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Healthy Living Guide Page 15

SEPTEMBER 26, 2021

Getting Fit this Fall Page 5 Your News, Entertainment & Lifestyle Source

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A BIG BAD VOODOO DADDY HOMECOMING

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4 · S U N D AYS I G N A L

TABLE OF CONTENTS

RETHINKING RESILIENCE TO WILDFIRE Learn how garden design and maintenance can help protect homes in high-risk fire areas.

S E P T E M B E R 26, 2021

NEWS FEATURES

5

5 The unpredictable future of strength, fitness 6 Big Bad bandmate discusses coming home, giving back 8 Five simple, natural ways to boost your immunity

THINGS TO DO

7

7 Enjoying the beauty of fall in California

FROM THE MAYOR

9

9 Grand theft auto prevention

ENTERTAINMENT 10 10 ‘The Premise’ anthology is ‘ambitious,’ ‘cutting edge’

FOOD 11 1 1 Increase wholesome flavor with powerful pairings Lemon-Garlic Tenderloin with warm sorghum salad adsource@exhibitorads.com GARDENING 14 p. 888.737.2812 f. 203.438.1206 14 Saving your own vegetable seeds for next year’s crop

eatres • Santa Clarita Signal

date: Sunday-Thursday, September 26-30, 2021 HEALTHY LIVING delivery date: Tuesday, September 21, 2021 at 10:04:34 AM CASCS_LEM0926SENIOR LIVING Sign up for FREE classes and download our FREE guide at

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S E P T E M B E R 26, 2021

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 5

N E W S F E AT U R E

The unpredictable future of strength & fitness trends

By Kev Kurdoghlian Signal Staff Writer

F

or the past 18 months, conversations about health have been dominated by the COVID-19 pandemic.

And the pandemic has had a significant impact on health, including how people think about staying healthy through fitness.

Ben De La Torre, owner of Face Your Fears Athletics, remembers when he couldn’t find any available fitness equipment for sale during the pandemic.

“Home fitness saw a big surge,” he said. “There was a lot of people exiting the commercial space and just coming into building their own home gym.”

The owner of the Valencia fitness studio told The Sunday Signal that home gyms gave people the freedom to install the equipment they wanted and do the exercises they wanted to do.

Many, including a growing number of people who are now working from home, he said, have turned to YouTube to guide their home workouts.

“YouTube has been a real valuable resource for a lot of people doing home fitness,” he said, noting that his studio has posted all of the videos it created during the pandemic to YouTube.

Pandemic-related restrictions forced De La Torre to close his doors for nearly six months. In response, he developed a video library to send workout routines to his clients. That new offering, he said, supports a potentially broader move in his industry toward online training.

“Anytime they go on vacation, (I’ll say) … ‘Hey, take a set of dumbbells with you or find the hotel gym,’ or something like that. You can pull these up on YouTube and just run through one of them. You don’t have to think about it, it’s already kind of set and done,” he said of conversations with his clients who aren’t able to attend in-person workouts.

Outdoor workouts were also a part of changing fitness landscape as restrictions loosened to allow people to return to in-person workouts.

“It’s been a lot of just adapting to the situation,” he said.

Those recent adaptations have been prefaced by years of transformation. De La Torre said the fitness world has trended toward to smaller studios instead “big box gyms.”

“I think people are just looking for a little more personable approach and for some expertise too,” he said, noting a smaller environment allows for a training that tailored to each person.

Functional fitness also appears to be a winner over the last decade of fitness, or working out for everyday life, according to De La Torre.

“Not everybody wants to be a bodybuilder. They just want to be able to move better and use their body properly,” he said. “And kind of train to be able to do a bunch of stuff.”

Sports Performance Director Russell Gage, right, instructs Noelle Blumel as she preforms standing straight chop exercises at Henry Mayo Fitness and Health last July. While fitness trends can change frequently, they’re often cyclical and heavily influenced by accessibility, according to the experts. PHOTO BY DAN WATSON / THE SIGNAL

Hiking and recreational sports are a couple of examples of the type of stuff where functional fitness, or strength training, would help.

“Heck, I’ve had people that come in and they’re just like, ‘I want to be able to keep up with my kids now,’” he said.

Pilates, yoga and hot yoga are also rising in fitness.

“There’s a lot of stuff in fitness that is very cyclical,” said De La Torre.

Russell Dean Gage, fitness director at Henry Mayo Fitness and Health, agreed.

“The fancy bells and whistles come and go. There was the whole aerobic phase and step aerobics,” he said. “And then there’s the time where everyone’s like, ‘Kettlebells are the future.’”

That pattern makes the future unpredictable, which, he said, makes things interesting.

“There’s a good majority of fitness professionals, and even just fitness enthusiasts, that believe that the fitness industry is going to be moving towards at-home technology,” Gage said, noting technology like wearable tech, high-tech mirrors and stationary bikes with workouts directly streamed to an attached screen.

Gage said this trend has only been exacerbated by the pandemic, which he said has led many fitness professionals also thinking the industry may head in the opposite direction.

“People are lacking and craving human contact, human Interaction (and) real relationships and it is going to swing the fitness industry even more so towards in person, group community interaction,” he said of an alternative trend.

Mental health has become a larger consideration in physical health, too.

“There’s a lot of mental health issues that will inhibit an individual to be able to just get up and do stuff,” he said. “On the other side, I know that there’s those who when you’re not doing the physical health...that it begins to affect your mental state.”

Gage has also noticed a trend toward functional fitness and strength training. He pointed to the salaries of strength coaches in collegiate sports.

“In early 2000s, strength and conditioning coaches, some of them had to sleep in their cars, or just live at the weight room they worked at,” he said.

Today, the strength coach for the football team at one major university, he said, makes a little over $800,000 a year.

“There’s been this huge understanding of, ‘Hey, our athletes need to be bigger, stronger, faster but also if they’re not playing, the school loses money,’” he said. “So, we’re going to pay our strength coaches, what they deserve to keep our athletes healthy.”

That recognition comes, in part, from advancements in sports science, said Gage. And moving forward, that focus on strength and conditioning is likely to increase.

“We need to look at the demands of the sport and we need to look at what that entails,” he said. “So, you look at the demand of the sport and say what is it that they need and let’s prepare them for that.”

Face Your Fears Athletics is located at 28061 Smyth Dr, Valencia, CA 91355. They can be reached at (661) 282-7750 or fyfathletics.com. Henry Mayo Fitness and Health is located at 24525 Town Center Drive Valencia, CA 91355. They can be reached at (661) 200-2348 or henrymayofitness.org. e

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S E P T E M B E R 26, 2021

N E W S F E AT U R E

Big Bad bandmate discusses coming home, giving back

By Kev Kurdoghlian Signal Staff Writer

W

hen Glen Marhevka took the stage at The Canyon in Santa Clarita on the evening of Friday, Sept. 17, he had a lot to celebrate.

Marhevka, the trumpeter for Big Bad Voodoo Daddy, a contemporary swing revival band formed in Ventura, experienced something of a homecoming Friday night performing with his band of 28 years.

“The cool thing about Friday, too, is, it’s actually my birthday,” Marhevka, a graduate of Hart High School, told The Signal a few days before the Friday night concert. “I’m excited to be playing in my hometown on my actual birthday, which is cool. And I have a lot of family and friends there.”

Friends, family and guests alike were in for a treat from Big Bad Voodoo Daddy Friday night.

Between two trumpets, a trombone, two saxophones, piano, bass, drums and a signer, who also plays guitar, Big Bad Voodoo Daddy is “a pretty large band” making performing “super fun,” Marhevka said.

“The band is super excited … just to be playing music and playing in front of people,” he said, noting the COVID-19 pandemic provided a forced break for the band. “The band’s just full of tons of energy right now from all that time off.”

Big Bad Voodoo Daddy has played over 3,000 shows in its nearly three decades of preforming together.

Marhevka could think of a few career highlights off the top of his head in conversation with The Signal.

He recalled recording a voiceover for an episode of the animated show “Scooby Doo” 20 years ago. Each member of the band was animated for the episode, he said.

“It was like Big Bad Voodoo Daddy, Gary Coleman, David Cross, I think, and Mark Hamill from ‘Star Wars,’ like Luke Skywalker,” he said. “We were all on the same episode together, it was like crazy.”

Marhevka said that he’s played all over the world.

“Europe and Japan and Australia,” he said, naming a few of the band’s concert destinations abroad. “It’s

Trumpeter Glen “The Kid” Marhevka of Big Bad Voodoo Daddy points to the crowd while the Hart High grad performs on stage with his world-renowned band at The Canyon Santa Claritia. PHOTO BY BOBBY BLOCK / THE SIGNAL

just cool. We’ve played in every state in the United States, which is pretty mind blowing to think that we played concerts in all the states.”

In 1999, Marhevka and Big Bad Voodoo Daddy played in their home state during the halftime show of Super Bowl XXXIII, an experience “which was kind of a crazy thing to think about,” he said.

The band has also been a guest artist with the Los Angeles Philharmonic Orchestra and Hollywood Bowl Orchestra and played at the Playboy Jazz Festival.

Big Bad Voodoo Daddy has also played its own concerts at the Hollywood Bowl several times and recorded with greats like Stevie Wonder and Gloria Estefan.

“I don’t think about it on a daily basis, but like when I start like talking to somebody about it, I’m like ‘wow, that sounds pretty cool,” he said of his career.

Santa Clarita provided the support that helped Marhevka become the accomplished musician he is today.

He played in the school band at Placerita Junior High and Hart High School while growing up in Santa Clarita.

“We had a really great music program at Hart High when I was there.

It was fantastic,” he remembered. “It’s kind of made me who I am really, because it was such a great program.”

Marhevka studied under band director Larry Thornton and studied trumpet playing with George Stone, who became the high school director after he left.

His younger years also included a few cool experiences.

“When I was a young student, one of my teachers took me to “The Tonight Show” because he knew like all the guys in the band and, you know, they had a big band,” he said.

Marhevka met Doc Severinsen, a jazz trumpeter with the band of “The Tonight Show” with Johnny Carson.

He walked on the set as the show’s band was getting ready for rehearsal.

“He basically stopped everything he was doing and he just hung out with me, because he knew I was a young aspiring trumpet player, and he knew my teacher so he knew that I was probably a pretty serious player,” he said. “And he just stopped everything (and) he just sat there and talked with me about trumpet.”

The experience of meeting “a super

famous guy who I idolize” was inspiring for the young Marhevka.

“And I thought, you know if I ever get to any sort of status or anybody is interested in what I’m doing, I’m going to be that cool,” he said.

Marhevka did grow up to be that cool.

For decades now, Marhevka has been giving back to younger musicians in the same way that his teachers did for him when he was growing up in Santa Clarita.

“My teachers out there actually George Stone and Larry Thornton kind of inspired me to teach,” her said, also noting former College of the Canyon jazz legend Stewart “Dirk” Fischer. “I always liked to do that and I like to give back and help younger musicians and I watched my teachers do that with the younger kids.”

Marhevka, who is now also a Yamaha clinician and artist, started teaching high school students during his college years and today teaches out of his home studio in Glendale, California.

“I have a bunch of trumpet students that I teach and they’re actually all over,” he said, noting he had started online instruction a few years before the pandemic. “I’ve been kind of mentoring some students in Maui just because they don’t have any trumpet teachers on that island.”

The Big Bad Voodoo Daddy horn section has been enlisted in the education of younger musicians as well, said Marhevka, who is also giving back by mentoring teachers at Glendale High School and part-time music faculty at Glendale Community College.

When asked if he had any wishes for his birthday this year, this is what he said: “For me, just being home, and my family is all going to be at the concert and a bunch of my friends and I’m playing on stage with my band in my hometown. So, you know, it’s all been covered. I don’t really need to wish for anything else.” 

S E P T E M B E R 26, 2021

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 7

THINGSTODO

Enjoying the beauty of fall in California

By Michele E. Buttelman Signal Staff Writer

W

hen one thinks of traveling to see the autumn leaves, places like New England or maybe Colorado come to mind.

However, the glorious splash of fall color from trees shedding their summer green can be found in many parts of the Golden State.

From Oak Glen, just outside Los Angeles, to the Napa Valley wine country, the reds, yellows and oranges of autumn are just a car trip away.

Fall foliage in Mammoth, June lakes

On the eastern side of the Sierra mountains you’ll find showy autumn finery from mid-September until the last leaf falls from quaking aspens and willows.

Drive any road heading west off U.S. 395 near June Lake and Mammoth Lakes to find groves of autumnal color. The best fall foliage drive is the June Lake Loop (Highway 158).

Glowing leaves in a riot of color at peak season can be found as you drive past Silver Lake and past 10,909-foot Carson Peak. Head toward Gull Lake and the village at June Lake.

When you reach June Lake take a break from the road and walk the 4-mile round-trip Parker Lake Trail to view the emerald-blue lake framed by quaking aspens and craggy peaks.

Mammoth Lakes offers a treasure trove of fall beauty. Near downtown, walk or drive past Sherwin Creek Campground where aspen groves will delight with a heady mix of leaves in reds, oranges, yellows and lime greens. Head south of town to drive aspen-lined McGee Creek Road or Rock Creek Road. In this high country at or near 10,000 feet, fall colors often peak in late September, but in the lower canyons, colors can linger until mid-October.

Fall color in Oak Glen

Oak Glen is known for its apples, but with an elevation that’s nearly a mile high, this town, 80

Enjoy wine tasting and the scenery at Amador Cellars in Plymouth, which is about an hour east of Sacramento. PHOTO COURTESY VISIT CALIFORNIA

miles east of Los Angeles, is home to extensive oak groves, in addition to apple farms, berry ranches and plenty of old-fashioned fun. An autumn trip to this quaint countryside will give visitors a chance to stop and view the brilliant oaks dotting the hillsides.

If you visit Oak Glen’s historic schoolhouse museum at just the right time you’ll find it surrounded by bright red maple trees. For more fall color take a hike at the Wildlands Conservancy’s Oak Glen Preserve. A 2.4-mile family-friendly loop leads from the preserve headquarters downhill through the apple orchards and into Oak Knoll Park.

There’s plenty of harvest-time fun to be found in Oak Glen. You can find a corn maze, horse-drawn wagon rides, hayrides and a bevy of other activities to entertain everyone in the family.

Lake Tahoe and Hope Valley

Willows and aspens light up both sides of this high-country lake when fall takes center stage as early as mid-September.

The hillsides and meadows around Lake Tahoe’s meadows and hillsides you’ll see willows are the first to turn, followed by aspens. Shades of gold, yellow, amber mixed with touches of ruby and scarlet can take your breath away when nature and timing work together.

Hike 1.5 miles north on the Tahoe Rim Trail from Ward Creek Boulevard to see a beautiful autumn vista on the lake’s northwest shore at Page Meadows. You’ll also see Twin Peaks, Grouse Rock and Ward Peak soar above the trees.

In South Lake Tahoe, drive the Fallen Leaf Lake Road to Fredrick’s Meadow, a short distance from Fallen Leaf Lake Campground, where the view of Mount Tallac is perfectly framed by a foreground of quaking aspens. For more leafy color, continue along the road to the Glen Alpine trailhead and walk a colorful mile along the cobbled trail to Glen Alpine Springs.

South of Lake Tahoe, Hope Valley’s dense aspen groves offer an intense display of yellows and oranges. Drive south through Meyers on Highway 89 to its junction with Highway 88, where you can turn left or right.

Napa Valley

Wine country might not be your first go-to thought of autumn splendor, but starting in midto late-October, the grape harvest crush winds down and a pageant of vineyard leaf color begins.

Fall color in the Napa Valley isn’t limited to trees as grape leaves transform into colorful fall foliage in vivid coppers and ruby reds.

For a stunning fall trip drive the Silverado Trail from Napa to Calistoga. Take your pick from dozens of wineries, including Frog’s Leap, Rombauer Vineyards, and Reynolds Family Winery, all worth a stop for fall scenery and wine tasting.

Fall in state parks Cuyamaca Rancho State Park (San Diego County) is northeast of San Diego, located on Highway See FALL, page 28

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S E P T E M B E R 26, 2021

N E W S F E AT U R E

Five simple, natural ways to boost your immunity

Y

our body’s immune system protects against illness and infection, fighting off threats before you even know there’s a problem. Even though your immune system usually does its job automatically, you can give it a boost with habits that promote wellness and support immunity.

Eat healthy fruits and vegetables

Although you may not be aware they contain flavonoids, these phytochemicals found in some fruits and veggies are a vital part of maintaining health. Flavonoids are found in colorful fruits and vegetables like cranberries and elderberries. When it comes to power foods, elderberries’ exceptional flavanol levels make them an immune system powerhouse. Especially important during cold and flu season, elderberries can also be enjoyed in a cup of warm tea for instant comfort.

Reduce stress with outdoor activity

Keeping physically fit provides numerous health benefits such as reducing stress. The sun’s UV rays help your body produce vitamin D, which is important for your bones, blood cells and immune system, as well as helping absorb and use certain nutrients. Yoga and massage can also be used to help stimulate the immune system and promote well-being.

Keep a regular sleep schedule

Sleep gives you an opportunity to recharge. This is when cellular regeneration and other healing is most efficient. Keeping a regular routine helps signal to your system that it’s time to rest so you can fall asleep easier and reap the whole-body benefits of a healthy sleep cycle.

Wash hands frequently

Especially during the school year, when germs are rampant and easily carried from school to

PHOTOS COURTESY GETTY IMAGES

home, you can give your immune system a hand, literally, by frequently scrubbing away germs before they have the chance to attack.

Rely on natural remedies

Modern, stressful lifestyles and exposure to environmental pollutants can put immune systems under pressure. However, some of your existing soothing rituals can actually support better health, too. One example is relaxing with a hot cup of tea.

The natural and organic ingredients found in Buddha Teas provide numerous health benefits.

Options like Mushroom Wellness, Divine Immunity, Elderberry Tea and Reishi Mushroom blends all contain immunity-boosting ingredients.

While they’re not an obvious ingredient, mushrooms have been incorporated into healing practices for thousands of years for their immune-boosting, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant-rich properties.

There are several powerful medicinal mushrooms but one stand-out is the reishi mushroom, known as the “mushroom of immortality” and “divine plant of longevity.” This anti-inflammatory powerhouse is known to promote healthy cell growth and healthy blood pressure, along with improving immune function.

Learn more about boosting your immunity naturally at buddhateas.com. (Family Features) 

A golden way to get better sleep While golden milk has become a trendy beverage of choice, this comforting, herb-filled blend is actually ancient. For thousands of years, golden milk has been an Ayurvedic ritual, with Indian families enjoying a warm nightly cupful before bed.

In Ayurvedic medicine, turmeric, the main component in golden milk, is thought to impart the energy of the sun to the body, hence its radiant, golden color. Turmeric’s documented healing properties impart substance to this traditional “elixir,” and have given golden milk a reputation as a healing cup of comfort.

Golden milk also has the potential to lessen your chance of becoming ill in the first place.

It’s an anti-inflammatory that supports healthy digestion and promotes calm.

This turmeric-dominant blend includes ginger root and black pepper to aid digestion; ashwagandha to tonify, energize and calm; and cardamom, nutmeg and vanilla bean, all meant to encourage rejuvenation and peace. Consider an option like Buddha Teas’ CBD Organic Golden Milk, which includes a THC-free CBD isolate for added wellness benefits.

Prepared by mixing with a warm cup of your favorite milk, the smooth, slightly sweet, pungent brew offers a soothing treat just before bed. Many people also enjoy golden milk prepared cold. (Family Features) 

S E P T E M B E R 26, 2021

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 9

F R O M T H E M AY O R

Grand theft auto prevention tips for fall

By Bill Miranda Santa Clarita City Mayor

L

ast spring, the City of Santa Clarita and the Santa Clarita’s Valley Sheriff ’s Station launched a brand-new campaign, “Guard That Auto,” which was aimed at preventing the number of auto-related thefts throughout the City. The campaign encourages residents to “keep your keys out of the hands of thieves” through a bold series of advertisements, posters, social media and creative videos.

I have no doubt that many of you have seen this campaign and have done your part to “Guard That Auto.” Unfortunately, the number of GTAs this year has gone up over the same period as last year, about 2.2%. This increase can be attributed to the blanket policies put in place by current District Attorney George Gascon.

Under these policies, a car thief can steal a vehicle, be arrested by one of our hard-working deputies, spend only about four hours in jail and is then released on citation — and unfortunately, is free to

commit other crimes.

Shockingly, in a few cases, suspects have been released from jail only to be caught stealing another vehicle within hours. The result is emboldened criminals who repeatedly break the law without proper prosecution, intervention or rehabilitation.

Even with the challenges of the DA’s policies, there are still things you can do to protect your vehicle and valuables. Remember these important tips to “Guard That Auto:” • Keep your keys inside your home and out of your car. Leaving the keys in your car is an invitation for crooks to steal your car. Keep your keys with you and know where they are at all times.

• Be mindful of your surroundings, paying special attention to where you park your car. Parking in your garage, driveway, a well-traveled parking spot, under a street light or other well-lit areas are great ways to keep your car safe.

• Using a theft protection device, like the Club, is a simple yet effective method that decreases the chance of car theft.

• Remember to clean out your car and take your

valuables with you; thieves can’t steal what isn’t there.

Our public safety officials have done an admirable job protecting our residents and businesses day after day, and I urge all of you to continue doing your part to help them out. If your car has ever been stolen or broken into, you know how violated, helpless and angry that can make you feel–not to mention the financial burden that can incur due to insurance deductibles and necessary repairs.

Overall, an experience like that can be extremely unpleasant, but by following these simple tips, we can all do our best to minimize the chances of this happening.

To learn more about how you can “Guard That Auto,” please visit santa-clarita.com/ GTA or follow the Santa Clarita Sheriff’s Station and the City of Santa Clarita’s social media accounts.

Mayor Bill Miranda is a member of the Santa Clarita City Council and can be reached at bmiranda@ santa-clarita.com. The views expressed in his column are those of the City and do not necessarily reflect those of The Signal. 

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S E P T E M B E R 26, 2021

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

‘The Premise’ anthology is ‘ambitious’ and ‘cutting edge’

By Richard Roeper Signal Contributing Writer

‘The Premise’

 (out of four)

A five-episode anthology series on Hulu.

T

he new FX on Hulu anthology series “The Premise” is problematic, but has promise, and try saying that three times fast — but if you CAN say it three times fast, make sure you capture the moment on your smartphone, because if you don’t post it, did it ever really happen?

That’s the kind of meta-techno philosophy explored in this ambitiously cutting-edge if only occasionally successful series from B.J. Novak (“The Office,” “The Mindy Project”).

The stand-alone episodes mine such territory as internet trolling, the double-edged sword of wokeness, the power of the gun lobby, the long-term consequences of bullying, our celebrity-obsessed culture and millennials who seem to spend the majority of their time “living their best lives” online while their actual lives are quickly passing them by. As the tagline for “The Premise” tells us, this is “An Anthology of Now.”

PHOTOS COURTESY IMDB

Shew. That’s a bit pretentious and there’s a lot to unpack, and there are wide fluctuations in the quality and effectiveness of these message-heavy stories in the five episodes provided to critics. While some chapters are told in broad, mostly comedic strokes that result in hit-and-miss storytelling, the most effective episodes play out in more dramatic and realistic fashion.

The least effective entry, “The Ballad of Jesse Wheeler,” comes across like an out-of-touch update of “Win a

Top Ten Movies 1. Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings (PG-13) Simu Liu, Awkwafina 2. Free Guy (PG-13) Ryan Reynolds, Jodie Comer 3. Malignant (R) Annabelle Wallis, Maddie Hasson 4. Candyman (R) Yahya Abdul-Mateen II, Teyonah Parris 5. Jungle Cruise (PG-13) Dwayne Johnson, Emily Blunt 6. PAW Patrol: The Movie (G) animated 7. Don’t Breathe 2 (R) Stephen Lang, Brendan Sexton III 8. The Card Counter (R) Oscar Isaac, Tiffany Haddish 9. Show Me the Father (PG) Jim Daly, Jonathan Evans 10. Respect (PG-13) Jennifer Hudson, Forest Whitaker — Source Box Office Mojo

Date With Tad Hamilton!” A miscast Lucas Hedges is the title character, a Bieber-esque pop star who returns to his high school to announce a $1 million donation for a new library — and oh yeah, this year’s valedictorian will win an all-expenses paid trip to Hollywood to see Jesse in concert, to tour his home, and as a bonus, he’ll sleep with you.

I’m not kidding.

Kaitlyn Dever plays an indifferent student who has been absent from class for most of three years, but all of a sudden, she makes a serious run for the crown, and hey, that’s not really how someone can become valedictorian. Dever is terrific as she delivers some articulate (if overwritten) monologues about how Celebrity Worship is the new religion, but the entire premise is distasteful and dumb, and the final punchline is cheap.

Another uneven effort is the unfortunately titled “Butt Plug,” in which downtrodden fortysomething financial adviser Eli Spector (Eric Lange) comes hat-in-hand to the world-famous billionaire Daniel Jung (Daniel Dae Kim), whom he mercilessly bullied when they were kids. The billionaire comes up with an unusual proposition that will provide Eli with a chance at redemption and Daniel the opportunity to demonstrate forgiveness. There’s a mesmerizing sequence in which Eli makes the pitch of a lifetime to Daniel’s board of directors — but the payoff is underwhelming and disappointingly predictable.

The episode titled “Social Justice Sex Tape” is dark and weird and flat-out funny, with Ben Platt killing it in a self-deprecating performance as a Super Woke Bro named Ethan who replays a sex video he filmed a while back — and realizes that in the background, you can see evidence exonerating a Black man accused of assaulting a white police officer. With the defendant facing a long prison sentence and conviction likely, Ethan has to share the tape, which does not paint him in a flattering light, in order to serve the cause of justice. A scene in which Ethan explodes on the witness stand and reveals himself to be a superficial, resentful white guy who talks the talk but has never really walked the walk is completely unreal-

istic — but fantastically entertaining.

In “The Commenter,” Lola Kirke delivers pitch-perfect work as Allegra, a wellness instructor, life coach and Instagram influencer who has an adoring girlfriend named Beth (Soko), a circle of equally hip, liberal, trending friends and thousands of followers who fill her timeline with worshipful comments — with the exception of a persistent, anonymous commenter who trolls Allegra night and day with nasty, harsh, personal remarks. (Beth tells Allegra to get over it, that the commenter is probably some hideous, overweight loser living in mom’s basement — but then quickly apologizes for “fat-shaming” and “income-shaming” the anonymous antagonist.) In a nifty twist, Allegra doesn’t necessarily resent the commenter; in fact, she appreciates that at least one person out there is being honest with her and not showering her with empty platitudes. But now that Allegra has been given the opportunity to meet the commenter and surprise her face-to-face, what will she do?

The most powerful episode in the series is “Moment of Silence,” with Jon Bernthal giving one of the most effective performances of his career as Chase Milbrandt, a man whose 5-year-old daughter was killed in a school shooting. Chase applies for a job as a PR man for the National Gun Lobby (a thinly disguised version of the NRA), and he’s hired because who could be a more effective face and voice for the right to bear arms?

The question is, what’s really behind Chase’s mission to literally go inside the headquarters of the nation’s most powerful gun lobby? We think we might know the answer, but we might not be right — and when it comes time for Chase to lead the nation in a virtual, live-streaming moment of silence on the one-year anniversary of the shootings, the climax is stunning and powerful and earned. 

Copyright 2021 Chicago Sun-Times

S E P T E M B E R 26, 2021

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FOOD

Increase wholesome flavor with powerful pairings

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aking the most of family meals means dishing up favorites that call loved ones together while also providing wholesome, nutritional

flavor.

As part of the Powerful Pairings initiative – launched by the United Sorghum Checkoff Program, National Pork Board and USA Pulses – this Lemon-Garlic Tenderloin with Warm Sorghum Salad calls for pulses, which include lentils, chickpeas dry peas, and beans; sorghum, similar to rice or quinoa filled with nutrients, texture and taste; and pork, rich in flavor, versatile and sustainable with nutritious qualities.

Combined, these three ingredients can work together in sweet and savory dishes alike, and they shine with a multitude of herbs, spices and sauces from around the world. A powerhouse nutritional trio, they include foods from the protein, vegetable and grain groups outlined in MyPlate, a template for balance, variety and moderation.

Plus, the taste and versatility of these ingredients make it easier to achieve more family meals, which promotes cohesion, communication and relationships, helping loved ones celebrate simple joys together and be more prepared for uncertainty and difficult life moments.

Visit powerfulpairings.com to find more recipes that can become family favorites at your table.

(Family Features) 

What is sorghum?

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any people who are not in the agriculture industry have never heard of sorghum or are unsure as to what it is. However, sorghum holds an important role in the lives of millions of people around the world, including yours.

Sorghum is a non-GMO, gluten free, ancient grain that is most commonly used as feed for livestock but is also a popular food grain for people residing in Asia and Africa.

Because of it’s gluten free properties, sorghum is a welcome whole grain alternative for those who deal with gluten intolerance or celiac disease.

While not as popular as corn in the United States, this makes it an important crop among resource conscious farmers who recognize its ability to produce nutritious grain with less water and fertilizer. Thus making it an important part of many sustainable farming operations.

To learn more about sorghum nutritional information or recipes please visit simply sorghum.com. ­— Courtesy National Sorghum Produceres

Lemon-Garlic Tenderloin with Warm Sorghum Salad

Recipe courtesy of the United Sorghum Checkoff Program, National Pork Board and USA Pulses Prep time: 25 minutes Cook time: 70 minutes Servings: 6 (2 ounces pork, 3/4 cup sorghum salad) 2 cups vegetable broth 2 cups water 1 cup whole-grain sorghum 2 tablespoons olive oil 1 tablespoon minced garlic 1 tablespoon minced fresh parsley 1 1/2 teaspoons lemon zest 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon pepper 1 pork tenderloin (16 ounces), trimmed of fat 1 medium sweet potato, peeled and cut into 1/2-inch pieces 1 cup kidney beans, rinsed and drained 1/2 cup dried cranberries 1/2 cup pecan halves

For a video showing you how to make this recipe, visit www.SignalSCV.com.

Roast pork, uncovered, 10 minutes. Arrange sweet potatoes around pork and roast 15-20 minutes, or until pork reaches 145 F internal temperature and potatoes are tender. Remove pork from pan. Cover; let stand 10 minutes.

Stir roasted sweet potatoes, beans, cranberries and pecan halves into cooked sorghum and heat through.

Slice pork tenderloin and serve with warm sorghum salad.

Nutritional information per serving 436 calories; 15 g total fat (2 g saturated fat); 55 mg cholesterol; 369 mg sodium; 55 g total carbohydrates (8 g dietary fiber, 16 g sugars); 25 g protein; 2% vitamin D; 6% calcium; 20% iron; 20% potassium; 377 mg phosphorus (30%). 

Preheat oven to 425 F. In medium saucepan, combine vegetable broth and water. Bring to boil.

Add sorghum. Reduce heat to simmer and cook, covered, 45-60 minutes, or until tender.

In medium bowl, combine olive oil, garlic, parsley, lemon zest, salt and pepper. Drizzle half oil mixture on pork; rub in with fingers. Place pork in shallow roasting pan. Add sweet potatoes to bowl with remaining oil mixture. Toss to coat and set aside.

PHOTO COURTESY NATIONAL SORGHUM PRODUCERS

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S E P T E M B E R 26, 2021

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

Blood Sweat & Tears at the Canyon Santa Clarita

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lood, Sweat & Tears is not the first band to ever use a horn section, but they are the first to fuse it with rock, jazz, and some blues thrown in for good measure.

Blood Sweat & Tears’ second album received 10 Grammy nominations and won three. The band played at Woodstock the same day as Jimi Hendrix among other great bands. Blood Sweat & Tears is the first rock band to

tour behind the former Iron Curtain, and the first rock band to play Las Vegas among major protest from fans who felt the band sold out.

Blood Sweat & Tears has had many configurations over its 50+ years of touring, but one thing for sure is that the music is timeless, and fans are

never disappointed.

Hit songs include “Spinning Wheel,” “You’ve Made Me So Very Happy,” “Hi-De-Ho,” “When I Die,” “God Bless The Child,” “Snow Queen,” “Lucretia Mac Evil,” “Go Down Gamblin,” “Maiden Voyage” and many more!

You can see this legendary band tonight at The Canyon Santa Clarita.

Tickets available at the door, or online through www.ticketmaster.com. 

The 2021 C-Class Sedan

Live the Moment. Drive the Future.

Build your deal during the Certified Pre-Owned Sales Event.

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S E P T E M B E R 26, 2021

GARDENING

Saving your own vegetable seeds for next year’s crop

By Jane Gates Signal Staff Writer

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ot only can you save your own vegetable seeds to grow the next year’s crop, but sometimes you can even end up with a plant that surpasses your expectations. Of course, most often you’ll get something similar to the original plant.

You can also end up with big disappointments. Using seeds from traditionally stable parent plants and taking care in how you produce your seeds will impact how much control you will have in the growth of the next generation seeds.

Start planning ahead of time

Decide what vegetables you want to grow as ‘parent’ plants for your seed collecting. Annual vegetables (plants that grow, flower, seed and die all within one year) are the best choice.

You can grow biennials (plants like carrots and cabbage), but you will have to wait for a second year before the plant will bloom to collect seeds.

Some perennials (plants that grow year after year, like artichokes and asparagus), will bloom in their first year but may take longer to produce enough fruits to make seed collecting worthwhile. Then, you will have to wait again for the plant you grow from your collected seeds to mature.

Choose your parent plants carefully

Collect seeds from vegetables that are not hybrids. If you grow your vegetables from open-pollinated — sometimes called heirloom varieties — your seeds are more likely to grow

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true from seed without unpleasant surprises. Some seeds from hybrid plants can be sterile. And, as I said before, rarely, you might accidentally grow a gem!

How you grow your parent plants matters

Plant your vegetables in isolated groups if you want to control pollination. Otherwise wind, bees and other insects may cross pollinate your vegetables with varieties that may introduce unwanted characteristics to the genetics of your seed. You can also prevent adding those unwanted genetics by making sure any other potential cross-pollinators will bloom before or after your chosen plants are flowering.

Keep self-pollinating plants growing in a group at least 10 feet from other potential pollinators. Self-pollinating plants are those that have both male and female flower parts on the same plant. Corn, onions, Swiss chard, lettuce, spinach, cauliflower, radishes, melons and squashes are just some examples.

Isolate and hand pollinate your vegetable flowers under a tent of plastic or fine cloth if you want to be fully in control of the pollination process to be extra sure your plants will produce reliable or ‘true’ seeds.

Or … If all this sounds a bit too demanding you can collect seed informally.

Expect variable results if your plants are open to cross pollination or if you are mixing varieties. If you just want to grow your vegetables informally in a mixed vegetable garden, chances are your seeds will likely produce good enough seed to grow next years’ crop. You may also get a number of inferior plants, some sterile seed or even that occasional unexpected unknown hybrid of your own.

Since people have been tinkering with cross-breeding plants for centuries, even heirlooms have some variability. Most vegetables — unless you are seeking to recreate a special growth pattern or color — will produce predominantly good, tasty vegetables without too much fuss.

Collecting and preserving your seeds

Collect seed from your healthiest and most successful plants. This way

Growing vegetables from collected seed can be a thrill no matter how you decide to do it.

you know at least one genetic conNote There are a number of ways to know if you are growing your origitributor is exactly what you want to nal plants from hybrids. Sometimes reproduce. it’s a simple as reading the label of the Dry seeds indoors and keep parent plants. It may state “Hybrid” them safe from humidity and pests. or “Heirloom.” Or look for varieties Over-winter your seeds in glass jars listed in Latin. Most of these are likely to keep them fresh. If you add a to be free from hybridization. Plants packet of silica gel it will keep the air or seeds labeled with letters F1, F2 or in the jar dry, preventing rot, mold “cv” are cultivated varieties and less or early germination. You can also likely to produce fertile, reliable seeds refrigerate seeds since most refrigfor you to collect to use for future erators stay at around 40 degrees F. planting.

Never freeze collected seed as most For more information about gardenvegetables are not hardy in frost. ing in the Santa Clarita Valley, visit Some vegetables I have found easy Jane Gates on YouTube at https://you to grow from plants originally raised tube.com/user/Janieg8s.  from packaged seed in my garden are lettuce and Swiss chard (both will self-seed) basil, fennel (even the fancy bronze variety although it throws a number of green plants), oregano and even peas. Tomatoes are almost always good, although I grow an assortment of varieties so I never know what size, shape or color the resulting crossbreeds will be. So far, they’ve all tasted Fennel is easy to grow from collected seed and loves our heat and sunshine. good!

S E P T E M B E R 26, 2021

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 1 5

Healthy Embrace Your Smile

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r. Megan LeCornu, Dr. Pete Weber, and Dr. Steve Gilbertson, and the entire orthodontic team at Embrace Your Smile Orthodontics have a solid reputation for high quality orthodontic treatment in Santa Clarita community as the top recognized orthodontic practice in the Santa Clarita Valley for over 10 years.

Embrace Your Smile Orthodontics are premier providers of orthodontics to children, teenagers and adults using Invisalign and traditional braces. Together, they strive to provide the orthodontic excellence and five-star customer service in a friendly, caring environment that makes each patient feel like a member of their family. With orthodontic technology constantly evolving, they aim to

use the most advanced technology available when creating customized treatment plans for each individual patient. With all of the changes that have occurred with the pandemic, we are committed to ensuring the safety of our patients, their families, our team and our community. We are following all CDC, CDA, ADA, and LA County guidelines to maintain a safe environment for our patients and staff. We want you to know that you can get the smile of your dreams in a safe, friendly environment. Now is as good of a time as any to “Embrace Your Smile.”

Visit us at embraceyoursmile. com or call (661) 259-2388 to schedule a complementary consultation. 

Living

Insight Treatment

F

or over 20 years, Insight Treatment has provided Intensive Outpatient Treatment (IOP) for teens, (13-18 years of age), struggling with mental health and/or substance abuse issues.

Whether the teen is suffering from a mental health disorder, such as depression, anxiety, trauma, or ADHD or is having behavior problems such as, self-harm, addictive behaviors, aggression, and isolation, we are here to support not only the teen, but the entire family. In addition to IOP, Insight also offers an Academic Day Program, where teens can complete their schoolwork under the supervision and guidance of our Academic Coordinators.

Insight’s fundamental belief is that teens need to feel they belong to a teen community. Teens will only real-

ly open up and express their emotional pain and challenges when they feel safe in a clinical environment.

We have therefore designed a fun and creative clubhouse environments where teens can relax, play games, and build positive relationships with peers. This environment has proved to be more conducive to fostering relationships versus a more traditional clinical setting in an office or medical building. Our large warehouse spaces also make it possible for us to continue in-person treatment during these unique times, with sufficient airflow and maximized space to maintain social distancing as we all navigate the COVID-19 pandemic.

Please call us at (888) 295-9995 to schedule a free initial assessment with our team. We are In Network with most private insurance plans. 

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S E P T E M B E R 26, 2021

H E A LT H Y L I V I N G

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Skyline Smiles

arleen Grewal, DDS, affectionately known by her patients as Dr. Harleen, brings her years of experience and exceptional chair side manner to her practice, Skyline Smiles, in Santa Clarita, California. The practice boasts a skilled team that consists of dedicated individuals who are kind, friendly, and caring.

Dr. Harleen completed her dental education (DDS) at the University of Southern California, where she was recognized on the dean’s list.

She completed her Residency and received her specialty certificate in pediatric dentistry from Lutheran Medical Center in Holyoke, MA. Being a Board Certified Pediatric Dentist and having two children of her own, Dr. Harleen understands the importance of making children feel comfortable and look forward to their dental visits. A clean and

organized dental office can do wonders for calming anxiety and fear.

Her primary goal is to make every visit to the dental office as friendly, streamlined and convenient as possible.

Dental care can often be intimidating for children. Dr Harleen`s comprehensive approach is focused on more than simply providing exceptional care. We are focused on educating parents and children about oral hygiene, treatment techniques, and preventative options.

Dr. Harleen has volunteered at the USC Mobile Clinic during her time in Los Angeles and helped provide children with free oral health services through the ADA Foundation program known as Give Kids A Smile®. She is also proudly a part of the American Dental Association and the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry. 

Hearing loss putting you at risk?

U

ntreated hearing loss has been known to be connected with a number of health conditions such as heart disease and depression, but a new study shows that accidental injury could be another health concern to add to that list.

Using data collected from the National Health Interview Survey between 2007 and 2015, researchers examined accidental injuries among adults. The results showed that those with hearing loss were twice as likely to experience an accidental injury whether it was at home, at work, in the car, or during a leisure activity.

It can be assumed that if someone does not have their full hearing ability, it will be more difficult for them to spot dangers. Ears are also related to balance. Hearing loss can create balance difficulties and has been associated with more incidences of falling, and therefore, more frequent hospitalization.

One interesting note from the study

is that those with minor hearing loss were more likely to experience accidental injuries than those with severe hearing loss. This suggests that those with severe hearing problems are more aware of their needs and are able to more easily identify when they may come across danger.

The most important thing to do if you suspect you have a problem with your hearing is to make an appointment with a hearing healthcare specialist. They will help provide options for treatment and give you guidance on how to navigate life with hearing loss.

To schedule a hearing consultation, please call Audiology Associates at (661) 284-1900. Kevin Bolder, Au.D and John Davis, Au.D are two of the best in Santa Clarita and San Fernando Valley. Visit our website at www.

AudiologyAssociates.net or stop by our office located at 23838 Valencia Blvd, Suite 100, Valencia, CA 91355.

We are hearing healthcare excellence! 

S E P T E M B E R 26, 2021

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 1 7

• Botox • Injectables • Dermal Fillers • Laser Hair Removal • Microdermabrasion • Microneedling • Chemical Peels • Skin Rejuvenation • Laser Facials • Hydra Facials • LED Therapy • IV Infusion Therapy

661.544.4036

28532 La Madrid Drive, Suite C, Santa Clarita, CA 91350

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S E P T E M B E R 26, 2021

H E A LT H Y L I V I N G

Mind Body Infusion

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ind Body Infusion is a full-service wellness resource serving men and women both in and around Santa Clarita, California.

The practice, under the leadership of Yuvraj Grewal, MD, is staffed with some of the best medical and aesthetics professionals in the region, all of whom share a dedication to enhancing lives.

It was founded on the belief that vitamin and nutrient infusions can transform health and wellness. Clients can choose from a wide range of infusion options, ranging from treatments to support immunity, detoxification, energy, hydration, fitness, weight loss, digestive health and more. The providers can even create a customized cocktail to address specific needs.

Mind Body Infusion also offers the latest in medical aesthetics. These treatments underscore the belief that looking one’s best often equates to feeling one’s best. Team members are trained in how to assess each client’s

features and skin to determine which treatments offer the best results.

From chemical peels to medicalgrade facials and injectables, Mind Body Infusion has the tools needed to create safe, lasting, and gorgeous results. Team members receive ongoing education and hands-on training that allows them to leverage these advanced tools to each client’s greatest advantage.

The office setting is designed for comfort and is intended to provide a peaceful, welcoming environment.

Clients are encouraged to relax and enjoy their time at Mind Body Infusion, especially in light of the stress and uncertainties of modern life.

For those in Santa Clarita, who are curious about how infusion therapy or medical aesthetics can play a role in their health and wellness journey, the best way to learn more is to schedule a visit at Mind Body Infusion. The practice is currently accepting new clients and looks forward to welcoming new members into the Mind Body Infusion family. 

S E P T E M B E R 26, 2021

DR. HARLEEN GREWAL

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 1 9

• Adult and Pediatric Dentistry • Sedation Dentistry • “Teeth Straightening” with clear aligners • Teeth Whitening • Cosmetic Dentistry • Composite Fillings • Veneers • Laminates

• Adult, Pediatric & Family Dentist • We speak both English and Spanish • We spend time with every patient to develop lasting relationships • State of The Art Facility using the latest in dental technology • Our Dentist is Board Certified

by American Board of Pediatric Dentistry • We are passionate about our patients & their oral health

661.244.4036

hello@skylinesmile.com 28532 La Madrid Drive, Suite B • Santa Clarita, CA 91350

Skylinesmile.com

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S E P T E M B E R 26, 2021

H E A LT H Y L I V I N G

Veloz Breast Center raises Breast Cancer Awareness

O

ctober is National Breast Cancer Awareness (BCA) month, a time when Henry Mayo Newhall Hospital’s Sheila R. Veloz Breast Center raises awareness about breast cancer and the importance of early detection. Each year the Sheila R. Veloz Breast Center selects a breast cancer survivor to serve as a BCA Month ambassador. This selfless woman shares her story to encourage others to get annual mammograms.

Michelle Geisbauer is a wife, mother, and life-long Santa Clarita resident with a thriving personal training business. In the summer of 2019 she was diagnosed with Ductal Carcinoma in Situ (DCIS), a non-invasive breast cancer in which the cells have not spread through the walls of the ducts into the nearby breast tissue. “I remember the day I went into the Sheila R. Veloz Breast Center,” said Michelle. “The staff always had a way of making an uncomfortable procedure a pleas-

ant experience. I completed my 3D screening mammogram and an abnormality was detected. The next day I was asked to return for diagnostic imaging which confirmed the presence of calcifications and I was told a biopsy was required.”

A few days later, the biopsy was scheduled with Henry Mayo physician Gregory Senofsky, MD, and the results confirmed Michelle’s worst fears. “I had breast cancer and it was a difficult and challenging time,” said Michelle.

“But I’m forever grateful because early detection had worked for me.”

“I learned during the course of my journey that breast cancer doesn’t discriminate,” Michelle said. “It can reach out and touch all of us at some point in life despite our lifestyle habits, which is why annual mammograms are so important.”

“I am so blessed to have beat the odds and survived breast cancer,” said Michelle. “I couldn’t have gotten through this without the love and support of my amazing family. My

husband Tony and I have been married for 26 years and our two children Kayla and Jake are the light of our lives. My sister Karen, who just happens to be a radiology technician, accompanied me to all of my appointments and procedures and

M

I’m forever indebted to her. The staff at Henry Mayo Newhall Hospital and the Sheila R. Veloz Breast Center were wonderful and I appreciated all of the concern, care, and compassion I received throughout this entire experience.” 

Molly Maid

ollymaid has served Santa Clarita valley for over 30 years. We take pride in having been voted number 1 cleaning company for several years in a row.

The secret of our success has been that we have always make customers satisfaction our number one priority. Our ladies many of whom have worked for the company for over 20 years, work tirelessly every day to ensure that we maintain the high standards that our customers have become used to.

We consider it a privilege to have

been given the opportunity to clean your home. We know that you have chosen us because you love and care for your home and we never forget that.

At the end of the day a company is only as good as the relationships it builds with it’s customers. We are very grateful that over many years real and lasting bonds have been forged between our house cleaning professionals and homeowners.

We would like to thank all our new and old customers from the bottom of our hearts for choosing Molly Maid. 

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S E P T E M B E R 26, 2021

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 2 1

SENIORLIVING

Healthy eating options for seniors

vises Sonas Home Health Care.

Anti-inflammatory foods Foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids may help prevent inflammation that can cause cancer and rheumatoid arthritis.

Aging.com says foods that are high in omega-3 fatty acids, like salmon, should be consumed at least twice per week.

“L

et food be thy medicine” is a quote attributed to Hippocrates, the ancient scholar considered to be the father of modern medicine. The saying relates to the notion that what people put in their bodies can heal and/or prevent certain conditions.

For seniors with medicine cabinets full of over-the-counter and prescription medications, the idea of relying predominantly on food to promote optimal health may be tempting, and various foods can be particularly useful to the 50-and-over demographic.

According to the World Health Organization, poor diet is a major contributor to many of the diseases that affect older people.

Poor diet has been connected to the development of diabetes, and degenerative diseases such as osteoporosis also may be linked to the foods ones eat. The National Council for Aging Care says micronutrient deficiency is often a problem among the aging due to factors like lack of variety in diet and reduced food intake.

Eating a variety of foods can provide all of the nutrients people need to stay healthy as they get older. Certain foods may be particularly helpful.

Brain-friendly foods Foods such as avocado, leafy vegetables, sunflower seeds, blueberries, and salmon are good sources of vitamin E, antioxidants, omega-3 fatty acids, and other nutrients that may help ward off dementias like Alzheimer’s disease, ad-

Fruits and vegetables Fresh, canned or frozen produce tend to be high in micronutrients, including a variety of important vitamins that are essential for all components of health.

The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics advises eating dark green vegetables, such as leafy greens or broccoli, and orange vegetables, such as carrots and sweet potatoes.

Energy-boosters Choose whole grains that can provide sustained energy by way of healthy carbohydrates over processed grains.

Bone-friendly foods Calcium-rich foods, such as milk, yogurt and cheese, can prevent calcium from being leached from the bones, which contributes to conditions like osteoporosis.

WE LOVE TO

HELP YOU

HEAR! Since 1987 our mission at Advanced Audiology has been helping the community of Santa Clarita hear better.

Individualized hearing care customized to your needs.

If you’re not happy with your current hearing aids, schedule a FREE consultation and we will see if we can adjust them for you.

Digestive system-friendly foods The digestive system slows down as the body ages, as the walls of the gastrointestinal tract thicken and digestive contractions that push waste along may slow down and become fewer. Foods rich in fiber can promote proper digestion by moving food through the digestive tract mor easily. High-fiber foods also may help naturally reduce blood cholesterol levels.

High-iron foods Without enough iron in the body, a person may feel tired and lethargic from a reduced production of hemoglobin, which carries oxygen in the blood from the lungs to the rest of the body. A lack of oxygen in body tissues from anemia can be serious, says the National Council for Aging Care. Tofu, spinach, lentils, pumpkin seeds, and fortified breads and cereals are high in iron.

Smart food choices can help seniors live long and healthy lives. (MC) 

ADVANCED AUDIOLOGY is proud to be the Valley Industy Association 2020 BUSINESS OF THE YEAR and theSanta Clarita Chamber of Commerce 2019 BUSINESS OF THE YEAR.

scvadvancedaudiology.com 661.200.9470

23822 VALENCIA BLVD. | SUITE 103 | VALENCIA

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S E P T E M B E R 26, 2021

Glasses & Contacts Today Complete Pediatric & Adult Eye Examinations AESTHETIC EYE CARE EYE INFECTIONS DRY EYE TREATMENT RED EYE

Comfort • Quality • Value • Trust

Good vision can make all the difference.

Dr. Michael Corben • Dr. Joshua Corben Our staff and Doctors speak Spanish to better serve you.

Santa Clarita Medical Center, 23206 Lyons Avenue, Santa Clarita, Ca 91321 661 259 2168 • corbenoptometry.com

C

Comfort Keepers

omfort Keepers is the premier provider of In-Home Care and is a licensed Home Care Organization locally owned and operated by Myles McNamara, Certified Senior Advisor.

Comfort Keepers’ goal is to enable seniors to remain in the privacy and comfort of their own home for as long as possible. Often, all that is needed is a helping hand with daily tasks, including but not limited to, medication reminders, assistance with bathing/showering, meal preparation, light housekeeping, laundry, transportation (beauty salon, doctors, etc.), grocery shopping, companionship, grooming guidance, recreational activities, and more.

We are also instrumental in lowering the stress for family members who are juggling their own busy lives and work schedules around attending to a loved one’s needs.

Our service provides peace of mind

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THANK-YOU SANTA CLARITA for choosing us again!

H E A LT H Y L I V I N G

knowing these needs and daily activities are being taken care of. It will allow quality time to be spent with loved ones, rather than attending to chores.

If falling is a concern, just knowing someone is with them can make all the difference.

Our Caregivers are also specifically trained for Alzheimer’s and Dementia care. Although our clients are primarily Seniors, our services are available for anyone over the age of 18 experiencing difficulties with daily tasks because of illness or injury.

Offering In-Home Care for Seniors, and anyone 18 and older recovering from illness or injury. Servicing the Santa Clarita and San Fernando Valleys, with office in Santa Clarita and Encino.

Myles McNamara, owner of Comfort Keepers In-Home Care, is a Certified Senior Advisor. He can be reached at (661) 287-4200. 

Santa Clarita Advanced Dentistry

ooking for a caring, compassionate and life-changing dentist? Look no further than Santa Clarita Advanced Dentistry.

Established in 1998 by Drs. Allen and Kelly Smudde, this state-of-theart practice offers every service from hygiene visits, teeth whitening, invisalign, to in-house hand-sculpted dentures. They truly have it all.

Not to mention they have been serving the Santa Clarita Valley for 22 Years, and have won the ‘Best Of ” Award for Dentistry through the Signal 9 years in a row!

What makes them different?

Dentistry has been a passion and family tradition tracing back over multiple generations in their families.

Dr. Kelly even comes from a long lineage of dentists that traces back over 100 years. Not only has knowledge been passed down from from generation to generation, but Dr. Allen and Dr. Kelly have made it a point to invest in their team and the latest cutting edge technology.

With immense respect for their

patients and utilizing state-of-theart technology, they ensure that their patients are given the best care and a world-class dental experience.

On top of delivering exceptional patient care, Dr. Kelly also strives to train the next generation of Dental Assistants through her on-site school, Santa Clarita School of Dental Assisting.

This 12-week accelerated program sends students directly into the workforce in less than three months with certifications in Assisting, Radiology, Pit and Fissures, Coronal Polishing and Sealants.

To learn more about the Dental Assisting School please visit their Instagram Page @Santa.Clarita.Dental.Assisting or their website dentaljobnow. com For more information about the office or to schedule an appointment, call (661) 259-4474 or go to Your ValenciaDentist.com.

You can also follow the office adventures on their social media sites. Facebook @SantaClaritaAdvanced Dentist ry or Instagram @SCVdentists. 

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Nola Aronson’s Advanced Audiology

We’ve been providing the highest-quality hearing healthcare for more than 40 years. As Santa Clarita’s largest hearing diagnostics center we know how important your hearing is to your life, loved ones, work success, safety, and ability to stay in the game.

N

ola Aronson received a bachelor’s degree in Special Education from the University of Hartford in 1975 and taught until 1981 with many types of disabled children.

She then received her master’s degree in Audiology from California State University, Long Beach in 1982. Nola holds certifications of Clinical Competence from the American Hearing and Speech Association and the American Academy of Audiology. She is licensed by the state in audiology and hearing aid dispensing.

Advanced Audiology is the largest diagnostic hearing center in Santa Clarita, and leader of advanced technology and invisible hearing solutions. We also offer assistive listening devices to help you hear better on a phone, with TV, in meetings and in church.

Patients are treated as family and we pride ourselves on excellent listening skills. Our motto is “Give People More Than They Expect.” Take a look at our audiologist reviews and Google reviews to see why we are considered the best audiologists in Santa Clarita by our customers. Our group of audiologists (with over 60 years of combined experience) provide you with a unique solution to achieve the goal of improved quality of life through better hearing.

In a recent survey of 100 doctors and patients, it was reported: The office is knowledgeable, friendly, trustworthy and honest. They educate first and give you solutions not a sales pitch.”

Our experience in fitting hearing aids is what sets us apart.

Utilizing our exclusive ‘Exact Match Hearing Process™” you’re guaranteed to be happy with your results. We are Santa Clarita Valley’s official authorized provider for Facey and UCLA Health patients.

Voted 2020 Business of The Year by VIA, voted #19 of 51 Most Influential people in Santa Clarita in 2020 by The Signal, voted 2019 Business of the Year by SCV Chamber of Commerce, voted 2020 Best Audiologist by Elite Magazine, Voted Business of the Month by Senator Scott Wilk.

23822 VALENCIA BLVD SUITE 103 VALENCIA | 91355 | (661) 200-9470 | SCVADVANCEDAUDIOLOGY.COM

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H E A LT H Y L I V I N G

Healthy habits that can become part of your daily life

A

person’s habits can have a strong impact on his or her overall health. Unhealthy habits like smoking and living a sedentary lifestyle can increase a person’s risk for various conditions and diseases. On the flip side, healthy habits like eating a nutritious diet and getting enough sleep can bolster a person’s immune system and reduce his or her risk for various ailments.

Some healthy habits, like daily exercise, can be time-consuming. Busy adults may not have time to exercise vigorously each day, though the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services urges men and women to find time for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity each week. But not all healthy habits take up time. In fact, adults can incorporate various healthy practices into their daily routines without skipping a beat.

Take the stairs Taking the stairs

instead of the elevator can have a profound effect on overall health. According to Duke University, climbing just two flights of stairs combined per day can contribute to six pounds of weight loss over the course of a single year. In addition, a study from the North American Menopause Society found that stair climbing can help postmenopausal women reduce their risk for osteoporosis.

Drink more water The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention notes that water helps the body maintain a

normal temperature, lubricates and cushions joints, protects the spinal cord and other sensitive tissues, and helps to rid the body of waste through urination, perspiration and bowel movements. Adults who are thirsty can choose water over soda or other sugary beverages. The CDC notes that sugary beverages contain calories but little nutritional value, making water a healthier way for individuals to quench their thirst.

Go for daily walks Walking benefits the body in myriad ways. For example, the Harvard School of Public Health notes that women who walk 30 minutes per day can reduce their risk of stroke by 20% and potentially by 40% if they walk briskly. In addition, researchers at the University of Virginia Health System found that men between the ages of 71 and 93 who walked more than a quarter mile per day had half the incidence of dementia and Alzheimer’s disease as men who walked less. A 15-minute walk

around the neighborhood each morning coupled with a 15-minute walk after dinner can help adults dramatically improve their overall health.

Eat more greens Eating more greens is another healthy habit that doesn’t require a major overhaul of an individual’s lifestyle. The U.S. Department of Agriculture notes that dark green leafy vegetables, such as spinach, are rich in vitamins A,C, E, and K. The Mayo Clinic notes that vitamin E alone can help people maintain their vision and promote a healthy reproductive system while also improving the health of the blood, brain and skin. Adults won’t have to reinvent the dietary wheel to incorporate more greens into their diets, and the results of doing so can have a significant, positive effect on their overall health.

The right habits can help people live healthier lives, and such habits need not require any major life changes. (MC) 

Get the Care You Need Today Walk-in Medical Care When You Need It.

Urgent care centers, sometimes called walk-in clinics, are a convenient healthcare resource for people nationwide.

At AFC (American Family Care®), we do not require appointments or referrals. If you cannot wait until your primary care physician has time for an appointment, our clinics are here to provide the immediate medical care you need at a fraction of the cost you will encounter at the emergency room. We strive to make the healthcare experience as convenient and accessible as possible, which is why our clinics are open during the evening hours and on weekends.

AFC Urgent Care Clinics are perfect for your entire family. We are happy to treat patients of any age, including children 6 months and up, adults and seniors. Our goal is to treat your family with the best healthcare possible in a kind, clean and caring environment.

Now celebrating over 9 years at our Canyon Country location and 4 months at our Valencia location we are very pleased to have chosen Santa Clarita for both centers. We love serving the communities where we work and live and hope to continue earning your trust.

AFC is an affordable, convenient way to receive the best medical care for non-life-threatening situations. Among the many services offered, we treat typical colds, coughs, cuts and bruises; provide digital X-rays, diagnose broken bones; test and give immediate results for strep and mono. AFC Urgent Care also provides Occupational and Workers Comp services. Dr. Hernandez says, “Think of us as an alternative to the modern-day emergency room for non-life-threatening health care needs, without the wait, at a fraction of the cost.”

Both locations are open Mon-Sat 8am-8pm Sun 8am-6pm.

COVID-19 SERVICES are scheduled through our website portal for each location.

*** GET YOUR FLU SHOT TODAY ***

AFC Urgent Care of Santa Clarita 19042 Soledad Canyon Road Santa Clarita 91352

AFC Urgent Care Valencia 27550 Newhall Ranch Road Ste 203 Valencia 91355

www.AFCUrgentCareSantaClarita.com

AFCUrgentCare.com/Valencia

661-251-6300

661-402-8903

S E P T E M B E R 26, 2021

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H E A LT H Y L I V I N G

Corben Optometry

T

here have been many treatments developed over the years to treat blepharitis and dry eye. We are pleased to announced the cutting edge of treatment options for patients that experiencing chronic blepharitis and dry eye. TempsureEnvi.

TempSure Envi is a radiofrequency (RF) laser treatment that safely and effectively treats dry eye for a healthierlooking appearance. TempSure Envi is a radiofrequency (RF) laser treatment that safely and effectively treats baggy and dry eyes for a smoother, healthier-looking appearance.

Meibomian Gland Disease (MBD) is the leading cause of dry eye and ocular discomfort, and it is now treatable with this radiofrequency laser!

By delivering a radiofrequency laser to heat your skin gently, TempSure Envi increases your skin’s temperature for a defined amount of time.

This heat triggers the body’s natural reaction to produce new collagen and

stimulates clogged tear glands and revives an optimal surface for the eye.

These new collagen fibers are tighter and denser. As a result, excess skin in the lower or upper eyelid is reduced.

Unlike IPL, Meibomian gland expression, or lipiflow, TempSure Envi helps both structure of the glands as well as their function. It works on all skin types, and everyone is a candidate.

Treatments are primarily recommended to patients who experience skin laxity (looseness) around the eyes, baggy eyes, and dry eyes.

We love this radiofrequency laser system because it can treat the smaller, more delicate areas on the face.

TempSure Envi has been carefully designed with comfort in mind.

The radiofrequency laser provides a pleasant and effective treatment every time. Most of our patients describe the treatment as comfortable.

Treatments take about 30 minutes.

See CORBEN, page 26

Bennett’s Honey Farm is a family owned honey processing operation.

Visit our retail store and see all of our honey varieties. Similar to shopping for wine, you will find that each honey has its own personality and bouquet.

We offer 100% raw, unfiltered honey from the flowers of Orange, Sage, Wildflower, Avocado, Eucalyptus, Buckwheat and Clover as well as Cactus honey. Additionally, we offer Honeycomb packed in one pound squares and comb chunk in glass jars.

Bennett’s Honey Farm is a full service commercial honey packing facility that offers extracting services as well as custom and/or private labeling options.

Produced in the beautiful Heritage Valley of Ventura County, we at Bennett’s Honey Farm have been awarded blue ribbons at both the Los Angeles

and Ventura County Fairs. We bottle our honey under the Topanga Quality Honey© label. Find us at Whole Foods Market, Ralphs, Fresh and Easy and many other specialty markets.

Look for us on the web at www. bennetthoney.com where you can see and read about all our products and take a video tour of the facility.

You’ll also have the option to click on our EStore link and shop for our products online. Find our products along the beautiful Heritage Valley Corridor on Hwy 126, between Los Angeles and Ventura Counties, at various local fruit stands.

So, look for the bright red, blue and yellow Topanga Quality Honey Tasting Room™ sign and “Come and experience what real Honey is all about!” 

General and Surgical Dermatology

We are OPEN!

Before

After 24 hours

After 4 days

After 10 days

Before

After 1 tx

Come In For A Consult

Laser Resurfacing • Sun Damage • Acne • Skin Discoloration • Microdermabrasion • Botox • Restylane • Facials • Varicose Veins

New Opus Fractional Plasma Laser

Chris Towery PhD, NP • Dr. Frank Lusher, Medical Director 23206 Lyons Ave, Suites 103/104 Santa Clarita, CA 91321

661.254.7400

www.FacesLaser.com

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S E P T E M B E R 26, 2021

H E A LT H Y L I V I N G

CORBEN

Continued from page 25

There is no downtime, allowing you to return to your normal activities. We usually recommend that you schedule a series of treatments and regular maintenance appointments to help you maintain the glands open and working properly. You will walk away from your appointment with a natural glow, and what many patients describe as a “tighter” feeling. Best of all, your

“Step into this studio where you can be your truest self … smile, laugh, cry, have fun! A cozy home yoga studio with a variety of classes, workshops, and events to best serve you. Filled with passion and love to Let Your Lotus Bloom. “

(714) 316-3806

www.myyogacanyoncountry.com

17724 Sierra Hwy, Canyon Country, Ca 91351

H

ealth screenings are a vital component of preventative health care. Specific screenings for older adults can help them stay healthy.

Healthline and WebMD recommend older adults schedule these routine tests.

• Blood pressure check • Blood test to check cholesterol and triglyceride levels • Colorectal cancer exam starting at

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results will continue to enhance over time.

If you suffer from Dry Eye Syndrome, schedule an appointment at Corben Optometry. When you come in for your initial consultation, the focus is all about you. We will create a custom treatment plan just for you and ensure you get the care that you deserve. Call (661)259-2168 or request an appointment through our website (Corbenoptometry.com)today.  age 50 • Weight screening to check for gains or losses • Prostate cancer screening for men age 70 and older • Breast exam and mammogram for women, starting at age 40 • Hearing test • Osteoporosis test • Shingles and pneumococcal vaccines • Eye exam • Periodontal exam once per year (MC) 

S E P T E M B E R 26, 2021

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 2 7

MENTAL HEALTH & ADDICTION TREATMENT

FOR TEENS AND THEIR FAMILIES

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800.599.8820 www.insighttreatment.com

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S E P T E M B E R 26, 2021

THINGSTODO

FALL

Continued from page 7

79, five miles north of I-8. Here autumn enthralls with the beautiful golden yellow leaves of the black oak. Camp amongst the colorful splendor of this woodland oak forest.

Info www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=667 Mount San Jacinto State Park (Riverside County), in Idyllwild offers spectacular fall foliage mixed with high altitude wilderness.

Info www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=636 Palomar Mountain State Park (San Diego County), off Highway 76, up Highway S6, left on Highway S7, at the junction near the peak. The park features something different, a fall vista of bracken fern in the meadows turning a rich golden brown against the dark green of adjacent forests.

Info www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=637 Silverwood Lake State Recreation Area (San Bernardino County), off Interstate 15, east Highway 138, past Highway 143 out of Hesperia, features an autumn vista of black oaks nestled in pines.

Info www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=650. 

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S E P T E M B E R 26, 2021

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 2 9

K I D S & FA M I LY

Donna’s Day: Creative Family Fun

Frame and bookmark your summer memories

By Donna Erickson Signal Contributing Writer

W

eekends are made for families, and fall is all about the changing color palette of the great outdoors. Put them together, and you have the potential for awesome adventures in your neighborhood and beyond.

When you get home, keep the memory alive with these two handson activities using found materials — free from nature.

Say it with flowers

Preserve the last of your garden flowers in bookmarks. Gather a colorful assortment of small blooms and leaves. Spread them between sheets of wax paper and press them flat by topping with heavy books. Let them dry for about a week.

Cut several 6-inch-by-2-inch pieces of poster board. Arrange the pressed

flowers and leaves on one side of each one. Glue in place using a paintbrush dipped in household glue. When dry, cover the decorated side only with a piece of clear Con-Tact self-adhesive covering. Trim overlapping edges.

Punch a hole in the top, and tie a ribbon or tassel through it to finish the bookmark.

Turn it over and use a ruler and a marker to make 10 lines. Every time your child reads a book, write down the title on one line.

Frame a memory

When you admire the flowers and plants growing in your garden and neighborhood, have you ever thought of them as a rainbow of color? For fun, name the colors you observe, take a photo and display it in a natural frame.

Cut out the front side of a medium-size cereal box, or cut a piece of corrugated cardboard from a packing box the size you wish your frame

to be. Using a sharp pair of scissors, an adult should cut out a rectangular shape in the middle, slightly smaller than the size of the photo or drawing you are framing.

Put a few globs of glue on the card-

board and affix strips of found tree bark all over until completely covered. Glue four thin sticks or woody stems to the outside edges to frame the frame, then add decorations such as moss and pinecones. Let dry.

Affix the photo to a piece of cardboard cut slightly larger than the cutout portion of the frame. Tape it to the back.

To hang on a bulletin board or wall, glue or tape a metal flip tab from a soda can to the back of the frame. A nail or pushpin will fit through the hole.

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.

When cooler weather arrives, tree leaves reduce the production of chlorophyll, which gives leaves the green color. Other pigments in the leaves then start to show through. (MC) 

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SOLUTIONS

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S E P T E M B E R 26, 2021

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Santa Clarita: 23900 Lyons Ave - 661-287-4200 Encino: 17915 Ventura Blvd #216 -818-776-5060 Each office independently owned and operated. © 2010 CK Franchising, Inc.

Each office independently owned and operated. © 2010 CK Franchising, Inc.