Sunday Signal 012824

Valencia | Saugus | Newhall | Canyon Country | Stevenson Ranch | Westridge | Castaic | FivePoint Valencia

JANUARY 28, 2024

Special Section Inside Your News, Entertainment & Lifestyle Source

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RENEW YOU FOR 2024

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A LOOK AT THE OSCAR NOMINATIONS

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WHEN TO START A GARAGE RENOVATION

PLUS : CITY NEWS | OPINION | HOME | ENTERTAINMENT | SENIORS | HEALTH & FITNESS

A beauty to the bold.

It’s never looked better, offered more, or felt more incredible to drive: Here is the 2024 Mercedes-AMG GLE

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Drive the 2024 Mercedes-AMG EQE, an all-electric sedan with a thirst for power.

J A N UA RY 28, 2024

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 3

TABLE OF CONTENTS

NEWS FEATURES

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CITY MANAGER

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FOOD

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ENTERTAINMENT

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HOME

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GARDENING

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HEALTH AND FITNESS PUZZLES OPINION

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4 Renew You for 2024 5 Maintaining Your Commitment to Exercise 6 Your SCV Senior Center 7 Reserve a Night or Day of Romance 8 Skyline Ranch Park: The Newest Park in Santa Clarita!

9 Speedy, Nutritious Whole Grains Sweet Chili Shrimp with Quinoa Whole Grain Sesame Chicken Stir Fry 10 Oscar Nods Reflect a Strong Year of Moviemaking 11 Factors to Consider With a Garage Remodel Garage Safety Tips 12 Creating More Privacy for Your Backyard

David Hegg SPORTS

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J A N UA RY 28, 2024

N E W S F E AT U R E

By Michele E. Buttelman Signal Staff Writer

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t’s a new year and you’ve probably broken every resolution you made on New Year’s Eve. Don’t worry, you are in good company.

Statistics show that roughly a third of the population in the United States make resolutions for the new year.

Research also suggests that only 9% of Americans that make resolutions complete them, nearly 23% of people quit their resolution by the end of the first week and 43% quit by the end of January.

Most resolutions revolve around health and wellness followed by learning new hobbies or other self-improvement activities.

Emerging from the constraints of the recent pandemic many people wish to get out more and explore.

It’s not too late to get back on track and renew you in 2024.

Healthy You

You might have a goal to run your first marathon or climb Mt. Shasta. However, it’s important to take this kind of goal one step at a time, literally.

Walking is great exercise and extremely beneficial to overall health and wellness.

An article published March 2020 in the Journal of the American Medical Association, found that the more steps participants over age 40 took, the lower their mortality risk from all causes.

Taking into account factors such as the subjects’ health status, researchers discovered a 51% lower mortality risk for those who took 8,000 steps a day, compared with those who took 4,000. And the more the subjects walked, the greater the benefit.

Increasing a stroll to 12,000 steps a day was linked to a 65 percent lower risk of death.

I have many friends who enjoy daily walks alone.

They call it their “me time.” I prefer walking, and talking, with others.

The Walking Club at the Newhall Community Center meets weekly on Thursdays from 8:30 - to 9:30 a.m. for a weekly stroll around Old Town

You … for

2024

Newhall, weather permitting. Socialize with your neighbors and get energized for your day.

The walk starts at Newhall Community Center, 22421 Market St., strolling by Hart Park and Main Street and then walking to Old Town Newhall Library before returning to community center.

Participants will receive a tour of the Newhall Community Center and Old Town Newhall Branch during this guided walk. Learn more about both city facilities and the resources and classes available to you.

Wear comfortable shoes and clothes. No registration required. For information email fkafai@santaclarita.com.

Self-Care

Self-care is the latest popular buzz word for the practice of taking an active role in protecting one’s own well-being and happiness. There are many forms of self-care, both mental and physical.

One of the most beneficial practices of self-care is finding the right massage therapist and scheduling regular massage sessions.

Massage prompts the release of endorphins, the brain chemicals that produce feelings of wellbeing.

Levels of stress hormones, such as adrenalin, cortisol and norepinephrine, are also reduced. In addition, massage encourages healthy blood flow and drainage of the lymphatic system which improves circulation, decreases muscle stiffness and joint inflammation, offers improved flexibility and results in better quality of sleep and strengthened immune response.

It may take visits to several therapists to find the right body worker for you.

Meditation is another self-care practice gaining in popularity. The benefits of meditation included reduced stress and anxiety, increased productivity and better breathing, all of which increases quality of life.

There are many types of meditation practices and numerous websites and phone apps that can guide you on your meditation journey.

Get Creative

If you are interested in making friends while

being creative, consider joining the Sit and Stitch group at the Canyon Country Jo Anne Darcy Branch of the Santa Clarita Public Library, 18601 Soledad Canyon Road 91351, on the second and fourth Saturdays of the month from 10 a.m. to noon.

Meet in the community room to work on any portable project while un-winding with other crafters, bring your own supplies and enjoy a morning of stitching.

Participants are also invited to create a blanket to donate to Project Linus. Project Linus’ mission is to provide love, a sense of security, warmth and comfort to children who are seriously ill, traumatized, or otherwise in need through the gifts of new handmade blankets and afghans, lovingly created by volunteer “blanketeers.”

Explore other classes and book clubs available at the Santa Clarita Public Library branches in Canyon Country, Old Town Newhall and Valencia at www.santaclaritalibrary.com.

Volunteer

Giving back to your community or giving to others, offers tangible health benefits including improved self-esteem, a way to make new friends and increased feelings of self-worth.

A great way to connect to volunteer opportunities in the Santa Clarita Valley is to visit the city’s volunteer engagement website santaclarita volunteers.com.

If you have a particular interest, like helping seniors, children or pets search out organizations like the SCV Senior Center, the Boys & Girls Club of SCV or the Castaic Animal Care Center for volunteer opportunities.

A New You

My favorite motivational say is: “Success is getting up one more time than you fall down.” It may take several tries before you are able to change old habits and see results in your quest to “renew you.”

In the words of Chinese philosopher Lao Tzu, “A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.” 

J A N UA RY 28, 2024

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 5

N E W S F E AT U R E

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Maintaining Your Commitment to Exercise

t one point or another, millions of adults across the globe have resolved to be more physically active. The benefits of routine exercise are too numerous to cite, but some of the more notable ones include a lower risk for chronic disease and illness, improved self-esteem and greater overall health.

With so much to gain from routine exercise, it’s no wonder so many people aspire to be more physically active. But it’s easy to lose motivation when aspiring to exercise more.

Each year, one of the most popular New Year’s

Identify what progress looks like.

resolutions is to exercise more. In fact, Statista conducted a survey regarding New Year’s resolutions for 2023 and found that exercising more was the most popular resolution.

However, a 2021 study published in the International Journal of Environment Research and Public Health found that 64% of people abandon their New Year’s resolutions within a month of making them. Exercising more requires commitment, and there are some ways to make it a little easier to maintain that commitment over the long haul.

Break it up The Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health notes that people don’t need to exercise all at once to reap the rewards of physical activity. If time is tight, break up a workout over the course of your day. Some strength-training exercises in the morning can be followed up with a brisk walk or run over a lunch break. This approach makes it easier to fit a full workout into your daily routine.

Employ the buddy system The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention suggests that working out with a partner increases exercise motivation and encourages individuals to be more consistent with their exercise routine so they do not let their partners down.

The authors behind a 2019 study published in the International Journal of Research in Exercise Physiology suggested the efficacy of the buddy system may require further study before researchers can definitively say it’s an effective motivation strategy for people

who want to exercise more.

But there’s no denying that many individuals feel that they are more likely to exercise with a friend than they are if they go solo.

Schedule exercise time Busy professionals book work meetings, family obligations and other daily tasks in their schedules, and the T.H. Chan School of Public Health recommends doing the same with exercise. Allotting time to exercise each day may decrease the likelihood that you’ll skip a workout, and once results start to manifest you may be more motivated to stay the course.

Identify what progress may look like It’s easy to become discouraged if a commitment to routine exercise does not produce visible results. But just because your abs are not becoming chiseled a month into a workout routine or the scale is not reflecting significant weight loss does not mean your routine is not working.

As the human body ages, it becomes more difficult to transform it. So a workout routine that left you looking lean and chiseled in your twenties may not produce the same body in your forties.

But that does not mean the exercise isn’t working and ultimately helping you get healthier. Adults are urged to speak with their physicians and identify what progress with a workout routine might look like for someone their age.

Progress may look different than it did years ago, but if the end result is a healthier you, then that should be all the motivation you need to keep going.

It’s no secret that making a commitment to routine exercise can be difficult. But various strategies can increase the likelihood that individuals will stay the course as they seek to exercise more frequently. (MC) 

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J A N UA RY 28, 2024

N E W S F E AT U R E

Your SCV Senior Center

By Michele E. Buttelman Signal Staff Writer

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he “new” Santa Clarita Valley Senior Center Bella Vida will celebrate its fifth anniversary in April.

The center, which serves more than 15,000 SCV seniors annually offers a range of amenities and services all designed to help seniors with the challenges of aging “in place.”

The ‘New’ Senior Center

The SCV Senior Center (27180 Golden Valley Road 91350) was dedicated on April 24, 2019 and christened “Bella Vida,” which means “beautiful life,” said Chief Executive Officer Kevin MacDonald, The 30,000-square-foot, two-story building sits on 2.5 acres and includes features such as a banquet hall that seats more than 250, a fitness and dance studio, an outdoor cabana with concert seating, six multipurpose rooms and a library. The center is open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

The new SCV Center replaced the cramped quarters of the previous center located on Market Street in Newhall.

“The new building gives us an opportunity to do so many things we couldn’t do before,” said MacDonald. “The center also has great food and wonderful staff and volunteers.”

MacDonald said the center now offers more than 30 different programs, many more than could be offered in the old space.

“We’ve also started a monthly concert series, it is booked up within days,” he said. “The Health and Wellness lectures also fill up every week.”

To see a full schedule of classes and other programs visit myscvcoa.org/calendar.

Nutrition Program

The SCV Senior Center is now part of the national Meals on Wheels America organization which provides meals to home-bound seniors.as well as a daily congregate lunch offered at the center.

MacDonald said in the SCV the nutrition program prepares approximately 2,000 meals a day.

“Meals on Wheels delivers approximately 550 meals a day for our SCV seniors,” said MacDonald.

“It has been quite a challenge, but our staff and vol-

Tai Chi class. PHOTO BY DAN WATSON / THE SIGNAL

unteers have met the challenge. We have about 110 volunteer drivers and they are fantastic. The deliver the meals and meet with the seniors every day. It is wonderful.”

MacDonald said volunteers are always needed.

“We always welcome new volunteers to come on board,” he said. To volunteer, visit myscvcoa.org/ volunteers-3/opportunities.

Supportive Services

MacDonald said the expanded center has allowed the new center to offer “wraparound services” “In addition to the wonderful nutrition program we have more social workers, we call them care managers, reaching out to thousands of seniors in the SCV and that program continues to expand,” he said. “We also have more support groups and those are overflowing with people who need to talk to someone. Those programs are all free through our Supportive Services Department.”

Low and no cost programs include congregate and home delivered meals, care management, adult day program, support groups and counseling, lifelong learning and education, exercise and wellness classes, trips & tours, housing information & home modification services, and transportation services.

Director of Support Services SuzAnn Nelsen said rising prices and lack of affordable housing can create a crisis situation for many seniors.

“People walk in here every day who are in crisis,” she said. “The need for these services keeps growing.” The Support Services Department works to link seniors with available resources.

“Cost of food is so high these days,” Nelsen said.

“We have a little food pantry that will assist people in immediate need.”

The center also offers a Handyworker Program that helps seniors modify their home so they can remain safe.

Health and Wellness

A wide variety of classes and lectures are available to SCV seniors. Registration and sign up is required. Among the programs: Sit & Be Fit Chair Exercises, Yoga, Chair Pilates & Stretch, Tai Chi, Pickleball, Zumba Gold and lectures on mental health, arthritis, diabetes and more. Health clinics which can include blood pressure checks as well as flu and Covid vaccinations are also held.

The SCV Senior Center also offers a Fitness Center which offers a variety of equipment so seniors may maintain strength and cardiovascular fitness.

Four one-hour time slots are available, Monday-Friday.

A new user orientation is required before using the Fitness Center. For information contact the Front Desk at (661) 259-9444.

The social aspect of the SCV Center is also important for healthy aging. Among the many fun activities are Bingo, Billiards, Canasta, Line Dancing and more.

Exercise class. PHOTO BY DAN WATSON / THE SIGNAL

Fun times. SIGNAL FILE PHOTO

Community Support

MacDonald said the Senior Center could not do what it does without the help of the County of Los Angeles and City of Santa Clarita.

“Their help has been fantastic,” he said. “The local community also is amazing. It is like a trifecta of county, city and community working together to help the senior community in the SCV. We are very fortunate to have that trifecta.”

The annual Celebrity Waiter Dinner will be held Saturday, April 27 in the outdoor courtyard at Bella Vida. It is “our main community fundraiser for the year,” MacDonald said. “We also just finished our annual appeal campaign, which was very successful.”

Visit Bella Vida

MacDonald wants to invite seniors who have been hesitant to visit the new SCV Senior Center to “give us a chance.”

“You will walk in the door and be greeted by a group of friends who want to meet you,” he said.

“It is like a country club for seniors, not a traditional senior center, that is why we call it Bella Vida, which means ‘beautiful life’ which is what we intend to give everyone who walks through the doors. We try to serve the needs of seniors the best we can.”

For more information visit myscvcoa.org. 

J A N UA RY 28, 2024

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 7

Night — or Day — of Romance

N E W S F E AT U R E

RESERVE A

By Michele E. Buttelman Signal Staff Writer

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Newhall Press Room Valentines Dinner

he season of hearts, flowers and love is almost here.

What will you do this year in the Santa Clarita Valley to celebrate Valentine’s Day?

The Big I Do

The city of Santa Clarita has the perfect party planned for those seeking to “tie the knot” on Valentine’s Day, or those thinking of renewing their vows.

The second The Big I Do wedding ceremony at City Hall will be hosted

by City Hall Ceremonies on Wednesday, Feb. 14, Valentine’s Day. “We had so much fun as a group putting on this event last year, we are very excited to be able to do it again this year,” said City Clerk Mary Cusick.

City Hall Ceremonies holds weddings every Wednesday.

“It is the best day of my work week,” said Cusick. “Every couple is different, some come dressed to the nines, others come in flipflops, some couples cry during the ceremony and I cry with them, or they laugh. I am just grateful to be part of it.”

Couples who participate in this this year’s Valentines Day event will have the opportunity to receive special gifts and participate in drawings courtesy of community sponsors.

This unique wedding experience will have multiple couples getting married at the same time, followed by a lavish wedding reception. Brides will walk down the aisle and can be given away by someone if they wish.

Couples will enjoy a bride’s room to finish getting ready, catered brunch, beautiful décor, floral arrangements, wedding cakes, a DJ, photographer, photo booths and dancing.

Jill’s Cake Creations will furnish the wedding cakes for couples to cut.

Registered couples have a chance to win custom wedding bands, a bridal headpiece and a seven-night Princess Cruise.

One lucky couple will be the honeymoon cruise presented by Princess Cruises, valued at $3,000.

To qualify for the cruise, couples must be registered for The Big I Do

by Jan. 31 and exchange vows at the event on Valentine’s Day, Feb. 14.

Entrants will share their love story through a one-minute video on the city’s website, (deadline 5 p.m.

Wednesday, Jan. 31.) Voting on the videos will be held Feb. 5-12 with the winner announced at the wedding reception on Feb. 14.

Community vendors who have donated to The Big I Do event include: 24/7 Events, 3Thirtythree Events, Agua Dulce Winery, Animal Tracks, AV Party Rental, Bloomies Florist, Bubbly Balloons Studio, Card My Yard, City of Santa Clarita Concerts in the Park, Classic Designs Jewelry, Egg Plantation, Glaudi Collection, GoTribe Fitness, Jill’s Cake Creations.

Lovelyou, Lucky Luke Brewing, Lucy’s Bridal Couture, Mason James Designs, MB2 Entertainment, Miner’s Lens, Newhall Refinery, Piccola Trattoria, Princess Cruises, Rosie’s Design Events, Silvertunes Entertainment and Via Promotionals.

Every couple will receive a gift bag, Cusick said. Gift bags will include a variety of items including restaurant gift cards.

“We are so fortunate to have these generous businesses in Santa Clarita that want to be part of this event,” Cusick said.

Couples will pay $380 for The Big I Do. Guests to the luncheon are

$80 each.

To register visit SantaClarita.gov/ Weddings or call (661) 286-4073.

Le Chene French Cuisine

An Evening of Enchantment and Magic!

The area’s most romantic restaurant, Le Chene French Cuisine (12625 Sierra Highway 91390) will present a special Valentine’s weekend event “An Evening of Enchantment and Magic!” hosted by Sharpo (close-up magic performer at the world-famous Magic Castle) and guest star magician James Lantiegne on Saturday, Feb. 10.

Cocktails and registration are at 6:30 p.m., with the dinner/show 7-10 p.m. $160 per person, all inclusive, includes tax and tip, prepaid in advance, payment is non-refundable.

Tables seat 10 guests, so bring your friends. For reservations, visit lechene.com or call (661) 251-4315.

Romantic Dinner If you prefer a romantic dinner without the show on Valentine’s Day, Le Chene offers a special Valentine’s Day Dinner in the dining room. The menu crafted just for Valentine’s Day will include a choice from 10 appetizers, nine entrees and six deserts. All items priced ala carte.

Reservations are required. Make a reservation at lechene.com/ event/2024-valentines-day-dinner-atle-chene or call (661) 251-4315.

Enjoy a romantic 4-course meal prepared by Chef Sabina and the team at Newhall Press Room (242547 Main St., Newhall 91321).

A $20 per person non-refundable deposit is required to make your reservation. This guarantees your table and includes a four-course meal and one drink ticket per person. Multiple reservation times available. There is a two-hour time limit per reservation.

Cost is $155 for two.

The Newhall Press Room has an extensive award-winning wine list and offers shareable food and “an unforgettable one-of-a-kind experience.”

Make a reservation at www. newhallpressroom.com/events/ valentines-day-dinner-2024/ticketform or call (661) 753-3454.

Singing Valentines

Say “I Love You” with a serenade and a flower and leave your sweetheart speechless. Nothing says you care like a Singing Valentine from the Harmony Hills Chorus.

For decades the Men of Harmony, now the Harmony Hills Chorus, has delighted residents of the SCV with their signature Singing Valentine’s fundraising event.

Choose from three options: In Person On Valentines Day Wednesday, Feb. 14 On a quartet will deliver your Singing Valentine anywhere in the SCV area between the hours of 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. This is a limited opportunity and delivery usually sells out. $60.

By Phone On Tuesday evening Feb. 13 from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. your loved one will receive a phone call and be serenaded with your message included. $30.

Serenade by Email New in 2024 a Barbershop Quartet recording for your sweetheart will be sent directly to this or her email to save and listen to again and again. $20.

To reserve your Singing Valentine visit harmonyhillschorus.org/ Valentines or call (661) 2596109. 

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J A N UA RY 28, 2024

FROM THE CITY MANAGER

Skyline Ranch Park — the Newest Park in Santa Clarita!

By Ken Striplin Santa Clarita City Manager

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arks are the main hub of engagement and activity in our communities and here in Santa Clarita our 37 parks play a pivotal role in enhancing the quality of life for our residents. Whether you and your families frequent the beloved Central Park in Saugus or visit the always popular inclusive playgrounds in Canyon Country and Valencia, we are proud to offer our residents a variety of options.

Just last year, the City opened the Tesoro Adobe Historic Park, the original home to two renowned Hollywood families in California, the Carey’s and the Clougherty’s. Full of rich Western history, this park is open year-round with free, docent-guided tours. It is a great addition to our park system, providing a place for playing, learning and even as an event venue. We have now seen dozens of weddings, celebrations and parties take place at this picturesque park. Additionally, in 2023 we opened the second inclusive playground in our community at West Creek Park located in Valencia. Surrounded by the West Creek neighborhood and next to

the elementary school, this park is enjoyed by students and families alike.

This year, we are excited to bring Skyline Ranch Park to the community. Officially marking the City’s 38th park, this location was designed with our residents in mind and offers something for everyone. For our community members who want to stay active – and competitive, there will be a fullsize basketball court with four nets allowing for more participation from adults and children and making it ready for friendly games or team practices. Right across the way are two tennis courts with four pickleball court overlays – perfect for anyone who wants to practice their swing while looking at a breathtaking view of the City.

Located in the heart of the park is a shaded playground surrounded by beautiful landscaping and tables for the perfect picnic or a great place to relax. Nestled into the side of the mountain is a large baseball field, with complete fencing, shaded seating and dugouts. This park will also offer a large multipurpose field with lighting around the perimeter and on the walking trail, as well as a new restroom building and plenty of parking.

Knowing how active our community is, I know that this park will become a popular destination for not only City programming but for events, activ-

ities, walking groups and more. With the Skyline neighborhood surrounding the park, this will be an ideal location for families to bring their children and enjoy the outdoors in a fun and safe environment.

We are excited to offer this great amenity to our community this spring. To learn more about the park and our future ribbon-cutting ceremony, please follow the City’s social media pages for updates or contact Susan Nelson at snelson@santaclarita.gov. I look forward to seeing our residents enjoy this wonderful addition to our City.

Ken Striplin is the City Manager for the City of Santa Clarita and can be reached at kstriplin@ santaclarita.gov. 

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661-471-2177 www.yeager.law

J A N UA RY 28, 2024

FOOD

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S U N D AYS I G N A L · 9

Solve Dinnertime Dilemmas with Speedy, Nutritious Whole Grains

utting dinner on the table quickly seems to be a goal more often than not, particularly in today's sped-up world. However, spending less time cooking doesn't have to mean sacrificing nutrition or taste.

To enjoy better-for-you meals in the blink of an eye, lean into versatile ingredients prepared without the hassle like Minute Brown Rice & Quinoa Cups. In just 1 minute, you can savor a blend of two 100% whole grains with the crunchiness of red quinoa and chewy texture of brown rice that total 55 grams of whole grains and provide a good source of fiber in each serving.

Packed in single-serve portions, you can eat right out of the BPA-free cup or serve the whole grains as the base of this speedy Sweet Chili Shrimp with Quinoa mixed with succulent shrimp, umami-like flavors from sweet chili sauce and the satisfying flavor and crunch of green onions and chopped peanuts. A delicious dish that's filling without the fuss, this recipe is ready in less than 5 minutes to save time without relying on takeout.

Switch up your family's stir-fry routine with this savory version of Whole Grain Sesame Chicken Stir-Fry made with rice, quinoa, vegetables, rotisserie chicken and a blend of soy sauce and sesame oil. This simple meal is perfect for those busy weeknights when you need to save time without skimping on taste.

Ready to complement the succulent chicken and sesame-infused veggies, Minute Instant Rice & Quinoa offers a blend of four whole-grain ingredients: brown rice, red rice, wild rice and quinoa. Available in four convenient, pre-portioned, two-serving bags, it cooks in just 10 minutes for light, fluffy and delicious nutty flavor for recipe versatility from breakfast to dessert so you can rely on it as a family favorite for less time cooking and more time enjoying meals and moments together.

Sweet Chili Shrimp with Quinoa

To find more quick, nutritious dinner solutions, visit MinuteRice.com.

bine shrimp and vegetables. Microwave on high 30 seconds.

Sweet Chili Shrimp with Quinoa

Stir in sweet chili sauce. Blend well.

Prep time 2 minutes Cook time 2 minutes Servings 1 1 Minute Brown Rice & Quinoa Cup 4 ounces (1/2 cup) cooked shrimp, peeled and deveined 1/2 cup frozen Asian-style mixed vegetables, thawed 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce 2 tablespoons thinly sliced green onions 1 tablespoon chopped peanuts Heat rice and quinoa cup according to package directions. In small, microwave-safe bowl, com-

Serve shrimp mixture over rice topped with green onions and peanuts.

Whole Grain Sesame Chicken Stir-Fry

Prep time 3 minutes Cook time 12 minutes Servings 3-4 1 bag Minute Instant Rice & Quinoa 1 cup vegetable broth 1 tablespoon sesame oil, divided 2 eggs, lightly beaten 1/2 cup thinly sliced red onion 2 garlic cloves, minced 2 cups rotisserie cooked chicken, shredded 2 cups frozen, Asian-style mixed vegetables, thawed 2 tablespoons soy sauce Prepare rice and quinoa according to package directions, substituting broth for water.

In medium wok or skillet over medium-high heat, heat 1/2 tablespoon sesame oil. Add eggs and, using spatula, quickly soft scramble. Continue stirring eggs until light and fluffy. Remove from pan and reserve.

Add remaining sesame oil to wok or skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; stir-fry 2 minutes.

Whole Grain Sesame Chicken Stir-Fry

Add chicken and vegetables; stir-fry 2 minutes, or until heated through. Fold in rice and quinoa, eggs and soy sauce. (Family Features) 

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J A N UA RY 28, 2024

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

Oscar Nominees Reflect a Strong Year of Moviemaking

By Richard Roeper Signal Contributing Writer

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e can’t deny it’s been a bumpy road for the world of movies in recent years, from • “The Zone of Interest” Theatre in Hollywood, with Jimmy theaters shuttering for an extendKimmel returning to host, marking ed stretch during the COVID-19 That is not a list of good films. his fourth time. pandemic, to the writers and actors That is a list of great and nearly great It’s Nomination Coverage Law that strikes, to the continued proliferaworks, covering genres from sly satwe must include the term “snubs & tion and dominance of the streaming ire to genre commentary, to showbiz giants, giving moviegoers more atbiopic, to World War II stories, to his- surprises” in any article, so let’s take a look at this year’s S&S candidates, as home choices than ever before. torical drama, to resonant films told well as some other notable developBut hope lives when we take a look primarily in a language other than ments from the nominations, which at the 10 films nominated for the English. (in typical and inexplicable Acadeatres • Santa Clarita Signal adsource@exhibitorads.com Academy Award for best picture of Christopher Nolan’s profound and my-mandated fashion) were rattled 2023: magnificent “Oppenheimer” remains p. 888.737.2812 f. 203.438.1206 5.9” • “American Fiction” the heavy favorite to win best picture, off at 5:30 a.m. from the academy’s January 28-February 1,title in the top Samuel Goldwyn Theater. (Kudos date: Sunday-Thursday, • “Anatomy of a Fall” but there’s not a single • “Barbie” that would frowned upon in the to presenters Zazie Beetz and Jack delivery date: Tuesday, January 23, 2024 at1010:36:14 AMbeCASCS_LEM0128-0201.qxp • “The Holdovers” years and decades to come. If you ha- Quaid for getting right to it without any painful banter, and for doing a • “Killers of the Flower Moon” ven’t seen some of these films, you’d wonderful job with the pronuncia• “Maestro” be doing yourself a favor by catching • “Oppenheimer” up between now and March 10, when tions of names and titles.)

• “Past Lives” the 96th annual Academy Awards It’s a Barbie world — somewhat • “Poor Things” will air live on ABC from the Dolby Box-office sensation and critical fave “Barbie” garnered eight nominations, including Greta Gerwig and Noah Baumbach for adapted screenplay, AmerTM ica Ferrera for supporting actress and Ryan Gosling for supporting actor.

Many cried “Snub!” over Gerwig not getting a directing nod and Margot 22500 Lyons Ave. info Line 310.478.3836 Robbie not making the cut for best actress — but Gerwig does become the first woman to have directed three best FREUD’S LAST SESSION C Sun: 10:10 AM picture nominees in “Lady Bird,” “LitOn the eve of the Second World War, two of the greatest minds on the twentieth century, C.S. LEWIS and SIGMUND FREUD converge tle Women” and now “Barbie.” for their own personal battle over the existence of God.

NEWHALL

Bringing the Finest in Film to the SCV!

THE BOYS IN THE BOAT C Sun: 10:10 1:10 4:10 7:10; Mon to Thu: 1:10 4:10 7:10

This inspirational true story follows a group of underdogs at the height of the Great Depression as they are thrust into the spotlight and take on elite rivals from around the world.

AMERICAN FICTION E 1:10 4:10 7:10

Jeffrey Wright stars as author Thelonious “Monk” Ellison in this smart comedy that marks acclaimed writer Cord Jefferson’s (Watchmen, Master of None, Succession) feature directorial debut, based on Percival Everett’s award-winning novel Erasure.

WONKA B Sun: 10:20 1:20 4:20 7:20; Mon to Wed: 1:20 4:20 7:20; Thu: 4:20 7:20

An origin story that explores the vivid, mythical beginnings of the imaginative young inventor before he becomes the renowned scrumdiddlyumptious Mozart of chocolate

POOR THINGS E Sun: 10:00 1:00 4:00 7:00; Mon to Thu: 1:00 4:00 7:00

Bella Baxter is a young woman brought back to life by the brilliant and unorthodox scientist Dr. Godwin Baxter. Under Baxter’s protection, Bella is eager to learn. Hungry for the worldliness she is lacking, Bella runs off with Duncan Wedderburn, a slick and debauched lawyer, on a whirlwind adventure across the continents.

THE HOLDOVERS E Sun to Tue: 1:00 7:00; Wed: 1:00 PM; Thu: 1:00 7:00

follows a curmudgeonly instructor (Paul Giamatti) at an elite New England prep school who is forced to remain on campus during Christmas break to babysit the handful of students with nowhere to go.

ANATOMY OF A FALL E Sun: 10:00 4:00; Mon to Thu: 4:00 PM

For the past year, Sandra, her husband Samuel, and their eleven-year-old son Daniel have lived a secluded life in a remote town in the French Alps. When Samuel is found dead in the snow below their chalet, police start investigating it as a murder, and Sandra becomes the main suspect.

BARBIE C 4:20 PM

To live in Barbie Land is to be a perfect being in a perfect place. Unless you have a full-on existential crisis. Or you’re a Ken.

THE TEACHERS'LOUNGE C Sun: 10:30 1:30 7:30; Mon to Thu: 1:30 7:30

Carla Nowak is a dedicated, idealistic young teacher in her first job at a German middle school. Her relaxed rapport with her seventhgrade students is put under stress when a series of thefts occur at the school, and a staff investigation leads to accusations and mistrust.

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FOR 1/28/20242/1/2024 ONLY

Making History

For the first time in history, three best picture nominees were directed by women: “Barbie,” Justine Triet’s “Anatomy of a Fall” and Celine Song’s “Past Lives.”

Anatomy of a Rise

Many awards oddsmakers (and that’s definitely a thing these days) had Robbie ahead of eventual nominees Annette Bening (“Nyad”) and Sandra Huller, the great German actress nominated for “Anatomy of a Fall.” In fact, Huller delivered TWO of the best performances of 2023, as her supporting work in “The Zone of Interest” (a best picture nominee) was a chillingly effective master class.

First in Their Class

Given Cillian Murphy’s status as

one of the most respected actors of his generation, it might come as a surprise to learn Murphy’s nomination for “Oppenheimer” is his first.

In addition to the aforementioned Sandra Huller, other first-timers, all well-deserving: • Emily Blunt (“Oppenheimer”) • Lily Gladstone (“Killers of the Flower Moon”) • Jeffrey Wright (“American Fiction”) • Da’Vine Joy Randolph (“The Holdovers”) • Sterling K. Brown (“American Fiction”) • Colman Domingo (“Rustin”) • America Ferrera (“Barbie”) • Danielle Brooks (“The Color Purple”) It’s always a kick to see the firsttime nominees on Oscar night. Win or lose, the first line of their biographies has a new and permanent addition.

Making More History

Lily Gladstone of “Killers of the Flower Moon” becomes the first Native American nominated for a best actress Oscar, and she is the odds-on choice (and my personal favorite) to win. That will surely make for one of the most memorable moments at the ceremony. (Gladstone is the fourth Indigenous person nominated for best actress after Merle Oberon [part Maori], Keisha Castle-Hughes [Maori] and Yalitza Aparicio [Mixtec and Trique]).

Unfairly Overlooked

Nominations or not, I still say various performances in “Air,” “The Killer,” “Ferrari,” “Dream Scenario,” “Saltburn,” “May December,” “Origin” and “The Iron Claw” were worthy of a nod.

Ah, but that’s the thing with Oscar nominations. It’s a competition, which means there will be happy surprises for some and deep disappointments for others. As always, though, it helps to keep a sense of balance about these things. To borrow a perspective from the world of sports, as the Buffalo Bills’ Josh Allen said on the day after a heartbreaking playoff loss: “On the bright side, we woke up this morning.”  Copyright 2024 Chicago Sun-Times

J A N UA RY 28, 2024

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 1 1

HOME

Factors to Consider When Mulling a Garage Renovation

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arages may rank below kitchens and bathrooms in the home renovation pecking order, but these unsung heroes of suburban dwellings deserve their day in the sun. It’s easy for garages to become convenient, if crowded and disorganized, storage spaces, but scores of homeowners are embracing the idea that renovated garages can serve a more functional purpose.

Prior to beginning a garage renovation, homeowners can consider a host of factors that will guide the direction of the project and ultimately produce a more functional space.

garage conversion expert to audit the space. Such a professional can assess the existing space and determine what will need to be done beyond the design of the room.

Will additional electrical outlets need to be installed? Will the room require additional ventilation? Will a new doorway need to be created to allow for easier access? These are questions a qualified expert can answer.

Some may estimate the cost as well, but it’s likely the garage expert will defer estimates regarding electric and ventilation to contractors who specialize in those areas.

Appeal Though many homeowners understandably want to ensure their homes are amenable to their own lifestyles without worrying about the effects a given project might have on resale value, it’s best that they do not completely ignore the latter variable.

A 2019 analysis from the National Association of Home Builders found that 65% of newly constructed homes included two-car garages. That suggests a traditional two-car garage remains widely appealing.

However, it’s worth noting that the NAHB analysis was conducted prior

Storage The home renovation experts at Angi estimate that the average garage remodel costs around $18,000. That’s considerably less than a home addition project, which can easily exceed six figures.

So a garage remodel might be more budget-friendly than a room addition. However, homeowners should consider what’s currently in their garages and where those items will end up if the room is repurposed.

If it’s primarily lawn care items and kids’ toys, a new shed with ample storage space might work. But if the garage currently holds more items than can reasonably fit in a shed, homeowners should determine where those items can be stored once the garage is repurposed.

Garage renovation projects can make these spaces more functional, making them worthy of consideration among homeowners who feel like they need some additional space at home. (MC) 

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to the COVID-19 pandemic, when fewer people were working from home. Now that more people work from home, some may see a garage converted into a home office space as more functional. Homeowners can speak with a local real estate agent to learn more about local buyers’ preferences before beginning a garage renovation project.

Function of the space It’s important to consider why you want to renovate the garage. Is it to build a designated

home office space? A fully outfitted home gym? A home theater? An extra bedroom? An in-laws suite? Each of these options are popular reasons to renovate a garage, and each may require a different approach during the project.

The desired function also may affect the cost, so it’s best to identify precisely what the room will be used for post-renovation.

The existing space When mulling a garage renovation, contact a local

Garage Safety Tips

hen you throw open the windows, you’ll likely be spending more time with the garage door open, too. Make access to your outdoor equipment safer with these tips to get your garage ready for the warmer months.

Organizing clutter is part of the process, but warmer weather can also serve as a reminder to make sure your garage equipment and features are secure and functioning properly.

• Check your garage door performance. Ensure doors are rolling smoothly with no hitches. If you do happen to notice any abnormalities, it’s a good time to investigate. In some cases, a little grease or a minor adjustment is all you need to get things back on track.

• Verify all outlets, lights and other electrical features are in proper operating condition and all wires are intact and free of damage or fraying.

• Ensure any poisonous materials, such as paint, garden pesticides, cleaners and automotive fluids, are safely stored out of reach of pets and children that may have increased access to the garage during warmer months.

Also check for spills or leaks of any potentially hazardous or flammable materials.

Taking time to safety-proof your garage can provide your family months of stress-free use. Find more tips for getting your garage in order at eLivingtoday.com. (Family Features) 

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• Your garage floor tends to capture grime and grit from the outdoors, especially where your car sits. Take time to thoroughly sweep and mop, but also take stock of the floor’s condition for any chips or other damage that may grow worse over time and pose a risk for tripping or other safety issues.

• Don’t forget to check your garage door sensors, too.

Warmer weather means animals and children (and their toys) are more likely to find themselves in an automated door’s path when it begins to lower. Ensure sensors are operating properly to prevent injury or property damage.

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GARDENING

How to Create More Privacy on Your Property

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n inviting backyard can serve as a welcome retreat from the hustle and bustle of daily life. After a long day at the office or an exhausting day spent transporting kids to and fro, it’s hard to resist the allure of a peaceful outdoor space in which to unwind.

Privacy is a key component of any backyard oasis. Some homes may be so remote that privacy isn’t an issue. But many suburban homeowners recognize they might need to tweak their landscapes if they hope to create a private oasis outside.

Fencing or planting?

Most homeowners looking to create more privacy on their property will have to choose between fencing and planting. Fencing provides immediate privacy because, once it’s installed, no one can see into the yard. Fencing also doesn’t require watering or other immediate upkeep, which will be necessary when planting to ensure tree roots can establish themselves.

But planting has its benefits as well. Planting for privacy is essentially creating a living fence that can grow over time and provide even more privacy as trees reach maturity. Plants also tend to be less costly than fencing.

The home renovation experts at BobVila.com estimate that fencing projects typically cost between $1,667 and $4,075. However, fencing projects can cost considerably more than $4,000, especially for homeowners with large properties they want to enclose. Large, mature trees can be expensive, though it’s unlikely they will cost as much as fencing. In addition, fencing requires more maintenance and will potentially need to be replaced, while native trees won’t require much upkeep and can last for generations.

Planting

Homeowners who choose to plant for privacy will next have to decide which type of plants to add to their properties. Evergreens provide year-round privacy because they don’t shed their leaves, so these are the ones most often chosen when creating

a living fence.

A number of varieties of evergreen trees can do the job, but it’s important that homeowners consult with a landscape architect prior to choosing trees so they can ensure the trees will thrive when faced with the growing conditions on their properties.

During such a consultation, homeowners may discuss the following popular privacy trees.

Leyland Cypress The Arbor Day Foundation¨ notes that the Leyland cypress is popular for hedges and boundaries, likely because a typical tree reaches a mature height of 60’-70’ and can spread as wide as 25’. The Leyland cypress grows fast, which may appeal to homeowners who don’t want to wait to establish privacy.

Green Giant Arborvitae There are different varieties of the arborvitae, but the Green Giant tends to be the go-to option for privacy. The ADF notes that Green Giants will grow up to three feet per year until they reach maturity, providing a fast-grow-

ing option for privacy planters. The Green Giant can spread as wide as 20 feet at maturity, which is another attribute that makes it so popular among homeowners desiring privacy.

Eastern White Pine The ADF notes that the eastern white pine, which can reach heights as high as 80 feet, is favored in spacious yards. That’s likely due to its height and its potential spread, which can reach 40 feet. Homeowners who choose the eastern white pine might like it for its resemblance to a Christmas tree, and in fact it is widely used for that purpose. The privacy provided by the eastern white pine is significant, but it might be best suited to especially large properties.

Whether it’s fencing or planting, homeowners have many options to consider as they seek to create more privacy on their properties. (MC) 

J A N UA RY 28, 2024

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 1 3

Preventive Care Guidelines For Women 40 And Older

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t may seem like adolescence is the time in a woman’s life when most of the biological changes she will experience take place. After all, puberty brings with it hormone fluctuations that can affect both physical and emotional health in various ways. However, as a woman enters mid-life and beyond, she may notice that she has to reevaluate her lifestyle to accommodate the evolution of her body and health.

Preventive health screenings and additional strategies can keep women fit and well as they reach age 40 and beyond.

Annual mammograms

Most doctors now recommend that women get annual mammograms starting at age 40. Mammograms can detect breast cancer early on at its most treatable stage. Manual breast exams conducted at home and by a doctor also can be vital tools.

Colorectal cancer screenings

A colonoscopy is recommended for all women between the ages of 45 and 50 (on the earlier side of that spectrum for African American women).

This test can reveal the presence of polyps and cancerous growths.

Vision

Annual eye exams should be a part of everyone’s vision care strategy. The American Optometric Association says that, between ages 41 and 60, people may notice differences in their vision. Some changes may happen more frequently, requiring new prescription eyeglasses. Therefore, it helps to visit an eye care professional to take corrective steps.

It’s also important to note that, as one ages, the vitreous (clear jelly) in the eye can thicken, leading to increased floaters and flashes that should be See PREVENT, page 21

BEST IN CLASS SPECIALTY CARE Right Here in the SCV Henry Mayo Newhall Hospital and Keck Medicine of USC are partnering to bring advanced services — cancer care, breast health, colorectal surgery, and specialty urology — to our community in the Santa Clarita Valley.

Keck Medicine’s USC Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center brings the latest innovations in cancer detection, prevention, and treatment to help you get the care you need close to home.

Learn more at KeckMedicine.org/HenryMayoSantaClarita

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H E A LT H & F I T N E S S

Advanced Dermatology

ELLACOR

The Ellacor® System with Micro-Coring™ Technology removes unwanted skin without surgery or thermal energy to treat moderate and severe wrinkles in the mid and lower face. The proprietary system precisely controls needle location and depth to remove tiny columns of skin. Afterwards, your skin will begin to heal through your body’s natural process,

resulting in reduced moderate and severe cheek wrinkles. Ellacor a first in excess tissue removal without heat, lasers, or surgery.

What is Ellacor?

Ellacor is one of the first devices to deliver tighter and smoother, younger-looking skin without surgery and scarring. This noninvasive treatment See DERMATOLOGY, page 16

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City of Hope

s a world-renowned National Cancer Institute-designated comprehensive cancer center whose primary focus is cancer research, treatment and care, City of Hope® Santa Clarita’s clinical network sites and radiation oncology location offers residents of Santa Clarita and neighboring communities’ access to world-class care, leading-edge treatments and clinical trials close to home.

Our multidisciplinary team of physicians, researchers, nurse practitioners and other health care professionals work together on diagnosing and treating a wide variety of solid tumors and blood cancers.

At our Santa Clarita clinical network sites, we offer our patients the latest advances in chemotherapy, hormonal therapy, immunology drugs, biologic therapy, targeted therapy and other innovative therapies.

City of Hope is also home to one of the nation’s most extensive radiation oncology programs in the country, spanning facilities from our main campus in Duarte across several clinical network locations in Southern California. City of Hope Santa Clarita Radiation Oncology offers patients state-of-the-art care and leading-edge treatments, combined with a longstanding reputation in excellence and expertise.

Our highly trained and board-certified radiation oncologists offer a compassionate, multidisciplinary team approach, access to wide-ranging therapies, the latest in cancer research and ongoing follow-up care.

These world-class services and technologies at each of our Santa Clarita locations ensure a whole-patient approach, precise treatment and optimal outcomes, along with the safest possible care. 

J A N UA RY 28, 2024

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 1 5

Thursday, April 18 | 5:30 pm A cancer diagnosis can be confusing and overwhelming. At this event, UCLA Health experts will demystify all things cancer for patients and their loved ones, sharing information about what a cancer diagnosis means, as well as details about the world-class treatment options available at UCLA Health Santa Clarita.

Introduction and Overview:

UCLA Health Santa Clarita-based Panelists:

Presented by UCLA Health hematologist oncologist Alexander Black, MD

• Alexander Black, MD | Hematology Oncology

Keynote Speaker: Dennis Slamon, MD, PhD World-renowned UCLA Health oncologist, cancer researcher and developer of Herceptin, the “drug that changed the breast cancer treatment landscape.”

• Rena Callahan, MD | Breast Medical Oncology • Omar Sahagun, MD | Radiology • Gregory Senofsky, MD | Surgical Oncology • Nimit Sudan, MD | Medical/Integrative Oncology and Hematology • Michael Xiang, MD, PhD | Radiation Oncology

Thursday, April 18, 2024 | 5:30 pm Location: Santa Clarita Performing Arts Center at College of the Canyons 26455 Rockwell Canyon Rd. | Santa Clarita, CA 91355 Scan or visit uclahealth.org/events/demystifying-cancer to learn more.

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H E A LT H & F I T N E S S

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Insight Treatment

nsight Treatment is an adolescent mental health treatment program for teens and their families (ages 13-18) and has been serving families for 30 years.

We have 7 locations across the Greater LA area and Central Valley.

Our Santa Clarita facility is located at 26330 Diamond Pl. off of Centre Pointe Pkwy.

Insight’s fundamental belief is that teens need to feel they belong to a

community of their peers. Teens will only really open up and express their emotional pain and challenges when they feel safe in this type of environment. In Santa Clarita we have a warehouse space that serves as a teen clubhouse for our PHP/IOP. This environment has proved to be more conducive to fostering relationships versus a more traditional setting in an office or medical building.

We provide an Intensive Outpatient

program (IOP) in the afternoon/evenings that consist of group, individual and family therapy. For those teens who are struggling with school we also have a day school where they can come and focus on their academic work (PHP).

We believe it is important to address the entire family system when a teen is struggling. We therefore provide a lot of

• Reduces excess skin by 5-8% each treatment session.

• Improvement of minor to moderate jowls • Improvement in the appearance of moderate to severe wrinkles • Reduction of marionette lines How many treatments will I need?

A minimum of 2 treatments, sched-

uled 6-8 weeks apart.

What is the recovery time?

While every patient heals at a different pace, we suggest a week of social downtime. There will be mild to moderate redness for 1-3 weeks.

Some patients return to work after 3 days. 

DERMATOLOGY

Continued from page 14

uses Micro-Coring, to treat skin laxity in the mid to lower face. The hallow needles remove micro cores of excess skin, without surgery or the use of thermal energy.

Benefits of Ellacor • Non- Surgical treatment without thermal heat • Scarless treatment

support to the parents with Family Night and Parent Group once a week.

We take all private-Insurance plans and in network with many insurance plans.

If you are interested discussing other insurance options or referrals, we would be happy to help out.

All calls are confidential and we offer an initial in-person assessment at no charge. We are happy to assist anyone in finding appropriate treatment program for your teen and family.

Give our admissions line a call at (888) 295-9995 for more information on our program or to schedule an assessment .

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J A N UA RY 28, 2024

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 1 7

H E A LT H & F I T N E S S

Winter Swimming For Healthier Kids

By Justine Kerrick

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intertime parents are stocking up on Children’s Tylenol, researching humidifiers, praying baby doesn’t catch their sibling’s cold. Three reasons swimming should be on your list of winter activities: Boosts the immune system, especially in cold weather. Swimming in

a warm-water, indoor pool, followed by a run to the car with semi-wet hair, they might be better able to fight off that bug going around. Research shows moderate exercise strengthens the immune system, and so does introducing your body to cold weather, especially when wet. Why do you think cold plunges are becoming extremely popular and Swedish towns See ACADEMY, page 25

2024 s n o i t u l o s e R r a New Ye

ess plan. n it f l a ic s y h p 1. Create fitness l a t n e m y m o 2. Commit t ney * r u o J s s e n it F 3. Start

* To achieve your skin’s optimal health, we recommend a customized skin fitness program that includes medical grade skin care products and treatments to help reverse and maintain skin’s quality by encouraging cell turnover and production of collagen and elastin for new, healthy, youthful looking skin.

Call Advanced Dermatology and Cosmetic Care for a FREE consultation to learn about Skin Fitness.

661.254.3686

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H E A LT H & F I T N E S S

UCLA Health Has You Covered in Santa Clarita — Before, During and After Cancer

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anked No. 1 in California for cancer care in U.S. News & World Report’s latest Best Hospitals assessment, UCLA Health offers world-class hematology oncology, radiation oncology, surgical oncology, interventional imaging care, transfusions, access to clinical trials and cancer genetics — plus a fullrange of wrap-around supportive services through

the Simms/Mann — UCLA Center for Integrative Oncology — right in the region.

“As a member of the Santa Clarita community, I can truly say that you are getting the world’s most cutting-edge, innovative care with the same kind of diligence that you’d get at any academic center,” says Nimit Sudan, MD, a UCLA Health hematologist oncologist who practices in Santa Clarita and Encino.

“Everybody is right here, and it’s amazing.”Oncologists at the UCLA Health Santa Clarita cancer care clinics are part of the UCLA Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center, based on the main UCLA Health campus in Westwood.

“Think of the UCLA Health Santa Clarita Valley clinics as tree branches and UCLA Health’s main campus as the larger tree — both are intimately connected, and every patient in Santa Clarita has access to the same findings from research studies, clinical trials and cutting-edge therapies available in Westwood and other UCLA Health locations.

“We are an extension of a world-renowned academic facility,” says Rena Callahan, MD, a UCLA Health hematologist oncologist who practices in

Santa Clarita and Santa Monica. “You have expert level care near your own home.”

Many services — both within cancer care and outside of it — come together at the UCLA Health Santa Clarita clinics to offer the best possible experience for patients.

For more information go to uclahealth.org/santaclarita 

Did you know?

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nnual flu shots may not be a tradition many people look forward to, but such vaccinations are highly effective at reducing the risk of influenza-related illness. The CDC reports that recent studies have indicated flu shots reduce the risk of flu-related illness by as much as 60%. In fact, the CDC estimates that flu vaccinations during the 2019-20 flu season prevented roughly 7.5 million flu illnesses and more than 100,000 influenza-associated hospitalizations. (MC)

J A N UA RY 28, 2024

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 1 9

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Hypnosis & Therapeutic Guided Imagery

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J A N UA RY 28, 2024

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S U N D AYS I G N A L · 2 1

H E A LT H & F I T N E S S

D

SCOI: Get the Most Out of Life!

iscover unparalleled orthopedic healthcare at Southern California Orthopedic Institute, your trusted partner in diagnosing and treating a wide range of musculoskeletal conditions. As the preferred expert in Valencia, we take pride in our commitment to delivering comprehensive and cutting-edge orthopedic care for patients of all ages.

Our team of 14 local doctors brings a wealth of expertise to address bone, joint, and muscle injuries, as well as

PREVENT

Continued from page 13

checked by an ophthalmologist, as they may lead to retinal tears or detachment that can threaten vision.

Cholesterol Screening

Heart disease is the leading cause of death among women, says the Centers for Disease Control and Preven-

musculoskeletal and spinal disorders.

At Southern California Orthopedic Institute, we understand the unique needs of our community and strive to provide personalized solutions for optimal orthopedic health.

Whether your condition calls for surgical precision or nonsurgical alternatives, our practice stands at the forefront of both approaches. With specialists in various disciplines, we offer a comprehensive approach to bone, joint, and muscle issues. Our two regenerative medicine specialists

lead the way in providing state-ofthe-art nonsurgical solutions, ensuring that you receive the latest advancements in orthopedic care.

Convenience is paramount in our patient-centered philosophy. Southern California Orthopedic Institute offers on-site services, including physical therapy, occupational therapy, and rehabilitation, providing a seamless continuum of care.

Southern California Orthopedic Institute isn’t just a healthcare provider; we are your dedicated partner

in achieving and maintaining orthopedic wellness. Trust us to deliver exceptional care, reflecting our deep appreciation for the Valencia community we serve.

To schedule an appointment or learn more about our services, call (661) 254-6364 or visit www.scoi. com. Your journey to optimal orthopedic health begins with Southern California Orthopedic Institute.

Van Nuys | Bakersfield | Valencia | Simi Valley | Westlake | Beverly Hills | Porter Ranch 

tion. Cholesterol screening and other cardiovascular screenings can detect the presence of heart disease or indicate a person’s risk for it. Annual physical exams likely will include cholesterol checks as well as tests investigating other lipids in the blood.

naturally producing enough vitamin D from sun exposure, nor absorbing enough from the foods they eat. Vitamin D deficiency can be a serious concern in adult women, particularly those above the age of 40. Vitamin D deficiency can adversely affect mood, and an article published in 2018 in the Journal of Family Medicine and Primary Care found vitamin D deter-

mines the pattern of post-menopausal bone loss and age-related osteoporosis. Verywell Health also says vitamin D is an important nutrient for preventing diabetes, cancer and age-related weight gain.

Moving into middle age brings about changes. Women should evolve health care plans accordingly to stay as healthy as possible. (MC) 

Vitamin D Check

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H E A LT H & F I T N E S S

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t Tower Imaging Valencia we understand the importance of accurate and quality imaging, which is why we’re bringing you the latest in imaging technology.

We’re the first in SCV to install the new Omni Legend digital PET/ CT system from GE Healthcare. The Omni Legend’s innovation offers the power of an advanced digital detector capable of producing high-resolution images and faster exam times. This technology has enabled us to identify and localize cancer faster than ever before, which is a significant breakthrough in healthcare. PET/CT provides valuable information that can help physicians make accurate diagnosis, predict treatment outcomes, and choose the best therapies for patients.

For over a decade, the physicians of Tower Imaging have provided highly specialized expertise, premier imaging technology, and exceptional customer care to physicians and patients

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Thank you from the bottom of our hearts for choosing Yoga Yoga as the best studio in SCV. We are immensely grateful to the Signal and to our community for awarding our shala this recognition five years in a row.

We are honored to have had the opportunity to serve our community for over 29 years and love to provide healing practices which bring peace, hope, and inspiration.

Thank you again for your trust in us. We look forward to connecting with you and exceeding your expectations.

With sincere gratitude, Dani Ibarra, Owner Specializing in yoga therapy for beginners and seniors as well as vinyasa flow for all levels.

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H E A LT H & F I T N E S S

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Let Love Flow this New Year!

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e’re not big on “resolutions” here at Thermal Horizons. Ben and I had tried in the past to set these incredible-sounding goals but felt disappointed when we inevitably came up short (usually on January 2 while making cookies with the grandkids).

Of course, it was my mom who helped us realize that lofty resolutions were just about a fear we had to let go of (“I am afraid people won’t like me if my body isn’t perfect” was an annual fear). She told me to let go of fear

or hurt in my heart by looking inward and releasing what was not serving me. I understand this now as setting an intention (“I am loved” was always applicable).

For 2024, we are “resolving” to Let the Love Flow within our community.

By opening our hearts and releasing what doesn’t serve us, we invite you to lean into that with us. Let the support and love that surrounds you on your mat wash away your fears this year!

Our Thermal Horizons community has become a surrogate family for Ben, me, and all of our members!

We invite you to let that love flow in 2024. Set your intention to leave your fear behind and let in the nurturing and supportive space for personal growth and well-being. You deserve it, and we’re here to support you!

So much love, Jaime Annett Owner, Certified Yoga Instructor and Sound Healer Thermal Horizons Yoga and Wellness Center 

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ACADEMY

Continued from page 17

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PUZZLES CROSSWORD TIME

SOLUTIONS

J A N UA RY 28, 2024

Opinion

S U N D AY S I G N A L · 2 7

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

Love America First Instead of Democrats putting President Donald Trump on trial for anything they can think of, and instead of Republicans going after Hunter Biden because it will hurt President Joe Biden, instead of looking to have college loans forgiven and getting “free” food or “free” medical insurance ... What ever happened to this novel idea?

“And so my fellow Americans: Ask not what your country can do for you — ask what you can do for your country.”

— John F. Kennedy What ever happened to caring for America first? Most psychologist will tell you that, personally, you need to love yourself first, before you can truly love others. If we don’t, then we will no longer have a nation! We will simply become a part of a world government. And believe me, none of us would like living under a world government. The closest things to a world government today are the European Union and the United Nations. And how well are they working? The EU is falling apart and the U.N. stands up to no one!

“Let every nation know, whether it wishes us well or ill, that we shall pay any price, bear ay burden, meet any hardship, support any friend, oppose any foe to assure the success of Liberty. … Let us go forth to lead the land we love, asking His blessing and His help, but knowing that here on Earth, God’s work must truly be our own.”

— JFK So let me end with these last few words. Stop illegals.

Enforce laws. Compromise. Stop hating.

Members of Congress, are you paying attention?

Ron Perry Canyon Country

An Unlikely Health Care Hero In 1988, I sat in a Moscow hotel with a dozen Americans and our Russian tour guide, discussing health care. The liberals were decrying the American health system, until the Russian guide bravely asked how much it cost to deliver a baby in America. She then went on to say that she would gladly pay a year’s salary just to be able to choose her delivery doctor in Russia. Most of them were drunkards.

You could have heard a pin drop.

And yet just 20 years later, Americans would elect a man who crippled the American health system in innumerable Russian-like ways, even lying that “if you like your doctor, you can keep your doctor.”

Most incredibly, many liberals still view that man as some sort of health care hero.

Rob Kerchner Santa Clarita Submit a Letter to the Editor

Include name, address & phone. E-mail: letters@signalscv.com.

Mail: Letters to the Editor, The Signal, 25060 Avenue Stanford, Suite 141, Santa Clarita, CA 91355. Anonymous letters are not published.

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

Seeing Anger as an Enemy

By David Hegg

I

n the biblical story of Jonah, after enjoying an all-expensepaid, three-night stay in waterfront accommodations in the belly of the whale, the prophet finally completes the mission God gave him. He went to Nineveh, preached impending doom to the city, and watched them repent and ward off God’s judgment. And, unlike every other preacher, Jonah was furious that thousands responded to his message. He was angry at their repentance, even more so when God relented and didn’t wipe out the city.

Yes, keep reading; there is a point to be made here.

As Jonah sat, outraged that Nineveh was being spared, God asked him a question for the ages. He asked it twice. “Do you have a good reason to be angry?” In Jonah’s case, he certainly thought he did, but by the end of the story, his anger was not honest. Instead, it was selfish.

He was angry simply because he didn’t get his way.

I am asking the same question of us all. Do we have a good reason to be angry? Clearly, we are angry as individuals and as a people. We’re angry on the freeways, we’re angry at work, and we’re angry at home. We’re angry racially, economically, politically, socially, religiously, and sexually. We’re angry, and what’s so horrible about our anger is we’ve come to enjoy it, seek it, and express it in ever more explicit and violent ways. Worst of all, our kids see it and are being infected with the toxin of anger at increasingly earlier ages.

But do we have a good reason to be angry?

Perhaps this is just another way of asking, “Are we angry at the right things, for the right reasons, and in the right way?”

Are we angry at the devolution of the rule of law in our country? Are we angry at the erosion of civil discourse and neighborly love? Are we angry at our increasing lack of self-discipline in a consumer culture on steroids? Are we angry at our own selfishness, pride and pragmatism?

And are we angry at the monumental evidence America is fast losing its moral center? I hope we are.

And are we angry for the right reasons? Is our anger fueled by a deep-seated desire, not for retribution or selfish advantage, but rather to see our nation rise above petty differences

to fully embrace our founding idea of “out of many, one?” Is our anger righteously motivated, not for political advantage, but for our pluralistic society's proper health and well-being? Or are we angry because we aren’t getting our way, and it just feels good to go off, spewing invective designed to throw fuel on the already raging fires of outrage?

Finally, are we expressing and using our anger in the right way? When anger is righteous in its grounds and motives, it will not choose violence as its voice. It will not be selfish. It will not be arrogant. It will pray and weep and seek meaningful conversation. It will listen and persevere courageously until the problems are correctly described, understood, and ultimately, overcome.

Anger can be an acid capable of eating away at its container. Often, anger is corrosive, first corrupting its owner and then infecting those around. We are seeing this played out everywhere today.

At least on the national scale, the current political scene seems more like third graders fighting on the playground than a national conversation on the challenges of 21st-century living. How sad to see haranguing continue when we desperately need humility, self-control, and intelligence to reign. Are we so blind we cannot recognize our political tribalism has turned governing into an arrogant competition for power, with anger and outrage becoming its primary tactic?

At times, I wonder if reversal is possible. In those times, I remember America is more than those currently dominating the news with their scripted anger and nonsensical pronouncements. “We, the people,” have formed the core of this nation since its inception, and clearly, we are its only hope.

So, here’s the deal: Let’s try listening before launching. Let’s commit to looking first at our own selfishness and shortcomings and doing some personal cleanup. And let’s get back to doing to others as we would want them to do to us. After all, Jesus called us to love both our neighbors and our enemies. And, as far as I can see, that means everyone.

Local resident David Hegg is senior pastor of Grace Baptist Church. “Ethically Speaking” appears Sundays. 

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