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Haunted California: Ghost Walks

By Michele E. Buttelman Signal Staff Writer

‘T

is the season for all things that go “bump in the night.” When October arrives it’s natural to start thinking of all things pumpkin spice and, of course, all things Halloween.

Ghosts, specters, mysterious raps, knocks and other sounds, haunted mansions, graveyards and signs from “the other side” are popular topics during October.

Ghostly phenomena have taken over our televi sions with dozens of reality ghost hunting shows available to watch or download.

Many haunted California locations have been extensively researched by professional ghost hunt ers, as well as amateurs hoping to find evidence of spirits.

Ghost Hunting Tips

If you want to find ghosts on your own a few simple pieces of equipment can help.

Camera It’s best to have an old-fashioned digital camera because newer cell phone cameras have too many software enhances for low light. You can cap ture orbs (thought to be energy fields of spirits) but simply pointing a camera at areas of a room that might contain “ghosts” and clicking several photos in rapid succession. You can often capture orbs in dark corners or ceilings.

EMF Meter An EMF meter measures electro-mag netic fields around you. In ghost hunting a spike in meter readings can signify a ghostly presence.

Audio Recorder Letting an audio recorder run in an empty may sometimes catch unnatural sounds and sometimes voices from beyond. Use of an au dio recorder to ask questions of nearby spirits can also result in faint answers. Best results are ob tained with yes and no questions.

Search the internet for “ghost hunting equipment.” There are several good sources to find these items, as well as more sophisticated ghost hunting tools.

Where to Go?

Historic buildings with a history of ghost sight ings are the best places to go ghost hunting. A history of violent death often produces increased ghostly activity.

Ghost Walks are now a big business and a great way to find out the history of an area and have pro fessionals point out the best locations to encounter visitors from the “other side.”

Most ghost tours are walking tours. Howev er, you can also find bus tours available through out Southern California if you want to cover more ground.

The Whaley House Museum

2476 San Diego Ave., San Diego 92110 Tickets ghostsandgravestones.trustedtours.com/

whaley-house-evening-tour

It may look like an ordinary, old-fashioned brick house, but the Whaley House is anything but. In its history, it served as the town courthouse, a gener al store, a theater, a morgue and a granary. It was also home to Thomas Whaley and his family, many of whom are said to be haunting the old mansion since their demise.

You can attend a Whaley House Haunted Eve ning Tour for $18. Tours in October are held daily and leave hourly from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m.

Alcatraz

100 Jefferson St., San Francisco 94133

Info www.alcatrazislandtickets.com; Tours leave from pier 33 at Fisherman’s Wharf.

The famous maximum-security prison located in the San Francisco Bay; Alcatraz Federal Peniten tiary is rumored to be haunted by the spirit of Al Capone.

Inexplicable events like the sound of someone playing the banjo once spooked prison guards and visitors alike. Many believe this to be the spirit of Capone who spent his last days at the prison play ing the banjo in the shower room to avoid being killed in the yard. The smell of smoke, the sounds of cell doors slamming, disembodied voices moan ing and screams have all been reported.

Night tours of Alcatraz are offered. Not actually a ghost tour, but your best opportunity to view Alca traz in a truly spooky setting.

Haunted Hollywood

Info There are a variety of ghost tours including:

• ghostcitytours.com/ghost-tours/hollywoodghost-tours/

• laghosttour.com

• americanghostwalks.com/tour/hollywoodghost-walk

Hollywood is a popular location for evening ghost tours. As the sun sets over Hollywood walk down the Boulevard of Broken Dreams to visit haunted hotels, theaters and landmarks.

Some favorite Hollywood ghost stories? The truth about the Hollywood Ripper, where to go to see the ghost of Marilyn Monroe and what real ly happens when the lights go out at the Pantages Theatre.

From ghosts to arson to the occasional serial kill er, Hollywood has more than its share of secrets.

Los Angeles — Chinatown

Info thehauntghosttours.com

The Haunt is Los Angeles’ real ghost hunting ex cursion. You will travel through historic Chinatown after dark, seeking out paranormal activity while learning of the haunted past in old Los Angeles.

Visit the Chinatown metro station and hear of the cemeteries discovered as the metro was being constructed. Nearby is an old milling warehouse that may be haunted by the ghosts of two employ ees whose tragic deaths 100 years ago still linger.

Every Ghost Hunter ticket includes use of an EMF detector during the tour. The host will carry other modern ghost hunting tools, which will be used throughout the tour. Not “just a ghost tour,” this 1.5-hour night tour includes tales of unex plained deaths, scandalous murders, the old redlight district, famed spirits, Chinatown assassins and more.

Pasadena

36 S. El Molino Ave., Pasadena 91101

Info lawalkingtours.com/hauntedpasadena

This two-hour tour covers 1.5 miles and is only offered on Fridays.

Through castles and courtyards, mortuaries and theaters, darkened alleyways and shuttered shop ping malls discover the sordid side of the City of Roses.

Meet the phantoms who haunt its alleys, under ground tunnels, corridors, and back rooms. Unex plained mysteries and dirty dealings pepper Pasa dena’s past, which you will discover on a nighttime wander through the Playhouse Village and Old Pasadena.

Above: Alcatraz is said to be haunted by the spirit of Al Capone. Right: It is said that phantoms haunt the alleys, underground tunnels, corridors and back rooms of this 120-year-old building in Pasadena. PHOTO COURTESY L.A. WALKING TOURS

TRENDS

By Jim Walker Signal Staff Writer

So fall has begun. Except in Southern California, fall is more a concept than a season. The heat of summer tends to drag on, or at least pop up the minute you think you can put on a sweater. And so, while you run your air-conditioning and the television fireplace at the same time, imag inings of cool Oktoberfests, frosty pumpkin patches and chill-ish trick-or-treating are just that.

For this reason, you have to be careful about East Coast-inspired fashion advice. It might just put you into heat stroke.

Fall fashion advice from one out-of-Cali big name in clothing sales includes the following:

For women plain white tank, leather jackets, platform shoes, head-to-toe sweater dressing, over-the-knee boots, and relaxed denim.

For men dressed up suiting, suede jack ets, statement sweaters and molded sneakers.

While some of these might work, some of the time, in the SCV, others might only be suited to fall at the air-conditioned mall.

Taking a little more of a SoCal view of fall fashion tips from trendsetters, we distill some out that won’t overheat you, especially if you layer to accommodate day-into-night.

Socal Fall Style for Women

Overall, you can follow these guidelines. Jeans It can sometimes get windy and chilly, so jeans might be better than skirts or dresses.

Shirt A nice top in a breathable material, such as cotton, will keep you comfortable.

Cardigan Layers are key when moving in and out of doors, so add a removable cardigan.

Boots Boots are in style for fall, especially when you are outdoors in the evening — or if, by chance, it rains.

Following these, more stylish trends might also work.

Romantic Style Wear dresses with delicate de tails, ruffle sleeves, smocking and pleats.

Cottage theme Maybe try a tiered maxi dress

with smocking and prints. Make this garden party attire by putting on a pair of satin mules, an em broidered headband and delicate baubles.

Collegiate This runs from preppy jackets to 90s grunge boots, and you can mix and match tones like navy, red, powder blue and white — even stripes.

Grunge Think relaxed silhouettes and dark colors, distressing and plaid. Maybe add lug sole boots and a plaid shacket over a graphic tee.

Pumpkin patch ready Try an oversized sweater with patchwork detail. Pair dark-wash denim with a boot-cut silhouette. And duck boots proclaim fall — somewhere.

Cozy layers Classic coats and puffers are back, especially in neutral colors. If the weather cools enough, you can try a camel-toned overcoat or a jacket with rust-colored plaid print. But bold layers add some dash.

Edgy style Try fitted silhouettes, asymmetrical de tails and cutouts, and dark and bold tones such as black and red.

Halloween Wherever temperature-suitable, you can try Halloween hues such as black, orange, green and purple, and maybe add some lace and ties. Grab attention in a pair of green stilettos and a black mini dress.

Socal Fall Style for Men

Ignoring extremes from the runway, the fash ion advice for men in any season is fairly forgiving. Here are some general guidelines for this fall.

Denim Denim hats, frayed hems, oversized shirts and baggy jeans will work. You can begin by incor

porating one piece of denim into your overall look and layering from there as the tempera tures drop (or don’t).

Ties Trendsetters say the tie is back for men in appropriate situations, but you can mix it into a more casual outfit, maybe with jeans and a leather jacket.

Plaid Always good for fall, plaid shirts should be especially prominent this year. If things get cold enough, you can add a plaid muffler.

Here are some themes you can work with. Work-leisure This is all about syncing your most comfortable pieces with modern work wear. Think joggers, cords and chinos. Street-camp This style incorporates your favorite camping staples with a casual men’s street style spin.

In-cabin This is all about cozy, feel-good styles. Consider a plaid flannel button-up and tan lace-up lug sole boots.

Throwback Utilizing the styles of the late 90s to early 2000s, this will be preppy, punk and athletic. If you want to go further, utilize bold and futuristic street styles with hip-hop influ ences.

Maximal Take a chance here, with adorn ments dripping in texture and wild fabrication. Think “more is more,” if you dare.

Varsity College-inspired jackets and cardigans are always good for football season, if the tem perature allows.

So, let’s look good and stay comfortable out there. Fall is fun. 

NEWS FEATURE

Spouting Off Tips to Avoid Water Waste

Drought conditions persist in the Western United States, leading lawmak ers to enact measures de signed to reduce water consumption by residents. Homeowners are now having to make significant shifts with how they use water and curb waste.

According to the Environmental Protection Agency, the average per son uses up to 82 gallons of water a day in their home. Residential water use such as toilet flushing, shower ing, faucet use and laundry accounts for the majority of this consumption, costing the average homeowner more than $1,000 a year.

This everyday use also causes wear and tear on plumbing systems which can lead to leaks in pipes and drains. Up to 10% of water can be lost to leaks, with some not always easy to detect.

“Homeowners should be vigilant in inspecting and fixing any water leaks found around the home, both indoors and outdoors,” said Bonnie Lee, vice president of property claims at Mer cury Insurance.

“Updating fixtures is an important first step on stopping water loss, as not repairing or replacing aging pipes could lead to more serious complica tions.”

Installing a water leak detection de vice can help curb water waste. These systems can notify you when a leak is detected and can shut off the water system if a major problem is found. Many insurers, including Mercury, offer a water leak detection discount to qualifying homes that are equipped with these systems.

Curbing water waste can also be done by replacing old appliances with newer models that are not only more efficient, but can help save utility costs.

In the Kitchen

Upgrade your old dishwasher. A normal cycle in an energy-efficient dishwasher will use approximately 6 gallons of water compared to old er models that use around 10 to 15 gallons. Not only do old dishwashers use more water, they use more energy too. If you are looking to replace your dishwasher, look for models with an Energy Star for energy efficiency.

Replace standard sink faucet aer ators with low-flow ones. Low-flow faucet aerators save water by mixing air with the water stream, reducing the amount of water that will flow from the faucet. Limiting the amount of water flowing from the tap also lowers the amount of energy used for water heating, which lowers utility costs.

In the Laundry Room

Update old washers with a front-loading washing machine. Front loading machines are more wa ter efficient. Higher-efficiency wash ing machines use 25% less energy and

Automated Irrigation Systems

According to the Environmental Protection Agency, homes with clock timer controlled irrigation systems use about 50% more water outdoors than homes without irrigation systems. Water waste can be even more significant if irrigation sys tems are not programmed correctly or if they have a leak. In addition, if sprinkler heads are situated incorrectly, water might be directed to areas of the lawn or garden that don’t need water, or even onto driveways and sidewalks.

To reduce water waste, and save on their monthly water utility bills, homeowners can employ WaterSense labeled irrigation controllers. Such controllers adjust irrigation schedules automatically based on local weath er and landscape conditions. These systems employ intuitive program ming controls to schedule irrigation based on the water requirements of the plants. The controllers can make it easier for homeowners to keep their lawns and gardens green even during dry periods, such as drought, while still adhering to local water utility restrictions. (MC)

33% less water. They also spin faster than standard ones, meaning clothes need less drying time.

In the Bathroom

Replace older-model toilets. While many people may be more conscien tious about conserving water in the bathroom by taking shorter showers, they may not be aware that toilets are the main source of water use in the home, and can use up to 30% of the home’s water supply.

According to the EPA, toilets man ufactured before 1982 can use up to 7 gallons of water with every flush, compared to modern toilets, which use only 1.6 gallons. Toilet manufac turers stamp the underside or back wall of the tank with a gallons per flush (gpf) rating. This will let you know how many gallons of water are being used per flush. The higher the GPF number, the more water is being used.

Saving Water Outside the Home

Outdoor watering accounts for al most 30% of overall residential water use. While lawns tend to absorb more water than plants, many homeowners may not be aware that irrigation con trols may need to be adjusted or of the different water needs for the vari ety of plants in their gardens.

Consider reducing or eliminating ornamental lawns by incorporating native or drought-resistant plants around your home’s yard. These plants require less maintenance, less water, and will help lower water costs.

Consult a local nursery or land scaping professional to ensure that you choose the best plants for your area.

Adjust your automatic sprinkler system. Set watering times for early in the morning, when there is less of a chance for evaporation. Check sprin kler heads to make sure they are not clogged or broken as that can lead to additional water loss.

Preventing unnecessary water loss begins with a thorough inspection of the home. Inspecting plumbing fix tures and properly maintaining and upgrading appliances when needed will not only save water and energy, it could end up saving you more money as well. (BPT)

Hacks to Help Reduce Low-Energy Levels

By Jim Walker Soignal Staff Writer

There’s occasionally tired, and there’s always tired. There’s a little tired, and there’s too tired to function. There’s tired that is explainable, and there’s tired that seems unreasonable. If your tired runs to ward always, too, or unreasonable, you should get a through medical, and possibly psychological, checkup.

Then, aside from any necessary repairs, your doctor will probably have lots of advice about eat ing better, and sleeping and exercising more.

These are effective and hallowed recommenda tions, and we will include them here in our stan dard list of energy reviving tips. But we will also include some non-standard, more imaginative tips, some “hacks” that have less of a proven track re cord, but might be easier to stick with.

Standard Tips to Improve Your Energy

Most of the standard tips we list here should be no surprise to you. They are advised nearly univer sally. You are aware of them and even believe them. But the hard part is following them. However, they are continually being “improved” as new ways to implement them evolve.

Get Good Sleep

“Good sleep” used to be measured in hours. But now it’s about the quality of your sleep as much as its length. Entire books are devoted to sleep quali ty, but the least you can do is allow enough time in your schedule to find it. “I can get by on four hours a night,” is just delusional.

Eat Well

This subject is constantly being refined, but cur rent thinking includes eating complex carbs, rather than sugar, taking in more fiber and less ultra-pro cessed foods, and maintaining the right flora in your gut. Studies have shown that one of the first indicators your flora is off is fatigue.

Exercise

Here is another subject where the definition of getting “enough” or the “right” exercise is constant ly evolving. But things are getting easier. Taking regular 30-minute walks may be all you need. You might also get up and move as often as you can during the day.

Drink More Water

Fatigue can be an indicator of dehydration, and staying properly hydrated helps energize your mus cles and improve your outlook. The National Acad emies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine de termined that an adequate daily fluid intake (from all beverages and foods) is about 15.6 cups (3.7 liters) of fluids a day for men, and about 11.4 cups (2.7 liters) of fluids a day for women. Obviously, this will increase with exercise and temperature.

Limit Alcohol

Drinking none or a little is the way to go, de pending on who is advising. But if it is getting in the way of your sleep, performance or outlook, you are drinking too much.

Don’t Smoke

This is universally recommended, and you know the many reasons why.

Control Stress

Stress happens. You can’t avoid stress com pletely, only limit it and control your response to it. Consider taking up meditation, or at least taking regular breaks during the day to ponder nature or other beautiful or relaxing things. Put down the smart phone and get away from other screens.

Hacks for Increasing Energy

No claim is made here about the effectiveness of the following tips. We include them to broaden your horizons — and because they are easier than exercising or eating well.

Use Caffeine Strategically

While some would list cutting out caffeine com pletely as a standard tip, newer thinkers are advis ing using it strategically. But using too much can be counter-productive, and using it too late in the day might interfere with your sleep.

Snack Well

When your energy runs low, consider a power protein bar instead of potato chips.

Connect with People

For most people, socialization helps improve

mood and increase energy. And try to get some laughs in.

Expose Yourself to Natural Light

Studies have shown that exposure to natural light has positive effects on health and mood and ener gy. So, get at least 15 minutes of it a day.

Listen to Music

Stimulating (but not too stimulating) music can elevate mood and drown out distractions.

Visualize Your Day

Before you begin your day, take a few minutes to visualize, in detail, the tasks you want to accom plish. See yourself succeeding at them. You will be more efficient, effective and successful – and find yourself feeling energized by that success.

Stimulate Your Sense of Smell

Smelling cinnamon, or stimulating oils, such as peppermint, rosemary and eucalyptus, can increase alertness and elevate mood.

Chew Peppermint Gum

Chewing gum is known to increase alertness, and peppermint gum brings in a stimulating smell.

Massage Your Ears

Gently rubbing your ears will increase blood flow and stimulate nerves that will help keep you alert.

Wear orange lenses: For some people, brighten ing the colors around them can have a stimulating effect. But others might be overstimulated.

FROM THE CITY MANAGER

Hockey Season Officially Begins at The Cube!

By Ken Striplin Santa Clarita City Manager

The official start to hockey season is just around the corner, mark ing the kick-off of the win ter sports season. There is no better place to get into the icy spirit than at our very own ice facil ity — The Cube. All three ice rinks in the 93,000-square-foot facility offer residents and visitors a chance to participate in a wide variety of winter programs such as the always popular public skate sessions, Skating Academy, Parent and Me classes, pick-up hockey games and youth leagues, just to name a few. Each of these programs are specifically de signed for skaters of all skill levels, so you’ll be sure to find a program for everyone in the family.

The Cube is also the ideal spot to cheer on your favorite NHL team. With dozens of big-screen tele visions broadcasting games throughout the facility, you’re sure to find a prime spot to cheer on your team.

The Cube is also proud to be home (once again) to the UCLA Men’s Hockey Team. Throughout the next six months, make sure you come to the rink and cheer on the Bruins as they compete against

the University of Connecticut, Northern Arizo na University, Loyola Marymount University and rival favorite – the University of Southern Califor nia. Whether you are watching from the bleachers or prefer a table by The Grille, check out all of the food, drinks and snacks available onsite. Not only does The Grille serve hockey rink favorites, but they also have a wide variety of entrees from Maria’s Ital ian Deli. From mozzarella sticks to tacos, spaghetti and even eggplant parmesan, there is something for everyone at The Grille. If you would like to check out the menu or see the full list of UCLA Hockey games, visit TheCubeSantaClarita.com.

Later this year, The Cube will officially open the expanded area of The Grille. This enhanced bev erage center will welcome residents 21 and older and offer beer and wine. Whether you just finished practice or want to watch an NHL game, it’s the perfect space to sit back and relax. Additionally, the beverage center is just steps away from The Top Shelf. This event space is ideal for meetings, con ferences, galas, private parties and more. With the addition of the beverage center, residents and busi nesses can rent out both areas together, adding to the already fun and engaging atmosphere.

With the holiday season just around the corner, I encourage residents to follow The Cube and the City on their social media accounts to stay up-to-

date on upcoming events. This includes The Cube’s second annual Tree Lighting Ceremony on Decem ber 2. Enjoy spectacular holiday decorations and a stunning tree as the community comes together to countdown the official lighting. The following week, mark your calendars for the highly-anticipat ed Holiday Skate Show on December 10. This year, skaters of all ages will be performing the classic “How the Grinch Stole Christmas.” You won’t want to miss this family favorite event.

By following @thecubesantaclarita and @city ofsantaclarita on Facebook, Instagram and Twit ter, residents can learn more about these events, as well as drop-in classes, adult leagues, clinics, skate schools and the new junior high and high school nights. To register or to find more information on programming, please visit TheCubeSantaClarita. com.

I encourage everyone to enjoy all of the ameni ties available at The Cube this season. From NHL games and UCLA hockey matches to delicious food and exciting tournaments, there is no better place to bring the family for a day of fun out on the ice.

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

YOUR FAMILY MEALSSimplify

While the first step to a successful family meal is finding a recipe ev eryone loves, a second important piece to the puzzle is creating a dish that leaves enough time for special moments together at the table. You can skip complicated prep by serving easy-to-make favorites that call for versatile ingredients and simple instructions.

These Sheet Pan Hawaiian Veal Meatballs are a perfect example of a quick yet delicious meal your loved ones can enjoy without committing an entire evening to the kitchen. With veal as a key ingredi ent that cooks fast and easy, it’s ideal for weeknights and meal prepping ahead of busy weeks.

Plus, it’d be a cinch to double the meatballs and freeze half of them to make prep even easier the next time your family craves the sweet and savory combination of pineapple, fresh veggies and tender veal.

To find more quick, flavorful dinner inspiration, visit Veal.org. (Family Features)

Sheet Pan Hawaiian Veal Meatballs

Funded by Beef Farmers and Ranchers

Prep time 15 minutes

Cook time 30 minutes

Servings 6

Meatballs

2 pounds ground veal

1/2 cup plain breadcrumbs

1/4 cup milk

3 green onions, chopped

1 large egg

2 teaspoons garlic powder

1 1/2 teaspoons ground ginger

2 teaspoons kosher salt

1 cup Hawaiian barbecue sauce, plus additional for serving, divided

Vegetables

1 small head broccoli, cut into florets

1 small red bell pepper, seeded and cut into 1/2-inch slices

1 small yellow bell pepper, seeded and cut into 1/2-inch slices

1 small red onion, cut into 1/2-inch slices

1 small pineapple, cut into 1-inch chunks

2 tablespoons olive oil kosher salt, to taste

freshly ground black pepper, to taste

2 green onions, for garnish

2 teaspoons sesame seeds, for garnish

6 cups cooked long-grain white rice

To make meatballs Preheat oven to 450 F and line two rimmed baking sheets with parchment paper. In large bowl, mix veal, breadcrumbs, milk, green onions, egg, garlic powder, ginger and salt until just combined. Portion veal mixture into 2-inch balls. Place in even layer on prepared baking sheets.

Bake about 15 minutes. Remove from oven.

To make vegetables Toss broccoli, bell peppers, red onion, pineapple and oil together until coated. Season with salt and pepper, to taste.

Arrange vegetables in single layer on baking sheets with meatballs. Flip meatballs and brush with sauce. Bake until vegetables are tender and meat balls are golden-brown, or until inter nal temperature reaches 160 F, about 15 minutes.

Drizzle with barbecue sauce. Top with green onions and sesame seeds. Serve with rice.

Carefree Highway — Gordon Lightfoot at The Canyon

After 50 active years of hit song making and inter national album sales well into the multi-millions, it’s safe to say that esteemed sing er-songwriter and musician Gordon Lightfoot resides with some very ex clusive company atop the list of alltime greats.

His song catalog is incredibly vast and includes such immortals as

“Early Morning Rain,” “If You Could Read My Mind,” “Carefree Highway,” “Sundown,” “(That’s What You Get) For Lovin Me,” “The Wreck Of The Edmund Fitzgerald,” “Cold On The Shoulder”, “Canadian Railroad Tril ogy,” “Ribbon Of Darkness,” “Beau tiful,” “Song For A Winter’s Night”, “Shadows”, “Rainy Day People”, “Did She Mention My Name” and “Sum mertime Dream” to name a few.

Gordon Lightfoot has recorded 20 albums and has five Grammy nominations. His songs have been aired regularly for 50 years, earning him Radio Singles Chart Positions in North America achieved by few others. Lightfoot’s radio hits in the USA have earned Five #1s, Five Top 10s and Thirteen Top 40 hits. In Canada he has earned Sixteen #1s, Eighteen Top 10s and Twenty One

Top 40 hits.

You can see Gordon Lightfoot live at The Canyon Santa Clarita on De cember 2. Tickets are available online through AXS, over the phone at (888) 645-5006, and in person at the Can yon Santa Clarita box office. For more information, visit www.wheremusic meetsthesoul.com.

The Story Behind the GameStop Phenomenon

By Richard Roeper Signal Contributing Writer

‘Eat the Rich: The Gamestop Saga’  (out of four)

A three-part documentary available Wednesday on Netflix.

Remember those great cam eos in “The Big Short,” when the likes of Selena Go mez, Margot Robbie and the late Anthony Bourdain would break the fourth wall to explain arcane ter minology such as “synthetic collat eralized debt obligation”? The threepart Netflix documentary series “Eat the Rich: The GameStop Saga” takes a similar approach in explaining the GameStop stock phenomenon — not via splashy cameos by big celebs, but with a straightforward and clear and entertainingly breezy approach that follows the bouncing stock prices in one of the most bizarre financial sto ries of our time.

As Denzel Washington’s Joe Mill er in “Philadelphia” would put it, they explain it to us like we’re 6-year-olds, and somehow make sense out of the David vs. Goliath battle pitting a group of smart, subversive, motivated Red dit users against Wall Street giants. Through an entertaining mix of inter views with hedge fund managers, jour nalists and retail investors who explain the phenomenon from different sides, augmented by a steady stream of clear and concise graphics and clips of often hilariously clever viral videos, “Eat the Rich” walks us through the madness of the GameStop story, and we come out on the other side understanding what happened.

Well. Most of what happened.

The GameStop story has been told in a couple of previous documenta ries and will be given the fictional treatment in the upcoming feature “Dumb Money,” starring Seth Ro gen, Pete Davidson, Sebastian Stan and Paul Dano. In this entry, director Theo Love takes us through the time line and around the country to tell the story, which starts in 2020, with Jim Cramer of TV fame waking up after being sidelined for a week after back surgery, learning to his amaze ment that GameStop was soaring and jumping on the phone to proclaim on CNBC, “There isn’t anyone involved

with GameStop who would accept the fact that this company should be at $338. … Take the home run, don’t go for the grand slam! You’ve already won! You’ve won the game!”

Cramer thought he was doing inves tors a favor, but he quickly became the target of a thousand memes and a zil lion trolling comments. “I don’t even understand what I did,” says Cram er. “What’d I do? What is their mis sion? What are they determined to do, change the face of capitalism?”

This is a common theme through out the series: The older establish ment, including hedge fund managers, traditional wealthy investors, TV com mentators and eventually Congress, didn’t understand what they were up against, i.e., a group of retail investors — aka day traders — who congregat ed on Reddit and used the app Rob inHood to make their investments. In the eyes of heavy hitters such as Gabe Plotkin, the founder of Melvin Capital Management who had placed a $400 million short bet on Nintendo, creaky old GameStop (which specialized in reselling used video games) was going to become the next Blockbuster or Sam Goody. The short sale was on. (As Bob Sloan, founder of S3 Data Part ners, explains, “Shorting is just a way of saying we think the stock price will go down.”) What the giants didn’t en vision was an attack of sorts from an army of Reddit users who had other plans.

We meet retail investors such as Ed die Koo of Englewood, New Jersey, a family man who was trying to make a few extra bucks during the pandemic;

Mikey Guggenheim, a retail investor who looks a bit like Will Ferrell’s char acter in “Zoolander” and performs a rap number about the GameStop sto ry; and Alvan Chow, an amateur spec ulator who couldn’t get a job on Wall Street but turned his $25,000 invest ment in GameStop into $8 million.

How did GameStop become such a phenomenon? It’s not as if its busi ness model suddenly pivoted and the company started reaping huge profits. It was more of a confluence of events. A legendary and enormously popular retail investor known as “DeepF-----Value” on Reddit and as “Roaking Kit ty” on YouTube put out a video saying he was making a big bet on GameStop. Ryan Cohen, co-founder of Chewy. com, announced he was buying 9% of the company. The billionaire venture capitalist Chamath Palihapitiya sent out a Tweet asking what he should buy next, and hundreds of users of the subreddit known as wallstreetbets sug gested GameStop. Elon Musk got in on

the fun, tweeting, “Gamestonk!”

The “short squeeze” was real, and it was spectacular.

At times, the movement seemed to have little to do with GameStop, al though many were starting to believe the company was undervalued. Other than a few viral videos in Episode One chronicling the demise of a couple of GameStop outlets, we never visit a GameStop store, or hear from its em ployees or board members. It was more about sticking it to The Man — in this case, the powerful short sellers who were banking on GameStop failing, and instead found themselves losing a collective $20 billion. GameStop stock kept soaring, in January of 2021 reach ing an intraday stock price of $483, when it had been at $2.57 less than a year earlier. The party essentially end ed when the RobinHood app halted the buying of GameStop, and the rea sons behind that are … complicated.

But explained quite clearly in “Eat the Rich.”

PHOTO COURTESY IMDB

GARDENING

Spring and summer are per haps the busiest times of year for gardeners. However, fall also is a prime time to tend to gardens.

The tree and bare root retailer Bower & Branch advises that soil temperatures in many regions of the country may still be warm enough to encourage root growth well into the start of winter. Furthermore, fall is often the ideal time to plant, fertilize and keep a garden going or to get a head start on next year’s bounty.

Here are some tips to make the most of the fall gardening season.

Think about fall annuals and bulb planting Near the end of September, start planting cool-weather-loving pansies and violas for pops of color as summer flowers fade. Also, it’s a good idea to stock up on bulbs that will bloom in the months to come before they sell out in stores. Wait until the temperatures really cool down before planting them in desired spots.

Sow salad seeds Lettuce, spinach, radishes, and arugula tolerate cooler temperatures. Try new and interest ing lettuce varieties and enjoy salads well into the fall season.

Take inventory of the sun Position ing a garden carefully means maxi mizing hours of sunlight, which be gin to dwindle in the fall. Experts say gardens grow best in sunny locations that receive six hours of direct sun light each day.

Fill in landscaping gaps Some fall

Planting and Maintenance

mow them with a grass catcher and then add the mix to a vegetable gar den as an excellent soil insulator. The nitrogen and carbon will fertilize the soil, enhancing growing possibilities and limiting weed growth.

plants can add color around the land scape and brighten up homes to add curb appeal. In addition to pansies and violas, asters, kale and chrysan themums are fall blooms. Keep in mind that mums can come back year after year. So take them out of those flower pots and get them into the ground..

Clean up unwanted growth Fall is an ideal time to cut back spent veg etable plants and get rid of errant weeds. Rather than bagging leaves,

Propagate plants in the fall As tem peratures gradually begin to cool, start taking cuttings from perenni als, gathering seed pods from azaleas and rhododendrons and dividing hardwood cuttings, says the resource Gardening Know How. Consult with a garden center or horticulturist on the proper ways to propagate stems using rooting hormone and other techniques.

Continue to water plants Water is essential in the fall and winter as roots can still be growing. Gradually reduce watering duration as plants go dormant.

Fall planting and maintenance can extend gardening season and improve the chances of growing a healthy spring garden. (MC)

Home trends come and go. Today’s must-have items tend to be come tomorrow’s outdated features in the blink of an eye.

Homeowners who plan to stay in their current homes for years to come needn’t prioritize modern trends over personal prefer ences. However, homeowners looking to sell their homes can consider these favored features to increase their properties’ appeal to modern buyers.

Separate Laundry Room

According to the National Association of Home Builders’ 2021 What Home Buyers Really Want report, a separate room dedicated to laundry was the most desired feature among prospective home buyers.

Though it might not inspire the awe of an out door living room or floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking a wooded backyard, a laundry room fills a direct and universal need. Perhaps that’s why 87% of buyers want a room dedicated to laundry in a home.

Exterior Lighting

Drive through a modern suburban neighborhood at night and it won’t take long before you realize the pop ularity of exterior lighting. And that’s no coincidence, as homeowners ev erywhere appear to embrace exterior lighting.

The NAHB report indicates that ex terior lighting is the most sought-after outdoor feature. The good news for prospective sellers is that exterior lighting is an inexpensive and instant way to transform a property at night.

Some solar-powered lighting along walkways and outside the front door can make a home feel more safe, while some uplighting of large trees in the back yard can produce a sight to behold once the sun goes down.

Energy-Efficient Upgrades

Inflation has driven up the cost of just about everything over the last yearplus, and energy is no exception. So it should come as no surprise that 83% of prospective home buyers are looking for energy-efficient windows and appli ances in a home.

These features save money and benefit the planet, making them a win-win among buyers.

Patio

Patio spaces have long been popular, but that popularity reached new heights during the pandemic. When forced to stay at home for long periods of time, millions of people longed for ways to spend more time outdoors without breaking lockdown rules.

Patios provide outdoor living spaces, and 82% of buyers indicated they wanted a patio with their next property.

Side-by-Side Sink

A double or side-by-side sink is among the more affordable features buyers are looking for. At less than $1,000 on average, a side-by-sink is an affordable way to make a home more appealing to modern buyers.

Modern buyers want a lot out of their homes, and sellers can do their best to meet those desires while getting the most money for their properties.

SENIOR LIVING

If you are living with pain and discomfort in your feet, legs, thighs or butt, it may be a sign of a serious health problem. Many adults in the United States are suffering and may be at risk of am putations of their toes, feet or legs as a result of an undetected disease known as peripheral artery disease (PAD).

PAD affects the blood vessels out side the heart, reducing blood flow to the area with the diseased blood vessel. In the most common type of PAD, lower extremity PAD, blood flow is reduced to your legs and feet.

Learning more about PAD is im portant for detecting problems and getting early treatment so you can avoid devastating complications such as amputation or even death. Learn more about PAD, including symp toms, risk factors and treatment, from the experts at the American Heart Association:

Symptoms

The most common symptoms of PAD are burning, aching, numb ness, fatigue or discomfort in your leg or hip muscles while walking. The symptoms are caused by your legs not getting the blood they need. This pain usually goes away with rest and returns when you are active again.

“These symptoms can impact a per son’s quality of life, making it difficult to walk and hard to do usual activities at home and work,” said Amy W. Pol lak, MD, American Heart Association volunteer expert serving as a leader of the national PAD Collaborative and cardiovascular medicine physician at Mayo Clinic. “For some, PAD can

progress to cause pain when you are resting and even amputation of your toe, foot or leg.”

Risk Factors

PAD affects more than 8.5 mil lion people in the U.S., the majori ty of whom are 65 years and older, according to the American Heart Association. Approximately 46-68% of patients with PAD also have coro nary artery disease or cerebrovascular disease.

“We see PAD more commonly in people living with diabetes, people who smoke and people with other common risk factors for heart dis ease, like high cholesterol, high blood pressure and obesity,” Pollak said.

Prevention and Treatment

While some causes of PAD are be yond your control, the best method to prevent PAD is managing risk factors by making lifestyle changes including quitting smoking, managing diabetes and high blood pressure, staying ac tive and eating a heart-healthy diet.

Working closely with your health care professional at the first sign of PAD is an important step in achiev ing the best treatment outcomes and avoiding serious complications like amputation.

“PAD is a lifelong medical condi tion, but people with PAD can lead active and long lives,” Pollak said. “If you notice walking is more difficult, keeping up with others is hard or you have pain when you walk, talk with a doctor and describe when it happens and how it feels. Don’t be afraid to get a second opinion.”

Visit heart.org/PAD to learn more. (Family Features)

PHOTO CREDIT GETTY IMAGES

Healthy Habits for a Healthy Weight

Physical activity is key to improving your health and preventing serious illness. You may want to forget juic ing, fasting, and fad diets, and in stead focus on being healthy and fit.

“When you eat right and exercise regularly, maintaining a healthy weight can happen naturally,” said Alyssa Bar tholomew, a registered dietitian and health educator at Kaiser Permanente in Panorama City. “If you’re not active right now, start small and build up over time — moderate activity is safe for most people.”

Fill Up With Fiber

High-fiber foods fill you up without filling you out. Getting enough fiber each day can help you lose weight, regulate your blood sugar, and lower your cholesterol — all without count ing calories

Make Time to Move

Cutting calories can help you lose weight but keeping it off long-term is a different story. Exercise is a must — aim for at least 30 minutes of physical activity, 5 times a week, to keep lost pounds from coming back.*

Rethink Your Drinks

There’s more to maintaining your weight than watching what’s on your plate. Calories from soda, juice, and alcohol add up fast. Switch to mostly water to help keep your weight from creeping up over time.

Finally, remember it’s always a good idea to talk to your doctor before you start an exercise program.

For more information about weight management, visit the Kaiser Perma nente website at kp.org/weight.

*American Heart Association Rec ommendations for Physical Activity in Adults and Kids, American Heart Associ ation, 2018, heart.org.

Comfort Keepers In-Home Care

Comfort Keepers has been caring for se niors in their home for over 21 years. They’ve earned the reputation as a pre mier provider of quality in-home care. In fact, readers of The Signal have voted Comfort Keepers BEST In-Home care for 12 consecutive years!

Comfort Keepers is a licensed Home Care Or ganization (HCO) locally owned and operated by Myles McNamara, certified senior advisor. Their goal is to enable seniors remain in the privacy and comfort of their own home for as long as possible.

Often, all that’s needed is a helping hand with daily tasks, including but not limited to, medica tion reminders, bathing/showering assistance, meal preparation, light housekeeping, laundry, transpor tation (beauty salon, doctors, etc.), grocery shop ping, companionship, grooming guidance, recre ational activities and more.

Comfort Keepers is also crucial after discharge from a hospital stay to safely transition home and avoid a preventable readmission. They are also in strumental in lowering stress for family members juggling their own busy lives and work schedules around attending to a loved one’s needs.

Their service provides peace of mind knowing these needs and daily activities are being taken care

of. It will allow quality time to be spent with loved ones, rather than attending to chores.

If falling is a concern, hydration, nutrition, medi cation schedule, etc., just knowing someone is with them can make all the difference. Their Caregiv ers are also specifically trained for Alzheimer’s and Dementia care.

Although their clients are primarily seniors, ser vices are available for anyone over the age of 18 experiencing difficulties with daily tasks because of illness or injury. Offering In-Home Care for se niors, and anyone 18 and older recovering from ill ness or injury. Servicing the Santa Clarita and San Fernando Valleys, with office in Santa Clarita and Encino.

Comfort Keepers is located at 23900 Lyons Ave, Santa Clarita 91321. Their phone number is (661) 287-4200 and the website is ComfortKeepers.

Healthy Habits For Your Daily Life

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

Some healthy habits, like daily exercise, can

Skyline Smiles

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

Dr. Harleen completed her dental education at the University of South ern California, where she was recog nized on the dean’s list. She complet ed her Residency and received her specialty certificate in pediatric den tistry from Lutheran Medical Center in Holyoke, MA.

Being a Board Certified Pediat ric Dentist and having 2 children of her own, Dr. Harleen understands the importance of making children feel comfortable and look forward to their dental visits. A clean and orga nized dental office can do wonders for calming anxiety and fear. Her pri mary goal is to make every visit to the

dental office as friendly, streamlined and convenient as possible.

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

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

Skyline Smiles is located at 28532 La Madrid Dr Suite B, Santa Clarita, 91350. The phone number is (661) 228-6077 and their website is skyline smile.com

Bennett’s Honey Farm is a family owned honey process ing operation. Visit our retail store and see all of our honey varieties. Similar to shopping for wine, you will find that each honey has its own personality and bouquet.

We offer 100% raw, unfiltered honey from the flowers of Or ange, Sage, Wildflower, Avoca do, Eucalyptus, Buckwheat and Clover as well as Cactus honey. Additionally, we offer Hon eycomb packed in one pound squares and comb chunk in glass jars. Bennett’s Honey Farm is a full service commercial hon ey packing facility that offers extracting services as well as custom and/or private labeling options.

Produced in the beautiful Her itage Valley of Ventura Coun ty, we at Bennett’s Honey Farm

have been awarded blue ribbons at both the Los Angeles and Ventura County Fairs. We bottle our honey under the Topanga Quality Honey© label. Find us at Whole Foods Market, Ralphs, Fresh and Easy and many other specialty markets.

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

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

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

Incorporating healthy living changes into our lives can help us and our families feel better, prevent or delay chronic diseases and save us money. Samuel Dixon Family Health Cen ter, Inc., offers the Santa Clarita Valley communi ty two life style change programs facilitated by a bilingual, Certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialist.

Our virtual pre-diabetes classes received full National Diabetes Prevention Program Recogni tion from the CDC and offer weekly education and group support. The classes, geared towards increas ing awareness on prevention of Diabetes by setting and meeting goals and incorporating small incre mental lifestyle changes, can make a difference in ourselves and our families health.

We encourage participation by providing a safe space to engage and learn from each other to make positive, lasting changes.

We also offer a bilingual, weekly program to sup port persons with Diabetes achieve better glycemic control through education. This involves making healthy food choices, becoming more active, learn ing to monitor glucose levels, taking medication, problem solving, healthy coping and reducing long term risks. We incorporate continuous glucose monitor support, and collaborate with their health

care provider to monitor medications. We encour age our members to get involved and be active in their health by addressing misconceptions, becom ing familiar with their HgbA1c, blood pressure tar get, cholesterol/cardiovascular risk, renal function and yearly foot exams.

Our providers and our Certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialist are here to guide you through your health journey and help with any fears, issues or challenges you encounter along the way.

Please join us!

Samuel Dixon Family Health Center has three lo cations, one each in Canyon Country, Newhall and Val Verde. For more information, visit https://www. sdfhc.org.

HABITS

Continued from page 18

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

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

Drink more water The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention notes that water helps the body maintain a normal temperature, lubri cates and cushions joints, protects the spinal cord

See

, page 24

HEALTHY LIVING

Mind Body Infusion

Mind Body Infusion is a full-service wellness resource serving men and women both in and around Santa Clarita, California. The practice, under the leadership of Yuvraj Grewal, MD, is staffed with some of the best medical and aes thetics professionals in the region, all of whom share a dedication to en hancing lives.

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

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

From chemical peels to medical-

HEALTHY

Continued from page 22

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

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

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

The office setting is designed for comfort and is intended to provide a peaceful, welcoming environment. Clients are encouraged to relax and enjoy their time at Mind Body Infu sion, especially in light of the stress and uncertainties of modern life.

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

Mind Body Infusion Med Spa is lo cated at 28532 La Madrid Dr Suite C, Santa Clarita 91350. The phone num ber is (661) 402-8604; mindbody infusion.com.

around the neighborhood each morn ing coupled with a 15-minute walk after dinner can help adults dramati cally improve their overall health.

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

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

Five Steps for Women to Reduce Their Risk of COPD

If you’re a woman who tries to stay healthy, you may exercise several times per week, watch what you eat and get 7-9 hours of sleep each night. But are you lis tening to your lungs?

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), a leading cause of disability and death in the United States, takes an especially heavy toll on women. You may think problems like shortness of breath, frequent coughs or wheezing are just signs of getting older, but it’s important to pay attention to these symptoms and dis cuss them with your doctor.

COPD is a serious lung disease that causes breathing problems and worsens over time. It has often been considered a man’s disease. Yet more U.S. women than men have been di agnosed with COPD in the past de cade, and over the past 20 years more women have died from it, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Con trol and Prevention.

Women tend to develop COPD

earlier in life than men and are more likely to have severe symptoms and be hospitalized with the disease. The good news? According to the Nation al Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk for COPD.

Don’t Smoke

You probably already know ciga rette smoking is harmful — but did you know that women may be more vulnerable to the effects of smok ing? Women who smoke tend to get COPD at younger ages and with less cigarettes smoked than men. COPD is the leading cause of death among

U.S. women smokers.

If you do smoke, it’s never too late to quit.

Avoid Pollutants

Among people with COPD who have never smoked, most are wom en. Women may be more vulnerable to indoor and outdoor air pollution. Women’s smaller lungs and airways mean the same amount of inhaled pollutants may cause more damage.

Working in places like nail salons, hair salons or dry cleaners can expose you to harmful chemicals. If you’re exposed to chemical fumes at your job, talk to your employer about ways

to limit exposure. Better ventilation and wearing a mask can help.

Stay Current on Vaccines

People at risk for COPD are more likely to have serious problems result ing from some vaccine-preventable diseases. Ask a health care provid er about getting vaccinated against the flu, pneumococcal disease and COVID-19.

Talk to Your Doctor

Women with COPD tend to be diagnosed later than men when the disease is more severe and treat ments are less effective. If you think you could be at risk, or you are hav ing symptoms, bring it up with your health care provider. Treatment can ease symptoms and improve your ability to exercise.

Learn More to Breathe Better

Find more information on COPD from NHLBI’s Learn More Breathe Better® program at copd.nhlbi.nih. gov.(Family Features)

The Future of In-Person Banking

From digital payments to video banking, the way consumers conduct basic financial transactions has changed substantially throughout the past de cade, and the COVID-19 pandemic has only accel erated the trend toward digital banking.

However, brick-andmortar bank branches continue to play an essen tial role for many consum ers when it comes to im portant financial conversations.

The Right Mix

Industry experts say more chang es are coming down the pike to meet consumers’ evolving needs and to provide the right mix of digital tools and experiences, with more person alized human interactions at brickand-mortar bank locations.

Leading the charge in implement ing some of these changes is one of the largest diversified financial services institutions in the United States, PNC, which is embarking on a multi-year conversion of its retail branch network in response to feed back and insights gleaned from its customers.

Between May 2022 and the end of 2026, more than 60% of its 2,600 branches nationwide will convert to a new format.

Automated and Self-Service

Basic financial transactions will begin to be completed using auto

mated or self-service solutions, such as ATMs and video banking, freeing bankers’ time to hold more in-depth conversations and truly engage with customers in offering fi nancial advice, expertise, and solutions to help them meet their financial goals.

“We remain committed to making a positive dif ference for our customers and communities, and to helping all move forward financially,” says Kevin McCann, retail growth and innovation executive for PNC.

“We believe the balance we will be striking between physical and digital banking will allow us to meet our customers where they are by pro viding that sweet spot of convenient digital tools and meaningful side-byside personal interactions.”

Tech Saavy Not Required

Those who are less comfortable with the latest technologies and who may be feeling anxious about these changes can put their concerns aside, according to McCann, who notes that bankers also will be available to spend time helping customers un derstand the digital tools available to them, within and outside of the branch.

To learn more about the evolution of branch banking, visit www.pnc. com.

At a time when both physical fa cilities and digital tools are critical to banking customers, a new way for ward is emerging. (StatePoint)

Changes will “provide the right mix of digital tools and experiences …”

Donna’s

Creative Family Fun

Make Apple-Head Puppets for Fall Fun

By Donna Erickson Signal Contributing Writer

If you find a few soft, bruised apples hiding behind the pick le and mayo jars in the back of your refrigerator or discover some cast-offs at your local orchard or farmer’s market, consider them perfect for this activity.

Peel, carve and dry them for ap ple-head puppets. And, skip the Bo tox. The more wrinkles they have, the better!

Here’s the stuff you’ll need for a puppet:

‰ 1/4 cup lemon juice

‰ 1 tablespoon salt

‰ 1 apple, peeled

‰ Wooden ice-cream or craft stick

‰ Pumpkin carving knife or paring knife

‰ Whole cloves, apple seeds, beans

or rice to fill facial features

First, stir together the lemon juice and salt in a small bowl. Roll the peeled apple in the lemon mixture until it is completely covered. Remove it and pat dry. Insert a wooden stick into the bottom of the apple.

Hold the stick in your hand and carefully carve out eyes, nose, ears and a mouth. An adult may need to assist younger children with this. Poke cloves or rice into the cutouts to retain the shapes.

Dry the apple in an oven at 200 de grees Fahrenheit for 4-5 hours. Leave the door slightly ajar. The fruit will harden and shrink as it dries.

Or, you may partially oven-dry for an hour or two, then let it air-dry for several days. With no oven heat at all, it will take about two weeks to dry them in a dry place, but not in direct sunlight. You will no doubt be amazed at the dramatic, shrunken transformation!

A creative way to make fall-themed puppets is to use bruised apples.

Decorate the dried apple head with colorful raffia or ribbon for hair, trin kets for the ears and nose, and paint ed details for the mouth and cheeks.

Gather fabric and tie, or hand-sew, around the top of the stick to make the puppet’s body and clothing.

For arms, glue two extra sticks to the main stick, extending outward.

Ready-made doll clothes and accesso ries can embellish the look you wish to create, too.

While you are at it, make sever al puppets, such as a smiling clown, an alien or a princess. Let your kids give them names and present an ap ple-head puppet show by holding onto the stick inside the clothing to maneuver the character.

TIP When not in use, poke the main stick into a block of florist foam so that the puppets stand upright and provide a whimsical decoration for your child’s room.

Donna Erickson’s award-winning se ries “Donna’s Day” is airing on public television nationwide. To find more of her creative family recipes and activi ties, 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.”  © 2022 Donna Erickson Distributed by King Features Synd.

PUZZLES

CROSSWORD

Opinion

READER LETTERS

Democracy vs. Republic

Re: Letters, Brian Richards, Sept. 20.

Among other things, in his letter, Brian states that “we are not a democracy.” is is true, as far as it goes! We are a democratic republic. In a republic, we have representatives who vote for us in the public body (or public bodies) that run our country. In a complete democracy, every time there was something that required a decision, everyone, all 330 million of us, would have to get together and vote yea or nay. So in our democratic republic, we get together periodical ly to decide who our representatives are to be. ese gatherings that we call elections are what we know as democracy.

ere has arisen a portion of our populace that would prefer to have a “strong man,” like Fulgencio Batista in Cuba (pre-Castro), or Ferdinand Marcos in the Philippines. Donald Trump is cut from that same cloth. e problem is that it is impossible to separate what the strong man is doing for our bene t, from what he does to bene t himself and his friends. We also have no peaceful way to replace the strong man.

Brian also says that those of us on the le consider “election deniers” to be treasonists! Treason is a military term pertaining to giving “aid and comfort to the enemy.” I nd it telling that for over 200 years we have had a peaceful transition of power. Until we had to take into account Donald Trump’s fragile ego. More than 60 court cases, at all levels of court, were led. All were dismissed due to lack of evidence. If you are comfortable with denying the 2020 election, at least do so with some evidence or examples of fraud. Saying some thing over and over again does not make it true. Abraham Lincoln spoke of a government “of, by, and for the people.” Election deniers are at best “anti-constitutionalists,” possibly pro-authoritarian, not traitors. So come on, Brian, “Put up or shut up!”

In another arena, I was told by a signature gatherer outside Trader Joe’s that the le had an agenda to destroy California and then the United States. He stated that the Republicans had a “plan” to “make America Great Again!” Websters de nes an agenda as a plan. We are using an ill-de ned connotation as a further way to separate us. If we are going to argue, at least make it over something real!

Gary Morrison Valencia

ETHICALLY SPEAKING

Nobility Demands Morality

Selective Descriptions of reats?

Q: Who does our current president consider a threat to democra cy?

A: A citizen who expresses concerns about the integrity of an elec tion that is not the 2000 election, the 2004 election, the 2016 election, or the last Georgia governor’s election.

Rob Kerchner Santa Clarita

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, e Signal, 25060 Avenue Stanford, Suite 141, Santa Clarita, CA 91355.

Iguess

it’s my turn to re ect on the seemingly unending parade of mass murders that has passed by our stunned souls over the past several years. Several things cause me grave concern.

First, I worry we will, as a nation, become anesthe tized to the absolute horror perpetrated by hate- lled, fame-seeking, evil people who decide to star in their own violent real-life video game.

Second, I worry the surging tsunami of misguided pundits who chalk these trage dies up to the “right to bear arms” or mental illness will so ood our society that better, more rational thinking will be completely washed away.

ird, I worry we’ve completely lost any concept of personal responsibility, as if those who plan and carry out violence are somehow non-humans, devoid of guilt, and unaccountable to society’s moral standards.

As unbelievable as it is, they are most o en seen as victims of unfortunate circumstanc es rather than wicked, sinful, free moral agents who must be held accountable for their actions.

Fourth, I worry the legacy of scienti c naturalism, which argues all things can be accounted for through purely physical pro cesses, has le several generations with the mistaken belief that life is a set of random situations, with no goal, and no purpose. By refusing to accept the possibility that the existence of non-material elements (eg. con sciousness) in the make-up of our humanity argues powerfully for the existence of the supernatural (God), evolutionary materi alism has whisked away any reason to live morally, or to stay living at all.

Fi h, I worry my generation has a frontrow seat on the devolution of American nobility. Remember how it used to be? Re member when America was the shining city on the hill? Remember when we stood for all that was right and good and noble? Re member when America was a global power for the preservation of life rather than the world leader in ending viable lives for the purpose of selling them for parts? Remem ber when you could let your kid walk home from school, or ride her bike around the block, or go door to door selling chocolate

bars for her soccer team?

I remember when we shouted “these colors don’t run,” though now on the global stage neither our allies nor our enemies are afraid of us. I re member when criminals were punished and law enforcement o cers were honored and appreciated. I remember when saluting the ag, taking o my cap, and placing my hand over my heart to pledge allegiance were a set of noble gestures that stirred my civic pride. I also re member when prayers to God for the safety of our soldiers, our police, our o cials, and our society were both common and honor able. And I remember when 9/11 brought us together in churches all over America to beseech our God to “shed his grace” on us.

e problem is much larger than gun control policies or improved mental health screenings could ever hope to solve. We can try to force external compulsion with all our vigor, but rules and policies will have no e ect on the decaying morality of hearts devoid of hope. And if we keep doing what we’re doing, and trying what we’re trying, we’ll keep getting what we’ve got.

What we need is a radical return to indi vidual accountability, grounded on a shared conviction that good and evil exist, because a supernatural standard has been set by the eternal, intelligent, and moral creator of all things who is, himself, the uncaused cause of all things. What we need is the hope that springs from a realization we’ve been created for a purpose, our lives have great meaning, and despite the brokenness of so ciety, we can nd satisfaction in this world even as we prepare for the next.

From where I sit, it is clear our American sense of nobility is waning. We’re killing our kids, and killing each other, even as we continue to whistle and smile as if nothing has changed. But something has changed, and not for the better. What we really need is for God to bless America. But that will only happen if America gets back to bless ing God.

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

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