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J A N UA RY 31, 2021

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 3

TABLE OF CONTENTS

NEWS FEATURES 4 5 6 7

4

Using resistance to reach ‘Complete’ goals Beekeepers part of SCV’s thriving agriculture Its wedding season! Hosting a socially distanced event Character, balance and luxury behind the wheel

SignalSCV.com Presents Podcasts

FROM THE MAYOR

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8 A reminder about park safety and health protocols

ENTERTAINMENT 9 9 Cry, laugh and prepare to be amazed with these two

FOOD

1 0 Hearty, wholesome dishes to support your immune system Grilled Portobello Gyros Roasted Chicken Thighs and Veggies

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HEALTH 11 11 Improve your mental health with better sleep

HOME 12

SCV Leadership and Business Solutions with Lisa and Paul Raggio Helpful advice on life and business

12 On-trend kitchen and bath upgrades

SENIOR LIVING

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REAL ESTATE

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13 Managing high cholesterol 14 The differences between real estate agents, brokers

PETS 15 1 5 Brush up on pet dental health Got picky pooches? Some solutions for finicky eaters

GARDENING 16

Selina Thomas SCV’s HR Guru “She makes your business her business.”

16 Winter gardening that you can do indoors

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1 7 Donna’s Day: Scare away monsters with this bedtime night-light Junior Whirl  How to say that in …

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OPINION 18 TECHNOLOGY/CROSSWORD 19 SPECIALIZING IN PRECISION ELECTRONIC TUNE-UPS, FUEL INJECTION, IGNITION, SMOG CHECK, GENERAL AUTOMOTIVE REPAIR

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4 · S U N D AYS I G N A L

J A N UA RY 31, 2021

N E W S F E AT U R E

Using resistance to reach ‘Complete’ goals

By Brennon Dixson Signal Staff Writer

S

cience has prompted many changes in the ways people exercise over the years, but residents of the Santa Clarita Valley are beginning to recognize the benefits of pilates, prompting the formation of new businesses and programs in the area.

When one thinks of pilates, one most likely imagines a version similar to mat pilates, which is common in gyms and other workout facilities.

However, studios such as Suzi Smith’s Complete Pilates & Fitness in Valencia tend to specialize in an equipment-based version of the popular workout routine.

Before last March, you could have stepped into her studio between Monday and Saturday and found yourself thrust into a full-body workout that offered unbelievable results.

Today, while the results are still there to be attained, the classes are simply held outdoor and online.

With a number of different machines and multiple reformers, Smith is able to offer a complete pilates experience that leaves participants — young and old — feeling renewed, she said.

Current classes include a resistance pilates class

Resistance training through the use of resistance or pilates bands is perfect for strengthing, stretching and toning your muscles.

Before the public health restrictions,Suzi Smith (facing) could be found instructing students inside her Complete Pilates & Fitness studio. Currently classes are held outdoors under shelter or online. SIGNAL PHOTO

in a covered fitness area. The 45-minute class is limited to three people and the equipment is fully sanitized between each class.

Virtual classes include group pilates, barre and private sessions.

As director of the studio, the master instructor can often be seen constantly moving throughout her various classes, focusing on the ways she can help each client. Usually it’s something as simple as an adjustment or modification to a stretch, but other injuries can require more workarounds.

Luckily, all of the equipment is resistance-based, so it replaces weights and allows you to develop long and lean muscles, Smith said. “That’s what attracts people to pilates. You don’t get that bulky muscle. You look thinner, taller (and) it is great for bone density.”

Participants have explained that it is a lot harder than it looks.

Some who have been doing the class for as long as a decade said once you do it, you’re addicted.

Others added nothing alleviates their aches like pilates and the routine has helped them handle chronic pain and even osteoporosis.

“That’s the beauty of pilates,” Smith said. “I’ve had people come in with a cast. I’ve got people who come in with crutches, but they all can still workout because it is all so easily modified for every person.”

It’s not like that at every studio, Smith said, “but in here, that’s what we do.”

Smith said she first got into pilates as a dancer in an effort to prevent injuries and has been teaching for more than 20 years.

She has taught in the studio located on Lyons Avenue for more than 15 years, and has owned it for

the last seven. Today, she offers a number of other services in her studio, including barre.

Barre is pilates based, “but my class is also cardio based,” Smith said. “A lot of my clients come here because they don’t like the gym. They really want to come in and have a more intimate experience.”

Smith said her barre class is low-impact, meaning it could be a good replacement for running and walking. It’s also modifiable for those who have ankle or knee injuries.

“If you aren’t into weight or exercise machines then pilates is the way to go. It’s very popular and it’s certainly a form of working out,” said William Holstein, general manager of the Henry Mayo Fitness and Health center.

“We’ve done pilates mats, but there was definitely a demand for more,” Holstein said. This is why Henry Mayo Newhall Fitness and Health has opened a pilates studio with pilates reformer classes. 

Complete Pilates & Fitness is located at 22800 Lyons Ave., Ste. 120 in Valencia. Call (661) 208-8900 or visit www.completepilatesfitness. com. For more information about Henry Mayo’s program, call (661) 200-2348 or visit www. henrymayofitness.org.

The benefits of pilates

P

ilates is perfect for those who want to strengthen, tone and lengthen muscles while at the same time focusing on core, according to the Henry Mayo Fitness and Health Center.

According to their website, “Pilates is a universal exercise routine ideal for a wide-range of fitness levels including novice and intermediate exercisers, athletes and those recovering from injury.” With the personal programs, “we are able to adapt to your fitness level to accommodate your needs and wants.”

Other benefits of pilates include: • Mindful movement • Proper breathing techniques • Increased mind and body awareness • Core and postural strength to include abdominal muscles, torso and spine, hips and glutes • Improved spinal stabiliation • Stress management and relaxation • Rehabilitation of joint and spinal injuries • Low-impact exercise Henry Mayo Fitness and Health is located at 24525 Town Center Dr. in Valencia 91355. The number is (661) 200-2348. 

J A N UA RY 31, 2021

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 5

N E W S F E AT U R E

Beekeepers part of SCV’s thriving agriculture

By Caleb Lunetta Signal Staff Writer

F

or a lot of people, the story of bees begins and ends with knowing these little insects build hives, help pollinate and can sting.

But the insects are also a cornerstone of our ecosystem, and a vital part of the state’s multibillion-dollar agriculture industry.

In fact, honey bees contribute nearly $20 billion a year to the value of U.S. crop production, according to the American BeeKeeping Association, helping increase crop yield and quality for everything from apples to cranberries to broccoli.

Almonds, which, according to a 2019 Iowa State University study, are California’s third-largest agricultural commodity, generating $21.5 billion for the state. The crop is wholly dependent on pollination by bees.

But one thing people might not realize about bees in the United States: They’re actually disappearing.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has described this nationwide phenomena as the Colony Collapse Disorder, or CCD, which is when a majority of the worker bees in a colony “disappear and leave behind a queen, plenty of food and a few nurse bees to care for the remaining immature bees and the queen.”

The leading theory on CCD, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, is that this phenomena occurs due to a complex variety of factors, from pathogens to parasites to poor nutrition. However, year after year, beekeepers report that their hives are under serious pressure.

Bee local Despite the pressure, beekeepers have a self-sustaining community in the SCV, with bee-removal services available if needed, or if you want to go the other direction and be closer to the bees, tastings are available, too.

Just down Highway 126, Bennett’s Honey Farm not only produces its own honey right at the farm, but also offers guests a chance to purchase their various home grown prod-

ucts such as bee pollen, beeswax, creamed honey, candles, raw honeycomb or honey barbecue sauce.

Further into Ventura County are other bee farm options, including Ventura Bee Rescue, Mission Beekeeping and Blue Ridge Honey.

In order to help reverse the damage being done to bees, buying organic and local produce, especially local raw honey, is one of the best ways everyday residents can assist, said local beekeeper David Saraf.

“Instead of buying store-bought honey, try going to a farmers market and getting honey,” said Saraf. “Because that helps your local beekeepers.”

Bennett’s Honey Farm is located at 3176 Honey Lane, Fillmore. Their store is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., and Saturday and Sunday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

The buzz about behavior Given their desire to protect their favorite insects, local beekeepers are doing as much as they can to inform the public about what’s happening.

Saraf, who removes hives in and around the Santa Clarita Valley, regularly shares interesting facts about bees, whether online or in-person.

Through his family owned and operated business named A Bee Man, Saraf regularly shares that bees have been important to humanity for thousands of years with ancient societies using honey for everything from medical treatments to beauty regiments.

“The main thing though that we want people to know about bees is not only do they make honey, which is delicious, but they are also pollinators and they pollinate about one third of our food source,” said Talia Saraf, David’s daughter, who works with her father after learning about beekeeping while watching him over the years. “Especially here in California … I think that’s the most important thing: that people are scared of bees but they’re really friendly.”

Saraf said one of the biggest misconceptions around bees is that they’re aggressive or looking to hurt you, a stigma beekeepers have been fighting for years now.

Bees are, however, very-time con-

Beekeeper David Saraf examines each frame from the hive as part of the honeyextraction process. Beekeepers only take honeycombs from the top box, leaving the hive with at least 10 frames of honey. PHOTO COURTESY A BEE MAN

suming and difficult to raise if an aspiring-beekeeper is inexperienced, and knowing how they behave, or what they’re susceptible to, is critical to the species survival.

“It’s a daily thing to check on them constantly to make sure they’re not dealing with any mites, or they’re not dealing with little beetles that can infest the hive or even just making sure that the queen is laying eggs properly,” said Saraf. “Because if she gets too old, and she starts having problems laying eggs, then it will be a weaker hive.”

All this is to say that not only are there people out there in the SCV and surrounding communities that are generally worried about the bees, but they are working hard to ensure their survival.

Hive mentality So what then should you do if you find a beehive on your property, or even inside your house?

“The first thing that we always recommend is to stay away from the hive,” said Saraf. “A lot of people think, ‘Oh, just spray them with water.’ Don’t do that.”

The next step, Saraf said, would be to call a bee removal specialist who

does not exterminate the hive, but rather humanely and carefully transfers them away from your home or property.

A good bee specialist, if the hive is located on the outside of a building, can quickly remove the hive while limiting damage to the colony itself.

The removal specialists ensure they have the queen secured, and then depending on the time of day, the beekeeper will either take the box away immediately or wait until sunset for all the bees to return and enter the transport container.

If the bees are located inside a structure, like an attic, Saraf says the humane strategy is time consuming, but helps to ensure that the colony survives after removal, and can be given to either a professional or hobbyist beekeeper.

“A lot of times when people decide to go with the cheaper option of just killing the bees, they actually end up having bees return, end up with an even bigger problem and have to call us, and so it’s just a longer process for them” said Saraf “I think it’s always best to just do it right the first time. relocate these and do it properly so that you’re not dealing with this problem over and over again.” 

6 · S U N D AYS I G N A L

J A N UA RY 31, 2021

N E W S F E AT U R E

How to host a safe, socially distant wedding

I

t’s likely that few people heard of “social distancing” prior to 2020. That changed as the novel coronavirus spread rapidly across the globe and the world found itself in the midst of a deadly pandemic.

Though much of the world hit the proverbial pause button, life went on during the pandemic. Perhaps nowhere was that more evident than at the altar, where many couples still tied the knot, albeit in scaled back ceremonies that adhered to social distancing guidelines in their communities.

Engaged couples who have yet to tie the knot no doubt recognize that planning a socially distant wedding will not be the same as organizing more traditional ceremonies and receptions. While planning a socially distant wedding presents some unique challenges, couples can take certain steps to ensure their big day is memorable and safe.

Spread the socially distant word

Let guests know what they’re in for should they decide to take part in the festivities. Many people have strictly

followed social distancing guidelines, while others have been reluctant to do so.

Couples intent on keeping themselves and their guests safe should emphasize that their weddings will be socially distant affairs so there’s no confusion come the big day.

Keep guests up-to-date

It helps to keep your guests up to date about any changes in your safety precautions plan. One way to do that is to include detailed information on your wedding website.

You can also insert a card detailing this information into your invitation envelopes so all guests know what to expect when they accept the invitation.

Stream the wedding online

Stream the wedding online for those guests who won’t be in attendance. By the end of 2020, millions of people had already “attended” weddings using platforms such as Zoom, so loved ones may be experienced virtual guests by the time couples walk down the aisle in 2021.

Couples who may need some help planning virtual affairs can visit the

virtual wedding coordinators at Wedfuly.com, who recently partnered with Zoom to help couples bring their ceremonies online.

Wedfuly.com can help coordinate guests on as many as 1,000 devices.

The online resource Simply Eloped.com was initially created to

Virtual vendors an option for unique weddings

Pare down the guest list

N

ormal took on an entirely new connotation in 2020. Engaged couples planning to get married in 2020, and then 2021, faced and continue to face unique challenges. According to the online wedding resource WeddingWire, in 2020 roughly 450,000 weddings were scheduled to take place between March and May in the United States.

Social distancing guidelines and fluctuating virus rates led many couples to get married in small ceremonies with only a handful of people on hand to witness them say “I do” in person. Virtual ceremonies shared through conferencing apps like Zoom soon became the new “normal,” but planning such events can be just as difficult as planning more traditional affairs.

Thankfully, couples can work with an assortment of virtual vendors as they confront the challenges of planning weddings during the pandemic.

The online resource SimplyEloped was initially created to provide couples with an alternative to traditional weddings and all the stress and difficulty that comes with planning such affairs. The service can help you plan a small ceremony, in addition to helping you coordinate

provide couples with an alternative to traditional weddings, and all the stress and difficulty that comes with planning such affairs.

The service offers advice on everything to planning ceremonies featuring 20 guests or less to coordinating photography, videography and floral arrangements.

In 2020, roughly

450,000

weddings were scheduled to take place between March and May your photography, videography and floral arrangement vendors. Similarly, the online resource Wedfuly assists couples with the planning of virtual weddings, helping to coordinate guests on as many as 1,000 devices.

Couples tying the knot during the pandemic may need to confront some unique challenges en route to saying “I do.” Relying on the services of virtual vendors can help such couples overcome these challenges and create memories that will last a lifetime. (MC) 

Couples who planned large weddings prior to the pandemic can still invite all of their loved ones to witness the festivities online, but pare down the in-person guest list. Limit in-person guests to immediate family and those people who are part of your social distancing bubble.

Be sure to check on current public health restrictions on gatherings.

Plan a party for down the road Couples can still celebrate their nuptials with family and friends down the road. Plan a post-pandemic reception and let guests know you will fill them in on the details once social distancing restrictions have been lifted.

Socially distanced weddings may require couples to take some unusal steps as they try to tie the knot while keeping themselves and their loved ones safe. It can be done, however, with careful planning and consideration.(MC) 

J A N UA RY 31, 2021

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 7

N E W S F E AT U R E

Looking at character, balance, luxury behind the wheel

By Tammy Murga Signal Staff Writer

F

rom reliability to quality and aesthetics, every automobile manufacturer becomes known for specific attributes in their vehicles that set them apart from others.

Foreign cars are no exception, with collectors and connoisseurs all having their favorite aspects among the Swiss, German and French car-makers, for the Volvo, Mercedes Benz and the Citroën, too. The last is a bit rarer, but there’s also a local mechanic who specializes in the sporty French vehicles.

Comfort with character

If you’re looking for a European brand that values comfort and character, look no further than the French Citroën, which began as an upstart company early on in the automobile industry in Europe, part of a tradition that continues today.

Since its beginning, Citroën has established itself as an innovative, forward-thinking manufacturer. In 1919, André Citroën launched his project of producing a popular, mass-produced car.

“History remembers the all-steel body, the floating engine, the unibody chassis and Traction Avant (the first mass-produced front-wheel drive vehicle),” reads Citroën’s origins website.

From hatchbacks, like the C1 or C3, to larger family models, ranging from the Spacetourer to the C3 Aircross SUV, they’re well known for their value and quirky designs that continue to keep alive its tradition, featuring “Airbump” technology that protects

cars from bumps and scrapes and in straying from the sports look other brands prioritize.

“You would be amazed by how soft (the drive) is. Soft doesn’t mean like a boat or like with a 60s American car, but super-soft absorbing any irregularities of the road,” said Jean-Francois Martin, who started MARRS Automotive Repair and Racing Services last year in Santa Clarita and is a longtime owner of a Citroën 2CV. He had the 1977 model, which he received at age 18, shipped from France about 15 years ago.

Citroën models have also been known for their simplicity and reliability but with the addition of competition, they place at just below average. On the Reliability Index, the brand was rated 21st out of 40, with a reliability index of 114, a figure from ReliabilityIndex.com. This looks at factors such as the number of times a car fails, the cost of repairing it, the average amount of time it spends off the road due to repairs.

Though a classic brand with value, they are rare in the U.S. Martin estimates there to be about 500 in Southern California and about 4,000 nationwide, making it a unique niche locally.

MAARS is located at 25845 Railroad Ave., Unit 4, Santa Clarita, and can be reached at (661) 644-8612.

Finding a good balance

Swedish carmaker Volvo has been a leader in the field of car safety for decades, which has always been a point of pride for the brand — but over the years, it’s also climbed to the ranks in terms of prestige for top luxury European brands.

“Volvo is now a true rival to the likes of Audi, BMW, Jaguar and Mercedes-Benz, offering an alternative take on premium executive cars to a rapidly growing fanbase,” according to the whatcar.com, a UK site that offers expert car reviews and vehicle deals.

Take the XC90 model, which Con-

The Mercedes-Benz of Valencia showroom has the latest models on display for the German luxury brand.

PHOTO BY BOBBY BLOCK / THE SIGNAL

Mechanic Jean-Francois Martin sits inside a classic 1972 Citroen DS Safari wagon at MARRS Automotive Repair and Racing Services in Santa Clarita. PHOTO BY DAN WATSON / THE SIGNAL

sumer Guide rated among the best car buys.

The pros It’s spacious, flaunts a luxuriously trimmed cabin, is economical with a 4-cylinder engine and has a broad range of unconventional safety and technology features.

The cons It’s third-row seats are cramped for adults, has complicated touchscreen controls and its fully equipped editions come with a price tag to match.

“The XC90 is at the head of the premium midsize SUV class. It offers excellent all-around refinement, a smorgasbord of available features, and cushy road manners,” according to a Consumer Guide review, “all while maintaining a distinct Scandinavian character.”

Valencia Volvo Independent is located at 26951 Ruether Ave., Unit J, Santa Clarita, and can be reached at (661) 298-2784.

Something more luxurious

With its German slogan that translates to “the best or nothing,” Mercedes-Benz is well-established as a luxury brand, vowing to offer “innovation, performance, design, safety and environment,” according to its website.

Mercedes offers variety: It’s lineup ranges from the A-Class family hatchback to the C-Class and E-Class, as well as SUVs, luxury coupés and convertibles.

In looking at one of its most popular vehicles, the C-Class, what’s not to like? The 2020 model packs in overall refinement, fine-ride quality and unique safety characteristics such as collision warning, autonomous emergency braking and pedestrian alert.

With these features, however, the model loses trunk space and is more expensive with only some improved standard equipment, according to Consumer Guide Automobile, which offers expert car reviews. Pricing can range between $42,000 for a 300 sedan and $53,800 for a 300 Coupe.

“The redesigned C-Class moved a bit upscale in size and prestige.

Its strong points include regal cabin appointments and an impressive array of comfort, safety, and technology features. Prices are steep, but the C-Class is a compelling premium-compact car choice,” read the review on Consumer Guide’s website.

Often dealer alternatives can offer expert services and repairs than you would at a traditional dealership. In the SCV, German Hi-Tech in Valencia and German Autohaus in Newhall bring specialized bumper-to-bumper service for Mercedes and other German brands.

For the latest, high-end selection locally, Mercedes-Benz of Valencia is located at 23355 Valencia Blvd., Santa Clarita. 

8 · S U N D AYS I G N A L

J A N UA RY 31, 2021

F R O M T H E M AY O R

A reminder about park safety and health protocols

By Bill Miranda Santa Clarita Mayor

S

anta Clarita is a place known for its immense track record of putting community before self and taking necessary steps to achieve common goals that serve all our interests.

Another one of the many benefits of living in Santa Clarita is that the weather allows for residents to enjoy the great outdoors virtually every day of the year.

I hope that you and your family are taking advantage of this and remaining both safe and healthy as we move through the winter months. It is heartening to see so many residents enjoying the City’s parks, trails and open space areas on a daily basis, as recreation and

exercise are crucial for maintaining your physical and mental wellbeing.

At the start of the ongoing coronavirus pandemic, the City was able to keep its parks and other amenities open to the public because residents were heeding health orders through physical distancing and the wearing of face coverings when out and about. Though we saw a surge in cases during cold and flu season as expected, we are now thankfully seeing a slight decline.

As more vaccine doses are made available, and the vaccination process is opened up to more residents, we are hopeful that we will see an even sharper decline. While we are on the right path, now is also the time to remain resolute and not stray from the actions and behaviors that have helped us make progress thus far.

This is why it is as important as ever for each and every one of us to do his or her part to slow the spread — and ultimately put an end to — this pandemic. Doing this starts with maintaining a safe distance from others and wearing a face covering while visiting a park, using a trail or hiking in the open space that surrounds our beautiful valley.

Current public health orders put in place by the state and county require that residents follow social distancing and face-covering guidelines for public amenities to remain open. In addition to wearing a face covering and avoiding gatherings, there are a few other tips you can follow to maximize safety and minimize exposure risk.

Bring activities with you to do as a family at the park and try to plan to visit during off-peak hours. This way, if another family is using the

playground, for example, you will still have things to do to keep active while you wait.

You can also take part in the City’s 35 Parks Challenge (santa-clarita.com/CanDos). This allows you to discover every park in Santa Clarita so you know other places to visit should one park be too crowded.

Remember, taking the small step to wear a face covering and avoid gathering with people outside of your household not only protects yourself and those around you but it also helps accomplish a common goal. And in Santa Clarita, that’s what we are all about.

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. 

J A N UA RY 31, 2021

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 9

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

Cry, laugh and prepare to be amazed with these two Gaudio. No MPAA rating. Running time: 90 minutes.

By Richard Roeper Signal Contributing Writer

W

‘Our Friend

(out of four) 

Rated R (for language). Running time: 126 minutes. On demand.

T

hey come bearing dishes. Casseroles and lasagna, baked sweets and mystery entrees concealed in readyto-heat dishes.

They don’t want to come inside because they don’t want to wake you up in case you’re resting; they’ll just leave the dish with a handwritten note outside the front door and scurry back to their lives, because they’re healthy and you have cancer and they don’t know what else to do so they come bearing dishes.

The gentle, two-boxes-of-tissue tearjerker “Our Friend” is filled with scenes like the aforementioned, scenes that ring true for anyone who has had a serious illness or had a loved one with a serious illness, and that’s just about all of us, isn’t it?

In Gabriela Cowperthwaite’s “Our Friend,” based on an Esquire magazine article written by Matthew Teague, we witness many a familiar scene from the cancer movie blueprint (see “Love Story,” “Terms of Endearment,” “The Fault in Our Stars,” et al.), from the noble patient, who just might beat this thing but then suffers a setback to the loving friends and family members who are sometimes overwhelmed by everything but feel like they can’t complain, to the flashback sequences when life was relatively carefree and light, to the final farewell, which gets us every time.

What’s unusual about this tale is the Third Wheel element.

Dakota Johnson’s Nicole Teague has been close friends with Jason Segel’s Dane since their college days, and Nicole’s globe-trotting journalist husband Matt (Casey Affleck) has also become best buds with Dane, a likable, self-effacing, directionless, lumbering guy who resembles a cartoon character come to life and has never quite found his footing. Nicole and Matt have two young daughters, and Matt’s work can be all-consuming, so when the devastating news comes that Nicole’s cancer has spread and she has only months

PHOTO COURTESY IMDB

to live, Dane offers to move in and help out in any way he can — and the Teagues leap at the offer.

Days turn into weeks turn into months, and the huge-hearted Dane is there every step of the way, whether he’s helping the girls get ready for school or clinking beers with Matt and offering a sympathetic ear or listening to Nicole, who bears her burden with great dignity and strength but is prone to the occasional meltdown, as any of us would be.

It’s all very lovely but just a little bit … odd. Dane is like a nicer and much more helpful version of that slacker guy who represents a supposedly inferior wireless service in those TV commercials. He’s ALWAYS there. Of course, as Dane put his life on hold, we know this experience — tragic as it is — will make him a better person and provide the clarity and purpose that have always eluded him. This is a Learning Journey.

With the sometimes-intrusive score reminding us this is a sad but also uplifting story and the visuals heavy on sun-dappled splendor, “Our Friend” occasionally goes overboard on the sentiment. But thanks in large part to Segel’s huggable-bear persona, Affleck’s typically steady work and Dakota Johnson turning in perhaps the most impressive performance of her career, the laughs and the tears feel quite real.

‘Derek Delgaudio’s In & Of Itself ’ 1/2 

Hulu presents a film directed by Frank Oz and written by Derek Del-

ith all due and great respect to the prestidigitation talents of David Copperfield and David Blaine and Phil Dunphy and others of their ilk, I’ve never been an ardent fan of magic acts as captured for TV specials or films.

No matter how straightforward the camera angles, no matter how long the unbroken shots, there’s always this nagging sense of: Yeah, but they can do anything with CGI these days …

Maybe that’s not fair, but haven’t you thought the same thing once or twice?

That being said, it’s a tribute to the amazing and fantastically perplexing and singularly mind-blowing Hulu film “In & of Itself ” that even though a few of the feats performed by magician/actor/storyteller/performance artist Derek DelGaudio in his oneman show could be explained away by the use of special effects (which DelGaudio does NOT employ, as far as we can tell), most of it just seems …

Magical.

Directed by Frank Oz of Muppets and voice-of-Yoda fame and with Stephen Colbert among its producers, “In & of Itself ” is a “concert film” of DelGaudio’s one-man show at the Daryl Roth Theatre in Manhattan, which was produced by Neil Patrick Harris and ran from May 2016 until August 2018. Literally dozens of performances are incorporated into the film.

Throughout “In & of Itself,” DelGaudio breaks the fourth wall and not only addresses the audience as if they were sitting across from him in a diner, but brings some individuals onstage and near the end walks among the audience, communicating with nearly every member of the crowd in a quiet, simple way that has the tear ducts working overtime.

The 30-something DelGaudio, who looks and sounds like the Most Average Man in the world and yet commands the stage with effortless ease, performs the work in a stark setting, on a stage containing two chairs and a table, with a ladder propped up against the back wall, which contains

a half-dozen dioramas, including an automaton, a bottle of booze, a brass scale, the horizon at sundown, a brick penetrating a pane of glass and rows of mail compartment shelves containing dozens of letters. Each of these dioramas will come into play as DelGaudio weaves simple but mesmerizing tales about a pivotal moment from his childhood, an encounter he had with a man in a bar, how our perceptions can be clouded depending on our frame of mind or even the time of day and how a seemingly innocuous object such as the aforementioned brick can take on great meaning in a certain context.

Ah, but where’s the magic in all this? Glad you asked! DelGaudio is breathtakingly good at card tricks, good old-fashioned card tricks, pulling off feats that would make the late great Ricky Jay proud. He also takes the show beyond the borders of the theater when he asks audience members to name a well-known but random intersection in the city — and the gold brick that was once stuck in that windowpane appears on that very corner. (We see filmed snippets of attendees post-show at various intersections in New York City, laughing in delight when they see that yep, there’s the gold brick. One supposes DelGaudio could have an army of assistants, each with a gold brick in hand, posted throughout the city, ready to deposit said brick, but that seems like a stretch.)

In the most astonishing trick of all, DelGaudio invites an audience member onto the stage, has them choose from a handful of sealed letters, and invites them to read the letter while everyone looks on. In show after show, the chosen audience member is reduced to tears while reading a letter from a close relative or dear friend -- a letter with details so specific the reader has no doubt it’s authentic.

This has to be some kind of hypnosis at work, yes?

I don’t know. Maybe. I’m not sure.

See the film for yourselves and get back to me. I’m not sure we’re going to be able to figure it out, but that’s the great thing about such magic, right? 

Copyright 2020 Chicago Sun-Times

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J A N UA RY 31, 2021

FOOD

Hearty, wholesome dishes to support immune systems

I

f feeding your family wholesome meals is a daily goal, keep in mind you can serve up tasty foods that also feed your immune system by including ingredients like mushrooms. With their earthy flavor, mushrooms — like many other fruits and vegetables — can also play a positive role in supporting a healthy immune system.

Studies at Oregon State University concluded there are a variety of micronutrients important for supporting a healthy immune system.

Consider that three of these nutrients (vitamin D, selenium and B vitamins) can be found in mushrooms.

Provided here are recipes for a Grilled Portobello Gyro with Yogurt Dill Sauce and Roasted Chicken Thighs and Veggies with Mushroom Orzo Risotto.

Find more ways to add mushrooms to family meals at mushroomcouncil. com. (Family Features) 

Grilled Portobello Gyros with Yogurt Dill Sauce Recipe courtesy of Emily Weeks of “Zen and Spice” Cook time: 15 minutes Total time: 25 minutes Servings: 4 4 portobello mushrooms 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika 2 yellow bell peppers, sliced

Yogurt Dill Sauce

1 English cucumber, grated 1 cup whole-milk

Greek yogurt 1/2 cup sour cream 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil 1/2 small lemon, juice only 2 cloves garlic, minced 1 teaspoon salt 1 tablespoon minced fresh dill 4 pita breads or naan 2 tomatoes, thinly sliced 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced 1/2 head green lettuce

crumbled feta cheese (optional) Remove stems from mushrooms and brush caps with wet towel. Using spoon, carefully scrape out gills. Slice mushrooms into 1/4-inch pieces and place in medium bowl with olive oil, oregano and smoked paprika.

Preheat indoor grill pan over medium-high heat. Add mushrooms and peppers; grill, tossing occasionally, until tender, 5-7 minutes.

To make yogurt dill sauce: Squeeze grated cucumber in clean towel to remove excess liquid. Add to large bowl with yogurt, sour cream, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, salt and dill.

Stir to combine.

To serve, place mushrooms and pep­pers in middle of pita bread. Top with tomatoes, onion, lettuce, feta, if desired, and big dollop of yogurt dill sauce. 

Roasted Chicken Thighs and Veggies with Mushroom Orzo Risotto Recipe courtesy of Emily Weeks of “Zen and Spice” Cook time: 50 minutes Total time: 1 hour, 10 minutes Servings: 4

Pat chicken dry. Season with salt and pepper, to taste. In large skillet over medium-high heat, melt butter. Sear chicken until browned, 4-5 minutes on each side.

In large bowl, toss mushrooms, zucchini, carrots, garlic and rosemary. On large baking sheet, spread vegetables. Nestle chicken into vegetables. Drizzle with butter and juices from pan.

Chicken

8 boneless, skinless chicken thighs

salt, to taste

pepper, to taste 6 tablespoons unsalted butter 16 ounces crimini mushrooms, quartered 3 zucchini, sliced in half moons 3 large carrots, thinly sliced 4 sprigs fresh rosemary, leaves removed

and roughly chopped 4 cloves garlic, minced

Bake 20 minutes until chicken is cooked through and vegetables are tender.

To make orzo

In small pot over medium-low heat, warm broth.

Using skillet from chicken, add butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add onion, garlic and mushrooms. Cook, stirring occasionally, until onions soften, 3-4 minutes.

Add orzo and black pepper. Stir and cook 2 min­ utes. Add white wine and cook until evaporated, about 1 minute.

Orzo

4 cups chicken or vegetable broth 1 tablespoon unsalted butter 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil 1 small yellow onion, diced 2 garlic cloves, minced 16 ounces crimini mushrooms, finely chopped

1 cup uncooked orzo pasta 1/8 teaspoon black pepper 1/3 cup white wine 1/3 cup shredded Parmesan cheese

To make chicken

Preheat oven to 450 F.

Add warm broth to orzo 2/3 cup at a time, stirring until liquid is absorbed. Repeat with remaining broth, waiting until last batch is absorbed before adding more. Remove from heat and stir in Parmesan.

Serve in individual bowls with chicken and roasted vegetables atop mushroom orzo risotto. 

J A N UA RY 31, 2021

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 1 1

H E A LT H & B E A U T Y

Improve your mental health with better sleep

F

or some, the holidays may be the happiest season of all, but for others the hectic pace and endless to-do lists can take a real toll on their mental health. This year, the impact is heightened by a global health pandemic.

According to a survey from Mattress Firm, more than 60 million Americans say COVID-19 has worsened their quality of sleep, and those losing sleep are often seeing their mental well-being and healthy habits worsen.

Nearly half of respondents said COVID-19 has increased their worries and prevented them from falling or staying asleep at night, with 41% reported their poor sleep has a negative impact on their daily lives.

“It’s no surprise that when our minds are full or our hearts are heavy, our mental health tends to suffer,” said Dr. Sujay Kansagra, a sleep health expert for Mattress Firm. “What many

acknowledge you had a good virtual catch-up with a colleague or enjoyed a new recipe or workout class. Listing your positive experiences at night can help you maintain a positive frame of mind as you unwind for the day.

people don’t realize is that mental health struggles also affect sleep, and adequate rest is a key component of maintaining and improving your mental health.”

If stress and worry are preventing you from getting a good night of sleep, try these ideas from Kansagra to help improve your mental state and ease your body into rest.

Think positively Every night before going to bed, list three good things from your day. They don’t have to be amazing things, just three positive aspects of your day. For example,

Create a to-do list This technique is for those who mentally work through their list of pending responsibilities before bed. In a fast-paced world, sometimes lying in bed is the first time you have to actually think about what’s on your list. By creating a list of tasks, you can prevent yourself from thinking about them excessively before bed and throughout the night.

Try progressive relaxation This involves taking slow, deep breaths and slowly tensing the muscles in your body for a few seconds then relaxing them. Start at your feet and work your way up the body. This technique can help you relax and decompress after a long day.

Give yourself a break Especially if you’re working from home or tackling

a lot of seasonal tasks, it’s easy to keep yourself busy up until the minute you fall into bed. However, your mind may still be whirling from all that activity. Build in a few minutes before bed each night to let your mind rest, whether it’s spending a few minutes with a good book, practicing meditation or sipping on a cup of sleepytime tea.

Appeal to your senses Being mindful of how your senses react to various stimuli can play a role in your ability to drift off to sleep. Some people need silence; others benefit from ambient sound. Certain scents can be soothing and make good choices for essential oil diffusers, such as lavender oil.

Whether it’s your family, your health or general stress that’s keeping you up, find time in your day to give yourself some grace.

Find more tips for better sleep at MattressFirm.com. (Family Features) 

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1 2 · S U N D AYS I G N A L

J A N UA RY 31, 2021

HOME

On-trend kitchen and bath upgrades

K

itchens and bathrooms remain among the top picks for homeowners looking to upgrade because their functional contributions to the household can’t be overstated and they typically provide high return on investment.

If you’re considering a renovation project for either in-demand space, consider some of these on-trend ideas from Doug King, CR, MBA, owner of King Contracting, Inc. and president of the National Association of the Remodeling Industry.

Kitchen Bigger functional spaces Not only do many kitchen renovations result in added square footage, they also add practical features to make living and entertaining more comfortable and enjoyable. When it comes to physical space, a popular choice is removing or relocating walls to make the room larger.

This added space can be instrumental in adding an island or peninsula

for bar seating, which many homeowners view as a necessity when it comes to entertaining. Other features

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like icemakers, tall wine refrigerators and walk-in pantries are high on the frequent request list. Another growing trend is a kitchen designed for two, complete with a second full-size sink, dishwasher and microwave drawer, along with a larger island.

Clever storage Making the most of storage space has always been a top desire, and homeowners are getting increasingly clever about how to maximize their cabinetry. Drawer organizers are in high demand, along with pull-out waste baskets that hide recycling bins within.

Another popular approach is large base cabinets with pivoting shelving mechanisms for storing large items like mixers and other taller countertop appliances. Making use of every inch of space is common; even the toe-kick area for drawers are proving useful to hold smaller items or put kid-friendly essentials in easy reach.

Feature-rich appliances Appliance manufacturers are adding all kinds of bells and whistles, and those features are increasingly attractive to homeowners. Upper-end appliances are becoming more mainstream as homeowners discover features the more expensive models offer for ease of use and comfort. Larger freezer and column-style refrigerators are especially growing in popularity.

Bathroom Spa-like setting One long-term trend that is still in top demand for the master bath is design that mimics a serene spa. This plays out in cooler colors like white, blues and grays.

Glass tiles are taking on a bigger role with many homeowners using them as artistic focal points in showers or opting for pebble-like tiles that spill from walls onto the floor.

Upscale practicality Little touches that may have once gone unnoticed are now trending as opportunities to add elements of style. For example, curbless showers with offset lineal drains are preferred to traditional centered circular versions. Similarly, homeowners are upping the ante with lighting such as fixtures integrated with fans and mirrors, and even below floating vanities for ambient light at night.

A splash of tech Whether it’s used to control smart features or simply add entertainment like TV or soothing music, technology has a permanent place on the list of bathroom trends. The available features make it easy to make a full escape from the daily grind of life.

Find more inspiration and trending ideas for your next home improvement project at remodelingdoneright.com.

(Family Features) 

J A N UA RY 31, 2021

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 1 3

SENIORLIVING

Managing high cholesterol

H

igh cholesterol is one of the major controllable risk factors for coronary heart disease, heart attack and stroke, but typically shows no symptoms. Understanding the role cholesterol plays, potential risk factors and how to manage it are important aspects of protecting your heart health.

LDL cholesterol (low-density lipoprotein) is considered “bad” cholesterol because it contributes to fat buildup in the arteries while HDL cholesterol (high-density lipoprotein) is considered “good” cholesterol as it can carry LDL cholesterol away from the arteries to be broken down and passed from the body.

The LDL cholesterol level is important to monitor and is optimal when it is less than 100 for otherwise healthy people, according to the American Heart Association, which recommends adults age 20 or older should have their cholesterol and other risk factors checked every 4-6 years by their primary care physician with a simple blood test.

Cholesterol management is not one size fits all, so those who have already experienced a heart attack or stroke, or have family history of high cholesterol, may need to have their cholesterol levels and risk factors checked more often and may need to make lifestyle changes or take prescribed medication to help manage cholesterol levels.

Make informed decisions about managing your cholesterol levels and overall health with these tips from the American Heart Association’s “Check.

Change. Control. Cholesterol” program, nationally supported by Amgen: Assess your risk Your health care professional can help determine your risk for a cardiovascular event like heart attack or stroke and help manage your cholesterol as one aspect of preventive care.

Your medical and family history and your lifestyle provide important clues about your risk level. Risk is elevated for people who have had a heart attack or stroke; blockages in the arteries of the heart, neck or legs; chronic inflammatory disease; kidney disease; or other medical concerns.

Your health care professional will also consider your age, sex, whether you

have diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol and if you smoke.

Your diet, physical activity levels, alcohol intake and any drugs or supplements you’ve been taking factor into your risk level, as well.

Eat a heart-healthy diet From a dietary standpoint, one of the best ways to lower your cholesterol is to avoid foods with saturated fat and trans fat. Limit saturated fat to 5-6% of your daily calories and avoid trans fat, which means limiting intake of processed or fatty meats and full-fat dairy products. Choose low-fat dairy products and lean proteins instead.

A heart-healthy diet emphasizes fruits, vegetables, nuts, legumes, whole grains, lean vegetable or animal proteins and fish while limiting things like trans fats, sodium, processed meats, refined carbohydrates and sugary foods and beverages. Eating this way may also help increase your fiber intake, which can help lower cholesterol levels by as much as 10%.

Be physically active A sedentary lifestyle lowers HDL cholesterol. Just 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise a week is enough to help lower both LDL cholesterol and high blood pressure. Consider mixing up the options to keep your exercise routine engaging and prevent boredom. Try activities like brisk walking, swimming, bicycling or dancing.

Quit smoking and avoid secondhand smoke Smoking lowers HDL cholesterol. What’s more, when a person with unhealthy cholesterol levels also smokes, his or her risk of coronary heart disease increases more than it would otherwise. Smoking also compounds other risk factors for heart disease, such as high blood pressure and diabetes. By quitting, smokers can lower their cholesterol levels and help protect their arteries. Nonsmokers should avoid exposure to secondhand smoke as much as possible.

Lose weight Being overweight or obese tends to raise LDL cholesterol and lower HDL cholesterol. A weight loss of as little as 10% can help improve your cholesterol numbers.

Find more resources and tools to help manage your heart health and cholesterol at heart.org. (Family Features) 

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J A N UA RY 31, 2021

R E A L E S TAT E

The differences between real estate agents, brokers

R

eal estate transactions often involve significant amounts of money. As a result, it’s common for both buyers and sellers to enlist the services of a host of professionals with real estate experience.

Both buyers and sellers may work with real estate agents or brokers when buying or selling their homes.

Agents and brokers are not one and the same, and there are some important distinctions between the two.

Real estate agent

According to Realtor.com, real estate agents are professionally licensed individuals who can help both buyers and sellers. Agents also may help property owners rent their homes.

The amount of training real estate agents need to earn their licenses varies by state.

Once individuals finish their required training, they must take a written exam that tests their knowledge of federal real estate laws and

about legal issues in regard to real estate. The legal issues brokers may learn about include brokerage operations, real estate investments, construction, and property management.

Requirements vary, but Realtor.com notes that brokers often must work as licensed real estate agents for no less than three years before they can earn their broker’s license.

There is more than one type of real estate broker: general principles as well as the laws specific to the state in which they want to become licensed.

Only after passing this exam do individuals become recognized real estate agents. Investopedia notes that achieving agent status is the starting point for most real estate professionals.

Real estate broker

Real estate brokers are those professionals who have continued their education past the agent level and obtained a broker’s license. Each state

has its own requirements in regard to becoming a licensed broker, but education and examinations are necessary regardless of where a person lives.

Realtor.com notes that the extra coursework to earn a broker’s license focuses on various topics, including ethics, contracts, taxes, and insurance. Agents may learn about these topics as well, but coursework for prospective brokers goes into more depth than it does at the agent level.

Brokers also will study and learn

• Principal/designated brokers oversee all agents at a given firm and ensure the agents act in compliance with all real estate laws.

• Managing brokers tend to focus on the hiring and training of agents.

• Associate brokers have their broker’s license but work directly under a managing broker.

Real estate agents and brokers can help buyers, sellers and investors successfully navigate real estate transactions, and each can serve their clients in different ways. (MC) 

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J A N UA RY 31, 2021

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 1 5

Brush up on pet dental health this month

C

ompanionship, unconditional love and security are just some of the perks of pet ownership.

People who bring pets into their homes understand that a certain commitment comes with becoming a pet owner. Pet owners recognize they need to provide food, shelter and basic healthcare for their pets, but they may not recognize the role dental health plays in helping pets be as healthy as possible.

The American Animal Hospital Association notes that dental disease can start early in a pet’s life. By the age of three, most dogs and cats will have some level of dental disease. If dental disease is left untreated, pets may suffer from inflammation, infection and even chronic pain.

The animal health and wellness site VetStreet says that more than 70% of cats and dogs over age four are affected by periodontal disease. Bacteria from poor dental health may

PETS

Invest in other dental products

Recognizing the signs of pet dental disease and taking steps to alleviate it can keep pets healthy.

spread to other organs and cause illnesses. Recognizing the signs of pet dental disease and taking steps to alleviate it can keep pets healthy.

Acknowledge bad breath

Bad breath is not something that comes with the territory of having a pet. Odor from a dog or cat’s mouth may indicate a problem such as stomatitis, a common feline condition

that causes inflammation to the oral tissues and gums.

Start brushing pets’ teeth

Brushing a pet’s teeth can promote good oral health and potentially prevent serious problems along the way.

Always use a pet-safe toothpaste, and talk to a veterinarian about a special dental diet.

Seek products that receive the approval of the Veterinary Oral Health Council to help maintain a pet’s oral hygiene. Avoid products like synthetic bones, antlers and other animal bones, which can fracture an animal’s teeth.

Work with your veterinarian

Vets typically use X-rays to diagnose dental disease, as teeth may appear normal to the naked eye but still be diseased. Anesthesia is frequently used in dental evaluations and cleanings. It makes it safer and less stressful for the animal and the vet. Speak with your vet about the frequency of dental cleanings and care, asking any questions you may have about the safety and efficacy of anesthesia use.

Pet owners must prioritize their furry friends’ oral health. Though often overlooked, pets’ dental health is integral to their overall health.

(MC) 

Got picky pooches? Some solutions for finicky eaters

T

he image of a dog devouring a bowl of food is a familiar one for dog owners. It’s easy to see dogs as indiscriminate eaters, and many breeds will happily inhale any and as much food as their owners set before them.

However, many picky pooches will turn up their noses at even the most savory selections.

According to “The Old Farmer’s Almanac,” roughly 40% of American households have at least one dog. One component of pet ownership is providing quality sustenance But what to do when your dog goes on a hunger strike?

Why dogs refuse to eat

Owners of dogs that consistently refuse to eat may wonder just what is going on in that canine brain. The American Kennel Club says various factors may be at play.

is necessary in such instances, as dogs may need some time before they acclimate to a new diet.

Handling picky eaters

Experts cannot agree on a single strategy to treat pups who are picky eaters. Pet parents can ask their vets and experiment. Here are some suggestions to try, courtesy of the pet food company Dawgie Bowl.

• Dogs do not crave variety; they live for consistency. Do not change the dog’s food frequently or because you feel they need a buffet.

• Exercise your dog more, as this can stimulate metabolism and appetite.

• Pick up food after a certain period of time, such as 20 minutes. The dog will learn to eat during that period or face waiting until the next feeding.

Illness Dogs may refuse to eat if they have a virus or do not feel well. A trip to the vet may be necessary. Similarly, medications can adversely affect appetite.

• Reward eating after the meal has been consumed so the dog associates eating with good attention.

Do not provide any attention to sad, puppy dog eyes and never yell at the dog for not eating.

Emotional changes Refusal to eat may be a symptom of a major life change, such as a move, home renovation or the arrival of a baby.

• Dogs can go a few days without eating, particularly if the pooch is drinking water and showing no signs of illness. So don’t fret. A hungry, stubborn dog will eventually eat.

Food changes Dogs like routine, and when their food formula changes they may not eat. This can occur if a vet or a health professional suggests changing a dog’s diet due to a health issue. Patience

A picky nature is something pet owners must contend with at times. Patience can help get dogs back on a solid eating schedule.(MC) 

One component of pet ownership is providing quality sustenance. But what to do when your dog goes on a hunger strike? There are a few things to consider if the you need to visit a vet or if they are just finicky.

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J A N UA RY 31, 2021

GARDENING

Winter gardening that you can do indoors

By Jane Gates Signal Staff Writer

garden projects you’d like to build, like dog houses, trellises, storage sheds or DIY fire pits. If you like to build, you should be able to find help to create just about any structure you could want for your landscape.

W

hen the weather is too chilly, windy or wet to work outside, it doesn't mean you can't still do gardening in comfort. Here are some quick tips on outdoor gardening you can do while indoors.

• Start seeds indoors. Fill seed trays with soil and get a jump on the gardening season by starting an early planting of the more delicate half-hardy vegetables and flowers you want in your garden. It isn’t too early to start some of the half-hardy plants so they will be big enough to set out in April.

• Wander around the house and check your houseplants for insect pests, dead leaves, cracked pots or other problems you may not have noticed. Mealy bugs, aphids, whitefly and scale are nasty sap-sucking insects that can show up on the delicate growth tips or hiding on the underside of indoor plants.

Washing the affected part of the plant with soapy water will help. Or, spray with an insecticidal soap such as Neem or other organic pesticide.

For stubborn sap-sucking insects with a natural coating that protects them from these eco-friendly contact insecticides, you will need to use a systemic insecticide that is poured into the soil and taken up by the roots so the pests will drink the poison.

Scale and mealy bugs will require this kind of treatment. (Keep children

• Visit garden centers and sites or plan on visiting a regional garden show to get ideas for new plants, garden furnishings, non-living permeable paving materials or landscape designs.

Pepper seedlings. Get an early start on edibles and flowers by starting seeds indoors.

and pets away from treated plants and soil!)

• Catch up on reading gardening articles or books to increase your knowledge or find out about the newest ideas and plant varieties.

Apart from my own book, (pardon the shameless self-promotion!) there are garden and landscape books being released all the time. Gardening is a living project so plants, weather, soil, new tools, materials and ideas are a part of this ever-growing industry!

• Take some local gardening classes, watch videos and read blog topics that interest you.

• Grab those garden magazines and catalogs you've been meaning to check out for articles of interest and some new (or resurrected heirloom)

plant releases. You know you've been meaning to get around to checking them out anyway, right?

• Sketch out plans of your outdoor garden and areas where you want to make changes. Getting things planned out on paper will save you from making a lot of mistakes. If you prefer working online, there are some inexpensive design programs available.

You can lay out your own ideas, meet with a professional to help guide you, or hire someone to do the job for you.

• Re-pot plants that are root-bound.

These can be potted plants from indoors or outside. Giving these plants more space to spread their roots come springtime will give them a whole new lease on life.

• Investigate plans and designs for

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• Start a miniature dish garden to grow indoors or out. You can plant a whole landscape in a container by using tiny accessories — furniture, houses, rocks, sculptures — creating small waterfalls, and planting with small-leafed plants that grow with a low profile. There are kits you can buy to get yourself started, or just get creative with small plants from your local garden center and by putting together materials from a craft store.

Or how about recycling that piece of junk in your garage, shed or back yard into an artistic container?

Too many gardens are turning into dusty havens for dead weeds or seas of boring gravel as some gardeners give up on having a reasonably easily maintained, lovely landscape with the challenging, shifting weather extremes.

But don’t give up! There are many new plants, designs and materials that can creatively counter changes and make the garden the outdoor home you always wanted. Use inclement winter days to catch up on all the new possibilities!

Hopefully, this list will get you thinking. There are plenty more jobs you can do for your outdoor garden even if you are confined indoors by the weather. Some of them can be practical and some can be just plain fun. See how many more ideas you can come up with on your own.

Gardening doesn't have to happen outdoors only when the weather is nice For more information about gardening in the Santa Clarita Valley, visit Jane Gates on YouTube at https://you tube.com/user/Janieg8s. 

J A N UA RY 31, 2021

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K I D S & FA M I LY

Donna’s Day: Creative Family Fun

Scare away monsters with a bedtime night-light chaun? Or, maybe a puppy or bunny with felt ears that stick out in funny angles.

By Donna Erickson Signal Contributing Writer

J

ust when it seems your young child has drifted off to sleep for the night, a plaintive voice echoes through the hallway.

“Mom! I can’t sleep. I think there’s a monster in my closet!” So you check the closet carefully.

“Nope, honey. No monsters.” But it doesn’t help much. More drama kicks in.

“I want a glass of water … I can’t find my teddy bear … Will you leave the light on, Mom, pleeeze?”

Whether it’s anxiety about school, monsters in the closet or navigating the change to daylight saving time, sometimes children need extra comfort to put closure on the day. Well, here’s instructions for a very special nightlight that your child can make and use. He can even switch it on and off without leaving his bed.

Here’s what you’ll need:

Jane, 7, shows off a bedtime nightlight that she made with a paper bag, craft supplies and a flashlight.

Before your child begins making the bedtime friend, have him think about what he wants it to be. An angel? Ladybug? Goofy alien? Lepre-

Standard-size brown or plain colored lunch bag Craft supplies to create your character’s face, such as construction or tissue paper, yarn, pipe cleaners, charms, ribbon, glitter, beads, etc.

Scissors Household glue Hole punch (optional) An inexpensive standard-size, plastic, lightweight flashlight with batteries Rubber band

Here’s the fun: 1. First, cut out craft foam sheets or poster board in eye, nose and mouth shapes. Cut holes in the middle of the eyes and mouth pieces to eventually allow light to shine through. Glue the

features to the front of the bag. When dry, an adult may use small, sharp scissors to cut out the center of the eyes and mouth on the bag.

2. Then add details for personality.

Glue on rickrack eyebrows, attach lightweight junk jewelry earrings or pipe-cleaner antennae, depending on what you are creating. Outline lips with shiny beads or glitter. And don’t forget the hair -- add braided yarn and fashion a style. It’s also fun to use a hole punch to make additional features or patterns on the bag that will be revealed when the flashlight is turned on.

3. When complete, carefully slip it over the top of the flashlight and secure with a rubber band, just above the switch. The nightlight will be on and off bedtime duty when you say so!

TIP For older kids, it can be a simple whimsical glow to have on their bedstand in the evening. Or how about using it to light up a tent when camping this summer?

Find more recipes and family fun at www.donnaerickson.com. Write to Donna at Info@donnaerickson.com 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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Opinion

J A N UA RY 31, 2021

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

An Immigrant’s Plea My family immigrated to the U.S. because of the freedom and opportunity it offered. We were amazed by the blessings of free speech, religion and association. We were delighted to see a church and a mosque across from each other in Texas. One would loan the other their parking lot on Fridays and Sundays, respectively. This was amazing to us as we came from a place where religious disagreements often led to violence. We were amazed that political views could be exchanged with the understanding, “I may not agree with your opinion, but I will defend your right to say it.” Where we came from, dissent was often viewed as national threat and quelled. Any financial, legal or other resource to dissent would be threatened and bullied into a boycott. Livelihoods and lives would be lost.

Then we witnessed 9/11. We were shocked and horrified that this could happen in this land of freedom and peace. The loss of lives was beyond tragic. In the aftermath, we saw the tendency in mainstream media to paint all Muslims with the broad brush of extremism. I remember CNN clips of dancing Arabs, feeding a narrative that most Muslims were celebrating this horrific event. I feared my adopted country would turn on me. It helped when President George Bush warned against painting all Muslims in this light. It helped when my colleagues offered support and protection if the need arose. Fortunately, none did. I was not doxed, harassed or fired from my job.

There was, however, a dialogue to better understand each other’s religious and political views (me Muslim liberal, my friends Christian conservative). My faith in American decency and freedom was preserved, but my trust in mainstream media took a hit.

I appreciate how important our freedoms are. I see myself as a classical liberal who leans conservative. The violence Jan. 6 at the Capitol was horrifying and heartbreaking. Those who engaged in violent acts should be held accountable. It does not represent me or the overwhelming majority of conservatives. In the aftermath I see the same tendency in media to paint millions of people with the same broad brush of extremism as they did post-9/11. It is worse this time as social media has amplified anger and accelerated response.

The monopolies in the rapid distribution of information have exerted their power to censor platforms, ideas, news, or individuals they don’t agree with. They cut marketplace, financial and legal resources for those they have censored. These tactics are eerily reminiscent of the country I came from and I have seen what this can lead to.

The founding fathers created the First Amendment because they knew it is not easy or realistic for one entity or group to decide what is acceptable. We are all subject to our own biases. Think of how arbitrary some lockdown rules appear when a movie studio can set up food tents next to a shut-down restaurant. Speech restrictions appear arbitrary in a similar manner. Twitter, Facebook, Apple, Google and Amazon are private companies but operate almost as utility providers to the flow of information. Their regulating speech is almost like an oil company dictating where we can drive.

My family came to this country to seek freedom. I urge you all in this moment of anger and grief to not fall for the tendency to be divided and restrict freedom, but to come together and preserve the rights that make the U.S. the freest nation in the world.

Naheed Virani Stevenson Ranch

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

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

In Search of Ethical Fitness

By David Hegg

B

ack in the ancient world of the 1980s, I served as a spiritual advisor to a university football team.

Basically, I taught Bible studies, mentored many of the players, counseled them through major life decisions, and generally attempted to lay for them a foundation of morality, integrity and industry.

What I discovered has stuck with me ever since and been proven over and over. When adversity hits, and/or when temptation to evil presents itself, you had better be ethically fit, ethically strong in order to respond in a way that you won’t later regret.

I once asked a solidly built linebacker why he spent so much time in the weight room.

He responded, “I want to be strong enough to stop a 225-pound fullback when he comes my way at full speed.” Simply put, he recognized the importance of being physically strong to play the game of football.

The same is true in the game of life.

Unless you have strong ethical muscles, properly built and strengthened, daily small compromises will be your undoing. When adversity hits, and you need the courage of a strong belief system, you will most likely be flattened and discouraged because you lack a strong foundation for hope. When the opportunity presents itself to give rein to your secret, unethical desires, your weak ethical muscles will be unable to restrain your passion as you pursue lust and greed rather than stay true to your ethical commitments.

As a pastor I spend a bulk of my time helping people who find themselves in the pits of discouragement, despair and hopelessness. As we all know, this world is broken. Things don’t go as planned. People disappoint and hurt us. Accidents happen, sometimes with life-altering results. Health is at risk, and we don’t know what tomorrow will bring. The simple truth is life is hard, pain is real and adversity is coming if not already here. So, the question isn’t how do we avoid all the pain and regret, but how can we prepare ourselves to fight through it well?

Over the years I have discovered a horrible paradox. When adversity hits, when relationships are fractured through sinful acts,

when a series of failures leave us despairing and hopeless, what we need is a strong sense of ethical purpose and hope.

Yet, in far too many cases, it was the lack of a strong ethical consistency – ethical muscles!

– that led to the fractures and failures in the first place! I find myself encouraging people to think rightly, act rightly, and display humility and courage when we both know it was the abandonment of those things that caused them to get run over by life. In cases like marital infidelity, what is needed to mend the relationship are the very ethical muscles they incrementally neglected to the point where they willingly exchanged faithfulness for the pleasures of sin.

If the problem is a weak ethical commitment, what’s the solution? I propose it is analogous to the football player who hits the weight room to build up muscles he knows he will need on game day. And since we don’t know when “game day” will be, it is even more important to construct and consistently strengthen through reflection, personal reformation and daily reaffirmation, a solid personal ethical system built on moral grounds. Figure out what kind of person you intend to be. Build standards to safeguard your integrity. Then be consistent in living the life you will hold yourself accountable to live, no matter what game day brings.

Of course, I recommend taking a look at the worldview – the ethical system of belief and action – presented in the Bible. After all, there’s a reason President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris took their oath of office with a hand on the Bible. There’s good stuff in there that has ordered successful lives for thousands of years. But you’ve got to be all in, submitting your life to the One who gives and rewards faithful living.

Now, how about we hit the ethical weight room and do all we can to make 2021 a year where we persevere in integrity, hope and good will. That may be the only real solution to the despair-driven anger and violence that is becoming all too common in our day.

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

J A N UA RY 31, 2021

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TECHNOLOGY

Alerting others in an emergency

E

mergencies occur every day.

Data from the 2016 National Hospital Ambulatory Medical Care Survey found around 145 million emergency department visits are made in the United States each year. Of those visits, 42.2 million are injury-related.

While no one wants to imagine themselves in dangerous situations, being realistic about the likelihood of being in an emergency can help people safeguard themselves against such situations.

One way to prepare for emergencies is to make sure you and potential first responders or medical personnel know who to call should you be unable to communicate. Likely many things in the digital age, the process of indicating emergency contacts has changed.

Mobile phone ICE

All people are urged to designate an “in case of emergency” contact on their mobile phones. This way a first responder or other emergency personnel can notify the appropriate people in emergency situations. In 2004, after research from Vodafone found that fewer than 25% of people carried any emergency contact details on their persons, a campaign was started by Bob Brotchie of the East of England Ambulance Service in the United Kingdom to start providing emergency contact information.

Brotchie urged mobile phone manufacturers to support the campaign by adding an ICE heading to phone number lists of all new mobile phones. Emergency contact infor-

mation also should be provided for school children and with a person’s employer and updated regularly.

Medical alert

Emergencies may arise due to life-threatening medical conditions.

If a person is in a situation in which they are unconscious or unable to speak, a medical alert card or bracelet can help first responders provide medical care more quickly.

Bracelets and other jewelry, like those offered from the MedicAlert® Foundation, are engraved with critical information for conditions like autism, allergies, dementia, diabetes, Alzheimer’s, or epilepsy. They can provide peace of mind and speak for the person wearing one in an emergency.

Health care proxy

People should consider naming a health care proxy. This can be any whom they trust. The proxy can make health care decisions for another if he or she is unable to speak.

Naming a proxy ensures that one gets the healthcare he or she prefers in the event they cannot communicate their wishes.

Sometimes healthcare proxies are merged with living wills as one advanced directive document, according to the Medicare Rights Center.

Preparing for emergency situations, however unlikely they may seem, includes employing various strategies to help emergency responders and medical personnel in the event you are incapable of communicating with them. (MC) 

CROSSWORD TIME

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