the couch cushions or under the recliner.

With today’s technology, everyone has a personal remote: their smartphone. With the right app for your TV, you can control everything from the volume to recording your favorite shows.

If you were fortunate enough to have a large house back in the day, you most likely had an intercom system. This upgraded dinner bell, although useful, wasn’t much better than people yelling at whoever was up or downstairs.

Want the kids to rise from their video games in the basement? Message them via group text. SMS has made connecting easy, whether it be

from a world away or simply down a flight of stairs. Better yet, turn your smart speakers into your new home intercom system.

5. Cable boxes

Though cable boxes have reduced in size over the years, the need to fuss with them remained. There were a host of challenges like ensuring your remote was pointed at the box at the right angle, or pressing the reset button when service was on the fritz.

But with smart TVs and streaming devices, cable boxes are a thing of the past. Now you can find all of your favorite shows and movies through options like Netflix, Hulu and Amazon Prime Video, along with newcomers Disney+ and Apple TV+.

For information on Kim Komando on today’s digital lifestyle, from smartphones and tablets to online privacy and data hacks, visit her at Komando. com.

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AMERICAN

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D E C E M B E R 1, 2019

Brooklyn Bar & Grill 25860 McBean Parkway, Valencia (661) 284-6057 Claim Jumper 25740 The Old Road, Valencia (661) 254-2628 Crazy Otto’s Diner 25373 Wayne Mills Place, Valencia (661) 291-1733 The Daily Harvest Cafe & Juicery 22722 Lyons Ave #6, Newhall (661) 383-9387 Eat Real Cafe 23414 Lyons Avenue, Newhall (661) 254-2237 27530 Newhall Ranch Road, Valencia (661) 254-2237

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Saddle Ranch Chop House 24201 Valencia Blvd., Valencia (661) 383-0173

Islands 24180 Valencia Blvd, Valencia (661) 284-5903

Salt Creek Grille 24415 Town Center Drive, Valencia (661) 222-9999

Lazy Dog Cafe 24201 Valencia Blvd., Valencia (661) 253-9996

Souplantation 24303 Town Center Drive, Valencia (661) 286-1260

The Local Pub & Grill 26876 The Old Road Stevenson Ranch Ca 91381 661.495.9192

Stonefire Grill 23300 Cinema Drive, Valencia (661)799-8282

Mama’s Table 23340 Cinema Dr, Santa Clarita (661) 284-5988

The Cheesecake Factory 24250 Town Center Dr #110, Valencia, CA 91355 (661) 286-1232

Marston’s Restaurant 24011 Newhall Ranch Road, Valencia (661) 253-9910

The Old Town Junction 24275 Main Street, Newhall (661) 702-4888

Nealie’s Skillet 25858 Tournament Road, Valencia (661) 678-0031

The Social 23329 Lyons Ave, Ste A, Valencia (661) 799-9155

Newhall Refinery 24258 Main St, Newhall (661) 388-4477

Thelma’s Cafe 22876 Copperhill Drive, Saugus (661) 263-8283

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D E C E M B E R 1, 2019

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 17

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Crazy Otto’s Diner 25373 Wayne Mills Place, Valencia (661) 291-1733 Egg Plantation 24415 Walnut Street, Newhall (661) 255-8222

BREWERIES

Lucille’s Bar-B-Que 24201 West Valencia Blvd, Valencia (661) 255-1227

Eggs N Things 27560 Newhall Ranch Road, Valencia (661) 702-8664

Q&Q Hawaiian BBQ 27530 Newhall Ranch Road #101, Santa Clarita (661) 383-9098

Halfway House 15564 W. Sierra Highway, Saugus (661) 251-0102

Rattler’s BBQ 26495 Golden Valley Road, Canyon Country (661) 251-4195 Smokehouse on Main 24255 Main St, Old Town Newhall (661) 888-4585 Wood Ranch Bar-B-Que & Grill 25580 The Old Road, Stevenson Ranch (661) 222-9494

BREAKFAST & BRUNCH Casa Canela 27647 Bouquet Canyon Road, Santa Clarita (661) 523-7282

Way Station Coffee Shop 24377 Main Street, Newhall (661) 255-0222

BJ’s Restaurant 24320 Town Center Drive, Valencia (661) 288-1299 Oggi’s Pizza & Brewing Co. 18810 Soledad Canyon Road, Canyon Country (661) 252-7883 Pocock Brewing Company 24907 Avenue Tibbits, Valencia (661) 775-4899

Mama’s Table 23340 Cinema Dr, Santa Clarita (661) 284-5988 Marston’s Restaurant 24011 Newhall Ranch Road, Valencia (661) 253-9910 Mimi’s Cafe 24201 Magic Mountain Parkway, Valencia (661) 255-5520 The Old Town Junction 24257 Main Street, Newhall (661) 702-4888 Saugus Cafe 25861 Railroad Avenue, Saugus (661) 259-7886

Wolf Creek Restaurant & Brewing Co. 27746 N. McBean Parkway, Valencia (661) 263-9653

BURGERS/SANDWICHES

Everest Burgers 18645 Soledad Canyon Road Santa Clarita, CA 91351 (661) 252-3412 Final Score 23754 Lyons Ave, Santa Clarita (661) 254-6557 Firehouse Subs 23630 Valencia Blvd. Valencia (661) 255-3473 Five Guys 24201 W, Valencia Blvd #3672, Valencia (661) 255-0981 Italia Panetteria & Deli 27674 Newhall Ranch Road, Valencia (661) 294-9069

Brother’s Burgers 20655 Soledad Canyon (661) 299-9278

Jimmy Dean’s 22941 Lyons Ave, Newhall (661) 255-6315

Burgerim 23740 Lyons Ave, Santa Clarita (661) 670-8939

11:30-3 d pm

Voted Best Oriental Cuisine

Dinner Special

FREE ORDER OF EGGROLLS

with purchase of $30 & up Not Valid with any other offer Expires 12/20/19

Open 7 Days: Sun-Thur. 11:30am to 9:00pm, Fri & Sat 11:30am to 9:30pm

661.253.1898 | 23802 Lyons Ave, Newhall www.grandpandalyons.com

Cousins Burgers 19318 Soledad Canyon Road, Canyon Country (661) 298-4200

Bricks 23820 Lyons Ave, Newhall (661) 286-1091

LUN H SPECIC A serve LS

Since 1988 Lunch ~ Dinner ~ Food to Go Catering ~ Party room

Corner Bakery 24290 Valencia Blvd, Valencia (661) 259-2813

JJ’s Bar and Grill 25848 Tournament Road, Valencia (661) 799-7557 Continued next page

18 · S U N D AYS I G N A L

D E C E M B E R 1, 2019

DININGGUIDE Continued from previous page

BURGERS/SANDWICHES

Grand Panda 23802 Lyons Avenue, Newhall (661) 253-1898 27924 Seco Canyon Road, Saugus (661) 297-9868

Panini Palace 23120 Lyons Ave., Santa Clarita (661) 678-0552 Pita Pit 28253 Newhall Ranch Road (661) 702-9977

Mandarin Wong Chinese Restaurant 23758 Lyons Avenue, Newhall (661) 259-5823

Red Robin 27063 McBean Parkway, Valencia (661) 260-2411 Route 66 Classic Grill 18730 Soledad Canyon Rd, Cyn Country (661) 298-1494

Moon Wok 23460 Cinema Drive Suite H, Valencia (661) 288-1898 New Moon 28281 Newhall Ranch Road, Valencia (661) 257-4321

Rustic Burger 24025 Newhall Ranch Road, Valencia (661) 254-1300

Pei Wei Asian Diner 24250 Valencia Boulevard, Valencia 661-600-0132

Rustic Eatery 25343 Wayne Mills Place, Valencia (661) 254-8100

Pick Up Stix 25960 The Old Road, Stevenson Ranch (661) 288-2090

Submarina California Subs 26517 Carl Boyer Drive, Canyon Country (661) 259-4782

WaBa Grill 19120 Soledad Canyon Road, Canyon Country (661) 367-7297 31739 Castaic Road, Castaic (661) 295 9222

The Habit 25948 N. McBean Parkway, Valencia (661) 291-1575 23120 Lyons Ave, Santa Clarita (661) 678-0552 Tiny’s Submarine Sandwiches 27251 Camp Plenty Rd, Canyon Country (661) 251-5885

CHINESE China Express 19417 Soledad Canyon Rd, Cyn Country (661) 251-8783

Wok’s Cookin’ Chinese Restaurant 31565 Castaic Road, Castaic (661) 257-2890

DELICATESSEN

Genghis Khan 24506 W. Lyons Avenue, Newhall 661-254-0351 Golden Wok Restaurant 16668 Soledad Canyon Rd, Cyn Country (661) 424-0888

Cathy’s Delicatessen 23120 W. Lyons Avenue, Newhall (661) 288-2217

Pierogi, Sausages, Stuffed Cabbage Rolls, Chicken, Beef Stew, Hunter Stew and more!

Bonsai Garden 19358 Soledad Canyon Rd, Cyn Country (661) 251-9008

Maria’s Italian-American Deli 22620 W. Lyons Avenue, Newhall (661) 259-6261

Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ Dining 27025 McBean Pkwy, Valencia (661) 254-2355 Hibiki Restaurant 27625 Shangri La Dr., Canyon Country (661) 298-0273

The Sandwich Shop 25530 W. Avenue Stanford, Valencia (661) 257-4811

FRENCH Le Chene French Cuisine 12625 Sierra Highway, Agua Dulce (661) 251-4315

GREEK Gyromania 20655 Soledad Canyon Rd, Santa Clarita (661) 252-4976

INDIAN An Indian Affaire 23360 W. Valencia Blvd, Valencia (661) 288-1200 Karma Restaurant, Bar & Lounge 23460 Cinema Drive, Valencia (661) 288-0080 Royal Tandoor 26532 Bouquet Canyon Rd, Santa Clarita (661) 263-7100

CUBAN Hidden Havana Cuban Cafe 23548 Lyons Avenue, Newhall (661) 254-4460

Bob’s Country Meats 19012 Soledad Canyon Road, Canyon Country (661) 251-5995

NOW OPEN

Italia Panetteria & Deli 27674 Newhall Ranch Road, Valencia (661) 294-9069

CATERING for any occasion

ITALIAN Bella Cucina Ristorante Italiano 27911 Seco Canyon Rd, Saugus (661) 263-1414 Buca di Beppo 26940 Theater Drive, Valencia (661) 253-1900 Italia Panetteria & Deli 27674 Newhall Ranch Road, Valencia (661) 294-9069 Maria’s Italian-American Deli 22620 Lyons Ave, Newhall (661) 259-6261 Olive Garden 27003 McBean Parkway, Valencia (661) 799-8161

delivery or pickup!

Piccola Trattoria 18302 Sierra Highway, Canyon Country (661) 299-6952

Hours: Mon - Closed Tues - Fri: 11-3; 5-9 Sat - Sun: 11-9

Presto Pasta 24375 Magic Mountain Pkwy, Valencia (661) 284-7737

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26511 Golden Valley Rd, Santa Clarita 91350 661.254.4850 • pierogispot.com

JAPANESE & SUSHI Achita Sushi 22913 Soledad Canyon Rd, Santa Clarita (661) 476-5522

I Love Sushi 26526 Bouquet Canyon Rd, Santa Clarita 661-673-5200 Kabuki 24045 Newhall Ranch Road, Valencia (661) 799-8655 Kisho Japanese Teppan Grill & Revolving Sushi Bar 23430 Valencia Blvd, Valencia (661) 284-3856 Masa Ramen 27051 McBean Pkwy, #101, Valencia (661) 254-4229 My Hot Pot 26238 Bouquet Canyon Rd, Santa Clarita (661) 288-1998 Shogun Sushi Japanese Restaurant 26807 Seco Canyon Rd, Santa Clarita (661) 513-0015 Sushi 661 26850 Sierra Hwy, Santa Clarita (661) 252-983 Sushi Song Japanese Restaurant 22896 Copper Hill Dr, Santa Clarita (661) 297-5659

KOREAN & MONGOLIAN Charcoal Korean BBQ Restaurant 19158 Soledad Canyon Rd, Cyn Country (661) 251-9292 Genghis Khan 24506 W. Lyons Avenue, Newhall (661) 254-0351 Gogi House 26524 Bouquet Canyon Road, Saugus (661) 263-0048 Kogiya 2 Korean BBQ 23410 Lyons Ave, Santa Clarita (661) 678-0999 Lee’s Korean BBQ & Tofu House 23360 West Valencia Blvd, Valencia (661) 254-2307 ZingGa Grill 26910 Sierra Hwy, Santa Clarita (661) 250-7592

D E C E M B E R 1, 2019

MEDITERRANEAN

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 19

PIZZA

Cafe O 20655 Soledad Canyon Rd, Cyn Country (661) 424-0401

Ameci Pizza & Pasta 28013 Seco Canyon, Santa Clarita (661) 296-6131

Flame & Skewers 25870 McBean Parkway, Valencia (661) 799-7538

Chi Chi’s Pizza 27117 Sierra Highway, Canyon Country (661) 252-4405

Grill Kabob 27653 Bouquet Canyon Road, Saugus (661) 263-7445

23043 Soledad Canyon Road, Saugus (661) 259-4040

Kebab House 24201 Valencia Blvd, Valencia (661) 799-5844 Manoushee Mediterranean Restaurant 27131 Sierra Hwy, Canyon Country (661) 251-6666 Olive Terrace Cafe 28261 Newhall Ranch Road, Valencia (661) 257-7860 Sam’s Flaming Grill 24802 Orchard Village, Santa Clarita (661) 222-9060 19433 Soledad Canyon Rd, Santa Clarita (661) 298-0115 25347 Wayne Mills Pl, Valencia (661) 254-2154 23874 Copper Hill Dr, Valencia (661) 294-1100 Zankou Chicken 24463 Magic Mountain Pkwy, Valencia (661) 705-7265

MEXICAN Azul Tequila 25387 Wayne Mills Place, Valencia (661) 254-5500 El Trocadero Mesquite Grill & Cantina 24274 Main Street, Newhall (661) 284-6615 La Charrita Restaurant 24225 Main St, Newhall (661) 288-1204 La Cocina Bar & Grill 28022 Seco Canyon Road, Saugus (661) 297-4546 Las Rocas Mexican Grill 27923 Sloan Canyon Road Castaic (661) 257-6905 Medrano’s Mexican Restaurant 19319 Soledad Canyon Rd, Santa Clarita (661) 367-4945

Guido’s Pizza & Pasta 26322 N. Friendly Valley Parkway, Newhall (661)252-4111 Magic Pizza SCV 26870 The Old Road, Stevenson Ranch (661) 291-1921 Mama Mia Pizza 25708 The Old Road, Stevenson Ranch (661) 286-9183

Home Made Flavor, Home Made Desserts

Weekend Breakfast Special Fri, Sat + Sun

8 oz. New York Steak and Eggs $14.99 8 oz. Rib Eye Steak and Eggs $17.99

Homemade Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Made with Mama’s Love!

Numero Uno Pizza 26111 Bouquet Canyon Road, Saugus (661) 259-3895 Pieology Pizzeria 28295 Newhall Ranch Road, Valencia (661)678-0234

Homemade Cooking!

Pizza Di Marco 27674 Newhall Ranch Rd, Valencia 661-295-8769 Tomato Joes Pizza & Taps 19167 Golden Valley Road, Santa Clarita (661) 250-7550 (805) 385-4444 Toppers Pizza 23710 Valencia Blvd, Santa Clarita (805) 385-4444

POLISH Pierogi Spot 26511 Golden Valley Road, Santa Clarita (661) 254-4850

THAI Original Thai BBQ Restaurant 27530 Newhall Ranch Road, Valencia (661) 257-6421

VIETNAMESE Pho Sure 23876 Copper Hill Drive, Valencia (661) 257-3888

4 Homemade Soups Served Daily Chicken w/Brown Rice, French Onion, Clam Chowder, Taco Tortilla Sen

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661.284.5988

23340 Cinema Dr Valencia CA 91355 www.himamastable.com

online order by Postmates • DoorDash • Uber Eats

20 · S U N D AYS I G N A L

D E C E M B E R 1, 2019

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

The Sweet returns to Canyon Santa Clarita

By Perry Smith Sunday Signal Editor

S

ince putting the band back together 11 years ago, the group of musicians who rose to fame after penning the timeless jukebox favorite, “Ballroom Blitz,” have been on a bit of a tear themselves.

The band’s well-celebrated catalogue includes fun rock ’n’ roll hits

like “Fox On The Run,” “Love Is Like Oxygen,” “Little Willy,” “Action,” “Teenage Rampage,” “ACDC,” Blockbuster” and “Hell Raiser” are all expected to be some of the favorites the group plays when they come to town on Sunday, Dec. 8.

The British rock group’s music has such a classic sound, it’s still getting picked up and used in TV and movies, most recently on the “Guardians

of the Galaxy 2” soundtrack and more recently, Suicide Squad.”

The show that’s now touring includes original members, according to Canyon Santa Clarita’s website.

“Sweet’s lineup is founding member Steve Priest on bass and vocals, drummer Richie Onori, Stevie Stewart on keyboards and vocals, guitar virtuoso Mitch Perry and lead singer Paulie Z.” Since reuniting in 2008, The Sweet

has toured the world and played hundreds of shows. including a South American tour with Journey, Boston, Sammy Hagar and Joan Jett.

Find the Canyon Santa Clarita on the ground floor of the Westfield Valencia Town Center. Get tickets at the box office 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday – Saturday, by phone at (888) 645-5006, or via Ticket Master.com. For more info, visit Where musicmeetstheSoul.com.

D E C E M B E R 1, 2019

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 2 1

Entertainment

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

“Disney’s Frozen: The Broadway Musical” at the Pantages Theatre (left) and the Los Angeles Ballet’s “Nutcracker” are two of the great opportunities to celebrate the holidays around Los Angeles. PHOTOS COURTESY BROADWAY LA (left) AND THE LOS ANGELES BALLET.

By Michele E. Buttelman Signal Staff Writer

F

rom “A Christmas Carol” to “The Nutcracker Ballet” holiday entertainment throughout Southern California offers something for everyone.

Dec. 4 to Feb. 22 “Disney’s Frozen: The Broadway Musical” Pantages Theatre, 6233 Hollywood Blvd.

Hollywood Info hollywoodpantages.com/events/detail/frozen The much-anticipated Broadway musical, “Disney’s Frozen,” adapted from the 2013 blockbuster movie lands at the Pantages Theatre in Hollywood just in time for the holidays. Take the family as a special “early” holiday present, or give tickets as a special holiday gift to be opened on Christmas morning.

“A Christmas Carol”

The ultimate holiday show is “A Christmas Carol.”

The story of Scrooge, Bob Cratchit, Tiny Tim and his visits with the Christmas “ghosts” is a family favorite. There are multiple opportunities to catch this holiday classic in the Southland this season.

Now through Dec. 24 Glendale Centre Theatre, 324 N. Orange St. Glendale Info glendalecentretheatre.com Dec. 4 through 23 A Noise Within Theatre, 3352 E Foothill Blvd.

Pasadena Info anoisewithin.org/play/carol-2019 Dec. 5 through 22 “A Christmas Carol with Charles Dickens” Independent Shakespeare Co., 3191 Casitas Ave. Ste 130, Los Angeles Info iscla.org/in-the-studio

Dec. 6 through 22 Long Beach Playhouse, 5021 E. Anaheim St. Long Beach Info lbplayhouse.org/show/a-christmas-carol2019 Dec. 6 through 24 South Coast Repertory, Segerstrom Stage, 655 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa Info scr.org/calendar/view?id=11048 Dec. 7 through 22 “A Christmas Carole King,” El Portal Theatre, 5269 Lankershim Blvd., North Hollywood Info dola.com/events/2019/12/7/a-christmascarole-king-tickets Troubadour Theater Company combines the soulful sounds of songstress Carole King with one of the most enduring stories of our time, Charles Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol” for a truly unique holiday experience.

Dec. 14 through Jan. 12 “A Twisted Christmas Carol,” NoHo Arts District, Lonny Chapman Theatre, Second Floor, 10900 Burbank Blvd., North Hollywood Info thegrouprep.com The Group Rep presents a world premiere comedy as a Texas style spoof of Charles Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol.”

“Nutcracker Ballet”

The greater Los Angeles area offers many, many productions of the “Nutcracker Ballet” this season.

Be enchanted by the Sugar Plum Fairy, Uncle Drosselmeyer, dancing snow flakes and flowers, Mother Ginger and the Nutcracker, himself.

Los Angeles Ballet’s “The Nutcracker” will present this family holiday tradition, with the breath-taking music of Peter Ilyich Tchaikovsky, at a variety of venues throughout Los Angeles County.

Info losangelesballet.org/the-nutcracker

Dec. 7-8 Alex Theatre, 216 N. Brand Blvd, Glendale Info alextheatre.org/events Dec. 13-15 Royce Hall, UCLA, 10745 Dickson Court Los Angeles Info happenings.ucla.edu/all/event/280528 Dec. 20-24 Dolby Theatre with Los Angeles Ballet Orchestra, 6801 Hollywood Blvd., Hollywood Info dolbytheatre.com/events/details/ the_nutcracker_3 Dec. 28-29 Redondo Beach Performing Arts Center 1935 Manhattan Beach Blvd., Redondo Beach Info www.redondo.org/cals/rbpac.asp

… and More Dec. 15 Voctave: The Spirit of the Season The Soraya, 18111 Nordhoff St., Northridge Info thesoraya.org/calendar/details/voctave This 11-member all-American acapella group has performed all over the world and will perform a selection of holiday classics with their signature rich harmonies and warm melodies.

Dec. 21 Handel’s Messiah Walt Disney Concert Hall, 111 South Grand Ave., LA, 90012 Info lamasterchorale.org/messiah This holiday classic is performed each festive season at concert halls around the world. The composition, which is an oratorio, tells the story of the life of Jesus Christ through choruses sung by a choir and contains one of the most famous choruses in classical music “Hallelujah.”

22 · S U N D AYS I G N A L

D E C E M B E R 1, 2019

THIS WEEK’S CALENDAR

ONGOING Daily through Jan. 12 Join the L.A. Kings for their Holiday Ice Rink!

Make the most out of the holiday season by skating with your family and friends at Westfield Valencia Town Center! Skate rental included in general admission ticket.

General admission $17, Seniors and children 6 and below $14. 24201 West, Valencia Blvd, Valencia. Info: lakingsholidayice.com/ westfield-valencia/ Saturdays, 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. California farmers and specialty food purveyors come together rain or shine, to bring you a farmers’ market with the finest in fresh and seasonal fruits and vegetables, including organic, baked goods, flowers, herbs, cheeses and prepared foods. Old Town Newhall, 24500 Main St., Newhall. Info: oldtownnewhall. com/old-town-newhall-farmers-market Mondays, 11-11:45 a.m. Saturdays, 10:30-11:45 a.m. Want a more enchanting way to read with your child? Join House of Bounce for Princess Storytime! Foster a lifelong love of reading as your child joins a live character guest for stories, bubbles, dancing and crafts! 24201 Valencia Blvd #2312, Valencia, Santa Clarita. Info: facebook.com/ events/2033908346914148/?event_time_ id=2033908453580804 First Saturday of the month, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Flutterby is a no-charge open art studio for kids and their parents to stop by and make their own artwork to display. All art materials are provided and no prior registration necessary, as it’s free to the whole community. ARTree Community

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WIN

= Family Friendly Event

Arts Center, 22508 6th St., Newhall. Info: (661) 673-7500, http://theartree.org/events/

viewform?vc=0&c=0&w=1&usp=mail_ form_link

EVENTS BY DATE

Thursday, Dec. 5, 4-6 p.m. The Canyon Country Library will host a free three part Cricut Series for the month of December. During this first session, participants will acquire knowledge on the different Cricut products available, get started, and practice using Cricut Design Space. 18601 Soledad Canyon Road, Santa Clarita. Info: santaclaritalibrary. evanced.info/signup/Calendar

Sunday, Dec. 1, 4-5:30 p.m. A free concert of sacred and secular Christmas classics, as well as some new favorites, all performed by the Scenic Hills Singers. The concert is being hosted by St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church, located at 24901 Orchard Village Road. For more information, call 661-259-7307 or email office@ststephens.org.

Wednesday, Dec. 4, 9a.m. to 5 p.m. and Thursday, Dec. 5 through Saturday, Dec. 7, noon to 5 p.m. In Fundamentals of Dog Behavior and Training I, Cesar Millan personally brings his exceptional insights into dog behavior to a hands-on training course ideal for dog owners and trainers alike. In this five-day program, you will learn the subtle yet powerful physical and psychological language of canines and how to use it to build balanced relationships. Dog Psychology Center, 20340 Blue Cloud Rd, Santa Clarita.

Info: https://www.cesarsway.com/trainingcesars-way/#fundamental-courses Wednesday, Dec. 4, 5:30-7:30 p.m. The College of the Canyons Institute for Culinary Education will host the 2nd Annual Gingerbread House Display and Competition.

All are invited to attend and participate!

Last year, we had over 20 amazing gingerbread house entries and over 175 people came to cast their votes on their favorites.

Who will take home bragging rights and trophies this year? 26455 Rockwell Canyon Rd, Santa Clarita. Info: docs.google.com/ forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScBVlp1vV5rLrKJWthJ8V6mDddae3-Wyy-UDtfe6kqzGUarQg/

Thursday, Dec. 5, 6-7:30 p.m. Enjoy a wonderful, educational evening of gazing at the moon, visible planets and stars with The Local Group Astronomy Club of SCV hosted by the Bella Vida Senior Center. Guests can view the night sky through high-powered telescopes. Bring the family! 27180 Golden Valley Rd, Santa Clarita. Info: Blyth Birchall (661) 259-9444 Friday, Dec. 6, 5:30 p.m. Holipalooza is an annual, one-night fundraising event benefiting the many youth programs offered by the Canyon Theatre Guild throughout each year.

Featuring food and silent auctions, as well as holiday songs, dances, and skits performed

by Santa Clarita’s talented youth, Holipalooza is a perfect way to get into the spirit of the season! $15-40. 24242 Main Street, Newhall.

Info: canyontheatre.org/holipalooza

of fresh cut greenery, pine cones and other beautiful natural treasures. Children’s crafts will also be available. For those with allergy concerns, please note that peanut butter is used on some craft items. No finished craft items will be on sale--you must make your own at this event. 19152 Placerita Canyon Rd, Santa Clarita. Info: facebook.com/ events/386959011996346/?event_time_ id=386959015329679 Saturday, Dec. 7, 10:30 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. The So Cal Monster Truck RC racing series will be back at Hot Rod Hobbies for the winter finals with two awesome racing tracks and freestyle to follow. Hot Rod Hobbies, 25845 Railroad Ave, Santa Clarita. Info: facebook.com/events/462247031276946/

Sunday, Dec. 8, 4-7 p.m. Southern California composer Morten Lauridsen’s “Lux Aeterna” is one of the most glorious works now sung throughout the world and it will launch us into a wonderful holiday program. Along with the children’s choirs, the Santa Clarita Master Chorale will present their “Holiday Lights” concert with holiday music to lighten your spirits that is both new and heartwarmingly familiar, including our annual carol sing-along. Santa Clarita Performing Arts Center, 26455 Rockwell VOTED S SCV’S BESS Canyon Rd., Santa Clarita. Info: www3.

MATTRE canyons.edu/Offices/PIO/CanyonsPAC/lights. STORE !

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Friday, Dec. 6, 7:30 p.m. Get you in the mood for the holiday season with College of the Canyons’ Holiday Concert and Sing Along. Vocalist Katherine Monday, Dec. 9, 7-10 p.m. It’s the 4th Lench-Meyering joins the band as they annual Santa Clarita Master Chorale comperform favorites from the holiday season.

“Rudolph” flies in and “Santa Is In The House.” munity Messiah Singalong with orchestra “Christmas Time Is Here” and “Hanukkah and soloists. For the second year in a row Swings.” Come along with “Frosty” and the we will feature soloists selected from band and usher in the holidays. General the music department of California State admission $12, seniors and children $6.

University Northridge. Bring your own score Info: www3.canyons.edu/Offices/PIO/ or borrow at the door. $15-20. 25718 See store With 60 equal payments until Dec. and a min. one purchase of $2,999 CanyonsPAC/holiday.html McBean Pkwy, Valencia. Info: facebook.com/

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Saturday, Dec. 7, 5 a.m. to 1 p.m. The Jurassic Park Motor Pool will host a SoCal: Combat Radio Xmas for Orphans at Salt Creek Grille. Come out and see dozens of cosplayers, prop builders, and movie cars as we gather together to provide hundreds of Los Angeles and Ventura county children and families with a Christmas to remember!

Salt Creek Grille Valencia, 24415 Town Center Dr, # 115, Valencia. Info: facebook.com/ events/878139772563241/

Saturday, Dec. 7, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. The Placerita Canyon Nature Center will host its holiday craft fair fundraiser! Create and decorate your own holiday wreaths, centerpieces, and ornaments using a large assortment

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Saturday, Dec. 14, 10:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Join the Agua Dulce Women’s Club at the 26th Annual Parade of Tables. Table Hostesses decorate their table in a specific theme and then sell tickets for a place at their table. Come together as a community Ptourchas gather, share lunch, and increase awareness TEM of the importance of emergency prepared- PUR BLACK D IA ness. There will also be a catered lunch, cash S andEsilent ARNS & bar, entertainment, raffle basketsT auction items and some dynamic keynoteAND GE speakers. $40. Agua Dulce Airpark, 33638 Agua Dulce Canyon Rd, Santa Clarita. Info: facebook.com/events/987798274897922/

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D E C E M B E R 1, 2019

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 2 3

How you can resolve to be a better parent

P

arenting is a challenging, yet rewarding role that many adults take on lovingly.

Data from the U.S. Census Bureau indicates that there were 73.7 million children under age 18 living in families in 2016.

Parenting is a hard job that evolves as children age, and moms and dads may wonder if there is anything they can do to be better parents. Raising successful, happy and well-rounded children takes effort, and the following tips may help parents along the way.

Take care of yourself

It’s hard for parents to serve as good role models for their children if they aren’t taking care of themselves. A little self-reflection and some positive changes can help parents set strong examples for their youngsters.

Beware of comparisons

Parents often wonder what they may be doing wrong, especially when

K I D S & FA M I LY

they see other children meeting milestones that their children may not be achieving. According to Harvey Karp, MD, author of “The Happiest Toddler,” babies develop rapidly and each child is unique. One set of abilities is bound to develop faster than another, Karp says. Making comparisons between children, whether it’s with youngsters’ siblings or friends, can be a recipe for conflict and self-doubt.

Speak with a pediatrician if you have concerns about development.

Be an active listener

Being an attentive parent includes listening to youngsters. Encourage kids to share their points of view on activities or topics they feel are important. That can reassure children they know they can come to you without fear of reprisal, even when they may have been out of line. This strengthens the bond between parents and their children.

Explain you are human, too Sometimes children need to see

Raising successful, happy and well-rounded children takes effort, and the following tips may help parents along the way.

that their parents are not perfect to realize they needn’t be perfect either.

The website Aha Parenting! recommends parents apologize when they are wrong and use such instances to

teach kids that adults are human, too.

These are just a few of the many steps parents can take to form strong bonds with their children and be the best parents possible. (MC)

Helpful tips to use when booking a babysitter

B

abysitting services today have changed from the days of ringing the resident babysitter and asking if she was free for the evening. Rising rates and technology have changed the face of babysitting.

According to UrbanSitter’s 2019 National Childcare Rate Survey, babysitting can be lucrative. The average hourly rate of $16.75 for one child and $19.26 for two children shows how rates have escalated.

Cost is one, but not the only, consideration when choosing babysitters. The following are some ways parents can manage the process of booking babysitters.

• Recognize the changing pool of applicants. UrbanSitter’s cofounder Lynn Perkins says that parents can hire nurses, teachers, psychologists, therapists and other specialists to watch their children. Babysitting now attracts an array of care providers and is no longer just for teenagers looking to earn some spending money.

• Properly vet applicants. Friends, family members and neighbors can

rapport with the sitter ensures he or she will take the job when called on.

• Consider a nanny cam. If you agonize when leaving home, check in via a smart house camera, which helps you keep an eye on things while you’re away from home.

Babysitters are a necessity for busy families. While many things about babysitting have changed over the years, the need for reliable, responsible sitters remains. (MC)

be an excellent source of information and even recommend local sitters. But thanks to the internet and online caregiving services, parents can cast a wider net when looking for qualified sitters.

• Discuss rates in advance. The going rate for sitters has increased.

Babysitters and the people who need them should have a frank conversation about rates to avoid confusion. Ask sitters to text their rate so everything is in writing. For those unsure of what to offer, check sites like Care.com or contact a local

youth-employment office.

• Spell out your wishes. Make it clear to sitters what you expect of them. Does the child have a special blanket or feeding ritual? Are there any minor medical issues that need to be addressed? Are certain snacks off limits? Do not create room for misinterpretation, especially if a child has any food allergies or a specialized diet.

• Develop a solid relationship.

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24 · S U N D AYS I G N A L

D E C E M B E R 1, 2019

K I D S & FA M I LY

Donna’s Day: Creative Family Fun

Tips for choosing toys for holiday giving

By Donna Erickson Signal Contributing Writer

A

doll? A puzzle? A yo-yo?

What was your all-time favorite childhood toy, and what made it so special? Now in the season of giving as we play Santa’s elves, those personal memories come into focus in considering what toys we can offer children that are fun, creative and lasting.

Here are some tips to guide you as you search for an endearing and enduring toy for the children on your holiday gift list: Often, “bargain toys” are no bargain at all, particularly if they break after only one or two uses. Look for safe, well-constructed toys like wooden cars or trains, toy instruments, plush animals and puppets. These

Katie Brenke assists Kelly Davis in choosing an entertaining improv game for her 6-year-old niece at a Minneapolis toy store.

open-ended toys let children play with them in new and different ways

as they grow.

Avoid purchasing toys that will

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be played with once and be tossed aside. To get the most out of your toy-buying dollars, look for toys that can entertain in a variety of ways.

Construction toys of any kind are a good example, such as wooden building blocks, snap-together Legos or Duplo blocks. Don’t overlook the classics that have been updated for a new generation, like Erector Sets and Tinkertoys. All of these help your children practice skills like sorting, stacking, balancing and counting.

(Labels on toys will help you determine if it is age appropriate.)

Find value in toys that help children use their imagination and creativity. “Jewelry and craft sets let kids develop fine motor skills while they make one-of-a-kind creations for relatives to display and wear,” says Katie Brenke, assistant manager at a Minneapolis toy store. “For a unique gift kit, assemble a tote full of art supplies, like paints, brushes, paper, glue and clay,” she adds.

Take a look at games, too, as you peruse the shelves. A classic like Candyland, created in the late 1940s, helps preschoolers learn counting and colors. Another family favorite, Monopoly, teaches kids and adults about real estate and the value of money.

Games like backgammon, checkers, chess and cribbage are favorites for all generations. Check out other new board games, too, that bring kids and adults together during the holidays and year-around. You may discover that games provide the best gift of all: memorable time spent together with family and friends.

Donna Erickson’s award-winning series “Donna’s Day” is airing on public television nationwide. To find more of her creative family recipes and activities, visit www.donnasday.com and link to the NEW Donna’s Day Facebook fan page. Her latest book is “Donna Erickson’s Fabulous Funstuff for Families.” © 2019 Donna Erickson Distributed by King Features Synd.

D E C E M B E R 1, 2019

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 2 5

FOOD

By Michele E. Buttelman Signal Staff Writer

A

s a child I remember sitting impatiently at the kitchen table waiting for my tray of cutout sugar cookies to decorate. My favorite cookie cutters were the angel and the Christmas tree.

Those were fun cookies to decorate. I never did like the reindeer, his legs or his head always tore off when getting transferred from the table to the cookie sheet for decorating. In addition, I didn’t like red or green sugar decorated reindeer, the reindeer had to have the chocolate sprinkles, which usually ran out first.

When I had a daughter of my own, we made it a holiday tradition to decorate Christmas cookies together.

My favorite story about my Christmas cookie recipes is the time I decided to

publish our family’s most “sacred” recipe, the Springerle recipe handed down from my grandmother. She obtained the recipe from a neighbor.

My aunt was horrified that I would share such an important family recipe.

“Not the Springerle!” she objected.

However, I shared the recipe despite her objections. She has since shared the recipe with friends, as well.

It is, after all, the season of “giving.”

Here are some time-tested Christmas cookie recipes from my own recipe box Most of these recipes have been handed down in my family, but not all.

Some recipes were gathered from friends. I usually make most, if not all of these cookies every year for the holidays.

Springerle from Mrs. Roehr

Dissolve the soda in the sour cream and add, alternatively, with the flour and salt.

THIS IS THE ORIGINAL RECIPE, REPRODUCED EXACTLY AS WRITTEN.

Chill the dough until it is very stiff. Roll a little thicker than a dime on a floured board.

Stir in 1 Tbsp. butter, 2 C sugar and 4 large eggs.

(Before mixers the recipe said to beat for 1/4 hour).

Add 4 C flour and 1 tsp. baking powder. Add 1/4 package anise seed.

use holiday cookie cutters to cut into festive shapes.

Baste the cookies with milk and decorate with a variety of springles and other cookie decor.

Kneed on board a few minutes

Bake in a hot oven at 400 degrees until pale gold.

Roll to 1/4-inch thickness.

Bake 5 or 6 minutes.

Candy Cane Cookies

Roll again with little figured rolling pin.

Leave on trays overnight. This is a MUST. Sprinkle anise seed on cookie sheet and lay cookies on top. (Optional) Bake in slow oven 250 degress, 25-30 minutes approx.

Cook one sheet at a time.

Remove baked cookies from sheets immediately, If not removed, they will stick to the cookie sheet like cement.

Lita Cakes 1 2 4 4 1 1

pound butter cups sugar cups flower eggs tsp. vanilla lb. package of cornstarch

press down to 1/4 inch, make dent with a little finger and fill with plum jam.

Bake well apart at 300 degrees.

Do not brown, but cook just until a light brown on the bottom of the cookie.

In a separate bowl, mix flour and salt and add to shortening mixture.

When kept in tight tins, cookies improve with age.

Do NOT replace butter with margarine.

Divide dough in half.

Blend red food coloring into one half of the dough.

Decorated Sour Cream Cookies

Roll 1 teaspoon of the red dough and 1 teaspoon of the white dough on lightly floured board into 3-inch long and 1/4-inch wide ropes

Form in long strings about the thickness of a finger.

Cut off and form into balls like large marbles and

Cream the butter and sugar, add the eggs and blend.

Add unbeaten eggs one at a time alternately with flour and cornstarch sifted together. Add vanilla.

Mix shortening and butter, sugar, egg, almond and vanilla.

Bake 15-25 minutes.

1 1 /2 cups sugar 1 cup butter 1/2 tsp. soda 1/4 tsp. salt 3 Tbsp. thick sour cream 2 well-beaten eggs 3 cups of flour 1/4 tsp. vanilla

Warm butter at room temp until easily creamed with sugar. Beat until light in color.

1/2 cup butter 1/2 cup shortening 1 egg 1 cup sifted confectioners’ suger 1 1/2 tsp. almond extract OR 1 tsp. peppermint extract.

1 tsp. vanilla 1 tsp. salt 2 1/2 cups sifted all-purpose flour 1/2 tsp. red food coloring

Place the ropes side by side and press lightly together and twist like a rope. Curve top of rope down to look like the handle of a candy cane.

Bake 9 minutes at 350 degrees or until lightly browned.

Optional Sprinkle with 1/2 cup crushed peppermint stick candy and 1/2 cup sugar.

26 · S U N D AYS I G N A L

D E C E M B E R 1, 2019

THINGSTODO

Celebrate the holidays with uniquely SoCal fun

By Michele E. Buttelman Signal Staff Writer

The holidays are a great time to enjoy unique, once a year, or once in a lifetime, events. Living in Southern California we are surrounded by magical, amazing and truly uncommon experiences.

Through Jan. 12

Moonlight Forest Los Angeles County Arboretum and Botanical Garden 301 North Baldwin Ave., Arcadia Info www.arboretum.org/moonlight-forestmagical-lantern-art-festival/ Wander through gardens filled with massive lanterns, shimmering flowers and whimsical dragons.

Moonlight Forest is a fantasy of lights and illuminating entertainment. Dive under the seas with exotic fish and a giant shark in the Ocean Visions exhibit. Step into a winter wonderland with the Polar Dreams experience featuring playful penguins and cuddly sled dogs. Enjoy other themes and entertainment by live acrobats, dancers and other performers plus free parking. See a slew of Chinese lanterns that cover a field with parade-float-sized structures. The lanterns, crafted by artisans from China’s Sichuan province, are arranged by themes including penguins, sled dogs, fish and sharks.

Tickets Adults $25-$28, children $20-$23; seniors $23-$25.

Left: Step into a winter wonderland at the Los Angeles County Arboretum and Botanical Garden’s Moonlight Forest. Top: The Newport Christmas Boat parade is one of the largest in the country. PHOTOS COURTESY LA BOTANICAL GARDENS AND VISIT CALIFORNIA

tion, call (805) 247-0197 or visit DowntownOxnard. org.

Dec. 18 through 22, 6:30 p.m.

Dec. 10, 11, 17, 18, 4:30-8:30 p.m.

Christmas at the Ranch 201 Camarillo Ranch Road, Camarillo Info https://camarilloranchfoundation.org/ christmas-with-santa/ Give your family the gift of a beautifully unique Christmas experience by visiting Camarillo’s very own historic landmark, magically transformed for the holiday season.

The Camarillo Ranch Foundation offers a special historic home tour of Adolfo Camarillo’s 1892 Queen Anne Victorian Mansion and the 1905 Red Barn that is transformed into Santa’s Workshop.

Learn about Camarillo family Christmas traditions as you step back in time with visions of by-gone eras. Visit with Santa, and bring your own camera.

Enjoy Victorian Carolers, festive beverages and treats for purchase and gourmet food trucks.

Tickets $6, under age 2 free.

Dec. 7 through 29

Celebrate the Holidays at Heritage Square Heritage Square Hall 731 South A St., Oxnard Info heritagesquareoxnard.com/christmas.html Heritage Square is a notably historic part of Oxnard. The 15 beautifully restored structures on site preserve some of the special history of Oxnard’s early pioneer families. A variety of holiday events will be held at the square.

Parking onsite is free and may be accessed on the

A Street, B Street or 8th Street entrance.

Heritage Square Tours Saturdays, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Sundays, 1-4 p.m.

Heritage Square Visitor Center 715 South A Street Take a guided tour of the houses’ exteriors with select interiors. Tickets are $5 per person.

Docents provide information about the architecture and the community leaders who lived in the original homes, built between 1876 thru 1912 during 45-minute guided tours. For a self-guided walking tour, visit heritagesquareoxnard.com/ files/123826032.pdf 11th Annual Gingerbread Celebration Fridays, 1-4 p.m. Saturdays, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Sundays, 1-4 p.m.

See Heritage Square decorated for the holidays.

Magnificent display of gingerbread creations at Heritage Square Hall.

Holly Trolley Tours Dec. 10-12, 6 p.m., 7 p.m., 8 p.m.

Tour historic Oxnard with the “Holly Trolley Tours.” Tour includes Heritage Square to view Gingerbread houses and Christmas Tree Lane in the Henry T. Oxnard Historic District. Price includes hot cocoa and sweets along the route. $12.50 per person. Reservations required. For more informa-

The 111th annual Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade Marina Park, 1600 W. Balboa Blvd.

Newport Beach Info www.christmasboatparade.com View the elaborate Christmas light displays of bayfront estates with their Ring of Lights competition and one of the largest decorated-boat parades in the country. Hundreds of decorated ships of all sizes compete for top awards in over a half dozen categories. It is not uncommon for yacht owners to spend tens of thousands of dollars on decorations.

Opening and closing nights include fireworks.

You can book a cruise to view the parade and shore lights, or you can view the parade from the shore at various locations including The Fun Zone, Balboa Village, reserved seating at the American Legion, reserved seating at the Newport Sea Base, Harborside Restaurant and Rusty Pelican Restaurant.

Parade participants start from the east end of Lido Island with the first public-viewing destination at the new 10.5-acre Marina Park. The community park offers 177 parking spaces, a nautical-themed playground, picnic area and sailing center, and is also the largest public viewing area along the parade route.

Visit the event website for information on cruises and yacht rentals for parade viewing, as well as restaurants and other locations.

D E C E M B E R 1, 2019

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 2 7

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28 · S U N D AYS I G N A L

D E C E M B E R 1, 2019

GIFTGUIDE

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S U N D AYS I G N A L · 2 9

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D E C E M B E R 1, 2019

INTERIORDESIGN

Home decorating for the holidays

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hances are good that at some point during the holiday season, you’ll welcome guests into your home. Whether you lease or own your home, creating a cozy, festive setting for holiday gatherings can actually be quite simple, especially if you take on the project one room at a time.

One advantage of seasonal decorating is that it is, by definition, temporary. This gives you plenty of freedom to experiment with new ideas and completely transform your living space on a short-term basis. It’s also

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an opportunity to get creative with your home’s decor to create warm, inviting places for family and friends to gather.

Get started decking the halls this holiday season with these room-byroom decorating tips from the design experts at Invitation Homes, one of the nation’s premier home leasing companies with more than 80,000 single-family homes for lease in the United States.

Exterior

Curb appeal isn’t a concept reserved for buying and selling; set the festive mood from the moment guests arrive by enhancing your home’s outdoor space. Bold or twinkling, strings of lights add instant holiday appeal, and the possibilities for creating a custom look are nearly endless when you use weather-resistant removable hooks. You can embellish the design with fun, whimsical inflatables or go more traditional with stylish wreaths and garland to accent the door. Make the look your own with unexpected touches like an old sled propped against the porch railing. The beauty of outdoor decorating is that virtually all of it can be easily removed to make

way for a new season or event.

Entryway

Delight guests from the moment they enter your home by paying special attention to the entryway. It’s a great place to introduce a theme you’ll carry throughout the house such as seasonal patterns or textures like a colorful plaid print. Create ambient light with strings hung from the ceiling or wrap banisters and stairs with garland (pre-lit garland adds a classic touch).

Kitchen

In most homes, the kitchen is an entertaining hub. While platters of food may occupy many of the available surfaces, you can still incorporate a holiday theme. Set the table with a festive yuletide log with faux berries, pinecones and candles artfully placed nearby. Seasonal candles, festive seat cushions and a cheerful table runner all add subtle touches of holiday flair. Other ideas include dangling lights from the chandelier or stacking pinecones with string lights in a bowl or vase to accent the buffet line or to use as a table centerpiece.

Holiday desserts can be artwork in their own right, so get creative to

make the dessert table a stand-out element of the decor.

Living Room

A comfy, cozy environment that invites guests to make themselves at home as they catch up with loved ones is a holiday entertaining must.

Extend the holiday happiness into this space with little touches like a lantern filled with pinecones, faux gifts by the mantle, stockings hung from stocking holders that reflect your decorative theme, seasonal throw pillows and evergreen arrangements on the end tables and coffee table.

Guest Rooms

Traveling during the holidays can be stressful, but you can do your part to make guests feel comfortable by adding some cheerful touches to the area they’ll call home. A miniature evergreen tree in a planter or pot makes a fun addition to a nightstand.

You can adorn headboards with garland or delicate lights and add festive throw pillows and blankets or even swap out linens entirely for a full-blown holiday welcome. (Family Features) Find more lease-friendly holiday tips at invitationhomes.com.

D E C E M B E R 1, 2019

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 3 1

HOMEIMPROVEMENT

Maintaining pool lines in upcoming cold weather

By Robert Lamoureux Signal Contributing Writer

Pool lines in cold weather Robert, I am a new home-buyer here in Canyon Country, and with the new home came a pool.

I’ve lived in Santa Clarita my whole life and I know it gets cold in the winter, here.

I’ve never had a pool and I hear that sometimes the pool lines can crack and break when the temperatures drop to near freezing levels, though it’s not for long or often.

Is there anything that I can do to protect these lines? It’s beginning to cool down at night now and I’d like to do all I can.

Gilbert G. Gilbert, Great question: One of the best

things that you can do is to run your pool pump at night.

The constant movement of water will prevent the water in the pipes from freezing. This is the single most effective way, and if you have an Energy Star-certified pump that runs at night, you’re doing the most you can to also save on energy. Any of the pipes that are above grade (above ground), you can wrap them with insulation, this will also help.

They typically don’t wrap these but if you are concerned, it certainly can’t hurt, and if in fact we get an odd freezing temperature, you’ll be that much more protected.

Definitely run your equipment at night though, this will be your best shot.

Sincerely, Robert

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Water feature waterproofing Robert, I live in Canyon Country on a fairly large piece of property which has a decent-sized water feature.

We used a rubberized product, but about every five years we are having to revisit this due to failure. Is there anything else that we can use as a waterproofing product, which will last longer?

We take good care of this water feature, we don’t use any sharp objects when working on it, but the product just doesn’t last. Any help you can give would be great. It’s a rectangular fountain that is about 4-feet wide, 20-feet long and 3-feet deep. On top of the rubberized system, we have granite, which we’re able to remove and replace the rubber product over the concrete base.

George S. George, Yes, there are many different options out there, but my recommendation is an AVM product. Go to AVM Industries in Canoga Park, ask for their 740 system.

It is imperative that you remove all of the existing product that is there now, all the way down to the bare concrete. There cannot be any residue of product, and if that means that you have to sand blast the feature to get it perfectly raw, then this is what is necessary to get the new AVM product to hold.

The preparation is the most important part, but if you take the time to do so, you’ll have many years of freedom with no leaks.

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They’ll provide you with the necessary information and product you’ll need if you are new to this, they are very helpful with their information. There are several steps for the process, finishing up with the troweling of the final product x2 layers, with drying in between.

Once cured, then you’ll do a standing water test which means to mark a line and fill the area with water to the line, and as long as the water doesn’t reduce in amount, you’re good to finish up.

At this point, you’ll add one more coat of the concrete layer (they’ll inform you of all of this), which will protect your waterproofing, and you’ll finally be able to add the granite back in and finish up your water feature. This process though time consuming and labor intensive, will give you a very long time problem free, and it’ll be well worth it.

Good luck to you, Robert Robert Lamoureux has 38 years of experience as a general contractor, with separate licenses in electrical and plumbing contracting. He owns IMS Construction Inc. in Valencia.

His opinions are his own, not necessarily those of The Signal. Opinions expressed in this column are not meant to replace the recommendations of a qualified contractor after that contractor has made a thorough visual inspection. Email questions to Robert at robert@imsconstruction. com.

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D E C E M B E R 1, 2019

H E A LT H

Best flu hacks every traveler should know

W

hile everyone wants to make the most of their vacation, travel can do a number on one’s health. And during flu season, the risk of feeling unwell is even higher. Feel your best with these tips:

learn more, visit Oscillo.com.

• Will you arrive in time to make your connection? What if you forgot to pack Aunt Ethel’s present? There’s no doubt that travel can cause stress, which research has shown can increase susceptibility to flu and even increase the severity of symptoms.

Being flexible, prepared and building extra time into your schedule can make for stress-free travel.

• Flu levels increase during winter because people spend more time in enclosed spaces together touching surfaces and breathing “shared” air.

Traveling only amplifies this. Reduce your chances of swapping germs by avoiding contact with shared items.

• Ironically, just when handwashing is most vital — while traveling — it becomes less convenient. Carry handwipes and sanitizers and use them when you can’t wash your hands.

More importantly, avoiding rubbing your eyes or nose.

• An airplane cabin’s dry air accommodates the growth of viruses that thrive on low humidity. Additionally, travelers often refrain from hydrating

to avoid frequent bathroom trips. Yet, when mucous membranes are dry, they can’t keep germs at bay. A general rule is to drink at least 8 ounces of water for every hour in the air.

• Getting medical attention away from home is tough. Travel smart with over-the-counter products that are homeopathic and easy to use.

Some, like Oscillococcinum, are good to pack in your carry-on so you can

take at the first sign of symptoms.

Though these uses have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration, clinical studies show that Oscillococcinum reduces the duration and severity of flu symptoms such as body aches, headache, fever, chills and fatigue. Widely available in supermarkets and drugstores, this flu medicine is taken without water, making it an ideal travel remedy. To

• Exercise boosts energy and immunity, so don’t take a vacation from workouts while traveling. Pack workout wear and carve out time for exercise.

• Unusual travel schedules, unfamiliar beds and crossing time zones can disrupt a sleep schedule. Get plenty of rest before your trip to keep your body’s natural defenses at optimum levels.

Getting sick can put a damper on even the best vacation. Take steps to feel your best. (Statepoint)

D E C E M B E R 1, 2019

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 3 3

Making sense of doggy dental care

D

ental care for dogs is important, but it’s an aspect of care that is frequently overlooked by dog owners. One of the few outward signs of dental problems lurking just below the surface is bad breath.

According to the American Veterinary Dental College, periodontal disease is the most common clinical dental condition occurring in adult dogs. However, it is preventable with consistent home dental care and regular vet visits.

Knowing there’s a problem with your pet’s mouth starts by understanding what a healthy dog’s mouth should look like. Teeth should be intact (not jagged or broken) and free of plaque and tartar buildup. Tongues should be moist without any lumps or cuts and gums should be salmon pink, though some dogs naturally have black or black and pink gums.

Making sure you are aware of what your pet’s mouth typically looks

like and talking to your vet if you spot any issues can go a long way toward protecting your furry friend.

Also consider the following advice from veterinarian and host of Animal Planet’s “Evan Goes Wild” Dr. Evan Antin to help keep your dog’s teeth healthy and his or her breath fresh:

See your vet regularly

When visiting your veterinarian for a regular check-up, make sure he or she checks your dog’s teeth. Your vet can evaluate your dog’s mouth, teeth and gums and identify any trouble spots.

Brushing is best

Ideally, that means brushing your dog’s teeth daily, but that’s not realistic for all dog owners. If you’re brush-

PETS

“Practicing good dental hygiene is just as important for pets as it is for humans,” Antin said, “I recommend DentaLife ActivFresh chews, which are designed with nine ridges and have an active-ingredient blend of honey and natural spirulina that has been scientifically tested to fight bad breath at the source.”

Use crunchy kibbles

ing at home, start slow and make sure it’s a positive experience. Start by introducing dog-specific toothpaste with your finger and progressing to a toothbrush, once your pet becomes comfortable. Your vet can also brush your dog’s teeth if you’re having trouble.

Treat and play with purpose Functional chews and toys can be both enjoyable for your dog and provide a healthy benefit as easy options to help with dental upkeep.

Dry, crunchy foods can be helpful.

As your dog chews, particles from the dry food scrape against his or her teeth, acting like a toothbrush to help reduce tartar buildup.

Watch for warning signs

Persistent bad breath, red gums and changes in behavior or eating habits can all be signs of dental problems. If you notice any of these signs, make an appointment to see your veterinarian.

To learn more about protecting your dog’s dental health, visit purina. com/dentalife and consult with your veterinarian. (Family Features)

34 · S U N D AYS I G N A L

D E C E M B E R 1, 2019

TIMERANGER

Bad Guys, Furry Critters & Booze-Proof Newhall Yay, hooray, a yippee coyote and three chimpanzee backflips without losing my hat. Good to see all y’all.

We’ve a most interesting trail ride ahead into the back canyons of Santa Clarita history. C’mon. Amongst these several hundred thousand fine steeds, there’s one I picked out just for you. Just whistle.

You do know how to whistle, don’t you?

Leave your cell phones.

The ponies aren’t partial to selfies.

Just try to remember the beauty…

WAY BACK WHEN & THEN SOME

• Them LeBruns Well. Here we are, Dec. 5, 1890. A Mr. LeBrun was deeded the big San Francisquito Canyon ranch. His nephew Gus would live in infamy for gunning down Newhall constable Ed Brown in 1924 and getting shot, several times, by deputy Jack Pilcher.

• First stage, first stage wreck Again, Dec. 5, but this time in 1854, a feisty Phineas Banning drove the first stage coach through the original 30-foot slice of Beale’s Cut. The road wasn’t ready for horses and wagons and Banning had been warned by every teamster in Southern California. Still, he drove the coach down.

He crashed and burned big time, but came out of the wreck with a big smile and much enthusiasm.

• How Kansas Street got its name Kansas Gov. John St. John and investors purchased the old Lyon Station, plus other acreage. Their dream was to start a Prohibitionist community in Newhall — no mean feat when the town was only two blocks long and had four saloons. The idea fell like a lead balloon. In signing the title to buying property, a home or business owner agreed to forfeit their land and property if anyone was caught drinking alcohol on their acreage. That bad business idea was launched on Dec. 3, 1887.

• “Happy Birthday to Hart. He married a teen tart …” Back on Dec. 6, 1884, William S. Hart was born in Newburgh, New York. The silent film thespian would become perhaps the most influential Western star in cinema history, even more so than John Wayne or Clint Eastwood.

NOT SO WAY BACK WHEN & THEN SOME

• Happy darn birthday, pops!! My dad, Walt Cieplik, was born on Dec. 2, 1922, back in the distant canyon of Indian Orchard. One of my absolute favorite people and saddlepals and I’m smiling right now looking back at him.

DEC. 1, 1919

• Drat. We shoulda taken all our holiday cards back to 1919 to mail them. Here’s something we’ll probably never, ever see again. Fliers were hung at the local post offices, notifying folks that first-class postage would be reduced from 2 cents an ounce to a penny an ounce.

DEC. 1, 1929

• ‘Badgers? I don’t got to show you no stinkin’ badgers!’ Willis Dyer made a tidy sum, hunting critters for government bounties. Dyer trapped four coyotes, 10 bobcats, nine red foxes, eight gray foxes and three badgers. I just spotted one myself dashing across the dirt road under the train station at Heritage Junction last week so Dyer must have missed one.

• How to capture a buffalo “Buffalo” Tom Vernon was arrested 90 years back for his derailing of a train by the present-day Saugus Speedway. For years, Vernon was hailed as a villain for derailing and wrecking the train, then robbing the passengers. We just learned of his motive. It seems that Vernon robbed the train to pay for a woman friend’s “operation” (abortion) in Los Angeles. Early editions of L.A. papers wrongly wrote that the engineer of the Saugus train died after being scalded by escaping steam.

Vernon escaped to Wyoming, where he pulled the same stunt, derailing

a train and robbing the passengers.

He accidentally dropped a note (for the SECOND DARN ROBBERY!!!) saying that he would be staying with a prostitute and that was how Tommy was captured.

• Winner, winner chicken dinner!

Up on the Johnson Ranch in Saugus, the hens were really earning their keep. Digging around in the dirt, they, and one duck, came up with several gold pebbles. That probably put them at the bottom of the list for Sunday supper.

DEC. 1, 1939

• Another Sunday. Another idiot hunter story. John Mathias was hurrying to catch up with his fellow Elmer Fudds when he jumped over a hedge, stumbled, fell and his rifle went off. The slug hit his hunting buddy, Bob Brown, in the calf. Wonder if he had Bob stuffed and mounted?

• “Dude. You mining?” Some locals called it, “Recreational panning.” Others called it, “Dude mining.” Several ranches in the area made a few extra bucks by allowing folks — mostly out of towners — to play in the creeks on their spreads, panning for gold. For a fee, the amateur prospectors would be loaned a gold pan and given a lunch.

It helped the economy during the Depression. Over at the Osborn acreage, folks could pull about 75 cents of gold dust out an hour. After sandwich, soda pop and loan of a pan, you could maybe make $3 a day.

DEC. 1, 1949

• Talk about a Christmas road trip The Hart High basketball squad made the long voyage to play Lone Pine, up toward Bishop in the snowy Sierras.

After beating the Piners, 52-24, the Mighty Indians spent the night in the gym in sleeping bags and cots.

DEC. 1, 1959

• Extreme SCV football trivia The very first CIF football game ever played by an SCV team occurred on this date. Hart beat Paso Robles, 3412. That was back when they didn’t have 512 divisions (just two, really small schools and all the rest) and only league champions played in the playoffs. More trivia. The following week in 1959, Hart became the first local football team to lose a CIF game, getting edged by Pasadena, 12-6. Hart

failed to score from the Tiger 6-yard line with time running out. Painful …

DEC. 1, 1969

• If the suit fits … Members of the Hell’s Angels motorcycle club roared into Newhall on this date. Purpose?

To film a commercial about men’s suits.

• Yes. You can fight City, or in this case, County Hall. Arthur Provost built his Val Verde home in 1921, before there was running water, electricity, roads or even law in Val Verde.

A county building inspector dropped by to condemn the Jamaican-born man’s house. Seems the county wanted his property to build a road and wouldn’t grant him permission to make his home of 48 years county-legal because it would be cheaper to just buy an open lot instead of one with a house on it. Provost motored on the freeways in his Model T Ford to downtown L.A. and did battle with the bureaucrats. He won, getting his permits.

DEC. 1, 1979

• The county government circus continued A little and obscure local government agency had a giant name — The West Los Angeles County Resource Conservation District. Director Marcus Frishman was granted continued probation for petty theft and the entire board was being investigated by an L.A. grand jury for all manner of financial and ethical shenanigans, including buying themselves cars and bicycles from the agency’s bloated coffers.

Tell me, please. It CAN’T be this close to Christmas. Foof. Well. By that familiar glowing light up ahead, that’s our depot to the here-&-now of the 21st century. Thanks for spending time with me, dear saddlepals. See you next Sunday with another exciting Time Ranger adventure? Until then — ¡Vayan con Dios, amigos, y feliz Navidad!

John Boston has been writing about SCV history for more than 40 years.

Read his historical tome, “Images of America: The Santa Clarita Valley” on Amazon.com. Check out his History of The Mighty Signal series on Saturdays on A1.

D E C E M B E R 1, 2019

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 3 5

SENIORLIVING

Avoiding Medicare fraud

E

very year, many seniors are targeted by scammers who want to steal their Medicare numbers to do things like rack up fake health care charges and commit identity theft. These scams hurt seniors and other people eligible for Medicare. The good news is that you can protect yourself from fraud and help Medicare stop scammers in their tracks.

How to spot Medicare fraud

The first step in protecting yourself from Medicare fraud is knowing how to spot it. Over time, scammers have become very sophisticated and advanced. One of the latest scams you should look out for concerns genetic testing. Scammers are offering “free” genetic tests and claiming Medicare will cover it — so they can get your Medicare number and use it to commit fraud and identity theft.

Other Medicare scams include offers for free or reduced-price medical equipment, consultations or health services. These scams can happen through telemarketing calls, health fairs and even knocking on doors.

Last year, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services removed Social Security numbers from all Medicare cards. Even with this change, people with Medicare should still guard their Medicare card and treat it like a credit card, check Medicare claims summary forms for errors and be wary of any unsolicited requests for your Medicare number.

To protect yourself from Medicare fraud, keep these things to “do” and “don’t do” in mind: DO protect your Medicare number

Demo our newest hearing devices, NO OBLIGATION* for 45-days! FREE Hearing Screening included! and treat your Medicare card like it’s a credit card.

DO remember that nothing is ever “free.” Don’t accept offers of money or gifts for free medical care.

DO review your Medicare claims for errors, including things like fake charges, double billing or other fraudulent activity, and waste or abuse.

DO visit www.medicare.gov/fraud to learn more about how you can protect yourself from Medicare fraud.

DON’T give your Medicare card or Medicare number to anyone except your doctor or people you know should have it.

DON’T accept medical supplies, equipment, or genetic testing kits from door-to-door salesmen or solicitors at a mall or fair.

DON’T let anyone persuade you to receive health care services you don’t need, such as genetic testing. Only make these decisions with your doctor.

Reporting Medicare fraud

If you think you may have spotted fraud, you should report it right away.

No matter how minimal the information you share is, it could be the missing piece to stopping the next fraud scheme.

If you are a victim of fraud, know that you won’t be penalized or lose your coverage for reporting it. Even if you are not a victim, it’s important to report any fraud scams you encounter to Medicare. Report suspected fraud by calling 1-800-MEDICARE or online through the Office of the Inspector General.

Information has been provided by the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services. (BPT)

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36 · S U N D AYS I G N A L

D E C E M B E R 1, 2019

GARDENING

How to help your poinsettias last longer

P

oinsettias are synonymous with the holiday season.

These colorful plants brighten up homes with their vibrant hues in variations of red, white and pink, making them a holiday decoration many people cannot live without.

While they’re most visible during the often chilly holiday season, poinsettias prefer warm weather. Poinsettias are native to Central America and originally flourished in an area of southern Mexico. The Aztecs used the plant for decorative and medicinal purposes.

The poinsettia may have remained a regional plant if not for the efforts of Joel Roberts Poinsett, who was the first United States Ambassador to Mexico under President James Madison. Poinsett, who would later found the Smithsonian Institution, had a love of botany and became enamored with the brilliant red plants he saw in Mexico. Eventually, Poinsett began growing the plants at home in South

bracts (modified leaves) can be vibrantly colored. That signature vibrancy is why many people would like to preserve their poinsettias to last beyond the New Year, which is possible with the right care. The following are some tips, courtesy of Mother Nature’s Network, Habersham Gardens, Oregon Live and Phoenix Flower Shops, to keep poinsettias thriving past the holiday season.

Poinsettias are beautiful and can be vibrantly colored. That signature vibrancy is why many people would like to preserve their poinsettias to last beyond the New Year, which is possible with the right care.

Carolina, and friends and others soon coveted them.

Poinsettias are beautiful and the

• Start with healthy plants that have full leaves, bracts and deep colors.

• Poinsettias do best when the temperature is between 65 and 75 F. Temperatures below that or drafts from cold windows can cause leaves to drop.

• Position the plant in a room that gets indirect sunlight for at least six hours per day.

• Poinsettias need well-drained soil.

Overwatering or allowing roots to sit in wet soil can cause the leaves to fall off prematurely. Water thoroughly only when the pot looks dry.

In households with temperatures around 70 F, the plant should be watered about once a week.

• Fertilize the plant after the blooming season with a balanced, all-purpose fertilizer.

• Try placing poinsettias in or near a bathroom, as they prefer high humidity.

It may be possible to get poinsettias to rebloom next season. Allow the poinsettias to dry out a little more in the spring. In May, cut about four inches from each stem to produce a lush, full plant during the winter.

The plants can be moved outside in June and during the summer, but keep them away from direct sunlight. Return the poinsettias indoors beginning around October. Make sure the plants get at least 12 hours of darkness per day for around eight weeks in October and November.

This will help them develop a deep hue and bloom on time for Christmas. (MC)

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Santa Clarita Valley

D E C E M B E R 1, 2019

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 3 7

19614 Green Mountain, Santa Clarita

Manya Prybyla DRE #01920105

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26477 Fairway Circle, Newhall, CA 91321

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This Senior guard gated community is patrolled 24/7 and has all the usual country club amenities including two golf courses. There are clubs galore and a little theater group, a City of Hope chapter is a great way to get involved in the community as is the community church. Senior lunch program at the church is an added plus. Come join the fun! You can be as active as you wish or just enjoy the quiet life style....$475,000

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ESTATE PROPERTIES INC

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Tons of upgrades throughout this spacious open floor plan. Beautiful views looking down on the valley from every room. Private serene country setting with perfect backyard for entertaining. $1,250,000

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ID# 9606

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BEAUTIFUL MOUNTAIN HOME!!!

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661-523-2564

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38 · S U N D AYS I G N A L

D E C E M B E R 1, 2019

LAS VEGAS STUNNER!!

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24106 Lyons Ave, Newhall CA

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Annetta Kauzor DRE #01899575

$389,900

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Beautiful Property ~ Beautiful Home Country Estate on easily one of the most beautiful pieces of property in all of Agua Dulce! Single story, Hacienda style ranch house, 4,080 sf, 5 Bedrooms/4 bathrooms.

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Formal Dining room. Family-room with raised hearth fireplace and wet bar. The Master suite has a fireplace & giant walk-in closet. Absolutely stunning park like 7.2 flat and usable acres is completely fenced and private. 3 car garage. Incredible views from everywhere on the property. This property will not disappoint.

$1,499,000 8072 Cuddy Valley Road in Frazier Park

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$1,099,000

35356 Sierra Vista Dr, Agua Dulce 91390

Office: 661-904-1323

www.MarilynMerlotinSCV.com MarilynMerlot@sbcglobal.net

D E C E M B E R 1, 2019

Opinion

S U N D AY S I G N A L · 3 9

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

OURVIEWS

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

Thanksgiving and the SCV Extended Family

Yes, Put Up the Lights; You’ll Be Glad You Did

By Richard Budman Owner/Publisher, The Signal

T

hanksgiving is a family day, a day when multiple generations gather together to celebrate and remember the good things we have in our life and to count our blessings.

This year we must also remember the tragic events of Nov. 14. This year we must all say a prayer and think about the lives that were lost and how all of us have been changed forever.

But what do I want to remember most?

I want to remember how our community came together. I want to remember the love, comfort and support that everyone showed. I want to remember how in a horrific time our city responded.

From the William S. Hart Union High School District staff, to teachers and students, to first responders and the Sheriff ’s Department, Henry Mayo Newhall Hospital, the city and all the residents who have now banded together to donate and offer aid

and comfort wherever needed.

On Nov. 14, we all became #SaugusStrong.

This community reacted with class and dignity and I am very proud.

We should all be very proud.

Santa Clarita is defined by the great people who live and work here, and not by this incident.

We are a tight-knit community, and our community has come together in a time of crisis.

This is what we should remember, not one lone random act.

This Thanksgiving Day I will also be reflecting on what I am personally thankful for, my family, my work family, friends and our good health.

My daughter Lauren is bright and healthy and going for her doctorate degree in psychology.

My wife and I have been happily married for 36 years. We have a home in a community we love.

Our dog Max is about as healthy as a 15-year-old dog can be.

See BUDMAN, page 41

By David Hegg

I

almost didn’t put Christmas lights on the house this year.

It wasn’t that I came across some cogent intellectual reason to end the tradition. I was just feeling lazy and didn’t especially relish the idea of getting all the strings out, replacing the broken bulbs or entire strings, and scaling the roof on my increasingly wobbly knees.

And besides, I didn’t put them up last year since none of our kids planned to come home for Christmas, and we didn’t really miss the lights. Or did we?

Honestly, we did miss them. I missed them. More than that, I missed being the kind of man and husband and father that gets the strings out and climbs up on the roof and lights the house so his family and friends are reminded every night that Christmas is a very special time of the year.

So, the day after Thanksgiving, there I was … standing in my driveway surrounded by piles of white-

wired, clear icicle lights trying to unwind what appeared to be a tightly wound bramble bush of Christmas tradition.

And as I worked at it – in between runs to Home Depot for all new strings – I was reminded once again why traditions are important. I couldn’t help thinking how my kids and their spouses would smile and tell me how great the lights were when they arrived on Christmas Eve. More than that, with each string I put up, I envisioned my little granddaughters’ eyes as they turned the corner and Papa’s house came into view, all shimmering with golden white lights and wreaths beribboned with Christmas plaid.

Traditions must never be jettisoned as old, if they are worthy traditions in the first place, even though our appreciation of them wanes as we allow their power to be muted by our familiarity with them.

The problem is us, not the traditions. The solution is to lift the veil See HEGG, page 40

READERLETTERS

A Reply on the Evangelicals Re: “The Power of Faith in U.S. Politics,” by Jonathan Kraut (Nov. 26).

Not all evangelical Christians are Protestant (those who broke away from Rome, during the Reformation). Some, like Baptists and other Bible-believing churches, come from the Anabaptists, which were Bible-believing from the time of Paul, the Apostle and NEVER a part of Roman Catholicism. This is just to clarify things for you. But let’s get to the questions you want answers for.

1. Does Trump still have their support after he has been in office for three years?

The answer is “Yes, he does!” We back his policies, his support for law enforcement, veterans and military. We back his choices for good constitutional judges, not those who legislate from the bench based on the flowing wind of popular opinion.

We back his decision to build a wall to protect the sovereignty of the U.S. We back his pro-life stance, which he has now proclaimed. And yes, he may have been for “choice,” which means murder of the unborn, but we are all sinners and we (Christians) do make different choices to change our sinful ways. We support his job growth for all citizens, which is greater than the last five presidents. We prefer what a person does, more than what he says.

2. One question that confounds me is why Trump continues to have such a strong loyalty among evangelicals. Trump’s conduct is anything but Christ-like.

Christ-like is something we Christians always strive for but will never attain, while we are alive.

Our flesh always wars with our spirit and vice versa. We strive to do God’s will in our life, to walk in His ways. God can use ANYBODY to accomplish His will. Jonathan, if you were familiar with Holy Scripture, you would see how God uses even heathens to do His will. Take for example in the Old Testament how God used Nebuchadnezzar to See LETTERS, page 41

4 0 · S U N D AY S I G N A L

D E C E M B E R 1, 2019

Opinion

Contact: Tim Whyte, Signal Editor Phone: 661-287-5591 | Email: letters@signalscv.com Mail: 26330 Diamond Place, Suite 100, Santa Clarita, CA 91350

BLACK&WHYTE

D R AW I N G CO N C LU S I O N S D R E W L I T TO N

You Know What Lightens the Mood? Nudist News course. That’s where you’d expect a nudist press release to come fter a fall filled from. with fires, car It made note of some crashes, political interesting facts about strife, shootings and a nudists, other than the general sense of dread fact that they pretty and tragedy, this past much do everything al week I got a press release fresco. that was just the ticket to For example... lighten the mood as we head into the Did you know that nudists are thick of the holiday season. mostly college-educated, and over It came from the AANR: The age 45? That’s not the demographic American Association for Nudist you envision when you picture a Recreation. (You can visit them nudie beach, is it? online at aanr.com for They’re also more more info, if you’re so likely than the inclined…) The head- Is there a Santa clothed public to line, predictably, was have memberships Clarita nudist club “The Naked Truth at warehouse stores, about Nudists.” which leads one hanging around Drat, they didn’t to ask, since their send photos. clothing budgets are that we don’t know There wasn’t a local probably a fraction angle — at least, I about? Are any of of yours and mine, didn’t think so — so what, exactly, are our local political I didn’t assign it to a they buying at Sam’s reporter. We get a lot Club? leaders nudists in of press releases — A lot of paper towhundreds per week, el, I suppose. And their off time?

(That easily — and most of sunscreen. Giant them head right into would make us tubs of sunscreen. the digital equivalent according look at City Council toNudists, of the round file. As the AANR news a local newspaper, release, hold careers we pretty much stick and school board in “military, educato the local stuff, and tion, business, medmeetings a lot considering the fact icine, government, that, as far as I know, differently, wouldn’t communications there are no Santa and entrepreneurial Clarita Valley nudist it?) ventures.” They also colonies or beaches, tend to be politically this one wasn’t makactive and live in ing the cut for the suburban and rural areas. “Key politpages of The Mighty Signal. ical issues of concern are tax reform, But, it did make me stop and look. terrorism and saving endangered Sort of like an actual nudist would, I species.” guess.

Hey. That sounds like us. Is there The press release was datelined

By Tim Whyte Signal Editor

A

“Kissimmee, Florida,” because of

See WHYTE, page 41

HEGG

Continued from page 39

of familiarity, and once again marvel at the deep meaning and sheer delight all significant traditions carry along from one generation to the next.

Christmas is full of these traditions, meant to remind us that events that night outside Bethlehem forever changed human history. Our traditions reach out in the midst of our otherwise mundane lives, and grab our attention, insisting we not treat it like any other season.

The lights remind us of the angelic choir that split the night with their announcement of the Savior’s birth. The traditional carols give our hearts a voice to sing and celebrate the miracle of “God with us.” The special cookies, breads, and candy tell the children good times have come, and when they wonder why, we have great teaching moments in which to explain to them the wonderful story of God’s great gift to mankind.

And, of course, the gifts almost certainly take center stage among the traditions. Yet, in this case we must be careful not to let the manipulative consumerism of our day run roughshod over the deeper meaning of Christmas, or over our checkbooks. Our gifts for one another

must remind us that Christmas commemorates the day God fulfilled his age-old promise to send the Savior whose mission it would be to win a great victory over death and sin, and provide a means of rescue for all of us mired in them.

So, I challenge you to take a fresh look at the Christmas traditions.

Take a walk and look at the lights.

Attend a Christmas concert or play.

And pull your Bible from the shelf and read the story in Luke 2 of the first Christmas Eve. This year I’m committed to singing the carols as though for the first time, and actually reading the many Christmas cards we’ll receive from friends and family around the world. I’m also going to brave the mall on some of the busiest days just to join in the hustle and bustle of the season.

And most of all, one still dark night, I’m going to bundle up my granddaughters and walk outside to let them squeal and smile at the sights of Papa’s lights. After all, traditions are best enjoyed when viewed afresh through the eyes of the young. And maybe that’s where traditions matter most.

David Hegg is senior pastor of Grace Baptist Church and a local resident.“Ethically Speaking” appears Sundays.

D E C E M B E R 1, 2019

S U N D AY S I G N A L · 4 1

Opinion

BUDMAN

Continued from page 39

I have a great team of very hard-working, dedicated Signal employees committed to putting out a great, quality, community newspaper.

I’m thankful to be able to give back to the community I love and call home.

Most importantly I am thankful for what we should all be thankful for and how truly lucky we are to live in the Santa Clarita Valley.

Yes, we do have our problems here just like every other community in the world.

You can’t have a city of 300,000 people without some crime, some homelessness and some mental illness.

A great community is not a community without problems. It’s a community that takes care of its problems in an open, caring and professional manner.

We complain about our traffic and yes, we have the growing pains of a city that is so desirable that many people want to move here.

LETTERS

Continued from page 39

destroy His Temple and used Cyrus the Great and Darius to rebuild it. In the New Testament, God used Pilate to sentence Jesus Christ to death because that must take place. God can use Donald J. Trump to accomplish HIS will as HE sees fit.

3. Is Trump open to collaboration and finding harmonious solutions with the opposition party?

The answer is “Yes,” but the opposition party has been so focused on im-

WHYTE

Continued from page 40

a Santa Clarita nudist club hanging around that we don’t know about?

Are any of our local political leaders nudists in their off time? (That would make us look at City Council and school board meetings a lot differently, wouldn’t it?)

The release goes on to say nudists “enjoy cooking, but mostly using crock pot and oven bake recipes (avoiding stove-top splatters).”

Yikes. Can you imagine? You’re

These are community leaders who care about the people in their community, then try to make it a better place by getting involved.

Santa Clarita is defined by the people who live and work here. The entire community of caring, giving people, who support each other and make a difference.

We could have it a lot worse. A lot worse.

I think about how lucky we are to live in Santa Clarita where we have good government, a fantastic Sheriff ’s Department and prosperity.

We have planned growth that is the envy of the entire country, we have five City Council members with whom you might not agree all the time, but

peachment and finding false charges against him, when will the opposition party ever want to work with Trump?

That question should be posed to the opposition party.

4. On desperate Christians...

You have a lot of questions about desperate Christians, downtrodden and the like, how do you know they are all Christians? One thing, Jonathan, how many are you willing to house in your personal house before you will say, “That’s enough!” Can’t they build their own country? As much as we would like to, we can not save everybody. (By the way, many

who are doing what they believe is the best for the city they live in and love. We have a great city manager and staff.

We are one of the safest cities in the nation and we have a surplus.

We have community leaders who give so much of their time and money, it’s incredible. They are all trying to make our community a better place to live, work, go to school, shop and play.

They are community leaders not because they donate their time and money. These are community leaders who care about the people in their community, then try to make it a better place by getting involved.

Santa Clarita is defined by the people who live and work here.

The entire community of caring, giving people, who support each other and make a difference.

I love Santa Clarita.

Thank God we live in Santa Clarita Happy Thanksgiving to ALL! Richard Budman is the owner and publisher of The Signal.

churches and individuals do support the downtrodden, here in the U.S. and around the world.)

5. The truth will not set Trump free.

Really? If the truth is the truth and facts are facts and not opinion or “hearsay,” then by all means Donald Trump will be free. How many hurdles (false allegations) has he cleared already? How many more will he face in the future? The Democrats stated that they wanted to destroy Trump from the moment he was elected.

They have not stopped, nor found one bit of unethical wrongdoing to charge him with. He is not graceful

I wonder. When the nudists clean up a beach, do they wear rubber gloves? making fish and chips on the stove top, and the second you drop that first beer-battered piece of cod (would that be a cod piece?) into the frying pan, zap! Your nether regions are scorched with hot peanut oil.

Nudists, the AANR release says, “read and watch news programming, and listen and contribute to public talk/classical radio.”

They are also nature lovers — no surprise there — are concerned for the environment and regularly participate in beach cleanups.

I wonder. When the nudists clean up a beach, do they wear rubber gloves?

Recreationally, the release says, nudists enjoy outdoor activities including bicycling (geez, a bike seat

like Barack Obama. He’s not as slick as Bill Clinton. He fights back, unlike George W.. Bush. He is rough at the edges, and at times biting, but he is my president! I stand with him! So do many of my church family, my fellow law enforcement friends, and my veteran friends.

Bob Galarneau, Canyon Country Submit a Letter to the Editor

Include name, address & phone number; Anonymous letters are not printed; Email: letters@signalscv.com; Mail to: Letters to the Editor, The Signal, 26330 Diamond Place, Ste. 100, Santa Clarita, CA 91350.

is uncomfortable enough when you’re wearing pants), trail hiking (uh, poison oak is one thing on an arm or a leg, never mind “down there”), canoeing, petanque (I looked it up, and that’s a lawn game involving, ahem, steel balls), tennis (fuzzy balls), skinny dipping (well, duh), and, last but not least, pickle ball.

Pickle ball. On a nude beach.

I’m just going to leave that one right there.

Tim Whyte is editor of The Signal.

His column appears Sundays. On Twitter: @TimWhyte.

42 · S U N D AYS I G N A L

CROSSWORD TIME

D E C E M B E R 1, 2019

THE VILLAGE IDIOT

True meaning of Christmas TV specials

By Jim Mullen Signal Contributing Writer

‘T

is the season for Christmas television specials. What better way to celebrate the birth of the baby Jesus than by watching “A WWE Christmas Smackdown”?

What could possibly say “Peace on Earth, good will to men” more than a special called “Katy Perry Goes a-Caroling Buck Naked”? How about this for spirituality — “Survivor: Bethlehem”!

What could recall Mary and Joseph’s stay in a manger better than an episode of “Christmas Getaways of the Rich and Famous”? No doubt Mary and Joseph would have loved the creche in the foyer of the Aspen billionaire’s house that is bigger, cleaner and much more comfortable than the one where the Holy Family actually spent the night.

It’s funny: Everyone wants a creche, but no one wants to go to the trouble of finding real sheep and goat manure to give it that authentic holiday smell.

Sure to be a holiday classic, “Three Wise Guys” is a twist on the tale of the Three Wise Men that you and your family will want to watch for years to come. In it, three capos from “The Sopranos” come to visit the baby Jesus by following a bright star they see in the night sky. Naturally, they run into trouble on the way, and they have to whack a few people before getting to Bethlehem. When they finally get to the manger, they give Jesus gold, frankincense and myrrh — all of which have “miraculously” fallen off the back of a camel.

By the time Dec. 25 rolls around, we’ll have seen “A Country Christmas,” “An R&B Christmas,” “A Rock Christmas,” “A ‘The Rock’ Christmas,” “An Xtreme Christmas,” “A Game of Thrones Christmas,” “A Lil Nas X-mas,” “A Real Housewives of Beverly Hills Christmas,” “A CSI

Christmas,” “A Kardashian Christmas” and “A Motocross Christmas.”

Then come the “gift guide” specials, which are just thinly disguised advertisements: “Where To Shop for Christmas,” “Expensive Presents You Should Buy for People You Don’t Even Like That Much,” “We’re Not Kidding, Get Out There and Buy More Stuff for Christmas,” and “If You Don’t Spend Every Penny You Have On Christmas Presents, The Terrorists Will Win.” One of the many ads you’ll see on these specials is for a robot vacuum cleaner and its new twin, a robot mop. Mary and Joseph sure could have used one of those. Those carpenters always make a mess; I’ll bet their house was full of wood chips and sawdust all the time. A robot shop-vac would have come in handy, too, and Joseph could have used one of those electric razors you see advertised this time of year. He always looks a little scruffy in the pictures.

By year’s end, we’ll have seen hundreds of 20-minute segments during the morning news about “how to Christmas shop.” Isn’t Christmas shopping pretty much the same as non-Christmas shopping? You go to a store, pick up the thing you want, take it to the counter and pay for it. Do we really need TV shows to explain it? It’s shopping, not brain surgery. Unless you’re buying someone a brain operation as a Christmas present. Which is probably not a bad gift idea.

There are specials that show us what toys are “hot” this Christmas.

But the toys are only hot because they’re on TV. If TV didn’t tell us 50 times a day how hot the new toy was, something tells me that it wouldn’t be that hot.

Actually, I don’t get to watch too many of the Christmas specials. It seems I’m never home watching TV this time of year. I’m always out shopping.

Contact Jim Mullen at mullen.jim@ gmail.com.

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TUESDAY,

FOURTH S PARADE OF JULY ROUTE

JULY 3, 201

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A tale of two rescues

Missing puppy found after having run away from scene of crash; animal was hungry, dehydrated when saved

7 years later, crash survivor glad to be alive at daughter’s book-signing

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al njoins Carter’s fight cHyatt The BEST lo urce in the tion so and informa rita Valley!

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Hotel plans to donate event proceeds to child’s battle against Sanfilippo syndrome

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By Brennon Dixson Signal Staff Writer

After hearing about Carter Sarkar, his fight with Sanfilippo syndrome and the recent million-dollar movement to fund his clinical trial, the Hyatt Regency Valencia has announced that it will donate every dollar from its upcoming fireworks viewing event to the young boy from Castaic.

“Our entire staff was deeply moved by the article in Saturday’s paper regarding Carter Sarkar and the fight to save him from Sanfilippo syndrome,” said Natasha Zambrano, sales coordinator at Hyatt Regency Valencia. “We at Hyatt would like to contribute to this fight by offering our parking structure to the community to watch fireworks this upcoming Fourth of July.”

Children who are diagnosed with Sanfilippo syndrome will likely

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Austin Dave/The Signal (See additional photos at signalscv.com)

home In this May 2017 photo, Jennifer Sarkar carries her son Carter to a to get on Ponderosa Street in Castaic. The Sarkar family raised $978,467 a clinical trial that might help Carter’s fight against Sanfilippo syndrome. that could develop muscle pains, experience would fund a clinical trial seizures and then, ultimately, die in give Carter a chance at life.

“Over the years the structure has their mid-to late-teens, said Jennifer been a gathering place to have an Sarkar, Carter’s mother. festivities As a result, the family held a fun- unobstructed view of the Six Flags,” draiser in the past month with the (and fireworks) from goal to donate a million dollars to Zambrano said. the 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization See CARTER, A6 Cure Sanfilippo Foundation, which

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SCV’s tribute to the greats

Concerts in the Park series set to return to Central Park

By Danielle Korzhenyak For The Signal

The crowd-pleasing Concerts in the Park series returns to Santa Clarita for a music-filled summer, starting this weekend at Central Park.

Concerts in the Park are free public events put on by the city of Santa Clarita every Saturday night from July 7 until Aug. 25. The shows start at 7 p.m.

Get ready to break out your lawn chairs and blankets, grab some tasty snacks from local vendors onsite and listen to some of your favorite genre tribute bands coming to the Saugus park.

Here’s a breakdown of each band performing at Concerts in the Park:

July 7

Wanted, a Bon Jovi tribute band, is first up in the lineup of Concerts in the Park. Based out of Los Angeles, the band is made up of professional musicians.

The rock ’n’ roll group had immense success, playing to sold out venues and garnering rave reviews. Wanted was finally created after numerous requests from agents and promoters who worked with the band on other projects.

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