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JANUARY 7, 2024

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J A N UA RY 7, 2024

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 3

TABLE OF CONTENTS

NEWS FEATURES

5 Staying Fit and Healthy 6 Recycling Just About Everything! TRAVEL

4 Control Your Blood Pressure

7 Nature Preserve and Tar Pits in Carpinteria

CITY MANAGER 8 City Hosts the Spectacular ‘The Big I Do’ Event ENTERTAINMENT

FOOD

HEALTH

FINANCE

CELEBRITY EXTRA BOOK REVIEWS PETS

13 13 14

HOME

GARDENING

SENIOR LIVING

PUZZLES OPINION David Hegg

18 19

9 ‘The Color Purple’

10 Solve Winter Blues with These Cozy Recipes Smoky German Potato, Sausage and Bacon Chili Tuscan 3 Bean Peasant Soup 11 Mind Your Mental Health 12 Today’s Trends in Home Buying

14 Pets’ Oral Health First Dental Health Appointment 15 Home Exterior Trends 16 The Advantages of Raised Garden Beds 17 Senior Health Concerns

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4 · S U N D AYS I G N A L

J A N UA RY 7, 2024

N E W S F E AT U R E

TAKE CONTROL of your BLOOD PRESSURE

hat you eat and drink, as well as your activity level and habits, affect your heart and brain health and are essential for managing blood pressure, cholesterol and more. High blood pressure (readings consistently higher than 130/80 mm Hg) is a leading cause and controllable risk factor for heart disease and stroke as well as other issues such as kidney failure, vision loss and sexual problems. In fact, nearly half of all American adults have high blood pressure, or hypertension, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, but many may not even realize they have it unless they experience other complications. What’s more, ethnicity can also play a role in your risk factors. For example, Hispanic adults have some of the highest prevalence of poorly controlled blood pressure, according to the American Heart Association, which is one of the major risk factors for heart disease. Due to longstanding systemic barriers, such as a historic lack of access to health care and nutritious foods, the Hispanic and Latino community

PHOTO COURTESY GETTY IMAGES

is disproportionately affected by heart disease and related health issues. Additionally, Black women of childbearing age are more than twice as likely to have uncontrolled blood pressure than their white counterparts, according to research published in a special Go Red for Women issue of the “Journal of the American Heart Association.” Food insecurity, or lack of access to adequate healthy food options, is also higher among Hispanic and Black women compared to white women, and one of the social factors that may impact high blood pressure risk. To help maintain blood pressure below 120/80 mm Hg and manage risk factors, the American Heart Association with national support from Elevance Health Foundation recommends these lifestyle changes. Maintain a healthy weight. If you’re overweight or obese, you’re at increased risk of high blood pressure. Losing as few as 10 pounds (or 3-5% of your body weight) can provide health benefits, including lowering or preventing high blood pressure. Talk to your health care provider about a healthy approach to weight loss, including caloric intake and activities that may help both lose and maintain weight. Eat healthier. Eating fruits and vegetables, such as mangos, avocados and blueberries, can lower blood pressure over time. Other smart choices include nuts and seeds, whole grains, low-fat dairy, lean proteins and fish. The Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension, or DASH, eating plan is geared toward reducing blood pressure and helps create a heart-healthy eating style.

Reduce sodium. Americans consume up to 75% of their sodium from processed foods like soups, tomato sauce, condiments and canned goods. To help cut back, read labels when shopping and choose lower-sodium versions of your favorite foods, skip the table salt and consider spices and herbs as seasoning alternatives. Manage stress. Stress is known to contribute to risk factors for high blood pressure like poor diet and excessive alcohol consumption. Practicing relaxation techniques, such as yoga or deep breathing, practicing gratitude and doing things you enjoy can help reduce stress. Get active. Physical activity not only helps control high blood pressure, it also aids in weight management, strengthens your heart and lowers stress levels. The American Heart Association recommends at least 150 minutes per week of moderate-intensity physical activity, such as brisk walking. Limit alcohol. Drinking too much alcohol can raise your blood pressure. If you drink, limit consumption to no more than two drinks per day for men and one drink per day for women. Quit smoking. Every time you smoke, it causes a temporary increase in blood pressure. Both smoking and exposure to secondhand smoke also increase the risk for plaque buildup inside the arteries, a process high blood pressure is known to accelerate. Find more advice for managing your blood pressure at Heart.org/highbloodpressure. (Family Features) 

J A N UA RY 7, 2024

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 5

N E W S F E AT U R E

Six Ways To Stay Fit and Healthy in the New Year By Anna Ryan Special for The Signal

T year.

here’s no need to sacrifice a fun time at during the year for your health; experts at setforset.com have highlighted six ways to stay fit and healthy in the new

Plan Exercise in Advance

The new year is undoubtedly chaotic, whether you’re shopping or catching up with friends and family — but with a hectic schedule, it can feel challenging to fit in some physical activity. Decide which days work best for you to run errands or socialize. Once you have prioritized these plans and added them to your calendar, you can figure out the days you have free time for exercise, whether that be a morning, afternoon, or even a whole day. By taking an organized approach, you avoid neglecting fitness while ensuring that you have time for other activities.

Stick to Full-Body Workouts

It’s natural to have less time over the holidays for working out so that you can make the most of it — but if you tend to feel guilty over lack of exercise, completely cutting it out of your routine may not be suitable. Full-body workouts are an excellent way to keep your physical activity up while also leaving more room to enjoy the festivities. Doing so means you no longer need to make several trips to the gym during the week to train a different body area in each session. Exercise classes like Pilates and HIIT are a great way to target all muscles in an hour or less, so they’re perfect for when you’re on a time crunch.

Combine Protein with Meals

If you’re eager for muscle growth, you’ll likely be

High Intensity Interval Training (HIIT), such as this jumping squat exercise, is a type of training with several minutes of high intensity movements to raise the heartbeat followed by short periods of lower intensity movements. PHOTO CREDIT ADOBE STOCK

on a high-protein diet — and while it’s encouraged to take advantage of the food and not be so strict with eating habits, it’s still possible to consume high amounts of the nutrient as you embrace the festive treats. There is an abundance of foods that are high in protein, such as camembert, which contains around 20 grams in a 100-gram serving, and turkey, which has 24 grams in just two slices. You can even add protein powder to recipes to make snacks from scratch, such as gingerbread men or a chocolate yule log.

Socialize While You Workout

If you’ve got plenty of loved ones to catch up with over the holidays, invite them to join you in your workout if you share similar fitness goals — not only does this kill two birds with one stone, but having a friend there can push you further and keep you motivated. Whether you head to the gym together, partake in a class or go for a run, bringing a friend along makes you much less likely to cancel or make excuses, which in turn, keeps you in the habit of exercising to prevent any setbacks after the holidays. Alternatively, walking is an excellent way to socialize and is suitable for those who prefer a moderate-intensity workout.

Opt for Home Workouts

The cold weather can make exercise

much more of a burden, and the time it takes to travel to and from the gym might be inconvenient if you’re on a tight schedule. If you don’t have equipment like dumbbells, you can stick to bodyweight exercises like planks, pushups, and side lunges — remember to adjust your rep range to around 25 to ensure that your muscles are adequately worn out. For cardio, exercises like star jumps, squat jumps, mountain climbers and burpees are great to get your heart racing.

Leave Room for Vegetables

If you’re holding back on indulging in treats due to your fitness goals, you can implement healthy foods into your daily routine to ensure you consume enough nutrients after having a treat. Steaming vegetables is a much healthier way to cook them than boiled, as doing so retains the nutrients that you need to stay healthy. Broccoli, carrots, and Brussels sprouts are just a few examples of vegetables packed with nutrients, such as Vitamin C, an antioxidant that protects your cells and keeps them healthy. A spokesperson from setforset.com has commented: “Over the holidays, it’s normal for people to exercise less and indulge more in food that they typically wouldn’t eat while on a diet. “However, many enthusiasts will still wish to remain healthy over the festive period, but it can be difficult to do so when you don’t know where to start. With these tips, you can ;ensure that you take staying as healthy as possible to prevent a loss of motivativation.” 

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J A N UA RY 7, 2024

Think Green I DOING

N E W S F E AT U R E

By Michele E. Buttelman Signal Staff Writer

t’s the new year and time to get serious about changing habits and self-improvement. One thing to consider in the new year is how your household can reduce sending any garbage to the landfill. It’s the year to “Reduce, Recycle, Reuse, Rethink.” Residents of the Santa Clarita Valley are fortunate to have convenient curb-side recycling with color-coded bins for easy disposal. The city also offers information and resources for those who want to up their recycling game at greensantaclarita.com. “Many of our common household items are recyclable in our curbside carts or bins. This includes things like empty spaghetti sauce jars, toilet paper rolls, junk mail, empty cartons and jugs,” said Laura Jardine, administrative analyst for city of Santa Clarita Environmental Services. “However, there are still some items that are too difficult to recycle that should go in the black garbage container like waxy-lined pet food bags, straws, pet waste, diapers and polystyrene, also known as Styrofoam.”

Reduce

We live in the land of plenty and for most of us, we like our “plenty.” The constant drumbeat of “turn down your thermostat,” “stop watering your lawn” and “take public transportation instead of driving” no longer resonates. However, perhaps we should think about it in a new way. Consider that by reducing our impact on the planet we share with our neighbors and future generations we are actively improving the world around us every day. A simple act like switching from single use plastic water bottles to a reusable water bottle is an easy change towards making a significant difference.

Reuse

We live in a disposable culture. In the last century the culture of “new is always better” has been warmly embraced. However, in the last few years we’ve seen that “new,” is not necessarily better. We’ve all heard stories of new refrigerators that die in a few years and everyone is now familiar with “shrinkflation,” that affects nearly every product we buy. An easy way to start “reusing” is to stop and think before just tossing out a broken appliance, or choosing to buy any “shiny new toy.” Do you really need it? If you do, make sure your old, still working appliances find new homes. You can buy, or sell, nearly everything on Facebook Buy, Sell, Trade pages, as well as other local online seller-to-buyer platforms. In addition, you can dispose of nearly anything if

YOUR PART

you give it away for free. So before “tossing” think about donating or listing your unwanted items. Thrift stores like Goodwill in Saugus and the Salvation Army in Canyon Country will gratefully accept donations and give receipts for tax deductions. Call thrift stores first to learn donation hours. A simple first step is to reuse your plastic food storage bags. You can wash and reuse most single use plastic bags. Reusable silicon food storage bags are now easily available on Amazon and elsewhere.

Plastics

While curbside recycling is easy and convenient, not everything can go into your Burrtec blue recycling cart. No bread bags, bubble wrap, plastic bags, clothing, e-waste, plastic toys or hoses can be placed in the recycle cart. Plastic in general is becoming harder to recycle because plastic is expensive to collect and sort. Plus, there are now thousands of different types of plastic and none of them can be melted down together. However, most plastic wrap, plastic grocery bags, food storage bags, bread bags, thin plastic “sleeves” or dry cleaning plastic, plastic bags of all kinds and flimsy plastic packaging can be recycled at Target, Walmart, Hobby Lobby, Albertsons, Food 4 Less Foods Co, Ralphs, Safeway, Sprouts and Vons.

Tires, Mattresses, E-Waste

The city of Santa Clarita has partnered with Los Angeles County Public Works to offer a waste tire recycling program. Tire recycling events are held typically held in Baldwin Park, Westchester and the Antelope Valley. For information on tire recycling, visit pw.lacounty.gov/epd/tirerecycling/collection. cfm. Free e-waste disposal and secure paper shredding events are scheduled frequently throughout the year in the SCV. “E-waste is sent to special E-waste recycling facilities that dismantle and separate the components

and materials. Those materials then go to companies that use those material types for re-manufacturing,” said Jardine. Residential customers in Santa Clarita can recycle mattresses and box springs at no cost by drop off at the Burrtec facility, 26000 Springbrook Rd., Monday through Friday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and the third Saturday of the month from 8 a.m. to noon. You can also use the free Bulky Item Pick Up program for mattress recycling. Visit www.burrtec. com/city/service-location/santa-clarita-cityresidential.

Household Hazardous Waste

There are convenient recycling options in Santa Clarita for HHW. Household batteries can be dropped off at the Newhall and Canyon Country community centers; Santa Clarita library branches in Newhall, Canyon Country and Valencia; and at City Hall. Leftover paint can be recycled for free at Sherwin Williams and Dunn Edwards paint stores. “There are also the HHW mobile collection events hosted in Santa Clarita throughout the year, where residents can take a multitude of items like household cleaners, automotive fluids, pesticides, fertilizers and more,” said Jardine.

Food Waste

The state of California requires that food waste now be recycled as well as other organic material like glass clippings and other yard waste. “The recent launch of the food waste recycling program will have a huge impact on waste that is recycled and not sent to the landfill. By separating our food scraps, expired foods, fruit and vegetable peels and food soiled paper, we are removing a large portion of the waste that typically goes in the garbage container and putting it to better use by processing it into mulch and compost,” said Jardine. For more information about recycling and shredding events visit www.greensantaclarita.com. 

J A N UA RY 7, 2024

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 7

Carpinteria Bluffs Nature Preserve and Tar Pits

T R AV E L

By Doña Uhrig Sunday Signal Editor

ocated a little more than an hour from Santa Clarita is the coastal town of Carpinteria with beautiful beaches and breathtaking mountain views. It covers 2.6 square miles with an ocean area of 4.7 square miles. That coastline is known for surfing, swimming and hiking. And, it is a favorite camping spot with four campgrounds. In 1912 the city embraced the slogan “World’s Safest Beach.” In fact, the city beach, which is located just north of the state beach, has been named the number one swimming beach in the state.

Origins

In 1769, the Spanish military officer Gaspar de Portola was exploring the Santa Barbara coast when he came upon the Chumash village of Mishopshnow. There he observed the Chumash building planked boats called Tomols. The Chumash had picked that location because of the naturally occurring surface tar which they used to waterproof the boats. Members of the expedition referred to the area as La Carpinteria or The Carpenter Shop. The town later became known simply as Carpinteria. Portola eventually became the first governor of the Californias. His expedition laid the foundations of San Diego and Monterey.

Avocado Festival

Santa Barbara County is the third largest avocado

Harbor seals resting on the shore in Carpinteria. PHOTO CREDIT ADOBE STOCK

producer in North America, according to the City of Carpinteria. With that, Carpinteria is a major contributor. To no surprise, the California Avocado Festival, which is held in downtown Carpinteria, was begun. Today, it has grown into a three-day event celebrating all things avocado. Last year’s festival, held in October, benefited more than 40 non-profit groups and the attendance was 100,000.

Unusual Attractions

According to Atlas Obscura, there are four cool, hidden and unusual things to do in Carpinteria.

Harbor Seal Preserve

The sanctuary is home to about 100 adult seals who give birth to their cubs along the shoreline. And, according to the preserve, is only one of four Harbor Seal rookeries remaining on the southern California coast. The preserve is located at 5669 Carpinteria Avenue. If you go to the bluffs above the preserve, you

can watch the seals playing and sunbathing. There is a sign indicating the best spot for viewing and also a bench for resting. It is a protected birthing habitat from December 1 through May 31st. Bring binoculars for the best view.

Tar Pits

Appropriately named because of the inky sludge that oozes out, these tar pits in Carpinteria are only one of five located in the world. Californians are probably most familiar with the La Brea Tar Pits in Los Angeles. However, there is another in California called the McKittrick Tar Pits, located just south of the Kern County city of McKittrick. The other two are Tierra de Brea in Trinidad and Tobago and Lake Guanoco in Venezuela. According to Atlas Obscura, the area is known as an “asphalt lake” and is formed by the seepage up to the surface along a geologic fault. The sludge eventually turns to asphalt as it is cooled by the air and ocean water. The tar pits are located at the southeast end of the Carpinteria State Beach. Parking is $10.

Wardholme Torrey Pine

The Torrey Pine was planted as a seedling in 1888 by Judge Thomas Ward at his home. It was designated a California Historical Point of Interest in 1968. According to the Historical Marker Database, the tree is 130 feet tall and more than 130 years. The average Torrey Pine is only 30 feet tall and lives to be around 100 years. Torrey Pines are rare and endangered and only live in some coastal areas of Southern California. The Wardholme Torrey Pine is Historical Landmark No. 1. 

Carpinteria Tar Pits. PHOTO CREDIT NIGELFRENCH

The Wardholme Torrey Pine. PHOTO CREDIT ATLAS OBSCURA

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J A N UA RY 7, 2024

FROM THE CITY MANAGER

City Hosts the Spectacular ‘The Big I Do’ Event By Ken Striplin Santa Clarita City Manager

his Valentine’s Day, the City of Santa Clarita is proud to announce the much-anticipated return of the “The Big I Do” wedding experience. This remarkable event extends a warm invitation to couples seeking a stress-free alternative to a traditional wedding, all while being mindful of financial considerations. Picture a day where numerous couples unite to partake in a collective ceremony with an elegant reception provided by the wedding experts on the City Hall Ceremonies team. And what adds an extra layer of excitement to this already joyous occasion? The unwavering generosity of our local businesses, ensuring that every moment of this day is thoughtfully crafted to forge lasting memories for the couples and their guests. Santa Clarita takes immense pride in being the only City in Los Angeles County that offers a comprehensive one-stop destination for both marriage licenses and ceremonies. The esteemed “The Big I

Do” event is an integral component of the globally recognized City Hall Ceremonies program and is efficiently overseen by the City of Santa Clarita’s City Clerk’s office. Through the widely embraced “Wedding Wednesdays” at City Hall, Santa Clarita has perfected the art of commemorating love. However, what sets “The Big I Do” apart is the exceptional generosity demonstrated by our local wedding vendors. Couples are offered an extravagant wedding experience that encompasses a captivating live violin performance, beautiful floral arrangements, an unforgettable reception featuring a skilled DJ, a photo booth, a professional photographer, a delicious brunch, a celebratory champagne toast, personalized wedding cakes and various other elements. Since its inception, this concept has stirred the community’s enthusiasm, providing local wedding vendors with a platform to showcase their services on a grand scale. The City takes immense pride in highlighting our local businesses through our City Hall Ceremonies program, by having them demonstrate their individual talents and expertise. This serves as a testament to the dynamic spirit of our community and the unifying influence of love.

We warmly invite all wedding vendors to join us, whether you specialize in jewelry, possess talent in floristry, have a renowned baking skill or stand out as a distinguished gown designer. Your valuable contribution has the potential to significantly impact the most crucial day in a couple’s life. Your participation serves not only as an investment in your business, but also as a heartfelt contribution to the celebration of love and unity. Seize the opportunity to elevate your brand to unprecedented heights and demonstrate your unwavering commitment to our community spirit by becoming an essential part of the City of Santa Clarita’s grand ceremony. Whether you are starting your story or renewing your vows, I extend an invitation to all couples to participate in this unique ceremony. For more details on how to participate in “The Big I Do,” please visit SantaClarita.gov/Weddings. Do not miss this invaluable opportunity to create cherished memories and celebrate your love surrounded by the warmth of our community. Ken Striplin is the City Manager for the City of Santa Clarita and can be reached at kstriplin@ santaclarita.gov. 

GET BACK TO CANCER SCREENING 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.

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J A N UA RY 7, 2024

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 9

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

‘Purple’ is Vibrant, Emotionally Resonant and Exhilarating By Richard Roeper Signal Contributing Writer

‘The Color Purple’

 (out of four)

A film directed by Blitz Bazawule and written by Marcus Gardley. Rated PG-13. In theaters.

ollywood and Broadway have a penchant for rebooting, revisiting, recycling and/or reimagining the same material through the decades in a way that often feels like as much a money grab as a fresh approach to older material — but the fourth adaptation of “The Color Purple” proves the exception. It’s a blazingly vibrant, emotionally resonant and exhilarating movie musical that does justice to Alice Walker’s iconic 1982 novel and the subsequent stage and movie versions while forging new creative paths and standing on its own as a bold and original work. What a powerful, gripping, heartbreaking, moving and ultimately uplifting tour de force by director Blitz Bazawule and one of the most impressive ensembles in any movie this year, led by nomination-worthy work from Fantasia Barrino, Danielle Brooks, Colman Domingo and Taraji P. Henson and extending all the way to the smallest of roles. Steven Spielberg was the first to adapt the Pulitzer Prize-winning and generationally great novel with a 1985 prestige-piece blockbuster that garnered 11 Academy Award nominations but was criticized by some for reinforcing stereotypes and softening some of the harder edges of the source material. Next came the acclaimed 2005 original Broadway musical, followed by the 2015 leaner and well-received revival. Eight years later, Bazawule (a multitalented artist) and screenwriter Marcus Gardley (“The Chi”) have delivered knockout work in a movie musical based on a musical that was based on a movie that was based on a book. It’s a long and winding road, as is the decades-spanning plot telling the story of a number of resilient women who survive, persevere and even thrive despite the unspeakable cruelty of men and the unforgiving

world to which they’ve been born — Southern sex and seduction. a world that tells them from the outThis is at heart a true musical, and set they have little worth, a verdict the vocal performances and the chothey refuse to accept. reography dazzle throughout Over the span of a 141-minute At times the film seems almost running time, the filmmakers baloverloaded with storylines, though ance the grounded and often horrific each subplot features electric perforsequences of drama with a bevy of mances, whether it’s Shug attemptmusical numbers that will take you ing to reconcile with her estranged straight to church and have your feet father, the Rev. Samuel Avery (Dabouncing in the aisles. It’s glorious. vid Alan Grier), or when the legendWith cinematographer Dan Laustary Louis Gossett Jr. turns up as Ol’ sen making particularly good use of Mister, who’s as much of a miserable the Southern outdoor locales and cuss as his son and is appalled when the production design team creating Celie finally speaks her mind at the Theatres authenticLaemmle period sets for the ground-• Santa Clarita Signal dinner tableadsource@exhibitorads.com in a scene that ends with ed scenes,3col and exquisitely p. 888.737.2812 203.438.1206 (4.75”) designed x 5.9” an applause-inducing moment.f. For sets for the Broadway-style musical all its depictions 2024 of misogyny, abuse, date: numbersAd thatinsertion often delve into pure Sunday-Thursday, January 7-11, heartache and miscarriages of jusmagical fantasy, “The Color PurAd creation/delivery date: Tuesday, January 2, 2024 at 3:38:29 CASCS_LEM0107-0111.qxp tice, “ThePM Color Purple” is also filled ple” opens on coastal Georgia in with transcendent scenes of hope PHOTO CREDIT IMDB 1909. Young sisters Celie (Phylicia and dreams, and it brings the curtain Pearl Mpasi) and Nettie (Halle Bailey and badass “Hell No” number might down with a soaring note of endurjust be the scene that wins her best from “The Little Mermaid”) are best ing love.  friends who find fleeting moments of supporting actress, while Henson’s Copyright 2022 Chicago Sun-Times happiness together when they’re away “Push the Buttons” is dripping with from their monstrous father, Alfonso (Deon Cole), who has been raping Celie for years, resulting in two baTM bies that are taken away and sold off almost immediately after being born. (The girls’ deceased mother is played by Aunjanue Ellis in flashbacks.) 22500 Lyons Ave. info Line 310.478.3836 When Celie is married off to the cruel and abusive Mister (Domingo), she finds herself trapped in another NIGHT SWIM C Sun: 10:20 1:30 4:30 7:30; Mon to Thu: 1:30 4:30 7:30 kind of hell and she feels alone in the Ray Waller, a former major league baseball player forced into early retirement due to a degenerative illness, moves into a new home with his family. Secretly hoping to return to pro ball, world after Nettie fends off Mister’s THE BOYS IN THE BOAT C Sun: 10:10 1:10 4:10 7:00; Mon to Thu: 1:10 4:10 7:00 attempt to assault her and runs off, This inspirational true story follows a group of underdogs at the height of the Great Depression as they are thrust into the spotlight and take on elite not to be heard from in many years. rivals from around the world. When we flash forward to 1917, FERRARI E Sun: 10:20 1:20 4:20 7:15; Mon to Thu: 1:20 4:20 7:15 Barrino (reprising her role from the It is the summer of 1957. Behind the spectacle of Formula 1, ex-racer Enzo Ferrari is in crisis, with bankrupcy threatening his factory and a strained marriage further impacted by the loss of their son a year earlier. Meanwhile, his drivers’ passion to win pushes them to the edge as they launch into a mid-2000s Broadway production treacherous 1,000-mile race across Italy. and national tour) has taken on the AQUAMAN AND THE LOST KINGDOM C Sun: 10:00 1:10 4:10 7:10; Mon to Thu: 1:10 4:10 role of Celie, who is still living under 7:10 the harsh and brutal hand of Mister Having failed to defeat Aquaman the first time, Black Manta will stop at nothing to take Aquaman down once and for all by wielding the power of the mythic Black Trident. To defeat him, Aquaman will turn to his imprisoned brother Orm, the former King of Atlantis, to forge an unlikely alliance. but finds solace in her imagination THE IRON CLAW E 1:00 4:00 7:00 and when she’s in the presence of The true story of the inseparable Von Erich brothers, who made history in the intensely competitive world of professional wrestling in the early 1980s. two strong and independent women: MIGRATION B Sun: 10:30 1:00 3:10 5:20 7:30; Mon to Thu: 1:00 3:10 5:20 7:30 Henson’s Shug Avery, a free-spiritMigration, a modern-day comedy following a family of ducks who convince their over-protective father to go on the vacation of a lifetime as they ed jazz singer who is Mister’s occaattempt to migrate from New England, through New York City, and ultimately down to the Bahamas. sional mistress but becomes Celie’s WONKA B Sun: 10:00 1:30 4:30 7:20; Mon to Thu: 1:30 4:30 7:20 protector and, briefly, her lover, and An origin story that explores the vivid, mythical beginnings of the imaginative young inventor before he becomes the renowned scrumdiddlyumptious Mozart of chocolate Brooks’ Sofia, who is married to Mister’s son, Harpo (Corey HawA STORM FORETOLD Sun: 11:00 AM kins), and is a room-dominating life With Donald Trump’s political godfather, Roger Stone, as its central character, “A Storm Foretold” documents how Trump’s presidential period had to find its logical endpoint with The Storm on the Capitol. force who takes s--- from no one and FOR 1/7/20241/11/2024 ONLY WWW.LAEMMLE.COM nobody, no way. Brooks’ brilliant

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Bringing the Finest in Film to the SCV!

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FOOD

J A N UA RY 7, 2024

Solve Winter Blues with These Cozy Recipes

ozying up with a bowl of warm deliciousness is a perfect way to ward off the chill of winter, and it's made even better when shared with those you love. Turning to favorite chilis and soups with comforting ingredients and smoky spices can transport your family from snow and sleet to warmth and paradise. Smoky German Potato, Sausage and Bacon Chili offers a reprieve from the cold with hearty flavor and family favorites seasoned with chili powder, cumin and cayenne pepper for classic taste with a twist. The thinly sliced potatoes and bacon of READ German Potato Salad in a sweet-piquant dressing provide a delicious new take on traditional chili. A bit on the lighter side but equally satisfying, Tuscan 3 Bean Peasant Soup calls for shallots, diced tomatoes, spinach, cannellini beans, cooked small pasta and more for a true winter warmup. Served with toasted bread cubes, it's sure to warm loved ones up from the inside out. Its key ingredient is Aunt Nellie's 3 Bean Salad, featuring premium green, wax and kidney beans in a light, sweet-tangy vinegar dressing. As a ready-toeat solution, it can be served chilled, at room temperature or as part of comforting winter recipes. Visit READSalads.com and AuntNellies.com to find more cozy cold-weather dishes.

Smoky German Potato, Sausage and Bacon Chili

Recipe courtesy of “Dad with a Pan” on behalf of READ Prep time 20 minutes Cook time 40 minutes Servings 8 4 strips thick bacon, cut into cubes 1 pound smoked sausage, sliced into 1-inch segments 1 small onion, diced 4 cloves garlic, minced 4 tablespoons chili powder

1 tablespoon ground coriander 1 tablespoon ground cumin 1 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper 1 teaspoon dried oregano 2 Fresno peppers, diced 1 can (14 1/2 ounces) diced tomatoes, drained 1 can READ German Potato Salad, drained 1 cup beef broth salt, to taste pepper, to taste In large saucepan over medium heat, cook bacon until crispy. Remove and set aside, leaving about 2 tablespoons drippings in saucepan. Add smoked sausage and cook until browned. Once sausage is cooked, add diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until onion is translucent. Drain excess fat then stir in chili powder, coriander, cumin, cayenne pepper, oregano and Fresno peppers until well mixed. Add drained diced tomatoes, German potato salad and cooked bacon to saucepan. Add beef broth and stir to combine. Season with salt and pepper, to taste. Bring mixture to simmer and let cook about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until flavors are melded. Substitution Jalapenos can be used for Fresno peppers.

Tuscan 3 Bean Peasant Soup

Recipe courtesy of Sarah Meuser on behalf of Aunt Nellie's Prep time 20 minutes

Cook time 27 minutes Servings 8 10 ounces day-old crusty bread, such as ciabatta, cut into 1-inch cubes 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, plus additional for drizzling (optional) 2 medium shallots or 1 small yellow onion, peeled and chopped 3 cloves garlic, peeled and chopped 1 can (15 1/2 ounces) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed 1 can (28 ounces) diced tomatoes 3 cans (14 1/2 ounces each) low-sodium chicken broth (about 6 cups) 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper 1/2 cup small pasta, such as ditalini, uncooked 2 cups frozen cut leaf spinach or chopped fresh spinach 2 jars (15 1/2 ounces each) Aunt Nellie's 3 Bean Salad, drained 1 tablespoon lemon zest (optional) Preheat oven to 375 F. Place bread cubes in single layer on large baking pan. Bake until bread cubes are lightly browned, 8-12 minutes. Set aside. Heat large saucepan or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add 2 tablespoons oil; swirl to coat. Add shallots; cook 5 minutes, or until soft, stirring occasionally. Add garlic; cook 1 minute, or until fragrant. Add cannellini beans, tomatoes, broth and black pepper; bring to boil. Add pasta; cook 8 minutes, or according to package directions. Stir in spinach and bean salad. Simmer 5 minutes, or until heated through. Ladle soup evenly into bowls. Top with toasted bread cubes and lemon zest, if desired. Drizzle with additional olive oil, if desired. ( Family Features) 

J A N UA RY 7, 2024

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 1 1

Four Tips to Mind Your Mental Health in 2024

here’s never a bad time to commit to managing your mental health, but the new year tends to make wellness a bigger priority. Wellness resolutions often focus on diet and exercise, but taking steps to improve your mental well-being is equally important. In fact, your mental health can play a critical role in your physical health. Stress, anxiety and other manifestations of mental and emotional distress can trigger physiological responses in your body that may erode your health over time. For example, if you’re continually under a high level of stress, chances are your blood pressure runs higher than it should, and that in turn poses a risk for heart disease and related conditions. As you turn the page toward 2024, renew your commitment to self-care and managing your mental health with these tips: 1. Set realistic goals. Having something to work toward and look forward to is a healthy way to occupy your mind. Decide what you’d like to achieve this year and identify milestones toward your ultimate goal. Celebrating when you achieve each milestone can keep you motivated

a portion of each day to de-stressing and clearing your mind. You might choose meditation, exercise, reading or listening to music, all of which let you relax your mind and focus your attention on something else.

and help measure your progress along the way. 2. Nurture personal relationships. Loneliness is a major contributor to mental health struggles, and having even a couple close relationships can help provide you with an essential sense of connection and belonging. Whether you talk in person, by video or text, make time to talk to family and friends. If you find your circle is smaller than you’d like, try taking a class or joining an organization where you can meet others who share your interests.

Seasonal Depression

H E A LT H

ccording to a study published in the journal Progress in Neurology and Psychiatry, in a given year about 5 percent of the population of the United States experiences seasonal depression, a condition also known as seasonal affective disorder, or

SAD. A separate study published in the journal BMC Psychiatry in 2021 found that 12.7% of students attending higher education or vocational schools who responded to a survey showed SAD. The organization Mental Health America notes that SAD is a subtype of depression or bipolar disorder that occurs and ends around the same time every year, typically beginning in fall and continuing into the winter. Curiously, the study published in Progress in Neurology and Psychiatry found that the main age of onset of seasonal depression is between 20 and 30. (MC) 

3. Alleviate stress. A little bit of pressure can push you to do your best, but living in a constant state of stress can be bad for your health. Take time to understand your stress triggers and actively work to avoid them. If that’s not fully possible, dedicate

4. Sleep more. Getting enough sleep means 7-9 hours each night, according to most experts, as it’s one of the best ways to protect your overall health and ensure you’re in the right frame of mind to approach the day. When you’re sleep deprived, you’re less capable of problem-solving, making decisions and managing your emotions and behavior. Studies have also shown poor sleep habits are linked to depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder and other mental health conditions. If winding down is an issue, try creating a bedtime routine that makes it easier to get to sleep. Find more tips to promote healthy living at eLivingtoday.com. (Family Features) 

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J A N UA RY 7, 2024

FINANCE

Understanding Today’s Trends in Home Purchasing

rends in real estate and home buying go far beyond mortgage rates and home prices. Better Homes and Gardens® Real Estate has identified several more trends that provide insight into today’s homebuyer and what they are looking for in a home.

Who are the buyers?

There is a big difference between a first-time buyer and someone who already owns a home. In fact, the 2023 Profile of Home Buyers & Sellers by the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) reports a 23-year age gap between a typical first-time buyer (35 years old) and a repeat buyer (58 years old). There are also more unmarried people buying homes today. While 59% of all buyers were married couples, single females purchased 19% of homes, followed by single men (10%) and unmarried couples (9%). It’s also noteworthy that 70% of recent home buyers did not have a child under 18

living in the home, a drastic increase from 42% back in 1985. “First-time buyers remain active and continue to account for about 30% of all home purchases,” said Ginger Wilcox, president of Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate. “While saving for a down payment remains a challenge, the overwhelming majority of first-time homebuyers are not putting down 20% and many are getting financial help from parents, families and friends. The repeat buyer has a significant advantage as they can utilize equity from their previous home to either pay cash or reduce their mortgage as they move up or down in home size.”

Staying close … again.

“The pandemic-fueled, work-fromanywhere trend that allowed so many to purchase a home in more affordable areas seems to be subsiding,” Wilcox said. “Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate affiliated agents are reporting more and more buyers who

left a market are starting to return due to work or because they miss family and friends.” This trend is shown in NAR data, according to Wilcox. “For years before the pandemic, it was normal for repeat buyers to move within 15 miles of their previous home,” she said. “It jumped to 50 miles a year ago as so many opted to move to more affordable locations and take advantage of the remote work boom. We are back to a 20-mile radius today.”

What do buyers want?

NAR reported that 39% of repeat buyers traded up, while 33% purchased a smaller home. But home size is not the only consideration, according to Wilcox. “It was interesting to see that 60% of all buyers said the quality of the neighborhood was the most important factor in determining where to live,” she said. “We are returning to a real estate market where life events trigger buying decisions. Being close to family and friends is the biggest driver of where people want to be, even more than affordability. “We are also seeing a trend in longevity in a home. While most live in their home for 10 years, today’s buyer believes they will stay in their recently purchased home for at least 15 years. Therefore, it is important for potential buyers to look as far into the future as possible when choosing their next home and thinking about job locations, marriage, children, and other factors.”

What about older Americans?

Better Homes and Gardens® Real Estate is tracking the home buying and selling patterns of baby boomers. This generation, those now 59-77, have redefined societal norms since they were born and are now doing the same in housing as they age. The U.S. Census reports the homeownership rate is more than 75% for baby boomers and AARP reports an overwhelming majority wants to age in place. “One of the big questions hanging over the housing market is how long baby boomers will stay in their existing homes,” Wilcox said. “As those in this demographic move on to the next phase in their lives, they will be looking for more manageable homes, nearby medical facilities, accessible community amenities and proximity to friends and loved ones. A good real estate professional will be able to assist and understand how to maximize the equity they have built.”

The process?

The fast-paced housing market continues. It’s important that buyers select an agent with whom they are comfortable, with a like-minded communication style and experience working in the price points and communities the buyer is interested in. It is also important to choose an agent who can help identify reputable loan officers with various financing options. If you’re thinking about making a move, connect with a Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate affiliated agent today. Visit www.bhgre.com/ find-agents. (BPT) 

J A N UA RY 7, 2024

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 1 3

CELEBRITYNEWS

Weatherly’s Tony or Cote de Pablo’s Ziva. Is it true that Wayne Brady has a reality show coming out soon? Will he still host “Let’s Make a Deal”? — A.I. Wayne Brady first wowed audiences with his improv skills on “Whose Line Is It Anyway?” — a skit comedy show on ABC. He won an Emmy for Outstanding Individual Performance in a Variety or Music Program for that show. In addition to acting, he’s also a three-time Emmy-nominated game show host for “Let’s Make a Deal,” the daytime job he’s held for the past 15 years. However, his love of acting hasn’t fizzled. In between delivering cash and “zonks” weekdays on CBS, he’s had recurring roles on the sitcom “How I Met Your Mother,” the daytime soap “The Bold and the Beautiful,” and Showtime’s “American Gigolo.” He’s still great friends with his exwife and business partner, Mandie Taketa, and her romantic partner of 12 years, Jason Fordham. The three co-parent their blended family of two children together. Brady sold a reality show concept to Hulu about their un-

A was sorry to hear that actor Q IDavid McCallum passed away.

What is “NCIS” going to do with his character when it returns for the new season? — G.N. David McCallum died of natural causes at the age of 90 this past September. He had a very long career in Hollywood, having been nominated for three Primetime Emmy Awards, including twice for his role in “The Man From U.N.C.L.E.” He went on to guest star in many classic shows like “Marcus Welby, M.D.,” “The Invisible Man” and “Murder, She Wrote.” Twenty years ago, he landed the biggest role of his career as medicalexaminer-turned-historian Dr. Donald “Ducky” Mallard on the CBS hit

Fantasia Barrino (“The Color Purple” Photo Credit Depositphotos

series “NCIS.” The show plans to honor him on Feb. 19 in the new season’s second episode. Steven D. Binder and David North, co-showrunners of “NCIS,” told TVLine.com that “the team will learn of Ducky’s passing and reflect on their memories of him as they grieve.” TVLine.com also speculated on the possibility of former key characters returning for Ducky’s farewell, such as Mark Harmon’s Gibbs, Michael

conventional life together, but a title and official premiere date have yet to be announced. Is Fantasia Barrino, the same one from “American Idol” years ago, in the new version of “The Color Purple”? I always wondered what happened to her. — K.I. Unlike Carrie Underwood, Kelly Clarkson and Jennifer Hudson, Fantasia Barrino hasn’t had as famed of a career as those other three “American Idol” contestants, but her 15 minutes has gradually increased. The wait is worth it, however, as she’s finally showcasing her incredible voice in the new version of “The Color Purple,” this time a musical, just like the Broadway play, which released on the big screen this past Christmas. Barrino played the role of Celie on Broadway as well and earned rave reviews for it. She’s garnering critical acclaim for the new film version as well. Perhaps, like Hudson did in 2007 for “Dreamgirls,” Barrino will win an Oscar this coming awards season.  ©2023 King Features Synd., Inc.

BOOKREVIEW

BookTrib’s Bites

Try These Interesting and Diverse Reads Winter by the Sea By Julie Klassen

Return to the Devonshire coast In this latest book in the On Devonshire Shores series with the Summers sisters, where loyalties are tested, secrets come to light, and new love emerges. When the Duke and Duchess of Kent rent neighboring Woolbrook Cottage for the winter, the Summers sisters host three of the royal couple’s male staff in their seaside house. But they soon realize they’ve invited mysterious secrets and the possibility of romance. Meanwhile, when a publisher turns down Emily Summers’ hope to be an author, his dashing competitor considers her novel if she will write a new Sidmouth guidebook for him. Emily enlists the help of the Duke of Kent’s handsome private secretary. But a surprise visitor shows up, leaving Emily torn between her past desires and her budding dreams.

The Killer’s Kid

By Adelene Ellenberg

After terminating a teenager-love child-pregnancy, Darlene Bundt, at age 36, finds herself unexpectedly “expecting.” Her problem? Her boss, the child’s father, is a Massachusetts mobster and known killer. Nevertheless, Darlene chooses Life, being a person of Faith. Ruthless, corrupt, yet charming, mobster Mickey Quinn decides he will take complete control of the kid, his only child. Darlene refuses to give up her child to him and flees with him into hiding. Will Darlene and

the killer’s kid ever escape to a life of freedom? Adelene Ellenberg’s newest suspense novel continues the story begun in Eminent Crimes: A Legal Thriller. As an attorney, she learned that “The Law” can be either a shield or a weapon, and the weak need protection from the strong. Purchase at AdeleneEllenberg.com.

A Reaction to Messianic Missionaries By Cheryl Simani

A fresh, exciting perspective on the missionary/counter-missionary controversy. Appalled by the nefari-

ous tactics of Christian missionaries disguised as Jews, Rabbanit Simani pens a personal letter to those misled by their wiles. She addresses the “Jews for Jesus” organization head-on and dives deep into the characters and sources for Jewish and Christian Messianic claims. The book addresses the development of the “Messianic Jewish” movement and the “Isaiah 53 Campaign” – an aggressive effort targeting Jews with misinformation to convert them to their disguised form of Christianity. It also outlines the conflicting historical paths of Judaism and Christianity. This is a dynamic perspective of the origins of Early Christianity, a must-read for anyone interested in who was or will be the Messiah. A perfect gift for the “truth-seekers” among family and friends, and that special rabbi. BookBites is presented by Book Trib.com. 

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J A N UA RY 7, 2024

PETS

Conditions That Can Affect Pets’ Oral Health

happy and healthy pet can be a wonderful addition to a home. The unconditional love that companion animals provide is often well worth the devotion of time and resources that goes into ensuring pets live happy and healthy lives. Oral health care is one of the common areas of pet health that some pet parents overlook, but it is just as important as other wellness issues. The American Veterinary Medical Association advises that dental health is a very important part of pets’ overall health. Dental problems can cause certain issues, or they can be a byproduct of other health problems. Understanding some of the conditions that can affect pets’ teeth and gums may compel their owners to take swift action if such issues arise.

Gum Diseases

Bacterial infections of the gums and other oral tissue can cause inflammation of the gums. If peri-

toy. Antlers, hooves and bones may fracture teeth. Pets also should not be allowed to chomp down on ice cubes. Teeth also may become fractured through rough play, such as a tugof-war session with a toy. Pet owners should carefully gauge the pressure at which they play such games.

Tumors

odontal disease is untreated, Merck Veterinary Manual says tooth loss can occur. Gum disease is caused by bacteria that leads to the formation of plaque at the gum line. Pet owners should be diligent in brushing their pets’ teeth

to reduce bacteria. Eating crunchy foods and treats alone will not clean teeth. Veterinarians also may recommend routine dental scaling treatments, particularly for breeds that are at elevated risk for periodontal disease.

Broken Teeth and Roots

Broken teeth and roots are most often caused when pets bite into something that is too hard. The Cornell Richard P. Riney Canine Health Center says pet owners should employ the “fingernail test” on pet toys. In this test, one should be able to make a dent in the item with a fingernail to mark it as safe as a chew

Oral tumors are abnormal growths that can form in pets’ mouths. Some tumors are benign, while others are malignant and can spread. All unusual growths should be checked out by a veterinarian. VCA Animal Hospitals says male dogs seem to be twice as likely to develop oral cancer than female dogs. Also, Akitas, Cocker Spaniels, Boxers, Dachsunds, Doberman Pinschers, Golden Retrievers and Poodles are among the breeds that seem to be predisposed to oral cancers.

Bad Breath

The most common cause of bad breath in pets is periodontal disease. Having pets’ teeth cleaned and staying current on oral hygiene can help. Additional causes of bad breath may include poor kidney or liver health, as the pet may be having issues filtering waste out of its body, says Apple Valley Animal Hospital. Routine vet visits can alert pet owners to potential oral health issues. Taking dental care seriously can help keep pets healthy. (MC) 

First Dental Health Appointment

D 20 0 2 21 0 2 22 0 2

ental health is important when caring for pets. Many pet health experts say that a pet’s first professional dental examination and cleaning should occur at around age two or three. Ideally, pet parents should brush their pets’ teeth daily to ensure that plaque and tartar does not accumulate and lead to significant periodontal issues. Older pets tend to require more frequent brushings, while younger pets and small dog breeds may not need daily brushing. There are plenty of pet-safe toothpastes available; do not use a human toothpaste, as such products contain ingredients that are not safe for pets. Pets should be acclimated to having their teeth brushed at an early age to make it easier to do so in ensuing years. In addition to brushing, pet owners can help their pets keep teeth clean by providing dental-friendly snacks and toys that can be chewed to scrub teeth. Also, feeding pets a nutritious diet that consists of some hard food to scour teeth during eating also is helpful. Some foods contain additives that help keep plaque from hardening into tartar, so speak with a dentist to see if this is appropriate for the pet’s needs. (MC) 

J A N UA RY 7, 2024

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 1 5

Home Exterior Trends for 2024

home’s exterior is often the first thing guests or potential buyers see, meaning its curb appeal can have a significant impact on making a good first impression. Whether refreshing or renovating your home, staying current with exterior trends can help make a statement, increase your home’s value and enhance the comfort of your living space. If you’re looking to refresh or improve your home’s function and style in the new year, consider these 2024 home exterior trends from the experts at Westlake Royal Building Products, a leader in innovation, design and production of exterior and interior building products including siding, trim, mouldings, roofing, stone, windows, outdoor living and more.

A Connection with Nature

Connecting people more closely with nature and natural elements, biophilic design can lead to increased well-being and productivity. Growing wellness and environmental concerns are driving demand for outdoor living space improvements and integration of nature in design, including elements like green roofs, living walls and large windows. Create dramatic outdoor spaces by contrasting light and dark colors. A matte black can be paired with materials like brick, stone, shingles and wood for an eye-catching twist. Bold, earthy tones such as navy blue, forest green, dark brown and red can also be combined with nature-inspired materials for organic texture and warmth. Other trending colors for 2024 include vivid teal and aqua blue, which can induce a sense of serenity.

of stone in a panelized format that is easy to install with screws or nails and requires no metal lath or scratch coat. The stone siding features a tongueand-groove system for perfect spacing, has a built-in rainscreen and can be installed almost anywhere without additional footings for support.

Transitional Takes on Tradition

aesthetics of wood while remaining low maintenance and durable for a lifetime. Featuring a patented interlocking seam design, it keeps moisture out and almost completely eliminates seams. Plus, its Kynar Aquatec coating provides superior protection against ultraviolet rays, reduces energy demands and resists dirt, seasonal staining and insects.

Functional Outdoor Living Spaces

Focused on creating seamless connections between interior and exterior spaces, this evolution in outdoor design includes integration of outdoor kitchens and living areas. Elements such as fire pits, pizza ovens, outdoor entertainment and games can be incorporated to personalize the space and provide a unique entertaining hub. Using cohesive materials and textures that can withstand the elements and flow from indoors to outdoors, such as stone veneer, can help elevate the space and further tie

High-Performance Siding

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it to the home’s interior.

Mixed Materials and Textures

Blending various textures, finishes and materials on a home’s facade can create a unique, visually dynamic look. Using a combination of materials like brick and vinyl siding or stone and wood can add depth and visual interest. An option like Versetta Stone delivers the authentic look and feel

A versatile design approach allows a home to transcend trends, ensuring its relevance and appeal over an extended period of time. In 2024, look for a rise in classic design trends featuring elements such as vertical siding, crisp white trim and other modernized traditional styles as well as a shift away from minimalism that incorporates more nostalgic, personal touches to home exteriors, ushering in more of a transitional style. Find more ideas to update your home’s exterior at WestlakeRoyal BuildingProducts.com. (Family Features) 

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J A N UA RY 7, 2024

GARDENING

Raised Garden Beds Have a Number of Advantages By Jane Gates Signal Staff Writer

ere’s a way to start 2024 that is not only doable, but will make you healthier and happier for years to come: do some gardening this year! Gardening is good for your physical well-being, mental and emotional health, fun to do (especially with friends and family), and can add beauty, food, herbs, medicines or crafting materials to your lifestyle. And — here’s the trick — to make gardening easier and more efficient, you can do it in raised beds. Raised garden beds are money-saving, easily controlled and comfortable to work in. Because they have so many advantages over planting on level ground — easier to plant, maintain and harvest — you might want to

consider building your own. Here are some tips to keep in mind if you want to start out this year’s garden to look great, be water-wise, easy care and highly productive with your own raised garden bed. For most plants, choose a location that gets plenty of sun. For growing edibles, this is a must. And if you are growing fruits and vegetables or herbs, site your garden where it will be easily accessible from the kitchen. You can fill a raised bed with organic composted soil that needs no amending and you can even create a growing area where there might not be one already conveniently located. If you have gophers on your property, line the bottom of your raised bed with ½-inch gauge, hardware cloth where it meets the soil so the sides of the screening extend to the outside of the garden bed walls.

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In other words, lay the bottom gopher-protection layer and build your walls on top of it, effectively sealing off entry points from below. This gauge hardware cloth still allows soil-friendly worms and other helpful micro-residents to travel up and through to populate the growing medium above. For edible gardens, avoid treated wood, railroad ties or any other chemically treated materials unless you line the garden bed with a safe, waterproof fabric. You do not want toxins leaching into the growing medium or soil. For a long-lasting liner, I use a sheet of rubber pond liner. It protects the inside of wooden walls from the soil moisture, works as a tough barricade to keep water in and pests out. It also keeps soil from filtering out between container wall gaps. And it won’t fall to pieces or tear should you scratch it with a gardening tool. It is expensive, but it can give you twenty years or more of protection — very economical in the long run! Sides can be constructed of any stable material. Wood is most commonly used, and cedar and redwood are the most durable. Metal will work; steel being the safest for use with edibles, but it only looks good in an industrial type design. Most metals will rust or discolor over time. Beware metals that leach toxins into beds with edible crops. Metal can also form a decorative patina over time and can create an attractive effect in an old-fashioned/antique or a contemporary style garden. Lining with plastic or rubber can keep

soil and plants safe in metal raised beds the same as it does with wooden structures — an especially good idea if you are not sure of the metal content in the material you are using. Stone can come designed as bricks, blocks, stacked slate, cast rounds or flagstone. Or it can be applied using the decorative facings. There are plastics and composites that will offer little maintenance since they will not rot, rust, crumble or split over time. Make your raised garden bed attractive. Echo the design of your house or garden in the materials you choose. A brick-walled raised garden bed with a decorative miniature white picket fence on top might look perfect in a cottage garden. Or a rustic, stacked stone raised garden may be perfect for a woodland styled landscape. Wooden raised beds will last longer if painted, stained or water-proofed. This becomes an opportunity to decorate the sides with color or even designs or pictures. Add to a theme garden by draping outdoor fabrics, dressing with bamboo or wicker, surrounding with rocks, logs, metal sheets, old lattice or anything else. It’s a fine opportunity to recycle left-over building or crafts materials. Have fun designing your raised garden bed. You can even construct a raised garden bed on a patio or balcony by stacking up artistically placed, readymade containers. Just make sure that however you build your raised garden bed you factor in drainage and some form of irrigation. Hopefully, these tips will help you design and build a raised garden bed that will make gardening easier and more fun. By using drip irrigation you can be water-wise in your landscape — even with areas of thirsty plants. If you control your system with a timer, the important watering schedule will be less likely to be forgotten. Or you can create a special growing space for special-needs plants! Make your beds ornamental and they can become the focal point of your garden. Use your imagination this coming year. Add raised beds to your landscape. You may end up thanking yourself for years to come. 

J A N UA RY 7, 2024

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 1 7

SENIORLIVING

Senior Health Concerns

ARE YOU READY?

he 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 experience mental health issues that are not associated with aging, and it helps to learn the early warning signs of dementia so you can seek treatment if necessary.

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

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% 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 reports that it’s estimated 25% 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.

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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) 

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PUZZLES CROSSWORD TIME

SOLUTIONS

J A N UA RY 7, 2024

Opinion

S U N D AY S I G N A L · 1 9

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

READERLETTERS

But Gas Is Only $4.50? In addition to inflation, the border, and wars and turmoil throughout the world, the United States is dealing with a crisis of despair. The most recent data show we have a record amount of homeless: www.npr. org/homelessness-affordable-housing-crisis-rent-assistance. The most recent data show we have a record amount of suicides: www.cdc.gov/ suicide/suicide-data-statistics.html. The most recent data show we have a record amount of drug overdose deaths, OVER 96,000 people: drugabusestatistics. org/drug-overdose-deaths. Many, if not all, on the left will blame anyone other than their own dopey and destructive policies. What the left does really well is never take responsibility for anything. See George Santos and Robert Menendez as a nice comparison. Half this country spent four years blaming Donald Trump for every problem that has ever existed. But Trump is not the president and he’s not in charge of policy decisions that cost the lives of hundreds of thousands of Americans. President Joe Biden owns the border. Leftist governors own the school lockdowns and the isolation of our kids that it caused. And while homelessness happens in every state, it sure seems to be spreading and getting much worse in the blue ones who continue to throw money at the problem while coddling the homeless by allowing them to camp anywhere. The left will point to the stock market and unemployment as things we should be happy about. Fine, but if that’s the case, why does the president “enjoy” a 36% job approval rate? Why do 54% of Democrats want someone else to run? Why is President Trump looking better and better to more people despite the political persecution that would make Vladimir Putin blush with envy? Be careful what you wish for, Democrats. History is full of political martyrs who made a comeback and when they do come back, they’re wanting, rightfully, revenge against those who wronged them. Biden is the president and he owns all the above problems and more. Hopefully we’ll get a man who can fix many of them a year from now. Brian Richards Stevenson Ranch Submit a Letter to the Editor

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

The Tyrrany of Autonomy By David Hegg

ometimes great things, essential movements and seemingly necessary events end up being the cause of unintended consequences. Laws meant to curb illegal behavior can have loopholes that create opportunities for new kinds of criminal endeavors even as the introduction of miracle drugs can, years later, be seen as having caused unintended health problems. Simply put, what appears to be progress can sometimes cause damage in the future. Stay with me here as I suggest that one of America’s greatest triumphs, our independence from England in 1776, laid the foundation for the crippling autonomy we now see all around us. We threw off the shackles of the king’s authority and declared that every person has inalienable rights, which was a grand and glorious thing to do. Centuries later, however, we are experiencing the unintended result of replacing mutually agreed-upon ethical and legal absolutes with personal autonomy. In escaping the tyranny of the Crown, we’ve ended up creating a society where, today, everyone seems to wear one. Autonomy comes from the Greek word autonomia, which is a compound made up of autos, meaning self, and nomos, meaning law. While it is often poor exegesis to consider that a word’s meaning equals the sum of its parts, in this case, it actually does. To be “autonomous” is to be under “one’s own law.” Today, we are watching as “personal law” quickly becomes the law of the land. Consider this. Truth is no longer absolute. Rather, we are being told it is flexible, malleable, and can be rearranged, redefined, or rejected depending on an individual’s desire. Natural law is law no longer unless it suits the individual’s narrative. We are watching as a “truth revolution” is severing us from the reality of absolutes. We’ve become our own personal lawmakers. And what is even more troubling is the rejection of any metric by which truth can be measured. On the one hand, biological, chromosomal truth is being denied in regard to gender even as it is agreed that two fives equal $10 when paying for groceries at the market. Why is one natural absolute flexible while the other is not? Imagine the uproar if the sales clerk handed you two $1 bills and said, “Today, we’re identifying ones as fives!” But natural law isn’t the only victim of the tyranny of autonomy. It is stunning to realize how quickly we have abandoned criminal law. Just as the tyranny of King George became an excuse to dress up in costumes and throw tea into Boston harbor, the supposed “tyranny” of our justice system has become the excuse to let criminals steal freely from stores and shops. It is no exaggeration to say we are no longer a society of laws, but

of lawlessness that champions personal autonomy dressed up in the political language of restorative justice. Ultimately, we have two systems: one that can be flexed to fit a political narrative, and another that can be used to thwart a political opponent. Lastly, perhaps the greatest law that has given way to autonomy is the love of neighbor. When I was growing up, people agreed that some things were right and best while others were wrong and hurtful. Being kind, thoughtful and helpful to those we encountered was not only right, it also was essential to our mutual well-being. To love one’s neighbor was one of the foundational laws for maintaining a society that worked for everyone. Sadly, today, “love” is being used to legitimize all kinds of things that are actually unloving. To love is to want the best for someone even if it means the love must be tough. In the biblical book of James, the author declares “whom the Lord loves, he disciplines.” Every parent knows this. If loving your child means allowing them the freedom to do whatever they want, you’ll be responsible for producing an adult who will be a drag on society rather than a conscientious positive contributor to the world in which he or she lives. No good parent believes their children are better off being autonomous rather than responsible to keep the rules. But, the truth is, sometimes doing what is right, and living with the absolutes of natural and criminal laws, is hard. Perhaps that’s the bottom line. When natural law cramps my style, autonomy becomes a much more attractive position, especially if I can market it as freedom. If truth becomes restrictive, then redefining it and demanding my world accept my perspective allows me the autonomy, indeed the authority, to escape the bonds of social constructs and truly find and be myself. Friend, that’s where we find ourselves today, under the thumb of the tyranny of autonomy. But, unlike the tyranny of King George, we don’t have to go to war to escape. All we need to do is winsomely but courageously stand up for absolute truth, whether it be natural law, criminal law, or the law of love. After all, rules, laws, and absolutes are what keep civil society civil. As G. K. Chesterton remarked, “Before you start tearing down fences, find out why they were put up in the first place.” He was right because tearing down the fences of truth and restraint has created the unintended consequences we see all around us. But it’s not too late. Good people doing good things can bring about good results for everyone. Local resident David Hegg is senior pastor of Grace Baptist Church. “Ethically Speaking” appears Sundays. 

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