Sunday Signal 111923

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NOVEMBER 19, 2023

For The Table Page 7

Your News, Entertainment & Lifestyle Source

7

DON’T FOUL UP YOUR THANKSGIVING TURKEY

8

DON’T STRESS WHEN THE WHOLE FAMILY COMES TO TOWN

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HOLIDAY MOVIES ROEPER CAN’T WAIT TO SEE

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

N O V E M B E R 19, 2023

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 3

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4 · S U N D AYS I G N A L

N O V E M B E R 19, 2023

TABLE OF CONTENTS NEWS FEATURES

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5 Simplify Holiday Hosting 6 Thanksgiving Flair for the Table 7 Don’t ‘Foul’ Up Your Turkey 8 Handling Holiday Stress CITY MANAGER 9 9 Launch into a Galactic World at the Family Literacy Fest FOOD 10 Mini Desserts That Can Delight Guests Pumpkin Truffles • Turkey Cupcakes • Apple Pie Bars

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ENTERTAINMENT

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11 Holiday Movies GARDENING 12 Evergreens in Santa Clarita

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HOME 14 Furnish Your Home for Comfort

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SENIOR LIVING 15 A Second Wind

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HEALTH 16 Staying Healthy This Holiday Season

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PUZZLES

17

OPINION

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The entire content of the Sunday Signal is copyrighted 2023 by Paladin Multi-Media Group, Inc. All submitted letters and columns are strictly the opinions of the authors and not necessarily those of the publisher. All rights are reserved and no part of this publication may be reproduced without written permission of the publisher. If you would not like this delivered to your home, please call (661) 259-1000.

N O V E M B E R 19, 2023

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 5

N E W S F E AT U R E

H

osting a major holiday event is no small effort. It requires close attention to detail from planning, cooking and cleaning to entertaining guests on the big day. Fortunately, just like any good recipe, approaching your hosting duties one step at a time can allow you to create a magnificent final product.

This Thanksgiving, the experts at Finish are helping hosts everywhere get organized, from the initial planning all the way through clean up, with the Ultimate Thanksgiving Timer. Created in partnership with Gaby Dalkin of “What’s Gaby Cooking,” it’s a personalized hosting timeline designed to help hosts stay on track up to and throughout the big day.

“I’ve been hosting holiday gatherings for years and know from firsthand experience that even capable hosts struggle to time everything just right,” Dalkin said. “From planning your menu and designing your tablescape to accommodating dietary restrictions and even serving dessert, the Ultimate Thanksgiving Timer will support hosts every step of the way this year.”

Plan Your Guest List, Menu

Deciding how many guests you’ll be serving and what you plan to serve are two essential details that will guide the rest of your planning. When creating your guest list, be realistic about how many are likely to attend and plan your menu for a few extra people so you don’t run out of food. Your menu may also be influenced by how many guests you plan to host; a whole turkey is practical for a large group, but a turkey breast may be adequate for a more intimate gathering. Remember to send your invites at least three weeks ahead of the event so guests have plenty of time to respond and you can

prepare your menu.

Start Food Shopping Early

The rush at the grocery store can be one of the most stressful parts of getting ready to host. Give yourself enough lead time by picking up pantry staples and beverages 1-2 weeks out so your kitchen is stocked for the big day. For perishables, get to the grocery store early in the day 1-2 days before hosting to beat the rush and avoid any last-minute grocery runs the morning of your gathering.

Maximize Prep Time

While it’s likely the majority of your work will come on the big day, you can work ahead to reduce some of the load. For example, you can wash and chop vegetables for stuffing and other side dishes and store them overnight to minimize prep time in the morning. You can also use the quiet of the night before to tackle tasks like setting the table and organizing your seating chart, restocking towels and replenishing other essentials in the guest bathroom.

Enlist Help with Cooking

The day of your event is the perfect time to pull extra hands into the kitchen. A simple but tasty recipe like this Ultimate Cheesy Herb Sourdough Stuffing from Dalkin is a sure crowd-pleaser to add to your table this year. Once you establish your cooking space and find your rhythm, you may even find sharing the preparations with a loved one is a great way to bond and create special memories.

Make Cleanup a Cinch

A few simple tricks can help you maintain a relatively clean workspace and keep up with all the dishes you need to prepare a lavish meal. First, be sure to clean up as you go. It may be tempting to throw all of your dirty utensils and empty mixing bowls in a pile in the sink to deal with later, but taking a few minutes to scrape dishes and load the dishwasher as you go can help prevent a messy mountain from forming. That also means you’ll be more likely to find a clean measuring cup or spoon when you move on to prepare the next dish.

Hosts have enough to worry about, so let your dishwasher do the hard work and pull in reinforcements to help clean up while you relax after a long day. Use a detergent that works in the toughest conditions, from burnt-on stains to old dishwashers and hard water, like Finish Ultimate. It’s the only dish detergent tab with CycleSync technology that releases the right ingredient at the right time to work with your dishwasher.

You can skip the rinse, even on tough stains like cranberry sauce and gravy, and save up to 20 gallons of water. Hosts are invited to put Finish Ultimate to the test and take the Ultimate Thanksgiving Challenge; if it can’t tackle your burnt-on stains, the meal is on Finish via a rebate of up to $30.

For more hosting tips and tricks, visit Ultimate ThanksgivingExperience.com. (Family Features) 

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N O V E M B E R 19, 2023

N E W S F E AT U R E

Thanksgiving flair for the table … fun for the family

By Michele E. Buttelman Signal Staff Writer

W

hen I was a child, Thanksgiving was a huge production. It was always held at my grandparents’ home and included a vast array of extended family, including second and third cousins.

Beyond the traditional Thanksgiving dinner, there was the atmosphere and family fun.

Thanksgiving décor

The colors of fall are the perfect palette for Thanksgiving décor. Use tons of soft orange, warm yellow, cranberry red and earthy brown to decorate your home.

I usually craft my own centerpiece to grace my Thanksgiving table. Because this display is made mostly from fresh food, you will need to put it together as close to dinnertime as possible.

Almost instant centerpiece

First, I take a 9-inch oval glass dish (you can choose any kind of clear container) and lay down a bed of crispy kale leaves. I like to use kale because the leaves have such “character.” Next, I nestle small orange and white pumpkins randomly throughout the display. Then, I add seasonal vegetables, such as apples, radishes and eggplants.

I like to include interesting looking items like whole, unshelled walnuts and Brazil nuts, as well as fresh cranberries.

Sometimes I will use little “mounds” of rolledup paper towels under the bed of kale to create “levels” and more visual interest in my display.

Use bundles of fresh herbs, such as rosemary

Nana

and sage, to fill in any gaps. Surround with more pumpkins and small yellow and orange votive candles. Voila! Instant centerpiece.

Other decorating ideas include the use of colorful and unique gourds in different size baskets and the use of candles in fall colors and scents — pumpkin spice, pumpkin pie and cranberry.

Items to handcraft your own wreaths, table runners, basket displays and other fall décor items can be found throughout the Santa Clarita Valley at various craft and fabric stores.

In addition, it is holiday boutique season.

Many of the holiday boutiques in the Santa Clarita area offer handcrafted items for your seasonal decorating needs.

Thanksgiving fun

Thanksgiving is family fun time. Instead of let-

ting the kids sit around and stare at a screen, why not suggest a few of these family fun activities.

Take a hike at Vasquez Rocks. The autumn lighting is beautiful on the rocks this time of year.

Take some time between Thanksgiving preparations or Black Friday madness and enjoy some time with nature. Vasquez Rocks is located at 10700 Escondido Canyon Road, Agua Dulce, 91350.

While you slave away preparing your annual Thanksgiving meal, why not get the kids together and have them each pick out 10 items from your pantry or the store to donate to the Santa Clarita Valley Food Pantry. This all reinforces the “reason for the season” and reminds everyone of the abundance we all have.

Food donations can be dropped off Monday through Thursday from 9 a.m. to noon. There also is a drop box located at the rear of the pantry in the alley between 4th and 5th streets. The pantry is located at 24133 Railroad Ave., Newhall, (661) 255-5001.

Go to your nearest park and play touch football, soccer, tag, hide-and-seek or Frisbee catch.

Just get outside with the kids and do something that involves running around and taking in some fresh air.

Create a family Thanksgiving journal. Buy a sturdy, thick notebook and have everyone write down what they are thankful for this year. Keep the notebook where you can find it and do the same thing next year, and the year after. It creates a book of thanks that will become a family heirloom.

Have the kids interview their grandparents and extended family members to learn more about theirs — and yours — family history. Find out how your grandparents celebrated Thanksgiving, and what they did for fun before all the mobile electronics we have. Learn more about the family tree.

Have the kids help decorate the Thanksgiving table. They can make names cards and colorful placemats.

Whatever you chose to do, do it as a family and make some memories for next year. 

N O V E M B E R 19, 2023

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 7

N E W S F E AT U R E

Don’t ‘Fowl’ Up Your Thanksgiving Turkey!

By Beau Harper Signal Staff Writer

W

hether purchasing a fresh or frozen turkey, consumers can be confident they are buying a quali­ty product. The decision of which to purchase is based on personal preference in price and conve­nience.

Oven-ready fresh and frozen birds are tucked into snug, air and water resistant plastic wraps immediately following pro­cessing. Air is removed as bags are sealed and shrunk so they fit the turkey almost as tightly as its own skin.

Frozen turkeys are flash-frozen immediately after processing to 0 degrees F or below and held at that temperature until packaged. The meat, once defrosted, is virtually at the same freshness as the day it was processed.

Fresh turkeys are deep chilled after packaging.

They have a shorter shelf life and are, there­fore, usually more expensive.

Whether you buy a fresh or frozen turkey, proper cooking and handling of the bird will ensure a delicious holiday meal.

Frozen Turkey • Stored at O degrees F or below.

• Purchase during special value sales and store the bird in the freezer until the thawing time begins.

• Thaw under refrigeration, in cold water or the microwave.

Refrigeration: Allow approxi­mately 24 hours per

five pounds to thaw in the refrigerator.

Cold Water Allow approximate­ly 30 minutes per pound to thaw in cold water , which is changed every 30 minutes. Do not use warm or hot water and be sure to change the water every 30 minutes.

Microwave Follow the microwave manufacturer’s direc­tions and begin to roast the turkey immediately following the microwave process.

Fresh Turkey • Stored at 26 degrees F and above.

• Purchase for convenience because thawing is not required. Cost may be slightly more due to special handling required by the store.

• Order in advance to be assured of availability.

• Place fresh, raw poultry in a refrigerator that maintains 40 degrees F and use it within the time frame on the package label, or freeze the poultry at O degrees F.

Hard Chilled/Previously Hard-Chilled Turkey • Stored at temperatures between O and 26 degrees F. In late 1997, new regulations created a separate category for turkeys in this temperature range, which had previously been labeled fresh. Cooks should treat this bird with the same care as a fresh bird and recognize this product has a short­ er shelf life than a frozen product.

Other Tips • Processors may add conve­nience or value-added features to whole turkeys, including pop-up tim-

ers, net bags for easy carrying and self-basting solutions injected into the bird for added flavor.

Consumers can choose which of these options best suit their needs.

• Purchase one pound of turkey per person to be served. This for­mula allows for the holiday meal plus a little left over for the prized turkey sandwich.

• Ensure that the packaging is intact and avoid purchasing a bird with packaging that has rips or tears.

• Save on supermarket specials by purchasing more than one turkey. A whole frozen turkey may be stored in your freezer for up to 12 months.

• Select the size of turkey based on number of servings needed.

There is no appreciable difference between female (hen) and male (tom) turkeys in tenderness, white/dark meat ratio or other eat­ing qualities.

Hens typically weigh between 14 to 16 pounds and toms 15 pounds on up, so choose the size which best fits the num­ber of dinner guests you expect.

Select alternative turkey cuts if you are having a small gathering for the holiday. Other turkey products that are readily available include a turkey breast, tender­loins, cutlets, drumsticks or thighs.

Or, ask your butcher to cut a whole fresh bird in two halves, roast one half and freeze the other half for a later occasion. 

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N O V E M B E R 19, 2023

N E W S F E AT U R E S

When Your Whole Family Comes to Town

By Vivianna Shields Signal Staff Writer

T

he holiday that welcomes gratitude, great food and family bonding, with a side of unwarranted stress, is

back.

Though Thanksgiving is meant to be the time to reconnect with family, there are many factors that lead individuals into feeling overwhelmed.

Whether it be perfecting a recipe, hosting dinner or maneuvering conversations to avoid conflicts, the overall experience can become very stressful.

Seasonal stress is legitimate and is a phenomenon that many people believe is just part of the process; however, being stressed during the holidays does not have to be a statement of every holiday. There are viable ways to cope and eliminate the stress felt during this period.

We talked to a marriage and family therapist, received testimonies from the community and heard from manners and etiquette coach in order to seek out keys to navigating and understanding the stress felt during the Thanksgiving season.

“There is a reason for everyone to be stressed during the holiday,” said Julia Young, licensed marriage and family therapist, and CEO of Caring Connected, a counseling service that specializes in seasonal anxiety, among other areas of mental health. “We aren’t taught how to deal with dysfunctional families, financial troubles and mental health at school.”

To combat this cycle of stress, Young has created a three-category model called the three B’s: balance, boundaries and breaking traditions.

First, balance is knowing that Thanksgiving does not need to be an all-or-nothing event. “It does not have to be perfect, so being realistic about balancing goals is crucial,” said Young.

Second, setting boundaries to establish distance from certain family members or conversation, can be beneficial for someone’s health, Young says. Sometimes these steps are necessary for keeping someone’s mental health in check during the holidays.

Lastly, the sense of obligation that

Thanksgiving does not need to be a stressful holiday. With a changed mindset, Thanksgiving can be a holiday that truly celebrates family and togetherness.

comes with following tradition is stressful within itself, according to Young. Young argues that patterns stress people out nowadays. Dismantling the patterns individuals get stuck in can elicit a feeling of control which eliminates stress.

However, for others this sense of tradition is comforting because Thanksgiving then becomes a “copy and paste” holiday, according to Erika Kauzlarich-Bird, who’s hosted at least a half-dozen of Thanksgiving dinners.

Kauzlarich-Bird credits her mom with compiling the ultimate Thanksgiving guide, including a timeline for the whole event, which features recipes, shopping lists, decorating tips and an hour-by-hour timeline for cooking.

Her mother’s love for cooking and order manifested from her love for the family. She showed her love through food and wanted the food to be hot on the table, according to Kauzlarich-Bird. Planning ahead can help many avoid last-minute shopping trips and a delayed dinner. It is important to remember that Thanksgiving dinner is not an everyday meal.

“Thanksgiving dinner is not like any other standard meal,” said Kauzlarich-Bird. “Not everyone knows how to cook a turkey, so there is a learning curve.”

When it comes to preparing for Thanksgiving, Katie Barnes, who’s also hosted her share of Thanksgiving dinners, says having the right mindset is the key to hosting a successful meal.

“Expect for delays in dinner, having to do your own dishes, keeping certain people separate and, always remind yourself to be grateful that you have a crazy family to spend Thanksgiving with,” Barnes said.

Barnes suggests giving yourself enough time for error. Don’t “overplan” the menu, because that could result in a full oven, and always accept help when offered to avoid feeling overwhelmed.

Facilitating a successful Thanksgiving is more than just planning and cooking. For many, socializing with family members creates tension at the dinner table. Whether it be generated from politics, religion or other controversial topics, these conversations

can lead to conflict which is uncomfortable for more than the parties involved.

“If you fought with your uncle last Thanksgiving, make it a point to talk to him about more neutral topics, so you can enjoy each other’s presence without cutting each other out,” said Young.

Louise Elerding, a manners and etiquette coach, offers a refreshing case for manners at the dinner table during the holidays.

Thanksgiving does not need to be a stressful holiday. With a changed mindset, preparation before the event and mindfulness of others, Thanksgiving is capable of remaining a holiday true to its message: celebrating family and togetherness.

Overall, Elerding believes conversation is important at the dinner table, and it’s better to have it rather than not having any at all.

“You can answer someone in a way to resolve the conflict or to fuel the conflict,” said Elerding. “If we all wanted to resolve the conflict, we would have a great environment.” 

N O V E M B E R 19, 2023

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 9

FROM THE CITY MANAGER

Launch Into a Galactic World at the Family Literacy Festival

By Ken Striplin Santa Clarita City Manager

“The more that you read, the more you will know” — Dr. Seuss

A

re you looking for a day full of out-ofthis-world engaging activities, with a big dose of intergalactic information? Look no further than the 16th annual Family Literacy Festival. This year’s festival promises to be an extraordinary event, and I invite each and every one of you to join us at the Old Town Newhall Library Branch on Saturday, December 2, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. The theme for this year’s festival is “Take Me to Your Reader,” a galactical call to action. It encourages all members of our community to make their way to the Library for a day filled with alien-inspired activities. This festival will be a hub of creativity, offering crafts, live music, captivating storytimes and even a touch of magic.

Prepare to be delighted by over 15 local vendors who will be lining the parking lot, offering fun giveaways, books and special prizes for those who visit multiple booths at the festival. You can even capture the magic of the day at our galactical photo booths. The lineup includes a magician, a musical performance featuring African and Latin American music and science presenters to ignite your

curiosity. We will have a NASA Solar System Ambassador and engaging storytime sessions with the City Council.

For the young ones in our community, beloved characters like Pete the Cat, the Very Hungry Caterpillar, Piggy and Elephant will be making appearances, spreading joy and laughter. There will be an abundance of crafting opportunities, including spaceship making, planet night light crafting, sculptable aliens, stained glass art, glow-in-the-dark planet bracelets, elemental jars, alien headbands and a moon rock toss game.

One of the standout features of this year’s festival is the Library’s Wonder Wheels attraction. It offers a unique opportunity for attendees to step into the cab of a fire engine, explore the interior of a CHP cruiser and even get a firsthand look at what a Burrtec trash truck is like. It’s an experience that will surely leave lasting memories.

There is no better way to get your kids excited about reading and learning, than at the Santa Clarita Public Library’s 16th annual Family Literacy Festival. We look forward to seeing you there! For additional details, please visit Santa ClaritaLibrary.com or call (661) 2590750.

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

FRONTIER TOYOTA WISHES YOU A HEARTFELT

AND THANKS YOU FOR YOUR CONTINUED SUPPORT!

— The Frontier Family 661-255-7575 WWW.FRONTIERTOYOTA.COM 23621 CREEKSIDE RD., VALENCIA, CA 91355

1 0 · S U N D AYS I G N A L

N O V E M B E R 19, 2023

FOOD

Mini-Desserts That Can Delight Guests of All Ages

P

ie is a must, but just like wedding cake, it doesn’t have to be the only dessert on the table. Pack as many treats as possible into your Thanksgiving spread with these recipes for mini Thanksgiving treats. This way everyone gets a little taste of everything. Or, if you go overboard on the savory stuff, you can still have dessert without feeling too full!

Turkey Cupcakes

By Kat Boytsova

Yields 2 Dozen

Ingredients

1 box chocolate cake mix, plus ingredients called for on box 1 1/3 c. (2 sticks and 5 1/3 tbsp.) butter, softened 5 1/3 c. powdered sugar 2/3 c. unsweetened cocoa powder 1 tsp. pure vanilla extract 4 tbsp. heavy cream

Pinch kosher salt

Pretzels, for decorating

Candy corn, for decorating

M&Ms, for decorating

Candy eyes, for decorating

Directions Preheat oven to 350º and line two 12-cup muffin tins with black cupcake liners. Prepare cupcake batter according to package directions.

Scoop cupcake batter into liners and bake until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, about 22 minutes. Let cool completely.

In a large bowl using a hand mixer (or the bowl of a stand mixer using the paddle attachment), beat butter until fluffy. Add powdered sugar and cocoa powder and beat until combined, then add vanilla, heavy cream, and salt and beat until combined. (If you desire a thinner consistency, add 1 more tablespoon cream.)

Fill a pastry bag fitted with a ½” round tip with frosting. Frost cupcakes, making 1 larger frosting dollop for the body and 1 smaller one on top for the face.

Place 2 pretzels on the backside of the cupcake for the tail then arrange 4 candy corn pieces in front of them to finish the tail. Place another candy corn on the smaller dollop for the beak and 3 brown M&Ms on each side for the wings.

Finish the turkey cupcake by placing 2 candy eyes above the beak.

Pumpkin Truffles

By Sally Quinn

Yields 35

Ingredients For Center

2 oz. full-fat cream cheese, softened to room temperature

Pumpkin Truffles

Turkey Cupcakes

2 tbsp. powdered sugar 1/3 c. pumpkin puree 1-3/4 c. graham cracker crumbs 1/2 tsp. pumpkin pie spice 1/2 tsp. ground cinnamon 4 oz. white chocolate, coarsely chopped For Topping 10 oz. semi-sweet or white chocolate, coarsely chopped

Extra graham cracker crumbs (optional)

cinnamon (optional)

sugar (optional)

Directions In a large bowl using a hand mixer or in the bowl of a stand mixer using the whisk attachment, beat cream cheese and sugar together until creamy, about 2 minutes. Add pumpkin and beat on high until combined. Add graham cracker crumbs, pumpkin pie spice, cinnamon, and melted chocolate, and beat on medium speed until everything is combined, about 2 minutes. Cover tightly and refrigerate for 1 hour or up to 24 hours. Chilling is mandatory.

Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats and set aside.

Begin rolling chilled mixture into balls (about 1 teaspoon per ball) and place balls on baking sheets.

Chill in refrigerator for 30 minutes or up to 24 hours.

Begin melting chocolate when balls are just about finished chilling, using a double boiler or the microwave. If using the microwave: place chocolate in a medium heat-proof bowl and melt in 30-second increments, stirring after each increment until completely melted and smooth. Let warm chocolate sit for 5 minutes to slightly cool before dipping.

Remove balls from refrigerator and dip them in chocolate. Place balls back onto baking sheet after you dip each one, then top dipped truffles with a sprinkle of graham cracker crumbs, cinnamon, or sugar (if desired). Allow chocolate to completely set in refrigerator.

Apple Pie Bars

Apple Pie Bars

By Makinze Gore

Ingredients For the Crust

Cooking spray 1 c. (2 sticks) butter, softened 1/2 c. granulated sugar 1/4 c. packed brown sugar 2-1/2 c. all-purpose flour 1/2 tsp. kosher salt For the Filling 6 apples, peeled, cored, and sliced

Juice of 1/2 lemon 1/2 c. packed brown sugar 1 tsp. ground cinnamon 1 tsp. pure vanilla extract 1/2 tsp. kosher salt For the Topping 1-1/2 c. all-purpose flour 1 c. chopped pecans 1 c. packed brown sugar 1/2 tsp. kosher salt 3/4 c. (1 1/2 sticks) butter, melted

Caramel, for serving

Directions

Preheat oven to 350° and line a 9”-x-13” pan with parchment then grease with cooking spray. In a large bowl using a hand mixer, beat butter and sugars together until light and fluffy. Add flour and salt and mix until just combined.

Press into prepared pan about 1/2” up sides. Bake until lightly golden, 20 minutes.

In a large bowl, toss apples, lemon juice, brown sugar, cinnamon, vanilla, and salt together. Spread apples over crust.

In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, pecans, brown sugar, and salt. Stir in melted butter until coarse clumps form.

Sprinkle crumb topping over apples and bake until top is golden and apples are soft, about 1 hour.

Let cool at least 15 minutes then slice into squares and drizzle with caramel before serving.

For more recipes like these, visit Delish.com. 

N O V E M B E R 19, 2023

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 1 1

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

Several Holiday Movies Roeper Says He Can’t Wait to See

By Richard Roeper Signal Contributing Writer

T

he late and legendary screenwriter William Goldman delivered the scripts for “Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid,” “Marathon Man,” “All the President’s Men,” “The Princess Bride” and “Misery,” yet one could argue Goldman’s most quoted line through the decades is from his book, “Adventures in the Screen Trade,” in which he wrote: “Nobody knows anything … not one person in the entire motion picture field knows for a certainty what’s going to work. Every time out it’s a guess and, if you’re lucky, an educated one.”

That has never been truer than in recent years. Hollywood was virtually shut down during the pandemic.

At times it seemed as if the gigantic streaming services were going to swallow theatrical releases whole.

Strikes by the WGA and SAG-AFTRA have highlighted the increasing and very valid concerns about the use of AI. Over the last decade-plus, some of the best directors and most decorated actors of our time have turned to prestige limited series, with superhero movies and action franchises dominating the theatrical scene.

And then along come “Barbie” and “Oppenheimer,” two GIGANTIC global hits, and the movies are back in a big way.

Nobody knows anything — but one of the few constants year after year is we can count on the holiday movie season for a bounty of awardsbait movies that on paper (or on your computer screen) look to be great, or near-great, or at least damn interesting failures. That’s the case once again in 2023, and with that, here are my 10 most anticipated late-year releases.

‘Renaissance: A Film by Beyonce’ (Nov. 30)

It’s “Renaissance,” and it’s a film

by Beyonce. If it’s anywhere near as glorious and exhilarating as “Homecoming: A Film By Beyonce” (2019), it will be one of the best concert films of this century.

‘Poor Things’ (Dec. 8)

Yorgos Lanthimos (“The Favourite”) directs an all-star cast including Emma Stone, Mark Ruffalo, Willem Dafoe, Ramy Youssef and Margaret Qualley in a dark comedy/fantasy based on the novel by Alasdair Gray.

Expect bawdiness. And ribaldry.

Maybe even some farcical romping.

ing our way this December; in this case, it’s the 2001 work “Erasure” by Percival Everett. The always-reliable Jeffrey Wright is getting major buzz for his performance as an English professor and writer in this social/ literary satire from writer-director Cord Jefferson.

‘The Color Purple’ (Dec. 25)

ri, the founder of ... well, Ferrari. As you’d expect, an A-list cast is along for the ride, with Adam Driver as Ferrari and a supporting team that includes Penelope Cruz, Shailene Woodley, Jack O’Connell and Patrick Dempsey.

‘Boys in the Boat’ (Dec. 25)

Another biographical sports drama, and what great source materiNearly 40 years after Steven Spiel‘The Boy and the Heron’ (Dec. al in the story of the University of berg’s acclaimed adaptation of the 8) Washington rowing crew that reprePulitzer Prize-winning Alice Walker The legendary animation innosented the United States at the 1936 novel, the musical version comes to vator Hayao Miyazaki adapts the the big screen, with Fantasia Barrino Summer Olympic games in Berlin.

1937 novel about a young boy who Actor/filmmaker/tequila guy George and Danielle Brooks reprising their is grieving the death of his mother Laemmle Theatres Clarita adsource@exhibitorads.com Clooney directs, with Callum TurnBroadway roles andSignal powerful talents and enters a fantasy world shared by • Santa er and Joel Edgerton starring. f.

Unsuch as Halle Bailey, Taraji P. Henthe living3col and the(4.75”) deceased.x Miyazap. 888.737.2812 203.438.1206 5.9” til the publication of Daniel James ki, 82, has retired from filmmaking son, Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor, Corey November 19-23, 2023 Adthan insertion date: Brown’s book of the same name in more often Sinatra retired from Sunday-Thursday, Hawkins, Colman Domingo, David 2013, which became a surprise bestsinging. IfAd thiscreation/delivery is indeed his last film, Alan Grier and Louis Gossett Jr. front date: Tuesday, November 14, 2023 at 10:27:09 AM CASCS_LEM1119seller, this was one of the lesser-rethe clips and trailer promise yet anand center. membered stories from those 1936 other beautifully drawn, haunting ‘Ferrari’ (Dec. 25) and memorable masterpiece.

Games. It’s an incredible and inspiThe one and only Michael Mann rational tale that deserves the big‘Rebel Moon — Part One: A (“Thief,” “Heat,” “Collateral”) has Child of Fire’ (Dec. 22) spent years developing this biograph- screen treatment.  Zach Snyder (“300,” “Batman v.

Superman: Dawn of Justice,” “Army of the Dead”) knows how to put on one hell of an action show, and this particular sci-fi epic about the obligatory mysterious stranger helping the obligatory peaceful villagers defend themselves against the obligatory tyrannical forces is so big it’s getting the two-part treatment, as I cleverly deduced from the “Part One” in the title. Featuring a fantastically interesting cast that includes Sofia Boutella, Djimon Hounsou, Charlie Hunnam, Anthony Hopkins and Ed Skrein.

‘The Iron Claw’ (Dec. 22)

Part of me was hoping “The Iron Claw” would be the story of a bunch of animated toys in an arcade game that come to life when the coin-operated iron claw tries to snatch one from the pile, but that’s a movie for another day. This is the fictionalized story of the real-life Von Erich family, a clan of wrestlers in the 1960s who popularized the legendary iron claw hold. Zac Efron, Jeremy Allen White, Harris Dickinson and Lily James star.

‘American Fiction’ (Dec. 22)

The People’s Choice Award winner at the Toronto Film Festival is yet another adaptation of a novel com-

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N O V E M B E R 19, 2023

GARDENING

Evergreen Trees That Will Grow Well in the SCV

By Jane Gates Signal Staff Writer

A

utumn is not only a good time to plant California natives and many drought-tolerant flowers, but it is the best time to plant and do major pruning on trees and woody shrubs. Sap (tree blood) slows as plants go into winter dormancy or semi-dormancy. This means there will be less bleeding at this time of year, and the tree will go through less shock when roots are moved around or limbs are cut.

Why plant trees?

Trees are important investments in the landscape. Shading your home in the summer can save you 10% or more on cooling costs.

With the increasing heat of our lengthening inland chaparral summers, we can use all the help we can get. On cooler days of the year, a shady canopy invites you outdoors to enjoy good weather, play with the kids or pets, or lounge in a comfy chair. The sound of rustling leaves in the breeze offers a calming psychological effect, a welcome gift to our all-too-stressed-out days. Leaves clean our air, attract birds and butterflies and increase the value of our property.

Trees can define your landscape.

Because they make a bold statement in the overall design and many can live for a century or more, you need to choose the right one(s). But which trees are best for your garden?

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Whatever tree you choose, remember this: Plant a tree — no matter how cute and small it may be when young as if it’s full grown. The most common mistake people make is to choose a tree according to how it looks when purchased. But all trees grow large, need head room and root space, and will look different in five years and very different in eight to 10.

Here is a good, partial selection of evergreen trees that tend to grow well in our area. I’ve noted some trees that are a bit frost shy since cold would have made them risky a half dozen years ago. But with the radical increase in nighttime winter temperatures they are probably safe now. The warmer areas of Newhall, Saugus and Valencia should carry little risk.

Higher elevations and further east in Canyon Country, some spots can still be exposed to more frosty nights.

Small/Medium (under 35’)

Acacia baileyana (Baily’s Acacia) dependable in our area Acacia cultriformis (Knife Acacia) dependable Acacia longifolia (Sydney Golden Wattle) frost shy Acacia pendula (Weeping Acacia) frost shy Agonis flexuosa (Peppermint tree) frost shy Arbutus unedo (Strawberry tree) another dependable choice Callistemon citrinus (Lemon Bottlebrush) dependable Ceratonia siliqua (Carob tree) frost shy Citrus (Lemon, kumquat, tangerine, orange, lime, grapefruit and more) listed in order of cold tolerance Eriobotrya japonica (Loquat) dependable Feijoa sellowiana (Pineapple Guava) dependable (Strawberry Guava is frost shy) Geijera parviflora (Australian Willow) dependable Hakea suaveolens (Sweet Hakea) dependable but hard to find Heteromeles arbutifolia (Toyon) dependable native Melaleuca nesophila (Pink Melaleuca) can be a little frost shy

Melaleuca quinquinerva (Cajeput tree) can be a little frost shy Metrosideros excelsus (New Zealand Christmas tree) frost shy Myoporum laetum (Sandalwood) variable Rhus lancea (African Sumac) dependable Xylosma congestum (Shiny Xylosma) usually dependable

Medium-tall (under 55’)

Brachychiton populneus (Bottle tree) dependable Eucalyptus nicholii (Willow Leaved Peppermint) usually dependable Eucalyptus polyanthermos (Silver Dollar) variable Eucalyptus sideroxylon (Red Ironbark) height variable usually dependable Grevillea robusta (Silk Oak) dependable with light frost only Olea europaea (Olive tree) dependable Podocarpus gracilior (Fern or Weeping Podocarpus) can be a little frost shy Schinus molle (California Pepper) very dependable but on the forestry commission’s do-not-plant list Schinus terebinthifolius (Brazilian Pepper) very dependable but on the forestry commission’s do-not-plant list

Tall/Very Tall

Cinnamomum camphora (Camphor tree) dependable Eucalyptus citrodora (Lemon Gum) dependable Quercus agrifolia (Coast Live Oak) dependable but slow-growing Quercus ilex (Holly Oak) dependable but slow-growing Tristiania conferta (Brisbane Box) frost shy Ulmus parvifolia (Chinese Elm) dependable but very root invasive You may notice I have not included pine trees or palms in the list even though they are evergreens. Both these tree types have so many varieties that they would require separate articles. Many fir trees, including pines have very flammable sap so I don’t recommend planting them any-

where near structures in our wildfire prone environment.

There are plenty more trees to choose from if you are interested in deciduous trees (trees that shed their leaves for the winter). These include fruit trees, many decorative trees like Crape Myrtle and some of our most colorful bloomers like the Jacaranda.

Research which trees will look good and do well in your garden now and in future years. Plant the right tree in the right place and you will love it forever. The wrong tree can crack cement walkways and house foundations, litter your yard, and make you spend thousands of dollars to remove it. Do your homework: You won’t regret it! 

When You’re Ready to Plant • Ideally, buy your tree at least a week before planting it.

• Have your hole dug at least twice the width of the pot and the same depth so the roots can sit on firm soil.

• Set the potted tree in the hole to adapt to its new home.

• Water it well so the water drains through the pot and fills the hole beneath. This way, water can soak down deeply encouraging the roots to follow when planted. When you are ready to plant, stake the young tree if in a wind exposed location (which is almost everywhere in Santa Clarita!).

• Never plant your tree deeper than the soil level it had when potted.

• Dig a moat/trough around the tree starting at least 6-12 inches from the stem/trunk, and 3-6 inches deep where water can collect and drain slowly into the soil.

• Keep your tree well-watered with a bubbler system or another deep-watering form of irrigation.

• Remove support stakes within 1-3 (maximum) years.

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1 4 · S U N D AYS I G N A L

N O V E M B E R 19, 2023

HOME

Furnish Your Home for Comfort

T

he pandemic changed much about the way people live, including a propensity for spending more time at home. In 2020, people spent far less waking time, roughly an hour and a half less on average, with people outside of their own households.

Though restrictions that limited social interactions have long since been lifted, spending at home has remained popular. More than two-thirds of Americans are spending more time at home, according to the American Time Use Survey from the U.S. Department of Labor. Inflation and the looming threat of a possible recession are undoubtedly keeping more people at home. With all that extra time on their hands, respondents have been poring their energy into fixing up their homes. Lawns, kitchens and living rooms are popular spaces to renovate.

As people continue to fix up their homes, they may be interested in ways to make them more comfortable. Certain furnishings can ensure living spaces are comfortable places to pass the time.

Ensure an abundance of light. One stark overhead light will not create a cozy environment. Introduce groupings of illumination where you hope residents and guests will congregate to engage

in conversation. Utilize different lighting sources, such as task lighting, table and floor lamps, recessed or ambient lighting, and even candles.

Warm temperature light bulbs will add to that comfortable feeling.

Coordinate designs for each season. Crisp cotton and breezy linens are great for the warm weather, but when the colder temperatures arrive, it’s time to swap for flannel or jersey. Folded quilts or throws on the sofa also can be handy for chilly evenings.

Make subtle changes to the home as the temperature changes to epitomize comfort in your spaces.

Splurge on your sofa and bed. Much time will be spent lounging on the couch or sleeping in your bed. It’s worthwhile to invest in pieces that are durable and, above all else, comfortable. While these items may be more expensive up front, the comfort they provide will be well worth it.

Soften harsh lines. Tricks like incorporating round area rugs or using oval or round pillows can break up the straight line of rooms and even modern furniture pieces. Opt for soft and inviting textiles as well. Textural elements, such as woven decor baskets, also can soften harsh lines.

Introduce organic elements. Home entertaining

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expert Julie Blanner says plants, flowers, fruits, and vegetables bring life to a space. Choose easy care plants if you do not have a green thumb, or swap out freshly cut blooms in vases as pops of color and fresh elements are needed.

Utilize warm paint colors. Cool-toned paints can make a space seem colder and more utilitarian or clinical. When looking at swatches, select paints that have warm undertones. Eggshell and satin sheens will be more inviting and evoke a cozy feel more effectively than flat or matte finishes.

These are just a few ways to build a cozy and comfortable home. Working within these parameters, homeowners can customize their interior spaces to maximize comfort. (MC) 

N O V E M B E R 19, 2023

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 1 5

A SECOND WIND

The Illusive Practice of Being Grateful lead to envy and resentment. Having expectations that we are entitled to gifts promotes an attitude of arros the gance. Those who expect privileges or Thanksfeel they are owed what they receive giving cannot recognize goodness in life as a holigift to be grateful for, not a right to be day approaches, claimed. we are encouraged Gratitude is born of humility, the to feel grateful for recognition that well-being in life is our blessings while reliant on interdependence and cosimultaneously being prodded with operation. Gratitude acknowledgurgent appeals to buy, buy, buy on es that our successes are built with Black Friday. Such irony. Be gratethe help of others. Giving thanks to ful for what you have, but buy more a higher power, friends, stuff so you can be hapfamily, or other sources py. of goodness such as naBeing grateful is not as Gratitude is born of ture inclines us to receive simple as it sounds. Psyhumility, the recogni- words of gratitude from chologists view gratitude tion that well-being others, thus revealing the as a complex, nuanced in life is reliant on interconnection of giving concept. It is not only a interdependence and and receiving. Gratitude feeling of appreciation cooperation.

Gratistrengthens relationships for an act of kindness but tude acknowledges and makes us mindful also a trait or disposition that our successes of our place in the world of a person. Some peoare built with the help and our connection to ple have more propenof others. others. sity to be grateful than Studies from neuroothers.

Although research on science have identified gratitude is relatively new, evidence brain regions that are likely involved suggests that gratitude has biologiin experiencing and expressing gratcal roots in our evolutionary history. itude, providing further evidence for Some scientists suggest that gratitude the idea that gratitude is an intrinsic may have evolved as a mechanism component of the human experience. to promote the behavior of helping Even when life is difficult, especially others, thereby turning strangers into when life is difficult, gratitude helps allies who could aid in survival. It us see the big picture and not be functions as “social glue” that bonds a overwhelmed by setbacks. community and fosters teamwork.

Third century Stoic philosophers Embracing gratitude has been argue that gratitude is not just a senproven to help us live happier, health- timent of appreciation but a way of ier, and more fulfilling lives. But delife. Practicing gratitude is virtue in spite the social and personal benefits action. Savoring simple pleasures and of practicing gratitude, factors can recognizing our interconnection with inhibit it. Habituation thwarts gratiothers are the first steps. But expresstude. The more routine and comfort- ing gratitude is the culmination. As able our environment, the more comwriter William Arthur Ward states, placent and less grateful we become.

“Feeling gratitude and not expressing If we live with fresh water all our it is like wrapping a present and not lives, it’s difficult to feel grateful for giving it.” each sip of water we take. Not taking Mary Sortino Petersen is a retired for granted the very things we need most to survive and thrive each day is COC English Instructor, 30-year SCV resident, and two-time breast cancer challenging.

Being too focused on what we lack, survivor. She welcomes your comments at asecondwind.signal@gmail. what others have, or what we feel com  we deserve can inhibit gratitude and

By Mary Sortino Petersen Signal Staff Writer

A

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1 6 · S U N D AYS I G N A L

N O V E M B E R 19, 2023

H E A LT H

Tips to Stay Healthy During the Holiday Season

T

he holiday season is a joyous time to reconnect with family and loved ones, but it also brings unique health and safety risks, according to doctors, who recommend a bit of extra vigilance to protect yourself and those close to you.

“During the hectic holiday season, it can be hard to carve out time to focus on your wellness. Awareness, along with the adoption of a few healthy habits, can help you and your family enjoy this special time of year in the best of health,” says American Medical Association (AMA) president, Jesse M. Ehrenfeld, M.D., M.P.H. For a healthy, happy season, follow these tips and recommendations from the AMA: 1. Vaccination is the best protection against a number of serious respiratory viruses circulating this fall and winter. To protect yourself and your family, get up to date on your vac-

cines, including the annual flu shot, as well as the updated COVID-19 vaccine for everyone 6 months and older. Vaccines are also available to protect older adults from severe RSV. New tools to protect infants during RSV season include maternal vaccination as well as the monoclonal antibody immunization.

If you have questions, speak with your physician and review trusted resources, including get vaccineanswers.org.

2. Watch what you eat this holiday season. Pay particular attention to labels and avoid processed foods as much as you can, especially those with added sodium and sugar. Drink water instead of sugar-sweetened

beverages, and eat nutritious, whole foods like fresh fruits and vegetables alongside richer holiday fare.

over the holiday season. If you’re traveling, don’t forget to pack your sneakers!

3. If you’re consuming alcohol, drink only in moderation. The U.S. Dietary Guidelines for Americans defines that as up to one drink per day for women and two drinks per day for men, and only by adults of legal drinking age.

5. Factors like holiday spending and navigating time with extended family can bring on extra seasonal stress. Invest in your mental health and manage stress by getting sufficient sleep, exercising and seeking help from a mental health professional when you need it.

4. Make time to exercise during this busy time of year. A good rule of thumb for adults is at least 150 minutes a week of moderate-intensity activity, or 75 minutes a week of vigorous-intensity activity. Brisk walks, or even a family trip to the gym, can provide easy and fun ways to get off the couch and elevate your heart rate

6. Make smart choices and plan ahead if you’re driving. In December 2021 alone, 1,013 Americans died in alcohol-impaired-driving crashes. Do not under any circumstances drive if you intend to drink. And if you are the designated driver, make a 100% commitment to sobriety.

7. Get your New Year’s resolutions started early. Speak with your doctor or health care professional about quitting tobacco and nicotine use, and declare your home and car smokefree to eliminate secondhand smoke exposure.

“Amid the holiday cheer, don’t neglect your health and safety. By eating well, exercising, and taking necessary steps to stop the spread of respiratory viruses, you can help protect yourself against common seasonal health risks,” say Dr. Ehrenfeld. (SPT) 

N O V E M B E R 19, 2023

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 1 7

PUZZLES CROSSWORD TIME

SOLUTIONS

1 8 · S U N D AY S I G N A L

Opinion

N O V E M B E R 19, 2023

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

READERLETTERS

Give it a Try I believe that some very simple practices would go a very long way at providing not only a better society for we adults, but also provide a teaching/learning experience for young people.

How about we concentrate on what we can agree on rather than continually obsessing on the issues where we disagree?

Case in point that I can speak to from personal experience: As anyone reading my submissions can see, I am a conservative on almost all issues — always have been and probably always will be. However, in my work on the Veterans Memorial Committee here in Santa Clarita I got to work with Assemblywoman Pilar Schiavo and her staff on last year’s Memorial Day event where we honored our local Purple Heart recipients. When Ms. Schiavo was elected I contacted her through email and told her that, while I did not vote for her, I was willing to give her a chance and asked to be placed on her mailing list. I have dealt a lot with her wonderful staff here in Santa Clarita on veterans issues (they call me “Grandpa-Rick” or “Pa-Pa”) and I can honestly say that unless all of us are incredible actors we have a mutual respect for each other even though we probably disagree on the majority of issues.

All of we veterans out here are very fortunate in having Rep. Mike Garcia and his wonderful staff fighting for veteran issues on the federal level, and Assemblywoman Schiavo and her equally wonderful staff fighting for us at the state level to address the issues important to us.

Bottom line here is that focusing on the areas where we agree and accepting and respecting each others’ views on those where we don’t is very rewarding for us all, and hopefully our younger people will see and learn from this to help make this a better world in the future.

Rick Barker Valencia

Led by the Mob Because groupthink is so strong, most Californians would rather pay $6 per gallon to pass by homeless people and over potholes than vote Republican. On every even year, they pass up yet another opportunity to return the state to its successful past. By voting for bigger government and one-party rule, most Californians are led by the mob into ever-worsening conditions.

Rob Kerchner Valencia Submit a Letter to the Editor

Include name, address & phone; Anonymous letters aren’t printed; email: letters@signalscv.com.

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

Respecting the Ethic of Respect

By David Hegg

I

n society, respect plays an essential role. At its foundation, respect means to act in alignment with certain societal rules, even when to do so is to go against how we feel. For example, respect for the law means obeying it even when we don’t want to. Respect for others means valuing them as fellow human travelers on the road even when we disagree with them. If we break it down, respect is one of the few fundamental foundation stones of an ordered, civil society.

And we’re losing it at an alarming rate.

Many of our national leaders recognize that acting disrespectful toward their opponents actually increases their popularity with their supporters.

And, at the other end of the societal spectrum, children in the home and students in our schools often suffer no repercussions for blatantly disrespectful words and actions.

At the risk of great oversimplification, I’d like to offer three reasons we are losing all semblance of respect in our country, and our world.

First, we have undermined respect for truth.

This happens when we shift the genesis of truth from outside us to inside us. That is, does truth reside outside of the human heart and mind, or is it formed and verified inside us through our own perceptions, desires and feelings?

History has always insisted on the former. Truth exists. Absolute truth exists, and it is our human task to recognize it, codify it and submit to it. Of course, this is where ethics come into play. Regardless of what you and I take as authoritative, be it the Bible, or natural law, or personal experience, we all know some things just are true, and how you feel about them doesn’t alter that.

But this has all changed. Now, truth is what each individual wants to believe. I can now decide what is true for me, and you must at least respect it, even if it means you have now disrespected the whole meaning of truth itself.

Second, our erosion in understanding the existence of absolute truth has fatally damaged our respect for authority. If I can make up my own truth, then I can override the truth that certain positions, such as parent, law enforcement officer, teacher, manager, senator, or even president rightly demand respect. I can justify acting disrespectfully, even unlawfully, and certainly discourteously, and still consider my actions ethical.

Lastly — and I say this knowing this column of 791 words cannot do justice to the issue before

us — all this has caused us to lose respect for one another. Having jettisoned an objective standard for truth, and along with it, respect for positions of authority, we have conjured up a corrupt ethic that actually allows us to feel good about acting badly. We are no longer courteous, but cynical, critical, and often outrageous in our personal interactions. We’ve determined that disagreement with someone’s truth asserts that they are not only wrong, but so dangerous they need to be punished.

Two things make this even worse. First, too many of our leaders in politics, entertainment, athletics and religion are slashing their opponents to death with disrespectful, barbed-wire tongues.

Second, the media, both professional and social, are making sure we see and hear about it while making sure we see it their way.

Years ago, while working in the banking world, I was privileged to work with an amazing boss who taught me so much about how the world works.

I can remember him saying, “David, never come into my office with a complaint or problem unless you also have thought about how to solve it. Never bring a problem without offering a solution.”

Certainly, that applies here. So here goes. First, we have to agree that the fundamental truths of right and wrong, of interpersonal relationships, and most of all, personal identity, are not up for grabs to be altered by personal feelings or desire.

Second, we must train our hearts and our children to respect authority and act with civility even when they don’t feel like it. Lastly, we must re-commit to loving our neighbor, to doing unto others as we would want them to do to us.

You all know I am a Christ-follower, and believe the Bible is the very words of God breathed out to human authors who were preserved from error in their writings. Yes, I’m one of those. But I also believe that what we believe should make us better people, better husbands and wives, better moms and dads, better neighbors and better citizens.

Whatever your worldview, let’s agree that proper respect, courtesy, honesty and love for one another are essential if we’re to recover the ethical system that once made America the greatest country in the world.

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

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