Sunday Signal December 13, 2020

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Light Up Your Holiday Spirit Page 5

DECEMBER 13, 2020

Your News, Entertainment & Lifestyle Source

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TIPS FOR HANDLING HOLIDAY STRESS

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MORE FOR YOUR HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE

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A CALORIE CHECK FOR THE HOLIDAY SEASON

PLUS : CITY NEWS | OPINION | SCHOOL | ENTERTAINMENT | CALENDAR | HEALTH & FITNESS

D E C E M B E R 13, 2020

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 3

TABLE OF CONTENTS

NEWS FEATURES

4 Favorite Christmas stories and songs 5 Holiday lights shine bright in Santa Clarita 6 Tradition a major component of Hanukkah celebrations A few Christmas-themed celebrations for the holidays 7 Experts discuss beating the holiday blues 16 A few quick and easy holiday gift suggestions

FROM THE CITY MANAGER

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8 Happy Birthday to the City of Santa Clarita

ENTERTAINMENT 9

Need Help With Distance Learning?

Students will complete all assignments while in our program, and engage in fun and safe social setting!

9 Kids and adults will enjoy the story behind Santa’s letters

FOOD 10 10 Michele makes … Hanukkah desserts

GIFT GUIDE 11 GARDENING 17

ENROLL NOW

17 December Santa Clarita garden care tips

SENIOR LIVING

18 Four signs that an aging loved one needs support

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HEALTH 19 19 How many calories are burned during physical activities?

PETS 20 20 Create a pet-friendly home this holiday season

KIDS & FAMILY

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2 1 Donna’s Day: It’s Peppermint Bark season Get the Picture?

Did you Know? Creativity

PUZZLES 22 OPINION 23

Welcome to Eggs ‘n’ Things The Best Breakfast Restaurant Around!

Order online at www.eggsnthings.net

Friends

Engaged Students

27560 Newhall Ranch Rd. Valencia 91355

661-702-8664 SINCE 1919

Safe Fun

SignalSCV. com

Publisher Sunday Signal Editor Signal Editor Production Manager

Richard Budman Perry Smith Tim Whyte Doña Uhrig

26330 Diamond Place, Suite 100 | Santa Clarita, CA 91350

661-259-1234 The entire content of the Sunday Signal is copyrighted 2019 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.

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D E C E M B E R 13, 2020

H O L I D AY

By Laurisa White Reyes Signal Contributing Writer

‘The Polar Express’

he best job I ever had was during my first year of college when I worked for a little shop in Montrose called “Once Upon A Time.”

The shop smelled of fresh paper and lavender and offered the most wonderful assortment of children’s literature available anywhere.

The shop had the uncanny habit of drawing, not just children but wideeyed adults through its doors. Grown women in particular floated spellbound through the aisles as though they were the Darling children arriving in Neverland for the first time.

As a bookseller, I always enjoyed selecting just the right title for a customer who might be looking for that special gift for a grandchild or to add to her own collection. Each day, I spent a few quiet moments between customers perusing the newest titles on the shelves.

Many years have passed since I last stepped through those magical doors into “Once Upon A Time,” but my love of books has only grown.

The Christmas season is particularly sentimental as I pull down my cherished books about the most beloved holiday of the year. Here is a list some of the best Christmas stories ever written.

A young boy waits for the sound of Santa’s sleigh bells on Christmas Eve, but awakens instead to the sound of a train whistle. What follows is a memorable trip to the North Pole and an experience he will never forget.

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‘The Crippled Lamb’

by Max Lucado

A tender tale of a crippled lamb who is left behind while his flock goes grazing in a distant field. During the night, a young couple visit his stable and he helps keep their new little baby warm.

‘The Snowman’

by Raymond Briggs

A boy wakes one morning to find that the snowman he built the day before has come to life. He takes the snowman on a tour of his home and then enjoys a day outdoors in the snowman’s world. There is no text, but this story is brilliantly told through delightful pictures.

‘How the Grinch Stole Christmas’

by Dr. Suess

As the Whos in Whoville prepare for Christmas, the Grinch schemes how to stop Christmas from coming.

What he learns is that Christmas is more than gifts and decorations.

Christmas is in the heart.

‘The Small One’

by Alex Walsh

Print version of the classic Christmas animated film about a boy and his beloved donkey, Small One. The boy is forced to sell his friend and searches for the perfect master. He finally finds him in a gentle man who needs Small One to carry his pregnant wife to Bethlehem.

‘The Littlest Angel’

by Eric Carle

A farmer dreams of snow and imagines his animals, named One, Two, Three, Four and Five, covered in white. He awakens to find the world covered in real snow, not dream

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snow. He dons a familiar suit and accompanies his animals to decorate the tree. Children love pushing the button at the end to hear the Christmas jingle.

Ebenezer Scrooge, who is visited by three ghosts that take him through Christmas past, present and future.

‘The Best Christmas Pageant Ever’

A husband and wife struggle to find the perfect gift for each other.

In doing so, they learn about the true meaning of love through sacrifice.

by Barbara Robinson

A family of rough and rowdy kids learn what Christmas is all about when they are cast in the local Christmas pageant. This humorous yet touching story has delighted kids of all ages for many years.

And, of course, there always are the following classic favorites.

‘A Christmas Carol’

by Charles Dickens

The wonderful tale of a bitter

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usic is integral to many celebrations during the holiday season. Whether you’re getting your home ready for the holidays or looking to get in the holiday spirit, you might want to explore this list of some of the top Christmas songs according to Spotify.

• All I Want For Christmas Is You — Mariah Carey • Last Christmas ­(remastered) — Wham!

• Jingle Bells — Bing Crosby • Santa Tell Me — Ariana Grande • Jingle Bell Rock — Bobby Helms • Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree — Brenda Lee • Its the Most Wonderful Time of the Year — Andy Williams • O Holy Night — Bing Crosby

‘The Gift of the Magi’

by O. Henry

‘‘Twas The Night Before Christmas’

by Clement Clarke Moore

The classic book read in millions of households on Christmas Eve. This poem is actually titled A visit from St. Nicolas. 

• Let It Snow! Let It Snow! Let It Snow! — Dean Martin • Christmas (Baby Please Come Home) — Mariah Carey • Sleigh Ride — The Ronettes • Hark! The Herald Angels Sing — Bing Crosby • Mistletoe — Justin Bieber • Holly Jolly Christmas — Michael Bublé • Underneath the Tree — Kelly Clarkson • Wonderful Christmastime — Paul McCartney • Silent Night — Bing Crosby • Jingle Bell Rock — Daryl Hall & John Oates • Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas — Sam Smith • Feliz Navidad — José Feliciano 

D E C E M B E R 13, 2020

Holiday lights shine bright in Santa Clarita

By Signal Staff

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o place celebrates the holiday season like the Santa Clarita Valley, whether it’s the recent Light Up Main Street event, or renowned Wakefield Winter Wonderland in Saugus, which is really the SCV’s “Candy Cane Lane” — an area where the neighbors have come together to go all out with Christmas lights, lawn decorations and more.

The latter option is well-known to locals and also previously uses the crowds each year to help support those less fortunate with a holiday drive.

This year, just like every place else, the homeowners are doing their best to spread their Christmas cheer, but they’ve also modified the experience, and they’re asking visitors to do the same.

This year, there may be slight changes to how many homes are decorated, as some folks are taking precautions to try and not draw as many individuals from throughout the community into their neighborhood.

Many have also posted signs asking anyone visiting or walking through on foot to please wear a mask and respect social distancing guidelines.

Wakefield Winter Wonderland

Due to the Los Angeles County Public Health Department’s latest protocols to reduce the risk of spreading COVID-19, the neighborhood’s Facebook page for Wakefield Winter Wonderland offers a caution for visi-

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Thousands make the trip through Wakefield Court each year, which has a celebrated tradition as the Santa Clarita Valley’s “Candy Cane Lane,” a neighborhood where almost every home is absolutely covered in Christmas cheer. This year, in a modified display, Wakefield Court residents encourage people to drive through and see the decorated homes. SIGNAL PHOTO

tors, and a request: “The community decorations (Candy canes, Wakefield sign, story board, light post decor, etc.) will not be used and some houses will be dark and not participating like in years past,” according to a pinned post from Nov. 9.

During the holiday season, places throughout the Santa Clarita Valley are decorated with Christmas and Hanukkah celebrations. In 2018, there were 41 houses on Wakefield Court participating in the decorations — that number is less this year, but you can still visit the holiday cheer.

In years past, the line going into the street has spanned all the way down to Copper Hill Drive, but with the protocols in place, the neighborhood is asking for those who would like to visit to do so by driving through, as opposed to on foot. The most active hours are about 6-9 p.m.

“If anyone does walk through, PLEASE follow LA County health guidelines: Wear a mask and keep 6 feet apart,” according to the Facebook post.

Holiday Lights Tour

Traditionally, Santa Clarita Transit offers a Holiday Lights Tour in the various decorated neighborhoods in the SCV. Due to COVID-19 restrictions, the city of Santa Clarita Transit system is not hosting its tour this year, which usually stops at: Homestead Place (just east of Wakefield Court),

Clearidge Drive, Littleton Way, Royal Oaks Road and Canterwood Drive, just to name a few. It’s always possible to drive by these neighborhoods on your own, but it’s also a good idea to stay in the car this year if possible.

Westfield Valencia Town Center

Sits with Santa, virtual scavenger hunts and more are planned this holiday season at Westfield Valencia Town Center, which is always fully decorated with holiday cheer throughout the mall.

“Westfield Valencia Town Center looks forward to bringing back a reimagined festive experience that allows you and your families to safely shop, dine, and play this holiday season,” said Maral Matossian, general manager of Westfield Valencia Town Center.

While you’re checking out the holiday lights, you can also check out the Westfield Holiday Hunt, an immersive, augmented reality scavenger hunt that brings the magic of the holidays to life using CGI technology.

Guests will discover unique QR codes displayed throughout each center. When scanned, they will unlock exclusive, original characters and artwork such as a snowman concierge that welcomes and guides you on your hunt; a flying Santa sleigh; and customizable winter wonderland photo backgrounds.

A visit with Santa also is a part of the holiday experience for so many

people and this year, and Westfield Valencia Town Center partnered with Cherry Hill Programs to bring Santa to the mall. The program was created to allow families to enjoy the Santa experience while staying safe.

Downtown Newhall

Every year, the city of Santa Clarita goes all out to decorate Downtown Newhall, another annual city tradition that brings joy to thousands.

The Light Up Main Street event has been a sort of holiday kickoff locally for the last few years, centering around a ceremony on Main Street.

All the way down the street, lights line the street along with occasional holiday arches with messages to help ring in the holiday season.

While again, most residents weren’t able to take part in the event due to COVID-19, the city put together a livestream that people can watch and, of course, the city still decorated Newhall with all of the holiday cheer it could spare.

To check out the virtual flip of the switch, visit: bit.ly/LightUpMain Street2020.

Philbrook Avenue in Valencia

An additional decorated street to see this holiday season is Philbrook Avenue, a more mellow alternative to the Wakefield Court. On the street, not all the houses are decorated — but there are homes that in the past, have offered interesting, interactive elements to those who come to visit. 

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D E C E M B E R 13, 2020

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Tradition a major component of Hanukkah celebrations

By Signal Staff

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radition is a major component of the Jewish faith, so it’s no surprise that tradition plays such a central role during the celebration of Hanukkah.

Although some are quick to note Hanukkah is not one of the major Jewish holidays, it is celebrated in a very public fashion. Hanukkah celebrants make the holiday more high profile by displaying their menorahs in prominent locations and participating in holiday meals.

Like other Jewish holidays, Hanukkah is shrouded in tradition. Hanukkah means “dedication” or “induction” in Hebrew. The holiday begins on the 25th of Kislev, and can occur in either November or December.

Also known as the Festival of Lights, Hanukkah includes menorah displays, traditional foods and games and songs.

Hanukkah rose to prominence thanks in part to the story of faith and

miracle behind its inception. Antiochus IV was a Greek sovereign in control of the region of Syria, Egypt and Palestine, where many Jews resided.

Antiochus began to oppress the Jews, prohibiting the practice of the Jewish religion and desecrating the Jewish Temple. Opposition to Antiochus grew, and a group led by Mattathias the Hasmonean and his son, Judah Maccabee, took on the Syrian army. They were successful in their efforts to combat religious oppression, and the Temple was subsequently rededicated. The Talmud states that, at the time of the rededication, there was very little oil left that had not been defiled by the Greeks. This posed a problem because oil was needed to burn the Temple menorah throughout the night every night.

However, there was only enough left for one night’s illumination. Miraculously, that oil burned for eight nights, leading to the development of an eight-day festival to commemorate this miracle.

Because Hanukkah is about the

miracle of the oil and the lasting flame, oil and candles factor heavily in the holiday. A nine-armed menorah called the hanukiah is lit, and one candle is lit on each of the eight nights of the celebration. The last branch of the candelabra holds the shamash (servant) candle. The organization Reform Judaism says the traditional song “Ma’oz Tzur (Rock of Ages)” is sung after the lighting of the candles each night and at other times throughout the holiday. Foods fried in oil, including latkes and jelly doughnuts, are consumed as well.

Celebrants play games with a dreidel, a German-based spinning top, and giving to charity is encouraged.

Hanukkah is one of the few times of the year when rabbis permit games of chance. The letters atop the dreidel stand for the first letter of each word in the Hebrew statement “Neis gadol hayah sham,” which translates to “A great miracle happened there,” and refers to the defeat of the Syrian army and the rededication of the Temple. 

Hanukkah cooking class

Monday, Dec. 14, 6 p.m.

Live from the Blazer family kitchen, learn how to make a delicious variety of latkes. https://us02web.zoom.us/j/8815509 5526 Meeting ID: 881 5509 5526

Celebrating the Festival of Lights Temple Beth Ami is hosting a virtual candle-lighting ceremony to celebrate each night for Hanukkah at 6 p.m. https://us02web.zoom.us/j/831748 4176 Visit TempleBethAmi.org for more information.

Chabad of SCV is also hosting a virtual candle-lighting, and offering materials anyone might need for the blessing.

Visit ChabadSCV.com for more information.

A few Christmas-themed celebrations for the holidays The Holiday Express

364 Main St., Fillmore Runs until Dec. 20 The train departs from returns to the historic Fillmore Depot. Enjoy a scenic train ride on vintage cars this holiday season, an 80-minute ride that includes a stop at “Prancer’s Christmas Farm.”

Admission to Prancer’s is free, so bring the family to visit the 30-acre farm, which is transformed into a winter experience. (Some of the attractions at Prancer’s have charges.)

Visit Fwry.com for more information.

The North Pole Express

Runs until Dec. 20 18540 E Telegraph Road Santa Paula “Welcome to North Pole Express Experience!

Come early or stay late to enjoy Prancer’s Christmas Farm (located in Santa Paula off Highway 126). Then come onboard for a round-trip magical 1 hour evening train ride to the “North Pole.”

See and wave at Santa and his elves! Enjoy some storytelling fun. We welcome you to wear your pajamas and bring blankets (optional). Please be sure to wear good walking shoes and additional warm clothing. Some train car windows will remain open for added ventilation.

Visit bit.ly/NorthPoleExpressSantaPaula for more information.

you will be emailed your promotion to present to the participating retailer; 4. Find all 10 QR codes and redeem your prize*! You will be emailed a voucher to redeem a $20 Westfield Rewards AMEX gift card from Jan. 1-31.

Visit Westfield.com/valencia/event-detail/ The-Holiday-Hunt for more information.

Christmas Reimagined

The North Pole Express offers private tables and a socially distanced, fun, family-friendly way to get out and experience a little holiday magic this season.

PHOTO COURTESY PRANCER’S FARM

The Holiday Hunt

Goes until Dec. 24, 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Westfield Valencia Town Center 24201 W. Valencia Blvd., Valencia Westfield invites the community to seek out all 10 virtual holiday characters within the center for exclusive promotions.

How it works: 1. Start the hunt when you scan any Holiday Hunt QR code; 2. Find the 10 QR codes across the center to unlock exclusive promotions; 3. Once you find your QR code and scan it,

Christmas Sunday, Dec. 20, 8 a.m., 9:45 a.m., 11:30 a.m. (indoor, patio and online) Candlelight services, Wednesday, Dec. 23, 6 p.m., 7:45 p.m.

Elevate Church 24346 Main St., Newhall, This event looks to offer an engaging and creative musical experience, special e-experience for kids and free hot chocolate.

Games & Gifts

The Sanctuary Church 26444 Friendly Valley Parkway, Santa Clarita Sunday, Dec. 20 Young Adults are asked to bring a wrapped gift (no more than $5) for a classic Christmas gift exchange and game night. Bring your face-covering and competitive spirit, if you’d like to join in the fun at the church.

For more information, visit https://bit.ly/Santuary Events for more information. 

D E C E M B E R 13, 2020

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 7

Experts discuss beating the holiday blues

By Perry Smith Sunday Signal Editor

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veryone seems to be having a little tougher year this holiday season.

Many who have loved ones considered at risk for COVID-19 were forced to scuttle last-minute plans to see family at Thanksgiving.

Now a new health order that’s just taken effect will once again close down many businesses, some permanently, forcing many to once again reshape their plans and expectations.

Everyone also knows that can be a stressful experience especially, during the most stressful times of year, during one of the most stressful times in recent memory. That’s understood.

But what can people do to make things easier?

Whether you’re dealing with more common holiday-related stress issues or have a unique problem is something you’ve never encountered before — or a combination of the two, such as dealing with grief and

MINDFUL TIPS Mind your budget Principal Financial Group found that 53 percent of people experience financial stress due to holiday spending, even though more than half of those polled had set a budget.

Outsource when possible If an activity stresses you out, see if you can exchange a task with a relative

Treat yourself responsibly Every once in a while it’s ok to treat yourself to something nice — within reason, budget and diet

OK to say ‘No’ While the holidays can make us feel pressure, it’s also important to remember boundaries.

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loss during an unprecedented global health crisis — there are a lot of ways you can make things easier on yourself and your loved ones.

Ways to keep stress lighter

Dr. Raj Gupta, author of “Wellness Center Solution: How Physicians Can Transform Their Practices, Their Income and Their Lives,” and founder of Soul Focus Wellness Center, lists a few ways to beat holiday stress.

Walk somewhere besides the mall.

A brisk half-hour walk a day relaxes the brain and improves sleep. A study

by California State University found a 10-minute walk increases energy, alters mood and can bring a positive outlook for up to two hours. “There’s a rhythm to it that relaxes the brain,” Gupta says. “It’s a proven stress-reducer. Movement makes the worries keep their distance.”

Drink heavily … water, that is!

Many people over-imbibe during the holidays and it has a detrimental affect on their wellness. Water brings weight loss and keeps your body in balance for all kinds of stressors. “A whopping 75% of all Americans are dehydrated,” Gupta says. “Staying properly hydrated is a panacea for what ails you — from daytime fatigue to headaches to back and joint pain to losing weight. Why wait ’til after the holidays to lose weight?”

Give gratitude. In the rush to get everything done, we forget to appreciate what we have. Gupta says pausing to reflect brings a perspective that calms you down. “Take a few moments to really relish your health and all your blessings,” Gupta says. “The holidays are a perfect time to remember all that.”

Overcoming grief

If you’re struggling with loss around the holidays, the challenges can feel intense, but there are tools you can develop, in yourself, that can make coping and being happy again easier, according to Jeff Zhorne, who tries to help people who are struggling to overcome their grief.

“It’s a set of tools and skills to finish what was and stay in the moment — it’s the only way I know to get out of regret and deal with the loss of hopes and dreams,” said Zhorne, who’s worked one-on-one with people at

Between all the virtual events, the social distancing and the challenges we face this holiday season, it’s important to remind yourself of a few ways you can de-stress or, if necessary, talk to someone. (MC)

The Grief Program for more than 20 years.

Zhorne works with clients on “our amends and our forgiveness and our significant emotional statements,” because getting better at “living in the moment” as we’re always told to do, can make things much easier, he said.

Zhorne offers a free consultation at (661) 733-0692.

Asking for help

“We just know it in theory, and in anecdotal information … also from people we know, and from people we’re working with, that there’s a lot of people out there who are dealing with major personal issues, and these can include issues that they may have had, that are pre-existing to the COVID virus like (obsessive compulsive disorder) or bipolar,” said Larry Schallert, who leads the Suicide Prevention, Postvention and Wellness Committee, which meets inside the College of the Canyons Student Health Center, where Schallert is also assistant director.

While approximately 1 in 4 adults suffer from a diagnosable mental illness in a given year, according to a

study done by John Hopkins Medicine, there can be stigma and other perceived challenges in getting help if you need to talk to someone.

However, Schallert’s group has been working to make it easier for people to get help, and understand all the many resources that are out there.

“We know that mental health is a serious concern of our community but sometimes people do not know where to turn,” said Larry Schallert, chair of the SCV Suicide Prevention, Postvention and Wellness Committee. “(BeTheDifferenceSCV.org) is a site that is reliable and local, with a trove of information that cannot be found anywhere else.”

The SCV Suicide Prevention, Postvention and Wellness Committee, along with the city of Santa Clarita and numerous other organizations, launched the campaign “Be The Difference” with a website and Facebook page aimed to provide easy access to local mental health resources.

Anyone seeking someone to talk to can see a list of local resources, most free or low cost, at BeTheDifference SCV.org. 

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D E C E M B E R 13, 2020

FROM THE CITY MANAGER

Happy Birthday to the City of Santa Clarita

By Ken Striplin City Manager

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n just two days, our great City will celebrate another milestone — Santa Clarita’s 33rd birthday. Many long-time residents remember the era before the City incorporated and the years-long battle for cityhood. So why was it so important that Santa Clarita became a City?

It gave our residents easy access to locally elected officials, who are more responsive and aware of issues directly affecting our community. It ensured that locally generated tax dollars are spent right here in our City and are used to build new parks, trails, roads, bridges, sidewalks, for street improvements, transportation amenities and so much more.

Originally measuring 39 square miles, with only 130,000 residents at the time of our incorporation, the

City now spans more than 60 square miles and is home to more than 225,000 residents!

Although we have grown, we still retain our small-town feel with many big-city opportunities.

Back on December 15, 1987, there were only a handful of parks in the fledgling City. Now Santa Clarita boasts 35 beautiful parks with trails to explore, fields to play sports, playgrounds for kids, public art pieces and much more.

Our City is known as a familyoriented community set against the backdrop of rolling hills and picturesque open space. We are regularly recognized for the high quality of life our residents enjoy.

Santa Clarita has ranked high on esteemed review lists for safety, healthy lifestyle, business-friendly environment and more. We were voted one of the Happiest Cities in the nation prior to the safer at home public health orders, and during the

COVID shutdown, we were ranked the seventh-best place in the nation to be Stuck at Home during a pandemic.

Even with the challenges this current year has brought us, the future of Santa Clarita is looking bright.

We have two major milestone projects coming online next year. The new Canyon Country Community Center at Soledad Canyon Road and Sierra Highway is on track for completion in mid-2021. The new facility will offer opportunities for enrichment, activity and learning and ample outdoor recreation space.

Meanwhile, on Golden Valley Road, the final touches are being put on the new Santa Clarita Valley Sheriff ’s Station. A joint project between the City and Los Angeles County Fifth District Supervisor Kathryn Barger, the new station will be handed over to the Sheriff ’s Department in summer 2021.

In addition, plans are in the works

for an enhanced shelter facility for Bridge to Home and a new admin/ housing building for Family Promise.

Both organizations are devoted to our neighbors experiencing homelessness.

Santa Clarita is a unique and special community that has truly lived up to the vision of our founding fathers. I am proud of our organization’s work over the past 33 years – thanks to the devoted leadership of our City Council. We will continue to provide our residents with top-notch customer services and the high-quality City resources they enjoy.

Please join me in wishing Santa Clarita a happy 33rd birthday, and to all of you … happy holidays.

Ken Striplin can be reached at kstriplin@santa-clarita.com. The views expressed in his column are those of the City and do not necessarily reflect those of The Signal. 

D E C E M B E R 13, 2020

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 9

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

Kids and adults can enjoy the story behind Santa’s letters

By Richard Roeper Signal Contributing Writer

‘Dear Santa’

1/2 (out of four) 

IFC Films presents a documentary directed by Dana Nachman. Rated G. Running time: 84 minutes.

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ot all of Santa’s elves work their magic at the North Pole.

From California to Arizona, from Chicago to New York City, some of Santa’s finest helpers perform miracles every holiday season for thousands upon thousands of children who otherwise might not find anything under the Christmas tree. Pour a cup of cheer and toast filmmaker Dana Nachman for telling the stories of some of these elves and the families who have benefited from the fruits of their tireless volunteer labor in “Dear Santa,” a sprightly feel-good documentary that comes at a time when we could use a lift — and serves as a reminder there are an awful lot of truly good people in this world.

With bouncy holiday pop tunes such as “Jingle Bell Rock,” “Here Comes Santa Claus (Right Down Santa Claus Lane)” and “Reindeer Rock” setting the mostly light and sentimental mood, “Dear Santa” hops about the country, introducing us to the beyond-adorable kids who are writing letters to Santa (or in some cases, helping the grown-ups answer letters to Santa) as well as some of the most dedicated adult “elves,” who never break character when they talk about what it’s like to work for Santa.

(Put it this way: The littlest of little ones could watch this movie with their parents and still come away believing in the big guy in the red suit.)

As we learn in a title card, “Back in 1907, Santa reached out to the U.S. Postal Service and asked them to help deliver the thousands of letters he gets every year. Today, their partnership has grown into a massive nationwide program called OPERATION SANTA.” You probably know how it works, at least on the surface. Kids write letters to Santa, the local post office flags those letters and diverts them to volunteers who open the letters,

PHOTO COURTESY IMDB

divide them according to the number of kids in a family and/or particular items listed, and then it’s up to good-hearted folks who have a few extra coins in their pocket to “adopt” a family — folks such as Damion, an “Adopter Elf ” who rounds up donations for families in a lower-income neighborhood in East Harlem, noting, “Sometimes it can be tough for Santa to get to certain locations.”

(The film identifies the adult elves and the members of recipient families by only first names, so we’re going to honor that.)

Meanwhile, at the Cardiss Collins Processing and Distribution Center in Chicago, lead elf Janice is overseeing an operation in which potential adopter elves can walk right in and comb through the letters and, we hope, select a family or two. (Chicago and New York are the last two cities where Operation Santa offers physical hard letters. Everywhere else, the letters have been scanned and digitized for expediency.) Among the most prolific elves: Chicagoans Jen, Matt and Ashley, who in 2006 formed a nonprofit so they could answer letters to Santa on a large scale, particularly requests from families with six or seven or eight children.

Director Nachman expertly sprinkles in some “kids say the darndest things” interviews for comic relief, and melts our hearts when we meet the likes of Christopher in El Mirage,

Arizona, a sweet and soft-spoken boy who dreams of getting a rabbit for Christmas. “I love rabbits a lot,” he says. “They just fill my heart up with joy.” Christopher recalls going to a pet store and holding a rabbit who didn’t want him to let go; he says quietly, “I felt bad for the guy.”

Spoiler alert: Someone gets a bunny for Christmas, and if you can watch that scene without losing it, you’re an early stage Ebenezer Scrooge, my friend.

Equally touching is a surprise gift of a new puppy to a family in Lansing, Michigan, after the oldest daughter had written a letter to Santa saying he could skip presents for her and even leave her stocking empty if she could see the look on her little siblings’ faces if they got a puppy. When the puppy arrives and the children learn it is theirs to keep, the littlest one jumps into her big sister’s arms and says, “We get a puppy!”

I’m dead.

I also loved the animal request segment, with the camera zeroing in on handwritten requests for an iguana, a cat, a horse, a “real pig,” a frog, a mouse, a reindeer, “a big moose,” etc.

One child puts in a dual request for a dog and a brother, with a P.S.: “The brother thing, Mom won’t let me have a brother but Dad will.”

Filled with humor and heart and an unabashedly sentimental, can-do spirit, “Dear Santa” is one of the most wonderful films of the year.

‘Mario Puzo’s The Godfather, Coda: The Death of Michael Corleone’



1/2 Paramount Home Entertainment presents a film directed by Francis Ford Coppola. Written by Francis Ford Coppola and Mario Puzo. Rated R (for violence and language).

I

n the years since the 1990 release of “The Godfather Part III,” Francis Coppola’s followup to his brilliant twin masterpieces of the early 1970s, the third chapter of the trilogy almost became a punch line, held up as the classic example of how even the greatest movie franchises often experience a steep decline when we get to Part III.

Thirty years after the December 1990 premiere of “The Godfather Part III,” director/producer/co-writer Francis Ford Coppola and Paramount have released a restored and re-edited version with Coppola’s original title: “Mario Puzo’s The Godfather, Coda: The Death of Michael Corleone.”

Having watched the original and the recut back-to-back, I found the new cut to be more cohesive and more impactful, including a final shot that proves less is often more when one is telling such an epic tale.

Coppola intended the third film to be an epilogue that serves to sum up and bring closure to the original saga, and this recut to breathe new life into the picture. He has achieved just that.

Set in 1979, “The Godfather, Coda” still has the rich brown and gold sepia earth tones that permeated the entire franchise, but the restored version looks brighter and crisper. The first major change in the timeline comes right off the bat; whereas “Part III” opened with flashbacks to the killing of Fredo in “Godfather II” and took a long windup before getting into a major storyline about Michael investing $600 million with the Vatican, “Coda” opens on Michael meeting with Archbishop Gilday (Donal Donnelly), the head of the Vatican bank. (This scene didn’t occur until the 40-minute mark of the original.)

This immediately establishes that “Coda” will be in large part about Michael’s desire to leave the crime world behind him once and for all, leading to the movie’s most quoted line: “Just when I thought I was out, they pull me back in!”

Perhaps the most significant change in “Coda” is the ending, which Coppola has sculpted in a way that closes the curtain with more dignity and resonance. The third “Godfather” movie will always be the third-best “Godfather” movie, but Coppola’s new vision does slightly narrow what remains a fairly large gap. A “Godfather” film that’s a distant third is still a “Godfather” film worth treasuring.  Copyright 2020 Chicago Sun-Times

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D E C E M B E R 13, 2020

FOOD

Michele makes … Hanukkah desserts

By Michele E. Buttelman Signal Staff Writer

3/4 cups caramel sauce 2 tbsp. milk

il played a significant role in the Hanukkah story, the small jug of oil that miraculously provided fuel for the Temple Menorah for eight days. It is tradition to eat foods that use oil and dairy during Hanukkah. I recently reconnected with an old college friend who shared a few of the easy desserts she makes every year to celebrate the miracle of Hanukkah.

Whisk the flour, baking powder, pumpkin pie spice and salt together in a bowl. Set aside.

O

Caramel Glazed Applesauce Donuts Drop donuts

2 1/2 cups flour 2 1/2 tsp. baking powder 1 1/2 tsp. pumpkin pie spice 1/4 tsp. salt 3 tbsp. soft butter 1/2 cup white sugar 1/4 cup brown sugar 2 eggs 1 cup unsweetened applesauce 1 tsp. vanilla extract 1/4 cup milk

Oil for frying

Caramel glaze: 1 3/4 cups powdered sugar

1/2 cup strawberry or raspberry jam

With a hand mixer cream butter and sugars together until fluffy. Add eggs, one at a time, beat until smooth. Add applesauce and vanilla extract. Mix. Add in the flour mixture, in small amounts, alternating with milk. Mix until just combined. Do not overmix, your donuts will be tough.

Let dough sit at room temperature for 20 minutes before rolling out on a floured surface. Roll 1/2-inch thick, then cut out 3-inch circles using a round cookie-cutter.

Heat oil in a pot or deep fryer to 370 F. Fry discs until each side is a deep brown. Test to ensure inside is not doughy.

Cool donuts on a paper towel. Then, fill cooled donuts using a squeeze bottle with jam.

Heat three to four inches of oil in a deep, heavy bottomed pot or deep fryer to 375 F.

Tip Warm jam in microwave for 30 seconds to make it easier to squeeze into donuts).

Drop batter, one tablespoon at a time, into the oil.

Don’t overcrowd the pot, only cook four to five donuts at a time. Fry until golden brown, flipping once halfway.

Sprinkle donuts with powdered sugar.

Remove cooked donuts from oil with a slotted spoon and set on a paper towel lined plate to cool.

Mix ingredients for caramel glaze in a small bowl.

Dip cooled donuts into glaze.

Easiest Sufganiyot (Jelly Donuts)

1 Roll of store-bought regular biscuit dough (not the flaky biscuit kind)

Oil for frying

Powdered sugar

Gelt Fudge

3 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips 1 can sweetened condensed milk 1 tsp. vanilla 1/4 tsp. salt Combine chocolate chips and condensed milk in bowl. Microwave for 1 minute. Stir until smooth. If more time is required, continue heating in increments of 10 seconds. Stir in vanilla and salt. Spread into a dish lined with waxed paper. Refrigerate for 1/2 hour. Cut fudge into desired shapes and wrap in foil. Refrigerate fudge until ready to eat.  Recipes courtesy Miriam Hersh

1. Use a tablespoon measuring spoon of dough, or use about half a tablespoon of dough using a standard tablespoon for each Caramel Glazed Applesauce Donut.

2. Drop dough into fryer.

3. Wait for dough to turn a golden, or deep brown before removing from fryer. Test the first donut to make sure it is completely cooked.

4. Make a caramel glaze with powdered sugar and caramel sauce.

5. Drop Caramel Glazed Applesauce Donuts into the caramel glaze.

6. For Easy Jelly Donuts, fill a squeeze bottle with jam and pipe jam into donuts.

7. Fill Easy Jelly Donuts with jam and cover with powdered sugar.

8. A plate of Easiest Sufganiyot (Jelly Donuts) and Caramel Glazed Applesauce Donuts.

D E C E M B E R 13, 2020

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S U N D AYS I G N A L · 1 1

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D E C E M B E R 13, 2020

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D E C E M B E R 13, 2020

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D E C E M B E R 13, 2020

N E W S F E AT U R E

A few quick and easy holiday gift suggestions

By Tammy Murga Signal Staff Writer

H

oliday shopping can be a stressful part of the season, especially during the final days leading up to the holiday, when you’re scrambling through last-minute suggestions.

Much like everything else this year, holiday shopping has, and will continue to, look very different due to the pandemic up until the very last moment as many more consumers are expected to buy online, potentially increasing shipping delays.

But don’t panic, procrastinators.

There’s still time to place orders with fun and thoughtful gifts for everyone on your list, including for the work-from-home-aholic in your life, your parents, teenage sisters and best friends.

Blue-light blocking eyewear

Let’s face it, there’s no exact end date for working from home. Bluelight blocking glasses can not only help reduce glare but alleviate visual fatigue and discomfort for those heavy screen days behind a computer or smartphone.

For under $15, Amazon Prime has ultra-lightweight and flexible glasses with UV4000 protection. They come in a variety of colors and shapes.

Want to add to the gift? Try Warby Parker’s vibrant accessories from its Holiday 2020 list. They have a variety of frames, eyewear chains, practical and stylish glasses cases, and its newly redeveloped Clean My Lenses Kit with Anti-Fog Spray. The retailer also offers a wrapped, holiday-themed gift card that can be delivered to their door or their inbox.

Safety razor

A practical gift is always a win and a specialty razor fits the category.

Take the Bevel’s Safety Razor, which is enjoyed by people of all genders.

The dermatologist-tested tool is designed to help prevent razor bumps and irritation with its double-edged blades and “generously weighted handle,” according to the grooming company.

The razor is also free of plastic and built to be reused, as well as can be

Sometimes a personalized gift works best, or a creative gift that was picked for someone with a particular reason in mind. It’s also a great way to support a boutique or a small business this holiday season. PHOTO BY DAN WATSON / THE SIGNAL

safely recyclable. They are priced at $50 each.

Popcorn popper

Movies and popcorn nights just got easier with the Salbree Microwave Popcorn Popper, a bowl that allows you to pop loose kernels in the microwave. With more than 20 colors and priced at less than $16 each, the bowl’s built-in handles help avoid the need to use hot pads to remove it from the microwave.

Its collapsible design allows for easy storage in small drawers and works perfect for RVs and college dorm rooms, according to the brand.

“Our popcorn maker is easy to use, easy to clean and easy to store and since it’s silicone, it’s virtually indestructible. It’s also dishwasher safe and BPA free,” read Salbree’s website.

Body pillow

The Soft-Tex body pillow is considered Amazon’s No. 1 bestseller. It’s oversized design, measuring 20-by-54 inches and filled with hypoallergenic fiber, allows for ultimate comfort in any position. They run for $22 each.

“Soft-Tex pillows provide incredible comfort for the ultimate sleep experience and truly restorative rest.

By combining the highest quality materials with the latest cooling and support technologies, Soft-Tex creates the perfect pillow for everyone,” reads the company website. “Featuring molded memory foam, fiberfill, or

hybrid blends, Soft-Tex manufactures every kind of pillow for every person: classic pillows, contour pillows, body pillows, bed wedge pillows, oversized pillows, travel pillows, and knee support pillows.”

As the growth in popularity of custom cocktails continues, this fancy tequila kit makes a welcome addition to most bars. COURTESY PHOTO

DIY cocktail

For those on your list who enjoy a strong alcoholic beverage, bring them the gift of mixing things up to their liking with a do-it-yourself cocktail kit. Verve Culture’s Cantaritos Cocktail Kit includes two jarritos de barre cups, a hand juicer, six paper straws and chili-lime seasoning. Each kit can run for $35.

“Known by locals as ‘the best way to drink tequila,’ the jarritos de barro mexicanos cups inspired the Mexican Cantaritos cocktail. The Mexican Cantaritos cocktail is made by rimming the cup with lime juice and chili salt, squeezing fresh lemon, lime, and grapefruit juice in the cup, and adding a splash of tequila and grapefruit soda,” reads the product description.

Skincare galore

Designed to tackle specific skin concerns, Serumkind’s Single & Kind Set offers five mini serums to test out for skincare lovers. The vegan set includes small bottles titled “Black Blossom,” “Iceland Moss,” “Deep Antarctic,” “Purple Cabbage” and “Youth & Glow.” Concerns designed to address include anti-aging, dryness, dullness, fine lines and wrinkles, lift

With access to professional help in salons a little bit harder to come by these days, a timely self-care gift might be very much appreciated. PHOTO COURTESY SERUMKIND

and firming.

It’s pretty simple to use, too.

“After using a toner, apply an appropriate amount of a Serumkind Drop to your face and tap your skin gently until the serum is absorbed,” reads the usage instructions.

Each set is priced at $35. 

D E C E M B E R 13, 2020

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 1 7

December Santa Clarita garden care tips

GARDENING

By Jane Gates Signal Staff Writer

H

opefully, everyone had a safe and enjoyable Thanksgiving. Now we’re on to the last round of holidays for 2020. It is impossible to know what the winter weather will be this year, but prepare for extreme cold, heat, rain, frost, wind, drought and wildfires as best you can! We can get any or all of it!

While the rest of the nation battles freezing temperatures and snow, we get to work outdoors in the garden. Cool weather makes this a good month for construction projects and short days make it easy for new or transplanted plants to settle in. Winter vegetables should be growing comfortably in the vegetable garden and the promise of rain should coax up wildflowers.

You can also plant started vegetables from multipacks. Snap up the last of the best winter vegetables still available for sale. Or, plant seed for later crops of peas, cabbages, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, fava beans, lettuces, radishes, Swiss chard, etc.

Plant root crops like carrots, radishes, and beets from seed, too. And try some less traditional edible root plants like celeriac, parsnip and salsify for variety. Root crops are best planted from seed since they don’t like transplanting. Most vegetables do well with aged manure — all manure should be aged at least four months to destroy potentially dangerous bacteria. But if you are expecting to grow long, straight carrots, avoid adding manure of any kind to your soil as it can encourage the roots to fork.

This is a good time to keep up with weeding.

The tiny plants that germinate right after rain pull easily. You may even want to replace those weeds with some California wildflower plants. Scattering wildflower seed is a handy way to fill up open areas or an empty garden with color for springtime. Just

This was January 2007 in my yard. So snow can happen in Santa Clarita. But winters are warmer so such scenes are a bit less likely these days. Nonetheless, it can happen.

December is a good time to start scouring the garden for natural materials to craft into holiday ornaments and displays.

scatter seeds the day before rain is likely and let nature plant them for you.

Prune dormant trees and shrubs. Sap is flowing more slowly and trees will suffer less stress from cuts or wounds. As the final leaves fall this month, you can shred them and add them to your compost heap.

Pop early spring-blooming bulbs into flower beds or a cutting garden. There is a wide choice of bulbs available now to add colorful flowers to an evergreen garden, add perfume to ordinary plant areas, supply cut flowers or just add excitement to any planter or garden.

Think about adding new sections to the garden, removing lawn, building a raised vegetable garden or working on some garden designing. This is the best time to get projects and plans in gear before the spring rush. Start by listing what you want to do and the materials that will be involved, sketch out a design of the area and how it will go together, then price out and buy your materials so you have everything organized before you start the project.

Keep on planting those hardy annual flower seeds, plants, shrubs and trees. Other hardy plants will likely transplant easily with the moister soil, These two native wildflowers, California Poppy and California Bluebell, both look wonderful together and are easy to grow from seed. Hillsides damaged in wildfires will love a little help from native wildflower seeding.

gentler temperatures and shorter days of December. Make sure the newly planted don’t dry out in spells when there is no rain, and toss a cover of light burlap over them on frosty nights for protection.

Pore through garden furniture, plant and seed catalogs online or printed. They provide a delightful way to spend a cold, windy or rainy day and will give you some interesting ideas for your garden.

And check out some of the local garden centers for fun garden holiday gifts. You might find a gift or two that you and your garden deserve after putting in a year of care and hard work. Some gifts might make work easier, like some useful tools.

Other gifts will make gardening healthier to do, like hats, gloves, sunscreen, knee pads and more.

And still others might just plain be fun, like décor, games, books, and clothes. When in doubt, gift your gardening friends (or yourself) with a gift certificate for shopping in the future!

December is an ideal time to take on outdoor projects while the weather is comfortable for work.

You can add new sections to the garden, plant lawns, build a raised vegetable garden or add some decorative garden edging so your landscape will shine come the spring season. And make sure you provide a spot for rest and relaxation in your garden. If you already have one, I repeat, use it during the hectic holidays!

For more information about gardening in the Santa Clarita Valley, visit Jane Gates on YouTube at https://youtube.com/user/Janieg8s. 

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D E C E M B E R 13, 2020

SENIORLIVING

Four signs that an aging loved one needs support

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he holidays are a time of coming together. While it might look different in 2020, it is even more critical this year to check on aging loved ones who may have been negatively affected by the isolation and loneliness during the ongoing pandemic.

But it can be difficult for us to recognize when our loved ones do need extra support. Whether we get busy or wish to show respect for our loved one’s wishes and independence, we don’t always recognize the signs when they need our help.

Because the signs often go unnoticed, only 10% of adults aging in place are receiving the care they needed. That’s why it’s important to maintain connections and be honest about the changes you’re seeing.

“We must check in on our aging loved ones to make sure they’re doing well,” says Home Helpers CEO and president Emma Dickison. “Changes to appearance, mood, physical mobility or memory can be concerning and might indicate they need a little help with their everyday life.”

Here are four aspects of aging that can help adult children notice a change in their loved ones, to know when it’s time to seek support.

selves out of their home. When these start happening, it’s time to seek some support.

Motor skills and the risk of falling As people increase in age, so does the risk of falling. Older adults lose muscle mass every year, and balance can be affected by aging as well as certain medications. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 3 million older adults a year need emergency room care to treat a fall injury. Visible signs of falling include cuts and bruises on the head, arms and hands.

Shifts in mood and optimism Family and social connections are critical for one’s health and well-being. But as the need to maintain social distance gets in the way of the things your loved one enjoys, it can take a toll on their mood and outlook. Pay attention to your loved one’s demeanor when you call or visit. If they seem down, they may be missing their usual lunch dates and games with friends. To fill the gap, look into companion care options that are available in your community. These caregivers will go to your loved one’s home so they can safely play their favorite games, work on hobbies or just Big changes in physical appearance have a conversation.

Pay attention to any changes you see in Caregivers are specially trained to their bodies and living spaces. Bruishelp keep seniors and other highes and cuts can be signs of a recent risk populations safe and cared for in fall. Note changes in their routine and their homes. Regaining these social hygiene. Perhaps their clothes and dates can give your loved one somehair appear uncharacteristically dirty thing to look forward to. and unkempt. These could be signs of “The COVID-19 pandemic has depression, or they need a hand berippled across the country in myriad cause these tasks have become diffiways, ” Dickison said. “In dealing with cult or painful. Other cues include not aging seniors who have self-isolated preparing their usual meals, a messier to limit exposure, we want to be sure than usual living space. those living independently at home Signs of memory struggles We have the assistance, companionship can all have a memory lapse in daiand care they need.” ly life. Repeating a story, or going Home Helpers offers care and comthrough the roster of grandchildren panionship, specialized care, wellness before hitting on the right name can happen to anyone. Instead, be watch- calls, 24-hour monitoring, and meals and nutrition planning. They conful of memory lapses that can create nect caregivers with clients to provide a dangerous situation for your loved a custom level of assistance and care. one. These may include things like Learn more by visiting HomeHelpers forgetting a meal in a hot oven or repeated incidents of locking themHomeCare.com. (BPT) 

D E C E M B E R 13, 2020

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 1 9

H E A LT H

How many calories are burned during physical activities?

B

urning calories is often a focal point of weight loss efforts. People go to great lengths to burn more calories, but they might be surprised to learn how many they can burn performing relatively routine physical activities.

Men and women also may be surprised to learn that they burn calories differently from one another. According to the Mayo Clinic, men usually have less body fat and more muscle than women of the same age and weight.

As a result, men typically burn more calories than women, though body size and composition also affects how many calories a person will burn while performing a given activity.

For example, a man who is larger and has more muscle than another man his age will burn more calories, even if both men perform the same activity with the same level of intensity.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture cites the following calorie-burning figures for a 154-pound, 5-foot10-inch man who performs certain physical activities.

Women likely won’t burn as many calories performing these activities, but each activity can still be an effective way for men and women to burn more calories.

Walking (3.5 miles per hour)

In 30 minutes, a man can expect to burn 140 calories. A man who walks 4.5 miles per hour will burn approximately 230 calories. The online health resource Healthline.com notes that a 125-pound person may burn roughly 150 calories walking for 30 minutes at 4.5 miles per hour.

Hiking

A man will burn roughly 185 calories in 30 minutes of moderate-intensity hiking. Women won’t burn as many calories, but both moderate and vigorous hiking are great ways to burn calories regardless of a person’s gender.

IT’S TIME TO

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Light gardening/yard work

A man will burn approximately 165 calories in 30 minutes performing light gardening/yard work, while he will burn roughly 220 calories performing more physically taxing yard work like chopping wood. A 125-pound person will burn roughly 135 calories after 30 minutes of light gardening.

EAT LOCAL

SHOP LOCAL

Cycling

Men can burn roughly 145 calories cycling at 10 miles per hour or less for 30 minutes. That figure jumps to 295 calories when men ride at 10 miles per hour or faster. Healthline notes that a 125-pound person can burn roughly 210 calories in 30 minutes when riding between 12 and 13.9 miles per hour.

STAY SAFE

Playing with children

Play sessions with the kids can help both moms and dads burn calories.

Healthline notes that a 155-pound person may burn 149 calories in 30 minutes of playing with kids at moderate intensity, while a 125-pound person will burn roughly 120 calories in the same time.

No two individuals are the same, so it can be hard for men and women to pinpoint just how many calories they burn performing popular physical activities. But there’s no denying that many of the activities adults engage in every day afford them ample opportunities to burn calories. (MC) 

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2 0 · S U N D AYS I G N A L

D E C E M B E R 13, 2020

PETS

Create a pet-friendly home this holiday season

T

he or she is comfortable with, offer blankets or his or her favorite bed and place a few treats or chews inside.”

his year, holiday gatherings may look different than celebrations in years past.

With traditions and large gatherings not likely this year, pet parents can take some comfort in knowing they can still celebrate with their pets.

Before the festivities begin, however, it’s important for pet parents to ensure their homes are as pet-friendly as possible. Consider these tips from PetSmart’s resident veterinarian Jennifer Freeman, DVM, and training expert Jodie Havens, CPDT-KSA, to keep pets happy and healthy this holiday season.

Teach good table manners

Table manners aren’t just for humans. Help prevent begging at the table by refraining from giving your pup food or attention. When you sit down for a meal, place your pet in a crate or pen, or encourage him or her to go to a special place like his or her bed or a comfortable chair.

“Divert your pup’s attention from tempting treats on the holiday table by providing an activity, such as a long-lasting chew or a puzzle toy,” Havens said.

If you don’t crate your pet during your holiday meal, avoid sharing human food under the table.

“Table scraps such as gravy and stuffing may

Exercise caution when decorating

PHOTO COURTESY GETTY IMAGES

look harmless, but even small amounts can lead to serious health issues,” Freeman said.

Instead, offer pet-friendly treats that look and taste like the holidays. Simply Nourish Dog Treats come in turkey and cranberry flavors that are alternatives to the real things. However, keep your pet away from scallions or chives, onions, garlic, grapes or raisins, cooked bones and anything high in fat.

Create a Zen space

The holidays can be hectic, and pets are prone to picking up on stress in the household. Freeman recommends providing pets with a safe getaway.

“To set up your pet’s retreat, use a crate or pen

While families may be brightening up their homes this holiday season, it’s important to ensure decor such as candles and seasonal plants are placed out of your pet’s reach. Flickering candles can be intriguing and seasonal plants like holly and poinsettia are poisonous to dogs and cats.

“Try providing a tall cat tree or scratcher near the holiday tree to redirect your kitty to an appropriate climbing apparatus,” Havens said. “The Merry & Bright Holiday House Cat Scratcher can help satisfy your cat’s instincts to scratch in fun, holiday fashion.”

Extra decor sometimes means more electrical cords, which can be tempting “chew toys” for your pet. Freeman recommends pet parents take special care to ensure electrical cords for festive lighting are not accessible by taping them down or covering them to help prevent injuries. Also remember to keep glass ornaments, tinsel, pinecones and light stands out of reach of your furry friend.

For more pet-friendly tips for the holiday season, visit petsmart.com. (Family Features) 

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D E C E M B E R 13, 2020

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 2 1

K I D S & FA M I LY

Donna’s Day: Creative Family Fun

It’s Peppermint Bark season, the taste of holidays

By Donna Erickson Signal Contributing Writer

1/2 cup crushed candy canes

T

he holiday season tastes like peppermint, and most of us can’t get enough. Peppermint mocha brightens the morning, peppermint ice cream makes us dreamy at night, and cute red-and-white-striped candy canes evoke festive childhood memories during the hours in between.

While on the topic of peppermint whatevers, I can’t leave out yummy — and trendy — peppermint bark. Who can resist the sweet layers of dark and white chocolate topped with crunchy peppermint bits? The bright holiday tins filled with the confection at highend kitchenware stores are tempting to buy, but they’re also pricey.

This year, make your own batch or two of peppermint bark with this easy, economical version using ingredients from the baking section and candy aisle of the grocery store. Older kids can melt candy coating (almond bark) in the microwave, while preschoolers pound candy canes into small bits with a toy hammer to sprinkle on top. Working together with you, the entire prep takes less than half an hour. The kids can scoot off to another activity while the bark cools and hardens.

1. Line a baking sheet with foil sprayed with nonstick cooking spray.

2. In a microwave-safe bowl, heat chocolate coating, uncovered, for 90 seconds on high power, and stir. Continue to microwave and stir at 30-second intervals until almost melted. (Be sure to use a dry bowl and utensils.)

Add 1 teaspoon peppermint extract, and stir until smooth.

3. Pour onto the foil-lined baking sheet. Spread evenly into a thin layer, approximately 10 by 14 inches.

EASY HOLIDAY PEPPERMINT BARK

1 pound good-quality chocolate confectionary coating, broken into pieces.

(Look for it in the grocery baking section, sometimes labeled “almond bark” or “candy coating”) 1 1/2 teaspoons pure peppermint extract 12 ounces good-quality white vanilla-flavored confectionery coating, broken into pieces

4. In another microwave-safe bowl, heat white coating as in step 2.

Add 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract (optional), and stir until smooth.

Spoon evenly over chocolate layer,

which should be setting up, but not hard, as you want the white layer to bond with the base layer.

5. Immediately sprinkle peppermint pieces over all and lightly press them into the white layer with a spatula or a spoon. Don’t wait on this step, or the top layer will harden and the candies won’t stick.

6. Let stand for an hour or refrigerate until hardened. Break into pieces.

Donna Erickson’s award-winning series “Donna’s Day” is airing on public television nationwide. To find more of her creative family recipes and activities, visit www.donnasday.com and link to the Donna’s Day Facebook fan page. Her latest book is “Donna Erickson’s Fabulous Funstuff for Families.”  © 2020 Donna Erickson Distributed by King Features Synd.

22 · S U N D AYS I G N A L

SOLUTIONS

PUZZLES

D E C E M B E R 13, 2020

CROSSWORD TIME

D E C E M B E R 13, 2020

Opinion

S U N D AY S I G N A L · 2 3

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

Chaos in Cities Leads to Socialism I hope you are all awake out there. I don’t want you to wake up and say, “What the hell happened?” If you have been paying attention to media reports, especially TV reports, you will notice there is great chaos in major cities around our nation as you are reading this. They have established “People’s police” in place of the city police. There is major defunding of law enforcement in some large cities that can and will lead to insurrection and more chaos.

Just imagine that, when you call your local police to report an emergency, you get a reply something like this, “I’m sorry but you have reached the police station that has been severely defunded. We are short of officers to handle your emergency. Please call your local ‘Peoples Police’ connection and see if they can or will help you.”

Remember that old saying, “Be careful of what you ask for, you may just get it.” This is the beginning of socialism/Marxism/communism, and believe me it won’t get any better, only worse. Unless you get up from your couch and do something about it. It’s not that you voted in the new Democratic Party, but the people who come with it. The swamp creatures are shouting for joy. Now they can get back to the same old politics as usual. Back to the Paris Peace Accords and the old corruption Donald Trump tried to squash. Or maybe that’s what you want. Taxes going out of sight until you are scratching for money to feed your family and trying to pay your mortgage, gas, food, etc.

There are politicians who are advocating the overthrow of our government such as ANTIFA and their constituents, all Marxists.

Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and The Crew. It’s not so much that I and my family will feel the crunch and destruction of our nation, but our grandkids and great-grandkids. These are the ones who will riot in the streets for more food, gas and freedom. They will be out of jobs and out of money. They will be out of constitutional rights. The only ones who will be the survivors are the ones who started this nightmare, the politicians who have by now stockpiled all of your money in secretive and offshore accounts. They will have theirs and you can “eat cake.”

Take California for instance (please). We have a maniacal dictator running the show in Sacramento. Gavin Newsom’s recent transgression of being caught without a mask at a very expensive dinner was what he referred to as an error in judgment. Not so, he only apologized because he got caught. The law and social standards placed on the rest of us are overlooked by the dictator and his ilk. Another example was when Nancy Pelosi got caught going into a hair salon without a mask. Her response: “The salon owner set me up.” Really?

Wake up and take a reality check. It’s happening right in front of you and you are not seeing it. You have eyes but you do not see. You have ears but you are not listening. We can still do it and one way is the RECALL of those politicians who are allowing the ANTIFA type scum coming into your towns and taking it over and destroying it. Is this what you are paying taxes for? If you don’t care then just sit back and wallow in your own self-pity.

Just one taxpayer's opinion.

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

Love That Matters Most

By David Hegg

I

t doesn’t happen often but recently I ran into someone who reads this column regularly. After thanking her for some encouraging comments, I asked, “What would like to read about in my column?”

She replied, “Tell us what makes life good for you.” So here it is. But I’m going even further and suggesting these three loves as the essential components of any healthy, satisfying and significant life.

1. Love God. Of course, you knew I would start there, for those who understand and are humbled by the fact that they are loved and created for a purpose by Almighty God will have the best chance to live selflessly and sacrificially. To love God is to realize that life is about much more than self. It is a privilege to be lived out in partnership with the One who has all time and history in his hands and is working all things according to the counsel of his own will. To love God is to submit to that will and find freedom from the brokenness of this world through his Son, whose birth the world is celebrating.

Ironically, love for God is actually the response of the one who comes to understand just how much God loves all he has created. It was this love that moved him to send Jesus, and through him to offer forgiveness to all who would humble themselves, turn from their own sinful ways, and entrust their very lives to him.

To understand God’s love and love him in return is to lay a unique foundation for the two other essential loves necessary for a purposeful, satisfying life.

2. Love Family. I have been privileged to travel abroad many times, eat at some of the world’s finest restaurants, marvel at many of our greatest architectural and historical sites, and sit with some of the smartest people around. But all these pale in comparison to the joy I will feel when my children bring their spouses to our home to celebrate Christmas. Being together with those I love grants me a sense of gladness and fulfillment nothing else on Earth can match. My greatest accomplishment has al-

ways been my family, and the way we truly love one another.

Sometimes love for family is eclipsed by our desire for success, or wealth, or personal convenience. In these cases, our lives erode in significant, though imperceptible ways.

Someone has said “the best things in life are not things.”

If this is true, it only magnifies the importance of relationships. Sadly, too many end up regretting the words and ways they have chosen to defend their pride rather than pursue peace through patience and sacrificial love. Don’t be one of those people. Use what time and energy you have to strengthen and enjoy those closest to you.

3. Love Neighbors. Jesus told a famous story to answer the question, “Who is my neighbor?” His answer was simple. Everyone who can be benefited by your love and care is your neighbor. To love our neighbors is simply to see them, and treat them as those deserving of our best, regardless of their race or social standing.

Over the past months this “love” has been severely tested in our nation. Neighbors have hurt one another, defamed one another, and even inflicted harm on one another. To carelessly chalk it all up to racial tension is both simplistic and dangerous. Right and wrong don’t come in colors.

The command to love one another is given to everyone, and it is to be exercised toward everyone. The problem isn’t race, it’s hatred, and those who allow themselves to become instruments of hate ultimately are ripping apart any chance they have for a meaningful, satisfying life.

So, to all my readers, thanks for being good neighbors. Our community is a great place to live, work and raise children. Let’s keep it that way by making love our aim and refusing to allow legitimate differences to erode meaningful conversation and dialogue into hate-filled diatribes and worse.

May the joys of Christmas be yours in fullest measure. Merry Christmas!

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

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