Sunday Signal 102223

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

OCTOBER 22, 2023

It’s Never Too late to Take Care of Yourself Page 7

Your News, Entertainment & Lifestyle Source

4

AWESOME TOWN IS HALLOWEEN TOWN

11

WHAT DOES THE THREAD COUNT MEAN?

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BUILDING A NEST EGG DURING INFLATION

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

Chiquita Canyon Landfill RELIEF PROGRAM/PROGRAMAS DE ALIVIO

Financial Assistance Available chiquita canyon LANDFILL utility reimbursement program el programa de reembolso de servicios públicos de Chiquita Canyon

designated residents of Val Verde, Castaic, and surrounding unincorporated communities MAY BE ELIGIBLE FOR UTILITY REIMBURSEMENT for their efforts to mitigate odors believed to be emanated by the Chiquita Canyon Landfill Applications for Assistance Accepted Through/Solicitudes de Asistencia Aceptadas Hasta

Learn more/ Aprenda más:

OCTOBER 31, 2023 WE’RE HERE TO HELP/ ESTAMOS AQUÍ PARA AYUDAR

Email: ccl_relief@growamerica.org Call: (626) 547-4056

ChiquitaCanyonLandfillRelief.lacda.org

O C TO B E R 22, 2023

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 3

TABLE OF CONTENTS

NEWS FEATURES 4 Awesometown is Halloween-Town 5 Halloween Traditions 6 Experience Fall in Southern California 7 Senior Health ­— It’s Never Too Late

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CITY MANAGER

8

FOOD 9 Halloween Treats The Great Bundt-Kin Mummy Pops ENTERTAINMENT

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8 State of the City 2023 — Event Extravaganza

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10 ‘The Burial’

HOME 11 Unraveling the Mystery of Thread Counts HEALTH 12 Early-Onset Alzheimer’s GARDENING 13 Protecting Your Deck PETS 14 Canine Parvovirus SENIOR LIVING 15 A Second Wind FINANCE 16 Building a Nest Egg in Times of High Costs CELEBRITY EXTRA BOOK BITES

PUZZLES OPINION David Hegg

11 12 13 14 15 16 17 17

18 19

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4 · S U N D AYS I G N A L

O C TO B E R 22, 2023

N E W S F E AT U R E

Awesometown is Now Halloween-town

and ghoul.

“This is something I started with my daughter who is now 8 years old,” said Baxter. “This year she told me to make it scarier and have stuff pop out at you. However, it’s still a fun scare that families can enjoy.”

Those wishing to see the display at 23935 Bar Harbor Court can see it during the weekends and Halloween night from 7 - 9 p.m.

By Selvin Ramirez For The Signal

H

alloween has descended upon the Santa Clarita Valley — and there is something for everyone, from family-friendly community events to numerous scary haunted walk-throughs. Here is a sampling of what you can expect to see this spooky season.

Castaic Lake Halloween Haunt

Castaic Lake is hosting its annual haunted hike from Oct. 27 to 29.

Come to the circus of mayhem and literally crawl, crouch and interact with clowns. This immersive experience challenges even the bravest as obstacles include blood, slime, gore cannons, slides and real balls of fire.

Tickets can be purchased at castaiclake.com/halloweenhaunt.

A spooktacular kids festival will also be held at Castaic Lake on Saturday, Oct. 28, 2 - 6 p.m. There will be trick or treating, a mini maze, costume contest, inflatables, face painting and games.

Halloween Movies

The city of Santa Clarita will be showing “Hocus Pocus” as part of the City Cinemas in the Park on Friday, Oct. 27, at 7:30 p.m. Bring your own chairs and blankets, and food will be available for purchase from food trucks.

Tapped Out Gaming, at 28410 Avenue Stanford in the Valencia Industrial Center, will be hosting a horror movie marathon on Oct. 28 and Oct. 29. Bring your favorite games to play and enjoy some scary movies. Movies shown will be R-rated due to blood, language, gore and more.

Haunted Hallway at Valencia High School

Valencia High School is hosting its inaugural Haunted Hallway event on Tuesday, Oct. 24, 6 - 8 p.m. The event is open to the community, and it will feature live scare actors, food trucks and games. Admission is free, but donations will be accepted to go toward breast cancer research.

Halloween at the Library

All three branches of the city of Santa Clarita Public Library will be

Halloween Light Show

PHOTO BY SELVIN RAMIREZ / FOR THE SIGNAL

hosting various Halloween-inspired activities that include crafts, scavenger hunts, taxidermy demonstration and costume parades. Those wanting to see the full calendar of library events can visit santaclarita.library calendar.com/events/month.

Community Center Halloween Events

The Newhall Community Center is hosting its 24th annual Halloween Fiesta on Friday, Oct. 27, 6 - 8 p.m.

It will feature a children’s costume contest, trick or treating, a haunted house, mini golf, carnival games and fun for the whole family. For more information, contact Yolanda Ledezma at (661) 286-4006.

The Canyon Country Community Center is hosting its second annual Halloween event on Saturday, Oct. 28, 3 - 5 p.m. This event will provide the community with the opportunity to honor, celebrate and learn about Día de Muertos and to see an altar with ofrendas to honor family members who have passed. There will be live mariachi, trick or treating, tote decorating, Halloween ceramic crafts, scratching spooky art, face painting and the popular youth sports “Zombie Run.” For more information, contact Julie Calderon at (661) 290-2266.

Dangling Carrot’s Grisly Garden

Immerse yourself in a world where

everything goes wrong. This haunted house attraction will give you fright, mystery, confusion and gore.

Designed by experts from the film industry, you will see state-of-the-art sound, lighting, scenery and special effects. Dangling Carrot’s Grisly Garden is open Wednesday to Sunday nights and Halloween night from to 11 p.m. Tickets are available at danglingcarrotcreative.com. Proceeds benefit film and TV industry professionals who have been out of work due to the actors’ and writers’ strikes.

Sebi’s Spooktacular Haunted Hill (Holidays on the Glen)

Benefiting Project Sebastian, a foundation that provides support for those battling rare diseases, Sebi’s Spooktacular Haunted Hill is a Halloween haunt that features animatronics, special effects, scare actors and magicians from the Magic Castle.

Those wishing to visit at 27747 Sequoia Glen Drive can see it Oct. 27 to 31 from dusk until 10 p.m.

Bar Harbor Scares

Alan Baxter set out to create a haunted house that is suitable for elementary-age kids. This family-friendly display features an array of lighting, sound and fog effects. You’ll have to walk past a cemetery where a scarecrow is on guard. When you make it to the end, watch out for the spiders

Known for their Christmas light show display, the Thomas and Cody house is incorporating Halloween for the first time this year. The show consists of 22,000 lights synchronized to your favorite Halloween songs.

Visitors can tune to 99.7 FM to hear the accompanying show music. Those wishing to see the show at 25851 Royal Oaks Road can see it every night until Nov. 1 from 7 - 9:30 p.m.

Nightmare on Linda Vista Street

See the expansive display of lights and animatronics that features ghouls from your worst nightmares. Visit on Halloween night to go through three free mazes. Those wishing to see the display at 28343 Linda Vista St. can see it every night from 7 - 10:30 p.m.

Witch City

For the third year in a row, Witch City is back and spookier than ever.

Witch City features over 13 custom witches and lots of animatronics and spooky props, according to the website. This display is suitable for kids of all ages and includes a “free child care” if you dare. The display is at 25420 Vía Jardin can be seen every night from 7 to 11 p.m.

Pumpkin Hallow Haunt

Pumpkin Hallow is a graveyard full of fun gravestones, ghosts, skeletons and of course pumpkins. You’ll even encounter Christine, who has awoken from the grave. It is located at 22702 Pear Court every night 6 - 10 p.m.

For a detailed listing of Santa Clarita Valley haunts, visit bit. ly/48Xfw7A 

O C TO B E R 22, 2023

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 5

N E W S F E AT U R E

HALLOWEEN

A

s with many celebrations, Halloween is steeped in traditions — many of which can be traced back quite some time. Since Halloween is believed to have originated from Celtic pagan, ancient Roman and early Christian events, its traditions are varied. The following is a deep look at some old traditions associated with Halloween.

Bonfires

Historians trace many traditions of Halloween to a Celtic holiday known as Samhain (pronounced sow-in). The Celts lived 2,000 years ago in parts of what is now Northern France, Great Britain and Ireland.

During Samhain, people believed that the door between the worlds of the living and the dead was blurred.

On Samhain, Celts believed the ghosts of the dead returned. Also, Druids made predictions about the future at this time of year. It was customary to build large, sacred bonfires and burn crops and other sacrifices to the Celtic deities.

While large bonfires are not typically part of Halloween celebrations today, revelers can light fire pits in their yards that are reminiscent of ancient celebrations.

Trick-or-Treating

Christianity spread throughout Celtic regions and blended with other rituals. Pope Gregory III expanded on a holiday Pope Boniface IV established to honor Christian martyrs

C

andy is a popular treat on Halloween. While trick-or-treaters will often accept just about any confection in their bags and buckets, certain products reign supreme across the United States and Canada, according to RetailMeNot and Halloween Alley. These include: • Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups

to include all saints and martyrs. All Saints Day on November 1 commemorates the venerable saints, and All Souls Day on November 2 celebrates loved ones who went on to eternal rest. All-Hallows Eve (Halloween) was a time to pay homage to the dead.

Poor children would go door to door in more affluent neighborhoods offering to say prayers for residents’ deceased loved ones in exchange for some food or money. This was known as “souling,” which became the basis for trick-or-treating. Later the tradition became known as “guising” in areas of Scotland, where children would go around in costumes.

Witches

Images of witches riding broomsticks are everywhere come Halloween, and witch costumes remain a standard. Almanac.com indicates that, during the Middle Ages, women who practiced divination were dubbed “witches,” from the AngloSaxon word “wicce,” or “wise one.”

It was believed the witches could go into a trancelike state, and would do so in front of their fireplaces. Superstitious people believed the witches could fly out of their chimneys on broomsticks and terrorize others with magical deeds.

Bobbing for Apples

Bobbing for apples is not quite as popular as it once was, as more people have become concerned about spreading germs. During the Roman festival for Pomona, which occurred

TRADITIONS around November 1, Pomona, the goddess of fruit and orchards, was celebrated. Romans believed the first person to catch a bobbing apple with his or her teeth would be the first to marry. It also was believed apple peels contained the secrets to true love.

Carving Pumpkins

Removing the insides of pumpkins and carving them into funny or

fearsome faces may be messy work, but it’s tradition on Halloween. Turnips were the material of choice in ancient Ireland, but were replaced by pumpkins when immigrants came to America. The “lanterns” were made with scary faces and lit to frighten away spirits.

Halloween is full of traditions, many of which have lengthy histories.

(MC) 

Our Costumes Are All About You!

• Kit Kat • Snickers • Skittles • M&Ms • Starburst • Twizzlers In Canada, Mars, a chocolate bar in the same family as Snickers, and Coffee Crisp also are popular among trick-or-treaters. (MC)

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6 · S U N D AYS I G N A L

O C TO B E R 22, 2023

N E W S F E AT U R E

Best Places to View the Fall Foliage in So Cal

By Natasha Kayes Only in Your State

S

outhern California is hardly the first place most people would think of when it comes to enjoying glorious fall foliage — any more than it is considered a white winter destination. But the truth is that, despite our generally moderate year-round weather, we do experience a lovely fall season.

The fall here may not be quite as long or dramatic as some other states, but if you know when and where to go, you can immerse yourself in vibrant shades of red and gold, along with the beautifully crisp weather.

When do leaves change color in Southern California? Where are the best places to see it happen?

Every year, the Smoky Mountains team puts out a fabulous Fall Foliage Prediction Map for the whole country — yep, even Southern California — and we have zeroed in on some must-visit spots for 2023’s fall season!

In Southern California, as surprising as it sounds, Los Angeles County is often the first to start showing off its seasonal colors! It is expected to start as early as mid-September and reach peak color around the first or second week of October.

Arguably the best place in LA County to revel in reds, golds, and yellows is Malibu Creek State Park, which also happens to be an amazing place to hike, with tons of trails, grassy meadows, pretty mountains, rock pools, a lake, and more to add to the incredible fall beauty.

With stunningly manicured gardens as well as trees and plants from all over the world, LA’s botanical gardens, such as Descanso Gardens and the Los Angeles County Arboretum are also enchanting when the fall season arrives.

During the first week of October, San Diego County should begin to join the fall show, and you can count on places like Palomar Mountain State Park to be displaying lovely colors. Consider taking the Palomar Mountain Loop for a wonderfully sce-

Oak Glen. is famous for its display of fall colors and for old-fashioned cider mills, apple and pumpkin picking, an old-timey theme park and everything else you associate with a true fall wonderland. PHOTO COURTESY VISIT CALIFORNIA

Fall Foliage Prediction Map Week of October 23, 2023 No Change Minimal Patchy Partial Near Peak Peak Past Peak COURTESY SMOKYMOUNTAINS.COM

Big Bear comes alive with fall colors and festivities this time of year. The Big Bear Lake Oktoberfest runs from Sept. 9 to Nov. 5. PHOTO COURTESY BIG BEAR VACATIONS.

nic drive that includes the park.

I would also suggest visiting the town of Julian which not only gives visitors a real fall experience but is noted to have some of the best pie in the state - how fall-worthy is that?

If I had to pick one place as Southern California’s fall town, it would be Oak Glen. Famous not only for its outrageous display of color in the fall, but for old-fashioned cider mills, apple and pumpkin picking, an old-timey theme park, and everything else you associate with a true fall wonderland.

For the best fall foliage experience in Oak Glen, and the rest of San Bernardino County, aim for the second week of October through the end of the month.

Also in the San Bernardino Mountains, Big Bear Lake (which also happens to be a magical winter destination) comes alive in the fall. In the SoCal mountains, the deep green pines and other evergreens are intermingled with vibrant fall colors for a spectacular show.

Not far from Big Bear Lake, and perhaps a bit less crowded, you can also enjoy similar views at Lake Arrowhead. Take a boat ride to enjoy unbeatable views of the village bathed in gold, red, and green.

Nestled in the San Jacinto Mountains in Riverside County, the tiny town of Idyllwild-Pine Cove is an ideal place for a little getaway slightly later in the season. Expect the trees and foliage to start changing colors around the second week in October with the peak during the first half of November.

By mid-November, California’s changing of the

Malibu Canyon State Park. PHOTO CREDIT JAMES KENNEDY

leaves has passed its peak, although you can still enjoy glimpses of color in some areas as winter approaches. Now that you know when and where you can surround yourself in fall colors as the leaves change color in Southern California, it’s time to get planning! Pack the car, your favorite sweater, some road trip essentials (and of course, don’t forget the road trip snacks!), and enjoy the show! 

O C TO B E R 22, 2023

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 7

N E W S F E AT U R E

It’s Never Too Late to Take Care of Your Senior Health

By Michele E. Buttelman Signal Staff Writer

O

ne of the most common quips made by many seniors is the classic line, “If I knew I was going to live this long I would have taken better care of myself.” The quote has been attributed to composer Eubie Blake, baseball player Mickey Mantle, Hollywood producer Adolph Zukor and many others.

It’s a popular saying because it is true.

However, it’s never too late to think about your health and what you can do now to keep yourself enjoying life.

Anirudh Rai, M.D., of Henry Mayo Newhall Primary Care, said as people age there are numerous issues to confront, including viruses at this time of year.

“As we age a lot of issues surface with our health,” he said. “Osteoarthritis, bone health, heart health and other issues. Also, the immune system does get weaker as we get older.”

Rai said he recommends seniors take advantage of vaccinations to help the immune system fight off viruses.

Flu Vaccine

Rai said the annual flu shot is the first line of defense to stay healthy this fall and winter.

“As we age the T cells and B cells that are an essential part of the immune system tend to get lax,” he said. “That’s why we recommend getting an annual flu shot, especially the high dose shot.”

Known as the “senior flu shot” the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention started recommending the high dose flu shot to seniors in the summer of 2022. These shots can offer greater protection to people over 65, who do not have as strong a response to vaccinations as younger, healthier people.

The CDC reports that the 2023–2024 flu season influenza vaccines are quadrivalent, containing hemagglutinin (HA) derived from one influenza A/ (H1N1)pdm09 virus, one influenza A(H3N2) virus, one influenza B/Victoria lineage virus and one influenza B/Yamagata lineage virus.

The Yale School of Medicine reported recently that 90% of deaths worldwide related to influenza strike men and women aged 65 and older.

COVID-19 Vaccine

The newest vaccine booster to combat COVID-19 was approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration Sept. 15 for everyone age six months and older. For seniors who may have received a booster earlier in the year, this is a new booster that offers better protection against the omicron subvariant XBB.1.5.

While new variants have been shown to be better at infecting people and evading existing immunity, the CDC reports that vaccines greatly reduce the risk of hospitalization and death in people who are

Clockwise: Shingles vaccine. PHOTO COURTESY GLAXOSMITHKLINE. Seniors should visit their doctor every three to six months. PHOTO CREDIT METRO. COVID vaccine. PHOTO CREDIT PIXABAY

up to date on COVID vaccination.

According to the CDC the national death rate for COVID-19 declined in 2022 and 2023 to date because of improvement treatment in medical care, as well as widespread vaccinations.

Rai said seniors can get both the flu vaccine and the new COVID-19 booster in the same visit.

“While it is safe to get both shots at the same time if you have had reactions in the past to multiple vaccinations, I would recommend spacing them out,” he said.

Shingles Vaccine

Rai said seniors should also be sure to get the new two-shot shingles vaccine, Shingrix.

“As our immunity wanes it is easier for shingles to come out,” said Rai. “As we age one in three people will eventually get shingles and of that number one in 200 will get a shingles infection where the pain will remain for the rest of your life.”

CDC recommends that adults 50 years and older get two doses of the shingles vaccine called Shingrix (recombinant zoster vaccine) to prevent shingles and the complications from the disease.

Shingles is a viral infection that causes a painful rash. Shingles can occur anywhere on your body.

The National Institute of Health has reported a slight increased risk of Guillain-Barré Syndrome after vaccination with Shingrix. The study found an estimated three cases of Guillain-Barré Syndrome per million vaccinations administered in adults aged 65 and older.

“There are some side effects reported with the vaccine,” said Rai. “Pain at site of injection, headache and less than two percent experience nausea.

But when you compare the risks to the benefits, the benefits definitely outweigh the risks.”

New RSV Vaccine

It’s easy to overlook the need for the new RSV vaccine approved in May 2023 for individuals 60 years of age or older.

Until recently, many people had never heard of RSV or they considered it a virus that primarily afflicted infants and young children.

“RSV used to be very prevalent, especially in the pediatric population, and especially during the winter,” said Rai. “Typically, we did not see hospitalizations with older folks.

However, according to Rai the RSV virus has “mutated,” or become adapted, to infecting more older people, posing more of a threat to seniors.

“The RSV vaccine has been shown to be very effective of preventing hospitalizations,” he said.

Rai described the RSV virus as becoming more “violent” in recent years with increased hospitalization numbers for seniors.

“I would recommend getting the RSV vaccine when you can,” he said. “It has been shown to be very effective.”

General Health Tips

Rai encourages seniors to check in with their primary care physicians every three to six months to make sure vaccines, labs, prescriptions and other metrics are up to date.

“It’s important for your primary care doctor to see if there are any changes,” he said.

Rai also advised seniors to share their medical status with family members.

Controlling weight, blood pressure, diabetes and increasing movement and exercise are also advised to for overall health and longevity.

“Stay active and ask your doctors honestly about issues you are concerned about,” he said. 

8 · S U N D AYS I G N A L

O C TO B E R 22, 2023

FROM THE CITY MANAGER

State of the City 2023 — Event Extravaganza

By Ken Striplin Santa Clarita City Manager

S

anta Clarita is more than just a City; it’s an experience. It’s where families thrive, businesses prosper and community spirit is strong. You don’t need to look further than the City’s roster of top-tier events to see why. Be it the rhythmic tunes at Concerts in the Park, the ole’ west vibes of the Cowboy Festival or the glow of Light Up Main Street, Santa Clarita always promises a good time.

This culture of celebration and progress forms the theme for the much-anticipated State of the City annual event. Scheduled for Thursday, October 26, at 3 p.m. at the Canyon Country Community Center, the theme for this year is “Event Extravaganza.”

Attendees will get to see and hear highlights of all the world-class events offered in our City throughout the year. In addition, this is a platform for residents to hear directly from their City Council. This year, attendees can anticipate insights into significant achievements from the past year and a sneak peek into exciting future initiatives.

From the intricacies of public safety and financial budgeting to the unveiling of new park projects, the City Council aims to provide a comprehensive overview of what exciting things are on the horizon for our community. They will also share updates on upcoming City amenities, such as the state-of-theart roller rink, the new Valencia Community Center and the work toward adding William S. Hart Park to the City’s park system.

If you are interested in learning more about the work the City of Santa Clarita does on behalf of our residents every day — this is an event not to be missed.

But the State of the City is not all business. In true Santa Clarita style, it ensures that attendees are both informed and entertained. Along with City updates, guests can look forward to the final video of the afternoon which will provide an amusing glimpse into our City Council enjoying Santa Clarita festivities. As a token of our appreciation for the community’s continued support and involvement, attendees will receive a special commemorative gift. Following the event, guests will get to join the City Council on the terrace for appetizers and happy hour, complete with live music.

There are still a handful of tickets left for this popular annual event. Tickets are $40 per person which includes the appetizers, drinks and memento. Details regarding ticket purchases can be found on the City’s new website, SantaClarita.gov.

State of the City is more than an event — it’s a celebration. A celebration of past achievements, future possibilities and the spirit of a community that makes Santa Clarita one of the best cities in the Nation to live, work and play. I look forward to seeing you at the 2023 State of the City Event Extravaganza!

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

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O C TO B E R 22, 2023

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 9

FOOD

Scary-Cute Desserts Sure To Thrill

By Mackenzie Filson Delish.com

H

ere at Delish, we take Halloween scary seriously. Why? It’s one of the only holidays where you can make terrifyingly cute desserts to share with friends and family. What could be better?

Whether you’re into spooky, silly or a delicious mix of both, there’s a scare level — and flavor preference — for everyone. Here are two thrilling dessert reciples sure to put the “treat” in trick or treat!

For a complete selection of 60 different Halloween desserts, visit delish.com.

It’s The Great Bundt-kin, Charlie Brown Yields 20 - 24 serving(s) Prep Time 20 mins Cook Time 1 hr 40 mins Total Time 4 hrs 40 mins

Ingredients Cake

Cooking spray 2 (15.25-oz.) boxes white or yellow cake mix, divided 2 (3.4-oz.) boxes instant vanilla or pumpkin pudding, divided 2 (3.4-oz.) boxes instant vanilla or pumpkin pudding, divided 8 large eggs, divided 2 c. pumpkin puree, divided 2/3 c. vegetable oil, divided 1/2 c. sour cream, divided 3 tsp. pumpkin pie spice, divided 2 tsp. pure vanilla extract, divided

Assembly 2 1/2

c. plus 3 tbsp. store-bought vanilla or cream cheese frosting (from 2 [16-oz.] containers), divided

Orange and green food coloring 1 cake ice cream cone

Green and orange sprinkles and Halloween candy, for decorating (optional)

Equipment Needed 2 to 3

(12”) dowels or straws (optional)

Directions Preheat oven to 350° and generously grease a 12-cup Bundt pan with cooking spray. In a large bowl, using an electric mixer on low speed (or the large bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the whisk attachment), beat 1 box cake mix, 1 box pudding, 4 eggs, 1 cup pumpkin puree, 1/3 cup oil, 1/4 cup sour cream, 1 1/2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice, 1 teaspoon vanilla, and 1/2 cup water until combined. Scrape bottom and sides of bowl and beat to incorporate.

Pour batter into prepared pan; smooth top with a rubber spatula.

Bake cake until a tester inserted into the center comes out clean, 40 to 50 minutes. Let cool in pan 15 minutes, then invert onto a wire rack and let cool completely.

Wipe out pan. Repeat process with remaining 1 box cake mix, 1 box instant pudding, 4 eggs, 1 cup pumpkin puree, 1/3 cup oil, 1/4 cup sour cream, 1 1/2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, and 1/2 cup water.

Assembly Spoon 1 3/4 cups frosting into a heatproof 2-cup measuring cup, then add orange food coloring and mix until desired shade is reached.

Using a large serrated knife, level rounded bottoms of cooled cakes. Arrange one cake on a platter smooth side up, then spread with 3/4 cup orange frosting. Place second cake on top, adjusting until edges are aligned. Secure with dowels (if using), trimming if needed. Refrigerate 15 minutes.

Meanwhile, in a small bowl, mix 3 tablespoons frosting and green food coloring until desired shade is reached. Spread green frosting over ice cream cone. Decorate with green sprinkles (if using).

Microwave remaining orange frosting in 3-second increments, stirring between each, until just pourable, about 10 seconds total. Slowly pour orange frosting over cake in a circular motion, creating a

drip effect. Decorate with orange sprinkles (if using).

Fill holes of cakes with candy (if using). Place frosted ice cream cone upside down on top of cake.

Mummy Pops

Yields 8 Prep Time 20 mins Total Time 1 hr 40 mins

Ingredients

8 straws or lollipop sticks 11 oz. chocolate, melted 8 Nutter Butters, opened 1 c. buttercream frosting (homemade or store bought)

M&M’s Minis, for decorating

Directions Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Lightly dip straws or lollipop sticks into chocolate before topping on open Nutter Butter. Press cookie back together, then dip into melted chocolate until completely coated. (Allow excess chocolate to drip back into pan.)

Place dipped cookie onto prepared baking sheet to set, about 25 minutes (to speed up the process, transfer pops to the refrigerator for 10 minutes).

Fill a pastry bag fitted with a straight flat tip with buttercream and pipe from side to side. Fill another bag with chocolate, lightly cover backside of M&M’s minis, and press onto cookie pops. Dot each M&M with chocolate to finish eyes.

Set aside at least 1 hour to fully set.



1 0 · S U N D AYS I G N A L

O C TO B E R 22, 2023

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

Fictionalized Telling of a True-Life Landmark Case

gives him a warning, telling him to “tread lightly” before proceeding with his confrontational and over-the-top ‘The Burial style of questioning. (out of four) As we’re reminded in the obligatory Prime Video presents a film directed end credits telling us what happened

by Maggie Betts and written by Betts to the main characters, this is a true and Doug Wright, based on an article story, based on a 1999 New Yorker

by Jonathan Harr. Rated R. Streaming article of the same name by Jonathan on Prime Video.

Harr. In the hands of director and co-writer Maggie Betts (with Doug t’s fitting that the crowd-pleasWright co-writing the script) and an ing and enormously entertainensemble of perfectly cast and briling “The Burial” is set in the liant actors, what we get is a highly mid-1990s, as this fictionalized stylized version of the truth that nevtelling of a true-life landmark legal er misses the opportunity to pause atres • Santa Clarita Signal case is reminiscent of the courtadsource@exhibitorads.com proceedings for a timely lecture, and room dramas from the time, e.g., “A p. 888.737.2812 f. 203.438.1206 5.9” often resorts to heavy-handed visual Few Good Men” (1992), “Philadel22-26, 2023PHOTOS COURTESY IMDB cues reminding us that while this pardate: Sunday-Thursday, phia” (1993), “The PelicanOctober Brief ” ticular case doesn’t seem to be about (1993), “A Time toOctober Kill” (1996), boyant attorney, you know a delivery date: Tuesday, 17,“Pri2023 at 10:34:33 AMwhere CASCS_LEM1022-1026.qxp race on the surface, you better believe mal Fear” (1996), “The Rainmaker” surprise witness will be discovered it’s about race.

(1997), et al. just when all hope seems to be lost, (Cut to the shot of Johnnie CoThis is the kind of movie where the where the lead counsel for the unchran on the TV in the hotel bar, in spectators in the courtroom burst derdog client will engage in histrionthe midst of defending O.J. Simpson, into applause after one particularly ics that would put him in contempt as two Black attorneys with very difrousing piece of theater from a flamof court IRL — but the judge merely ferent approaches to the law engage in a spirited debate about their respective career choices.)

A couple of pitch-perfect openers TM introduce us to our two main characters. Jamie Foxx brings his boundless charisma and screen-commanding, movie-star presence to the role 22500 Lyons Ave. info Line 310.478.3836 of Willie E. Gary, a Southern Baptist personal injury attorney who delivers fire-and-brimstone sermons in DICKS: THE MUSICAL E 1:30 4:00 7:00 church on Sunday before heading Two self-obsessed businessmen discover they’re long-lost identical twins and come together to plot the reunion of their eccentric divorced parents, in this riotously funny and depraved musical from comedy icon Larry Charles. back to a life so glamorous — from KILLERS OF THE FLOWER MOON E 1:20 6:30 the Florida mansion to the goldBased on David Grann’s broadly lauded best-selling book, “Killers of the Flower Moon” is set in 1920s Oklahoma and depicts the serial murder of rimmed glasses to the flashy suits members of the oil-wealthy Osage Nation, a string of brutal crimes that came to be known as the Reign of Terror.

MALIBU HORROR STORY Sun: 4:30 PM; Mon: 1:30 4:30; Tue: 1:30 4:30 7:30; Wed: 1:30 4:30 to the private jet dubbed “Wings of 7:10; Thu: 1:30 4:30 Justice” — that he’s been featured on ?Terror strikes when a team of paranormal investigators search a sacred cave for clues in the unsolved disappearance of four local teens.

“Lifestyles of the Rich & Famous.”

JOAN BAEZ I AM A NOISE Sun: 10:00 AM Meanwhile, in a bucolic stretch Facing the end of a 60-year career, legendary singer and activist Joan Baez takes an honest look back and a deep look inward as she tries to make sense of her large, history-making life, and the personal struggles she’s kept private, until now. of Biloxi, Mississippi, the low-key, TAYLOR SWIFT: THE ERAS TOUR C Thu: 7:00 PM; Sun: 1:00 7:00 warmhearted and universally respectThe cultural phenomenon continues on the big screen! Immerse yourself in this once-in-a-lifetime concert film experience with a breathtaking, ed Jeremiah “Jerry” O’Keefe (Tomcinematic view of the history-making tour. my Lee Jones) is celebrating his 75th THE EXORCIST: BELIEVER E 1:10 4:20 7:10 Since the death of his wife, Victor Fielding has raised their daughter, Angela on his own. But when Angela and a friend disappear in the woods, only to birthday, surrounded by his loving return three days later with no memory of what happened to them, it unleashes a chain of events that will force Victor to confront the nadir of evil. wife, Annette (Pamela Reed), his 13 COMMON GROUND Sun: 10:20 AM children and dozens of grandchil‘Common Ground’ exposes the toxic interconnections of American farming policy, politics, and health PAW PATROL: THE MIGHTY MOVIE B Sun: 10:10 1:10 4:30 7:30; Mon & Tue: 1:10 4:30 7:30; dren.

Wed: 1:10 4:30; Thu: 1:10 4:30 7:30 As the owner of a legacy family When a magical meteor crash lands in Adventure City, it gives the PAW Patrol pups superpowers, transforming them into The MIGHTY PUPS! business that includes eight funeral MY BIG FAT GREEK WEDDING 3 C Sun: 10:00 AM homes and a burial insurance firm, Join the Portokalos family as they travel to a family reunion in Greece for a heartwarming and hilarious trip full of love, twists and turns.

Jerry is proud to have built someMUTINY IN HEAVEN: THE BIRTHDAY PARTY Wed: 7:30 PM Narrated exclusively by the original band members, the film delves deep into a band’s psyche, chronicling how Nick Cave and his school friends startled thing he can hand down to his family audiences with their confrontational performances, primal screams, outlaw gothic horror, and anarchic lifestyle — but when Jerry runs into financial FOR 10/22/202310/26/2023 ONLY WWW.LAEMMLE.COM trouble, he finds himself having to

By Richard Roeper Signal Contributing Writer



I

NEWHALL

Bringing the Finest in Film to the SCV!

make a deal with the Canadian billionaire Ray Loewen, who has been gobbling up independently owned funeral home businesses all over the United States and then exploiting the poorest clients in their most trying times. Boooo, hisss, this Loewen guy is the worst, and Bill Camp does a magnificent job as our story’s villain.

When Loewen’s company reneges on the deal and seems hell-bent on forcing Jerry into bankruptcy, Jerry sues for breach of contract.

Convinced his longtime friend and attorney, Mike (Alan Ruck), with his air of privileged, white, not-so-subtle bigotry, isn’t the right fit for the case, Jerry takes the advice of his junior counsel, Hal (Mamoudou Athie), and hires Willie and his team of sharks to take on the case. Loewen counters by bringing in a hotshot legal superstar in one Mame Downes (Jurnee Smollett).

Now we’ve got all the players in place and it’s time to get down to the courtroom theatrics, the surprise revelations, the timely interludes in which Jerry and Willie bond, the reminders that we’re in the Deep South and that seemingly peaceful field over there is actually an unmarked cemetery for hundreds of slaves.

There is never a moment when “The Burial” underplays its hand, and there are times when the story veers far away from the main battle, as when there’s a shocking courtroom revelation about the grandfather of one of the main characters — a revelation that has absolutely nothing, zero, to do with the case. Still, Oscar winners Jamie Foxx and Tommy Lee Jones are as great as you’d expect them to be, while Jurnee Smollet and Mamoudou Athie are equally impressive. (It comes as no surprise to learn Athie started his career onstage; at just 25, he has the presence and the chops of a Broadway force.)

On the surface, “The Burial” is about a contract dispute between a white small business owner and a white billionaire. Soon, though, it becomes about much more than that, and the result is a thoroughly entertaining, old-fashioned yet timely courtroom thriller.  Copyright 2022 Chicago Sun-Times

O C TO B E R 22, 2023

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 1 1

Unraveling the Mystery of Thread Counts

HOME

M

any companies use thread count to make their sheets more appealing and luxurious, but a bigger number doesn’t always mean a good buy.

Before you reach into your wallet, consider these truths about thread counts.

A thread count is a scientific term with strict federal standards on how the threads are counted.

Simply put, it measures the number of threads woven together per square inch, counted lengthwise and widthwise. A 400-thread count sheet will have 200 threads lengthwise and 200 widthwise.

When a sheet has a count of 150, it is considered a muslin fabric, which isn’t all that soft to the touch. Any count of 180 or above is considered high quality, but anything beyond 400 is likely to only signify a higher price tag.

However, a sheet with a thread count of 200 can be softer to the touch than one with a 400 thread count. The quality of sheets depends not only on the thread count, but on the quality of fibers within those threads as well. Many stores and manufacturers tout Egyptian cotton as the best because of its long, strong fibers, which are more durable than most other cottons. Another high-quality cotton type is pima, also known for

PHOTO COURTESY OF UNSPLASH

its extra-long fibers.

When shopping for new sheets, make sure you are looking at both the thread count and the quality. Look for a count between 200-400 and make sure the fabric quality is high to ensure you get the

best bang for your buck, as well as a comfortable night’s sleep.

Find more tips for selecting linens and other home goods at eLivingtoday.com. (Family Features) 

1 2 · S U N D AYS I G N A L

O C TO B E R 15, 2023

H E A LT H

Understanding the Basics of Early-Onset Alzheimer’s

T

he National Institute on Aging defines Alzheimer’s disease as a brain disorder that slowly destroys memory and an individual’s ability to think. The majority of individuals diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease are 60 and older, which can give the impression that the disorder is exclusive to the elderly.

However, younger adults are not immune to the disease, and a small percentage of individuals under 60 could be diagnosed with early-onset Alzheimer’s.

The prevalence of early-onset, or young-onset, Alzheimer’s is unknown. However, early-onset Alzheimer’s can affect every aspect of a young person’s life, including their relationships, finances and ability to live independently. Such consequences underscore the significance of greater recognition of the condition and what it entails.

Early-Onset Alzheimer’s

histories of the disease and may know several relatives, in addition to a parent, who were affected at a similar age.

Risk Factors

Though people who develop early-onset Alzheimer’s disease are most likely to be diagnosed with the common form of the condition, family history of the disease remains the only known risk factor.

Symptoms

The experts at Johns Hopkins Medicine note that Alzheimer’s disease is the most common form of dementia and it most often affects older individuals.

But in rare cases individuals un-

der 60 can develop Alzheimer’s, and Johns Hopkins notes such instances generally affect people in their 40s and 50s. Most types of early-onset Alzheimer’s disease are the same, but cases may be categorized as common or genetic Alzheimer’s.

Common Johns Hopkins notes that most people with early-onset Alzheimer’s have the common form of the disease, which progresses in much the same way as it does in older individuals.

Genetic In rare cases, a young person may be diagnosed with genetic, or familial, Alzheimer’s. The United Kingdom-based Alzheimer’s Society notes that this is caused by genetic mutations that run in families. The risk that this mutation will be passed from parents to children is 50%. Individuals who develop genetic Alzheimer’s typically have lengthy family

The Alzheimer’s Association® notes that health care providers do not generally look for Alzheimer’s in young people, which can make the process of diagnosing the condition long and frustrating. Symptoms are often attributed to other factors, such as stress. However, Johns Hopkins reports that the presence of these symptoms could indicate a person is in the early stages of early-onset Alzheimer’s: • Forgetting important things, particularly newly learned information or important dates • Asking for the same information again and again • Trouble solving basic problems, such as keeping track of bills or following a favorite recipe • Losing track of the date or time of year • Losing track of where you are and how you got there • Trouble with depth perception or other vision problems • Trouble joining conversations or finding the right word for something

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• Increasingly poor judgment

• Changes in mood and personality Symptoms such as memory loss and changes, including severe mood swings, are some of the signs that present as early-onset Alzheimer’s progresses.

Early-onset Alzheimer’s is a rare disorder. But its effects can be just as significant as forms of the disease that affect older individuals. (MC) 

O C TO B E R 22, 2023

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 1 3

GARDENING

I

Protecting Your Deck So It Will Last Longer

ommended wait times between cleaning and staining. Thompson’s WaterSeal Wood Sealers require waiting 48 hours before applying deck coating.

f you have a deck, it’s probably one of your favorite — and most used — spaces, especially when it’s warm outside.

But time, usage and weather can all take their toll on your family hangout spot. The good news is, even if you’re a novice DIYer, it’s easy to protect your deck and keep it looking great in just a few simple steps, and doing the job yourself can save money and help you avoid more work on it in the future.

Now is a great time to clean, stain and seal your deck. Here’s how to ensure the job is done well.

1. Check your deck When was the last time you assessed the condition of your deck?

Look for issues like dirt, mildew, algae or old stain coating that’s peeling — plus damaged, cracked or warped wood that may need to be replaced.

Try the “splash test” — splash a little water on the deck and watch how quickly the water is absorbed. If the water is rapidly absorbed into the wood, that means it’s no longer protected from the elements and needs attention.

2. Clean it up While you might be tempted to rent a power washer to clean your deck, it’s not recommended, as power washing can damage wood — especially if you’re inexperienced in using this tool. Instead, choose a deck cleaner designed specifically to clean decks in preparation for staining and sealing.

If you see dirt and stains but no coating peeling off, an exterior cleaner like Thompson’s WaterSeal Heavy Duty Deck Cleaner will work on any type of wood. If you see old peeling coating, however, Thompson’s WaterSeal Maximum Strength Deck Stripper is the strongest option to help remove old stain.

Make sure to follow the instructions on whatever product you use for cleaning your deck, and don’t forget the rails or benches. If you have several boards that vary in color, a solid color stain would get you a more consistent color, transparent stains will show more wood grain, and semi-transparent stains add more color and protection while keeping some of the wood grain visible.

4. Maintain your beautiful new deck To help ensure that your deck stays looking great even longer, keep your deck free of leaves, dust, dirt and snow. Visually check your deck for trouble spots and do the “splash test” every year, so it will stay in good condition as long as possible.

Using these tips, you should be able to protect and revitalize your deck so you and your family can continue enjoying it for years to come.

3. Refresh and protect Once your deck is cleaned, you can start to envision the effect you want.

Would you like to see more natural wood grain, a little grain, or almost none? Design experts often choose a dark or light deck color to provide a strong contrast to the color of the home’s exterior. You can also use different color stain on the railings and benches of your deck for visual interest. If you’re unsure what look you want, try a small sample area first to see how it appears once the stain is dry.

To make staining and protecting your deck easier, Thompson’s WaterSeal products provide year-round protection in just one coat — with specialized water-beading formulas to help prevent water damage. Choose from four stain and wood sealer products depending on the look you want: Clear Wood Sealer shows all wood grain, Transparent Wood Sealer shows the most wood grain, Semi-Transparent Wood Sealer shows some wood grain and Solid Color Wood Sealer shows little wood grain.

Measuring your deck, including railings and benches, helps you determine the amount of stain you’ll need.

Read the product instructions carefully before using. You’ll find useful information including weather guidelines and recommended temperature ranges for application. For example,

it’s best to avoid windy and rainy days as well as high temps when your deck boards are very hot.

Also check product labels for rec-

Pro tip You can seal and protect other surfaces in your outdoor space beyond decks and fences, including concrete and stone patio pavers, using products like Thompson’s Multi-Surface Waterproofer.

Ready to get started? Learn more about how to protect your deck at ThompsonsWaterSeal.com.

(BPT) 

1 4 · S U N D AYS I G N A L

O C TO B E R 22, 2023

PETS

Canine Parvovirus Signs and Preventions

D

og owners routinely go to great lengths to ensure man’s best friend is well taken care of. That readiness to do whatever it takes to make dogs happy is a testament to how much joy dogs bring to their owners.

Many dogs may go their entire lives without a notable illness, but when a condition arises, owners take action quickly. That quickness can make the difference between life and death, but education about prevention is equally important. Such is the case with canine parvovirus, a potentially deadly virus that all dog owners should become familiar with.

What is canine parvovirus?

The American Veterinary Medical Association notes that canine parvovirus (CPV) is a highly contagious virus that affects the gastrointestinal tracts of dogs.

How is canine parvovirus spread?

Often referred to as “parvo,” CPV is

spread by direct dog-to-dog contact and contact with contaminated feces, environments or people. The AVMA™ reports that CPV can be transmitted from place to place on the hair or feet of dogs or through contact with contaminated objects, such as cages and shoes.

What are the signs of CPV?

The College of Veterinary Medicine at Cornell University notes that various symptoms are indicative of the presence of CPV. Such symptoms include Lethargy, Depression and/or loss or lack of appetite.

As CPV progresses, the symptoms noted above may be followed by the sudden onset of a high fever, vomiting and diarrhea. The College of Veterinary Medicine notes that bloody diarrhea and/or vomiting could be indicative of a number of conditions, including CPV. The presence of any of these symptoms should be reported to a veterinarian immediately.

Can CPV be prevented?

The College of Veterinary Medicine strongly urges all pet owners to have their dogs vaccinated against CPV. Such vaccinations have helped to dramatically reduce instances of CPV, though that does not mean the virus does not still pose a threat to unvaccinated dogs, particularly puppies.

In fact, the AVMA notes that puppies are highly susceptible to CPV infection because the natural immunity in their mothers’ milk may wear off before the dogs’ immune systems have matured enough to sufficiently combat infection.

Puppies can become ill during the period when the immunity from mothers’ milk has waned and they have yet to be vaccinated. Even vaccinated puppies can become ill if the immunity from mothers’ milk has not worn off, as the AVMA suggests this might be because the immunity provided by the mothers’ milk is interfering with the dog’s re-

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sponse to vaccination.

That does not mean puppy owners should delay vaccination. In fact, the AVMA urges puppy owners whose dogs have already been vaccinated against CPV to arrange for their animals to receive a second dose between 14 and 16 weeks of age.

That second dose ensures adequate protection against CPV and serves as a safeguard just in case the immunity from mothers’ milk interfered with the initial dose of vaccine.

Open dialogue with a veterinarian can help pet owners protect dogs against CPV as the dog ages. This is an essential component of CPV prevention, which also should entail prompt and proper disposal of waste to reduce the risk that dogs are contaminated with the virus.

Vaccination can help prevent infection with CPV, but pet owners should remain vigilant throughout their dogs’ lives to safeguard them against this potentially deadly virus.

(MC) 

O C TO B E R 22, 2023

A SECOND WIND

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 1 5

SENIORLIVING

Things Fall Apart

By Mary Sortino Petersen Signal Staff Writer

I

read an article last week entitled “Aging: What Happens When You Get Older.” I’ll tell you what happens.

Things start falling apart. Seniors, are you feeling this way? That the older we get, the more time it takes to keep body and mind functioning adequately.

Remember those days when you could wake up in the morning and jump out of bed without checking to see that the knees are working. When you could scan the newspaper without having to hunt for glasses? When bumping into a cabinet did not produce a nasty bruise?

Now we need to schedule appointments with dermatologists, orthopedists, ophthalmologists and gastroenterologists just to sort through all the limitations we are adjusting to.

I recently tried contacts to improve my close reading which is a blur at this point. But adequately correcting the close vision diminished the distance vision. “Your cataracts are hindering the correction you want contacts to give you. I think you should try glasses,” said my optometrist. But the reason I want contacts is that I hate grabbing for glasses all day long, and I don’t welcome the idea of sporting an old lady eyeglass chain around my neck to keep track of them. Oh wait. I am an old lady.

The ophthalmologist said, “Pretty soon we will remove your cataracts and your vision will improve.” So here I am in the tenuous position of muddling along blindly, searching for glasses, while awaiting cataract surgery “pretty soon.”

Morning and evening routines take longer as we add our age interventions. I extended the time I spend caring for my teeth and gums. According the CDC, 25% of adults over 65 have no natural teeth. I feared I was headed in this direction when my dentist cautioned me about gum grafts and receding gum lines.

With forbearance and resignation, I’ve scheduled extra hygienist

appointments and spend time using gadgets that my dentist suggested optimize dental hygiene.

Little by little, pesky conditions creep up and require our attention.

Joints do not glide as they used to. We can’t hear the TV well enough. Our digestive system starts acting funny.

Sleep becomes more difficult, and we may not have the energy we used to.

It takes time to check blood pressure and cholesterol, organize morning and evening medications, take vitamins, apply dermatological ointments, or set up CPAP machines.

But our physical health impacts our thoughts and emotions. Taking care of ourselves physically helps us feel less stressed and anxious which in turn benefits the body.

Despite the inconvenience, being committed to having a healthy, active lifestyle requires monitoring our aging bodies. Scheduling hearing tests, cancer screenings, colonoscopies, bone density scans, and dermatological checks of moles and brown spots keeps us busy, but these routine screenings provide us important information.

It’s no wonder that at our age, our conversations with older adults often drift into symptoms we’re having, tests we’ve taken and what the results indicate. I laugh at the stereotype of old people jabbering about their health issues because I have become it.

Mary Sortino Petersen is a retired COC English instructor, 30-year SCV resident, and two-time breast cancer survivor. She welcomes your comments at asecondwind.signal@gmail.com

B R E A ST C A N C E R AWA R E N E S S M O N T H This Breast Cancer Awareness Month, remember that your well-being goes beyond pink ribbons.

At Advanced Audiology, we’re urging you to listen to your body and your surroundings.

Don’t neglect your hearing health while supporting breast health! Schedule a FREE hearing assessment with us today, and let’s ensure you’re living life to the fullest.

Together, let’s raise awareness and take action for both hearing and breast health.

Advanced Audiology is raising awareness among patients, and local communities about breast cancer which affects 1 in 8 women in the U.S. Nola Aronson is a 20 year breast cancer survivor herself, so this cause is personal and close to her heart.

Nola Aronson, M.A., CCC-A

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1 6 · S U N D AYS I G N A L

O C TO B E R 22, 2023

FINANCE

Building a Nest Egg in a Time Marked By a High Cost Of Living

A

rise in the cost of living has presented challenges to millions of households across the globe. As the cost of everything from food to natural gas to fuel for vehicles has risen, many people have struggled to find ways to save money, especially for their long-term goals like retirement.

The term “nest egg” has long been associated with long-term financial goals like retirement savings or college tuition. But what are individuals to do if short-term costs get in the way of their longterm goals? There’s no magic formula for building a nest egg, but these tips can help anyone grow their savings despite the high cost of living.

• Identify a specific, achievable goal. Simply resolving to save “more” without attaching a figure that defines what “more” is can make it hard to build a substantial nest egg. Examine your finances, including what’s coming in each month (i.e., takehome wages) and what has to go out each month (i.e, housing and automotive costs, etc.). Document these expenses and then identify an achievable goal to build your nest egg. If necessary, trim some fat related to monthly expenses that are not necessities so you can redirect funds to your nest egg. Cancel streaming services or cut back on dining out so

of living on a budget may seem simple, but it’s less common than some may recognize. A 2023 survey from the online financial resource NerdWallet found that 83% of the more than 2,000 adults 18 and over who participated acknowledged they overspend. Perhaps more telling is that 84% of respondents indicate they have a monthly budget but exceed it anyway. Individuals who want to build a sizable nest egg are urged to work with a financial advisor to devise a monthly budget and then stick to it. those funds can be redirected to building a nest egg.

• Take advantage of pre-tax opportunities to save.

Pre-tax opportunities to build a nest include retirement vehicles like a 401(k). With these plans, money is deducted from a paycheck before taxes, thus lowering workers’ immediate tax burdens (taxes are paid when funds are withdrawn) and enabling them to save more now. Some employers even match contributions up to a predetermined percentage, so enrolling in plans that offer employer match contributions can be an especially effective way to build a nest egg.

• Begin living on a budget, and stick to it. The idea

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• Save for emergencies. A lack of emergency funds can quickly jeopardize a nest egg. Without a somewhat sizable savings account, individuals could be forced to borrow from their retirement accounts in emergency situations. That strategy hurts in more ways than one, as it both reduces the amount in the nest egg and also affects how much the nest egg can grow, as gains are greater when balances are higher. The NerdWallet survey found that 48% of respondents want to prioritize emergency savings, and that strategy can be vital to building a nest egg.

A sizable nest egg can help anyone live comfortably in retirement, and various strategies can help people grow their nest egg even as the cost of living remains high. (MC) 

O C TO B E R 22, 2023

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 1 7

CELEBRITYNEWS tor racing against time to stop an Ebola virus outbreak in “The Hot Zone.”

Most recently, she returned as Reese Witherspoon’s ex-girlfriend and co-anchor in the Apple TV+ drama series “The Morning Show.” Margulies once said that the character is a cross between Diane Sawyer and Rachel Maddow. As for any other upcoming projects, it surely won’t be long before Margulies is asked to headline a new series, but for now, she seems content making a big impact in smaller roles.

saw a commercial with Julianna Q IMargulies in a new series. Did “The Good Wife” end? What is her new show?

— J.K.

A

“The Good Wife” was a smash hit series for CBS, but it’s been long gone, having ended its run in 2016 after seven seasons. It spawned a successful spin-off series called “The Good Fight,” starring Christine Baranski, and has another spin-off in the works called “Elsbeth.” It will star Carrie Preston as “the astute but unconventional attorney” who fans will recall from the same role she played on “The Good Fight.”

As for Margulies, she is one of television’s most acclaimed and em-

Julianna Margulies in “The Morning Show.” PHOTO CREDIT APPLE TV+

ployable actresses, having turned a one-episode guest role on NBC’s “ER” into an Emmy award-winning one that lasted six seasons. In recent years, she’s accepted parts that have allowed her to stretch her already impressive range. She played an abrasive fashion magazine editor in the AMC series “Dietland,” followed by a doc-

is Priscilla Presley been Q How doing since the unexpected

death of her daughter, Lisa Marie?

— G.G.

A

Priscilla and Lisa Marie Presley attended the Golden Globe Awards together this past January to support Austin Butler in his nominated role (he won!) in the feature film “Elvis.” Just two days later, Lisa Marie was rushed to the hospital with a bowel obstruction that would claim her life. Her mother, Priscilla, issued

BookTrib’s Bites Four Unforgettable Reads Dying for a Second Chance

By Jenn Chapman

Someone has been killing and dumping women on the Shoalwater Bay Reservation in Washington State.

In Dying For a Second Chance, a psychological thriller with a supernatural twist, Sergeant Rod Kills On Top investigates a car crash which leads him to details that may help solve the murders. As he works with Jessica, a survivor of the crash, he begins to suspect that her husband may be the killer.

Jessica keeps her true identity, and what she knows, a secret because if she tells the truth she is likely to die — again! This tight and taut detective story, embedded in an indigenous setting, invites the reader to reflect on the “spirit world” that co-exists within the terrestrial world, where the “hereafter” and the “here-and-now” intersect.

Life After Love

By Lorraine Cover

Kate Covington wants two things — to finally get on with her life three years after the passing of her husband, and to experience the passion she hopes to instill in her writing that will fulfill her desire to be an author of steamy short stories.

Setting sail on a cruise hoping to do just that, she crosses paths with cocky, sexy, and much younger Luca Bell’Angelo, licking his wounds after yet another failed relationship.

When her fear of letting go sends her into retreat mode, they come to a platonic agreement to help each other. Luca’s expertise will help Kate spice up her writing, and Kate’s take on life will help Luca uncover why the love he longs for has been so elusive.

But once their relationship moves past the platonic stage, their lives are changed in ways neither expected.

Madame Pommery

By Rebecca Rosenberg

A story of a woman’s indomitable spirit in the face of insurmountable

a statement shortly thereafter and asked for privacy for her “profound loss.”

Now, almost a year later, Priscilla herself will be the subject of a film directed by Sofia Coppola, daughter of Francis Ford Coppola (“The Godfather”) and Oscar winner for her screenplay of the 2003 film “Lost in Translation.”

“Priscilla,” which will premiere in theaters on Nov. 3, stars Cailee Spaeny (“Mare of Easttown”) as the titular character. Coppola says that she really connected with the young Priscilla who was thrust into stardom seemingly overnight and how impressed she was when Priscilla later left her marriage with Elvis.

As for how Priscilla is doing, she’ll likely speak more about it in upcoming interviews for her biographical film, which she helped co-write.  © 2023 King Features Synd., Inc.

BOOKREVIEW

odds. Set in Champagne, France in 1860, Madame Pommery is a 40-yearold widow and etiquette teacher whose husband has died. Now she must find a way to support her family.

With no experience, she decides to make champagne, but no champagne makers will teach her their craft.

Undeterred, she begins to secretly excavate champagne caves under the Reims city dump and faces numerous obstacles. From the Franco-Prussian war that conscripts her son and crew to the Prussian General Frederick Franz occupying her home, she perseveres. She even must choose between her champagne dreams and a marriage proposal from a Scottish Baron.

Inspired by a true story, Madame Pommery is a heroic tale of a woman’s strength and determination to create a champagne legacy.

BookBites is presented by BookTrib. com. 

1 8 · S U N D AYS I G N A L

S E P T E M B E R 24, 2023

PUZZLES CROSSWORD TIME

SOLUTIONS

O C TO B E R 22, 2023

Opinion

S U N D AY S I G N A L · 1 9

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

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

C O M M E N TA R Y

U.S. with Its Open Border What About the Evil?

‘So Far’ Avoids Mass Terror

By David Hegg

By Joe Guzzardi

T

he U.S. has been lucky since 9/11. Despite open borders, the country has so far avoided another major attack. The operative words are “so far.”

Look at the large number of unvetted people flooding into America, and the surprising reality is the nation has avoided an attack. August numbers from the Department of Homeland Security are the latest publicly available data and show an all-time record number of illegal alien border encounters.

In all, the number of known aliens who entered unlawfully and are still living in the U.S. under temporary or conditional status is a record 3.6 million. President Joe Biden’s administration, in violation of immigration law, uses humanitarian parole as a major component of its lawless border abuse. Parole, which includes work authorization, is intended for emergency case-by-case bases, and not for collectively greenlighting thousands of illegal immigrants.

When analyzing the unprotected border, and the terrorism threat it represents, add “no one knows” to “so far.” Since the arriving aliens are unvetted – their histories, intentions and current locations unknown – “no one knows” sums up what the future may bring. The migrant-sending nations include countries that have unbending anti-American sentiments. Arrivals, mostly single adult males, originate in China, Syria, Yemen, Iran, Iraq, Afghanistan, Lebanon, Egypt, Pakistan, Mauritania, Uzbekistan, Venezuela and Turkey.

Terrorists determined to perpetrate death and destruction on U.S. soil play the long game, undeterred when early efforts fail. After 9/11: On Nov. 5, 2009, the Fort Hood,

Texas, shooting: U.S. Army Major Nidal Malik Hasan, 39, who served as a psychiatrist at Fort Hood and was the son of Palestinian immigrants, opened fire on fellow service members, leaving 13 dead.

On April 15, 2013, the Boston Marathon bombing: Dzhokhar, 19, and Tamerlan, 26, Tsarnaev planted two bombs near the marathon’s finish line. The explosion killed three.

On Dec. 2, 2015, the San Bernardino Attack: Syed Rizwan Farook, 28, and his wife Tashfeen Malik, 29, shot off more than 100 rounds during a holiday event. The Islamic-inspired terrorists killed 14 and wounded 22.

On Oct. 31, 2017, the NYC truck attack: ISIS-inspired Sayfullo Saipov, 29, used a rented Home Depot pickup truck to drive down a bike path, which killed eight.

As of July, Homeland Threat Assessment alarmingly reported that immigration officials encountered what they described as a “growing number of individuals” who appear on the FBI’s terrorist watchlist and were detained while trying to enter via the U.S. southern border. Compared to fiscal year 2022 when CBP apprehended 100 individuals whose identities matched those on the Terrorist Screening Dataset, as of Sept.

30, the total had increased to 160.

Given the sovereignty-breaking reality about alien arrivals, their numerical totals, their countries of origin and the always-welcoming Biden administration, the odds are increasingly high that, as long as the border remains unguarded, terrorism attacks against U.S. citizens are a near-certainty.

Joe Guzzardi is an Institute for Sound Public Policy analyst who has written about immigration for more than 30 years.

B

y now you’ve read and heard and talked long about the situation in Israel. Because I write my column eight days ahead of publication, it is often the case that I’m late to the party. But, then again, being late to the conversation usually keeps me from making rash statements before some of the basic facts are in. It also, in this case, has allowed me to wipe the tears from my eyes so that I can see things a bit clearer.

As a pastor, one of the hardest questions I am asked is this one: “If God is so powerful, and if he is so good, then why does evil seem so prevalent in our world?”

Philosophers on both side of the theistic divide have struggled with this question. Some, like Richard Dawkins, the leading atheist of our day, actually believe there is no such thing as evil.

Why? Simply because if evil exists it means there is a standard by which to distinguish evil from good, and that standard must not only be pure good, but also immutably good. That is, it must be impervious to the effects of evil, and be eternally good. Dawkins’ problem is that this kind of standard seems quite a bit down the road toward an eternal, transcendent God, and since he rejects even the concept of God, he must avow that there is no good, no evil, only “pitiless indifference.”

The trouble is that we naturally know that evil exists. We’ve seen its face in the myriad senseless acts of man’s inhumanity to man down through the ages.

And so, I would say to Dr. Dawkins, “Maybe the presence of evil argues for the presence of a God standard.”

Another suggested answer is that “everything has a purpose,” which basically says “the end justifies the means.” And while we can hide behind this as a maxim, it really doesn’t answer the questions we are continually asking. Sure, we may find the “purpose” for some evil event down the line, but the fact is,

it was still evil and painful and horribly wrong.

For me, the best answer may not be the most personally satisfying in the moment, but it does promise a long-term comfort in a world where evil not only exists but also plays a very prominent role. Evil exists because sin exists, and sin has invaded everyone born in the line of Adam. We all sin, but the greatest evil is found when sinful desires are encouraged, fed, rationalized and released rather than beaten down, starved, repented of and restrained. Why is there evil? Because you and I and billions of others are in this world.

At this point, no one can predict what will happen in this latest round of brutal evil between competing ideologies in the Middle East. Was the surprise attack on Israel evil? Must Israel show ethical restraint in response? Must transgression of the protocols of Just War Theory be recognized and punished? Is every instance of a human dying, especially at the hands of a fellow human, horrible, painful and deeply sad? Yes to all, absolutely, and resoundingly, yes.

Prayers for peace are surely needed.

Political and military restraints and agreements and treaties and promises will surely be suggested, even enacted.

But, given that past performance is the best predictor of future success, no one should get their hopes up. Where evil is sung and preached as good, and violence is seen as the pathway to paradise, peace offers much less reward.

So, will the politicians, philosophers, military and societal leaders find a solution to this ages-old ideological conflict? No, sadly, no. And, in some ways, that is the greater face of evil.

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

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