Sunday Signal November 28, 2021

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NOVEMBER 28, 2021

Want to Raise this Puppy?

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RIDE WITH THE AERO BUREAU

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GETTING YOUR HOME READY TO SELL

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

N O V E M B E R 28, 2021

NEWS FEATURES 5 5 Tender Loving Canines searching for puppy raisers 6 Aero Bureau can spell terror or be an angel from above Unique reasons to shop at small businesses 8 Selling your home doesn’t have to be daunting 9 Old-age tech, new-age crime deterrent FROM THE CITY MANAGER 10 10 Get in the holiday spirit at The Cube HANUKKAH 11 11 Tradition is a major component The meaning behind the menorah ENTERTAINMENT 12 12 ‘Encanto’ is enchanting with a bounty of new songs FOOD 13 13 Michele makes Hanukkah desserts GIFT GUIDE 15 BOOK REVIEW 19 19 Four great gift ideas for the holidays CELEBRITY NEWS 19 SENIOR LIVING 20 20 Financing long-term care needs HOME 21 21 Prep your home for holiday guests PETS 24 24 Picture perfect pups: photography tips KIDS & FAMILY 25 25 Donna’s Day: Bread bears Junior Whirl • New Word • Get the Picture?

PUZZLES 26 OPINION 27 SPORTS

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N O V E M B E R 28, 2021

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N E W S F E AT U R E

Tender Loving Canines searching for puppy raisers

By Emily Alvarenga Signal Senior Staff Writer

A

s the holidays fast approach, Guide Dogs of America | Tender Loving Canines are in search of Santa Clarita Valley residents to open their hearts — and homes — to a puppy-in-training.

The local guide dog and service dog program has been facing an extreme shortage of volunteers this winter to help raise five litters of Labrador retrievers and Labrador/golden crosses who are scheduled to move into their puppy raisers’ homes through December and into January.

“Maintaining an adequate supply of puppy raisers is always a challenge,” said Stephanie Colman, GDA | TLC’s puppy program coordinator. “It’s not your garden variety volunteer gig … but really, it’s an opportunity to give your time in a way it’s going to transform the lives of somebody living with a disability.”

These puppies grow up to lead the blind, provide a sense of safety and security to veterans, open doors of possibility for children on the autism spectrum or serve a variety of vulnerable populations, Colman said.

When the pandemic left many at home, GDA | TLC saw a boost in puppy-raiser applicants. However, as many began to return to work, the shortage began and has since become more pronounced as the holidays approach.

As the demand for service dogs surges, GDA | TLC is on track to graduate 80 working teams annually in the coming years, which is around 20 more than its annual average.

“If you ever dreamt about a puppy for Christmas, well, here’s your chance,” Colman said. “A puppy adds even more joy to holiday festivities and giving one’s time in raising a puppy to change the life of

PHOTOS COURTESY GUIDE DOGS OF AMERICA | TENDER LOVING CANINES

someone with a disability is perfect for this season of giving.”

Becoming a puppy raiser

For a little over a year, volunteers not only provide puppies with a loving, stable home but also teach basic obedience and house manners, with training assistance from GDA | TLC. No experience is necessary, as puppy raisers receive full support from the organization through regional puppy classes and meetings, cohorts of fellow raisers, meet-ups with GDA | TLC’s professional training staff and more.

Puppy raisers are also tasked with incorporating

the dogs into the activities of daily life to socialize them.

“We want them to be exposed to much of what the world has to offer so that it’s somewhat familiar and also so that they have opportunities to practice their obedience and being calm and confident in this wide variety of different circumstances,” Colman said.

“The biggest need for us is someone who has the time and the willingness to be consistent in their training,” Colman added.

GDA | TLC welcomes puppy raisers from all lifestyles: families, single people, homeowners, apartment dwellers and homes with resident pets, among other situations.

“People often say they’d love to raise a puppy but can’t imagine having to ‘give it back,’” Colman added. “You aren’t giving the dog back, you’re giving it forward, as a gift of confidence, independence and mobility. It’s life-changing — for both the clients and the puppy raisers, especially when they meet the recipient of the dog they raised.”

Colman compared the dogs’ return to sending a child off to college, as it’s just as rewarding to see the dogs be assigned to either the guide dog or service dog program.

The organization covers all veterinary care, and puppy raisers pay for food, toys and flea/tick preventatives purchased at cost through the organization, while out-of-pocket expenses are tax-deductible.

Prospective applicants can learn more about the program in an online info session at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, Dec. 11, by visiting bit.ly/3cqGBDU or by calling (818) 833-6447. 

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N O V E M B E R 28, 2021

N E W S F E AT U R E

Aero Bureau can spell terror or be an angel from above

By Caleb Lunetta Signal Senior Staff Writer

F

rom a thousand feet in the air, pilots in the Los Angeles County Sheriff ’s Department Aero squadron say they can see if someone is acting guilty or innocent based on how a possible subject on the ground responds to their search light shining on them.

Deputy Ted Gomez, while piloting an LASD AS350 B2 on patrol over Lancaster, joked that the powerful search light on the helicopter is their “light of justice,” an allusion to Wonder Woman’s “Lasso of Truth” in the comic books.

If they turn the light on directly pointed down at a suspect, after flying over the location, making a hard left banking maneuver at 100 mph, to begin circling the subject, and the person on the ground does not react, it likely means they’re not worth looking at for an extended period.

But if they shine bright light on the subject, and that person begins to act quickly or nervously drive away — it gives them a better idea on whether this person is worth following.

“I come into work and I have a blast doing this,” Gomez said just before hopping in Air 29 and stashing away his midflight snack of gummy bears.

“Who else can say they get to do this?”

History of Aero Bureau

A terror or an angel from above, depending on who you are, the Los Angeles County Sheriff ’s Department Aero Bureau is made up of the men and women piloting the law enforcement helicopters seen regularly in the skies above L.A. County.

In its first iteration in 1926, five pilots made up the “Sheriff ’s Aero Squadron,” many of whom flew in an open cockpit biplane and whose “principle activities of the squadron at that time focused on searches for criminal suspects attempting to flee the

A day for Sgt. Pat Morris (shown) and Deputy Ted Gomez of the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department Aero Bureau begins at around 4 p.m. He and his partner will be on shift for the next 10 hours. PHOTOS BY JOSE HERRERA / THE SIGNAL

county or seeking refuge in the hills and canyons surrounding the greater Los Angeles area, mountain searches for missing or stranded hikers, prisoner transportation flights and aerial demonstrations and exhibitions throughout Los Angeles County,” according to LASD’s own recorded history.

Following the 1933 Long Beach Earthquake — and a group of volunteer pilots carrying a deputy sheriff observer on board in order to provide “timely and valuable damage assessment” of the quake area — the L.A. County Board of Supervisors officially decided to recognize the “Sheriff ’s Aero Detail” later that year.

In June 1966, the Sky Knight Helicopter Patrol Program was created in the city of Lakewood and flew regularly scheduled patrols, becoming the first program of its kind in the nation. The Sky Knight program would also make national history, when in 1981 they inducted the first full-time

Deputy Ted Gomez examines instruments inside a helicopter as he prepares to begin his shift.

female law enforcement helicopter pilot.

And now, nearly a century removed from the bureau’s creation and known simply as the LASD Aero Bureau, the patrol consists of a mixture of aircraft — including three fixed wing airplanes, three rescue helicopters and 15 patrol helicopters — that, depending on the aircraft, can assist with medical emergencies, help missing hikers and/or track down criminals.

Despite the expanded responsibilities over the years and different technology and aerospace machine capabilities, the Aero Bureau continues on with the practice of taking to the skies over Los Angeles County, and in all things, assisting those on the ground.

Becoming an LASD pilot

“We listen for high-risk calls and violent crimes in progress: robberies, burglaries, assaults. We’ll help out ground crews with missing persons and hikers,” said Sgt. Pat Morris, who was sitting shotgun in Air 29 with Gomez as his pilot on a recent Friday night with two Signal journalists along as passengers.

Both Morris and Gomez have multiple decades of combined experience working in the Los Angeles County Sheriff ’s Department — first starting in custody, then working as deputies in a variety of LASD’s branches, before ultimately making the switch to Aero.

“It’s a totally different perspective, especially when it comes to police work,” said Gomez. “You

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Aero Bureau is one of the most competitive department groups for deputies to apply to and succeed in — having to stand out among hundreds of other applicants each time there’s a new opening.

have to come up here with the experience of a Metro patrol deputy.”

In addition to having to know what the situation on the ground is like, figuring out where and how the “eyes in the sky” should be assisting, being a deputy also assists in knowing the community you’ll be flying over, often at night, according to the pilots. In fact, during their first few months, pilots are told they must use a paper map instead of the onboard GPS system on the off chance that their instruments go down at some point in their careers.

Speaking of becoming a pilot for LASD, Morris and Gomez said the Aero Bureau is one of the most competitive department groups for deputies to apply to and succeed in — having to stand out among hundreds of other applicants each time there’s a new opening.

According to Gomez, not only did he have to apply multiple times to the program, but he also then had to make it through months of training and complete hundreds of hours of flight time. He said about 80% of his class dropped out before becoming an official Aero deputy.

A day in the life of an LASD pilot

A day for Morris and Gomez, they said, when they’re up in the sky, begins at around 4 p.m. in Pomona and the two will be on shift for the next 10 hours. The helicopter they were flying in at the time of this interview was Air 29, which primarily patrols the North County, including the Santa Clarita Valley, Palmdale and Lancaster.

Although they largely spend their time in Lancaster and Palmdale, they say in only a couple of minutes, the two men can respond to a call in any part of their jurisdiction. For instance, at a speed of 130 mph and taking off from the helipad at the SCV Sheriff ’s Station, the two began circling the scene of

“At some point those guys on the ground are probably going to stop chasing them, but we don’t. We will keep following these guys until the wheels fall off.”

— Deputy Ted Gomez an assault with a deadly weapon in Lancaster within 12-13 minutes from the initial take off.

“We fly for three hours, then we go down for two hours for fuel and eat lunch,” said Morris, adding that they then head back up after their break. “It kind of gives your body a break because you can’t sit there for six hours straight ... unless we’re on something major and then we’ve flown seven to eight hours straight before.”

“You’re the one calling out everything, you’re keeping an eye on everything,” said Gomez. “At some point those guys on the ground are probably going to stop chasing them, but we don’t. We will keep following these guys until the wheels fall off.”

According to Morris, the North L.A. County pilots average about 10 calls for service a night, but that wasn’t always the case.

“It’s kind of slowed down right now. …These guys are dealing with a lot of report calls, so they don’t have a lot of time to go out and be proactive, get into chases and stuff,” said Morris. “But back in the day, you know eight to nine years ago, it was probably 18 to 20 calls a night for service.”

“It takes a toll on your body,” Morris added.

The average pilot spends approximately 1,000

hours in the air annually, and because they seemingly feel everything the same way the helicopter feels it, plus being in a fixed position for hours on end, as well as the previous injuries sustained during their careers, new or exasperated hip, knee and joint issues can be common, the two Aero personnel said.

Morris jokingly said he had one pilot that he described as an “old German Shepherd” due to the years of physicality he went through being a helicopter pilot.

But, according to the two men — with one piloting the aircraft and the other controlling the onboard GPS, night vision camera, search light and multiple radio scanner frequencies, among many other responsibilities — they switch up who’s in which seat during the week in order to break up the repetition.

What still surprises Gomez the most over his years as an Aero pilot?

“That it’s me flying a nearly $5 million helicopter and the county trusts me to fly it,” Gomez said jokingly. “We’ll switch up partners or change partners every three months, and every partner, especially the newer guys, they come up and are like, ‘Do you believe they’re trusting us with a $5 million helicopter?’”

But when asked why they go through the stress of daily operating a $5 million piece of equipment, or the competitive application process, or stress on their bodies, both respond that it’s all worth it.

“Like Pat was talking about earlier, it’s nice to be able to help the guys down on the ground,” said Gomez. 

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N O V E M B E R 28, 2021

N E W S F E AT U R E

Selling your home doesn’t have to be daunting

Depersonalization and decluttering of a space can easily make a difference in how potential buyers view a home. PHOTOS COURTESY LIZ TOLENTINO

By Jose Herrera Signal Staff Writer

P

eople move for various reasons — such as a new job opportunity, to be closer to family, a change in relationship status or a natural disaster — but whichever the case may be, some homeowners may find the process of selling their home to be a daunting task.

Selling a home can be complicated or confusing, so it’s important to have some idea about how to make the most out of stressful situation.

“It takes a village to sell a home. It’s a complicated process and you’ll need a leader,” said Liz Tolentino, a local Realtor at RE/MAX of Santa Clarita.

Define your goals

Tolentino, who has 16 years of experience, said there is a list of about five must-dos before a person puts their property on the market.

The first tip is setting a clear goal: Home sellers need to know why they are selling their homes because the reason will impact the time frame.

“Let’s say you are selling because you found a new job in Texas, and you have to be there by Jan. 1,” Tolentino said. “That means you have a set amount of time before you have to sell your home, pack all your belongings, get in a moving truck and get to another state.”

Numbers matter

The second tip is to crunch the numbers: understanding where the home seller is at in terms of their equity position – the value of a mortgaged property after deduction of charges against it.

“Analyze your numbers, which looks like knowing how much money you need to get out of the sale of your home to meet your goal – whatever that may be,” Tolentino said.

Home sellers should also understand how much they owe on their homes and how much their home is worth, so they can make a good deal on their homes.

Assemble your team

At this point, home sellers should be thinking about, if not already contacting, people who will help them secure a beneficial deal on their home, according to Tolentino. These people will include trade companies and the main component of that team will be a real estate agent.

“You want to hire somebody locally, has a lot of experience listing a property and selling homes, and you want to hire somebody that has a good reputation,” Tolentino said.

It’s in the eye of the beholder

Taylor and Dylan Foley are a wifeand-husband Realtor duo who own Foley Loaded Homes in Valencia.

They started their real estate business

two years ago and primarily work with individuals who are in law enforcement or emergency responders.

“You want the buyer to be able to come in and see the house for its max potential both in terms of shape, lighting, color, furniture and more,” Taylor said.

Dylan added that it’s critical to maintain, fix and replace high-priority areas to attract as many people as possible.

How to prep your home

Robert Lamoureux has 40 years of experience as a general contractor, and he has separate licenses in electrical and plumbing contracting.

He owns IMS Construction Inc. in Valencia.

He suggested homeowners begin to look at how well they present their homes on the outside first. Curb appeal is “huge” because the minute the person pulls up can either attract or repel potential buyers.

“You have to make sure that the exterior is well-groomed and, for a lack of a better term, fresh and clean,” Lamoureux said. “I wouldn’t put a lot of money into a home as you want to minimize the input of your money that you’re selling.”

A paint job on the exterior walls can go a long way, he added. The same principle applies to flooring, kitchen or bathroom renovations.

However, he recommends a conservative approach and that homeowners spend money on touching up and fixing high-priority areas that will affect a potential buyer’s decision.

Home sellers should focus on key areas such as ensuring the electrical outlets are working, the lights turn on when you flip the switch, and checking for leaks and that all the faucets are working, too.

“I’d say at least a month depending on if you’re going to job it out, especially with the trades being super busy now,” Lamoureux said. “So, at least four to six weeks, just to make sure everything is functioning and presentable.”

The final touches

The final tip for home sellers is to do any staging as necessary. Staging refers to the activity or practice of styling or furnishing a property for sale, according to Tolentino.

Home sellers should prioritize decluttering and depersonalizing their homes, according to Realtors. The goal is to create spaces where buyers can envision their future lives.

“We are the advisors to our sellers,” Tolentino said, “but the seller has to make the ultimate decision based upon what they feel is best for them.” 

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N E W S F E AT U R E

Old-age technology becomes new-age crime deterrent

By Signal Staff

A

s technology blends with do-it-yourself projects, more and more Santa Clarita Valley residents are taking a new approach in terms of keeping an eye on their homes.

And for a growing number of homes, people are taking matters into their own hands.

Small startup companies have turned the tables on traditional professionally installed security systems by innovating smaller and less cumbersome devices.

For most consumers, it began with a device mostly unchanged since it’s invention by American scientist Joseph Henry in 1831 — the electric doorbell.

Fast-forward 190 years, and now companies are locking horns in a battle to replace push-button chimes with gadgets one would expect in a “Jetsons” cartoon. Now, a multi-billion industry has shifted the task of securing houses from traditional brick-and-mortar companies and giving the option to homeowners of taking matters into their own hands.

From remotely accessible features like streaming high-definition video, motion detection, cloud recording and an intercom, each product has its strengths and drawbacks.

Curb appeal

Video doorbells are more commonplace and serve as an entry point to the do-it-yourself home security game, and have grown to become one of law enforcement’s most useful investigative tools.

“It’s definitely a good tool to install these systems whether its a surveillance camera or motion detection,” said Lt. Ignacio Somoano of the Santa Clarita Valley Sheriff ’s Station. “They do help in the long run.”

Somoano, the supervisor of the SCV station’s Detectives Bureau,

The Doorbell Pro is Ring’s latest, upgraded wired doorbell camera. It retails for $170 and includes color night vision. it also has a builtin Alexa greeting that can answer the door for you.

PHOTO COURTESY RING

confirmed sheriff ’s deputies commonly use home surveillance video to identify suspects committing crimes in the Santa Clarita Valley.

“We’ve had several successes,” the lieutenant said. “Patrol deputies will recognize people that have been arrested before just by looking at the video.”

Recognizing a rise in accessible surveillance footage, the station setup the email address SantaClaritaMedia @lasd.org for people to send video of crimes, Somoano noted.

Ultimately, each device serves as a crime deterrent by contributing toward the facade of residents being home when they’re not.

“People are more attentive and more likely to report a crime when it is taking place,” Somoano said.

Aided by the ability to remotely see and speak to someone who approaches a front door using a combination high definition camera and two-way intercom, homeowners can stay guard while away from their house.

But, the question remains — which product best serves households in

Video doorbells are more commonplace and serve as an entry point to the do-it-yourself home security game, and have grown to become one of law enforcement’s most useful investigative tools.

Santa Clarita? The answer mostly depends on a balance between the ecosystem you’re already invested in — i.e. your supporting gadgets, according to your comfort level with such items — and the one you’re destined to have.

We’ve broken down the top-three companies by popularity. Keep in mind, all three companies’ products share the same basic functionality like streaming video, duplex communication, motion detection and cloudbased recording; but they differ in the types of devices they offer.

Ring

Initially named Doorbot, Ring was founded in 2012 by businessman Jamie Siminoff and crowdfunded to the tune of $364,000. After declining a cash investment during an appearance on the television show “Shark Tank,” Siminoff rebranded the company as Ring and raised $5 million in sales.

Online shopping giant Amazon acquired the company for more than $1 billion in February 2018 to “accelerate Ring’s mission to reduce crime in neighborhoods,” according to a company press release.

Over the course of eight years, the company’s products have expanded past the video doorbell to include a full spectrum home security system, outdoor spotlight cameras, smoke and carbon monoxide alarms.

“The Ring product line, along with the Neighbors app, enable Ring to offer affordable, complete, proactive home and neighborhood security in a way no other company has before,” a Ring spokesperson said via email.

As part of a burglary-prevention program, the Los Angeles Police Department had partnered with Ring in 2015 to install video doorbells on 10 percent of homes in the Wilshire Park neighborhood. The area saw a 55% drop in home burglaries as a result of the project.

The city of Santa Clarita took note of that partnership and worked to forge its own cooperation by providing $100 subsidies to 500 residents toward discounting Ring doorbells as part of a plan to drive crime down.

Large home security systems can cost thousands of dollars, said Jerrid McKenna, assistant to the city manager.

“To give them that basic foundation so that they can feel secure feels very rewarding,” he said.

The demand was enormous, McKenna noted, adding the city and Ring plan to partner again in the future to offer additional subsidies.

Part of the equation is Ring relies on is the online networking and sharing of information between residents and law enforcement regardless of whether they own the device.

See HOME SAFETY, page 22

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N O V E M B E R 28, 2021

FROM THE CITY MANAGER

Get in the holiday spirit at The Cube

By Ken Striplin Santa Clarita City Manager

T LET’S SAVE WATER TOGETHER!

he winter holidays are right around the corner, which means that we will soon be celebrating with friends and family as we look toward the new year.

While we don’t usually have the chance to experience a “White Christmas” here in Santa Clarita, you can still enjoy the icy thrill of a winter wonderland at The Cube — Ice and Entertainment Center.

Lacing up your ice skates and testing your skills on the rink evokes the spirit of the holiday just as reading a timeless Christmas story, opening presents at your grandparents’ house or going caroling.

These holiday traditions are something we hold near and dear, and we are pleased that residents can skate into the season at one of the new facilities the City opened this year.

The Cube was rebranded and rehabilitated before being reopened to the community in April. Now residents of all ages can hit the ice any day of the week for public skating, which is available multiple times each day with evening sessions on Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

This is a fun, relaxing time to skate around the rink and is a great way to introduce your kids to skating and create family memories.

On Friday, Dec. 10, a giant Christmas tree will be set up on the smallest rink at The Cube called The Pond.

This festive addition to The Cube will prepare you for the yuletide sea-

son and provides a wonderful photo opportunity. The tree will stay up through the holidays, so be sure to check it out before it’s gone!

The Cube will also put on its inaugural holiday show on Saturday, December 11. This year’s show is based on “The Polar Express,” which tells the story of a young boy who takes a once-in-a-lifetime train ride to the North Pole. Along the way, he rediscovers the magic of Christmas and what it truly means to believe.

Those who are part of The Cube’s Skate School have been hard at work preparing their interpretation of this beloved story to perform for the community. Please show your support for these up-and-coming skaters by attending either of the two shows, which will begin at 12 p.m. and 5 p.m.

Tickets range from $15 to $25 per person, and seating is available for on-ice bleachers ($25), balcony tables ($20) or upstairs bleachers ($15). To learn more about the Polar Express show and see ticket information, please visit TheCubeSantaClarita. com/HolidayShow.

If you are interested in having your child participate in a future show, please connect with staff at The Cube about the Skate School program.

These are just some of the ways you can get into the holiday spirit at The Cube this year. I wish you and your family a happy and healthy season and hope to see you on the ice soon!

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. 

N O V E M B E R 28, 2021

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HANUKKAH

Tradition a major component of Hanukkah celebrations

T

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 wsome are quick to note Hanukkah is not one of the major Jewish holidays, Hanukkah 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. Miracu-

lously, 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 (MC) 

The meaning behind the menorah

T

he menorah is perhaps the most recognizable symbol of Hanukkah.

Displayed in homes, and often in windows, each year, the menorah is a nine-branched candelabrum that symbolizes Hanukkah and much more.

Menorahs have been part of the Jewish faith since ancient times. Isaiah 42:6 indicates that the menorah is a symbol of the nation of Israel, and its mission is to be a “light unto nations.” After being liberated from slavery in Egypt, the Jews were commanded by God to make the original menorah, which at the time featured seven branches. The seven arms were believed to refer to the seven days of creation. The menorah was lit every evening and cleaned every morning. The wicks were replaced and fresh, consecrated olive oil was put into the cups to keep the flame alive.

After the Second Temple in Jerusalem was destroyed and desecrated by the Romans, there remained only enough sealed, consecrated olive oil left to light the menorah for one day. Miraculously, the oil burned for eight days, giving the Jews enough time to make new consecrated oil. This became known as the Hanukkah miracle.

While the original menorahs were seven-branched, the Hanukkah menorah, or Chanukiah (Hanukkiah), became a nine-branched version lit only during the holiday. According to the Jewish holiday site Breaking Matzo, celebrants light a new candle or wick on each night of Hanukkah.

The ninth night, called the Shamash (“helper” or “servant”), is used to light all the other candles or oil lamps. To be kosher, the Shamash must be placed on a different level than the eight other candles.

After both temples were destroyed, a new tradition developed in which Jews did not replicate anything from the destroyed temples. As a result, menorahs used in many Jewish services, apart from Hanukkah, no longer had seven branches.

Six-branched menorahs became popular in some synagogues. However, the Jewish Virtual Library indicates that some rabbis have gone back to seven-armed menorahs for regular services because the modern ones are electrified and, therefore, cannot possibly be duplicates of the original Temple menorah.

Lighting the Hanukkah menorah gives celebrants the ability to embrace the holiness of the holiday and take a small part in Jewish history.

(MC) 

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N O V E M B E R 28, 2021

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

‘Encanto’ is enchanting with a bounty of catchy, new songs

history of the catalog, and a surefire contender for best animated feature of 2021.

‘Encanto’ With crisp and assured direction

1/2 (out of four) from Byron Howard and Jared Bush Walt Disney Animation Studios pres(with lead screenwriter Charise Casents a film directed by Jared Bush and tro Smith co-directing), a bounty Byron Howard and written by Bush of catchy new songs by the ubiquiand Charise Castro Smith. Rated PG tous treasure that is one Lin-Manu(for some thematic elements and el Miranda and fantastic voice work mild peril). Running time: 109 minfrom the ensemble cast, “Encanto” is utes. In theaters. a magical and warmhearted journey with lovely messaging about the he end credits for today’s importance of family, some genuineanimated films run for so ly funny set pieces and those stunlong that if you live within ning visuals that fill every corner of atres • Santa Clarita adsource@exhibitorads.com a mile orSignal two of your local the screen. If you could hug a movie, PHOTO COURTESY IMDB theater, you might make it home bep. 888.737.2812 f. 203.438.1206 this is the kind of movie you’d want fore all the production supervisors ly takes November 28-years. And in the case of the to hug. date: Sunday-Thursday, and effects animators and characWhereas so many Disney fairy tales vibrant, gorgeous, eye-popping, colter technical directors and environdelivery date: Tuesday, November 23, 2021orful at 9:56:06 AM CASCS_LEM1128feature ambitious and adventurous and, well, enchanting “Encanto,” ment-look supervisors and visual young characters who yearn to esyou can see the effort of every single effects artists and crowd/fix anima, 2021 cape the walls of their gilded palacindividual listed in the credits come tors and layout artists and lighting es or homes, “Encanto” is all about to full flourish on the big screen. Dis- the wonders INSIDE and around a and compositing artists et al. get ney’s 60th animated film is one of the particularly special household: the their due. most beautiful in the long and storied multistory casita occupied by three It takes a studio village. It usualgenerations of the Madrigal family. The candy-colored home is the centerpiece of a town nestled deep TM in the mountains of Colombia, and it’s a character unto itself, as the tiles ripple like dominoes and the bedroom doors are glowing, mystical entranceways to bedrooms occupied by 22500 Lyons Ave. info Line 310.478.3836 various family members with special gifts.

By Richard Roeper Signal Contributing Writer

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Meet the Madrigals:

• Abuela Alma (Maria Cecilia Botero) is the family matriarch, who was gifted with a continually glowing special candle during a time of great tragedy when she was a young mother — a candle that sits in a windowsill and is the source of all the magic within the house.

• Julieta (Angie Cepeda) can heal any ailments with her cooking, while Julieta’s sister, Aunt Pepa (Carolina Gaitan), controls the weather with her feelings. Cousin Dolores (Adassa) has super-hearing, while another cousin, Camilo (Rhenzy Feliz), is a mischievous shapeshifter.

• Julieta’s daughter Isabela (Diane Guerrero) is a classic animated beauty who makes flowers bloom everywhere, while Isabela’s older sister, Luisa (Jessica Darrow), has Thor-level strength.

Then there’s Julieta’s third daughter, Mirabel (Stephanie Beatriz), who is the heroine of our story and, in classic underdog-Disney fashion, is also the black sheep of the family, as she has no magic gift and has a propensity for getting in everyone’s way and messing things up, no matter how good her intentions. Abuela can’t hide her disappointment with Mirabel, Isabela is constantly Mean Girl-ing Mirabel, and everyone else pretty much ignores her or tells her to get out of the way.

One of the cool things about “Encanto” is how the townsfolk aren’t fearful of the Madrigals or assembling a mob to destroy this mysterious and supernaturally gifted family; it’s quite the opposite, as they depend on the Madrigals’ special talents to keep the village thriving, and enjoy flocking to the home for special occasions. It’s a wonderfully diverse, vibrant community where music and joy are the order of the day.

Until the inevitable darkness on the horizon.

When Mirabel is the only one to see cracks in the house (literally), indicating the candle could soon blow out and all the magic will be lost, things start to go terribly wrong, and of course, Mirabel is blamed and shunned. Still, she remains determined to save her family, even if they don’t appreciate her. In the meantime, we’re introduced to a key supporting player, John Leguizamo’s hilariously eccentric Uncle Bruno, who disappeared years ago and becomes a reluctant ally to his fellow outcast Mirabel.

From a flashback set to Miranda’s Spanish-language “Dos Oruguitas” to the rousing ensemble numbers “Welcome to the Family Madrigal” to “We Don’t Talk About Bruno” to the Mirabel/Isabela duet “What Else Can I Do?” to the anthemic “Colombia, Mi Encanto,” the songs in “Encanto” are infectious and instantly memorable. Blending just the right mixture of comedy, heartwarming family drama and thrilling adventures, this is one of my favorite movies — animated or otherwise — of the year. 

Copyright 2020 Chicago Sun-Times

N O V E M B E R 28, 2021

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 1 3

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.

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

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

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.

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

Sprinkle donuts with 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.

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N O V E M B E R 28, 2021

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

Santa Clarita — Get ready for WAR

T

he evolution of WAR began in 1969 … and WAR has been evolving ever since.

The band’s global popularity is a tribute to the timelessness of its music and

message.

Perhaps nothing epitomizes this truth greater than the fact that WAR has twice been honored by its hometown of Los Angeles, more than 20 years apart, for its music making positive contributions to the betterment of the community.

Monster hit songs include “Why Can’t We Be Friends,” “Slippin’ Into Darkness,” “The World Is A Ghetto,” “The Cisco Kid,” “Spill the Wine,” and more!

To date, WAR has yielded a motherload of chart gold and platinum, with a whopping 17 Gold, Platinum or Multi-Platinum awards.

See them live in concert at The Canyon Santa Clarita January 23. Tickets are available online though Ticketmaster, over the phone at (888) 6455006, or in person at the Canyon Santa Clarita box office. 

N O V E M B E R 28, 2021

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 1 5

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N O V E M B E R 28, 2021

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N O V E M B E R 28, 2021

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 1 7

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1 8 · S U N D AYS I G N A L

N O V E M B E R 28, 2021

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From “Our Farm” to Yours Wishing You and Your “Honey” a “Sweet” & Happy Holiday Season

N O V E M B E R 28, 2021

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 1 9

BOOKREVIEW

BookTrib’s Bites

Four great gift ideas for the holidays

‘Twisted Tea Christmas’

dramatic, narcissistic, elderly mother moves across the country to entrust her formerly-estranged daughter with the rest of her life? Fireworks fly, but can the two reconcile?

By Laura Childs

A

n attack on the host of a fancy tea party sends Theodosia Browning looking for answers in the latest entry in the New York Times bestselling series. Tea maven Theodosia and her tea sommelier, Drayton Conneley, are catering a Victorian Christmas party at a swanky mansion in downtown Charleston.

Drucilla Heyward, the hostess, is one of the wealthiest women in town.

As the champagne flows and the tea steeps, Drucilla secretly reveals to Theodosia that she is planning to give her wealth away to various charitable organizations. However, before she can make the announcement, Theodosia finds her crumpled unconscious in the hallway with a syringe sticking out of her neck.

On a lighter note, this book also includes delicious recipes and teatime tips!

‘Red Deception’

By Ed Fuller and Gary Grossman

CELEBRITYNEWS

Q What is the TV show from a few decades ago that had supernatural elements and was set in a small Southern town? It only lasted one season.

I feel like it would do really well if it had come out today instead.

— C.W. My first guess would have been “Midnight, Texas,” but that premiered on NBC in 2017. It starred Francois Arnaud (“The Moodys”) and was based on a series of books by Charlaine Harris of “True Blood” fame.

However, back in 1995, there was a show called “American Gothic” that better fits your timeline. It starred

‘If Not You, Then Who?: The Young Inventor’s Bundle’

By David & Emberli Pridham

Blending career insight with firsthand knowledge of global politics, authors Fuller and Grossman have once again drawn a chilling portrait of the fragile fault lines in Europe and the players poised to seize power.

Former intelligence officer Dan Reilly predicted terrorist attacks in a report years earlier. It was supposed to be top secret. And it was, until it was somehow exposed to unsavory characters who put it in the hands of foreign operatives. Now it’s the basis of plans for destruction.

Packed with action scenes and brimming with spies, sexpionage, counterspies and unlikely heroes, this riveting geopolitical thriller will have you guessing until the very last page and you will be continuously sur-

prised by every turn of events.

Gary Cole as a demonic sheriff of a small South Carolina town and Sarah Paulson as a ghost.

Lucas Black played her younger brother. GARY COLE OF NCIS The series was cre- MICHAEL YARISH/ CBS ated by Shaun Cassidy (yes, that Shaun Cassidy of the “Hardy Boys”) and was a hit with critics, but it was canceled by NBC after just one season. Incidentally, Cassidy has gone on to be quite a successful producer, having consulted on the current hit medical drama “New Amsterdam” as well as the long-running police drama “Blue Bloods.”

“American Gothic” was Paulson’s first major television role, but she’s now known for being producer Ryan Murphy’s muse in his “American Horror Story” and “American Crime Story” franchises. Cole, who recently joined the cast of “NCIS,” taking over for the legendary Gibbs (Mark

Harmon), told Entertainment Weekly magazine that Sheriff Buck is the role he’d most like to revisit.

‘The Burning Light of Two Stars’

By Laura Davis

This riveting memoir that reads like a novel is a gut-wrenching story of a mother and daughter who had every reason to never speak again yet were determined to find their way back into each other’s lives.

A vivid examination of the endurance of mother-daughter love, written by the author of the classic bestseller, The Courage to Heal, Laura Davis’ new memoir begs the reader to consider: Can you caretake a parent who betrayed you in the past? How do you open a heart that’s been closed for good reason? What happens when a

Q When is “This Is Us” coming back with new episodes? I heard this will be its last season. Say it isn’t so!

— R.B. “This is Us,” the show everyone loves to cry to, returns for its final episodes beginning Jan. 4. It gets a head start before the 2022 Winter Olympics airs on NBC in February. The last new episode of “This Is Us” was in May, where it jumped four years ahead with a shocking wedding.

Season six will consist of 18 episodes. According to the Hollywood Reporter, the show’s creator, Dan Fogelman, has promised that there will be “no looming questions when we get through the end of next season.

Everything will be resolved.”

Justin Hartley, who plays Kevin on “This Is Us,” has already landed a pilot for a new series, “The Never

Looking for the perfect holiday gift? If you like fun, informative and factual kid’s books like “The Magic School Bus,” then you’ll love the new STEM series, “If Not You, Then Who?,” a recent Amazon bestseller, which is now available as a special four-book set in a beautiful magnetic box for children ages 4 to 8. The books each offer different inventor themes: “The Girl in Pink Pajamas,” “Noah’s Treehouse,” “Let the Games Begin” and “Going Green,” along with a new “Inventor’s Journal.” The series aims to teach children about the inventions and patents in everyday life, inspiring them to create their own.

The books are fun to read for both adults and children.

BookBites is presented by BookTrib. com. 

Game” on CBS. It’s still in development, but it’s based on the novel of the same name by Jeffrey Deaver, so it looks promising.

Q I was so sad to see the character of Dean written out of “Station 19” recently. Why would they get rid of him? ­— D.C. According to Deadline, Okieriete “Oak” Onaodowan approached producers about leaving the show as Dean Miller at the end of season four, but the parting was amicable.

He simply wants to stretch his wings after five years of playing a firefighter on the Seattle-based drama. Prior to “Station 19,” Onaodowan played the dual roles of James Madison and Hercules Mulligan in the Broadway hit “Hamilton.”  © 2021 King Features Synd., Inc.

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N O V E M B E R 28, 2021

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ailing to plan for long-term care expenses may leave aging men and women with little or no assets late in life.

AARP says that the cost of longterm care continues to rise and the array of options can make it difficult for families to find the best, most affordable care.

It is estimated that the average monthly cost for care in a nursing facility is $9,247 for a semi-private room and $11,437 for a private room. That adds up to roughly $120,000 per year.

Individuals who only anticipate hiring a home health aide should know that such options cost an average $4,435 per month in California.

Retirement savings can quickly dry up when long-term care is required.

AARP estimates that the average monthly income from Social Security in 2021 is $1,543. The National Care Planning Council says that at least 60% of all individuals will need extended help during their lifetimes.

Ongoing care can last for many months or years. Long-term care needs, including assisted living and nursing home stays beyond a few months, may not be covered by federal health insurance programs, such as Medicare. As a result, it is up to individuals to find ways to finance their care.

Long-term care insurance

Long-term care insurance is one of the ways to offset costs of care for later in life. But many people are

unaware that this type of insurance exists.

A survey conducted by Leger Marketing for the Canadian Life and Health Insurance Association found that 74% of respondents said they haven’t included provisions for longterm care in their retirement plans.

Long-term care insurance is a safety precaution that can be purchased early in life to plan to help pay for expenses aging men and women may incur in their golden years.

New York Life Insurance says that policy holders will be reimbursed for qualified long-term care costs up to a maximum daily benefit amount.

Coverage varies, but policy premiums generally increase with the age of applicant.

Government aid

Government aid is available but qualifications vary and it is usually limited to those with financial hardships. Medicaid pays for the largest share of long-term care services in the United States, according to the Administration on Aging. But to qualify, one’s income must be below a certain level and the person must meet minimum state eligibility requirements.

Financing long-term care is something individuals must consider as they make their plans for the future.

It is a large expense that cannot go unaddressed even though the need for care might be in the distant future. (MC) 

N O V E M B E R 28, 2021

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 2 1

HOME

Tips to prep your home for holiday guests

#1 IN SALES 2019, 2020 & 2021 WE GET RESULTS THAT WILL MOVE YOU REALTY ONE GROUP SUCCESS

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ooler temperatures, outings to the Christmas tree farm, game nights and holiday feasts. Now that the holiday season is here, it’s time to prep your home for seasonal fun!

Whether you’re hosting a big or small group of family and friends this holiday season, decorating and decluttering around the house can make party prep easier and more enjoyable for everyone.

With that in mind, here are some top tips to create functional and stylish spaces that are easy to keep clean and tidy throughout the festivities.

Delightful décor

Make any room feel warm and welcoming with EasyLiner Removable Adhesive Shelf Liner by Duck Brand.

Decorating with laminate is an affordable way to add pops of color to a kitchen backsplash, reading nook or old side table.

Choose a print that matches your style and easily stick the laminate to smooth, flat surfaces for a fresh new look that will wow your guests.

Mudroom without messy floors

Preparing an area near your entryway for bags and shoes is a must when expecting visitors. If you have a bench with storage, add machine-washable liner to the cubby to keep shelves clean and dry.

Placing liner by the entrance of your home will also offer extra space to store muddy or wet shoes and stop salt and snow from tracking in the house. When guests leave, toss the

liner in the wash and reuse.

Spotless spaces for kids

All holiday gatherings need a space for kids to have fun and play together.

While setting up for arts and crafts, line the table with a clear, textured liner to prevent crayons, markers or glue from damaging surfaces. When it’s time to clean up, simply wipe the liner or toss it in the dishwasher.

Get your guest room ready

If you have family staying overnight, it’s time to get your guest room in shape. Dress up drawers and closet shelves with Smooth Top EasyLiner.

The grip bottom will keep the liner and items in place. Trendy patterns will elevate your home décor and guests will appreciate how clean and homey the space feels during their stay.

Bathroom basics

Once you’re done prepping the guest room, don’t forget about the guest bathroom. Keep styling stations and the bath clean and tidy with shelf liner and a bath mat. Duck Brand offers a variety of cushioned, machine-washable bath and shower mats for extra comfort and safety.

The Clorox mat is also designed to prevent the growth of mold and mildew on the mat.

Making these small updates around the house now will keep your mostused spaces clean and tidy to ensure family and friends are comfortable and happy over the holidays.

(SPT) 

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N O V E M B E R 28, 2021

N E W S F E AT U R E

HOME SAFETY

CNET’s Best Video Doorbell Cameras

Continued from page 9

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“In May of 2018, Ring launched the free Neighbors app as a way to expand our mission to reduce crime by creating a digital neighborhood watch that all local residents can participate in from their smartphone,” a Ring spokesperson said.

Ring’s Video Doorbells can be installed using existing powered-doorbell wiring. Homeowners can also opt to mount the device anywhere in range of their Wi-Fi network utilizing power from the device’s battery, which is designed to last an average 12 months.

The device can be paired with a separately purchased wireless chime. The accessory allows you place the chime anywhere in your home within range of the doorbell which means you’re not limited to located it in traditionally muffled or muted places like closets.

Arlo Technologies

Arlo Technologies is a home automation company that began as a division of Netgear in 2014.

It separated from that company in 2018.

The Arlo Essential Wireless video doorbell retails for around $200.

This version offers HD video with two-way audio, which has become a standard for the industry.

It also offers night vision, connecting to Wi-Fi and an 180-degree viewing angle.

Arlo works with Alexa, OK Google and SmarThings.

SimpliSafe

You’ve seen their commercials — “So easy you can do it blindfolded.” And, while you may think they are one of the newer companies in the home safety market, they’ve actually been around since 2006.

SimpliSafe is probably best know because of its commercials. However, it is a big player in the home video security system industry.

NET has tested major doorbells on the market for 2021 and this is their list of the ones “worth your money.”

Best Overall Arlo Video Doorbell Arlo’s wired Video Doorbell cam is • easy to install • performs well and • has competitive features and cloud storage fees starting at just $3 a month.

The Arlo Video Doorbell also features a built-in siren, two-way audio, motion detection zones and arm/disarm modes.

Arlo Technologies’ Essential Wireless video doorbell was named “Best Overall” by CNET. PHOTOS COURTESY ARLO TECHNOLOGIES

According to SimpliSafe, the company now protects more than a million homes in the United States and United Kingdom.

“We provide whole home protection against everything from intruders to fires, water damage and more. Our products are designed to disappear into your home, while blanketing it with protection,” the company says.

The system starts with their base station and from there you can purchase multiple add-ons.

One of their newest features is the outdoor camera that records motion for up to 10 seconds by default.

It uses your home Wi-Fi network and can integrate with Amazon Alexa and Google Home. 

Best without a Subscription Nest Doorbell “Google’s newest video doorbell costs $180 and is a breeze to set up, whether you’ve got doorbell wiring or not.

CNET was impressed with the free, out-ofthe-box smarts, including package, person, vehicle and animal alerts and three hours of event storage.

Best Value Ring Video Doorbell Wired The Ring Video Doorbell Wired is one of the best deals on the market: It’s a fully functional video doorbell, with 1080p resolution and the standard notification features, including motion alerts and person-only alerts.

The app is easy to use, and gives fairly quick push notifications when people approach the door. The Ring doorbell camera also offers two-way talk and reliable night vision and video recording with subscription.

Best for Apartment Dwellers Ring Peephole No drilling required if you have a peephole.

This camera system is entirely battery-powered. You’ll still be able to see through it like a regular peephole, but you’ll also be able to pull up a live video feed of your front door on demand and talk to any visitors. If you subscribe to Ring’s Protect cloud service, you’ll also be able to view saved Ring doorbell clips.

Best Wireless­ Arlo Essential Wire-Free Arlo’s $180 wireless doorbell is essentially identical to its wired version — other than the fact that this doorbell cam relies on a battery instead. Wireless doorbells tend to be pricier (the comparable Ring 4, for instance, is $200) but they offer convenient solutions to anyone without doorbell wiring.

The Essential Wire-Free Video Doorbell has a great image, smart notifications and a dependable design. The real standout features are the expansive 180-degree field of view and affordable $3-a-month subscription for 30 days of cloud storage and other perks.

— Courtesy CNET

N O V E M B E R 28, 2021

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 2 3

IT’S TIME TO

EAT LOCAL

SHOP LOCAL

STAY SAFE

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N O V E M B E R 28, 2021

PETS

Picture perfect pup: 5 easy dog photography tips

L

oyal, loving, quirky and kind — a dog brings so much joy to life. It comes as no surprise that pet parents take ample pictures of furry family members. Dogs are a favorite subject matter for amateur and professional photographers, and countless framed photographs and slews of social media images prove it.

From capturing those split-second cute poses to setting up the ideal seasonal image, dog photography is a big trend. A recent survey found that most dog owners (65%) admit to taking more photos of their dog than their significant other. However, getting the ultimate shot can be trickier than it seems, even for seasoned pet photographers.

No matter your experience with pet photography, there are some tips and tricks that can help you get the ideal pictures of your canine counterparts.

The photography experts at Adobe share some methods for taking pet

pictures that you’ll cherish for years to come.

Balance lighting

Good lighting is essential for any type of photography. If too much light is coming from behind, your

dog will appear darker. If too much light is in front, it may wash out your pup.

Keep in mind, fur absorbs light differently than skin, so experiment to see how changes in lighting impact the photograph. Natural light is typically best, not only for the resulting image, but also because many pets are sensitive to flash.

Use a fast shutter speed

No matter your pup’s personality, they’ll probably be moving in some manner as you try to photograph. If you’re using a tablet or smartphone, switch the settings for an action shot.

If you’re using a camera, opt for a faster shutter speed. This will help ensure that your pup’s excitement doesn’t turn into a disappointing photo when you review the image and it’s

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a big blur.

Know the dog’s personality

Some dogs adore affection and will melt for back scratches and belly rubs. Some pets go gaga for a game of fetch. Some just can’t resist their favorite treat.

Whatever the dog’s preferred ways to feel loved, use them to your advantage during your photo session. This will help make them feel comfortable, encourage cooperation and keep their attention.

Make some quick edits

A few simple edits after you take a picture can elevate the image significantly. When on the go, Lightroom presets allow you to seamlessly edit your photos in one click from your mobile device. Lightroom offers thousands of presets to choose from, and even more can be found in Lightroom Discover.

Trust the process

You may have an idea of what you want to create, but in the end it’s the pets who determine the context of the photo, which is part of the magic.

Remember to mix candid and posed photography to get a nice variety and just keep clicking. You never know what might be captured and the beauty of digital photography is that there is no limit to how many photos you can take. (BPT) 

N O V E M B E R 28, 2021

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 2 5

K I D S & FA M I LY

Donna’s Day: Creative Family Fun

Twist, shape and bake healthy bread bears

By Donna Erickson Signal Contributing Writer

B

aking bread is just plain fun when your preschoolers shape prepared dough into adorable bear shapes.

Toss in simple math along the way too, as your pint-size bakers divide the dough into halves, fourths and even sixths to form the bear’s arms, legs and snout. They’ll watch the dough rise before their eyes, and they’ll love “painting” the bears with an egg wash before you pop them in the oven.

Serve them warm, drizzled with some honey from a little pot for a memorable afternoon treat.

Ingredients for two 8-inch-tall bears: 1 loaf of prepared frozen bread dough 1 egg, beaten with 1 tablespoon of water

Raisins

Honey (optional)

7. Let them rise, covered with a damp towel or plastic wrap, for about 45 minutes in a warm place until doubled in size.

Here’s the fun: 1. Thaw the loaf of frozen bread dough for two 8-inch-tall bears.

Use it while it is still cold.

8. Remove covering and brush some egg mixture on top of the bears.

Bake at 350 F for 25 minutes or until golden brown. Cool on a cooling rack.

2. Cut the loaf in half. Set one of the halves aside for a few minutes while you form the first bear.

3. Cut the dough into two even pieces, and let your child roll one of the pieces into a ball with his hands. Set it on a large, greased cookie sheet for the body. Press it down to flatten slightly.

4. Cut the other piece in half. Roll one of the halves into a ball for the head and place it above the body.

You may need to pinch the two parts together.

5. Pick off a small bit from the remaining piece for the snout. Cut the rest into six even pieces. Roll all seven small pieces into balls.

Place a ball on the face for the snout, two ears at the top of the

TIP Make several bears, and dress them up with thin ribbons tied around their necks. Set in a basket as treats at a teddy bear party.

Preschoolers can learn fractions while they help make these bread bears.

head, 2 arms at the sides of the body, and 2 legs to the bottom of the body.

6. Make tiny slits in the dough and insert raisins for eyes and for a belly button. Repeat steps for second bear.

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.

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SOLUTIONS

PUZZLES

N O V E M B E R 28, 2021

CROSSWORD TIME

N O V E M B E R 28, 2021

Opinion

S U N D AY S I G N A L · 2 7

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

Provocative Climate Insight A recent study from The National Academy of Sciences provided some very provocative insight into the rate at which our planet is speeding toward a point of no return in the effort to slow down its ever-increasing warming trend. This new research has provided understanding of a leading meteorological variable controlling how much land burns in the western United States during a given fire season.

According to the study’s author Rong Fu, a climate researcher at UCLA, this variable is known as the vapor pressure deficit, which indicates how much moisture the atmosphere has pulled out of soil and plants, leaving the landscape to burn more easily. The warmer the weather, the more moisture is drawn from the earth, leaving behind a drier planet that becomes quite ready to go up in flames at the slightest provocation.

That leads us to contemplate what we can do about this propensity for our beautiful California to be ravaged by worsening wildfires that are devastating our environment, and costing billions of dollars and many lives to try to control.

This is a signal, a dire warning, that each of us must do as much as we are able to slow down the warming of our planet. We can do that through our personal actions, behavior and purchases, and by our support of government officials to enact proper laws and regulations that will further slow and reverse the warming that is currently progressing at full speed ahead.

The onus is upon us. Support businesses that support the planet, write to your congressional representatives, and ask them to help, write letters to newspapers, and wherever else that might have some influence.

Let’s cool down the planet together, one and all! It’s time to take action. This is something that every single one of us can do.

Sally Louise White Valencia Submit a Letter to the Editor

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

Mail to: Letters to the Editor, The Signal, 25060 Avenue Stanford, Suite 141, Santa Clarita, CA 91355.

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

Concerning Some Concerns

By David Hegg

I

t seems I’ve been collecting bits and pieces of concern over the past year and now is as good a time as any to share them. This column will address only one, but I’ve got a few more for future columns.

I’ve never before seen entities known as “school boards” achieve such a high level of notoriety. Back in the 1980s when I was involved with PTAs and school board members as a parent and vendor, these groups were made up of other parents whose values and presuppositions were held in common simply because they were the products of common sense.

Back in those days, school boards weren’t political outposts. The moms and dads who came together to think through the issues, plan the plans, and decide the decisions were agreed that the main thing was to keep the main things the main things.

And, by the way, the main things back then are still the main things today. First, school board members must take seriously their responsibility as those entrusted with the education of the children. As trustees they must realize they are accountable to those they represent for the education the students receive. Given that the largest percentage of parents use the public school system to educate their children, parents are those to whom board members will give an account.

Parents have every right to hold the board members accountable. They expect that those they’ve entrusted their children to will provide the basic, traditional subjects that have always provided the foundation for becoming a good citizen and a useful contributor to the common good.

But sadly, some school boards are deciding to overhaul what we all once considered the building blocks of education by inserting their own progressive values and opinions.

This is where we’ve run into trouble today. I recently read where one school district is introducing elements of racial equity into its mathematics curriculum. Really? Given that students in our country rank in the bottom third in mathematics among students in developed countries, maybe we should just teach math. And I would submit that simply teaching math well so that the next generation can think critically serves the children and their parents in the best way.

This kind of educational deconstruction is what happens when school boards forget their fiduciary responsibility to those who have entrusted their children to them and decide to insert their own political and social values into the school system.

And that’s where the second main thing comes in to play. Given that school boards are trustees, it is essential to remember whose trust they are to safeguard. Simply put, parents delegate some of the operational responsibility for their children’s education to the school board, which puts a fiduciary responsibility on every school board member to both respect and represent the voice of the parents. This is precisely where the guy who lost the governorship of Virginia demonstrated his ignorance. To insist that parents are unqualified to address the education of their children is politically foolish simply because it is fundamentally wrong.

A basic tenet of natural law is that parents are primarily responsible for the education of their children.

That’s how God planned it, and even those who don’t view life through a religious lens must admit that the family is the basic building block of an ordered, civilized society. That’s where it all starts.

Today, parents can make use of several educational options. But when they do choose to use public education, they do so without abdicating either their authority over their children or their responsibility for their education.

Sadly, some school boards both far and near have acted as though our children belong to them. They’ve decided they don’t represent we the parents and are going to educate and indoctrinate our kids with things both scandalous and harmful. But this is fundamentally wrong and it is up to parents to oppose this kind of thinking before it becomes a reality.

My advice to you parents who are using public school systems to educate your children is this: Recognize your responsibility as your child’s parent. He or she belong to you, and not to the school or school board. Then, find out what is happening at your child’s school. Go there. Ask to see the curriculum, especially in the areas where progressive values may be encroaching on your own personal beliefs and values. And by all means, speak up. Know who sits on your school board and find out what they think, and what they are proposing. Make your voice known, and do so intelligently, civilly, and with the respect and honor you yourself deserve from those who are, in a very real sense, your employees.

After all, if they work for you they have a great need to know what you want them to do.

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

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