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For example, keeping your skin healthy and glowing starts from the inside out by eating and drinking healthy foods and beverages that nourish your body’s largest organ and promote healthy skin cells. Additionally, studies show certain foods, such as fresh, juicy grapes, may help protect healthy skin even when exposed to UV light, which is known to damage skin cells.
A study published in the journal “Antioxidants,” in which people consumed 2 1/4 cups of grapes every day for two weeks, showed increased resistance to sunburn and reduced markers of UV damage at the cellular level. This study reinforced previous and similar findings published in the “Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology.” Grapes are also a hydrating food with 82% water content; hydration is essential to healthy skin.
Along with snacking on fresh, delicious California grapes, consider these everyday ways you can keep your skin safe from the sun’s rays.
Most experts recommend avoiding the sun at the height of the day, between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m., when its rays are at full strength. That doesn’t mean you can’t be outside - just seek shade as often as possible while enjoying the warm summer air.
Drinking water and staying hydrated is important year-round, but especially when it’s hot and you’re more likely to lose water content through sweat. Keep your body full of moisture with simple and delicious Grape-Infused Waters. For a zesty kick, try Grape, Ginger and Lime that combines the sweetness of grapes with the zing of ginger and lime, or Grape, Lemon and Mint, offering a bright and invigorating blend of citrus and mint. Enter your Zen state with a mellow, spa-like sip from Grape, Cucumber and Mint.
For a cool, hydrating snack, try freezing grapes. Simply rinse, pat dry, remove from the stems and freeze for 2 hours in a single layer on a sheet pan. You can even enjoy them as flavorful ice cube replacements in these easy-to-prepare, flavorful beverages.
While you’re enjoying the sunshine, layer up with a generous application of 30 SPF or higher sunscreen every 1-2 hours. Wear lightweight, longsleeve shirts; wide-brimmed hats; sunglasses; and other protective clothing to reduce sun exposure, which can lead to wrinkles, age spots and other health problems, including an increased risk of skin cancer.
Visit GrapesFromCalifornia.com for more delicious recipes and information on grapes and health.
Servings 4
Grape, Ginger and Lime
1 heaping cup Grapes from California, muddled, plus additional for serving (optional)
5 quarter-size slices peeled fresh ginger, muddled
4 lime slices
4 cups water
ice
Grape, Lemon and Mint
1 heaping cup Grapes from California, muddled, plus additional for serving (optional)
3 lemon slices
3 large stems fresh mint
4 cups water
ice
Grape, Cucumber and Mint
1 heaping cup Grapes from California, muddled (plus additional for serving (optional) 6-8 thin slices cucumber, halved
3 large stems fresh mint
4 cups water
ice
To make grape, ginger and lime water: In pitcher, place grapes, ginger and lime slices. Add water and stir well. Cover and chill overnight. Before serving, stir well and pour into ice-filled glasses, adding grapes to each glass, if desired. To make grape, lemon and mint water In pitcher, place grapes, lemon slices and mint. Add water and stir well. Cover and chill overnight.
Before serving, stir well and pour into ice-filled glasses, adding grapes to each glass, as desired.
To make grape, cucumber and mint water: In pitcher, place grapes, cucumber and mint. Add water and stir well. Cover and chill overnight.
Before serving, stir well and pour into ice-filled glasses, adding grapes to each glass, as desired. (Family Features)
By Michele E. Buttelman Signal Staff Writer
It’s August, the beginning of the Santa Clarita Valley’s historically hottest time of the year.
The summer months of June, July and August have the highest recorded temperatures annually according to the National Weather Service, with August at the top of that list.
Longtime SCV residents could argue that August, September and October might tally higher daytime temperatures than June, July and August. But, however you look at it, August is the perfect time to escape the SCV heat and head out on a road trip to seek “cool California.”
To escape the summer heat, visit coastal cities such as San Francisco, San Diego and Santa Barbara, or head to higher elevations like Lake Tahoe or Yosemite National Park.
Remember when heading out on your road trip to the coast, sometimes just a short 20-minutes inland you’ll find temperatures climbing back up to the triple digits so try to stay as close to the water as possible.
Here are a few road trips that you might try this summer.
Point Lobos State Natural Reserve
27830 CA-1, Carmel 93923
Info www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=571
With an average high temperature of 69 degrees in August and no rain days, Point Lobos might be the top road trip destination for SCV residents seeking to escape summer’s blast furnace.
Point Lobos State Reserve contains headlands, coves and rolling meadows. The offshore area forms one of the richest underwater habitats in the world popular with divers. Wildlife includes seals, sea lions and sea otters.
Thousands of seabirds also make the reserve their home. Hiking trails follow the shoreline and lead to hidden coves. The area used to be the home of a turn-of-the-century whaling and abalone industry. A small cabin from that era still remains on Whaler’s Cove near Carmel.
Enjoy sightseeing, photography, painting, nature study, picnicking, SCUBA diving and jogging.
From the SCV, Point Lobos is a 4 hour 41 minute (294.5 miles) trip via I-5 North and US-101 North.
Samoa Dunes Recreation Area
Jetty Road, Samoa 95564
Info www.blm.gov/visit/samoa-dunes
Sunset on the Samoa Peninsula in Eureka, an area that experiences drizzle, fog and cooler temperatures while the rest of the state bakes, is another beautiful place to visit in August.
In August, the average temperature on the Samoa Peninsula is 59°F, with average highs of 65°F and average lows of 53°F.
The Samoa Peninsula is a narrow strip of land in Northern California that separates Humboldt Bay from the Pacific Ocean. It’s located west of Eureka and is known for its beaches, dunes and the historic Samoa Cookhouse, which is one of the last original lumber camp-style cookhouses. The peninsula is approximately 10 miles long and a mile wide.
It is a popular destination for beachcombing, surfing, fishing, and wildlife viewing.
The Samoa Dunes Recreation Area is located at the south end of the peninsula, offering picnicking, fishing and camping. It was once a seasonal
food-gathering site for the Wiyote Indians and later, during World War II, a Coast Guard surveillance outpost. Today it is a multi-recreational park that also attracts off-highway vehicle enthusiasts.
The State Marine Conservation Area protects more than 13 square miles of marine habitat along the northern end of the peninsula.
From the SCV the trip to Samoa Dunes is 9 hours 38 minutes (622 miles) via I-5 North and US-101 North.
2500 Emerald Bay Road, South Lake Tahoe 96150 Info www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=515
Ringed by the High Sierra Mountains, Lake Valley State Recreation Area features a championship 18-hole golf course. Since the elevation is over 6,000 feet, shots carry farther in the thin mountain air. During August at Lake Valley State Recreation Area, the average temperature ranges from a high of around 75°F during the day to the low 40s°F at night.
By Alicia Doyle Sunday Signal Writer
Santa Clarita boasts a rich tapestry of historical landmarks that reflect its vibrant past.
The Santa Clarita History Center, home to the Edison house, Kingsbury House, Little Red Schoolhouse, Ramona Chapel and Mogul Locomotive, is one of several historical sites that offer visitors a unique journey through California history shaped by frontier pioneers, movie legends and innovations that fueled the Golden State’s growth.
The Santa Clarita History Center, formerly known as Heritage Junction Historic Park, is located at 24101 Newhall Avenue in Newhall within William S. Hart Park, which is now run by the city. The Santa Clarita Historical Society is headquartered at the history center. The center offers visitors an opportunity to step back in time.
Here is some information about just a few of the nine historical locations.
The Edison House was one of several cottages built in the 1920s along present-day Magic Mountain Parkway for operators of Southern California Edison’s Saugus substation. Some of the cottages were destroyed in the 1928 St. Francis Dam disaster. Three were repaired in 1928; nine were rebuilt in 1929.
According to the historical marker, the Edison House is probably one of the 1929 replacements ordered from a “kit home” supplier such as Sears Roebuck or Montgomery Ward. During World War II, artillery guns were placed around the employee cottages. In 1972, Edison sold the property, including buildings, to Newhall Land. All but this one were destroyed in a fire department exercise. The cottage was donated to the Historical Society and moved to Hart Park on January 18 of 1989.
At least eight other markers are within walking distance of the Edison House, including the Kingsburry House, built in 1878 at the southwest corner of today’s Market and Main streets for J.O. Newhall, operator of the Southern Hotel, making it the oldest existing Newhall house.
The house was donated to the Historical Society in 1987.
Charles and Ruth Kingsburry purchased the house in 1911 and a small addition was added for Masonic activities. They were active in the Masons, Eastern Star and Presbyterian Church.
You may have seen references to the Kingsbury House, with one “r.” According to SCVhistory.com, in 2012, local historian Pat Saletore came upon a World War I registration card signed in the man’s own hand. For the record, the name is Kingsburry.
The Little Red Schoolhouse is representative of the type of small school used in mining camps and frontier settlements in the late 1800s. It was obtained in the 1920s by Robert E. Callahan, a collector of Western memorabilia who operated the Mission Village auto park in Culver City.
The schoolhouse was located at Callahan’s Old West Trading Post at 13660 Sierra Highway. It was moved to its permanent location in 1987 along with the Ramona Chapel.
The Ramona Chapel is a small, historic wooden chapel built in the 1920s for Robert E. Callahan’s Mission Village. The chapel was constructed from
salvaged parts and pieces of older churches. It was inspired by Helen Hunt Jackson’s 1884 novel “Ramona,” and serves as a physical homage to the romanticized Southwest depicted in her work.
In 1987, the chapel was relocated from the Old West theme site in Agua Dulce to its current location in Hart Park to preserve it as a part of local history. The building features Western and Native American motifs and contains eight two-seat pews. Over time, the chapel underwent restoration work to maintain its historical appearance, including re-roofing with custom-colored metal shingles in 2019 to keep it weather-tight while preserving its traditional look.
Also nearby is a Mogul Locomotive, which was donated to the Historical Society by Gene Autry in 1981. This 75-ton Mogul 2-6-0 steam locomotive was built in 1900 by Schenectady Locomotive Works of New York. The Southern Pacific Railroad used it on its Yuma-to-Portland line, which passed through the Santa Clarita Valley.
The locomotive ran in Mexico in 1946 and spent its final years in the Southern Pacific’s Tucson di-
The Edison House was probably one of the nine houses rebuilt at the the 1928 St. Francis Dam disaster. It is suspected thta the house was ordered from a “kit home” supplier such as Sears Roebuck or Montgomery Ward. ©JessicaBoyer
The Kingsburry House was built in 1878 at the southwest corner of today’s Market and Main streets for J.O. Newhall, operator of the Southern Hotel. This makes it the oldest existing Newhall house. ©JessicaBoyer
vision. Autry bought it out of retirement in 1957 for Melody Ranch, which he planned to turn into a Western museum.
A 1962 wildfire thwarted his plans. Of 355 Moguls built, only seven survive.
The Saugus Train Station, which just reopened since the pandemic, is considered a significant historic landmark with roots stretching back to the end of the 19th century.
Completed by the Southern Pacific Railroad, the station officially opened on September 1 of 1887, soon after the golden spike was driven at Lang, connecting Los Angeles to San Francisco and, ultimately, the national rail network. The Saugus station became a pivotal junction where the Santa Paula Branch Line met other major Southern Pacific lines, providing connections to the coast, Mojave and Los Angeles.
The Saugus station witnessed significant historical events, most famously the 1929 Saugus Train Robbery. Over the decades, it was witness to the region’s transformation from a rural agricultural area to a bustling suburb. As passenger rail declined in the
late 20th century, the station ceased providing passenger service on April 30, 1971, with the discontinuation of the San Joaquin Daylight line. Southern Pacific ended all operations in 1979, leaving the future of the building uncertain.
Preservation efforts led by local pioneers, including the Santa Clarita Valley Historical Society, saved the historic depot from demolition. In 1980, the building was relocated to William S. Hart Park in Newhall, where it became a museum and a focal point for local history education. The station has since undergone restoration, with the recent reopening featuring displays of authentic equipment and artifacts, and even original Southern Pacific paint colors carefully matched to the era between 1917 and 1958. The depot is now a key part of the History Center, reflecting not only railroad heritage but also the growth of Santa Clarita Valley.
The historical significance of the Saugus Train Station is underlined by its appearances in movies and television — such as the Frank Sinatra film “Suddenly” — its collection of rare Southern Pacific baggage carts, and the efforts by the community to preserve rail heritage for future generations.
Exploring where and how we live and celebrating the people and fabric of the Santa Clarita Valley.
By Ken Striplin Santa Clarita City Manager
With summer coming to a close and kids returning to school, I want to take a moment to remind residents that August is Traffic Safety Month. As the new school year begins, more students will be walking, biking and commuting to school each day, and it’s up to all of us to make sure they get there and back safely.
issuing citations, with riders facing fines over $500 or delays in obtaining a driver’s license. Additionally, many local schools are taking a closer look at how these vehicles are showing up on campus and plan to be more stringent this year in what is and isn’t allowed. For more information, visit BikeSantaClarita.com/Ebikes.
The return of school means more young pedestrians, cyclists and student drivers out during morning and afternoon commutes. For many children, walking or biking to school offers independence and fresh air, but it also presents real risks. Parents are encouraged to walk the route with their children in advance to identify safe crossing points and potential hazards. Students should use sidewalks whenever possible, cross only at marked intersections, keep headphone volume low, avoid phone distractions and make eye contact with drivers before stepping into the road.
Cycling — including e-bikes — continues to grow in popularity among students commuting to school. Helmets are mandatory and students should always ride with the flow of traffic, obey all traffic signals and stay alert to their surroundings.
Not all e-bikes are created equal. A growing number of teens are riding high-powered, throttle-driven e-motorcycles that are often sold online and marketed as e-bikes. Due to the safety risk, the Santa Clarita Valley Sheriff’s Station has stepped up enforcement,
Drivers, too, play a crucial role in keeping students safe. With school buses, drop-off zones and crosswalks seeing heavy use, motorists should reduce speed in school zones, use turn signals and be especially cautious near crosswalks and stoplights. It’s important to remember that children may enter the street unexpectedly and may not always see or hear an approaching vehicle. Drivers must stop when school buses display flashing red lights and may not pass until the stop arm is retracted. Dropoff and pick-up should only occur in designated zones, and children should exit vehicles on the passenger side for their safety.
Back-to-school traffic can be hectic, but a little patience goes a long way. Allow extra time during your morning commute, avoid double parking and follow the directions of school staff at pickup locations. For more information about back-to-school safety and how to be a Heads Up! household, visit SantaClarita.gov/HeadsUp. Here’s to a safe and successful school year ahead.
Ken Striplin is the City Manager for the City of Santa Clarita and can be reached at kstriplin@santaclarita. gov.
t’s no secret that adding greens to your menumorning, noon and night - can go a long way toward healthier eating habits. While most people think of lettuce, kale, spinach, cucumbers and Brussels sprouts, don’t forget avocados are a superfruit you can use to add good fats and great taste to recipes throughout the day.
As a versatile fruit with naturally good fats and nearly 20 vitamins and minerals, avocados have become a household staple. Avocados From Mexico is a national supporter of the American Heart Association’s Healthy for Good Initiative — Eat Smart Program, encouraging people to incorporate a variety of fruits, vegetables and other heart-healthy foods into their meals.
By supporting this initiative, Avocados From Mexico is helping to raise awareness about the importance of making smart nutrition choices. The brand’s “Good Fats Meet Great Taste” campaign, featured at select Kroger locations, highlights the importance of balanced nutrition and fresh food choices as part of an overall heart-healthy lifestyle.
Avocados provide a good source of naturally unsaturated fats, which can be part of a heart-healthy eating pattern when consumed in place of saturated fats. A well-balanced diet that includes nutrient-rich
foods like avocados, whole grains, lean proteins and fiber-rich vegetables can support overall heart health. In addition to good fats, avocados are also a good source of fiber, with 3 grams per one-third of a medium avocado.
If you’re looking for an easy yet tasty way to add more avocados to your family’s menu, this Avocado, Brussels Sprout, Kale and Date Salad provides a delicious introduction to the superfruit. Loaded with greens and fit for sharing with a crowd, you can do your part to bring avocados to your nearest and dearest, neighbors or anyone you’re hosting for a fresh, better-for-you meal.
The best part: This heart-healthy dish comes together in a snap. Just process the homemade dressing featuring dates, Dijon mustard and apple cider vinegar. Then toss Brussels sprouts, kale, red onion, pistachios and, of course, avocados before combining with the dressing.
Finally, serve with shaved Parmesan cheese on the side (so guests who prefer to avoid dairy can do so) and enjoy for a fresh meal that’s equal parts delicious and nutritious. Sliced avocados are the star of the dish, with naturally good fats and nearly 20 vitamins and minerals, making this an always good, super fun recipe and a way to begin making smarter
Yes, you can freeze avocados. But be warned, freezing avocado can change its flavor and texture, causing it to lose its buttery feel and taste, according to Avocados From Mexico.
How do you freeze an avocado?
Beyond diced avocado, there are severals ways you can freeze them depending on how you intend to use your avocados.
You can throw whole avocados right in the freezer. You’ll want to wrap them in plastic wrap or secure them in a plastic bag. They can also be halved or cut into slices with the skin left on, or cut into cubes with the skin removed.
To keep your avocados from turning brown, MasterClass recommends spritzing cut avocados
with citrus juice and removing as much air as possible from storage bags. It’s also recommended to lay cubed avocado on a baking sheet, and once the pieces freeze, transfer them to a plastic freezer bag. You can also mash avocado (with some added citrus juice!) and store it in an airtight freezer container, or even an ice cube tray. This is an ideal method if you want to make dips, dressings, baked goods, or smoothies. (Delish. com)
food choices.
Discover more ways to add heart-healthy meals to your menu by visiting AvocadosFromMexico.com/ avocado-nutrition.
Servings 8
Dressing
1 tablespoon lemon juice
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
4 dates, pitted, softened
2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
1/4 cup olive oil
2 Avocados From Mexico, sliced
6 cups Brussels sprouts, shaved or shredded
3 cups lacinto (dinosaur) kale, shredded
1 cup red onion, sliced
1/2 cup pistachios (or pumpkin seeds), shelled reduced-fat (sharp) Parmesan cheese, shaved or grated, for topping (optional)
To make dressing: In food processor, process lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, pitted dates and mustard. Slowly add olive oil to combine.
To make salad: In large salad bowl, combine avocados, shaved Brussels sprouts, kale, red onion and pistachios. Drizzle salad dressing evenly over greens and toss until well-coated.
Serve with shaved Parmesan cheese, if desired. (Family Features)
By Tony Rizzo
When I shot the photos of Christopher Reeve that got him a second screen test for “Superman” in 1976, I never would have guessed that his “Man of Steel” would gross a whopping $300 million. But the box office kept sinking after the first film. “Superman II” (1980) grossed $216.3 million, “Superman III” (1983) grossed $80.2 million, and “Superman IV” only grossed $36.7 million.
David Corenswet? Like Reeve, he's a relatively unknown, and his biggest role to date had him 13th-billed in “Twisters” (2024).
Sunday-Thursday, August 10-14, 2025
This year, Corenswet started filming “Mr. Irrelevant” with Michael Shannon, but the film hasn't found a distributor yet. However, with the success of “Superman,” it's sure to be a done deal. He has been married to actress Julia Best Warner since 2023, and they had a daughter in 2024 before moving their family to Pennsylvania.
currently shooting in Slovenia. Maybe the First Lady's family will be extras ... (Now that's funny!)
Pine hasn't been romantically linked to anyone since he and Brit actress Annabelle Wallis parted in 2022. “Very interesting!”
Once again, “Superman” (2025) started big with $220 million during its first weekend. But can this be sustained for sequels? Is it the superhero himself or the new embodiment of
What's become of “Star Trek's” Captain James T. Kirk? Chris Pine, the last Kirk, hasn't been waiting around for Paramount Pictures to get their act together. He'll star with Cate Blanchett and Dave Bautista in the alien-invasion comedy “Alpha Gang,” which is
When they announced that “Ted Lasso” was ending after three seasons, we all laughed. Sixty-one Emmy nominations and 13 Emmy wins told us that this wouldn't last. Well, sure enough … “Ted Lasso” is coming back for season four on Apple TV+ with Jason Sudeikis, Hannah Waddingham, and the rest of the gang before you could say “season five!”
Another cash cow they can't let go of is Disney's “Hocus Pocus” franchise.
Bette Midler, Sarah Jessica Parker and Kathy Najimy will be back for “Hocus Pocus 3.” I don't know if they'll make it by this Halloween, though. The ladies keep bugging Disney to make a move sooner rather than later and, as Midler put it, “while [they're]
Aug. 4, 2025
1. The Fantastic Four: First Steps (PG-13) Pedro Pascal, Vanessa Kirby
still breathing!
Tue & Wed 1:20 4:30; Thu 1:20 4:30 7:10
Ever yone s favorite felons are back, and this time they ’ve got company The Bad Gir s THE NAKED GUN C Sun: 10 30 1:00 3 10 5:20 7 30; Mon to Thu: 1 00 3:10 5 20 7:30
Lt Frank Dreb n Jr (Liam Neeson) fol ows n his father ’s footsteps in THE NAKED GUN
TOGETHER E 1 40 PM
Unnatura force threatens to corrupt Time and Mi lie s ives the r love, and their flesh
THE FANTASTIC FOUR: FIRST STEPS C Sun: 10:20 1:15 4:00 7:20; Mon to Thu: 1:15 4:00 7:20
Forced to balance their roles as heroes w th the strength of the r fam ly bond The Fantast c Four must defend Ear th from a ravenous space god
SUPERMAN C Sun: 1 00 4:00 7 00; Mon: 1 00 4:00 Tue to Thu: 1 00 4:00 7 00 DC Studios first feature film to h t the big screen, is set to soar into theaters worldwide this summer from Warner Bros F1 THE MOVIE C 6 50 PM Ruben conv nces Sonny to come back to FORMULA 1 for one ast shot at saving the team and being the best
2. Superman (PG-13) David Corenswet, Rachel Brosnahan
3. Jurassic World: Rebirth (PG13) Scarlett Johansson, Mahershala Ali
4. F1: The Movie (PG-13) Brad Pitt, Damson Idris
5. Smurfs (PG) Rihanna, James Corden
©2025 King Features Synd., Inc.
Pedro Pascal, at 50, has become the face of a superhero. It all started with his role in “The Last of Us.” (His heroic character recently met his untimely end.) On July 21, “The Fantastic Four: First Steps” opened with costars Vanessa Kirby and Julia Garner. Next, he has “The Mandalorian and Grogu” with Sigourney Weaver and Jeremy Allen White, which will hit big screens on May 22, 2026. Then he'll play Reed Richards/Mister Fantastic again in “Avengers Doomsday,” releasing on Dec. 17, 2026.
In real life, Pascal is an agnostic, a progressive, and an LGBTQ+ advocate since his sister, Lux, came out as transgender. His own preference is still a question mark since, at 50, he's never been married or linked to anyone. Maybe this is just a “Fantastic” way to titillate everyone's fantasies!
©2025 King Features Synd., Inc.
Strokes can happen to anyone, at any age — even young people. Despite being one of the leading causes of death and long-term disability in the United States, strokes are largely preventable, treatable and beatable — if you can control your risk factors.
According to the American Stroke Association, a division of the American Heart Association, every 40 seconds, someone in the U.S. has a stroke. Keeping blood pressure in check, living a healthy lifestyle and knowing stroke warning signs may help protect you and your loved ones.
Here are key insights from the American Stroke Association’s Together to End Stroke initiative, nationally supported by the HCA Healthcare Foundation.
Up to 80% of strokes may be preventable, according to the American Stroke Association. You can take action to prevent strokes by managing your risk factors, like high blood pressure, a leading cause and controllable risk factor for stroke and heart disease. Other risk factors include diabetes and obesity, which can be kept in check with healthy lifestyle behaviors such as good nutrition. Quitting smoking and being physically active are important. Atrial fibrillation, or AFib, which is a quivering or irregular heartbeat, also increases stroke risk. In fact, people with AFib are five times more likely to have a stroke, according to the American Heart Association.
Nearly 1 in 4 strokes occur in people who had a previous stroke, sometimes because they don’t know what caused the first, making identifying the cause of the stroke a key step toward future
prevention. Treatment depends on the type of stroke someone is having, which can be determined with a series of medical evaluations and tests.
Work with your health care professional to develop a plan that helps you move forward after a first stroke while preventing a second. This plan should include controlling risk factors, like achieving and maintaining healthy blood pressure, blood sugar and cholesterol levels.
“Preventing a second stroke is possible with the right approach,” said Teresita Casanova, MD, HCA Healthcare affiliated neurologist and American Stroke Association volunteer expert. “Taking medicines as prescribed, monitoring health numbers, and making small, consistent lifestyle changes can make a big difference. Stroke survivors should feel empowered to take control of their health and work with their care team to build a strong prevention plan.”
To help you in your journey, you can rely on tools such as the Heart & Stroke Helper, a free self-management app available for stroke survivors and their caregivers. The app allows patients to oversee their health in one place with features that track progress on lifestyle habits, manage medications, track health numbers, provide information about stroke and allow patients to connect with others for inspiration.
Find more ways to manage second stroke risk at Stroke.org.
Most adults in the U.S. don’t know the stroke warning signs, nor that stroke is largely treatable if you call 911 as soon as you recognize the symptoms.
Learning the acronym F.A.S.T. can help you recognize that someone may be having stroke symptoms so you can take life-saving action.
F Face Drooping. Does one side of the face droop, or is it numb? Ask the person to smile. Is the person’s smile uneven?
A Arm Weakness. Is one arm weak or numb? Ask the person to raise both arms. Does one arm drift downward?
S Speech. Is speech slurred? Is the person unable to speak or hard to understand? Ask the person to repeat a simple sentence, like “The sky is blue.”
T Time to Call 911. If you or anyone else shows any of these symptoms, call 911 immediately. (Family Features)
Mental health issues, such as stress, anxiety and depression, are common among older adults, and can be exacerbated by declining health, loss of loved ones, financial challenges and late-in-life regrets.
Unfortunately, these issues can impact overall health, quality of life, and in some cases, even be life-threatening. The suicide rate among Americans aged 75 and older is the highest of any age group, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
If you’re an older adult, Dr. Zia Wahid, medical director with Cigna’s Medicare business, encourages you to take the following actions:
Research has found that loneliness can have negative health consequences as impactful as smoking 15 cigarettes a day. That’s why finding connection is essential.
Check with your local community center to find out what activities, classes and social events they offer. Faith-based organizations, neighborhood gatherings, and clubs based on common interests are also great ways to meet people and stay engaged. A simple phone call with a loved one is often enough to strengthen bonds, and emotional resilience.
Physical activity can improve strength and agility as you age. It can also be a powerful way to boost your mood and ease anxiety and depression. From
The SCV Senior Center at Bella Vida is a private non-profit corporatoin that offers a large variety of supports and services to seniors. There are several classes ranging from arts and crafts to creative writing and fitness classes. Located at 27180 Golden Valley Road in Canyon Country, information can be found at scvseniorcenter.org.
chair yoga to water aerobics, there are forms of exercise appropriate for every ability and age, and free or inexpensive classes offered in many communities. Your Medicare Advantage (MA) plan may also offer fitness benefits that can help you move more and stay connected. Group fitness not your thing? Consider just getting outdoors for a short walk and a dose of sunshine.
Substance use disorder is common among older adults, and can intensify mental health challenges. One in 11 adults over age 60 had a substance use disorder in 2022, and that number is on the rise, according to the American Psychological Association. Check your Medicare plan. It may cover treatment for alcoholism and substance use in both inpatient and outpatient settings.
Mental health, just like physical health, requires your attention and care. If you’re experiencing mental health concerns, schedule a doctor’s appointment. They can refer you to a psychologist, psychiatrist or clinical social worker, or provide additional advice and resources.
Talking about your feelings with friends, family, or even a trained professional can be helpful. Medicare covers individual and group therapy with doctors or
licensed clinicians, and some of these services are offered virtually.
Antidepressants, anti-anxiety medications, antipsychotics and mood stabilizers, can be effective treatments for certain mental health conditions. A Part D plan — either standalone or within an MA plan — covers many of these prescriptions. Before starting a new medication, be sure to talk to your doctor about possible side effects and interactions with drugs you’re currently taking.
If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health crisis, immediately call or text the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 988 to reach a trained crisis counselor. This free, confidential service is available 24/7 nationwide in both English and Spanish.
For more information about Medicare benefits and mental health, visit cignamedicareinformation. com.
“Depression and other mental health concerns don’t have to be part of aging. Treating these conditions can put you on the path toward a more fulfilling life, so that you can enjoy this chapter of life with confidence and joy,” says Dr. Wahid. (StatePoint)
Everyone loves a deal, but when something sounds too good to be true, it usually is. The same thing holds true when it comes to purchasing deeply discounted stamps. Scams involving counterfeit U.S. postage are costing the U.S. Postal Service millions and could cost you too. Customers using counterfeit postage risk having their items confiscated and could face stiff penalties. That’s not all. Now scammers are targeting job seekers with work-from-home scams that use counterfeit postage to reship packages.
How big of a concern are these scams? Since October 2024, the U.S. Postal Inspection Service has already seized more than 6.3 million counterfeit stamps and have issued 138 cease-and-desist orders to individuals and businesses using counterfeit postage. Here’s how to avoid common scams.
Have you seen online offers for United States Forever® stamps at 50% off? When you do, keep scrolling … stamps offered at such a steep discount are likely counterfeit. You may see offers on social media marketplaces, e-commerce sites via third-party vendors and other sites, often sold in bulk quantities at a significant discount — anywhere from 20% to 50% off the face value of the stamps.
Why it matters If you use counterfeit postage, even unknowingly, your mail, documents or other items likely won’t reach their destination. Items mailed with counterfeit postage will be considered abandoned and are subject to being opened and disposed of at the Postal Service’s discretion. Using counterfeit postage is not a victimless crime beyond defrauding the U.S. Postal Service, you’re also putting your own mail, property and personal information at risk.
What to do To ensure postage you use is legitimate and your mail arrives safely, always purchase stamps directly from the Postal Service or from an Approved Postal Provider. Approved vendors can include legitimate “big box” or warehouse retailers who may offer small discounts on postage stamps through resale agreements with the Postal Service. Find approved vendors in your area here. To report counterfeit postage to the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, visit USPIS/gov/report or call 1-877-876-2455.
These scams often start with a job posting on social media. The job sounds so easy — you to work from home reshipping packages to their intended recipient.
Here’s how the scam works. The scammer sends items, usually purchased with stolen credit cards, and instructs the work-from-home employee to reship the package to the recipient using prepaid shipping labels they provide. Those labels are usually counterfeit and the employee has now, oftentimes unknowingly, committed a crime.
Why it matters When the scam is complete, you’ll find that you won’t be paid. On top of that, you’ve helped the scammers’ customers receive stolen goods, the Postal Service loses revenue, and you’ve become involved in a criminal scheme that could lead to time in prison.
What to do To protect yourself from these scams, remember: Legitimate companies and websites will have corporate contact information, a physical address, a phone number, terms and conditions, and privacy policies.
Still unsure if the business is legitimate? Contact the human resources department of the company offering work-from-home opportunities to verify the job or reach out to your state’s attorney general’s office or consumer affairs office, the Federal Trade Commission or Better Business Bureau.
What could be better than getting an unexpected package? But you didn’t order it, and it’s not from someone you know. You may get a package addressed to you with no return address or with a retailer’s name. Unfortunately, when seemingly harmless free items come from a company, they may
come with a higher cost than you realize. Unsolicited merchandise can be part of a larger “brushing” scam, which is illegal in the U.S. In these scams the sender is usually an international third-party seller who found your address online, and sends you merchandise to designate you as a “verified buyer.” The retailer then writes a fake review in your name to fraudulently boost product ratings and sales numbers — which they hope results in more sales. A new variation on brushing aims to steal your personal information — often to commit fraud or steal your identity. Called “quishing” or QR code phishing, this scam involves, packages containing cards with QR codes. The recipient is instructed to scan the code to get more information or discover who sent the gift.
Why it matters Since the merchandise is usually cheap, scammers consider losing the item an acceptable loss. But the fake review in your name may encourage people to purchase worthless stuff. Further, while you may like getting free items, scanning unfamiliar QR codes could compromise your device’s security, allowing scammers to steal personal information and use it for illicit activities. In some instances, bad actors may use your address and account information to receive merchandise, then steal it from your home before you can intercept it. What to do Receive unsolicited merchandise?
There are three things you can do: First, the merchandise is free, so you can keep it. But you didn’t order it, so don’t let senders convince you to pay for it. Second, if there’s a return address and it’s unopened, mark it “Return to Sender” and the Postal Service will return it. Finally, you can discard the item. Also, to protect yourself, change account passwords and monitor your credit reports and credit card bills regularly. And never scan an unfamiliar QR code included in a package you didn’t order.
The U.S. Postal Inspection Service encourages you to share these tips with family and friends to avoid bogus stamps and scams. Learn more at Counterfeit Stamps – United States Postal Inspection Service, and report suspected scams at USPIS.gov/report. (BPT)
Backyards have undergone quite a transformation over the last decade plus. The days when patios and decks were all a backyard living space had to offer are largely a thing of the past, as homeowners have realized just how valuable it can be to commit to a stunning backyard.
The real estate experts at Zillow estimate that homes with backyard features such as outdoor televisions, outdoor showers and outdoor kitchens command 3.1% more than expected upon reaching the market. If 3.1% doesn’t sound like a lot, it actually equates to nearly $11,000 on a typical home.
But there’s more to gain than money when converting a backyard space into a relaxing respite. Such spaces can provide a welcoming escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life, all the while giving homeowners and residents a comfortable space to soak in the great outdoors. With that in mind, homeowners can take the following
steps to establish a peaceful backyard retreat.
Refresh the landscape Even if your vision is centered on outdoor furniture and a space that accommodates movie nights under the stars, it’s still best to refresh the existing landscape if it needs a little upkeep. Overgrown trees, hedges and bushes can create the same cluttered vibe that dominates interior spaces overrun with items. If necessary, work with a local tree service or landscape architect to trim, or even remove, trees and hedges that are crowding the backyard and making it feel claustrophobic or giving it an unkempt look.
Aim for a landscape that affords a balance of sun and shade so the space is as comfortable as possible throughout the day.
Set up multiple gathering spaces, if possible Once a backyard retreat is established, everyone who calls the
property home might find the space hard to resist. Keep this in mind when planning the space and aim to set up multiple gathering spaces.
An outdoor kitchen with a nearby dinner table can be a great space to enjoy al fresco dining, but a separate area to read a book or watch a movie or ballgame can make the space more versatile.
Some may want to relax away from the noise of the grill area, and multiple gathering spaces ensures there’s always a peaceful spot to unwind out back.
Add a water feature Running water has a way of calming the nerves, and that’s good to keep in mind when planning a backyard retreat. Water features run the gamut from garden ponds to koi ponds to fountains to hot tubs.
Homeowners can identify which feature best aligns with their idea of relaxation and then work with a landscape architect to ensure it’s installed
in their backyard oasis.
Don’t forget shade Temperatures are rising in many areas of the globe, and that’s worth noting when planning a backyard retreat. Even the most ardent sun worshippers likely won’t want to be exposed to the sun at all times when relaxing in their backyards.
Strategically chosen means of providing shade can make spaces enjoyable all day long. Consider umbrellas, gazebos, pergolas, and even retractable awnings to cover patios and decks when the sun is at its highest each afternoon.
If you plan to spend ample time in the grass, make that more enjoyable by planting shade trees, which also can protect the grass from drought and make it more comfortable underfoot.
A relaxing backyard retreat can make for an ideal space to escape the hustle and bustle of daily life. (MC)
When homeowners feel their walls are closing in on them, many choose to build space through a room addition.
No one enjoys being in cramped quarters. Whether a person battles a legitimate case of claustrophobia when confined in tight spaces or simply prefers a place to stretch out, there’s no denying the appeal of a little extra room. That’s particularly so at home, where cramped spaces can make it hard to unwind.
When homeowners feel their walls are closing in on them, many choose to build space via a room addition. Room addition projects are extensive and expensive undertakings, with the home renovation experts at Angi estimating the average add-on costs $48,000. But Angi estimates such projects can cost as much as $72,600, or even more depending on the size of the space and the features chosen. The financial commitment when adding a room is significant, but homeowners and residents also
will need to prepare for a potentially lengthy disruption to their daily routines. Various online resources, including Angi, suggest room addition projects typically take around three to four months. With so much at stake, homeowners who think they might benefit from a room addition can look for various signs to help them determine if such a project is right for them.
Cramped quarters without much space for people are perhaps the most notable sign that residents can benefit from some additional space in a home. Cluttered spaces suggest homeowners may have run out of room for their stuff, and a custom addition can provide that extra room while contributing to a more calming ambiance in common spaces that may no longer
be overwhelmed by papers, toys and other items that can quickly take over a home that lacks space.
Millions of homeowners like to entertain friends and family, and that’s more manageable for some than it is for others. If interior or exterior spaces do not accommodate hosting, a room addition that expands an existing kitchen or living room might be the ideal renovation project.
A home that no longer has enough space to meet your needs is another sign a room addition might be in order. This very issue emerged for millions of professionals during the COVID-19 pandemic and has remained a challenge ever since. Indeed, an increase in days spent working remotely has left many homeown-
ers grateful to work from home but desirous of a designated remote work space. A room addition to accommodate a home office can be just what remote workers need to restore fully functional status to their homes.
While the sticker price of a home addition may (or may not) raise an eyebrow, the project is almost certain to prove more cost-effective than moving. According to data from the U.S. Census Bureau and the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, the average sale price of a home in the United States reached $503,800 in January 2025. While that marked a roughly $16,000 decrease from a year earlier, it’s still a high figure that many homeowners aren’t willing to pay. A cost comparison detailing the price to move versus the price to build an addition may indicate that the latter option is a homeowner’s best bet.
A room addition could be the perfect renovation project for homeowners who need more space but still prefer to stay put. (MC)
Continued from page 5
Less than 20 minutes from the shores of Lake Tahoe, the area offers a wide range of summer activities, from enjoying the lake itself to exploring the surrounding mountains and trails.
Popular options include water sports like kayaking, paddleboarding and swimming, as well as hiking, biking and fishing.
Visitors can also explore beaches, enjoy the lively atmosphere of the villages and experience the vibrant nightlife.
The trip to the Lake Valley State Recreation area from the SCV will take about 6 hours 45 min (448 miles) via CA-99 North.
Heavenly Valley
4080 Lake Tahoe Blvd., South Lake
Tahoe 96150
Info www.skiheavenly.com
When you think of Heavenly Valley, winter sports like skiing, come instantly to mind. However, summer at Heavenly Valley offers a variety of summer fun activities:
Heavenly Gondola The gondola ride transports passengers from 6,000 feet to just over 9,000 feet in less than 15 minutes. At the top, visitors can enjoy lunch at the summit restaurant, or head out to East Peak Lake or Skyline Trail for hiking.
Mountain Coaster This gravity-powered alpine coaster will exhilarate you and your family as it coasts through forest and natural rock formations. It promises incredible views along the ride. The coaster sleds fit up to two riders, so it’s a perfect couples activity.
Dunes
Hot Shot Zip Line Four parallel zip lines are accessed by using the Big Easy Lift. This experience is 1,000 feet long and reaches speeds of around 3040 mph.
Other summer activities include tubing, hiking, gemstone panning and
rock wall climbing.
The average August temperature at Heavenly Valley is 65 degrees.
Travel time to Heavenly from the SCV is 6 hours 45 minutes (413 miles) via US-395 North.
Electric vehicles have put a charge into the U.S. automotive market, but there’s a burning question many drivers still have: How can tires help them get the most out of their EVs?
From October 2024 to January 2025, hybrid and electric vehicles accounted for 25% of new vehicle sales in the United States — a 32% year-over-year increase, according to S&P Global.
The EV segment may be showing electrifying growth these days, but global tiremaker Nokian Tyres has developed tires with EVs in mind for many years. Every tire comes with an Electric Fit marking that certifies it’s a seamless fit for EVs.
What does Nokian Tyres have to say about EV tires? And how are tiremakers working hard to meet the needs of this emerging market?
Electric vehicles are generally 10 to 15% heavier than internal combustion engine vehicles. That places extra wear and tear on traditional tires. Rubber that isn’t durable enough to withstand the added bulk will wear out more quickly, and sometimes irregularly.
That makes blowouts more likely and driving less efficient. The added weight can also increase braking time and cause handling issues on challenging surfaces, such as rain.
Tiremakers seek to account for the heavier load by constructing tires with heavier-duty materials and formulating rubber compounds to be more responsive to the road. Nokian Tyres reinforces its EV-compatible products with robust internal structures and advanced materials that maintain stability and durability under heavier loads. The result is a tire that delivers confident handling and long-lasting performance, even under the increased
demands of electric mobility.
Without the hum of an engine, EVs make road noise more noticeable. The main sound drivers notice in the cabin is the noise of tires touching the road. Tire manufacturers seek to mitigate noise frequencies by using tread patterns, rubber compounds and materials that dampen sound waves.
Nokian Tyres addresses this with innovative noise-reduction technologies, including silent sidewall designs and optimized tread patterns that absorb sound and reduce vibration.
Electric vehicles are powerful. They often deliver two to three times more torque than comparable ICE vehicles, especially in the mainstream and luxury segments. And because that torque is available instantly, EVs feel quicker and more responsive in everyday driving.
That extra acceleration power presents a challenge to tires, since rapid changes in speed can cause them to wear more quickly. Drivers should pursue tires that can withstand high torque and deliver grip that maximizes their vehicles’ acceleration power. The key: tread patterns and rubber com-
pounds that balance durability and responsiveness.
Nokian Tyres engineers its EV tires with advanced tread compounds and reinforced structures that resist abrasion and maintain grip under sudden acceleration. This helps drivers enjoy the full performance of their EVs without compromising safety or longevity.
Tire design plays a critical role in EV range. High rolling resistance can drain battery life, while optimized tires can help extend it.
How do tiremakers lower the rolling resistance of their tires, helping to optimize EV range? Design plays a big role. According to Nokian Tyres, a tire’s sidewall construction, tread pat-
tern and rubber compound play a role in reducing rolling resistance.
Nokian Tyres’ EV-compatible products feature low-rolling-resistance compounds that reduce energy loss and improve efficiency; in fact, more than 90% of Nokian Tyres products rank in the lowest categories of rolling resistance. This means drivers can go farther on a single charge - an essential benefit for those looking to maximize their vehicle’s potential.
For the right driver, electric vehicles can offer big advantages over rides powered by internal combustion engines. But that’s only true if the tires are up to the challenge.
For more recommendations about EV tires, visit NokianTires.com/EVs. (BPT)
By David Hegg
As I am writing this, I am sitting in a very old and magnificent estate in England called Matfen Hall. So far, we’ve traveled to Boston, Norway, Switzerland, and are now in northern England just miles from the Scottish border. This month-long trip has been a combination of vacation and business, and our path has taken us to cities and fields that were, in a very real sense, magnificently ancient. Let’s say they are monuments to those who labored long and hard to build what would last for centuries.
First, we were able to celebrate Independence Day in Boston where the reality of early Colonial life still emanates from the streets and walls dating back to the 1600s. As we watched the fireworks over the St. Charles River from the rooftop garden of our friends’ brownstone apartment, I had a new and quite different July 4th experience. Being where the call to freedom began was a powerful reminder of the courage of our forefathers. They had a persevering passion that even the greatest opposition could not dampen. This began in me a deeper understanding that history matters, and it matters even more as society begins to forget it.
Then, we flew to Norway and once again I was smacked in the face with the reality that our America is an infant compared to the history of Europe. We walked streets a thousand years old, saw buildings and monuments dedicated to courageous men and women who had the grit and grace necessary to build foundations for the generations that would follow. And as my wife and I traveled to the northernmost point in
the Arctic Circle accessible to those not in expeditions, we learned the story of those whose quest to reach the North Pole required of them a level of passion and endurance rarely seen in our comfortable convenience-addicted California lifestyle.
Our travels then took us to Montreux and Geneva where, once again, the youth of our homeland was so evident. And, as before, understanding the history of Western Europe from a Swiss perspective taught us so much about the necessity of perseverance, of working long and hard in a cause that was against all odds but essential. Situated in the middle of warring countries, this little bastion of peace remained steadfastly neutral as wars raged all around them.
In England we saw the sights of London, and once again were overwhelmed with the reality of history. A crash course in the monarchy, with its tragedies and triumphs, underscored the theme that had been steadily growing in our minds. Everything that is worth doing will demand continuing despite the opposition and obstacles in the way. We listened to the stories of those willing to be burned at the stake rather than recant
their beliefs. We were forced to realize that such determination and faithfulness demanded a strength of character and loyalty to what mattered most to them that is seldom seen in our world.
We made our way north to Yorkshire where the dry rock walls delineated the moors and in so doing testified to the dedication to hard work that was characteristic of those early settlers. Miles and still more miles of rock walls built without mortar and still standing after hundreds of years were proof that in almost every case there is no substitute for hard work, day after day after day.
So, what am I trying to say? Just this. If we are honest, we must admit that the ethic of hard work is slowly slipping away in our culture. We have come to believe that doing things in life should be convenient. Think “there’s an app for that.” We expect there to be an easy way to get hard things done. We have become addicted to convenience, to technological short-cuts, and immediate gratification. And most of all, we’ve been duped into thinking attaining success should be easy.
Yet, what we are leaving out of the equation is the necessity of experience.
Our path has taken us to cities and fields that were, in a very real sense, magnificently ancient. Let’s say they are monuments to those who labored long and hard to build what would last for centuries.
There are many essential things that cannot be hurried, and experience is primary among them. While it is possible to learn things with artificial intelligence or Google, the most basic elements of ethical living, relationships and character demand trial and error. There is no app for grit, no AI platform for learning how to cultivate civility, and certainly no pill you can take to develop self-control and the habits of righteousness.
Some of the best and most important traits and skills and perspectives along the path of human existence are only recognized, learned and incorporated into our lives over time. They are formed through trial and error, and the opportunity to learn from those who have gone before us. Walking the halls of history with its ancient walls, monuments and reminders of both triumphs and tragedy will remind us that winning at life is not easy, and perseverance through adversity only strengthens the character and opens the doors of opportunity.
We can hurry many things in life. Technology has made so many things easier and faster. But it is still true that experience over time can teach us necessary things and shape our character in essential ways that cannot be hurried. And one of the most important lessons experiences teach is that true success and satisfaction in life will demand a passion to keep going, to strive and labor through all obstacles to both survive and succeed.
Now, please excuse me as we’re heading off to Scotland!
Local resident David Hegg is senior pastor of Grace Baptist Church. “Ethically Speaking” appears Sundays.