Breast cancer is the most commonly occurring cancer in women across the globe. According to the World Cancer Research Fund International, there more than 2.26 million new cases of breast cancer in women in 2020. Such figures are sobering, but it’s important to recognize that breast cancer survival rates have improved dramatically in recent decades, providing hope to the millions of women who may be diagnosed with the disease in the years to come.
Various factors have helped to improve breast cancer survival rates and education is certainly among them. Women are their own greatest allies against breast cancer, and learning to spot its signs and symptoms is a great first step in the fight against this potentially deadly, yet treatable disease.
Knowing Your Body
The American Cancer Society urges women to take note of how their breasts normally look and feel. That knowledge is vital because it helps women recognize when something does not look or feel good to the touch with their breasts. Screening alone may not be sufficient, as the ACS notes that mammograms do not find every breast cancer.
Signs and Symptoms
When women are well acquainted with how their breasts look and feel, they’re in better position to recognize any abnormalities, which may or may not be indicative of breast cancer. The ACS reports that the following are some potential warning signs of breast cancer.
• A new lump or mass: The ACS indicates that this is the most common symptom of breast cancer. A lump or mass that is cancerous is often painless, but hard and has irregular edges. However, lumps caused by breast cancer also can be soft, round and tender. Some even cause pain.
• Swelling: Some women experience swelling of all or part of a breast even if they don’t detect a lump.
• Dimpling: The skin on the breast may dimple. When this occurs, the skin on the breast sometimes mimics the look of an orange peel.
• Pain: Pain on the breast or nipple could indicate breast cancer.
• Retraction: Some women with breast cancer experience retraction, which occurs when the nipple turns inward.
• Skin abnormalities: Breast cancer may cause the skin on the breast to redden, dry out or thicken.
Potential Warning Signs and Facts About Breast Cancer
A CASE OF BREAST CANCER IS DIAGNOSED BREAST CANCER IS THE MOST COMMON CANCER FOR WOMAN
A WOMAN DIES OF BREAST CANCER IN THE US
Noteworthy Statistics Underscore the Prevalence of Breast Cancer
Breast cancer affects millions of women and their family and friends every year. Each of those women has their own unique experience upon receiving a breast cancer diagnosis, and those journeys hopefully end with successful treatment. Because each woman’s breast cancer journey is unique, data regarding the disease only tells part of the story. But recognition of key breast cancer statistics is still important, as data can compel support for women fighting the disease and underscore how vital it is for young women to prioritize breast health.
• A 2017 study from the American Cancer Society found that roughly 42% of cancer diagnoses and 45% of cancer deaths in the United States are linked to controllable risk factors for the disease. Breast cancer is no exception in that regard, as the Breast Cancer Coalition Foundation points to studies that have shown as many as 50 to 70% of breast cancers can be prevented if women adopt lifestyle changes early enough.
• The ACS estimates that approximately 30% of postmenopausal breast cancer diagnoses are linked to modifiable risk factors such as diet and physical activity levels.
• The World Health Organization reports 2.3 million women across the globe were diagnosed with breast cancer in 2022. WHO data also indicates 670,000 women lost their lives to the disease in 2022.
• Swollen lymph nodes: Some women with breast cancer experience swelling of the lymph nodes under the arm or near the collarbone. The presence of any of these symptoms merits a trip to the doctor. Women with these symptoms should not immediately assume they have breast
• Breast cancer poses a greater threat to women’s lives in countries with a low Human Development Index (HDI), which is a metric used by the United Nations Development Programme to gauge a country’s average achievement in areas such as healthy life and standard of living. WHO data indicates one in 12 women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime and one in 71 women will die of the disease in countries with a high HDI. In countries with a low HDI, where access to medical care is more limited, one in 27 will be diagnosed with breast cancer and one in 48 will die from it.
• Five-year survival rates indicate that treatment is most effective when breast cancer is caught in its earliest stages. Data from the ACS indicates a 99% five-year survival rate for cancer discovered before it has spread beyond the place it started. When the cancer is considered regional, which the National Cancer Institute defines as cancer that has spread to nearby lymph nodes, tissues or organs, the five-year survival rate is 86%. The five-year survival rate for distant cancer, which indicates it has spread to distant parts of the body, is 30%.
• Survival rates differ considerably between Black women and White women diagnosed with breast cancer. According to the ACS, the five-year survival rate for Black women between 2012-2018 was 83% compared to 92% for White women during that same period.
(MC)
cancer, as the ACS notes that various symptoms of breast cancer also are indicative of non-cancerous conditions that affect the breasts. Only a physician can diagnose breast cancer, which underscores the importance of reporting symptoms to a doctor immediately. (MC)
Essential Tips to Support Your Immune System
The immune system — made up of organs, tissues, cells and proteins — is your body’s personal defense system against bacteria and viruses, helping ward off illness and infection. Because of the vital role it plays in keeping you healthy, it’s important to take steps to keep your immune system strong. Consider these healthy habits that can go a long way toward supporting your immune system and maintaining your health.
Practice Proper Hygiene
Good hygiene — and avoiding close contact with people who are sick — is a key component of maintaining a healthy immune system. Practices such as washing your hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds; covering your nose and mouth with a tissue or your elbow when coughing or sneezing; and disinfecting oft-touched objects and surfaces like doorknobs, light switches, counters and remote controls can help remove germs and reduce their spread.
Consider a Nutrient-Rich Supplement
The body requires many essential nutrients to form the foundation of a healthy immune system. Consider adding a nutrient-rich supplement like Airborne, which has been reformulated with seven key essential nutrients — vitamins A, C, D and E; zinc; manganese; and selenium.
Available in effervescent tablets and chewable gummies, with flavors varying from Zesty Orange to Very Berry and Citrus, the addition of vitamin D and increased levels of zinc mean the improved formula provides the most essential nutrients of any Airborne immune-supporting supplement.
Maintain a Healthy Diet
Because a poor diet can weaken the immune system, according to research published in “Science Direct,” giving your body the nutrients it needs is
key to helping your immune system thrive. Including a variety of fruits and vegetables, which are rich in antioxidants and vitamins, as well as whole grains, lean proteins and healthy fats as part of your meals can help strengthen your immune system. Also remember to drink plenty of water to stay hydrated and limit processed foods, sugary snacks and beverages high in added sugars that can weaken your immune system and have a negative impact on your health.
Engage in Regular Physical Activity
Not only can maintaining a regular exercise routine help build muscle and improve endurance, it helps improve circulation, too, which allows immune cells to move more freely through the body. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate or 75 minutes of vigorous exercise per week, such as brisk walking, cycling, swimming or dancing. This activity also promotes the production of endorphins and can help reduce stress, further benefiting to your immune system, according to the Mayo Clinic. Just be sure not
to push yourself too hard, as excessive exercise can have the opposite effect and put your body under more physical stress.
Get an Appropriate Amount of Sleep
Sleep and immune health are intertwined. In fact, inadequate or poor-quality sleep can lead to a higher susceptibility to illness, according to research by the Sleep Foundation. During sleep, your body repairs and rejuvenates itself, so aim for the expert-recommended 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night. Establish a regular sleep schedule by going to bed and waking at the same time each day, even on weekends, and create a relaxing routine to signal to your body it’s time to wind down. This may include limiting screen time an hour before bed, reading or practicing relaxation techniques. A comfortable, cool and dark sleep environment can also improve the quality of your sleep.
Manage Stress Levels
Stress, both physical and mental, can weaken your immune system and lead to a higher risk of infection, particularly if it leads to sleep disturbances, reduced water intake, less frequent exercise or unhealthy eating habits. To effectively manage stress, practice relaxation techniques such as meditation, yoga or deep breathing and prioritize self-care through activities you find relaxing like reading, listening to music, journaling, exercising or spending time outdoors.
Find solutions to help support your immune system at schiffvitamins.com. (Family Features)
Thrills, Chills, Halloween Theme Parks
By Michele E. Buttelman Signal Staff Writer
Like Christmas at Costco, Halloween at Southern California’s theme parks arrives earlier and earlier each year.
Fright Fest Extreme
Six Flags Magic Mountain, 26101 Magic Mountain Pkwy, Valencia 91355
Info www.sixflags.com/magicmountain
After the merger of Six Flags and Cedar Fair, Magic Mountain and Knotts Berry Farm are now under the same corporate umbrella.
All guests 15 years old or younger must be accompanied by a chaperone age 21 or older after 4 p.m. to close on Fright Fest Extreme nights.
Fright Fest Extreme, which debuts this year, is California’s largest haunt with 11 haunted houses and nine scare zones. The haunted houses require a separate Haunted Attractions Pass.
New haunts include several based on Hollywood horror film or TV franchises including Stranger Things, The Conjuring Universe, SAW 20th Anniversary, Trick ‘r Treat and Army of the Dead. Also new is Aftermath: Nocturnal Hunt.
New Scare Zones include Underworlds of Oz, Plaza de la Muerte and Grimmlore Ridge.
Guests to the “Happiest Place on Earth” can expect the Main Street Pumpkin Festival with hundreds of hand-carved pumpkins and the return of Haunted Mansion Holiday.
Inspired by “Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas,” Haunted Mansion Holiday offers at the center of the ballroom scene a gingerbread house with a giant gingerbread zombie. This year’s display showcases the gingerbread zombie on an operating table made of gingerbread, licorice jumper cables, sugary gumdrop bolts, hard-coated chocolate candy rivets and peppermint lightning bolt coils.
The Happiest Haunts Guided Tour will offer guests a two-hour guided tour around Disneyland Park which includes chilling stories, thrilling
experiences, Lightning Lane entry and preferred viewing for Halloween Screams, a nighttime spectacular.
Oogie Boogie Bash
Disney California Adventure Park
Info bit.ly/3XL04b6
Beginning in the late afternoon, Guardians of the Galaxy — Mission: BREAKOUT! transforms into Guardians of the Galaxy — Monsters After Dark. The Collector’s Fortress goes dark, alarms sound and special lighting alerts guests something inside has gone awry. Meet Rocket and enjoy the chaos that ensues as he works to rescue his friend Groot.
Visit Lightning McQueen, Mater and the “car-actors” of Cars Land as the town transforms from Radiator Springs into Radiator Screams.
Two family-friendly attractions transform as Mater’s Junkyard Jamboree becomes Mater’s Graveyard JamBOOree and Luigi’s Rollickin’ Roadsters becomes Luigi’s Honkin’ Haul-O-Ween.
Plaza de la Familia commemorates everlasting love and familial bonds with rich experiences inspired by the spirit of Día de los Muertos. Enjoy characters and music from the film “Coco,” storytelling, music, crafts, through Nov. 2.
Knott’s Scary Farm or Family Friendly Knott’s Spooky Farm
Knott’s Berry Farm
8039 Beach Blvd., Buena Park 90620
Info www.knotts.com; select days
Enjoy Halloween fun by day at Knott’s Spooky Farm, the annual family-friendly Halloween celebration.
Join Charlie Brown, Snoopy and friends for Spooktivities with a host of games, music, spooky storytelling and more for ghouls of all ages. Knott’s Spooky Farm in the daytime, Thursdays through Sundays, Sept. 26 through Oct. 31.
Kids can participate in a trick-or-treating experience in the spooky streets of Ghost Town, where they will show off their festive Halloween costumes as they collect tasty treats.
Guests can also visit the Livery Stable and Creepy Critters of Calico, spiders, bugs and more await at the Creepy Critters Corral.
Ghouls of all ages are encouraged to show off
their Halloween costumes at Snoopy’s Spooktacular Costume Party.
The Bob Baker Marionette Theatre Show returns with their Halloween-themed show at Birdcage Theatre.
With more than 50 years of nightmares, scares and thrills, Knott’s Scary Farm includes 10 haunted mazes, five scare zones, creepy attractions, sinister shows and more than 1,000 horrifying creatures lurking in the fog and hiding across every inch of the park.
Halloween Horror Nights
Universal Studios Hollywood, 100 Universal City Plaza, Universal City 91608
Info www.universalstudioshollywood.com; Not recommended for children under 13.
Universal Studios Hollywood Halloween Horror Nights feature eight new haunted houses, a new Terror Tram experience, scare zones and daring live entertainment.
This lineup of haunted houses is inspired by the biggest names in horror:
“The Weeknd: Nightmare Trilogy,” “A Quiet Place,” based on the film of the same name will incorporate American Sign Language into a haunted house for the first time, “Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire” and “Insidious: The Further.”
“Universal Monsters: Eternal Bloodlines” is an all-female monsters led haunted house inspired by Universal Pictures’ classic monsters.
Other haunts include:
“Texas Chainsaw Massacre: The Legacy of Leatherface,” “Monstruos 2: The Nightmares of Latin America” and “Dead Exposure: Death Valley.”
“Terror Tram: Enter the Blumhouse” takes fans on a close encounter with characters from horror films including “M3GAN,” “The Black Phone,” “Freaky,” “The Purge” and “Happy Death Day.”
“The Purge: Dangerous Waters,” is a live stunt show.
Scare Zones include “Luchadores Monstruosos,” “Skull Lordz,” “Chainsaw Punkz” and “Murder of Crowz.”
Few People Know About This Iconic Piece Of History
By Natasha Kayes
Only in California
We are always saying that there is so much to discover here in Southern California. The sort of mind-blowing thing is how many incredible things go unnoticed every single day.
In fact, the attraction I am about to describe is one I have literally stood across the street from and never saw. Hiding in plain sight across from a popular art museum is a fascinating piece of world history — a chunk of the Berlin Wall in Los Angeles.
The Wende Museum of the Cold War is an archive, a cultural center, and an art museum with exhibitions focused on the lives of those affected by the Cold War era. The Wall Project, also called The Wall Along Wilshire, is an installation by the museum in commemoration of the 20th anniversary of the fall of the Berlin Wall.
The museum itself is small and goes under the radar in the city and the wall segments even more so, probably for a couple of main reasons.
Though the 10-segment portion of the Berlin Wall is openly displayed on one of the busiest streets, Wilshire Boulevard, most people don’t see it unless someone points it out (like one reviewer who said he learned about it from a docent at the LACMA museum across the street.) But why is it so unnoticed?
First of all, a concrete wall full of street art and graffiti does not exactly stand out as special in a city like LA. Second, the wall is actually not at the museum! It is sitting in front of an office building, next to a gym.
Standing in front of the popular “Urban Lights” display at LACMA and looking to the left, you can see it — if you know it’s there.
This is the longest stretch of the famous Wall in the world, outside of Berlin itself. It was painted by several Los Angeles artists and a French muralist who painted on the wall in 1984 in Berlin. This section represents the part of the Berlin Wall that came to be known as the East Side Gallery.
The last four sections of the wall have original graffiti from Germany when it stood as a separation between the East and the West.
The Wende Museum is actually about five miles away, but you can learn all about the wall from the Historical Marker sign on the first section facing the street.
Behind The Wall is a collection of murals on the “east side” of the original wall in Berlin — the side facing the so-called East German death strip. This side of the wall was never painted in Germany, but now features murals by three street artists from LA, London, and Berlin.
Thousands of locals and visitors pass by this spot without ever realizing there are 10 segments of Germany’s Berlin Wall in Los Angeles.
“Keep your eyes on the stars, and your feet on the ground” — Theodore Roosevelt
This quote by Theodore Roosevelt reflects the guiding principles behind the Santa Clarita 2025 Strategic Plan. This mindset has driven our City’s efforts to balance aspirations with practical steps, ensuring that the goals we set are not only ambitious but also achievable. Our approach involves setting a clear vision, exploring innovative solutions and anticipating the needs of our community, all while prioritizing what matters most to our residents.
ity of life. Through these projects, we learn more about our community’s needs and desires, and can adapt future plans accordingly. The Central Park Buildout revealed the popularity of exercise stairs and inspired a second set as part of the David March Park expansion. The Canyon Country Community Center has quickly become a popular place for afterschool programs and classes, underscoring the importance of the new Valencia Community Center.
Since its inception in 2020, the Santa Clarita 2025 Strategic Plan, also referred to as SC2025, has served as a crucial roadmap for the City, directing our resources and efforts towards achieving significant milestones. This plan has helped us maintain our commitment to providing top-tier services and facilities for the residents and visitors of Santa Clarita. By aligning our current projects with future initiatives, we have ensured the sustainability of our infrastructure and the continued excellence of our municipal services.
Among the significant accomplishments started in our SC2025 plan were the opening of the Canyon Country Community Center, the Vista Canyon Multi-Modal Center and the Sand Canyon Trail Bridges. Additionally, we’ve made significant progress in enhancing traffic circulation, supported the construction of Bridge to Home’s permanent homeless shelter and finished the Central Park Buildout. Each of these projects has added critical new amenities and improved our residents’ overall qual-
Be on the lookout for upcoming SC2025 projects. These exciting projects include the construction of The Rink Sports Pavilion which will expand the George A. Caravalho Santa Clarita Sports Complex, turning it into a premier recreational hub for our community. The planned expansion of David March Park will add an impressive eight acres, featuring a state-ofthe-art baseball field with spectator seating, a new restroom building and a parking lot. The existing park will also see upgrades, including a new basketball court, an exercise equipment area, a shade canopy and a picnic pavilion. Additionally, the Valencia Community Center’s completion will provide a new venue for various classes and programs. It will also introduce the City’s first indoor pool, allowing for yearround aquatic activities.
As we approach the final year of the SC2025, we look forward to the creation of our next Strategic Plan. Building on the successes of the past five years, this new plan will continue to guide our City’s development, ensuring that Santa Clarita remains a place where residents can live, work and play. For more information regarding the Santa Clarita 2025 Strategic Plan, please visit SantaClarita.gov/ SC2025.
Ken Striplin is the City Manager for the City of Santa Clarita and can be reached at kstriplin@santaclarita. gov.
ENTERTAINMENT
‘McAvoy Gives a Raging, Screen-Gobbling Performance’
By Richard Roeper
Signal Contributing Writer
‘Speak No Evil’
(out of four)
Universal Pictures presents a film written and directed by James Watkins, based on a screenplay by Christian Tafdrup and Mads Tafdrup. Rated R. In theaters.
The Danish director Christian Tafdrup’s “Speak No Evil” (2022) was a twisted and depraved psychological horror film filled with sharp and stinging social satire, capped with an unforgiving resolution that ranks with “Se7en” (1995), “Requiem for a Dream” (2000) and “The Mist” (2007) as among the bleakest endings of the last three decades. It took just two years for Blumhouse Productions (“The Purge,” “Get Out,” “The Black Phone” et al.) to give us an American remake, with writer-director James Watkins deliv-
ering a film that mirrors the original for much of the time before smoothing out some of the more brutal edges. (It’s reminiscent of how the 1993 American remake of “The Vanishing” softened the shock factor of the 1988 French-Dutch film of the same name.)
American ex-pats Louise and Ben Dalton (Mackenzie Davis and Scoot McNairy) are on holiday in Italy with their anxious 11-year-old daugh-
T h e S u b S Ta n C e E Sun: 10:00 1:00 4:00 7:00; Mon & Tue: 1:00 4:00 7:00; Wed: 1:00 7:00; Thu: 1:00 4:00 7:00
got to tr y th s new product It changed my life
T r a n S f o r M e r S o n e B Sun: 10:20 1:30 4:30 7:30; Mon to Thu: 1:30 4:30 7:30 The untold or gin stor y of Optimus Prime and Megatron, better known as sworn enemies, but once were fr ends
W h i p l a S h - 10T h a n n i v e r S a ry r e r e l e a S e E Sun: 10:10 1:00 4:10 7:10; Mon to Thu: 1:00 4:10 7:10
Andrew Ne man is an ambitious young jazz drummer single -m nded in his pursuit to r se to the top of his elite east coast music conser vator y
S p e a k n o e v i l E 1:20 4:15 7:10
A family is invited for a weekend at an idyllic countr y house A dream holiday that warps into a snarled psychologica nightmare
T h e C r i T i C E Sun: 10:15 AM
A power fu London theater crit c lures a struggl ng ac tress into a blackmail scheme with deadly consequences
T h e k i l l e r’S G a M e E Sun: 1:20 7:20; Mon: 1:20 PM; Tue: 1:20 7:20; Wed & Thu: 1:20 PM
Top h tman Joe Flood is diagnosed with a term nal illness, he decides to take matters nto his own hands - by taking a hit out on himself
W i l l & h a r p e r E 4:20 PM
Will Ferre l finds out his close friend of 30 years is coming out as a trans woman
b e e T l e j u i C e b e e T l e j u i C e C Sun: 10:20 1:30 4:20 7:30; Mon to Thu: 1:30 4:20 7:30
Beetlejuice is back! After an unexpec ted family tragedy, three generations of the Deetz family return home to Winter River
r e aG a n C Sun: 10:00 1:10 4:00 7:00; Mon to Thu: 1:10 4:00 7:00 From dusty small-town roots, to the glitter of Holly wood, and then on to command ng the
ter, Agnes (Alix West Lefler), who can’t go anywhere without clutching her “worry bunny” stuffed animal. They’re befriended by the garrulous but charismatic Paddy (James McAvoy) and his wife, Ciara (Aisling Franciosi), along with a son they call Ant (Dan Hough), who is about Agnes’ age and cannot speak due to a congenital disorder. The two families hit it off, with the Daltons becoming a bit intoxicated by the ways in which Paddy and Ciara unapologetically reach out and grab life with gusto. They take them out of their comfort zone. They’re fun.
You know how you meet some people on vacation, and you have this instant connection, and you promise to stay in touch and see each other again, even as you realize that’s probably never going to happen because, after all, they’re really strangers? Well. The Dalton family actually accepts Paddy and Ciara’s invitation to stay at their country home in west England, despite Louise’s initial misgivings. Ben and Louise are going through a rough stretch, with Ben having lost his job and Louise now resenting Ben for uprooting the family. Maybe this excursion will help ease tensions and give them a chance to hit the reset button.
We often talk about how even the best horror movies usually depend on some pivotal scenes where ostensibly smart people do really dumb things. “Speak No Evil” embraces that trope, to darkly comedic effect, from the moment the Daltons arrive at the sprawling, working organic farm and are greeted with almost too much enthusiasm by Paddy and Ciara. Despite the spaciousness of the house, Agnes is to sleep on a shabby
mattress on the floor of the tiny room she’ll share with Ant. The bedsheets are stained in the guest bedroom for Ben and Louise. Even though Paddy knows Louise is a vegetarian, he makes a big deal over the prized goose he has killed and cooked for dinner, and he insists Louise take the first bite — and she accommodates so as not to offend.
Even more troubling is the way Paddy treats Ant, with behavior that borders on physical and verbal abuse and starts to cross that line. Alarm bells are going off, but Ben and Louise keep hitting the snooze button. Wake up, people! You’re in the middle of a slow-build horror story, and you need to get in your Tesla and take your daughter far away from this place, and don’t look back.
Malcolm Gladwell’s book “Outliers” presents the theory that a number of plane crashes involving certain cultures have been caused at least in part by “mitigated speech” in the cockpit, i.e., co-pilots being overly deferential and polite, only hinting at problems or hedging their assessments, so as to avoid appearing insubordinate or confrontational. This is how Louise and Ben comport themselves during that maddeningly tense slow build before all hell breaks loose. They defer to Agnes and in particular, Paddy, again and again, choosing to ignore warning signals, chalking up the rude and domineering actions of their hosts to cultural differences. It is Polite Society gone bonkers.
McAvoy gives a raging, screen-gobbling performance as a self-appointed alpha male who always seems on the verge of madness. (You’ll never hear the Bangles’ “Eternal Flame” the same way again.) Davis shines as Louise, who often has to take command of the moment because Ben is such an indecisive mope.
“Speak No Evil” eventually goes full-on with the familiar horror movie blood-spattering, but the social satire in that well-executed buildup is the real strength of the film. Ben and Louise are so pliable, we can’t but feel that when they finally speak up, it might be too late. Copyright 2024 Chicago Sun-Times
PHOTO COURTESY IMDB
Social media frequently touts weight loss trends and solutions. However, there’s another aspect to healthy eating that’s underappreciated but critical for overall wellness — gut health.
The body contains approximately 40 trillion bacteria, most of which are found in your gut, according to “Molecular Science.” The right balance of these bacteria is the key to good gut health.
Keeping your digestive system on track plays an important role in overall well-being, including immune health and mental health, according to “Clinical Practice.” When there is a gut bacteria imbalance, many people experience discomfort or digestive issues.
To help improve and maintain gut health - and your overall wellness — consider these tips from Mia Syn, MS, RDN, and Chobani:
Get a dose of probiotics Probiotics are live microorganisms that provide health benefits when consumed. They aid digestion and help maintain a healthy balance between good and bad bacteria.
Focus on fiber Fiber helps keep digestion running smoothly. One type of fiber, prebiotics, may be especially beneficial because they help nourish and support the growth of good gut bacteria to create a balanced and healthy microbiome.
Power up with protein While protein is not directly involved in nourishing gut bacteria, it provides essential amino acids and other nutrients that contribute to a healthy gut and overall digestive function. Protein is essential for the repair and main-
tenance of the gut lining, digestive enzyme production, efficient gut motility and more.
Options like Chobani Zero Sugar Drinks (not a low-calorie food) provide 10 grams of protein per 7-ounce serving, plus billions of probiotics. Available in four flavors — Mixed Berry, Peaches & Cream, Strawberry Cheesecake and Milk & Cookies - the drinks are perfect while on-the-go or can be used as an ingredient in recipes like this Protein-Powered Chia Pudding 4 Ways. Sweetened with only natural sugar alternatives, free of lactose and preservatives, these drinks contain 0 grams total sugar, are 50 calories and are made using only natural, non-GMO ingredients. Find more recipes and solutions to support gut health at Chobani.com.
(Family Features)
Protein-Powered Chia
Pudding 4 Ways
Prep time 15 minutes
Servings 1 per flavor
Mixed Berry Blast
1 Chobani Zero Sugar Mixed Berry Drink
3 tablespoons chia seeds
2 teaspoons pure maple syrup
1/4 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
1 cup mixed berries (blueberries, raspberries, blackberries or chopped strawberries)
Peaches and Cream Dream:
1 Chobani Zero Sugar Peaches & Cream Drink
3 tablespoons chia seeds
2 teaspoons manuka honey
1/4 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
1 peach, chopped
1 tablespoon sliced almonds
Strawberry Cheesecake Delight
1 Chobani Zero Sugar Strawberry Cheesecake Drink
3 tablespoons chia seeds
2 teaspoons pure maple syrup
1/4 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
1 cup chopped strawberries
2 tablespoons low-sugar granola
Milk and Cookies Madness
1 Chobani Zero Sugar Milk & Cookies Drink
3 tablespoons chia seeds
2 teaspoons pure maple syrup
1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder
1/4 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
2 teaspoons cacao nibs
2 teaspoons chopped hazelnuts
To make Mixed Berry Blast In small bowl, use fork to whisk mixed berry drink, chia seeds, maple syrup and vanilla extract. Let mixture sit 10 minutes to thicken then stir to distribute seeds. Stir in 1/2 cup berries and transfer to serving glass. Top with remaining berries.
To make Peaches and Cream Dream In small bowl, use fork to
whisk peaches and cream drink, chia seeds, honey and vanilla extract. Let mixture sit 10 minutes to thicken then stir to distribute seeds. Stir in half the peaches and transfer to serving glass. Top with remaining peaches and sliced almonds.
To make Strawberry Cheesecake Delight In small bowl, use fork to whisk strawberry cheesecake drink, chia seeds, maple syrup and vanilla extract. Let mixture sit on 10 minutes to thicken then stir to distribute seeds. Stir in 1/2 cup strawberries and transfer to serving glass. Top with remaining strawberries and granola.
To make Milk and Cookies Madness In small bowl, use fork to whisk milk and cookies drink, chia seeds, maple syrup, cocoa powder and vanilla extract. Let mixture sit 10 minutes to thicken then stir to distribute seeds. Transfer to serving glass and top with cacao nibs and chopped hazelnuts.
QWhy did Disney+ cancel “The Acolyte”? I thought it was supposed to be the next big thing.
— A.O.
AYou’re correct in that there was a lot of buzz surrounding the newest series in the “Star Wars” universe, but unfortunately, it didn’t translate into ratings. The people who did watch the show praised it, especially Manny Jacinto’s performance as the Stranger. Alas, the finale of the first season became its last when the numbers just weren’t up to Disney’s expectations.
QWhen does the new “Matlock” series that stars Kathy Bates release? Also, is her character related to the original Matlock, played by Andy Griffith?
— C.U.
AIn the original series, Andy Griffith played a sharp criminal defense attorney named Ben Matlock. The upcoming series of the same name, starring Kathy Bates, is a reboot with a twist. Her character, also an attorney, is named Madeline Matlock, but there’s no relation to Griffith’s character.
According to USA Today, the show’s executive producer Jennie Snyder Urman (“Jane the Virgin”)
BookTrib’s Bites
The Bucharest Legacy
By William Maz
In this second of the multi-awardwinning spy thriller series, CIA agent Bill Hefflin is back in Bucharest— immersed in a cauldron of spies and crooked politicians.
The CIA is rocked when a KGB defector reveals there is a KGB mole inside the Agency. They learn the mole’s handler is a KGB agent called Boris. Hefflin recognizes that name — Boris is the code name of Hefflin’s longtime KGB asset.
If the defector is correct, Hefflin realizes Boris must be a triple agent, and his supposed mole has been passing false intel to Hefflin and the CIA. This makes Hefflin the prime suspect as the KGB mole inside the Agency.
Hefflin returns to Bucharest to find Boris and expose the mole. He finds spies, crooked politicians, and a country controlled by the new oli-
says that she wanted to “write about how older women are overlooked in society.” She explained, “I wanted the audience to enjoy being shocked by the underestimation.”
Also similar to the “Matlock” we loved back in the ‘80s, the 2024 series features a new case that keeps you guessing the whole week. Madeline Matlock is “a fish out of water [and] a mastermind,” according to Snyder Urman. “Just because you’re older doesn’t mean you can’t be a bad b*tch,” she emphasized.
Supporting Bates is a stellar cast that includes Beau Bridges (“Lessons in Chemistry”), Skye P. Marshall (“Good Sam”), and Jason Ritter (“A Million Little Things”). “Matlock” will have a sneak preview of its first episode on Sept. 22 on CBS and will continue on in its regular time slot of Thursdays at 10 p.m. ET, beginning Oct. 17.
QWhen is the last episode of “The Talk”? I thought it was canceled, but I heard it’s coming back this fall with new episodes.
— S.I.
garchs, all of whom want to find Boris. But Hefflin knows a secret: Boris is dead.
A Grain of Hope
By Melissa Cole
Thirteen-year-old Oksana Kovalenko leads a simple life with her family in the rolling fields and rustic charm of her small farming village in the Ukraine. That is, until the Soviet Union takes power and her world is turned upside down.
As increasing authoritarianism and threats of land and food confiscation loom, Oksana fights to protect her loved ones from hunger and the loss of everything they hold dear. Threat-
AYes, CBS announced that the daytime talk show was being canceled after 15 years, but fortunately, it will include one last season of new episodes this fall before its “celebratory send-off” in December. These new live shows air weekdays, with returning hosts Sheryl Underwood, Natalie Morales, Jerry O’Connell, Akbar Gbajabiamila and Amanda Kloots. The show was created in 2010 by Sara Gilbert (“Roseanne”), and she hosted along with Leah Remini, Holly Robinson Peete, Julie Chen Moonves, and Sharon Osbourne.
In a surprising turn of events, it’s reported that a new daytime soap will take over the show’s time slot next January. (“The Talk” originally took the place of the long-running CBS soap “As the World Turns” after it was canceled in 2009.) Created by Michele Val Jean (who has written for “The Bold and the Beautiful”), “The Gates” will center around an upper-class African-American family living in a gated community.
ened with being labeled an Enemy of the State, her family and friends endure persecution. She watches in horror as her village is reduced to starvation and despair. She then joins an underground movement that plans covert operations to feed starving villagers.
Oksana grows from a hopeful schoolgirl into someone determined to protect her heritage. A Grain of Hope reminds us of the human toll of war and oppression and celebrates the human spirit.
On Being Human
By Ghazala Alam
A compilation of original poems,
written in modern Urdu and English, with each poem introduced by an English preamble detailing the author’s inspirations and insights. Accompanied by English transliteration, Alam’s poetry is informed by her experiences as an immigrant, woman, and a person of color. This distinct lens on life’s challenges also reaffirms her faith in the human capacity to empathize, overcome, and seek justice.
With a sensitive, sometimes satirical style, her poems touch upon social issues pertinent to modern, everyday life. Each poem uses simple but elegant language to comment insightfully on fundamental aspects of the human struggle for meaning in the face of adversity and turmoil. Tackling issues such as ego, PTSD, and rejection, as well as true love and generosity, Ghazala’s poems include a rallying cry for racial justice, a depiction of inner struggles of the mind, and much more.
BookBites is presented by BookTrib. com.
Manny Jacinto as the Stranger in “The Acolyte”. PHOTO COURTESY DISNEY
Activities That Can Promote Cardiovascular Health
Resolving to be physically active is an important step towards heart health and overall well-being. Exercise is one of the most effective tools for strengthening the heart and avoiding various illnesses, including high cholesterol, that can affect cardiovascular health, according to Johns Hopkins Medicine.
Although any exercise can be beneficial, there is a fitness recipe de-
signed to be the most effective for strengthening the heart and helping it to work to its full potential. Here are the guidelines recommended by the American Heart Association and Johns Hopkins Medicine.
• Get 150 minutes per week or more of moderate-intensity aerobic activity or 75 minutes per week of vigorous-intensity aerobic activity, or
See CARDIO HEALTH, page 16
BEST IN CLASS SPECIALTY CARE
Henry Mayo Newhall Hospital and Keck Medicine of USC are partnering to bring advanced services — cancer care, breast health, colorectal surgery, and specialty urology — to our community in the Santa Clarita Valley.
Keck Medicine’s USC Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center brings the latest innovations in cancer detection, prevention, and treatment to help you get the care you need close to home.
HEALTHY LIVING
Get Vaccinated Against the Flu — Important for Those at High Risk
Kaiser Permanente
As flu season approaches, prioritize your health and your loved ones by getting the flu shot. Kaiser Permanente is committed to keeping our community healthy. The flu shot is a simple, effective way to protect against the influenza virus.
The flu can be particularly dangerous for high-risk groups, including the elderly, individuals with chronic health conditions, and specific subgroups such as African Americans and Latinx communities. These groups are more susceptible to severe complications, making vaccination critical.
For the elderly, the flu can lead to pneumonia, hospitalization, and even death. High-dose flu vaccines are recommended for seniors to provide better protection. By getting vaccinated, older adults can reduce their risk of complications and maintain their health.
African American and Latinx com-
munities often face health care disparities, increasing their risk of severe flu complications. Kaiser Permanente
addresses these disparities by offering accessible flu vaccination services and culturally responsive care. Vaccinating everyone helps protect the most vulnerable and reduces the virus’s spread.
A study co-authored by the Kaiser Permanente School of Medicine and the CDC shows that vaccination significantly reduces influenza-related outpatient visits and hospitalizations. School-age children have the highest
annual flu rates, up to 42%.
Recommended for those aged 6 months and older, the flu vaccine is a simple, safe, and effective way to protect yourself and your loved ones. Schedule your flu vaccine today at a convenient Kaiser Permanente location near you to safeguard your health and our community.
For more information about this year’s flu vaccine, visit kp.org/ flu.
Common Health Conditions That Affect Seniors
The human body changes as it ages. While certain conditions are commonly associated with aging, some individuals may be surprised to learn of the more common health conditions that can affect seniors. The World Health Organization says one in six people will be 60 or older by 2030. With such a large portion of the population
on the cusp of turning 60, it makes sense for individuals to familiarize themselves with the more notable issues affecting seniors.
Cognitive Decline
A certain degree of memory loss is a natural component of aging. Forgetting where you left your keys or experiencing difficulty putting a name to a face can be a random and frustrating
occurrence. However, dementias, like Alzheimer’s disease, are not a side effect of aging. As many as one in five seniors experiences mental health issues that are not associated with aging, and it helps to learn the early warning signs of dementia. Such recognition may compel individuals to seek treatment that can slow the progression of the disease.
See CONDITIONS, page 18
HEALTHY LIVING
Bennett’s Honey Farm — Mother Nature’s Superfood
Natural honey is a great source of simple carbohydrates you can put to immediate use for quick energy. Rich in antioxidants, honey works to reduce inflammation in your body that can cause heart disease, cancer, and autoimmune disorders. It contains polyphenols, known to boost digestion and brain health. Studies show it also has the potential to suppress coughs and help protect against heart disease by lowering blood pressure.
The Most Wholesome Honey Under Heaven
For maximum health benefits, look for honey that is 100% pure, natural, and unfiltered.
Topanga Quality Honey, created by Bennett’s Honey Farm, is gravity strained to preserve the trace pollens and minerals that give each jar its unique nutrients, character, and flavor. It’s available in over 11 different varietals.
Nothing is wasted in producing Topanga Quality Honey. Several additional healthful products come from the Bennett Honey Farm hives:
Propolis: a resin proven to have wound healing and tissue regenerative properties.
Royal jelly: a nutritious liquid that may increase energy, alleviate mood disorders and sleeplessness, and bolster the immune system.
Bee pollen: nutritious pollen grains that may combat nervousness and fatigue and help fight bronchitis, sinusitis, and colds.
Bennett’s Honey Farm is in Ventura County, home to the best sage and wildflower fields in California. The company, now owned by Chip Van-
CARDIO HEALTH
Continued from page 13
a combination of both. These activities can include running, cycling, swimming and others that will get the heart pumping.
• Incorporate moderate- to high-intensity muscle-strengthening activity at least two days a week.
• Strength training should be designed to work the entire body. It doesn’t have to be traditional weightlifting, either. Body weight exercises, yoga, Pilates, and even tai chi can build strength and offer additional benefits like improving balance.
• Consider HIIT exercises. HIIT stands for high-intensity interval training, which involves exercising as hard as one can for a short peri-
noy, a leading expert in bee heath and pollination, donates honey to national and international catastrophe programs, food banks and the needy. To
minimize its impact on the environment, Bennett’s Honey Farm is 100% solar powered and close to a zero-carbon footprint operation.
od, and then resting briefly before exercising hard again for a short period. While there are many different HIIT programs, UT South-
western Medical Center says a popular one involves exercising hard for four minutes, followed by three minutes of recovery time, for four
cycles total.
• While stretching, flexibility and balance exercises do not directly affect heart health, they do help one stay flexible and free from joint pain and other issues that can sideline a person from exercise. Doing what one can to protect against falls and reduce risk of being sedentary will benefit the heart in the long run.
• Don’t discount everyday activities in relation to how they can enhance heart health. Walking, gardening, playing with children, or tossing a ball to a family pet are beneficial aerobic activities.
Heart health is something to take seriously, and exercise plays a key role in strengthening the heart. (MC)
The Annual Enrollment Period (AEP) only occurs once a year. Ensure your Medicare coverage includes Providence.
The most highly trained primary care physicians and specialists continue to choose Providence as their home. You should, too.
The AEP is your opportunity to select a Medicare plan that gives you access to Providence’s expansive network of nationally recognized doctors and hospitals. You’ll receive compassionate care and the flexibility to choose when and how you receive care. From in-person and virtual visits to urgent care options, we’re here when you need us.
It’s the way we deliver exceptional health care that makes it So Providence.
Learn more at Providence.org/SoCalMA
Scan the QR code to sign up for a seminar near you led by licensed and independent insurance experts. So comprehensive. So convenient.
Three easy ways to get started:
Visit Providence.org/SoCalMA.
Learn the basics of Medicare, get the facts about your options and use our decision tree to help understand your coverage options.
Call 844-992-1259 any day between 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Our expert team will answer your questions and help you get the most out of your plan.
Sign up for a seminar.
Complete care, focused on you
The Annual Enrollment Period (AEP) only occurs once a year from October 15 to December 7, so don’t miss your chance to ensure your coverage includes Facey, affiliated with Providence. We offer easy to use resources as you navigate AEP, including helpful guides and a clear summary of the parts of Medicare. This AEP, it’s our mission to help you get the most of Medicare. If you’re already familiar with Facey and Providence, you know that it’s the way we deliver care that makes your experience So Providence. From expert primary care physicians to advanced specialty care, you can always depend on Southern California’s largest health system to provide the care you need near you. With primary care, specialty and urgent care loca-
CONDITIONS
Continued from page 14
Osteoarthritis
Aches and pains may come with aging, and often can be attributed to osteoarthritis, which is the most common form of arthritis, according to the Mayo Clinic. Osteoarthritis occurs when the protective cartilage that cushions the ends of bones wears away over time. It is progressive and cannot be reversed, but maintaining a healthy weight and staying active can help alleviate pain and improve joint function.
Cataracts, Refractive Errors
It should come as no surprise to most that the eyes change as the body ages. Refractive errors like nearsightedness, farsightedness, astigmatism, and presbyopia can make objects look blurry when viewed, says the National Eye Institute. Cataracts, which are a clouding of the eye’s natural lenses, affect about 20 percent of people age 65 and older, according to the American Geriatrics Society, while the National Eye Institute says half of all people over age 80 will get them. Cataract removal surgery and prescription eyeglasses can help.
Type
2 Diabetes
American Senior Communities
tions across the San Fernando and Santa Clarita Valleys, Facey provides access to world-class high-quality coordinated care. Our affiliation with Providence ensures seamless access to top-rated hospitals, telehealth visits and 24/7 access to electronic medical records.
Learn more and get the most of Medicare with Providence. It’s easy to get started. Visit Providence.org/ SoCalMA learn the basics of Medicare, get the facts about your options and use our simple quiz to help you understand your coverage options and sign up for a no-cost seminar. Call 844-992-1259 anytime from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., seven days a week and get your questions answered by a licensed and independent insurance expert.
reports that it’s estimated 25 percent of adults age 65 and older have type 2 diabetes. Unchecked diabetes can lead to a host of ailments, including vision problems, mobility issues, kidney damage, and increased risk for heart disease or stroke. Many people can manage type 2 diabetes with diet and exercise.
Heart Disease
The National Institute on Aging says adults age 65 and older are more likely than younger people to suffer from cardiovascular disease that affects the heart, blood vessels or both. Conditions like high blood pressure and high cholesterol need to be properly managed, and diet and exercise is important throughout life to avoid developing heart disease in later years.
Balance Issues
Balance issues that can lead to falls are a major concern for seniors. According to HealthinAging.org, many things can adversely affect balance. These include nerve and brain problems, vision troubles, diabetes, arthritis, inner ear problems, and even dehydration. Dizziness or balance problems should be addressed, as there are serious health risks associated with falls. (MC)
HEALTHY LIVING
Pickleball for All: Avoiding Pains From the Fun Game With the Funny Name
Pickleball has seen a surge in popularity among seniors. The low-impact activity offers great health benefits, including improved cardiovascular health, balance, and coordination. However, injuries can happen too. The team of experts at Southern California Orthopedic Institute is here to help you take preventative measures to avoid joint pain, sprains, strains, and other pickleball-related injuries.
Preventing Pickleball Injuries
Always warm up Before playing, engage in a thorough warm-up, including stretching and light cardio. Practice proper technique Learn and practice correct form to minimize strain.
Listen to your body Pay attention to any pain or discomfort and take breaks as needed.
Stay hydrated. Dehydration increases the risk of injury Drink plenty of water throughout the game.
Consider a checkup If you have any underlying health concerns, consult a healthcare professional before starting pickleball.
“From a pickleball injury to concerns about your overall health, we’re here to provide expert care and guidance,” said Dr. Christopher Hamilton, board-certified sports medicine specialist. “Our doctors treat a full range of bone, joint, and muscle conditions to ensure you keep doing and playing what you love.”
Southern California Orthopedic Institute is the region’s most preferred orthopedic practice* and one of the largest private orthopedic practices on the West Coast. Located in Valencia at 24051 Newhall Ranch Road, Building C, the practice has 14 exceptional doctors available to treat patients in the Santa Clarita Valley. For an appointment or more information about the practice, call (818) 901-6600 or visit www.scoi.com.
*Independent Market Research.
Activity Levels Dictate Caloric Needs
Healthy aging is a multifaceted process that involves an array of variables. Diet and exercise are two such variables, and each are intertwined. According to the National Institute on Aging, the amount of calories individuals over 60 need each day depends on their physical activity levels.
The NIA notes that the more active men and women over 60 are, the more calories they will need to consume.
Inactive The NIA recommends that women over 60 who are not physically active consume 1,600 calories per day. Men over 60 who are not physically active are urged to consume between 2,000 and 2,200 calories a day. Moderately active Moderate physical activity is best defined by an individual’s physician, who may recommend various exercises or activities based on each person’s condition. Daily walks may qualify as moderate physical activity, but aging adults are urged to keep track of the length and
intensity of such walks so they can work with their physicians to determine how they might affect their daily caloric intake. Women over 60 who engage in moderate physical activity each day are urged to consume 1,800 calories per day, while men should consume between 2,200 and 2,400 calories.
Very active Aging men and women can probably determine on their own if their lifestyle can be described as very physically active. Women over 60 who qualify as very active should consume between 2,000 and 2,200 calories per day, while very active men should consume between 2,400 and 2,600 calories per day.
Of course, it’s important that men and women over 60 choose the right foods each day as well. The NIA advises against choosing foods that have a lot of sugar, saturated fat and sodium. Fruits, vegetables and whole grains are examples of healthy foods that can help aging individuals reach recommended daily calorie intake without compromising their overall health. (MC)
HEALTHY LIVING
Dos and Don’ts of Healthy Weight Loss
Maintaining a healthy weight promotes long-term health. Being overweight or obese are risk factors for various conditions, including type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease. The World Health Organization reports that the worldwide obesity rate has tripled since 1975. In 2016, more than 1.9 billion adults were overweight. Of these, more than 650 million were obese.
Health issues related to obesity are largely preventable. Losing weight in a healthy manner is essential for safe and lasting results. Individuals aspiring to lose weight can follow these guidelines on what to do and what not to do.
DO add lean protein sources to your diet. Healthline indicates the body burns calories when digesting and metabolizing protein, so a high-protein diet can help to shed up to 80 to 100 calories per day. Protein also helps you to feel full, reducing the propensity to overeat.
DON’T get hung up on numbers early on. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention advises that even modest weight loss of 5 to 10 percent of your total body weight is bound to produce health benefits, such as improvements in blood sugar levels, cholesterol and blood pressure. Start small and
gradually build up.
DO eat at least four servings of vegetables and three servings of fruits daily. Produce contains an abundance of vital nutrients and is often fiber-rich and low in calories, which helps you to feel full.
DON’T overlook the impact of beverages on weight loss. The calories in sugary beverages, including some all-natural fruit juices, can add up quickly. Stick to water, tea or other unsweetened beverages to help with weight loss.
DO get moving more. The Mayo Clinic notes that while it is possible to lose weight without exercise, getting moving can help burn off the excess calories you can’t cut through diet alone. Exercise boosts metabolism and benefits mood and strengthens muscles and the cardiovascular system as well.
DON’T go shopping while hungry. If you do, you may make impulse buys that compromise
See WEIGHT LOSS, page 22
Val Verde - Canyon Country - Newhall - Valencia
Samuel Dixon Family Health Center
Samuel Dixon Family Health Center (SDFHC) has been serving residents of the Santa Clarita Valley and neighboring communities for over 40 years. We strive to provide affordable, easily accessible, and quality care for anyone in need with specialized programs for individuals who are uninsured, under-insured, and struggle financially to make ends meet. Services include primary healthcare, oral healthcare, behavioral health, and healthcare enrollment services for programs that include Medi-Cal and Covered California. In the last few years, our Behavioral Health department has grown significantly that includes facilities in Valencia and our newest location in Newhall, as well as counseling offices co-located in our health centers. We accept Medi-Cal, Managed Care Plans, select private insurances, and have an affordable sliding fee scale option. We never refuse service due to an inability to pay.
Taking care of your mental health is equally as important as taking care of your physical health. Our healthcare professionals work as a team to attend to both the physical and mental health of our patients, understanding that poor mental health can manifest as physical symptoms, and it impacts how you feel, think, behave, how you see yourself, and your ability to connect
with others. Having good mental health means you have the tools to cope and effectively manage stressors. Make your mental health a priority to-
day. Our Behavioral Health professionals are committed to your overall health and well-being and are here to help!
Get The Most Out of Your Medicare
Choosing the right medical group is one of the most important decisions you can make. With the right care team by your side, you can feel confident your health and well-being are in good hands.
Regal Medical Group and Lakeside Community Healthcare know quality care is more than seeing your doctor when you’re sick. It’s also about having the right resources when you need them. That’s why being part of the largest physician-led network in SoCal means better choices in finding the right doctors that best fit your needs.
The annual Medicare Enrollment Period occurs from Oct. 15 – Dec. 7. With changes to Medicare benefits each year, make sure a licensed agent reviews your coverage for 2025. Choosing Medicare Advantage can help reduce out-of-pocket costs while providing coverage for other important services. With Regal/Lakeside as your medical group, you also receive:
• 30 years of experience delivering quality healthcare
• Access to thousands of doctors, specialists, urgent care centers, labs and hospitals
• Free health education, fitness classes and more
“We help our members make realistic changes that lead to healthier lifestyles,” says Mindy Morgen, VP of Marketing and Health Education. “They can browse free wellness classes at HealthyWayEvents.com.”
A positive member experience is the goal for any medical group. “Our physicians speak your language,” says Nirav Shah, M.D., senior medical director, “and provide support beyond the doctor’s office.”
To learn more about Regal and Lakeside and your Medicare options for 2025, call licensed agent Charles Soltan (CA License #0693820) at (877) 767-1559.
Today’s hearing aid technology supports how the brain naturally processes sounds. Dr. Ginny Veloz & her hearing healthcare team have been serving Santa Clarita for over 20 years.
Call (661) 388-4135 today to schedule an appointment for a Complimentary Hearing-Aid Evaluation or Hearing Aid Clean & Check.
(No purchase necessary. New patients only. Mention the Sunday Signal when scheduling.)
WEIGHT LOSS
Continued from page 20
healthy eating plans.
DO speak with a doctor if you are vetting diet and exercise plans. A healthcare professional can assist you by indicating if a particular diet or fitness routine is acceptable for your age, goals and current health status.
DON’T forget to track eating. Most healthy diets involve some sort of calorie-counting, whether they actually require you to document your intake or use a formula to attribute “points” or another measure related to what you eat.
Writing or tracking the foods and beverages you consume will provide the most honest assessment of habits that could affect weight loss.
DO include foods you enjoy. Completely restricting access to occasional treats may cause you to resent healthy eating, which can derail weight loss goals. The principle of moderation can apply to healthy weight loss as long as you account for the more calorie-dense foods. Losing weight in a healthy manner is achievable when you seek guidance and follow some time-tested techniques. (MC)
SENIOR LIVING
What Older Adults Need to Know About RSV Vaccines
Even though cooler days may seem far off, now is the best time to plan ahead for a healthy winter. One common respiratory illness, respiratory syncytial virus, or RSV, usually causes mild, cold-like symptoms, but it can be severe and even deadly for older people.
“As we grow older, our immune systems do not work as well and we are more likely to have chronic conditions, which means we are at increased risk of getting very sick from common viruses as we age,” said Alison Barkoff, who leads the Administration for Community Living within the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.
“Getting vaccinated is the best protection against fall respiratory viruses like RSV. It can help keep symptoms mild and help keep people out of the hospital.”
Here’s what older Americans need to know about RSV and vaccines this fall, according to the Risk Less. Do More. Public Education Campaign.
Prevention is key. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that everyone 75 years and older get an RSV vaccine.
Also, people between 60-74 should get vaccinated if they have conditions such as heart or lung disease, diabetes, obesity or a weakened immune system. The vaccine cuts the risk of hospitalization
from RSV by at least half.
People living in nursing homes, assisted living or other long-term care facilities are at even higher risk. There are many people living together in these
facilities who have medical conditions that make them more likely to get very sick. While vaccines may not always stop infection, they can prevent severe illness. So, vaccination is very important for residents of long-term care facilities.
RSV vaccines are available. Three RSV vaccines have been approved for older adults by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. You only need a single dose that you can get at any time of the year, but getting the vaccine in the early fall offers the best protection for the late fall and winter, when RSV usually peaks. Getting the vaccine early gives your immune system enough time to build up protection.
RSV vaccines are the best protection. The RSV vaccines have gone through extensive testing. Last year, more than 20 million older adults were vaccinated safely. Mild side effects, such as pain, redness or swelling at the injection site sometimes happen, but they usually go away on their own in a few days. Serious allergic reactions from RSV vaccines are rare.
GARDENING
Brighten Your Autumn Garden With Pansies
Autumn has arrived, welcoming cooler temperatures and a new chance to enjoy seasonal flowers. Fall presents a new opportunity to embrace the beauty of the outdoors. It’s the perfect time of year to decorate with the colors of fall and experiment with plants that thrive in the crisp air and warm soil, such as Cool Wave® Pansies.
Flowers with a Friendly Face
Pansies are lively plants that flourish throughout the autumn season. Flower choices like Cool Wave® Pansies are the key to bringing a burst of color to your garden as the weather turns colder. These cheerful, hardy flowers outperform other pansies, quickly filling your garden with bright blooms.
Cool Wave® Pansies are a low-maintenance, fast-growing, long-lasting trailing pansy available in a variety of colors, making them perfect for refreshing your outdoor space and customizing the garden for fall. A cool-season gardener’s dream, these blooms are reliable and thrive throughout the season, even as temperatures fluctuate.
Combos That Count
While you can plant pansies in a single color for a monochrome look, why not try combining different hues? Planting Cool Wave® Pansies in a
variety of colors allows each individual shade to complement the other, adding a pop of color that will brighten up your space. Try mixing different shades for a stunning combination.
As a solo star, enjoy the vibrant hue of Cool Wave® Golden Yellow Pansies. They are versatile enough to be used in gardens across seasons.
Or, pair with Cool Wave® Purple and Cool Wave® Violet Wing for a captivating contrast in your cool-season garden. The deep shade of Cool Wave® Purple adds a rich, moody feel to your designs. The Violet Wing Pansies feature a dark purple cap atop a cheerful white-and-yellow center, bringing a dramatic flair to winter landscapes.
How to Keep Your Pansies Thriving
Perfect for any space needing an overflow of
flowers, Cool Wave® Pansies can be planted in landscapes, hanging baskets, balconies and patio containers. To ensure your Cool Wave® Pansies thrive this autumn, follow these few simple rules: Planting Plant pansies in loose, moist, well-drained soil. They prefer full or partial sun and cooler temperatures, with an ideal location receiving morning sun while avoiding the heat of the late afternoon. Spacing When planting directly in the ground, space pansies about 10-12 inches apart. They will spread about 24-30 inches and grow 6-8 inches tall. Containers Pansies are great container plants. Plant 3-4 Cool Wave® Pansies in a 10-12” container, placing them evenly around the edge of the container so they trail over the sides.
Watering and feeding Water pansies regularly to prevent wilting, but avoid oversaturating the soil. Apply a general, all-purpose fertilizer every two weeks before a hard frost to help them grow. Remove faded or dead flowers to encourage more blooms and prolong the blooming season.
Brighten up your outdoor spaces this autumn with welcoming pansy color. To learn more about these fall-friendly plants, visit WaveGardening. com. (BPT)
Over the last three years many of us have put off important routine medical screenings. Please discuss with your physician what screenings you may be due for. These routine medical tests can be life-saving.
For more information, call 661.200.1332 or visit henrymayo.com/screenings.
What to Know About Mortgage Preapproval
Shopping for and ultimately purchasing a home can feel like a day at an amusement park. Much like a ride on a roller coaster, buying a home can be both exciting and a little scary, and those peaks and valleys have been even more profound in recent years, when the real estate market has been as tough as ever to navigate due to low inventory and high prices.
Though the real estate market has changed significantly in recent years, some conventional home buying wisdom still holds true. The importance of mortgage preapproval is one such notion, and it’s even likely that being preapproved for a mortgage before making an offer on a home is more significant now than it was as recently as half a decade ago.
What is mortgage preapproval?
Mortgage preapproval essentially confirms to sellers and sellers’ agents that a given buyer has qualified for a mortgage they can use to purchase a property. In a competitive real estate market like the current one, mortgage preapproval can set buyers apart from the competition, increasing the likelihood that their offers will be accepted over ones submitted by buyers who have not been preapproved.
What is prequalification?
Some buyers may hear the term “prequalification” and assume it’s the same thing as preapproval. However, the lending experts at LendingTree report there is a notable distinction between the two terms.
Prequalification is less formal and based on a casual conversation with
a lender that may or may not involve details about a buyer’s credit history, income, monthly expenditures, and other pertinent financial information.
Preapproval is a formal examination of a buyer’s finances and financial history that is conducted after documentation such as W-2s and bank statements are provided. A lender also will conduct a credit inquiry through three major credit bureaus during the preapproval process.
How do I get mortgage preapproval?
Mortgage preapproval is a simple process and it’s a service offered by most mortgage lenders. A simple phone call or email to a lender can get the process started, and it does not take long for a lender to decide if an applicant qualifies for preapproval. However, insufficient documentation or misleading information can slow down the
preapproval process (and potentially cause a lender to deny an application), so prospective home buyers are encouraged to provide ample and honest documentation of their finances.
Does a mortgage
preapproval expire?
It can take buyers a long time to buy a home in a competitive market with low inventory. So it’s important that prospective buyers recognize mortgage preapproval has a shelf life of around 60 to 90 days.
The preapproval letter a lender provides will indicate an expiration date for the preapproval. If that date comes and goes without buyers purchasing a home, they will have to reapply for preapproval.
Must I borrow from the lender who preapproved me?
Buyers also should know that a mortgage preapproval does not bind them to the lender who preapproved them. Buyers can still shop around for a mortage once they make an offer on a home.
Mortgage preapproval is a vital part of the home buying process and can be especially useful in a competitive real estate market.
Opinion
Unless otherwise stated, the views and opinions expressed are those of the respective authors and do not necessarily represent the views of The
READER LETTERS
Save Our Failing State
It is time we Democrats start doing the right thing for this state and the country. The Democrats have gone down a dark hole and can't find their way out. Communism and socialism is not designed for the people, it is designed to control all facets of your life, and not for the good. Why so many Democrats want that type of life is beyond me.
A good example is the race for California Senate between Steve Garvey and Adam Schiff. All this man does is lie! Don't we have enough of that in our government already?
Steve Garvey put it this way, and I quote:
“Schiff is a career-politician (since 1996).” Strike one!
“Schiff lied to 300 million Americans and was censured by Congress for falsehoods, misrepresentations and abuses of sensitive information.” Strike two!
“He is cut from the same leftist cloth as Kamala Harris. What's more, Schiff and Harris did more than anyone to lie to the American people about Joe Biden’s mental incapacity, but then conspired to remove Biden once they saw the threat his sagging poll numbers posed to ‘their’ political careers.” Strike three!
We have enough extreme left-leaning Democrats in this failed state already. And it is failing! We are the laughingstock of this country. Crime, homelessness, drug addiction, inflation, open borders and failing schools along with bad district attorneys. Our DAs have legalized crime and defunded the police. Tell me how you think this is all going to turn out for we citizens? That is, you!
It is time to start thinking about how you’re going to vote to save your children and grandchildren’s future regardless of your political affiliation.
Please consider and think about this before you vote this year! This could very well be our last chance.
Ron Leibsker Canyon Country
ETHICALLY SPEAKING
At What Point?
By David Hegg
Recently, I had an engaging afternoon conversation with a young businesswoman who had just returned home after a successful managerial position in Europe. As we were talking about the changes she has noticed in our culture and national conversations, she asked a simple question: “At what point ...?”
Of course, her question was really a statement arguing that, at some point, Americans need to wake up to the toxins being spewed all over us by those manipulating our most important resource: the truth.
So, with the due acknowledgment that this column flows out of our conversation, understand that my intent here is to ask questions designed to detox your conscience by asking you ... at what point do we say the emperor has no clothes, enough is enough, and we’re not going to put up with it anymore?
At what point do we shout that we’re through listening to personal attacks and demand policy presentations that show what can be done, how to do it, and the justifiable results?
At what point do we denounce cancel culture and reaffirm the wisdom of disagreeing agreeably?
At what point do we proclaim that tolerance, which assumes differences exist, is an essential ingredient in civil society?
At what point do we stop choosing leaders based on who we’d rather go to lunch with and start demanding that leadership be entrusted only to those who have lived with integrity, worked with excellence, and demonstrated an ability to bring about beneficial results?
Most of all, at what point do we refuse to accept the propaganda of those who are attempting to change our culture and our lives by commandeering our language?
Whose Arrogance?
The last three years must have been a humbling time on the NeverTrump side. And yet perhaps not, since mea culpas are rarely forthcoming. Odd thing that. It’s almost as if the arrogance they ascribed to the Bad Orange Man was their own all along.
Rob Kerchner
Santa Clarita
Submit a Letter to the Editor
Include name, address & phone. E-mail: letters@signalscv.com. Anonymous letters are not published.
For example, it is common parlance today to hear leaders boasting they are zealous to protect “reproductive freedom” for women. Yet, we all know this is just Orwellian doublespeak for the right to have an abortion.
Let’s think about it. Those who pursue getting an abortion are living, breathing examples of reproductive freedom. They have already demonstrated their freedom by reproducing a human life that is now safely nestled in the womb. The truth is that the phrase “reproductive freedom” has been commandeered to mean the exact opposite of the actual definition of the words being used. “Reproductive freedom” is propaganda that champions the power to “de-produce” what has already been produced. What is being championed is “de-productive freedom,” and no amount of polishing can obscure that
horrible reality.
And we also hear abortion labeled as “health care.” But how healthy is it when a beating human heart is intentionally stopped? And how healthy is it when those who choose abortion too often sustain ongoing physical and emotional challenges?
At what point do we stand up and say truth matters? At what point do we demand that scientific DNA-based evidence is what defines gender as male and female?
At what point do we demand that our government stop printing money, fueling inflation, and raising the national debt to the place where, according to Forbes, our quarterly interest on that debt has reached $1 trillion?
At what point do we look at our fellow Americans of every race, creed and political view as neighbors to be loved rather than enemies to be destroyed?
At what point do we acknowledge that we have allowed fear and hate to become daily emotions due to the ingesting of too much slanted, biased and distorted news?
At what point do we push back against those who have drained “privilege, equality and diversity” of their full range of meaning and inserted their own ideas that masquerade as positive while creating animosity and division in our cities?
At what point do we stop believing that truth depends on an individual’s desires? At what point do we stop accepting the premise that reality is malleable? That 2 + 2 = ... well, whatever you want it to be?
At what point do we open our eyes and realize potent enemies are watching as we erode our own culture, weaken our unity, and open the doors to ideologies that have ruined other civilizations, all in the name of progress?
And, at what point do we realize that having banished God and faith and morality and love of neighbor to the margins of our lives, and for many, all the way off the page, we are not better off individually or as a people?
We’re at that point, if not already past it. I hope that enough of us will search our hearts, calm the fears that bring out the worst in us, and seek to be useful in the invisible war in which we are all engaged, whether we like it or not. Seek the truth, believe the truth, and hold fast to the truth, and then winsomely yet courageously fight to defend the truth as the only way life can have meaning and purpose.
America deserves better, and it begins in your heart and mine, in our love for one another and our love for God and country.
Local resident David Hegg is senior pastor of Grace Baptist Church. “Ethically Speaking” appears Sundays.
