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Sharing Their Uphill Battle OCTOBER 10, 2021

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O C TO B E R 10, 2021

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 3

TABLE OF CONTENTS

THINGS TO DO 4 4 Family fun from mazes to creepy crawlies NEWS FEATURES 5 5 A menu that’s favorable for the fall 6 Fighting the uphill battle against breast cancer 14 Increasing interest in some of our best-kept secrets FROM THE MAYOR 8 8 Keeping Santa Clarita safe FOOD 9 9 Nutritious fall meals ENTERTAINMENT 10 10 ‘The Addams Family 2’ — not for families Awards season has arrived HEALTH 12 12 Change up your body care routine SENIOR LIVING 15 15 Easing arthritis joint pain in the morning HOME 16 16 Selecting a remodeler GARDENING 17 17 What’s up with all these mosquito bites? PETS 19 19 Protecting you and your dogs from rabies AUTOMOTIVE 20 20 How to capitalize on the used-car boom KIDS & FAMILY 21 21 Donna’s Day: Summer still lingers in the backyard Junior Whirl PUZZLES 22 OPINION 23

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1The value listed is per booking and equals the total of the Dream Getaways offerer2 plus the AAA Member Benefit3. 2Dream Getaways offer: Valid on new bookings booked July 23, 2021 – October 22, 2021 for travel July 23, 2021 – June 30, 2022. Minimum five nights’ accommodations at a participating resort or hotel and round trip airfare required (excludes Hawai’i interisland flights). Savings of $150 is not reflected in rates shown and applies to Hawai’i, Mexico and Caribbean destinations with participating resorts. 3AAA Member Benefit: $50 activity voucher is nonrefundable, nontransferable, has no cash value and applies to the following destinations: Hawai‘i, Mexico, Central & South America and select Caribbean destinations. Savings not reflected in rates shown and applies to the following destinations: USA (excluding Hawai’i), Canada – $25 savings; Australia, New Zealand, Europe, Asia, select Caribbean destinations (Anguilla, Barbados, Bermuda, Bonaire, British Virgin Islands, Curaçao, Grand Cayman, Grenada, Martinique, St. Barts, St. Croix, St. Kitts & Nevis, St. Martin and St. Maarten, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, and Turks & Caicos), Tahiti (French Polynesia), Fiji and Cook Islands – $50 savings. 4Rate is per person, land and round trip economy-class airfare from the featured gateway (other gateways available, rates may vary), based on double occupancy for check-in on November 1, 2021 in ocean view king room accommodations at Aston Waikiki Beach Hotel on O’ahu and includes taxes, fees and surcharges collected by seller at time of booking. 5Rate is per person, land and round trip economy-class airfare from the featured gateway (other gateways available, rates may vary), based on double occupancy for check-in on December 1, 2021 in resort view room accommodations at Sheraton Maui Resort & Spa on Maui and includes taxes, fees and surcharges collected by seller at time of booking. 6Rate is per person, land and round trip economy-class airfare from the featured gateway (other gateways available, rates may vary), based on double occupancy for check-in on December 1, 2021 in junior suite room accommodations at Riu Palace Cabo San Lucas All-Inclusive in Cabo San Lucas and includes taxes, fees and surcharges collected by seller at time of booking. 7Kids 17 & younger stay free in same room as adults using existing bedding at the Aston Waikiki Beach Hotel or Sheraton Maui Resort & Spa. Occupancy limits apply. AAA Travel Alert: Many travel destinations have implemented COVID-19-related restrictions. Before making travel plans, check to see if hotels, attractions, cruise lines, tour operators, restaurants and local authorities have issued health and safety-related restrictions or entry requirements. The local tourism board is a good resource for updated information. For all offers, unless otherwise indicated: Rates quoted are accurate at time of publication & are per person, based on double occupancy. Gratuities, transfers, excursions and, for non-airinclusive offers, airfare, taxes, fees & surcharges, are additional. Advertised rates do not include any applicable daily resort or facility fees payable directly to the hotel at check-out; such fee amounts will be advised at the time of booking. Rates, terms, conditions, availability, itinerary, taxes, fees, surcharges, deposit, payment, cancellation terms/conditions & policies subject to change without notice at any time. Cruise rates capacity-controlled. Advance reservations through AAA Travel required to obtain Member Benefits & savings which may vary based on departure date. Rates may be subject to increase after full payment for increases in government-imposed taxes or fees and, except for air-inclusive offers, for supplierimposed fees. Blackout dates & other restrictions may apply. As to Air-Inclusive Offers Only: Other restrictions may apply, including, but not limited to, baggage limitations & charges for first & second checked bag, standby policies & fees, nonrefundable airfare/airline tickets, advance purchase requirements & supplier & airline-imposed change/cancellation fees up to & including the price of the fare plus any applicable fare differential (which may involve pre-notification deadlines). Air component of packaged offers may be nonrefundable; refunds are subject to supplier & airline terms & conditions. Supplier & airline fees & policies may vary. Contact your supplier & ticketing airline for more information; for baggage fees & other details, see www.iflybags.com. Rates involving round trip air transportation for travel dates or from gateways other than those advertised may differ. Not responsible for errors or omissions. Your local AAA Club acts as an agent for Pleasant Holidays®. To learn how we collect and use your information, visit the privacy link at AAA.com. ©2021 Auto Club Services, LLC. All Rights Reserved.

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THINGSTODO

Family Fun — From mazes to creepy crawlies By Michele E. Buttelman Signal Staff Writer

here is still plenty of October left to enjoy the fun the month brings. Here are a few places for some fall family fun, including a haunted corn maze and a creepy crawly exhibit.

Corn mazes and pumpkin patches Sunday, Oct. 17 Calabasas Pumpkin Festival Lost Hills Road at Juan Bautista de Anza Park, Calabasas 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Info calabasaspumpkinfestival.com This annual festival is returning this year as a one-day event. It features live musical performances, vendors, pumpkin painting, professional pumpkin carving, food, pumpkin treats and a costume dance party. Ticket prices are $10 online and $15 at the gate, Children under 2 are free. There is free admission for children 6 and under before 11 a.m. if they are in costume. Cash only at the gate. ATMs on site. Through Oct. 31 Frosty’s Forest The Dark Harvest Haunted Corn Maze Thursday and Sunday, 7 p.m. - 11 p.m. Friday and Saturday, 7 p.m. to 12 a.m. 14861 Ramona Ave., Chino Info www.darkharvesthaunt.com You start with a massive corn maze that takes nearly 30 minutes to complete. In addition to the maze, there is a zombie paintball attraction, scare zone and several other frightful surprises springing forth from the pumpkin patch. Tickets are $30 per person, which includes the pumpkin patch admission. 2021 Corn Maze : God Bless the USA Monday through Friday, 1 p.m. - 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Forneris Farms God Bless the USA Corn Maze 15200 Rinaldi St., Mission Hills Info fornerisfarms.com Expect to get lost in this amazing patriotic corn maze that, from above,

looks like the American flag with the words “God Bless the USA.” Tickets for the maze, train ride and photo opp area are $20 for weekends, discounted for weekdays. The pumpkin patch admission is $5 per person. Kidspace Museum Halloween Parade Daily 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. (closed Mondays) 480 N. Arroyo Blvd., Pasadena Info kidspacemuseum.org/ Everyone is invited to march, dance and strut the orange catwalk in a fanciful Halloween parade — costumes encouraged! There is free pumpkin decorating, silly story times and upclose visits with the museum’s hairynot-scary spider friends. Get creative making costumes, masks, crowns and accessories out of cardboard in Ye Olde Costume Shoppe, a free family program at Imagination Workshop. All Halloween activities and access to Kidspace exhibitions and outdoor spaces are included with the $14.95 general admission. Children under one are free. Tickets must be reserved online at kidspace museum.org.

Scary Stuff Through Dec. 5 Spider Pavilion Daily (closed Tuesdays) 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County 900 Exposition Blvd., Los Angeles Info nhm.org/experience-nhm/exhibitions-natural-history-museum/spider-pavilion Visit the Natural History Museum to check out its annual Spider Pavilion, the only Spider Pavilion in the United States. Stroll through the open-air pavilion and marvel at the many different spiders and their intricate webs. Find the goldenrod crab spider which can change color from yellow to pink, depending on the flower on which they sit. Discover more than 500 spiders, some local, as well as exotic spiders from as far away as Malaysia. You’ll see all this not behind glass, but in the wide-open green space framed by a handsome, netted pavilion. Knowledgeable gallery interpreters are on hand to guide visitors. Some spiders on view behind glass include wolf spiders, tarantulas and jumping

spiders. Advanced tickets are recommended. Museum admission is $15 plus $6 for the Spider Pavillion. Los Angeles County residents can visit the museum for free from 3 p.m. - 5 p.m. See OCTOBER, page 18

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N E W S F E AT U R E

Making a menu that’s favorable for the fall season By Caleb Lunetta Signal Senior Staff Writer

he leaves are changing, the air is getting chillier and the light colors around your home decor are becoming slightly cozier. Fall is here, and with it comes the sometimes general need to begin preparing dishes appropriate for the season: Lighter menus with salads and burgers are being slightly transitioned to heartier foods, such as chili, stews and cinnamon desserts. “I think there’s probably two reasons, that we always go into seasonal cooking and that is: One, food memory is very strong. Whatever we grew up with in seasonal food is what we’re going to rely on and be comforted by,” said Merry Graham, a local baking and cooking expert in Newhall. “The other thing is the craving of lightness and light foods in the summer and then comforting, homey or warm cooking foods of winter and fall.” Graham believes that the tradition of changing the falls with seasons, and the subsequent association that we make with certain foods dates back generations and when we lived off the land to utilize whatever produce was on the land that season. “So, I can’t find pomegranates in June usually, so I’m not going to have pomegranates,” said Graham. “But by golly, by the end of October, I’m going to start using pomegranates.” The availability of food then created a desire for people to continually eat those foods during certain times of the year, and so a generational desire for seasonal diets was created. But what are the seasonal foods of fall and what are the best ways to cook/find them?

Possible courses

While salads and barbecue shrimp and salads may be some of the more popular dishes during summer, Graham said dishes like butternut squash soup and creamy bisques, potato-loaded chowder and other hearty meals are associated with the fall. “They used to have to use the potatoes, because they would run out of the fresh ingredients from summer and have to use the root vegetables during fall,” said Graham. “But then

Chuck roast veggie stew

Chuck roast chuck roast chili

Merry Graham and her famous foods. FOOD PHOTOS COURTESY MERRY GRAHAM. INSET PHOTO BY DAN WATSON / THE SIGNAL

also fall in Southern California still means we can grill.” Graham said just last week she grilled with what she described as “warm spices,” such as cinnamon and Chinese Five Spice, to mix together with some pork tenderloin. She added that she grilled some apples and other fruit along with a charred poblano, chopped it all up and put it on top. “It was a very simple fall dinner and it tasted so much like fall because of the roasted apples,” said Graham. “So, anything with roasted apples, such as stuffed roasted apples with sausage.” If grilling is not an option for you and you’re looking for something easier to make your fall foods, try the InstaPot. According to Graham, you can make all your soups stews, your beans and rice, all in a single crock pot all day. “It’s just a quick way to form a lot of comforting flavors and it’s one thing that you can have to make sure your dinners are done in 30 minutes and you don’t have to cook all day.” Co-owner of Egg Plantation Shannon Mee agreed with Graham that recipes for fall are associated with a feeling of home, and that people seem to crave heartier foods come fall. “The first thing that comes to mind is nostalgia: coming back home to the

amazing smell of a freshly prepared dinner that you recognize,” said Mee. “Bringing back memories of family recipes and eating fresh flavorful ingredients around the family table.” She added that if one is looking to create a smorgasbord of fall flavors, or drafts some ideas for creating a fall-themed dinner, there are a couple of suggestions he could make. “Another reason people associate fall with heartier foods is because as cooler fall weather approaches appetites generally shift to crave heavier comfort food recipes such as: • Crock Pot Recipes • Soups • Stews • Casseroles • Chili • Chicken or Steak Pot Pie

Chili

A staple of any fall feast or menu in anyone’s home, according to the local experts, is chili. “The most important ingredient is the chili, and this might be a shocker, but it’s the chili, ‘’ said Scott Ervin, the CFO and co-founder of feedSCV, when asked what tips and tricks he might have for the hearty meal. “My tip and trick there is to actually get dried chiles at the market to roast them yourself and to create your own chili powder, because it’s not very dif-

ficult.” With the help of a grinder that will help create the freshness you won’t be able to get from a store-bought chili dish — which can oftentimes be made long before you it gets to your table — and stores like Vallarta — who carry several different kinds of dry chilies — one can create a hearty chili that contains fresh flavors, Ervin said. As for the meat, Ervin says a trap that people may fall into when it comes to the meat selection is using a filet mignon or New York strip. However, because of the low-fat content on those cuts, and their being very tinder, the tendency is for people to overcook them. “Chuck (roast) is probably the best,” said Ervin. “And I look to throw in some tri tip sometimes…if you’re going to make a green chili, I would use a lighter meat like a pork, like a pork shoulder probably.” Some people like to cube their meat when it comes to chili while others use ground beef, but Ervin says he likes to do both for mouth-feel and texture. However, you cut it though, Ervin says to keep in mind that both the meats and chili flavor are supposed to be the stars of your dish. 

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N E W S F E AT U R E

Fighting the uphill battle against breast cancer By Emily Alvarenga Signal Senior Staff Writer

“W

hen will you be done with treatment?” It’s the most common question metastatic breast cancer patients receive, but also one of the hardest to answer. Unfortunately, unlike many other forms of cancer, there’s no current way to put an end to breast cancer once it’s metastasized. Metastatic breast cancer, also known as stage 4 breast cancer, is breast cancer that’s spread to another part of the body, most commonly the liver, brain, bones or lungs, according to the American Cancer Society. Breast cancer can come back in another part of the body months or years after the original diagnosis and treatment, and nearly 30% of women diagnosed with early-stage breast cancer develop MBC. When patients are diagnosed with breast cancer at lower stages, oncologists often refer to it as curable, but when it reaches stage 4, it’s referred to as “treatable” rather than curable, as these patients will need ongoing treatment to keep the cancer at bay, explained Dr. Rena Callahan, an oncologist at UCLA Santa Clarita Valley Community Cancer Clinic. “We’ll be in treatment for the rest of our lives,” said Eva Miranda Crawford, who was diagnosed with MBC in 2018. “Right now, it's a terminal disease, and we want it to be chronic.” MBC is currently considered incurable, and its three- to five-year survival rate is about 28%, according to the ACS.

Resources

here are a number of local cancer support groups and places to get information if you have questions: The Michael Hoefflin Foundation, a nonprofit that focuses on helping pediatric cancer patients and their families. It’s located at 26027 Huntington Lane, Unit F, Santa Clarita, and can be reached at (661) 250-4100 Circle of Hope has a myriad of ways to help for the entire spectrum of cancer for Santa Clarita Valley families:.It’s located at 23033 Lyons Ave., No. 3, Newhall, and can be reached at (661) 254-5218. The Santa Clarita Valley unit for the American Cancer Society is located at 25020 W. Ave. Stanford, Valencia, and can be reached at (661) 298-0886. 

Eva Miranda Crawford shares a fun moment with her husband and children. COURTESY PHOTO

However, there are treatments that slow the cancer, extending the patient's life while also improving their quality of life, according to Callahan and Dr. Sylvia Fowler, chief of the department of hematology/oncology at Kaiser Permanente Panorama City. Over the last few decades, an MBC patient’s average life expectancy has continued to extend as treatments emerge and evolve. “As a result, we have over 150,000 women in the United States that are living with metastatic breast cancer,” Callahan noted, “and many of them are just going about their lives, many have jobs — and you might not even know it, depending on what kind of treatment they're on … A lot of patients on these types of therapies are living with a disease as opposed to being completely defined by it.” This has become true for Crawford, the daughter of city of Santa Clarita Mayor Bill Miranda, as well as Santa Clarita resident Tracey Bruckner, both of whom are finding ways to balance their lives and their ongoing cancer treatment. Being diagnosed with incurable cancer is something Bruckner and Crawford described as being blindsided. “None of us have any guarantee — you can walk

outside and get hit by a bus,” Bruckner said. “You could get hit by a bus tomorrow, and the only … difference is we see our bus, and we see it driving slowly toward us,” Crawford added.

One of the 30%

Bruckner, who has a family history of breast cancer, remembers the day she received her life-changing mammogram like it was yesterday. A month late for the routine procedure and feeling fine, she recalls calling the doctor’s office and asking for their soonest appointment. “They were like, ‘Well, we have a cancellation today,’ and I turned around and went,” Bruckner said, adding that it was then that doctors discovered a lump that turned out to be cancerous. While the first oncologist told her she’d need a lumpectomy, she sought a second opinion and another found two more spots, both of which came back cancerous, as well. Bruckner was diagnosed with stage 1 breast cancer, and though the lumps were all less than one centimeter, she opted for a double mastectomy. “I was scared to death,” she added. “When you’re scared, you're just like, ‘I don't want to die, just take them off.’” She then spent the next five years on a hormone

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S U N D AYS I G N A L · 7

N E W S F E AT U R E blocker and returned for annual checkups, but it wasn’t until year eight that her blood test came back with elevated tumor markers, an alert that something isn’t right. It was then that Bruckner joined one of the 30% of women whose cancer metastasized, as doctors discovered Bruckner’s cancer had spread to her T12 vertebra in her spine. She then received stereotactic body radiation therapy, an innovative and precise treatment that delivers higher doses of radiation, and was put on a CDK4/6 inhibitor, a newer class of medicine that interrupts the process through which breast cancer cells divide and multiply. While she’s had no evidence of disease since November 2019, Bruckner continues to have elevated tumor markers and has scans every three months. “That's a big part of living with it is the scans,” Bruckner said, noting it’s the uncertainty of whether she’ll get a call that says the cancer has returned that’s difficult.

Stage 4 from day 1

While Crawford, too, was diagnosed with breast cancer after a routine mammogram, she was told right off the bat it was stage 4 in July 2018. Though she’d had back pain the year prior, an ER visit resulted in nothing found, and it wasn’t until she received more throughout scans following the mammogram that doctors discovered innumerable tumors all up and down her spine, hip, bones, skull and liver. Crawford had hip surgery to stabilize her hip, and a prophylactic rod was placed in her left hip, leaving her learning to re-walk as she began chemotherapy. Because she was in palliative care, Crawford had to get a nanny to help care for her kids, who were 3, 5 and 7 years old at the time. Crawford received chemotherapy until December 2018, followed by a lumpectomy when the cancer had cleared out elsewhere, physical therapy to get her strength back and then more than 40 rounds of radiation. Since then, Crawford has improved but continues to receive hormone blockers every three weeks via infusion through a port in her arm. This has become her new normal, as she works to spread awareness for MBC.

Shining a light on MBC

“We often talk about early breast cancer, but we don't talk about metastatic breast cancer enough,” Fowler said. Bruckner, who said she continues to find herself saying that she doesn’t want to scare people, and Crawford both believe it’s time to start talking about MBC, finding new ways to look at breast cancer awareness. “We're all working together to eradicate or at least make the disease viable,” Crawford said. “The more we help the (stage) 4’s, the less any other stage has to be afraid of the 4’s.”

Tracey Bruckner enjoys a trip with her family. COURTESY PHOTO

While 98% of all breast cancer-related deaths are from MBC, only 2-5% of the money for breast cancer research is dedicated toward understanding MBC or finding solutions to extend the lives of MBC patients, according to METAvivor, an organization dedicated specifically to those with MBC. Conversely, 100% of funds raised by METAvivor go toward research grants, which remains the sole U.S. organization dedicated to awarding annual stage 4 breast cancer research, according to METAvivor.

METAvivor is teaming up with Moore Fight Moore Strong on Oct. 13 for the third annual #LightUpMBC global landmark campaign, aimed at shining a light on the importance of awareness and funding for stage 4 MBC research. Here in the SCV, Santa Clarita City Hall is set to join landmarks across the globe in illuminating in green, pink and teal for the nationally recognized Metastatic Breast Cancer Awareness Day. For more information or to donate, visit donate. metavivor.org/fundraiser/3273809. 

awareness By Emily Alvarenga Signal Senior Staff Writer

• Exercising, which has been shown to reduce the recurrence rate;

ll breast cancer isn’t the same,” Callahan noted. “There are multiple different subtypes of breast cancer, so we make our treatment decisions based on what subtype of breast cancer a patient has.” That being said, it’s important for breast cancer patients to follow the recommendations of their treatment team and use all the treatment modalities that incrementally improve survival and decrease the chances of developing MBC, Callahan said. Additionally, Fowler suggests breast cancer patients make lifestyle changes that can help to reduce the chance of recurrence or metastasis, which include:

• Eating a diet that is low in fat;

“A

• Maintaining as close to an ideal body weight as possible;

• Reducing alcohol intake, as alcohol may increase the risk of breast cancer. Both oncologists agree that it’s also very important to follow up with your medical oncologist for at least 10 years from your diagnosis. Callahan also implores those who are diagnoses with MBC shouldn’t feel guilty, as it’s about moving forward and not looking backward, wondering what you could have done differently. Therapies continue to extend life expectancy, so there’s reason to be hopeful, Callahan added. Fowler also suggests MBC patients seek out supportive resources, such as support groups. 

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F R O M T H E M AY O R

Keeping Santa Clarita safe By Bill Miranda Santa Clarita City Mayor

anta Clarita is consistently recognized as being one of the safest places in the nation to live and raise a family. This is in no small part due to the tireless work of the women and men of the Santa Clarita Valley Sheriff ’s Station. Over the years, as the population has grown in Santa Clarita, Sheriff ’s Station personnel have continued to protect residents and keep our crime rate low. Deputies have also worked closely with the City of Santa Clarita to address traffic safety through enforcement, engineering and education, leading to all-time low collision and injury rates on Santa Clarita roadways. A new chapter will begin for Captain Justin Diez and the deputies and staff of our local station when the new Santa Clarita Valley Sheriff ’s Station opens its doors. The brand-new, 46,000-square-foot station is located on Golden Valley Road between Centre Pointe Parkway and Robert C. Lee Parkway, providing the department with the space and resources it needs to provide the highest level of service to Santa Clarita Valley residents. This new state-of-the-art station boasts an on-site vehicle maintenance facility, a communications tower, fueling station and space for each of the department’s bureaus to work collaboratively to enhance public safety in Santa Clarita. The station is also centrally located SPORTS

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in the City so that deputies can more efficiently provide emergency services throughout the Valley. The construction of this critical facility has been a joint effort between the City and Los Angeles County Fifth District Supervisor Kathryn Barger. The City is grateful for the Supervisor’s commitment to public safety and the partnership with the County to get this project completed and ready to serve Santa Clarita. The City and County will hold a ribbon cutting event to celebrate the completion of the new Sheriff ’s Station on Monday, October 18. Residents can view the ceremony live by visiting the City of Santa Clarita Government page on Facebook at 10 a.m. You can also visit the City’s YouTube channel to watch the entire event at your convenience afterward. Although the facility is complete, it will take several weeks for station staff to transfer operations to the new facility. Once they do, the new Santa Clarita Valley Sheriff ’s Station will be a gamechanger for deputies and residents alike and will strengthen the City’s reputation for protecting individuals and businesses while remaining tough on crime. I highly encourage you to tune in and watch the ribbon cutting to help celebrate the start of a new era in Santa Clarita. To learn more about the Santa Clarita Valley Sheriff ’s Station project, please visit santa-clarita.com/CIP. Mayor Bill Miranda is a member of the Santa Clarita City Council and can be reached at bmiranda@santa-clarita.com. The views expressed in his column are those of the City and do not necessarily reflect those of The Signal. 

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O C TO B E R 10, 2021

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 9

Nutritous

Meals

ith a return to busy fall routines, it can be challenging for many families to find the time to sit down at the table for nutritious meals. Adding an option like Florida Orange Juice to your family’s routine can help fuel them throughout the day. Whether drinking it on its own or by adding it to recipes like Grilled Turkey Club with Orange Juice-Infused Aioli or Orange Cream Smoothies, you can feel good about incorporating a beverage with essential vitamins and minerals, nutrients for immune system support and no added sugars. Diet and nutritional benefits Both nutritious and delicious, drinking 100% orange juice can increase fruit intake as well as provide key nutrients including vitamin C, potassium, folate, thiamin and magnesium, as well as vitamin D and calcium in fortified juice. Research has found children whose diets include orange juice tend to have healthier diets and higher levels of physical activity compared to those whose do not. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends limiting 100% fruit juice to no more than 4-6 ounces daily for children ages 2-6 and no more than 8 ounces for children ages 7 and older. Immune support 100% orange juice can help support the immune system by providing a variety of vitamins and minerals. For example, an 8-ounce glass of 100% orange juice is an excellent source of vitamin C, which helps protect cells and promote the production and function of immune cells. An 8-ounce serving of fortified 100% orange juice is a good source of vitamin D, which plays an important role in regulating immune response to help fight off bacteria and viruses that get into the body. Additionally, 100% orange juice has many beneficial plant compounds, flavonoids and colorful carotenoids, which work to support the immune system by fighting inflammation and helping cells communicate with each other.

No added sugar Unlike many foods and beverages that contain added sugars, the natural sugar in 100% orange juice comes with vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. In fact, a study published in “Frontiers in Nutrition” found children and adults who consumed 100% orange juice had lower intakes of added sugar compared to those who did not. “Today, children are consuming fewer fruits and vegetables and missing out on key vitamins and minerals,” said Dr. Rosa Walsh, scientific research director at the Florida Department of Citrus. “Many children have inadequate intake of folate, riboflavin, thiamin, vitamin C, vitamin D, potassium, iron and zinc. This doesn’t have to be the case. A glass of 100% orange juice is a convenient option, according to the Dietary Guidelines for Americans, that counts toward fruit intake and one I know children love. Parents should make sure to look for 100% orange juice on the container. This ensures you are serving a nutrient-dense beverage with no added sugar.” Visit floridajuice.com to find more nutritious recipes. (Family Features) 

Orange Cream Smoothies 1 1/2 cups Florida Orange Juice 2 cups ice 6 ounces non-fat vanilla Greek yogurt 1/2 cup vanilla almond or soy milk In blender on medium speed, blend orange juice, ice, Greek yogurt and vanilla almond or soy milk until smooth and creamy. Pour into two tall glasses. Source: Florida Department of Citrus

FOOD

Grilled Turkey Club with Orange Juice-Infused Aioli Orange Juice-Infused Aioli

1 cup mayonnaise 1/2 cup Florida Orange Juice 2 tablespoons chopped parsley 2 cloves garlic, grated 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard Turkey Club 8 slices multi-grain bread 1 cup watercress 8 ounces thinly sliced smoked turkey 4 slices provolone cheese nonstick cooking spray To make aioli In small bowl, whisk mayonnaise, orange juice, parsley, garlic and Dijon mustard. To make turkey club Spread 2-3 teaspoons aioli on four bread slices. Spread watercress on top of aioli. Top watercress with turkey, cheese and remaining bread slices. Spray grill pan, electric skillet or cast-iron skillet with nonstick cooking spray and warm over medium heat. When pan is hot, add sandwiches, cheese side down, and cook until bread is golden brown and cheese has melted, about 4 minutes. Gently flip and cook 2-3 minutes, or until bread is golden brown. Serve with remaining aioli as dipping sauce. 

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

‘The Addams Family 2’ is not a film for the family By Richard Roeper Signal Contributing Writer

‘The Addams Family 2’

 (out of four)

United Artists Releasing presents a film directed by Greg Tiernan and Conrad Vernon. Rated PG. In theaters and on demand.

e often talk about how the best animated films work on two levels, with bright visuals and silly humor and uplifting messages and catchy tunes to keep the little ones entertained, along with the occasional one-liner or visual reference sure to sail over the kids’ heads while scoring with the adults in the audience. The flat and uninspired “Addams Family 2” is the wrong kind of “twofer,” in that it’s often too dark and grotesque and bizarre for children, but also profoundly unfunny when it tries to appeal to the grown-ups. As much as I’d love to say this is a movie the whole family can enjoy, it’s more like this is a movie the whole family can skip altogether. Originally created by Charles Addams in 1938 for a series of cartoons in The New Yorker, the Addams family

has been adapted for a cult TV series in the mid-1960s, a number of animated television shows, a pair of well-executed live action films in the 1990s, a Broadway musical, and most recently the mediocre animated feature film “The Addams Family” in 2019 and now this equally underwhelming sequel, which features a tired plot, justOK visuals, a pun-filled screenplay and the return of Snoop Dogg playing Cousin It as a cool-cat rapper — and that latter element is even more cringe-inducing than it sounds. “Addams Family 2” kicks off with Wednesday Addams (Chloe Grace Moretz) yearning to distance herself from her helicopter parents, while her little brother, Pugsley (Javon Walton), has discovered girls and is taking courtship lessons from creepy Uncle Fester (Nick Kroll). Sensing the children’s unrest, Gomez (Oscar Isaac, sounding for all the world like Triumph the Insult Comic Dog) and Morticia (Charlize Theron) suggest a cross-country road trip, and why not call this movie “Addams Family Vacation” instead of “Addams Family 2”? Anyway. There’s a lot of slapstick hijinks, and exchanges like this, at dinner, as the adults await the chil-

dren’s arrival: Morticia: “Please, Uncle Fester, wait for the children.” Uncle Fester: “Children? I thought we were having chicken!” But these people aren’t cannibals, so that doesn’t make any — ah, what’s the use. The main storyline has Bill Hader voicing a mad scientist called Cyrus Strange, who has planted the idea in Wednesday’s head that she’s not the biological daughter of Gomez and Morticia — and that resonates with Wednesday, seeing as how she’s brilliant and serious and dour, while the rest of the family is so upbeat and cheerful and also kind of dumb. The Addams clan crosses the country in a tricked-out steampunk RV, with Thing (a disembodied hand) at the wheel, wearing a fitness watch (ha ha) while the filmmakers employ such overplayed pop hits as “Jump Around” in an attempt to inject energy into the slapstick bits, and jokes on the order of Gomez saying Cousin It is in Florida for spring break and cracking, “Ghouls Gone Wild, am I right?” We’re even subjected to Lurch singing “I Will Survive” in a falsetto voice at a biker bar, Lord help us all. (On another occasion, Gomez observes, “Billie Eilish is

PHOTO COURTESY IMDB

a little too sunny for my taste, but I’m still a fan.” It’s as if the screenplay was written by software invoking random pop culture references.) Weirdly enough, “Addams Family 2” has a big finale not all that different from the climax of “Venom: Let There Be Carnage,” in that two giant mutant creatures do battle and we don’t care. 

October means awards season has arrived

ere are some of the top films, Richard Roeper is most looking forward to between now and Thanksgiving. In chronological order.

‘The Last Duel’ (Oct. 15) The great Ridley Scott (“Blade Runner,” “Alien,” “Gladiator”) reteams with his “The Martian” star, Matt Damon, in this epic adaptation of Eric Jager’s brilliant book “The Last Duel: A True Story of Trial by Combat in Medieval France,” which tells the story of the Norman knight Jean de Carrouges (Damon), who challenges his friend and protege Jacque Le Gris (Adam Driver) to a duel after Jean’s wife, Marguerite (Jodie Comer from “Killing Eve”), accuses Le Gris of rape. Expect gritty, period-piece realism (the story is set in the 14th century) with thought-provoking insights on issues still relevant today. ‘Dune’ (Oct. 22) The wondrous visionary David Lynch (saddled with a controlling studio) didn’t know quite what to do with Frank Herbert’s landmark 1965 sci-fi

novel, as evidenced by the bomb that was 1984’s “Dune.” Now comes the interpretation by Dennis Villeneuve, whose directing on “Arrival” and “Blade Runner 2049” suggests he might just be the right man for the job of taming this sprawling and unwieldy story about a young man (Timothee Chalamet) who must journey to the most dangerous planet known to humankind in the obligatory mission to save his people. The supporting cast includes Oscar Issac, Josh Brolin, Jason Momoa, Rebecca Ferguson, Stellan Skarsgard, Zendaya, Charlotte Rampling, Dave Bautista and Javier Bardem, so apparently they couldn’t get any talented people to join in. ‘The French Dispatch’ (Oct. 22) This is a Wes Anderson film, so you know it’s going to be quirky, dry, deadpan, whip-smart and occasionally a bit pleased with itself, but usually because it deserves to be pleased with itself. In this three-part anthology, the French foreign bureau of a fictional Kansas newspaper puts together its final issue, and that must have been some Kansas newspaper to have a foreign bureau in France. As usu-

al, Anderson has assembled a killer cast (many of them regulars in his movies), including Bill Murray, Timothee Chalamet (weren’t we just talking about him?), Tilda Swinton, Lea Seydoux, Benicio del Toro, Frances McDormand and Adrien Brody. If everyone brought their Oscars to the set, that would be a lot of Oscars. ‘Last Night in Soho’ (Oct. 29) Edgar Wright (“Shaun of the Dead,” “Scott Pilgrim vs. the World,” “Baby Driver”) is one of those directors who creates original works that are also homages — love letters — to the movies. This time around, Wright directs a psychological and seemingly psychedelic time-tripping horror film, with Thomasin McKenzie as an aspiring fashion designer who is transported to the mod scene in 1960s London and now has the persona of a Swingin’ Sixties nightclub singer. Stay tuned for more of Roeper’s anticipated files this awards’ season. 

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S U N D AYS I G N A L · 1 1

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

John Waite is coming to The Canyon Santa Clarita

on’t miss out! John Waite has been successfully writing, recording and performing some of the most listenable, enduring and appreciated popular music for more than 35 years. The ride began when Waite was tapped as bassist and lead vocalist for the Babys, who rocketed to Top 20 chart positions with a pair of infections hits, “Isn’t it Time” and the monster ballad, “Every Time I Think of You” off 1978’s Head First album.

But it was the album’s rhythmically aggressive and seductive title track where fans got their first glimpse of the authentic John Waite; a no-holdsbarred rock n’ roll performer devoted heart and soul to live performance and making sure every fan

in the audience leaves the concert hall elated. John Waite has also enjoyed an abundant and prodigious solo career, ignited by the single “Change,” which rode the album radio charts for weeks in 1982 and continued with the international smash success of “Missing You,” and others. Hear these hits and more when John Waite comes to The Canyon Santa Clarita on October 29. Tickets are available online through Ticketmaster, or by phone at (888) 645-5006. For more information, visit www.wheremusicmeetsthesoul.com. 

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H E A LT H

Ways to change up your body care routine

hen life has you constantly on the run or buried under your to-do list, it’s easy to overlook self-care. Body care can be even more challenging when the seasons transition. A rushed shower or morning routine, coupled with colder temperatures and dry indoor heating, can leave your skin looking and feeling dry, dull and neglected. While you can’t control the weather or unexpected changes to your day, you can definitely take steps to ensure your body care routine helps combat dry skin during the colder months.

Prep your skin

While a long, hot shower may feel fantastic after a chilly day, it can be damaging to your skin. Did you know that hot water actually strips away the skin’s natural oils and disrupts surface lipids and proteins? To combat dryness, decrease shower length and use tepid water instead of hot. Also, use a moisturizing body wash formulated

ately after each bath or shower, while it’s still damp, can help keep it from drying out,” said Dr. Maiysha Jones, senior scientist and Olay Body Care expert. “We believe in a science-first approach to body care which is why we intentionally include prestige ingredients that dermatologists tell us they trust.” Visit Olay.com for more information about the body lotion collection, which also features Nourishing with Hyaluronic Acid and Revitalizing with Vitamin C.

Hydrate from within

When you start cranking up the heat indoors, don’t forget to hydrate your skin from within by drinking plenty of water throughout the day! This is also the perfect time to use a portable humidifier in rooms where you spend the most time. Moisturizing the air around you can further help keep your skin from drying out.

Dress for the weather

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O C TO B E R 10, 2021

N E W S F E AT U R E

Increasing interest in some of our best-kept secrets Caleb Lunetta Signal Senior Staff Writer

here’s one industry regularly passed over when talk arises about businesses that might have seen a benefit from COVID-19. There’s probably a reason for that in this case — if you didn’t notice it happening, you’re not as likely to find out about it, if it’s done right. Whether it was due to more spare time, self-reflection or something else altogether, there was an uptick in interest about plastic surgery even as many medical procedures saw reductions due to COVID-19 concerns. In a study published by the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, a national organization that represents approximately 8,000 members, plastic surgery decreased overall during 2020 as a result of the 8.1-week average that plastic surgery clinics and practices were closed last year. However, during that time, 11% of women surveyed indicated they are more interested in cosmetic plastic surgery or non-surgical procedures now than before COVID-19. The number is higher among women who have already had a surgery or procedure at approximately 24%. “Also, 35% of women who have previously had at least one cosmetic surgical procedure or minimally invasive procedure plan to spend significantly or somewhat more on treatments in 2021 than in 2020,” read the study released earlier this year. “For more than a year, COVID-19 has largely confined people to their homes during quarantine and significantly impacted nearly every aspect of their lives,” said Dr. Lynn Jeffers. “The pandemic isn’t over, but thanks to vaccines, a new normal is starting to define itself — and some surgeons’ offices that were closed or offered only limited services within the last year are seeing higher demand.”

The trend

“I do believe it is true that there has been a significant increase in cosmetic surgery since COVID kind of took over our world,” said Dr. Peter Grossman of Grossman Plastic Surgery. “I was surprised by that.” Grossman said that he has personally seen a 20%-30% increase since the prior year under COVID, and while the answer is not clear cut as to why it’s happening, he said he had some theories. “I can postulate as to why I think it is, and I think one is we’re living on camera these days,” said Grossman. “People are seeing their face on their Zoom calls, and not everybody is liking what they’re seeing. And prior to that, we’d see our face in the morning and we see our face in the evening in the mirror. But we didn’t see it as much.” He also added he believes people also think that because much of the work transitioned from an office place to a home environment, people have a

The billion-dollar plastic surgery industry is poised to see a post-pandemic surge, if the rise in interest during the recent health crisis is any indication. (MC)

better ability to recuperate from surgeries. “At home, they’re able to still do some work via Zoom or WebEx or however they’re doing their work,” said Grossman. “They could do an elective surgery that otherwise would have required time away from an office or work setting.” The final thing, according to Grossman, was that some people experienced some economic benefit from the government during the pandemic that gave them an ability to pay for elective procedures that they otherwise would not. “That’s more of my impression, but I think that those three factors have played a role in people having more cosmetic surgeries,” said Grossman.

Popular Surgeries

According to Grossman, a number of surgeries — both commonplace and cutting edge — have become more and more frequent among his patients. “There’s some of the more standard surgeries that were aware of: facelifts, tummy tucks, nose jobs, breast augmentation, breast reductions,” said Grossman. “And then there’s some advanced technology procedures that have come into play.” According to American Society of Plastic Surgeons, the top-five cosmetic surgical procedures around the country last year were as follows: • Nose reshaping (352,555 procedures) • Eyelid surgery (352,112 procedures) • Facelift (234,374 procedures) • Liposuction (211,067 procedures)

• Breast augmentation (193,073 procedures) Grossman said that people should be wary however of surgeons that talk high tech or cutting edge when the science is not exactly there yet, or the benefits are minimal when compared to other, more traditional surgeries. “There’s a lot of high-tech things that are out there — lasers, radio-frequency devices, etc. — that do have some benefit, but the hype is a lot greater than the efficacy,” Grossman explained. “For example, a facelift: If our skin is hanging and we’ve got jowls and prominent folds between the corners of our nose and the corners of our mouth and a turkey neck that hangs down, lasers and radio frequency devices and ultrasound devices are not going to get rid of those,” said Grossman. “They’re not a substitute from some of the standard procedures like a facelift, but they do work well in those patients who are just starting to show some signs of aging and aren’t really ready to have a bigger procedure.” Grossman said that while there is some stigma that exists around plastic surgery, he said that the benefits of having a “healthy level of vanity” by looking into the mirror and liking what you see. “You look in the mirror and you don’t like what you see, you tend to get depressed, you tend not to exercise, you tend to not take care of yourself, and it has a downward, negative effect,” said Grossman. “On the other hand, if you like what you see, you tend to be a little bit more upbeat, a little bit more physically fit.” 

O C TO B E R 10, 2021

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 1 5

SENIORLIVING

Easing arthritis joint pain

he sun rises, you flutter your eyes open and take a deep breath. It’s time to start the day, but before you even get out of bed, you know it’s going to be a tough one. For the more than 30 million Americans with osteoarthritis, waking up with soreness or stiffness in the joints can make mornings particularly difficult. “After a night of inactivity due to sleep, people with osteoarthritis may find that their joints tend to feel stiff when they wake up,” explained rheumatologist Dr. Micah Yu. “While mornings can be difficult, they also can be an opportunity to start your morning routine, soothe aches and pains and set yourself up for a productive day.” According to a recent study conducted by OnePoll on behalf of Voltaren, 59% of Americans with osteoarthritis said their arthritis pain makes it difficult to get out of bed in the morning, and 79% said it negatively affects them three or more days a week. Dr. Yu wants to help people who experience arthritis symptoms feel their best. Here are his recommendations for a pain-relieving morning routine:

Wake up well

While still in bed, do a body scan and note any areas of pain. Start at the top of your head and mentally scan down for tension and stiffness. Doing gentle stretches in bed can help awaken the mind and body. For example, open and close your jaw, turn your head slowly from side to side and circle your wrists. For persistent arthritis pain, some people find using a heated blanket or heated mattress pad for 10 to 20 minutes in the morning to be soothing.

Take a warm shower

Heat and moisture work together to effectively soothe arthritis pain, so start your day with a shower. Keep the water warm to help loosen muscles and joints, but not too hot since it may irritate the skin. Personal trainer and fitness expert Pete McCall suggests doing stretches while the warm water soothes muscles, such as shoulder rolls and head tilts. Avoid any stretches that require balancing and use a shower

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Apply topicals

An effective option for treating arthritis is Voltaren Arthritis Pain Gel, the first prescription-strength, overthe-counter nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory gel. It targets arthritis pain directly at the source to provide powerful relief. Unlike most other overthe-counter topicals, Voltaren Gel treats arthritis joint pain and doesn’t just mask it. Voltaren Gel treats joint pain by delivering medicine directly at the source. Apply Voltaren Gel in the morning and a total of four times per day to help relieve arthritis pain all day long. Voltaren Gel is available at CVS stores nationwide.

Fuel up

A good breakfast fuels the body with satisfying nutrients. Joints need to stay lubricated, so start with a glass of water or sip on some green tea. Opt for a breakfast that features foods that fight inflammation and boost the immune system, such as cherries, oranges, broccoli, low-fat dairy products and whole grains like oatmeal.

Get moving

Motion is like lotion for your muscles and joints, and light exercise in the morning can help reduce joint pain and kickstart the day. This could be taking a virtual yoga class or taking a walk through your neighborhood. Exercising increases blood flow, strengthens muscles and helps you maintain a healthy weight - all things that help with arthritis pain. If you’re not sure which exercises are appropriate for you, speak with your doctor. Even small amounts of movement matter, so start with just 5 or 10 minutes of exercise. “Although there is no cure for arthritis, there are things you can do to help reduce pain in your joints,” says Yu. “The morning is the optimal time to take steps that help you feel your best all day long.” (BPT) 

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O C TO B E R 10, 2021

HOME

Selecting a remodeler

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Includes FREE MOVE!

hen planning a potential home remodeling project, the list of decisions to make may feel nearly endless. Ultimately, you may find the most important decision is choosing a trustworthy team of professionals to complete the job. For example, an organization like the National Association of the Remodeling Industry provides homeowners with helpful ways to find qualified, professional remodelers and contractors. These tips can help guide you through the selection process and assist you in making an informed decision that best suits your needs.

Look local

Local remodelers have a vested interest to perform quality work that satisfies their customers in order for their business to survive. That’s why wordof-mouth referrals can be especially helpful in finding options near you. Ask relatives, friends, neighbors and business colleagues who live nearby about projects they’ve completed and the professionals they’ve used. Other resources may include people you know in the local home industry, such as lenders, real estate agents and material suppliers. Check for licenses, insurance Many states, but not all, require contractors to be licensed, bonded and insured. Contact your state or local licensing agencies to ensure the contractor you’re considering meets all requirements. Most states require a contractor to carry worker’s compensation, property damage and personal liability

insurance. Ask for copies of their licenses and insurance to make sure it is current.

Check for violations and complaints

Check with your Consumer Affairs Office and your local chapter of the Better Business Bureau to ensure there are no complaints on record for the contractors you’re considering. You can also search for reviews online and verify they are members of reputable trade organizations that promote professional excellence, such as NARI.

Compare apples with apples

If you solicit estimates from more than one contractor, be sure they are working off the same scope and quality of work. Discuss variations in prices and beware of any estimate that is substantially lower than the others.

Be informed

A good remodeling professional educates clients on green remodeling, universal design, lead safety, new products, building techniques and trends. Make sure you’re hiring someone who has knowledge and expertise relevant to the remodeling industry, as well as the appropriate certifications and experience to complete the job.

Check references

Don’t rely on a contractor’s personality or demeanor. If a professional does not offer references, ask for them and follow up with a site visit or phone call. Find a qualified and reputable remodeler in your area at Remodeling DoneRight.com. (Family Features) 

O C TO B E R 10, 2021

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 1 7

GARDENING

What’s going on with all these mosquito bites? regularly or protect, consider trying mosquito dunks or mosquito bits (Bacillus thuringiensis). These are an easy-to-use, safe, organic, nontoxic, biological control easily found at home supply stores, garden centers and online.

By Jane Gates Signal Staff Writer

ast week while gardening I had the disturbing opportunity to experience a relatively new invader, the Asian tiger mosquito. These mosquitoes bite multiple times and can create bruising, excessively itchy welts. Since then, I’ve heard a remarkable number of people complaining about their family members dealing with intensely aggressive mosquito bites — in Santa Clarita where we have historically been relatively free from mosquitoes and other aggressive bloodsuckers. So, what’s going on? In only 15 years this mosquito has spread over much of the country. Last year only four counties in Los Angeles reported the Aedes albopictus. Now L.A. vector control reports that virtually all counties have recorded sightings. Unfortunately, these small ankle-biters are thriving in the warming microclimates of California faster than most other states. This is what I’ve learned. These small black and white striped mosquitoes evolved as a tropical species. But with the combination of a rapidly warming climate in California and ever increasing human travel, they found themselves plenty of room to expand (and a limitless population to dine on) by hitching a ride across ocean waters with travelers and commercial shipments. As a result they have bred in greater numbers than our less aggressive native mosquito. So the question is, what can we do about it? Authorities know what is going on, but they don’t have the manpower or budget to counter the mosquito’s fast expansion without our help. Despite all the disagreements in the world right now, this is an enemy all of us can unite to battle. It is one that could soon present a serious threat to every person — even our pets! Each of us can start by making sure we are not contributing to the spread of this mosquito. Regularly check that

Deterrents

the area around your home does not harbor any standing water — from sprinklers, hoses, water features or anything else. The Aedes albopictus will breed in tiny containers as small as a thimble and you may be breeding them in your garden in caps, toys, saucers and hundreds of other items, refilling their larval habits with your sprinklers without realizing it. This is an introduced pest that has the capacity of being a vector for an assortment of nasty diseases like Dengue fever, Zika, Chikungunya and more! However, so far, there have been NO infections confirmed. (This mosquito does NOT carry Covid.) But before dangerous diseases start cropping up — which could easily happen as the world reactivates busy travel again — we can make a difference. We need to just tour our outdoor spaces and take a moment daily (or every few days) to remove any standing water on our property.

Standing water

Dump or change out any water in containers every couple of days if you cannot do without those water sources. Mosquito nymphs/larvae need to hatch and develop in water before they become adults. Keep pools clean. Turn saucers, bowls and toys upside down so irrigation system water does not collect. And spread the advice to everyone you meet! For containers that need to stay full — like a fountain, bird bath, pond or anything else, consider ways to interrupt the breeding cycle. Mosquitoes will not lay eggs in water that is in motion. Add a waterfall. Covering containers to forbid entry of egg-laying females denies them a breeding place. Fish in ponds will eat the mosquito eggs and nymphs. And for any standing water that you cannot change

Look for mosquito zappers with mosquito-attracting bait or spray larger areas. Opt for biological or organic products for spraying whenever possible. Chemical insecticides can injure pollinators. Spraying late in the day is best with chemicals and even organics. Avoid delicate flowers and their pollinators. The invasion of the Aedes albopictus is not going unnoticed by governments, researchers and scientists. New discoveries are being regularly tested to find better attractants, growth inhibitors, and synthetic hormones intended to keep immature mosquitoes from becoming adults. There are also programs studying ge-

netics and sterilization. But while the experts work at finding mass solutions to this very uncomfortable predator, we can help keep populations down and provide protection for ourselves, families and neighbors. And we might even help stop this from turning into another potential epidemic or pandemic.

Curbing infestations

So let’s not wait! It’s easy. We can curb this now by just tipping out this mosquito’s watery breeding grounds in our own backyards. This is a perfect enemy on which we can focus our frustrations and anger about whatever we’re unhappy with in our lives or the world at large! So spread the word on your social media. Join the grassroots army of all people here in Santa Clarita. Let’s get together and defeat the Aedes mosquitoes BEFORE they get the upper hand, er, ankle, leg, wing? Whatever! Will YOU check your property and spread the word? 

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THINGSTODO

OCTOBER

Continued from page 4

Explore the past Through Oct. 24 Northern California Renaissance Faire Weekends 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Casa De Fruta 10031 Pacheco Pass Highway, Hollister Info www.norcalrenfaire.com If you can’t wait until April for your annual Renaissance Faire fix in Southern California, you can travel back in time to a thriving Renaissance village under the rule of Queen Elizabeth I in Hollister. This 21-acre wonderland offers live music, themed celebrations, hearty food and a thriving marketplace of unique hand-crafted goods. New this year ois the Rose & Thorne Conspiracies game of intrigue and mysteries where you hunt for a treasure for the Queen and country. General admission tickets are $40 and are only available to purchase online. Children 12 and under are free. 

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O C TO B E R 10, 2021

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 1 9

Protecting you and your dogs from rabies

round the world every year, an estimated 59,000 people die from rabies following a bite or scratch from an infected dog, according to the World Health Organization; almost half of them children under 15 years old. With preventive steps, including vaccination, you can protect your human and canine family members. In large areas of the world, rabies continues to be a serious health issue. Of the estimated 900 million dogs around the world, the majority (7585%) are not household pets. In the countries where rabies is a continued threat and outbreaks continue, both owned and stray dogs may be at risk if they are not receiving rabies vaccinations.

Know about rabies

Rabies is a viral disease that can be passed from animals to humans. It causes fatal inflammation of the brain and spinal cord, not only in wild an-

imals but also domestic animals and humans. The rabies virus is transmitted through the saliva of an infected animal, usually through a bite or scratch. In up to 99% of cases, domestic dogs are responsible for human rabies infections. The time it takes to show symptoms of rabies depends on the distance the virus has to travel from the bite site to the brain. If someone gets bitten on a toe, it could take weeks or even months to show symptoms, but if bitten on the face, he or she could become rabid in just a few days.

is administered by a veterinarian in either one-year or three-year doses.

Get prompt medical attention

With symptoms its 100% fatal Once symptoms are present, the disease is 100% fatal. Symptoms include anxiety, confusion, partial paralysis, agitation, aggression, hypersalivation, difficulty swallowing, fear of water and, eventually, paralysis, coma and death.

Get your dogs vaccinated

Use caution when you are around unfamiliar dogs that may carry the disease.

Through vaccination of dogs, rabies is 100% preventable. You can do your

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If someone has been bitten or scratched by a suspected rabid dog and may have been exposed to rabies, a vaccination can be part of the treatment. However, it’s important to immediately wash the wound for 15 minutes with soap and running water. This can help remove and inactivate any virus which may have been inoculated. The post-exposure vaccination course will depend on your prior vaccination history, so you’ll need to consult your doctor or visit the emergency room for immediate medical care. Find more information about preventing and eliminating rabies at afya. org and help raise awareness by using #ForThemForUs and sharing photos and videos of rabies prevention and elimination efforts on social media. (Family Features) 

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O C TO B E R 10, 2021

AUTOMOTIVE

How you can capitalize on the used-car boom

sed cars have become much more popular thanks to the affordability and reliability of certified-preowned vehicles. According to the financial resource Dave Ramsey, a brand-new car loses somewhere between 9 and 11% of its value the moment it is driven off of the lot. That’s like throwing away $3,000 on a $30,000 vehicle in an instant. The car research resource The Car Connection says there are more than 250 million used cars on the road in the United States, and every year roughly 40 million people sell and buy used cars compared to the 14 million new vehicles. People who are considering selling a vehicle to capitalize on the used-car boom can follow these guidelines to sell quickly.

Prepare the vehicle

It’s hard not to judge a book by its cover. The same can be said for the way prospective buyers will view a

is priced at or slightly below other similar cars or trucks will sell more quickly.

Gather your documents

Put together a folder of receipts, maintenance schedules and any other paperwork that has been gathered through the years. Paperwork also should include the vehicle title and original sales paperwork. This will indicate to potential buyers that the car has been diligently maintained and that the previous owner was organized.

Make repairs

Depending on how much a person is willing to spend or concede in price negotiations, repair the vehicle accordingly. Types of repairs can include replacing burned out lights, fixing chips and cracks, replacing or repairing tires, repairing dings and scratches, and checking and replacing brakes.

Preparing your vehile by cleaning it, making simple repaires and then pricing it correctly can help you sell your car more quickly.

car or truck, particularly if it is dirty. Cleaning the interior and exterior and removing any items from the trunk, cargo bed, glove compartment, and any other storage areas will

give a positive impression. The level of cleanliness will give buyers the impression that the vehicle has been well-maintained.

Price it correctly

Use trusted resources to appraise the value of the vehicle being sold. Kelley Blue Book is an industry standard for determining the value of a vehicle for sale. A vehicle that

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Major automobile listing sites are a good place to start, as are newspaper classifieds and local social media sales marketplaces. Include plenty of well-lit pictures of the interior and exterior, and include detailed information on the vehicle, including any special features. This will generate interest from serious buyers. Taking certain steps to sell a used vehicle can make the process go quickly and smoothly. (MC) 

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O C TO B E R 10, 2021

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 2 1

K I D S & FA M I LY

Donna’s Day: Creative Family Fun

Summer still lingers in the backyard garden By Donna Erickson Signal Contributing Writer

purple petunia here, a rosemary sprig there and even arugula! My old college roomie, Becky, brought a wonderfully fragrant, wispy centerpiece to our house last week as an add-on to an impromptu Saturday-night family supper. Designed with lingering stems, herbs and blossoms from her backyard garden, it was arranged informally in a glass jar. So enchanting and simple. And perfect for a family activity you can enjoy this week. Even if your backyard or potted deck plants look droopy and lost to the season, poke around and you’ll uncover some lovely finds lurking under leaves and between tired summer growth. Plus, it’s a great way to give your kids a chance to explore and notice what’s going on in nature. Think of your discoveries as the

“potpourri” of your garden. Becky’s picks were arranged in a charming, recycled 4-inch-tall and 6-inch-wide glass jar. Hearty dusty miller was placed at the base going out in all directions and became the support, like a flower frog. Along with your kids, look for plants with similar strong stems, and then build a centerpiece using what you have with an eye to plants that are fragrant and will last a while. The final gems that will have staying power, even when the water has evaporated from your vase, include lavender, hydrangea, eucalyptus, sedum, roses, pods and herbs. Trim off the leaves from the base of the stems before you begin arranging them in a jar or vase. As you put each one in the water, play “name that plant or flower,” and have your child repeat what you say. It’s especially fun when the name rolls off your tongues nicely, like colorful and lovely “ranunculus.”

Hearty garden gems arranged in a fall centerpieces.

Place on a pretty cloth runner at the center of your dinner table. You might also toss a handful of acorns you’ve collected on fall walks here

and there. If you are having friends over for supper, add a colorful flat leaf on each plate with a name written on top with a marker for a personal welcome to the table. Everyone will appreciate the simple gathering to celebrate fall’s beauty, tasty food, and friends and family. Donna Erickson’s award-winning series “Donna’s Day” is airing on public television nationwide. To find more of her creative family recipes and activities, visit www.donnasday.com and link to the Donna’s Day Facebook fan page. Her latest book is “Donna Erickson’s Fabulous Funstuff for Families.”  © 2020 Donna Erickson Distributed by King Features Synd.

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SOLUTIONS

PUZZLES

O C TO B E R 10, 2021

CROSSWORD TIME

O C TO B E R 10, 2021

Opinion

S U N D AY S I G N A L · 2 3

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

READERLETTERS

Horton’s High Horse Well, Gary Horton was back on his high horse (Aug. 18) preaching — pontificating, rather — truth and righteousness to all of the ignorant and selfish masses of the Santa Clarita Valley. I honestly don’t know why Horton did not become a televangelist. He definitely has the right stuff for such a career. From reading Horton’s monotonous monologues I would say that his horse must be a good 10 stories tall – just imagine him falling off of it. I think it would hurt a lot. But more to Horton’s attempts at putting us “selfish” people on a collective guilt trip, I have my own words of truth and righteousness. First of all, Mr. Horton, I am not my brother’s keeper. I wasn’t born for that purpose, it’s not in my job description, and, quite frankly, I’m not interested in the part – I let people like you do it, so knock yourself out. Furthermore, I feel no sense of shame or guilt in making such a declaration – in fact, I’m proud of it. The way I see it, people should be their own keepers. Secondly, nobody has a moral duty to anyone. That’s just more of the televangelist in you coming out. Your sick friend may be one person who has regrets, but there are many who got the virus, got the sickness bad, and yet, while being interviewed by CNN, said that they did not regret it, and would not change a thing if given the opportunity. There was this guy back in the old days, back in the late 1700s, a guy by the name of Patrick Henry. He was railing against the tyranny of the British Crown at the Second Virginia Convention. Well, I think he made his position quite clear. Not only was he willing to die for his principles, but also he was encouraging his “brothers” to do the same. If our Founding Fathers had the same mentality as Gary Horton, we would all still be bowing to the British Crown. Arthur Saginian Santa Clarita

Save Our National Parks, Follow the Rules People are flocking to the national parks in spite of the recent pandemic. In doing so, these people are putting our national parks in jeopardy of becoming extinct. There are not enough employees to support the parks with the overflow visitations. The Biden administration has launched its “America the Beautiful” plan in an effort to protect the national parks. We all depend on the lands, waters and wildlife for our own preservation. The Biden administration’s “America the Beautiful” plan will expand the national parks to increase public access and ensure that lands within the parks are not at risk of incompatible development. If these suggestions and this agenda of trying to protect our national parks are not taken, it could harm scenic views, water quality and wildlife habitat. If the proper steps are not taken, the future generations will miss out on one of America's most precious treasures. So, let's chip in to protect these wondrous national parks and abide by the rules and regulations. Lois Eisenberg Santa Clarita Submit a Letter to the Editor

Include name, address & phone; Anonymous letters aren’t printed; email: letters@ signalscv.com. Mail to: Letters to the Editor, The Signal, 25060 Avenue Stanford, Suite 141, Santa Clarita, CA 91355.

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

Clever Isn’t Always Useful By David Hegg

ometimes things we hear all the time can slowly creep into our belief system as though they were true. But, as a general rule, most general rules generalize truth to the place where they are untrustworthy. They may be clever, but that doesn’t make them useful. Here’s an example. We’ve all been told, “Just let conscience be your guide.” And while this may have some general benefit, in most cases we should never let our consciences be our guides. The conscience is really just your own morality alarm clock. It goes off when you are about to cross over some line. But the problem is, like your alarm, you get to set your conscience, or at least feed it the information that informs it as to what is right and wrong. You train your conscience according to your own beliefs, and then you expect it to tell you when you’re about to color outside the lines. When you’re sleeping and your alarm goes off, you have a choice. You can get up or hit the snooze button and drift off for seven more glorious minutes. The conscience acts similarly. When it starts poking you with some conviction, you can reprogram it through rationalization and continue down your chosen path. But here’s the problem. As you reprogram your conscience it becomes less and less your guardian and more and more your advocate. As you change the information used to program it, you adapt its warnings to fit your lifestyle. We call this a seared conscience. It is no longer sensitive to wrong. Now it isn’t your guide but your cheerleader that encourages you to do things once considered out of bounds. In this state, letting your conscience be your guide is like letting a con man handle your investments. You are getting taken for a ride with your eyes open on a street with no guardrails.

Another popular aphorism is, “They won’t care what you know until they know how much you care.” In certain situations, this is so true, as in my world of preaching. People want to know I care about them and certainly caring for people is essential in pastoral ministry. But in most cases, we ought to care more about whether the person teaching us cares for the truth more than us. In some respects, it is both foolish and selfish to restrict what I might learn from someone else on the basis of whether I feel loved. If I end up in the emergency room with a serious injury or illness, frankly I don’t care if the attending physician cares about me as a person. What I do hope is that he cares about being a good doctor. It would be nice if he were nice, but I’ll take a crabby, aloof, isolated and insolated expert in saving my life anytime. Of course, in both these cases there is enough truth in the clichés to help us, if we think about them correctly. If we instruct our consciences with something other than personal needs and wants, then it can be a helpful guide. I fill mine with biblical beliefs and try to keep it honed by not going against it or hitting the snooze button. And as for the connection between caring and learning, it is always best if relationship accompanies instruction. But while that is the goal, I hope you’ll recognize the need sometimes to learn from those you’ll never meet, never know, or never go to lunch with. Clichés are nice, but they should never be a replacement for virtues, values, or carefully considered ethical standards. They usually are clever, but not comprehensive enough to trust. And you can take that to the bank. Local resident David Hegg is senior pastor of Grace Baptist Church. “Ethically Speaking” appears Sundays. 

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