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TABLE OF CONTENTS

NEWS FEATURES 4 5 6 7

Capturing the celestial skies from Santa Clarita First steps to planning your wedding When the wolves returned to Wall Street, online Local teen keeps eye on the goal

FROM THE MAYOR

8 An exciting lineup of virtual opps at The MAIN

Presents Podcasts

HEALTH 9 9 What protein, carbs and fat do for your body

FOOD

10 Health benefits of oranges beyond Vitamin C

RESTAURANTS 11 11 Restaurants now open for outdoor dining

ENTERTAINMENT 12 12 Black Panthers, Mr. Miyaki have stories to tell

SENIOR LIVING

13 Living with low vision

SignalSCV.com SCV Leadership and Business Solutions with Lisa and Paul Raggio Helpful advice on life and business

HOME 14 14 What to know before you begin installing built-ins

Selina Thomas SCV’s HR Guru

AUTOMOTIVE/PETS 15 1 5 Maintenance tasks drivers don’t want to overlook Addressing backyard messes that a pet can make

GARDENING 16 16 Streamline your outdoor living, dining and play area

TECHNOLOGY/PUZZLE 17

“She makes your business her business.”

1 7 What’s behind slow computers Crossword puzzle

KIDS & FAMILY

1 8 Donna’s Day: Turn old crayons into an art project Junior Whirl Get the Picture

OPINION 19 SPORTS

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F E B R UA RY 14, 2021

N E W S F E AT U R E

Capturing the celestial skies from Santa Clarita By Tammy Murga Signal Staff Writer

limmering star clusters, distant galaxies and sporadic fireballs that light up the skies. It’s all visible from the backyards of populated neighborhoods of the Santa Clarita Valley. That is, if you have the right equipment or know someone who does. For resident John Favalessa, he can marvel at these celestial events from the comfort of his Stevenson Ranch home via his newly found passion for astrophotography, which has allowed him to record colorful details of a myriad amount of distant objects. “I started off in astronomy, but with light pollution, when you visually look through telescopes in this area, you really can’t see much,” he said. “And then somebody showed me some photos they took with their camera and telescope a year ago, and I was blown away and it got me started.” The skies are categorized by light pollution and one of the many ways to measure how bright a night sky is by location is the Bortle scale, which is a nine-level numeric scale. At a level nine, or “inner-city sky,” the sky is brightly lit and many familiar constellation figures are not visible. At the opposite end on level one, or “excellent dark-sky,” the zodiacal light is strikingly visible. “If you are observing on a grass-covered field bordered by trees, your telescope, companions, and vehicle are almost totally invisible. This is an observer’s Nirvana,” according to skyandtelescope.org, a subsidiary of the American Astronomical Society.

How dark is it?

Stevenson Ranch is around a level six, said Favalessa. The Santa Clarita Valley as whole marks a level seven, according to lightpollutionmap.info. If you know where to search in the valley or its surrounding areas, you can luck out and reach a level of five or below, the astrophotographer said. “If you go out to Canyon Country or a little further into Agua Dulce it’s like a (level) five or four even,” said Favalessa. When you head out even a little bit further, you’re starting to get

ANDROMEDA GALAXY

dark skies when you go out to Red Rock (Canyon State Park) or out to Mojave or out to Death Valley and you can be almost totally dark skies.” “It just blows your mind when you can walk by the light of the stars,” he added. “There’s something that urban folks just don’t get. It’s a spiritual thing, too.”

The right gadgets

There are various areas you can focus on with astrophotography, but each requires different setups. For starters, you’ll want to have the following: a digital camera, lenses such as zoom or short and long telephoto, a telescope (for beginners a 65mm or 80mm refractor can do the job), a mount, camera tripod and a remote release. For example, to capture nebulae you will want a more wide field shot, whereas photographing planets will require a more powerful telescope, said Favalessa. Many of his photographs have been shot with a William Optics 102 mm triplet 4-inch refractor telescope and a ZWO ASI2600 astrophotography color camera. The finished product is composed of taking multiple, separate exposures per object, which can take anywhere between seconds to minutes, and is then integrated into one final image, according to Favalessa.

Favorite captures

Some of his favorite captures include the Messier 13, also known as M13 or the Great Globular Cluster in Hercules, which is one of the brightest star clusters visible from the Northern Hemisphere. It includes more than 100,000 stars and has a bright apparent magnitude of 5.8, it was spotted with a pair of binoculars in July, according to NASA. One of Favalessa’s M13 photos had a one-

HEART NEBULA

HORSEHEAD AND FLAME NEBULA

PHOTOS COURTESY JOHN FAVALESSA

Astrophotographer John Favalessa stands in his backyard with his homemade observatory in Stevenson Ranch. PHOTO BY DAN WATSON / THE SIGNAL

hour total exposure. With 10 hours of total exposure time, he has also photographed the Andromeda Galaxy or M31. It is “one of our nearest major galactic neighbors” at over 2 million light years away, and the “largest Hubble mosaic to date” with more than 100 million stars and thousands of star clusters, according to NASA. Another one in his collection is M42, or the Great Orion Nebula, which is believed to be the “cosmic fire of creation” by the Mayans of Mesoamerica. It is considered the closest, largest star-forming region to Earth as it is 1,500 light years away. It can be spotted with the naked eye and has a bright apparent magnitude of 4, according to NASA. Favalessa has also photographed

the moon, which is about 239 thousand miles away from Earth. Whenever possible, he has also shot events such as the recent Saturn-Jupiter conjunction, meteor showers, super moons, and all of the moon’s phases.

Ready to join?

Favalessa is part of a small niche of SCV-based astrophotographers that hold monthly star parties at locations such as Vasquez Rocks, where residents can bring their telescopes or just join and stargaze. The Local Group Astronomy Club of SCV has temporarily cancelled in-person meetings. However, they are holding virtual events. The next meeting is March 13. For more information, visit www.facebook.com/lgscv or lgscv. org. 

F E B R UA RY 14, 2021

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N E W S F E AT U R E

First steps to planning your By Michele Lutes Signal Staff Writer

our engagement should leave you feeling happy, loved and optimistic but eventually, when the reality of wedding planning sets in, it can leave you feeling overwhelmed, too. Planning a wedding can be stressful, so it’s important to focus on one task at a time, according to the experts “Try to enjoy the process,” said Graham Silver, owner of Silvertunes Entertainment. “As you get closer, when you do hire the professionals, they are gonna be there to guide you.“ Whether you have a year to plan or a few months to plan and whether you’re having a huge party, eloping or having a destination wedding, follow these first steps to start planning your wedding.

Set a Budget

While the cost of weddings significantly dropped from 2019 to 2020, if your wedding is planned for 2022 or later, consider these numbers. The average cost of a wedding in the United States in 2019 was $28,000, according to The Knot. That price dropped to $19,000 last year. Keep in mind, the average cost of a wedding in California is $39,000. When planning your budget consider the number of guests, the size of your venue to accommodate the guests and other vendors.

Pick a Date and Venue

You can get married anywhere, but the perfect venue should fit in your budget and speak to you as a couple. Some people choose their date first and others choose their venue first. “Unless you have a date that is extremely important to you, be flexible,” says Cassandra Copeland, owner of Cassandra Lee & Co. events. “Venue is a very important thing, because it will create the entire atmosphere.” Price points may change for during different days of the week, depending on the venue.

Pick your bridal party

Who will stand next to you on your wedding day? Hold your dress up, cheers champagne or beer and hold

The average cost of a wedding in California is

$39,000 your bouquet while you say, “I do.” “As soon as you set your venue and as soon as you set your date, then ask your bridal party,” Copeland said. “Ask them anywhere from a year out.” You can have as many as you’d like or just one. Your bridesmaids and groomsmen are there to support you during your special and stand beside you as you say I do.

Hire a Planner

Planning a wedding can be stressful and time consuming. Hiring a wedding planner can help make your day the way you two envisioned. The average couple spends more than 400 hours just in research, according to Copeland. “Biggest thing is the time and resources it takes to plan a wedding. If you don’t have the time or the resources, a good option is to get a planner.” Planners have connections and can give you referrals. Some questions to ask your planner include: • How many weddings they have planned? • Have they planned for their own company? • How long have they been in the business? • How did you get into the business? • What is your role and what is their role?

Entertainment

There are different levels of planning for a wedding, from full planning to a day-of coordinator and sometimes on-site planners. “An in-house coordinator will never do what an outside coordinator will do,” Copeland said. “They’re there to make sure the venue looks good.” In-house coordinators and outside companies can work together, Copeland said. “I work alongside a lot of in-house coordinators. They really know the venue, great people to work with, but I don’t think people should

The average couple spends more than

400 hours

conducting research for their wedding rely on them solely if they need a coordinator.” “If you have a DIY facility, it is an advantage,” Silver said. “The good ones will make sure the champagne is being poured between the toast and more.” Months go into planning the big day when you get to say, “I do” to the love of your life. “Almost no wedding planner believes in day-of coordinator,” she said. “You haven’t spent the last year getting to know them and their vendors.” Copeland offers many different planning services, walking bride and grooms through a realistic timeline to plan their wedding. Making sure the work is the best quality and making sure her couples are comfortable. “Once they book I am with them the whole time,” Copeland said about offering wedding management. She follows up monthly, has the bride and groom fill out forms to know exactly who their vendors are, builds the entire timeline and so much more.

Her company also offers design for your wedding. “Every bride and groom are different,” Copeland said. Some couples decide to elope or have a destination wedding. “When you’re looking for destination, absolutely have a planner,” Copeland said. “You want someone who is gonna have first hand knowledge.” Copeland has planned destination weddings with clients, using connections to make sure their day is just as they imagined.

One step at a time

You shouldn’t have to worry if your vendors are gonna show up to your wedding, Silver said. Your vendors should help walk you through their area of expertise. These are just the beginning steps to planning a wedding, follow these to get started and enjoy every minute of planning your big day. “Sit back and relax and enjoy this moment,” Silver said. “There is so much effort into this one day.”

Cassandra Lee & Co. Events can be reached at cassandraleeco.com. The phone number is (661) 8029572. Silvertunes Entertainment can be reached at silvertunes.com or (818) 533-8863. 

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F E B R UA RY 14, 2021

N E W S F E AT U R E

When the wolves returned to Wall Street, online By Caleb Lunetta Signal Staff Writer

or those who don’t follow what’s happening on Wall Street, the last few weeks have shown a new type of market disruption — i.e. what can happen when a large group of small investors use an internet forum, such as Reddit, to coalesce and stick it to a group of hedge funds those buyers hold responsible for their problems with the financial industry. The now-infamous GameStop stock short recently was a perfect example of this new dynamic. “When hedge funds or individuals ‘short’ stocks, what they’re basically doing is borrowing stocks that they don’t own and selling them to other people,” said Bradley Hartman, the owner of Hartman Financial Planning and hartmanfinancialplanning. com. “And so what happened was some hedge funds had shorted a bunch of stocks of companies they thought would probably go bankrupt over the long term, such as GameStop, AMC, Best Buy,” he added, “and there were bound to be a few of them.” The results were pretty instantaneous, especially for a market that is traditionally known for its ability to respond to what’s expected to happen six months from today. Almost overnight, Robinhood, one of many investment apps that have increased buyer access to the stock market, gained national notoriety for responding to the GameStop stock sales by freezing the ability to trade the stock in response to massive movement meant to drive up the price. The holds by Robinhood helped the hedge funds shore up their positions and potentially cost the app’s users millions — and created a whole new set of questions for the marketplace in the process.

GameStop

Essentially, once a Reddit community, named WallStreetBets, found out about these hedge fund shorts and realized that these hedge funds were betting against these companies, these internet investors with only a few hundred or a few thousand dollars to spend, decided to col-

Increased access and available time have led to many more joining the online investment craze through a number of different apps, which has not come without controversy over the past few weeks. PHOTO BY DAN WATSON / THE SIGNAL

lectively work together to both make money and get their revenge on Wall Street. “There was a lot of untapped anger directed at the hedge firms for what happened in 2008 with the economic crisis and it felt like no one got punished for it,” said Jared O’Brien, a member of the online Reddit forum called /r/WallStreetBets, who jumped into the stock market as a hobbyist at the beginning of the pandemic. “So, everyone wanted to jump on them, but when you jump in the ocean with sharks — it’s not going to end up well.” Working together, the Reddit.com community began snatching up thousands upon thousands of Gamestop stocks, among these other companies, spending their life savings and largely catalyzed toward purchasing the brick-and-mortar gaming company’s stock due to an individual on a Reddit forum. Gamestop’s stock for instance had been, in the last year, at a low of $2.57 a share. But by the peak of the bull rush had reached $483 per share over the course of a few weeks.

The danger in ‘diamond hands’

A term regularly floating around in

these spheres online is the term “diamond hands,” which became popular recently on Reddit as the price of (Gamestop) GME stock plummeted back down to double-digits. “‘Diamond hands’ means that even when it’s going down that there are at least some people that are not going to sell, they might even buy more,” said O’Brien. “And just again, some of these people are still angry at what the hedge firms have done.” A number of the Reddit day traders still posted this week about holding their stocks, with some of these people who spent $400-$500 on their original investments showing millions of dollars in gains and losses over the course of the last few weeks. “I think this is going to be an issue going forward,” said O’Brien, who said he himself has earned a few thousand dollars over the course of the last year before he sold off his position. “There were some serious players on there, some legendary stories, of guys losing hundreds of thousands, a couple guys losing millions of dollars. They post those losses almost as a badge of honor. “I think after another week or so, is when the real problems are start-

ing and there probably will be a higher chance of pump and dumps, I think,” he added, referring to the practice of buying a stock for a few weeks and then getting rid of it as soon as a quick profit is available or as soon as things don’t work out as planned. Hartman said he still has confidence in the stock market moving forward, despite possible future ploys like this. “I think people can have confidence in the stock market moving forward, because I think it means that playing in those particular waters shows that it’s dangerous,” said Hartman. “And you will see some of the things about somebody that took their $1000 stimulus check and turned it into $40,000 to pay off their student debt. But basically, Gamestop dropped 60% in value today, so whoever was part of that group of people that got Gamestop in the last day or two just lost 60% of their investment.”

Think in the long term

“The stock market is for the long term, and in that picture you have to know that volatility is a part of the game,” said Patti Handy, a wealth adviser with Vance Wealth based in Santa Clarita. “I think Warren Buffet has a quote that says, “Our favorite (holding) time is forever.” Handy said that those who jump out of the market after some volatility related to their more certain positions to jump in other games, can sometimes end up regretting that decision. “The stock market is not a place to invest if you’re looking at needing your cash short term, and by that I mean, you know, anything from three to five years,” said Handy. “If you need your money to buy a house, or to put your kids through college or what not, you really should not be in the stock market.” “The stock market is a long-term investment, it’s a buy and hold, and that’s the strategy we work with,” said Handy. “And again, looking at the client’s risk tolerance, time horizon, and whatever else is happening in their personal life and their needs, given their individual situation.” 

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N E W S F E AT U R E

Santa Clarita teen keeping an eye on the goal By Emily Alvarenga Signal Staff Writer

rom the time Santa Clarita native Marcus Ferkranus was 5 years old, he’s been working to accomplish his dream of becoming a professional soccer player. Since then, the now 17-year-old has been hard at work, putting in countless hours of time and dedication that have recently come to fruition: The L.A. Galaxy announced recently Ferkranus signed with the club’s first team. “I realized early that my dream was to play professional soccer, so every chance I had to take it to the next level, I took it, and I feel like I succeeded with that, and eventually it led me to play with the L.A. Galaxy,” Ferkranus said.

Through hard work and dedication, Marcus Ferkranus has earned a spot with the LA Galaxy at only 17 years old. PHOTO BY DAN WATSON / THE SIGNAL

Putting in the work

At 5, Ferkranus picked up his first soccer ball and was hooked. “We lived in Australia for a little while … and my father-in-law, which is (Marcus’) grandfather, was his first coach,” said Markus’ father, Tony Ferkranus. Ferkranus has been playing ever since, which really picked up when Marcus returned to Santa Clarita, according to Tony. After a couple of years playing with the SCV Magic, Ferkranus was recruited by Real So Cal to play club soccer, soon after being scouted to go to the Real So Cal Academy. “I’ve just always loved soccer and been wanting to pursue it, so once I got the chance to play (in an) academy, I took the opportunity,” he said. After a season with Real So Cal, Ferkranus was again scouted, this time by the LA Galaxy Academy, where he accumulated nearly 50 appearances for the Galaxy’s various teams. Ferkranus attended Saugus High School for a year before he entered the L.A. Galaxy Academy’s schooling program. “We’d be there from around 8 or 9 in the morning to 3 or 4 in the afternoon, starting with practice, showering and then having lunch and then eventually going to school for a few hours afterwards,” he said. Since joining the academy, soccer’s become an almost daily activity, with practice five days a week at the academy in Carson and games on the weekends. “We have put on many, many miles driving him around, but it’s a sacrifice that, as a parent, you’re happy to make because when he works this hard, you can see the payoff, and it’s just awesome, so the sacrifice has been definitely rewarding for us,” Tony said. Meanwhile, Ferkranus began working his way up through the academy’s teams, going from the U15 to U-16/17, then U-18/19 squad before he made his professional debut last year in the USL Championship with L.A. Galaxy II team. It was as he quickly progressed through those

teams that Ferkranus and his family began to realize he was headed in the right direction. “All my coaches just recognized the talent I had and I feel like I’ve always been a hard worker,” he said, adding that it was those coaches, along with his family, that he attributes to his success. “At the L.A. Galaxy Academy, they have a lot of support and coaches that really care about you and invest in you. My family as well has been super supportive … just sacrificing a lot of time to help me pursue my dream.”

Staying humble through it all

Ferkranus has always been a center defender, a position that he, being more than 6 feet tall, said is optimal for him. “A big part is my size and strength. Being as tall and strong as I am, I think the best position for me has always been centerback, and it’s always been the position I’ve done best at,” he said. “I think all the coaches I’ve been with have realized that I’m a natural defender, and I just loved the position ever since.” Galaxy Coach Matt Tutton agreed, adding that while going through a growth spurt could’ve been a challenge for some players, for Ferkranus, it was something he took with stride. “Marcus has done really well adjusting to his body, and I think that’s a testament just to his attitude,” Tutton said. In fact, since Tutton met Ferkranus a couple of years ago, it’s been his attitude that’s shown through. “Right away, you could just tell Marcus was just a solid, good individual, with a good head on his

shoulders,” Tutton added. “He was humble, polite, sincere, and those things, to me, right out of the gate are not always easy to find … so that was a refreshing first impression, and that’s really held true since I began to coach him.”

‘High hopes’

“Marcus is a talented prospect who we have seen progress as a player during his time with our Academy and with LA Galaxy II,” LA Galaxy General Manager Dennis te Kloese said in a prepared statement. “It is vital that we continue to invest in our youth players and prioritize their growth professionally. We are excited that Marcus will remain with our club as he continues to develop.” While Ferkranus isn’t necessarily new to the professional environment after getting to spend time with the LA Galaxy II team, he recognizes the effort he’ll need to put in. “I’m just working hard and trying to try to do my best,” he said. “There’s definitely nerves as well being with the big guys and having to up my game to match their level, but I feel like it’s something that I’m capable of, and I just work my hardest every practice and try to compete with them as best I can.” Tutton has high hopes for Ferkranus, and believes he will be able to withstand the competitive environment he’s now in. “It looks clear that Marcus is one of the top players at his age in the country,” Tutton added, “and I think if he continues the work ethic and just stays true to himself, a lot of doors are going to continue to open.” 

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F E B R UA RY 14, 2021

F R O M T H E M AY O R

An exciting lineup of virtual opportunities at The MAIN By Bill Miranda Santa Clarita Mayor

id you know that you have access to countless entertainment opportunities right here in Santa Clarita, thanks to The MAIN? The MAIN is a multi-use arts center located in Old Town Newhall, featuring a large assortment of art opportunities for spectators and artists alike. Although the physical building is currently closed, The MAIN has ramped up virtual art opportunities for individuals of all ages to enjoy safely from the comfort of their own home. Whether I am in the mood for live music, theatrical performances, standup comedy or in-depth interviews with art and entertainment professionals, I can view it all with The MAIN. An exciting event that is current-

ly underway with The MAIN is the third edition of Stage On Screen (SOS) Theatre Fest. What makes this particular edition unique is that it is the first International version of SOS Theatre Fest and welcomes original one-act plays, compelling dramas, interactive stories and more from around the world. Featured productions come to The MAIN from Chile, Scotland, China, Great Britain, Argentina, Nigeria, Ireland, Romania and the Czech Republic. It has been wonderful to see a new compelling story every week from our talented international friends. Plus, who wouldn’t love the opportunity to take a trip overseas to these countries? Even if it is only a virtual trip for the time being. I encourage you to view the lineup of remaining shows at Facebook.com/TheMAINNewhall and make plans to tune-in via Zoom. In addition to SOS Theatre Fest, The MAIN also hosts monthly events like “10 By 10” Variety Night, FOOD SESSIONS and the New Heights

Artist Development Series. “10 By 10,” hosted every fourth Thursday of the month, highlights ten performers taking the virtual stage for ten minutes each to showcase their artistic craft. The lineup can include musicians, storytellers, comedians, magicians, painters, filmmakers and many other talented entertainers. “10 By 10” always leaves me with a heart full of joy, while FOOD SESSIONS leaves me with a stomach full of hunger. New to The MAIN’s monthly lineup of virtual events, FOOD SESSIONS features local chefs giving food demonstrations, dishing out tips and tricks, along with community members sharing recipes of their own. Last, for our artistic community members seeking insight and advice from entertainment and art industry professionals, the New Heights Artist Development Series is just what you need. Each New Heights event features a panel of experts discussing topics such as auditioning, directing, songwriting, rehearsal tips, art

distribution and teaching art online. All of the three monthly events I have mentioned above are free and available to you online at Facebook.com/ TheMAINNewhall and on the City of Santa Clarita’s YouTube. I am thrilled to have so many in-person and virtual art opportunities available throughout Santa Clarita. Additionally, I am grateful for our talented local artists, entertainers and production companies that have made so many of these virtual opportunities possible with The MAIN. I urge each of you to explore the innovative and entertaining offerings by The MAIN at AtTheMAIN.org and stay tuned for new virtual events throughout the year!

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

F E B R UA RY 14, 2021

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 9

What protein, carbs and fat do for your body

nutritious diet is a vital component of a healthy lifestyle. When paired with physical activity, a nutritious diet can serve as the foundation for a long, healthy life. The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics (AND) defines nutrition has how food affects the health of the body. Food provides nutrients that are vital for survival. Food is made up of macronutrients like protein, carbohydrates and fat, each of which play different roles in promoting short- and long-term health.

Protein

Protein provides the body with amino acids that are essential for growth and development. The

Sugar is a naturally occurring component in many healthy foods, including fruit. But people looking to eat healthy should be wary of foods that contain added sugars, which can pose a significant threat to long-term health. According to the Harvard Medical School, added sugars are not currently listed on Nutrition Facts labels. That can make it hard to spot

H E A LT H

amino acids found in protein also help the body maintain itself and help body tissue recover after certain activities, including exercise. Protein also plays a vital role in how the immune system functions, helping the body to fight inflammation and infection. The AND notes that beef, pork, chicken, game and wild meats, fish, seafood, eggs, soybeans, and other legumes are great protein sources.

Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates do for the body what gasoline does for an automobile. Carbs provide the body with the energy it needs to function at peak capacity. The carbs found in foods like whole grains, rice, potatoes, bread, and more deliver sugars and starches that provide the carbs the body needs for

foods that contain substantial amounts of added sugars. HMS recommends looking at the ingredients listings on food labels and keeping an eye out for words ending in “ose.” The Mayo Clinic notes that fructose, dextrose, glucose, and maltose are the chemical names for various types of sugar. These ingredients can serve as a red flag that a product contains added sugars that can be detrimental to your overall health. (MC) 

energy. That energy is vital when moving around during the day, but it’s also essential when the body is at rest, as it ensures the heart continues to beat and facilitates digestion.

Fat

The dietary fat found in oils, nuts, milk, cheese, and other foods provides structure to cells and prevents damage to cell membranes. The AND also notes that oils and fats absorb fat-soluble vitamins like vitamin A, which is vital for healthy eyes and lungs. A nutritious diet is a building block of a healthy lifestyle, and no healthy diet is complete without protein, carbohydrates and fat. (MC) 

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F E B R UA RY 14, 2021

FOOD

Health benefits of oranges beyond Vitamin C

ealthful eating starts with the ingredients you use, so it’s important to use fresh, seasonal ingredients that pack a nutritional punch. One of the easiest ways to meet your daily nutrient needs is to eat a variety of whole foods like fruit (which about 80% of the U.S. population doesn’t get enough of, according to the USDA Dietary Guidelines for Americans), because they provide a unique mix of beneficial nutrients that can’t always be found in a supplement. Consider an option like delicious California Navel and Cara Cara oranges, which are in season and available nationwide, offering a wide variety of health benefits. Oranges are best known as an excellent source of vitamin C to support a healthy immune system, because one orange can offer 70-100% of the recommended daily value of vitamin C depending the varietal. However, oranges also offer other important nutrients your body needs to stay healthy, including: • Phytonutrients (beneficial compounds produced by plant foods) like flavonoids, which can help mitigate cell damage and support brain and heart health. • Citrus is the only type of fruit packed with hesperidin and naringin, two flavonoids that offer anti-inflammatory properties. • Potassium, which the body can’t produce on its own, supports cell function, healthy blood pressure levels, bone health and hydration. • California Navel and Cara Cara oranges are good sources of fiber, which supports gut health. • Oranges are good sources of folate, which is particularly important to consume during pregnancy because of its role in cell growth, according to the Mayo Clinic. Oranges are a versatile fruit, making them an easy addition to both sweet and savory dishes as well as beverages. Try incorporating oranges into your weekly meal plan with dishes like a lighter version of orange chicken or drinks like this Orange Moscow Mule Mocktail. To help maximize the flavor profile and nutritional benefits of California oranges, consider these tips: • Numerous parts of citrus can be consumed, including the flesh, juice, zest and peel, meaning a single piece of fruit can go a long way. • Next time you use citrus in a beverage or as part of a meal, bring it to room temperature before cooking to help ensure you get the most juice. • Because vitamin C is water soluble, it’s important to eat it fresh. When using as part of a recipe, use as little water as possible and avoid overcooking. • For storage, it’s often best to keep oranges refrigerated to help them last longer and ensure freshness. Visit californiacitrusgrowers.com to find more information.

Orange Moscow Mule Mocktail Recipe courtesy of Gina Homolka of “Skinnytaste” Servings: 1 1 California Cara Cara orange 1 cup ice 1 bottle (6.8 ounces) light ginger beer fresh mint leaves, for garnish Slice orange in quarters then cut 2-3 slices for garnish and set aside. Juice rest of orange and place in copper mug (or any glass). Fill glass to top with ice. Add ginger beer and garnish with orange slices and mint leaves. — Source: California Citrus Growers

F E B R UA RY 14, 2021

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 1 1

R E S TA U R A N T S

Restaurants now open for outdoor dining

ining out was once a rarity reserved for special occasions. More recently, consumption of food away from home has played an increasingly larger role in everyday life. According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, there has been a rise in dining out since the 1970s due, in part, to the variety of restaurants and two-income households. One shouldn’t discount the wide array of options and the convenience that dining out can provide. There are many advantages to dining out, and the decision to do so during the pandemic can help local restaurants stay afloat as they continue to confront the challenges of the COVID-19 outbreak.

It’s fun and exciting

Dining out can be a fun and exciting experience that takes people away from the routine of daily life. Dining out presents an opportunity to look forward to a specific day on the cal-

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endar. For many, it can be a respite from making meals at home. Dining out is a social endeavor, even if you aren’t interacting with that many other people in the restaurant.

Introduces new foods

Dining at a restaurant can be eye-opening for customers willing to try new things. Restaurants that specialize in ethnic cuisine can introduce diners to classic recipes from around the world — something they may not normally try if they do not dine out.

Prolongs the dinner hour

Dining out gives diners a chance to linger and converse without the distractions of home and daily schedules. A restaurant can be a good way to focus on communication with family and friends.

Escape workplace distractions

A workday lunch or business meeting held at a restaurant can help coworkers escape workplace pressures

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and distractions. Such meals also can be a great way for managers to foster strong relationships and build camaraderie within their teams.

Convenience

One of the best arguments for eating out is the convenience factor. When time is of the essence, making a reservation, eating out and allowing

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the restaurant to handle everything from service to cleanup cuts down on work at home. This frees up opportunities to do other tasks, including spending time with one another. Dining out has been gaining popularity for more than 40 years. Individuals and families can explore the many different advantages to enjoying a meal at a local eatery. (MC) 

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F E B R UA RY 14, 2021

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

Black Panthers and Mr. Miyagi have stories to tell By Richard Roeper Signal Contributing Writer

‘Judas And The Black Messiah’ 1/2 (out of four) 

Warner Bros. presents a film directed by Shaka King. Written by Shaka King and Will Berson. Rated R (for violence and pervasive language). In theaters and on HBO Max.

e caught a glimpse of Illinois Black Panther Party chairman Fred Hampton in Aaron Sorkin’s superb and spiritually truthful “The Trial of the Chicago 7,” with Kelvin Harrison’s Hampton advising fellow Black Panther Bobby Seale early in the trial. In the equally powerful and resonant “Judas and the Black Messiah,” we’re back in the Chicago of the late 1960s, but this time the focus is on Hampton’s rapid rise through the Black Panther ranks and the coordinated efforts by national and local law enforcement to stop him by any means necessary, resulting in the notorious predawn raid when Hampton and Mark Clark were gunned down by Chicago police. Despite law enforcement claims the Panthers fired first, it eventually was shown the police fired 90 shots, and the “bullet holes” supposedly left by Panthers gunfire actually were nail holes, the Chicago Sun-Times proved. The specter of Hampton’s tragic death hovers over the proceedings in director/co-writer Shaka King’s superbly rendered period piece. We know the story is going to end in a hail of bullets. While there’s no shortage of violence, including some shootouts prior to the night of the raid, “Judas and the Black Messiah” also has its moments of great inspiration, expertly played quieter scenes, and a touching romance between Daniel Kaluuya’s Fred Hampton and Dominique Fishback’s Deborah Johnson. At first, Deborah is captivated by Hampton’s mesmerizing oratory skills and his ability to organize. But she falls in love with the thoughtful, caring, loving and even shy man who courts her. Kaluuya is one of the best actors of his generation, and this is some of his finest work.

PHOTO COURTESY IMDB

But more screen time is devoted to the story of LaKeith Stanfield’s William O’Neal, a car thief who avoids a lengthy prison sentence by agreeing to become an informant for the FBI. With the coldly calculating FBI Agent Roy Mitchell (Jesse Plemons) and the vile and cunning J. Edgar Hoover himself (Martin Sheen, under unfortunate prosthetics) pushing and prodding O’Neal every step of the way, O’Neal infiltrates the Chicago branch of the Black Panthers, so impressing Hampton with his fiery dedication to the cause that Hampton makes him chief of security and takes him into the inner circle. Writer-director King does an admirable job of showing all sides of the story. Hampton and the Panthers want to feed and clothe and educate the children and build free medical clinics in the poorest and most oppressed of Chicago’s neighborhoods. But we also see Hampton working up a crowd with an impassioned speech about how good it would feel to kill “pigs.” And there’s a scene in which an associate of Hampton’s guns down two police officers making an arrest in a convenience store. It’s only a matter of time and place before the escalating tensions between the Panthers and the police will reach a point of no return. This is a well-paced and expertly edited saga. For every elaborately staged production scene with Hamp-

ton giving speeches in packed halls or the Panthers and police facing off, there are equally impactful set pieces, for example, when O’Neal visits Mitchell at home for cigars, barbecue and fine whiskey, and we see O’Neal getting quite comfortable with the spoils of being a rat. Or when O’Neal is in a bar and has an unsettling encounter with a flashy motormouth (Lil Rel Howery) he assumes is a pimp but actually is working for the FBI. Every performance, whether it’s the leads or a one-scene wonder such as Howery, is masterful. Jesse Plemons (“Breaking Bad,” “The Irishman”) has the chameleon qualities of a Philip Seymour Hoffman, and he’s at the top of his game as Roy Mitchell, who is horrified by J. Edgar Hoover’s racism but doesn’t flinch at requiring O’Neal to provide him with a floor plan of Hampton’s apartment in advance of the raid. Stanfield captures the screen with his multilayered performance as the tortured O’Neal. Kaluuya has been nominated for a best supporting actor Golden Globe and should merit Oscar consideration as well. What an impressive track record he’s already built, and what an incredible future he has. “Judas and the Black Messiah” was filmed in Cleveland (unfortunately), and there are a couple of exterior shots that do NOT look like Chicago. But, with so much of the action taking place in bars and living rooms and offices or on a small stretch of one street, it’s only a distraction once or twice.

‘More Than Miyagi: The Pat Morita Story’



Love Project Films presents a documentary directed by Kevin Derek. No MPAA rating. Running time: 89 minutes. On DVD and on demand.

ne of the things I love about the hit Netflix series “Cobra Kai” is how Mr. Miyagi’s presence looms large in the life of the grownup Daniel LaRusso, even though Miyagi has long since passed away. Daniel quotes and references Mr. Miyagi, he visits his grave, and we see the great man in flashback se-

quences culled from the “Karate Kid” movies. Noriyuki “Pat” Morita, the man who brought Mr. Miyagi to life in four “Karate Kid” films in the 1980s and 1990s and was nominated for best supporting actor for the first in the series, died in 2005, but his legacy lives on through those movies and in the Netflix series, which has introduced the wise and strong and funny and wonderful Miyagi to a whole new generation of fans. But there was much more to Morita than his most memorable role, as evidenced in the title of the documentary “More Than Miyagi,” a lovingly compiled tribute to a groundbreaking comedian and actor who was adored by his colleagues and loved by the fans, but who wrestled with alcoholism for decades, eventually succumbing to symptoms brought on by the disease. Morita was the life of any party, a ray of sunshine in any room he entered, but sadly suffered from a debilitating disease that sidelined his career and surely caused much personal strife. Director Kevin Derek does a solid, straightforward job of mixing archival clips of Morita during his nascent years as a stand-up comedian and guest star on sitcoms; footage of Morita as Arnold on “Happy Days” and the lead on the short-lived series “Mr. T and Tina,” and interviews with “Karate Kid” co-stars Ralph Macchio, William Zabka and Martin Kove and screenwriter Robert Mark Kamen, “Happy Days” colleagues Marion Ross, Henry Winkler, Anson Williams and Don Most, as well as Morita’s third wife, Evelyn, who shares home video footage and speaks with great love about Morita and with admirable candidness about his battles with addiction. The film reminds us of how rare it was to see an Asian actor on television or in the movies in the 1960s and 1970s, after decades of white actors doing “yellow face” caricatures. Morita’s television work and especially his portrayal of Miyagi helped to break boundaries and dispel old stereotypes. 

F E B R UA RY 14, 2021

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 1 3

SENIORLIVING

Living with low vision

isual impairment affects people of all ages and all walks of life. The American Foundation for the Blind defines visual impairment, often referred to as “low vision,” as any vision problem that is severe enough to affect an individual’s ability to carry out the tasks of everyday living. Millions of people have some degree of visual impairment that requires corrective lenses, and some still struggle even while wearing glasses or contact lenses. People with low vision can experience difficulty performing daily activities, such as cooking, shopping, reading, watching television and more. Some practical solutions can help people address changes in their vision.

Use more light After about age 60, many people require additional light to perform most indoor tasks as well as outdoor activities. After age 60, the pupil no longer opens as widely as it once did, which affects the amount of light that reaches the retina, where vision processing occurs. Brighten areas of the kitchen, garage, crafting table, and other areas where fine details are examined. Rely on darker contrasts Contrasting colors can make it easier to see edges and lines of demarcation. For example, use a dark tablecloth and white dishes to see table settings and food more clearly. Label items Bold-colored labels or those of different shapes can help set

ealth screenings are a vital component of preventative health care. Specific screenings for older adults can help them stay healthy. Healthline and WebMD recommend older adults schedule these routine tests. The frequency of the screenings may depend on individuals’ health histories, so each test should be discussed with a physician during adults’ annual checkups. • Blood pressure check • Blood test to check cholesterol and

HEAR EVERY PRECIOUS WHISPER

items apart when reading containers or boxes becomes challenging. Use filters and shields Certain devices, such as lens filters and shields, can reduce glare and improve vision. Individuals also can invest in shields for their computers or tablet screens to reduce glare. Choose “large print” formats At local booksellers, seek books that are available in large print. This makes it easier to enjoy reading. Switch bulbs at home The eye care resource All About Vision suggests swapping fluorescent and incandescent light bulbs with warm-toned LED bulbs. These bulbs emit less blue light and can be more comforting with reduced glare.

Valentine’s Day is a happy time filled with romantic dinners and a special ‘I Love You’ or two. But for those with difficulty hearing, that precious whisper may not be heard. At Advanced Audiology we want to help everyone with hearing loss enjoy the sounds they love most. With our team of experienced professionals, it’s more possible than ever before.

CALL 661.200.9470 TODAY to schedule your FREE hearing consultation and screening with our Exact Match Hearing Process™

Invest in adaptive devices Large-button phones with speed dial, large-print calendars, watches that speak the time, and digital home assistant devices also can help men and women overcome vision loss. Low vision impacts daily living, but there are ways to counter the effects of impaired vision. (MC) 

triglyceride levels • Colorectal cancer exam starting at age 50 • Weight screening to check for gains or losses • Prostate cancer screening for men age 70 and older • Breast exam and mammogram for women, starting at age 40 • Pap smear and HPV tests at the recommended intervals advised by a doctor • Hearing test • Osteoporosis test • Shingles and pneumococcal vaccines • Eye exam (MC) 

Nola Aronson’s Advanced Audiology is the largest diagnostic hearing center in Santa Clarita, and leader of advanced technology and invisible hearing solutions. We donate a portion of all our hearing aid proceeds to non-profits in our community. Nola Aronson, M.A., CCC-A

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F E B R UA RY 14, 2021

HOME

What to know before you begin installing built-ins

fter purchasing a new home, buyers often want to put their own fingerprint on the property. Homeowners anticipate the day when their homes are transformed into spaces that reflect their style and not the preferences of previous owners. When deciding how to renovate interior spaces, homeowners will make some relatively temporary changes, but they also may consider some permanent adjustments. Built-ins fall into the category of permanent adjustments, and while realty professionals note that builtins tend to provide a good return on investment, homeowners can learn more about built-ins before deciding if they want to install them in their homes.

What are built-ins?

Realtor.com defines built-ins as any feature that is built into the interior of a home. The term “built-ins” may immediately conjure up images of book-

shelves, but built-ins also include benches and entertainment centers.

Why install built-ins?

Built-ins can be both utilitarian and aesthetically appealing. Built-ins are functional because they provide storage space that homeowners may otherwise find hard to create. Built-ins are embedded in walls that may otherwise be useful only to hang artwork. This can provide much-needed storage space in homes with limited square footage. Professionally installed built-ins also can transform rooms, making them appear more organized. Customized built-ins also can give homes their own unique character, though it’s important to note that prospective buyers may or may not appreciate that uniqueness.

What are the disadvantages?

The permanence of built-ins may not appeal to some buyers. If buyers don’t like built-ins at all or are not fond of the look of customized built-

ins, that may be enough to convince them to walk away from a property. However, Realtor.com notes that functional built-ins, like built-in bench seats with storage capacity, appeal to modern buyers and their preference for storage space. Permanent built-ins also can be costly. The home remodeling resource Fixr.com notes that built-in

entertainment center installations can cost between $8,000 and $9,500. Built-in seating and bookshelves are not as costly, but such projects still cost more than simply buying premade furniture. It’s imperative that homeowners give ample thought to built-ins before deciding to install them in their homes. (MC) 

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F E B R UA RY 14, 2021

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 1 5

AUTOMOTIVE/PETS

Maintenance tasks drivers don’t want to overlook

avvy drivers recognize that maintenance is essential to keeping their vehicles running strong for years on end. Such maintenance ensures vehicles are safe to take out on the road, and basic upkeep also protects drivers’ financial investments in their cars and trucks. Drivers who are not mechanically inclined tend to put their vehicles in the hands of a trusted mechanic to perform routine maintenance like oil changes. But there’s a host of simpler vehicle maintenance tasks that drivers don’t want to overlook, some of which can be performed without visiting the auto body shop. Brake inspections Brake inspections are best left to the professionals, who can check the thickness of brake pads and look for other indicators of excessive wear. The automotive resource Cars.com recommends having brakes inspected during routine tire rotations, which many automotive professionals suggest should be done

every six months. Car wash Car washes might not be the first task drivers associate with vehicle maintenance, but they can prevent long-term damage to cars and trucks. Damage from bird droppings and road salt and ice melt products in the winter can damage a vehicle’s paint job and its undercarriage. Wash the car on your own at home or visit a professional car wash to perform this simple yet vital maintenance at regular intervals and whenever you notice significant buildup of dirt and grime on the car’s exterior. Air filter The air filter on a car or truck prevents debris, dirt and other contaminants from getting into the engine. The auto insurance experts at Allstate® advise drivers to inspect their vehicle air filters once a year. Air filters in need of replacement may appear dirty, and reduce fuel economy, unusual engine sounds and reduced horsepower are some other potential indicators that an air filter needs to be replaced.

While some maintenance tasks require the knowledge and skill of an expert, there are simpler tasks that can be performed without visiting a repair shop.

Windshield wipers Windshield wiper blades are easily overlooked, but various automotive experts recommend replacing wiper blades every six to 12 months. Old wiper blades won’t perform at peak capacity, dramatically reducing visibility during heavy rain and snowstorms. Anyone can replace their own wind-

shield wiper blades in a matter of minutes, and new blades won’t break the bank. Vehicle maintenance is not exclusive to tending to what’s under the hood. Keeping a car running smoothly for years involves routine tasks that many drivers can perform without professional assistance. (MC) 

Addressing backyard messes that a pet can make Not only is pet waste messy, if left out and about it can be an eyesore, a health risk and affect the quality of the soil in one’s yard. Regular removal of pet waste benefits the environment as well as pets and their owners. There are a variety of solutions that can help people rid their lawns of pet waste.

ets benefit households in myriad ways. The Animal Health Foundation notes that being around pets can decrease cortisol levels — a hormone activated by stress. Pets also may inspire their owners to engage in physical activity, such as walks around the neighborhood or play sessions in the backyard, and a physically active lifestyle can reduce a person’s risk for various diseases. To reap the rewards of a pet, owners must be willing to put in the effort to care for companion animals. This includes those tasks that can be unsavory, such as cleaning up pet waste.

Put it in the trash Placing waste in a trash receptacle is an option. Flush it Another solution is to flush waste down the toilet. But that is not always convenient and it requires owners to bring waste indoors. Do not flush cat waste that is covered in litter Use a sewer line attachment This disposal system is connected directly to a septic tank or sewer line. It will require washing out debris and waste that gets stuck in the plumbing. Use an enzymatic dog waste dissolver Soaking waste and using an enzymatic product can dissolve it more safely than using lime. Create a septic-style composter Some people create a mini septic sta-

tion in their yards in which the waste can break down and then dissolve into a predetermined corner of the property, away from where it can affect the landscape. Use a hose and water Solid waste is not the only concern in the yard. Concentrated urine may contain high levels of nitrogen as well as salts and other compounds, according to The Spruce: Pets. These components alter the pH of the soil and cause patch-

es of grass to die and turn yellow or brown. Females cause more damage because they squat and make a puddle of urine, while males tend to lift their legs and disperse the spray. Washing down areas where pets urinate can help dilute the urine and prevent damage. Various products and strategies can help pet owners neatly and safely remove pet waste from their yards. (MC)  SPECIALIZING IN PRECISION ELECTRONIC TUNE-UPS, FUEL INJECTION, IGNITION, SMOG CHECK, GENERAL AUTOMOTIVE REPAIR

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F E B R UA RY 14, 2021

GARDENING

Streamline your outdoor living/dining/playing area

e ready when spring arrives to get busy sprucing up your home’s exterior and its outdoor living space. Invest family time to envision which projects would transform it into a more organized, inviting retreat from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Do doors, door frames, porches/railings, gates, decks, patios, and outbuildings need to be cleaned, repaired, repainted or replaced? Do you need more furniture, flower boxes or play equipment like cornhole boards? Once a project list is made, visit your local Woodcraft store, go online at woodcraft.com, or use a Woodcraft catalog and call (800) 225-1153 to stock up on all the tools, materials and supplies you need. Woodcraft store employees can help with advice about products and projects, technical support is available at (800) 5354486, and woodcraft.com offers howto articles and videos. Woodcraft Magazine Classic Project Plans make it easy to build the inviting Swing Bed (pictured), as well as picnic tables, benches, hand grill carts, potting benches, Adirondack chairs, and much more. Restoring Outdoor Projects, a Woodcraft blog, offers tips to make Adirondack chairs and other wood pieces and structures look new again. Download the free PDF at woodcraft. com/blog_entries/restoring-outdoorprojects.

Cleanup & Repairs

Howard Clean-A-Finish Wood Soap easily breaks down grease, grime and wax on all wood surfaces. It effectively cleans without ammonia

or bleach by using a traditional blend of gentle yet powerful, natural soaps. Use it also on plastics, upholstery, carpet and vinyl. Blue Bear Paint and Urethane Stripper (SOY-Gel®) is Franmar Chemical’s effective, effortless and odorless coating remover made from soybeans and natural elements. Briwax ChaiRX is an easy solution for repairing loose chair joints. Inject ChaiRX into a small hole you drill in the joint, and the thin unique formulation will penetrate the wood cells to permanently swell the joints and bond them together. In 12 hours, the chair will be wiggle-free. For other gluing tasks, consider Titebond III Ultimate Waterproof Glue, a waterproof adhesive designed for interior and exterior use that has superior strength, is unaffected by finishes, and cleans up with water.

Build this comfy Swing Bed using a downloadable plan, tools and supplies from Woodcraft.

Building

For layout tasks, pick the Pinnacle Combination Square — blade, square head and center finder. The 12” blade features extra fine graduations in 8ths, 16ths and 32nds. Combination head has a scribe and spirit level. Saw wood to size with the Festool CARVEX PS 420 EBQ-PLUS Jigsaw that can cut up to 4-3/4” wood beams, as well as aluminum and steel. The Razorsaw Ryobi handsaw from Gyokucho, also a powerful cutting tool, has ripping and crosscutting teeth on opposite sides and an adjustable pivot point for angled cutting in tight spaces. Norton Hand Sanding Kits cover most sanding chores. Detail Sander fits well in hard-to-reach places. Fin-

ishing Block Sander makes general sanding quick and comfortable. The Montana Brand 4-in-1 Drill and Driver comes in a 10-piece set that includes all you will need to drive #6, #8, #10, and #12 screws. Add the Montana Brand 3-Piece HD Self-Centering Plug Cutter Set — unique in the woodworking industry — and you are ready to build in the outdoors. For fastening, consider the handy Freeman 23-Gauge 1” Pinner & 2” Brad Nailer Combo Kit.

acrylic paint is durable, easy to apply and rated for interior and exterior use. Colors may be mixed or used with General Finishes water-based Glazes and Wood Stains to create decorative finishes and effects. Other coverings for outdoor projects include:

Finishing

• System Three Marine Spar Varnish is a urethane-enhanced film finish formulated to protect against the harshest salt water and marine environments, as well as protect outdoor projects. To apply coverings by hand, consider Redtree Onyx White China Bristle Brushes (solvent-based finishes) or Redtree Matey Synthetic Bristle Brushes (water-based finishes). For spraying, the HOMERIGHT Super Finish Max features a builtin 450-watt sprayer, eliminating the need for a hose or motor to move around. Spray milk paint, chalk-style paint, latex paint, enamels, primers, urethanes, stains and varnishes. (MC) 

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F E B R UA RY 14, 2021

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 1 7

TECHNOLOGY

What’s behind slow computers

Too much multitasking and leaving multiple browsers open while working are two ways to slow the performance of your computer, especially if you are already low on memory space.

ew things can derail a productive workday more quickly than a slow computer. Many a professional has encountered the dreaded slowdown or spinning color wheel, only to sit in frustration as deadlines draw closer and tasks pile up. Computers can perform slowly due to a variety of factors, many of which can be addressed rather easily.

Too much multitasking

Successful professionals pride themselves on their ability to multitask, but computers can only handle so much. Running many programs simultaneously or having too many browser tabs open at one time is a recipe for a slow computer. Keeping various programs open at once slows down processing speed, leading to lags when switching from one program to another. This is easily overcome by closing programs at the end of each workday and opening them only when you need to. Leaving multiple browser windows open at one time also slows down a computer, especially if the windows are open to pages that auto-refresh. Close windows when you’re done reading an article or no longer need to access information on a particular website.

Software updates

Automatic software updates can be convenient, but they also take up space on computer hard drives. Ac-

cording to TechAdvisory.org, computers run smoothly when at least 15% of their total hard drive space is free. Turn off automatic updates and periodically check for updates on your own. If updates are available, install them during non-working hours so you don’t have to wait for the update to install during the workday.

Inadequate hard drive space

Though it’s best to keep at least 15% of your hard drive space free, TechAdvisory.org notes that professionals who routinely work on multiple files at one time can very quickly use up more than 85% of their hard drive space, especially if they need to store those files on their computers. In such instances, purchasing additional hard drive space can improve performance. Adding more RAM, which temporarily stores data that is currently being worked on, also can help users overcome storage-related slowdowns.

Viruses

Computer viruses are most often linked to corrupted files and frozen screens, but they also can cause computers to operate more slowly. Conduct a virus scan on the computer to see if that’s what’s behind the spinning color wheel or frozen screens. Many things can cause a computer to slow down. Thankfully, there are just as many solutions to fix slow computers as there are problems that can adversely affect their performance. (MC) 

CROSSWORD TIME

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F E B R UA RY 14, 2021

K I D S & FA M I LY

Donna’s Day: Creative Family Fun

Turn old crayons into an art project By Donna Erickson Signal Contributing Writer

f broken and worn-down crayons are showing up in drawers, backpacks, art-supply tubs and even the car, don’t throw them out! Instead, collect them all in a box and recycle them into fun Valentine art for the heart. You and your school-age kids can mold some clever designs when you melt down the old and create new, attractive and useful heart-shaped crayons — perfect for tucking into classroom valentine envelopes for something extra, or for eye-catching toppers on wrapped-up valentine gifts.

Here’s how 1. Remove the paper wrapper from crayons in your favorite Valentine’s Day colors such as shades of red and pink. Let the kids break the crayons into pieces and put them into piles

at all times.

4. An adult should carefully pour the melted wax into a plastic candy mold tray (available at craft and kitchen-supply stores in a variety of heart shapes. You might even find X’s and O’s). Or, use ice-cube trays that come in heart shapes.

according to the colors. 2. Put the pieces, according to color, in small, heat resistant glass jars, such as empty baby-food jars. 3. With adult help, fit a small rack in-

side a saucepan, and place the jars on the rack. Fill the saucepan with enough water to cover 1/2 inch of the jars. Heat the water until the crayons melt. Keep an eye on them

The wax will harden quickly and pop out of the mold easily. You could put the tray in the freezer, or outdoors if you live in a cold climate, for a few minutes to speed up the process. For added effect, pour a contrasting color into the mold after the first layer of wax has hardened. This will produce a two-tone crayon. Now, try out a new crayon heart on a piece of paper and discover that it really works. Make multiples and share them with family and friends for Valentine’s Day. Donna Erickson’s award-winning series “Donna’s Day” is airing on public television nationwide. To find more of her creative family recipes and activities, visit www.donnasday.com and link to the Donna’s Day Facebook fan page. Her latest book is “Donna Erickson’s Fabulous Funstuff for Families.”  © 2020 Donna Erickson Distributed by King Features Synd.

F E B R UA RY 14, 2021

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

500-mph Rail? The time for sub- or even supersonic rail is long overdue. Its development has long been retarded by the inordinate costs and sophistical limitations of conventional construction methodologies. If state legislatures open up rail construction bids to other than just their big construction donors, it is possible to build hyper-fast rail for less than one-tenth the cost of conventional rail and pay for it with conventional utility usage fees. Saudi Arabia recently unveiled plans to build a 100-mile-long city completely along a rail route. Because of this elongated city concept, which mimics how societies were first built along rivers, this future city will not need long transits or 12-lane highways and will run completely on electricity. Good for them and embarrassing for America. This subsonic rail would be built by forming concrete within conveyor belts and passing it over roller-topped columns. As the columns would be emplaced as they are cut off from this continuous concrete extrusion, costs for the entire process would come down to the cost of materials and the cost of cutting and placing columns in the ground. The construction process could proceed at up to a mile a day at as little as a million a mile per rail. Compare this to the $4-million-plus per-mile cost of a fourlane road or about $50 million to $400 million per-mile cost of conventional rail. Because the rail is an elevated, continuous, hollow, concrete beam, it bypasses any ground-level reconstruction and allows for the conveyance of water, gas, sewage, and even large-volume industrial liquids like gasoline or diesel. And because these fluid conveyance capabilities are effectively free, as an inherent element of beam construction, their fees will pay for the construction regardless of rail usage. In effect, the cost of the rail could be minimized to just the cost of the electricity and rail car costs. Because this rail is a continuous extrusion, it can accommodate rail as fast as 500 mph using an air cushion “air hockey” concept. To date, we all marvel at 300 mph rail. However, there is no laws-of-physics reason why rail should be limited to 300 mph. The only limitation to speed is the laser-precision straightness of the rail, the sonic boom, and energy consumption trade-offs. Arguably, a smart nation would investigate the possibility of supersonic rail. Regardless, this hollow beam construction is ideally suited for and would easily accommodate an internal, evacuated tube rail. In the end, the only thing holding back supersonic rail is a state’s legislature making it possible for fledgling competing companies to have a seat at the rail bidding table, because million or even multi-million-dollar per-mile rail that can pay for itself is only obstructed by the $80-million-per-mile construction interests. Joe Archer Agua Dulce Submit a Letter to the Editor

Include name, address & phone; Anonymous letters aren’t printed; email: letters@signalscv.com. Mail to: Letters, The Signal, 26330 Diamond Place, Ste. 100, Santa Clarita, CA 91350.

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

The Politicians We Demand By David Hegg

verywhere I turn there is another article or podcast or broadcast critiquing someone in a governmental leadership position. But what I don’t often hear is a simple outline of what our politicians should be. So, today I offer four simple thoughts on what we should demand of everyone given the privilege to serve in an elected office. 1. Serve the People: Sounds simple enough, right? But increasingly we are seeing politicians use their positions and power to pursue personal agendas while considering the people who elected them as a mere funding source. Remember when elected officials were actually “public servants”? I do, and I also recognize the challenge of serving a diverse constituency. No one is saying public service is easy. But the real problem is that to be a good servant you have to understand and prize the opportunity to serve others even if you’re not noticed or applauded for the work you do. You also must accept that, if you really do give your life to serve the people, you’ll often be treated like a servant, and have to actually serve. Yep, you’ll have to get your hands dirty, keep your mouth shut, and actually do what you were elected to do, all the while rejoicing that you’ve been privileged to serve. That’s a servant’s heart, and that’s what we should demand in our elected officials. 2. Tell the Truth: I don’t know where to start with this issue. We the people have been so inundated with untruths, halftruths, generalizations and obfuscation that we no longer trust anything being told to us by those who are supposed to be serving our best interests. Here’s the deal. Tell us the truth! We can take it. Don’t spin it, and please stop seeing everything you do through the lens of “plausible deniability.” Tell your speech writers you want unvarnished statements that are actually true and verifiable. Better yet, fire your speech writers and your publicity agents, and have the courage to talk straight to us. Tell the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth. Who

knows? It just might work to make honest, sincere and consistent communication with the folks who gave you the job the hallmark of your tenure. 3. Act with Wisdom: To do this you must be a good student, always learning, intent on getting the truth, and never satisfied to make decisions without all the necessary information. But knowledge isn’t wisdom! Technically, wisdom is the proper application of knowledge to the stuff of real life. It is using knowledge properly to navigate through the deep waters of both the knowns and unknowns of in this crazy world. We’ve had plenty of “know-it-alls” who papered their walls with fancy diplomas, certificates and awards, who couldn’t creatively and wisely shore up a wobbly restaurant table. It’s time we demand that our elected officials employ a high level of active intellectual ability combined with a truckload of common sense and practical wisdom. Frankly, absurdity in this country has gone far enough. 4. Ignore your Legacy: Dear elected official, we didn’t put you in office so you could use our money and our lives as building blocks in the wall of your career and whatever legacy you fancy yourself leaving. Here’s a thought: Do your job, do it well, do it now. Make every one of your “todays” a priority and valiantly resist the temptation to think about your legacy. Trying to stack the future in your favor will only hinder you from making the tough decisions, telling the truth and doing the right thing now. But I can assure you that, if you demonstrate integrity, walk in humility and dedicate yourself to serve with sincerity, we’ll remember you. But even better, our neighborhood, our village, our city, our state, our nation, and maybe even our world will be better because you decided to serve others rather than yourself. Now get to work and make us proud! Local resident David Hegg is senior pastor of Grace Baptist Church. “Ethically Speaking” appears Sundays. 

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