SundaySignal_021625 by Signal

Cybercrime is on the Rise.

How to Protect Yourself

Even the most skilled cybersecurity expert can fall prey to today’s incredibly sophisticated phishing attempts.

Phishing can take place in a variety of ways, but recognizing these “lures” is a powerful way to defang cybercriminals:

Phishing

Traditional phishing comes in the form of a fraudulent email that encourages recipients to click on a link and provide personal data. Often the subject lines are designed to entice the receiver with an interesting headline, timely topic or urgent request.

Smishing

An attacker sends a text prompting the recipient to click a link or call a number for more information. If the link is clicked, the user downloads malicious software to their phone.

Vishing

An attacker uses the telephone — or voice — to gain access to sensitive information for financial gain. The criminal usually poses as someone they are not, such as another employee, technical support person or someone representing a government agency.

Quishing

An attacker creates a fake QR code and uses it to direct victims to a malicious website that prompts them to enter their personal or financial information.

Ultimately, the easiest way for a cybercriminal to steal your information is to trick you into sharing it. Their fraudulent communications will often look official and appear to have come from a trusted source. However, there are warning signs to watch out for. Pause and ask yourself the following questions before responding: Do you know the person who sent you the message? The source of an email or text can easily be forged, making it seem that a request is coming from someone you know. If something seems off or

if the sender is asking for money or personal information, contact them through a different channel than the original message to confirm the message came from them.

Does the message create a sense of urgency?

Criminals will often try to rush you into making an unwise decision. An example of such a message may read, “confirm your login details in the next 24 hours using the link below or your account will be suspended.” Always take the time necessary to think through your response and confirm legitimacy.

Does the offer seem too good to be true?

Treat any messages announcing you’ve won money, a prize or the opportunity to purchase an item at a significant discount as suspicious.

Does the message ask you to click on a link or open an attachment?

Be particularly wary of emails from people or organizations you don’t know urging you to click on a link or open an attachment. Doing so can lead to malware being installed on your device.

Does the telephone call ask for personal or financial account information?

If you receive a call that just doesn’t feel right, trust your instincts. Hang up and call the customer service line from their official company website. Does the message ask you to scan a QR code? As QR codes become more common in daily transactions, utilize these tips when scanning a code:

• First, check to determine that the QR code has not been tampered with, such as a sticker placed on top of the original code.

• Check the URL to make sure

the code is sending you to the intended site and that the site looks authentic. Look for typos or misplaced letters.

• Exercise caution when entering information on a site accessed via a QR code and avoid making payments; manually enter a secure URL to complete a payment.

• Do not download an app from a QR code. Instead, search for the app via your device’s app store.

• If you receive a QR code from someone you know, reach out to them through a known number or address to verify that they sent you the code.

To learn more about cybersecurity best practices, visit PNC Bank’s Security & Privacy Center at pnc. com.

Don’t assume your tech savviness will protect you from today’s cybercrimes. In the face of increasingly sophisticated scams, an ounce of prevention can go a long way in helping you to protect yourself.

(SPT) 

PHOTOS ©ADOBE STOCK

By Michele E. Buttelman Signal Staff Writer

It’s time to gaze up at the night sky to see the special celestial shenanigans the universe has in store for the Santa Clarita Valley in February and March. The best part of these astronomical events is that they can all be viewed with the naked eye. No special, expensive equipment or skill is required.

Feb. 16 Venus at Greatest Brightness

Venus reached greatest elongation, its farthest distance from the Sun, in January. Elongation is when a planet is farthest from the sun with Earth as the reference point. Elongation is a good time to view planets as they can be easier to spot in the night sky. However, even better than elongation is brightness. On Sunday, Feb. 16, Venus reaches its greatest brightness.

Feb. 28 Alignment of Seven Planets

In the evenings around Friday, Feb. 28, look up to see seven planets gracing the night sky in a “planetary parade.”

If you missed seeing the alignment of six plants in the sky in January, you are in luck, the Feb. 28 event is rarer and will offer the entire pantheon of the Earth’s family of planets.

Five planets, Saturn, Mercury, Venus, Jupiter and Mars, will be visible to the naked eye, while Uranus and Neptune will require a pair of binoculars or a telescope to view.

“Planetary alignment is an astronomical term used to describe the event when several planets gather closely on one side of the sun at the same time,” according to the Star Walk website, starwalk. space/en/news.

While four- and five-planet alignments can occur multiple times a year or so, a full seven-planet alignment is much rarer. This usually occurs only once every few years.

The next seven planet alignment is expected in 2028.

PLANETS ON PARADE

Tips for Viewing

NASA.gov suggests to start looking for the “planet parade” as soon as the sun sets below the horizon. Look up within 90 minutes after sunset to catch the full alignment.

Find an area well away from the city or street lights. Lie flat on your back with your feet facing northeast and look up, taking in as much of the sky as possible.

The moon will not a be problem during the full planetary alignment. On Feb. 28 the moon in the SCV will not appear until the next morning after 6 a.m.

March 7 Mercury Elongation

Mercury will be at greatest elongation on Friday, March 7. Mercury will be to one side of the sun and at its greatest distance from the sun on Earth’s sky dome. This is the best time to see Mercury, a plant that is usually difficult to spot because of its close location to the sun.

March 13 Total Lunar Eclipse

A total lunar eclipse occurs when the moon passes completely through the Earth’s dark shadow, or umbra. The moon will gradually get darker and then take on a rusty or blood red color. The eclipse will be visible throughout all of North America, Central America and South America.

In Santa Clarita the eclipse will begin at 8:57 p.m. on Thursday, March 13 and reach maximum, total eclipse at 11:58 p.m. The eclipse ends in the early morning hours of Friday, March 14 at 3 a.m. The eclipse event will last a total of six hours and three minutes.

March 14 Worm Moon.

This full moon was known by early Native American tribes as the Worm Moon because this was the time of year when the ground would begin to soften and the earthworms would reappear. This moon has also been known as the Crow Moon, the Crust Moon, the Sap Moon and the Lenten Moon. Moonrise in Santa Clarita will be on Friday, March 14 at 7:41 p.m.

How to Find the Planets

Now you know when to search for planets, but how do you locate the orbs? There are several helpful apps that will show you where to look. It is important to be able to search for a planet’s location relative to where you are located on Earth.

That’s where the apps come into play. An app will see your physical location on Earth and be able to show you where the planet you are searching for can be found in your slice of the night sky.

SkySafari 7, is a top-rated app that offers a large database of celestial objects and the ability to point your phone at the sky to see what you’re looking at in real-time.

Other popular apps are: Night Sky 11 for iPhones, NASA app, Star Walk 2 for beginners, SkyView and Star Chart.

Sky Tonight by Star Walk is a new stargazing guide that allows you to point your phone at the sky and it will show you the real-time positions of celestial objects on an interactive map. Activate the augmented reality mode and see the sky map overlaid on the image from your camera.

The Local Group Astronomy Club

If you are interested in more information about what’s happening in the night sky over the Santa Clarita Valley, attend a meeting of The Local Group Astronomy Club held on the second Thursday of each month at 7 p.m. in the meeting room at Barnes & Noble Booksellers, 23630 Valencia Blvd., Santa Clarita, CA 91355.

The next meeting will be held at 7 p.m. on Thursday, March 13. The meetings are free and open to the public.

Presentations include talks on a variety of topics by knowledgeable club members and special guest speakers from Caltech and JPL.

For more information visit /lgscv.org.

Griffith Observatory

The Griffith Observatory is another great resource for night sky information. To read the monthly Sky Report visit bit.ly/4aSlY15. 

PHOTOS ©ADOBE STOCK

Navigating the Exciting Journey of Buying Your First Boat

Navigating the exciting journey of buying a boat requires careful planning. With various costs beyond purchase price, such as maintenance, insurance, storage and unexpected expenses, understanding how to budget for a boat is essential for a smooth sailing experience.

Here to guide you through the process are the experts at Boatmart, a marketplace for buying and selling boats of every shape and size.

Boat Types

First, determine what type of boat will align with your hobbies, lifestyle and budget. From small dinghies to luxury yachts, the spectrum is broad. Factors to consider include:

Intended Use If you’re planning to use your boat for lake fishing, a simple fishing boat will suffice. But if you’re into water sports or ocean cruising, you might need a specialized, more expensive model. Consider your needs and go from there.

New vs. Used While a new boat may require a higher upfront cost, it’s likely to demand less maintenance during the initial years. On the other hand, a used boat may be more affordable, but could potentially necessitate additional upkeep in the long run.

Size Larger boats tend to come with a higher price tag for both the initial purchase and ongoing expenses, such as maintenance, insurance and storage fees. Take these factors into consideration when evaluating the overall costs of ownership.

Upkeep

Just like cars, boats need regular maintenance to preserve your investment. Regular upkeep consists of engine tune-ups, antifouling, cleaning and winterization. Here are some ways to minimize maintenance costs:

DIY Upkeep Simple upkeep and maintenance can be completed by you, if you feel confident enough to tackle those things. However, for more involved

tasks, it’s advisable to utilize experts.

Regular Care Regular checkups to spot problems early can help you avoid larger repairs later.

Insurance

Insurance is a big piece of owning a boat. Your choice of coverage will affect the total overall cost of your insurance. Here are some things to consider:

Coverage Type In terms of insurance, third-party liability could be a good option, as it’s generally less expensive than full coverage. This insurance prevents you from having to pay for any potential accidents or harm caused by your boat.

Boat Value Your boat’s value affects the price of insurance. In general, more expensive boats require more expensive insurance.

Boat Use Use frequency, where you go boating, and the boat’s main location can change the premium. For instance, if you use your boat for low-key lake trips, you might pay less than someone who goes offshore fishing. Understanding these factors helps you choose the correct coverage.

Storage and Transportation

Where you choose to store your boat and how you decide to transport it between bodies of water factor into overall boat ownership costs. Consider the following:

Storage Keeping your boat at a marina is generally more expensive than keeping it at home, if you live on the water and have a dock. The cost of marina storage depends on boat size and type, location, and services. Choosing between outdoor or indoor storage can also impact price. Indoor storage is often pricier, due to offering more protection and security.

Transportation Towing your boat? Remember to include the cost of a trailer into your budget, as well as the added cost of vehicle fuel when towing.

Unexpected Costs

Like with any major purchase, setting some money aside for emergencies is key. Unanticipated expenses can include sudden repairs, part replacements and damages from bad weather. A useful guideline is to set aside 10-20% of your boat’s worth each year for these expenses.

To search for boats and to learn more, visit boatmart.com.

Purchasing a boat is a thrilling journey. With good planning, you can avoid financial worries and enjoy lifelong memories on the water. (SPT) 

When shopping for a boat you should consider things like what size are you interested in and what is the main use of your boat. PHOTOS ©ADOBE STOCK

Another thing to consider when buying a boat is repair and upkeep costs.

Adventure Awaits on the Almond Blossom Cruise

By Michele E. Buttelman Signal Staff Writer

Four hours north of Santa Clarita, around the city of Modesto, the annual display of almond orchards in full bloom is a month-long display of breathtaking pink and white blossoms.

The annual Modesto Almond Blossom Cruise begins now. By mid-March the trees will have shed their blossoms and will be hard at work making the nuts so important to California’s agricultural economy.

All commercially produced almonds in the United States are grown in California, which is home to more than 7,000 almond growers and processors. The popular tree nut, considered a specialty crop in the agricultural industry, is California’s leading agricultural export.

Almond Blossom Cruise

Info visitmodesto.com/almond-blossom-cruise

There is so much to see and do on this adventure you’ll want to make a weekend of it.

Fun fact 75% of the world’s almonds are grown in the Central Valley.

Just minutes from downtown Modesto, you can cruise along country roads through miles of orchards that envelop you in a floral cloud.

The easiest way to see it all is to purchase Modesto’s Almond Blossom Cruise, a downloadable self-guided driving tour into the heart of almond country.

A 60-mile, 120-minute Wayfarer Almond Blossom Cruise audio tour of the blooms can be purchased for $16.99.

It includes turn-by-turn directions through miles of almond blossoms with stories about why Modesto is the heart of almond country and includes information on local history.

While almond blossoms are the big draw, the cruise is also a chance to discover and taste the local bounty at farm stands and gourmet shops.

The app offers fun stops along the way that include orchard walks, farm stands, almond butter milkshakes and an olive oil tasting.

To purchase the Wayfarer Almond Blossom Cruise audio tour, visit www.wayfarerjourney.com/ almondblossomcruise

DIY Blossom Tour

If you’d rather forgo the cost of the audio tour and explore on your own there is a downloadable map at bit.ly/4jNdM6l.

Modesto’s nut orchards have hundreds of thousands of acres planted in almonds, so it’s a great place to see a high concentration of blooms.

Highway 132 between I5/590 and Highway 99. A busy road, but with wide pull-outs.

Don’t Miss These Locations

Here are a few highlights you’ll want to stop to visit along the way.

Rodin Farms, The Fruit Stand

5000 Claribel Road, Modesto 95357

Rodin Farms sits on the corner of a fourth-generation family farm, beckoning customers to stop and enjoy the agricultural abundance Stanislaus County has to offer.

The almond trees reach down to the parking lot which offers guests the perfect photo opportunity.

Roberts Ferry Gourmet

20493 Yosemite Blvd., Waterford 95386

Info robertsferrygourmet.com

This is another spot to capture great photos and pick up an array of snacks, including dark chocolate almond caramel popcorn, pumpkin pie almonds and fiery sriracha almonds.

When you visit the Country Store Waterford location, you’re invited to take a stroll through the blooming orchard that surrounds it. Follow the posted signs for a photo opportunity while you listen to the bees busily buzzing and pollenating the important almond crop.

Another Roberts Ferry Gourmet store is located in downtown Oakdale at 150 North Third Ave., Oakdale 95361.

Sciabica Family California Olive Oil & Gourmet Foods

2150 Yosemite Blvd., Modesto 95354 Info sunshineinabottle.com

The Sciabica family’s journey into the world of olive oil began in the sunny town of Marsala in Sicily. It was here, in the late 1800’s, that Nicola learned the ancient art of olive oil production.

After immigrating to the United States, Nick stumbled upon Modesto where he and his wife bought a ranch in 1925.

In 1936, armed with the olive oil wisdom from Sicily, the Sciabica Family ventured into cold-pressing California olives and introduced the Marsala® Brand Olive Oil, named after Nick’s hometown. It’s now the undisputed oldest continuously produced

Modesto Photo Stops

California’s Oldest & Largest Walnut Tree 2543 Dakota Ave. 95358

Knights Ferry Bridge 17968 Covered Bridge Rd. 95361

Roberts Ferry Bridge 101 Roberts Ferry Rd. 95386

olive oil in the U.S. To this day, the Sciabica Family calls that same land in Modesto home, nurturing olives, and crafting their “sunshine in a bottle.”

Visit the Modesto tasting room and gift shop and seek out a bottle of Hillside 7. Each bottle is delicately filled by hand and adorned with the “Hillside Story” and production month.

Fiscalini Farmstead

7206 Kiernan Ave., Modesto, CA 95358

Info fiscalinifarmstead.com

Cheese lovers can visit Fiscalini Farmstead, famous for its Old-World Aged Cheddar and stock up on the signature Goudas made by Oakdale Cheese & Specialties.

Fiscalini Farmstead started as a dairy farm over 100 years ago. Today the fourth generation owns and operates the business and continues a way of life that respects, preserves and honors the animals, the land and resources.

Fiscalini Farmstead was established in 1914 by the current owners’ great-grandfather who immigrated from Switzerland and settled in Modesto.

The dairy, which began with 12 cows, expanded to include a cheesemaking facility on the premises. The family is dedicated to making handcrafted cheeses.

“By using the milk from our cows only, we achieve superior taste and quality which has won us numerous awards over the years,” according to the farmstead website. 

©PHOTO CALIFORNIA WELCOME CENTER.

Your Guide to an Exciting Spring in Santa Clarita

By Ken Striplin

Santa Clarita City Manager

Spring is here, and there’s no better time to explore everything Santa Clarita has to offer. Whether you’re looking to try a new hobby, sign your child up for sports or discover recreational opportunities near you, the City’s Seasons magazine is your ultimate guide.

After opening in December of last year, the City’s newest Community Center is ready to welcome residents with a variety of exciting classes and programs. This spring, the Valencia Community Center will kick off its very own Primetime Preschool, designed with our youngest residents in mind. These fun-filled classes include arts, crafts, music, learning and so much more. Plus, registration for the 2025-26 school year will also begin this season — don’t miss out!

Looking ahead, the Valencia Community Center will become the newest Camp Clarita location this summer. Hosting our Ranger Camp (ages 5-8) and our Explorer Camp (ages 9-12), the program offers engaging activities like crafts, sports, games, songs

and even math and science. Weekly field trips and visits to our City pools ensure a summer full of fun and great memories for everyone. This program fills up quickly, so be ready on registration day!

Spring is always synonymous with our beloved Santa Clarita Cowboy Festival at William S. Hart Park. As you dive deeper into the pages of Seasons, you will learn more about the family-favorite event that brings Western charm to Santa Clarita with live performances, interactive exhibits and delicious food, like the famous Cowboy Cobbler. Thousands of visitors are expected to join the festivities, which include a unique opportunity to tie the knot or renew your vows during “The Big I Do” at the historic Ramona Chapel located in the Santa Clarita Historical Center! You won’t want to miss this community favorite event.

The Santa Clarita Public Library Branches are brimming with programs and activities for you to participate in. In March, join the popular One Story One City program featuring, The Inheritance of Orquídea Divina,” by Zoraida Córdova. This month-long program encourages community discussions and celebrates the joy of reading. From story-time and makerspace, to our annual Día de los Niños event in April, the Library offers free pro-

gramming for all ages. Don’t forget to check out the event calendar in this edition of Seasons!

Sports enthusiasts of all ages have plenty to look forward to. Starting in March, girls ages 12-15 can join our newest Girls Flag Football program, a four-week class focused on drills, agility and scrimmages at the Santa Clarita Sports Complex Multipurpose Field. For adults and seniors, basketball and volleyball leagues are returning — so gather your team and hit the courts.

With over 300 classes featured in this edition of Seasons, there’s something for everyone in Santa Clarita this spring. From preschool fun and community hikes, to pickleball and Library programs, this season is packed with opportunities to connect, learn and play. Grab your copy of Seasons at any of our City facilities, or be on the lookout in your mailbox. Registration begins on March 4 at 10:00 a.m., so be sure to browse all of our classes by visiting SantaClarita.gov/Seasons.

Ken Striplin is the City Manager for the City of Santa Clarita and can be reached at kstriplin@ santaclarita.gov. 

Cozy, Comforting Recipes to Take On the Cold

If blustery conditions are giving you the blues, come inside from the cold for a winter warmup in the comfort of your own kitchen. Cold-weather favorites that are baked, roasted or slow cooked are usually equal parts easy, delicious and filling, making them perfect solutions for chilly, snowy days.

Add a bit of comfort to your weeknight menu with this Loaded Chicken Bake that’s ready in about half an hour. A short list of ingredients and allowing your oven to do most of the work for you mean it’s ideal for saving time (and money at the grocery store) while still satisfying winter appetites. Serving as the hearty base is READ German Potato Salad, made with thinly sliced potatoes and bacon in a traditional sweet-piquant dressing. While it’s delicious when served chilled, heated or at room temperature on its own, it can also be the star of the show in family meals.

For another true cent saver, try Oven-Roasted Sweet Potatoes and Beets. This savory side dish highlights the flavors of the season in a recipe that’s as easy to assemble as it is to enjoy with loved ones. Picked and packed at peak ripeness, antioxidant-rich Aunt Nellie’s beets are pickled with a delicate balance of sweetness and vinegar for a homemade flavor that’s perfect in this roasted side that can accompany winter meals of all sorts. Versatile jarred whole pickled beets are always in season, meaning you can enjoy them chilled, warmed or worked into recipes.

Find more favorite wintertime recipes by visiting READSalads.com and AuntNellies.com. (Family Features)

Loaded Chicken Bake

Recipe courtesy of Hungry In LA

Prep time 20 minutes

Cook time 15 minutes

Servings 8

Nonstick cooking spray

2 cans (15 ounces each) READ German Potato Salad

4 cups shredded rotisserie chicken or other cooked chicken

1/2 cup heavy cream

1/4 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon finely ground black pepper

3/4 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese

1/4 cups crumbled, cooked bacon

French fried onions (optional), plus additional for serving (optional), divided Preheat oven to 375 F.

Lightly coat 9-by-13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.

Spread German potato salad evenly in dish. Top evenly with chicken.

In small bowl, stir heavy cream, salt and pepper. Pour mixture over chicken.

Sprinkle with cheese, bacon and onions, if desired.

Bake 15 minutes, or until casserole is bubbly. Let stand 10 minutes. Top with additional

onions, if desired.

Oven-Roasted Sweet Potatoes and Beets

Servings 4

1 jar (16 ounces) Aunt Nellie’s Whole Pickled Beets

2 large sweet potatoes (about 1 pound) peeled and cubed (1/2-3/4-inch cubes)

2-3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil

1 teaspoon kosher salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1 red onion, sliced about 1/4-inch thick

2 fresh rosemary sprigs, plus additional for garnish

Preheat oven to 400 F. Drain beets. Discard liquid or save for another use.

In large bowl, toss sweet potatoes, olive oil, salt, pepper and onion until coated.

Place silicone mat on baking sheet or line with aluminum foil.

Pour contents of bowl onto baking sheet in single layer. Remove rosemary from stems; sprinkle over vegetables. Bake 30 minutes until potatoes are almost tender.

Add beets to baking sheet. Return to oven 10-15 minutes, or until potatoes are fork-tender and beginning to brown. Garnish with additional rosemary, if desired. (Family Features) 

ENTERTAINMENT

‘Apple Cider Vinegar’ is a ‘A True Story Based on a Lie’

By Richard Roeper Signal Contributing Writer

‘Apple Cider Vinegar’

 1/2 (out of four)

A six-episode series streaming Thursday on Netflix.

Based on the number of limited series and documentaries about grifters and con artists in recent years, the 2010s seemed to be something of a Golden Age, or should we say Fool’s Gold Age, in the genre. The roster includes:

• “Inventing Anna” on Netflix, with Julia Garner as Anna Sorokin aka Anna Delvey, who posed as a wealthy heiress from 2013 to 2017.

Sunday-Thursday, Februar y 16 20, 2025

• “The Dropout” on Hulu, with Amanda Seyfried as disgraced Theranos founder Elizabeth Holmes, who was indicted on fraud charges in 2018 and eventually sentenced to 11 1/2 years in prison.

• “Operation Varsity Blues: The Col-

lege Admissions Scandal,” a Netflix documentary about the parents of college applicants shelling out millions of dollars to secure scholarships. In dramatic re-enactments, Matthew Modine plays putative educational consultant William Rick Singer.

2025 O s c a r N O m i N at e d s h O r t F i l m s - a N i m at i O N Sun: 1:30 PM; Mon: 7:30 PM; Tue: 1:30 PM; Wed: 7:30 PM; Thu: 1:30 PM

2025 O s c a r N O m i N at e d s h O r t F i l m s - d O c u m e N ta ry

Sun & Mon: 10:00 4:00; Tue to Thu: 4:00 PM

2025 O s c a r N O m i N at e d s h O r t F i l m s - l i v e ac t i O N

Sun: 10:10 7:30; Mon: 10:10 1:30; Tue: 7:30 PM; Wed: 1:30 PM; Thu: 7:30 PM

B e cO m i N g l e d Z e p p e l i N C 1:10 4:10 7:10

Becoming Led Zeppelin explores the orig ns of this conic group and their meteoric rise in just one year against all the odds

c a p ta i N a m e r i c a: B r av e N e w wO r l d C Sun & Mon: 10:10 1:10 4:10 7:10; Tue to Thu: 1:10 4:10 7:10

Anthony Mackie returns as the high-ﬂying hero Sam Wilson, who s oﬃcially taken up the mantle of Capta n Amer ca

i’m s t i l l h e r e C Sun & Mon: 10:00 AM

Eunice Paiva a mother of ﬁve children is forced to reinvent herse f after her family suﬀers a violent and arbitrar y act by the government paddiNgtON iN peru B Sun & Mon: 10:30 1:30 4:30 7:20; Tue to Thu: 1:30 4:30 7:20

The high y ant cipated third Paddington ﬁlm brings Paddington s stor y to Peru as he returns to vis t h s be oved Aunt Luc y

lOv e h u r ts E 1:00 3:05 5:10 7:20

Mar vin Gable, a realtor work ng the Milwaukee suburbs, is thrust back nto a world of ruthless h tmen, ﬁ led with double - crosses and open houses turned into deadly warzones

dOg maN B Sun & Mon: 10:20 12:50 3:05 5:15 7:30; Tue to Thu: 12:50 3:05 5:15 7:30

When a dog and a police oﬃcer are injured together on the job, a life-saving surgery changes the course of history when Dog Man s born m a m e r e D Sun & Mon: 10:00 AM

In the sun-soaked Canar y Is ands, a d sturbing and unhealthy relat onship develops between 17-yearold Pierre and his mother Helene after his father d es n an auto accident

a cO m p l e t e u N k N Ow N E Sun to Tue: 12:50 3:55 7:00; Wed: 12:50 3:55; Thu: 12:50 3:55 7:00

An en gmat c 19-yearold from Minnesota arrives with his guitar and revolut onar y talent, destined to change the course of Amer can mus c

l e p e t i t B lO N d d e l a c a s Ba h Wed: 7:00 PM

• “Bad Vegan: Fame. Fraud. Fugitives.” This Netflix documentary chronicles the story of the vegan raw restaurant owner and entrepreneur Sarma Melngailis, who was convicted of fraud in 2017.

• “The Tinder Swindler” on Netflix, which told the story of a Ponzi scheme that conned victims out of hundreds of millions of dollars in the 2010s.

Now comes the six-part Netflix dramatic series “Apple Cider Vinegar,” a head-spinning and engrossing dramatization of the story of Belle Gibson, whose long con was particularly nefarious. It was damning enough that Gibson spun an elaborate biography in which she falsely stated she had brain cancer and claimed she was defeating the odds via alternative methods. It was even worse that Gibson became a social media star, landing a lucrative book deal and creating an app for her brand that was given a coveted preinstalled position when Apple Watch launched.

Most obscene of all, Gibson’s crackpot theories negatively impacted real cancer patients who were given false hope, and she never followed through on promises to send donated funds to families who had been impacted by cancer.

“Apple Cider Vinegar” creator Samantha Strauss (“Nine Perfect Strangers”) favors a style reminiscent of films such as “The Wolf of Wall Street” and “The Big Short,” peppering the screen with colorful graphics and having characters breaking the fourth wall at the outset of episodes, as when Kaitlyn Dever as Belle looks right at us in the premiere and says, “This is a true story based on a lie. Some names have been changed to protect the innocent. Belle Gibson has not been paid for the re-creation of her story. F---ers.”

Admirably, though, the series never pulls back in its portrayal of Gibson as a pathological liar and borderline sociopath and narcissist who never even seems to consider the damage she’s causing as she makes her grab for fame and fortune. Every time Belle is called out on a lie, be it relatively minor or blimp-sized, she turns it into a pity party and proves to be a master of deflection and improvisational fib-building.

The Phoenix-born Dever gives a screen-grabbing performance and only occasionally slips with a more than passable Australian accent, while most of the other main players in this largely Australian-set story are from Oz.

Alycia Debnam-Carey gives a heartbreaking performance as Milla Blake, a role loosely based on the late, real-life Australian writer Jessica Ainscough, who really did have a rare cancer diagnosis, and chose to treat her sarcoma with alternative treatments, including multiple coffee enemas every day, and constant juicing. There’s an “All About Eve” vibe to the dynamic between Belle and Milla, who become online allies and then bitter rivals, as Milla encourages her close friend Chanelle (Aisha Dee), who worked for both influencers, to expose Belle for her lies.

Mark Coles Smith is the conscience of the story as an investigative journalist who has a particularly vested interest in exposing Belle’s lies, as his wife, Lucy (Tilda Cobham-Hervey), has breast cancer and has become an ardent fan of Belle’s.

“Apple Cider Vinegar” has an unnecessarily haphazard timeline, jumping back and forth between Melbourne and Santa Monica and Sydney and 2010 and 2013 and 2015 and 2015 (again) and then back to 2010 more than a dozen times in just the first episode. With so many storylines to follow, that just makes it extra challenging to keep up.

More impressive is how the series conveys drastic changes in mood. When Belle and/or Milla are becoming social media stars, it’s almost like an upbeat 2012 rom-com, filmed in bright colors, with needle drops from Sara Bareilles and Katy Perry, whereas the scenes in hospitals are lensed in muted blues and off-whites.

We never get the definitive answer as to why Belle Gibson perpetuated so many lies for so long, most likely because there IS no clear-cut answer. What we’re left with is a simmering sense of anger at Belle, and the deepest possible sympathies for anyone who in their darkest moments would quite understandably and quite sadly cling to her story for solace. 

PHOTO ©IMDB

Could Your Fatigue and Breathing Symptoms Be EGPA?

An estimated 5,000 people in the United States are living with Eosinophilic Granulomatosis with Polyangiitis (EGPA), a rare form of vasculitis that causes inflammation or swelling in the small and medium blood vessels. While it can cause damage to organs throughout the body, it most often affects the lungs.

The American Lung Association’s new EGPA Educational Campaign, provided with support from AstraZeneca and GlaxoSmithKline, strives to educate people living with EGPA, and their families and caregivers about this serious, but treatable disease. Here’s what they want you to know:

Symptoms are varied: EGPA can manifest differently based on what organs are affected. However, nearly everyone living with EGPA will experience these signs and symptoms:

• Feeling frequently ill and tired

• Loss of appetite, resulting in weight loss

• Fever

• Asthma and/or sinus polyps

• A higher-than-normal level of eosinophils, a type of white blood cell

Patients may also experience shortness of breath, coughing, chest pain, rashes, muscle and joint pain, nasal discharge, facial pain, abdominal pain

or bloody stools, numbness or loss of strength, tingling in hands and feet, and kidney disease.

Persistence, patience are key to diagnosis: Timely diagnosis and treatment are critical to optimally managing and minimizing symptoms. But getting the right diagnosis may take years, and involve a clinical exam, blood tests to check your white blood count, a urinalysis, a chest X-ray or CT scan, and a biopsy. Those who have been through the process say it can be frustrating, and that persistence is needed to get proper care.

“My first EGPA symptoms included severe adult-onset asthma, congestion due to nasal and sinus polyps, arm pain due to neuropathy, and urticaria – a condition that causes hives. Despite being a physician myself and asking repeatedly if I had EGPA, I didn’t receive the right diagnosis and treatment for 2.5 years. Eventually I paid out of pocket to see an EGPA expert and enrolled in an EGPA clinical trial. After various medication adjustments, I am now 10 years out from diagnosis, and have had no active symptoms for 5 years,” says Dr. Anne Tournay, an EGPA patient.

Treatment can help: There is no cure, but treatment can reduce symptoms, decrease the risk of organ damage, and improve your quality of life. Because EGPA can affect multiple organs, you

may need to work with more than one healthcare provider. They’ll review your disease severity, the organs involved, current medications, and other health conditions. Medications may be prescribed, such as anti-inflammatories, which help reduce swelling in the body, immunosuppressants, which can lower your immune system’s activity, and biologics, which target inflammation caused by eosinophils.

Lifestyle changes support management: Good health practices, like keeping vaccinations up to date, eating a well-balanced diet, staying active and getting adequate sleep can help you feel your best. It is also important to quit smoking, to avoid secondhand smoke and to protect yourself from fumes, dust and chemicals. Other strategies include tracking any new, worsening or changing EGPA side effects or symptoms, managing your asthma and seeing your healthcare provider regularly. To learn more about EGPA, visit Lung.org/ EGPA.

By better understanding Eosinophilic Granulomatosis with Polyangiitis, you can take control of your symptoms, get needed support, and better manage the disease. (SPT) 

Pros and Cons of Open Concept Floor Plans

Open floor plans that make it easy to move through primary living and entertaining areas have been popular for decades. Open concept floor plans join the dining room, kitchen and living (great) room into a communal space where sight lines are maximized and walls are minimal.

According to JJones Design Co., the origins of open concept floor plans may be traced to the deaf community. An open layout allows for better visual communication and awareness of one’s surroundings, and some deaf individuals modified their kitchen and living spaces to facilitate more room for social gatherings and signing.

Nowadays, it’s nearly impossible to find a new construction with closedoff rooms. Here’s a look at some of the pros and cons of having an open-concept home.

Benefit

Open concept plans make small spaces feel bigger. When smaller homes are broken up by walls, they can seem even smaller. By tearing down walls, one can trick the mind into thinking there is more square footage.

Drawback

The space may feel too large. An open concept floor plan in a large home can make interior spaces feel cavernous. A cozy home can be difficult to achieve with fewer walls.

Benefit

Open concept plans facilitate the

An open layout allows for better visual communication and awareness of one’s surroundings, and some deaf individuals modified their kitchen and living spaces to facilitate more room for social gatherings and signing.

flow of natural light. Without walls to break up rooms, homeowners can maximize light coming in through their windows. This also may help to brighten darker rooms that do not get as much natural light.

Drawback

Privacy can be hard to achieve. Unobstructed views from windows and doors can make it more challenging to create privacy when desired. When window shades are open, passersby can see into a home. Also, sunlight may end up wearing out flooring and furniture throughout the home.

Benefit

Open floor plans allow more space to spread out when entertaining. One

of the biggest plusses of open floor plans is that it makes it easier to host crowds. Guests can enjoy the communal space, while hosts can still interact with friends and family even while preparing meals in the kitchen.

Drawback:

Homeowners will likely need to do more cleaning ahead of hosting guests, as multiple rooms will be on display. Also, cleanup afterwards may be more arduous since guests have spent time in multiple spaces.

Benefit

Open concept plans can improve property value. The home renovation experts at The Spruce note open floor plans are desirable and increase the

value of a home by up to 7.4% a year.

Drawback

Some home buyers are beginning to shy away from open floor plans. This may have been prompted by stay-at-home requirements during the COVID-19 pandemic, when multiple family members were working and doing school work at home. In that environment, an open-concept layout didn’t provide the privacy or distraction-free spaces residents may have needed.

Open floor plans have been around for more than 30 years, but they aren’t everyone’s cup of tea. The pros and cons of this design style merits consideration when renovating or shopping for a home. (MC) 

Design Expert:s Open Floor Plans May Be Giving Way to Separate Spaces

pen concept floor plans may be losing appeal. According to the design experts with Martha Stewart, open floor plans are giving way to a rise in separate spaces.

Older homes with many rooms featured considerably less square footage than modern properties. According to Madeline Merin, a New York-based designer, the average size of a home in the United States has doubled from 1,000 square feet in 1950 to 2,300 square feet now. Instead of taking down walls, which is often done to make small homes seem more spacious, owners of

larger homes are looking to delineate between rooms to help homes feel more cozy. The global pandemic led some homeowners to rethink the rooms in their homes when many were forced to cohabitate around-the-clock. Many would now rather see a return to defined gathering spaces and areas where residents can retreat for some privacy and personal time. Furthermore, Taylor Hill of Taylor Hill Interior Design says that some homeowners are increasingly appreciative of walls for their architectural appeal and not just for their utility in separating spaces. (MC) 

Tips To Help Houseplants Thrive Over the Winter

Winter can be harsh. Frigid temperatures and fewer hours of daylight can take a toll, and many people prefer to stay warm inside as much as possible during winter. Indoor air also can take a toll, leading to dry skin and increasing individuals’ exposure to viruses such as those that cause the common cold. Warm and dry indoor air also can affect houseplants, which underscores how important it is to change your indoor plant care routine in winter.

Outdoor plants might not bloom or thrive once winter arrives, but houseplants can make it through the season with a few simple strategies.

Cut Back On Watering, If Necessary

The relationship between sunlight and water in regard to houseplants is simple: the more light plants get, the more water they need. Because there’s less daylight in winter, houseplants may not need to be watered as frequently as they will during other times of year. But that could depend on where the plant is located in the house.

If it’s near a window with substantial sunlight exposure, then it might need as much water as it requires during other times of year. Soil conditions may provide clues as to how frequently houseplants need to be watered in winter. Touch the soil before watering. If it’s wet or feels damp, the plant does not require watering.

Mobilize Your Houseplants

Some houseplants may be too large and heavy to move. However, smaller plants may benefit from being more mobile. When moving houseplants, move them to a spot where they can get ample sunlight during the day, especially if they’re typically located in areas of your home that do not get much exposure to sunlight in the winter.

Keep Plants Away From Vents

Anyone who lives in a region where winter temperatures get very cold knows that conditions sometimes require bumping up the temperature on the thermostat. That can make a home more comfortable for humans but less comfortable for houseplants.

It’s always best to keep houseplants away from heating vents so they won’t dry out and potentially die. If the thermostat needs to be adjusted to warm up the house, confirm all plants are away from vents to ensure they don’t dry and out and potentially die.

Check for Uninvited Guests

Summer might be the season most synonymous with pests, but houseplants are not invulnerable to uninvited pest guests in winter. The pest control experts at Terminix® dispute the popular notion that spiders flock to home interiors in fall to avoid the coming winter cold.

However, the experts at Better Homes & Gardens note that spider mites are common winter pests because they like warm and dry conditions. BHG

urges individuals to inspect the tops and undersides of houseplant leaves and stems for signs of pest infestation. Treat small infestations with an alcohol-soaked cotton ball, which can be used to wipe pests off the plants. Large infestations may re-

quire the use of insecticidal soap. Winter is harsh on humans and can be hard on houseplants as well. Some simple strategies can help houseplants get through the season unscathed. (MC)

Greenhouses Extend Your Growing Season

Modern, large-scale agriculture operations use various machines and technologies to provide products to consumers. Greenhouses are among the resources used to help plants thrive.

Modern, smart greenhouses, according to the cultivation technology company Growlink, employ smart technology for heating, cooling and lighting. This tech is connected to a computer to optimize plant growth conditions.

Computers can adjust conditions accordingly for the particular plant being produced, such as for tropical fruits that require more moisture and heat.

Anyone who desires a greenhouse for personal plant growth can build one in their backyard with various plans available for free or purchase. Companies also sell prefabricated greenhouse kits that can be erected with relative ease.

Handy homeowners also can construct basic greenhouses with materials found at many home improvement retailers. A wood frame greenhouse can be built in any size and covered with plastic sheeting.

One can purchase a prefabricated green-

house door or simply use a sheet of weighted plastic that can be tied out of the way for the door. To allow for ventilation in hot weather, a wood-frame vent that can be propped open can be incorporated into the roof rafter design. Those who want a more permanent structure may want to look into using greenhouse plastic paneling in lieu of plastic sheeting. Either way, home greenhouses can be as elaborate or as simple as individuals desire.

Greenhouses are effective ways to extend growing seasons for both commercial and home gardeners. (MC) 

©ADOBE STOCK

Common Car Components and Their Functions

It’s been said it takes a village to raise a child. And when it comes to cars and trucks, scores of components are required to ensure a vehicle is operational. Various parts must work in concert to power a car or truck.

Drivers may not fully understand the roles of the key components under the hood and elsewhere. The following are some of the parts and features involved in vehicle operation.

Engine

The engine is the most important component in a gas-powered vehicle. Without it, the vehicle would not move. Most modern vehicles are powered by an internal combustion

engine, which creates energy by igniting a mixture of fuel and air. Increasingly, however, customers are opting for electric motors that store energy in rechargeable batteries.

Cooling System

This component keeps the engine at a temperature that is optimal to prevent overheating. It consists of a radiator that transfers heat from the hot engine coolant to the atmosphere; a water pump that forces coolant to circulate; and a thermostat to regulate the engine’s operating temperature.

Transmission

The transmission is a complex system of gear sets, hydraulic torque

Above: The starter is responsible for turning the engine’s crankshaft. Right: The catalytic converter is an emissions control device. PHOTOS © ADOBESTOCK

converters, and clutches and bands. Automatic transmissions work automatically to shift to accelerate and decelerate as needed for a smooth driving experience. Drivers control a manual transmission.

AutoZone notes there’s also a continuously variable transmission that continuously adjusts the transmission ratio to optimize fuel efficiency.

Battery and Alternator

The battery stores energy so it can be released as electricity to run the vehicle’s electrical components. The alternator is responsible for generating electricity for the vehicle, but also to recharge the battery.

Catalytic Converter

This part is a component of the exhaust system. It is an emissions control device that will transform dangerous exhaust gases into water, carbon dioxide and nitrogen.

Brakes

The brakes on a vehicle slow it down and enable it to come to a stop. Cars will have disc or drum brake systems. Disc brakes include calipers, rotors and pads.

The calipers are housings for the brake pads and are responsible for converting hydraulic pressure when the driver presses the brake pedal into mechanical force.

The brake pads create friction against the brake rotor (a spinning disc), generating the force needed to stop the car.

Shock Absorbers

A car ride would be very rough and

bumpy without a suspension system. Shock absorbers are springs that smooth out the ride by ensuring the tires remain in contact with the road surface. Worn shocks can cause vibrations and uneven tire wear.

Starter and Solenoid

The starter is responsible for turning the engine’s crankshaft. When the ignition is engaged, it moves a small gear called a pinion. Then the starter motor spins, cranking the engine to initiate the combustion process.

The solenoid is an electro-mechanical switch between the battery and the starter that receives an electrical signal when the vehicle ignition is engaged. The solenoid powers the starter, which helps to crank the engine.

Steering System

The steering components transfer input from the steering wheel to the front wheels. Modern cars have power steering, which reduces the amount of effort needed to turn the steering wheel. The steering wheel rotates the steering column, which rotates the pinion gear that connects to a rack that extends the width of the vehicle

As the pinion rotates, it pushes the rack, which then moves the tie rods and steering knuckles on the front tires.

Vehicles have hundreds of parts that work together to start and move the car so that people can effortlessly get from point A to point B. (MC) 

What Older Adults Need to Know About Vaccines

Around the new year, many people set goals for better health. People ages 65 and older can kick off a healthy new year by getting vaccinated for flu, COVID-19 and RSV. These respiratory infections can become more dangerous as people age. Vaccines can help older people risk less severe illness and do more of what they enjoy.

Those who provide care for older adults can support their health by helping them get vaccinated now. That’s especially important because older people have a higher risk of getting very sick or even dying from flu, COVID-19 and RSV.

Vaccines Help Protect Older Adults From Serious Illness

As people get older, their ability to fight off infection decreases, putting them at higher risk for complications if they get a respiratory infection. They are more likely to get severely ill and need medical or hospital care from flu, COVID-19 and RSV. Those living in long-term care facilities often have health issues that make flu, COVID-19 and RSV serious risks.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention urges all people ages 6 months and older to get this sea-

Ason’s flu and COVID-19 vaccines.

Those ages 75 and older — or ages 60 and older with certain health issues or who live in a nursing home — should get one dose of an RSV vaccine if they haven’t had it before. It’s safe to get vaccines for flu and COVID-19 (and RSV, for those who are eligible) all at the same time. Any side effects from the vaccines are usually mild and go away on their own in a few days.

Vaccinations

for a Healthy

Cataracts

cataract is a clouding of the naturally transparent lens of the eye that can occur as one ages. Natural proteins in the lens clump together and can cloud the eye. The National Eye Institute says most cataracts develop with age, as more than half of all Americans age 80 or older either have cataracts or have had surgery to remove them.

But cataracts can occur for other reasons, such as after an eye injury or after surgery for another vision problem. The American Academy of Opthalmology says cataracts can make it seem like a person is looking through a foggy or dusty car windshield. Everything is hazy, blurry or less colorful.

Additional vision changes associated with cataracts include extra light sensitivity; seeing bright colors as faded or yellowed; seeing double or a ghosted image; and difficulty seeing at night. Using brighter lights at home or getting a new eyeglasses prescription can help manage cataracts in their early stages.

An eye doctor may suggest surgery if cataracts are getting in the way of daily activities. Surgery removes the clouded lens and replaces it with a new, artificial lens. (MC) 

New Year

Vaccines are a great way for older people to start the year by protecting their health. Most deaths from flu, COVID-19 and RSV are in people ages 65 and older, and the risk grows

with age. However, vaccines cut your risk of being in the hospital for flu or COVID-19 by about half and for RSV by about 70%, according to the CDC.

Those who look after older loved ones can help them avoid severe respiratory illness by helping them get vaccinated. In addition to getting vaccinated, there are other ways to help prevent serious illness. When around others indoors, use fans or open windows for better ventilation. Wearing a mask, using physical distancing and washing your hands often can also help. You can use home tests to check for COVID-19 if you have symptoms. Visit cdc.gov/RiskLessDoMore to learn more about flu, COVID-19 and RSV vaccines. Order your free COVID-19 test kits (up to four per household) at COVIDTests.gov. Talk with your doctor about which vaccines are right for you or an older adult you care for. Or go to vaccines. gov to get started and find a pharmacy near you. (Family Features) 

The ability to fight off infection decreases as people get older. Vaccines help reduce that risk. ©Shutterstock

Tips on How to Save When Inflation Is High

Consumers likely need no reminder that inflation has taken a notable toll on their finances in recent years. The cost of products and services has seemingly skyrocketed in recent years, leaving consumers with little recourse other than to scale back and find ways to save.

The online financial resource Investopedia notes that the inflation rate is the percentage change in the price of products and services from one year to the next.

Data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics indicates the inflation rate reached 8% in 2022, or four times the 2% rate of inflation the Federal Reserve aims to maintain through its various monetary policies.

Indeed, inflation continues to affect people from all walks of life. However, consumers can consider various strategies to save even when inflation is keeping costs up.

Use Rewards to Your Advantage

Consumers now have an array of ways to pay for products and services at their disposal. Conventional wisdom has long suggested credit cards should be used only in emergencies, but consumers who are confident they can pay off balances in full each month can consider using rewards-based credit cards to their advantage.

Such cards return a certain percentage of each purchase (typically around 1 to 2%) to consumers, and they can be used to purchase everyday items like groceries and gas. Of course, this only benefits consumers if they pay off their balances in full each month. If not, the interest charges on credit cards will almost certainly exceed the 1 to 2% cash back consumers earn.

Open a High-Yield Savings Account

The days of earning significant interest on savings accounts may seem like a distant memory, but

high-yield savings accounts are still available at many financial institutions.

Consumers intent on building their savings in the face of a higher cost of living can look into high-yield savings account options at their own bank or another financial institution. High-yield savings accounts typically mandate account holders maintain a minimum balance that is considerably higher than the minimum balances on accounts with lower interest rates, so this might not be an option for everyone.

But consumers who have already squirreled away a significant sum in their savings accounts may be able to grow their money, and thus overcome inflation rates, by transferring the balance to a highyield savings account.

Examine Your Spending

Perhaps the simplest way to save when inflation is high is to periodically assess your spending habits and make tweaks designed to save money. Such assessments can include everything from identifying ways to save at the grocery store to determining if entertainment subscriptions are worth the investment.

Many consumers have lamented the high cost of groceries since 2022, and it’s possible a membership to a wholesale retailer like Costco¨ can help reduce expenditures on various items, including paper products, that tend to be expensive at more traditional grocery stores.

Data indicates inflation has cooled considerably in 2024. But the cost of many items remains high, forcing consumers to rely on various ways to save money. (MC) 

Applying For An Extension On Your Tax Return

The Internal Revenue Service reports that the deadline to file a 2025 tax return is Tuesday, April 15, 2025. The vast majority of taxpayers will have no issue filing by the deadline, but some may not be able to file on time. In such instances, taxpayers can apply for an extension of time to file. An extension is not necessarily as straightforward as the term suggests. In fact, the IRS urges taxpayers to be aware that applying for an extension does not grant taxpayers an extension of time to pay their taxes. Failure to pay by the April 15 deadline could

incur penalties, even for people who have applied for an extension. The IRS urges taxpayers to estimate any owed taxes by the deadline and submit payments for those estimates by April 15.

Extension requests must be submitted by the regular return due date. Some taxpayers may not have to submit an extension return. The IRS notes that taxpayers in certain disaster areas do not need to submit an ex-

tension electronically or on paper. Individual taxpayers, regardless of income, can use the IRS Free File (www.irs.gov/filing/free-file-do-yourfederal-taxes-for-free) to request an automatic tax-filing extension. Filing that form gives taxpayers until October 15 to file a return. If October 15 falls on a Saturday, Sunday or legal holiday, the due date is extended until the next business day. It’s important that taxpayers filing for the October 15 extension deadline recognize that they must still estimate their tax liability on the Free File form and pay any estimated taxes owed. (MC) 

PHOTO ©ADOBE STOCK

QI really enjoyed the first two seasons of “The Recruit” on Netflix. It’s hard to tell if there will be a third one. Will there be?

— K.W.

AIt’s too soon to tell, but after the first season of the spy-adventure series “The Recruit” debuted on Netflix, it was a big streaming success. The series stars Noah Centineo (“The Fosters”) as a rookie CIA lawyer. His first assignment involved Russia, but the second season that premiered on Jan. 30 led him to Seoul, South Korea, where he’s assigned to rescue the wife of a rogue NIS agent (Teo Yoo).

Showrunner Alexi Hawley, whose previous producing credits include “The Rookie,” views Centineo’s character, Owen, as “flawed, young and selfish.” Hawley further explains that “even though Owen had no busi-

BOOK REVIEW

Noah Centineo stars in “The Recruit” on Netflix. PHOTO CREDIT RICARDO HUBBS/NETFLIX

ness getting involved [in the Korean assignment] in the first place, this presented an opportunity for him to prove his worth — not only to the CIA but to everyone he disappointed last season, including himself.” The creative team really wanted to see him grow up this second time around and show that it’s “not all fun and games — people get killed.”

As far as a season three renewal, the show’s fate isn’t known yet. According to Forbes, Netflix typically analyzes a show’s performance over sever-

BookTrib’s Bites

Functional Architecture of the Human Mental

By Joseph J. Jean-Claude and Caroline Stamu-O’Brien

Millions of adult Americans suffer from serious psychological distress. If you are struggling with depression, anxiety, hypomania, etc., or caring for a close one with psychosis, you’ve possibly tapped into numerous selfhelp books with theories about what you are feeling and facing, and how to cope.

Now there’s another book, referred to as “A Reference Psychophysics Treatise of Human Mentation and its Disorders.” It sits in the Health Sciences collections at Harvard, Cambridge, Oxford, Université de Paris, and many others.

A quintessential reference book dissecting every human mental condition – both current and compre-

al weeks to months before deciding. Unfortunately, the streamer has also developed a reputation for canceling shows too quickly after just one or two seasons, but hopefully with its strong initial numbers, “The Recruit” will be given the green light.

QWhen is the new “Outlander” spin-off coming out? Will it also be on Starz or somewhere else? — D.P.

A“Outlander: Blood of My Blood” is a prequel series to “Outlander,” which recently wrapped up its seventh season (the eighth will be its last) on Starz. The prequel will have 10 episodes in its debut season, but it won’t premiere until this summer. It did, however, drop a teaser just ahead of the “Outlander” finale a couple weeks ago.

According to Entertainment Weekly, “Blood of My Blood” will tell the story of the parents of Jamie (Sam Heughan) and Claire (CaitrÃona Balfe), as well as their respective love stories in both 18th-century Scotland and World-War-I-era England. Matthew B. Roberts, one of the co-showrunners behind “Outlander,” will

hensive critical resource for clinical practice and beyond. This massive work exposes several decades of mathematical-physics research in human emotions, cognition, behavior, personality, and a multitude of psychiatric diagnostic entities.

The Empty Kayak

By Jode Millman

For Detective Ebony Jones, crime is always personal. But this time, it strikes too close to home. A popup thunderstorm marches its way across the Hudson River, ambushing a young couple’s kayaking trip. The woman miraculously makes it back to

write and preside over the new series.

QWhat ever happened to Paula Patton? I remember she was married to Robin Thicke, but wasn’t she also an actress?

— M.M.

APaula Patton divorced her popstar husband and high-school sweetheart Robin Thicke in 2015 and appears to be living a peaceful life if you follow her Instagram account. The terms of their divorce settlement are private, but she still does acting jobs to exercise her creativity and supplement her income.

Patton most recently guest-starred on the new drama “Murder in a Small Town,” but before this, she starred in the BET+ original series “Sacrifice” as well as “Somewhere Between” on ABC. She and Thicke share a 14-yearold son named Julian.

Send me your questions at NewCelebrityExtra@gmail.com, or write me at KFWS, 628 Virginia Drive, Orlando, FL 32803. 

shore, but her fiancé remains missing. Ebony and her partner are the first responders who rush to the river to assist in rescuing the capsized boater. The victim’s identity shocks Ebony. It’s Kyle Emory, ex-boyfriend of her estranged best friend, attorney Jessie Martin. The accident ignites a firestorm between the two friends, pitting them against each other in a race to discover whether Kyle’s death was an accident, a suicide, or murder. Along the way, they uncover lies and betrayals, and gather a list of dangerous suspects all linked to the mysterious survivor.

After Here

By Dave Wolffe

For fans of Mitch Albom’s The Five People You Meet in Heaven, this book chronicles the journey of Joe Golden from his fatal car accident through Heaven. Joe meets people both familiar to him and those who are not, all the while on a mission to find his beloved wife who had passed away one year prior to Joe’s death.

This story brings to life the afterlife experience in rich, provocative detail, offering to readers who believe in the afterlife as well as those who do not have a means to envision a place where their deceased loved ones may be enjoying a peaceful existence. This message will bring deep comfort and encouragement to adult readers who have suffered the loss of a loved one or someone special in their lives.  BookBites is presented by BookTrib. com.

SOLUTIONS

Opinion

READER LETTERS

Tried and True

In Re: Saugus Union School District parents, teachers express frustrations over student behavior, by Maya Morales, Feb. 6. I read this article and had to go back and read it again to make sure I hadn’t missed the part where these little brats' parents were called into the principal's office to discuss and correct their kids' aberrant behavior.

Unfortunately, I hadn’t missed it because NOTHING was mentioned in the entire article about the parents of these kids.

I’ve been around awhile and have three kids in their 50s and six adult grandkids and, like everyone reading this, I also went to school and vividly recall what happened when a student misbehaved in class or even during recess. Straight to the principal's office, where the parents were called.

Without getting too political, perhaps the Trump administration is right on track in returning the tried and true process of running schools back to state and local governments and out of the bloated federal government.

Rick Barker Valencia

City Hall: Listen on Bike Lane Paddles

There have now been several rousing commentaries in The Signal decrying the new bike lane “paddles” that have been installed on Orchard Village Road. In addition to their decided unattractiveness, I should point out that they are now also presenting an enhanced safety hazard.

Making a right turn off of Dalbey Drive onto Orchard Village has always had sightline issues of oncoming traffic; fast-moving vehicles coming up Orchard Village are difficult to see because of the density of the trees lining the road. This is an especially dangerous intersection with heavy traffic at school pickup times, and there have been numerous accidents over the years. Now I have noticed that the oncoming vehicles are even harder to see due to the upright bike lane “paddles” additionally blocking one’s view. A petition to get these unwanted and ugly things removed would be welcome. Do you think City Hall would listen?

Lawrence Nikolai Valencia

They Get Funded by Force

Federal employees who are aghast at the idea of downsizing don’t seem to understand how elections work or what their job properly is as part of the government (which, unlike any other employer, obtains its funding by force). They keep talking about Donald Trump being a dictator, but unlike them, he was elected, and elected on doing precisely what he is doing. And they keep talking about how important they are, and yet their job is only funded at the point of a gun; thus given a choice, most people would not voluntarily pay for their “services.”

Rob Kerchner Santa Clarita

ETHICALLY SPEAKING

Peril of Forced Unanimity

By David Hegg

With the installation of a new presidential administration, a sleeping giant appears to have been awakened. Almost overnight, strong voices have risen to say things most were afraid to utter only months ago. This reticence was a response to mandated ideological narratives that carried the power to ostracize, if not cancel, any who dared stand and speak the undeniable truths of history and natural law.

and argument to dispose of the chaff to find the kernel of justice.

So why do we allow our national discussion to be confined to unanimity? Here’s my answer. It is clear to me that those who know deep down that their premise is faulty, even absurd, and dangerous must demand two things to maintain their equilibrium.

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For example, the tidal wave of diversity, equity and inclusion had overwhelmed the decks of our governmental and industrial entities, and many were in grave danger of sinking beneath the surface of usefulness. And yet, the same proponents of this movement, built on the faulty premise that membership in a protected class was more valuable than experience, skill and knowledge, refused to tolerate anyone, regardless of class, who engaged in reasoned rebuttal.

Over the past few years, we have watched the destructive results of forced unanimity, where different views were disallowed.

When I first entered pastoral ministry, I faced several leadership challenges. I learned many churches operate under the rubric of unanimous board leadership. Simply put, many churches have decided their governing boards or sessions must be unanimous in making all their decisions. Being new to the game 35 years ago, I adopted that philosophy in my first position as a senior pastor.

Here’s what I found out. Forced unanimity stifles robust dialogue. If you have good people in places of leadership, it is often the case that they do not want to be the ones who stand in the way of progress, especially if they are not perfectly convinced of the best way to go. And if the only way forward is through unanimous consent, most good-hearted leaders will acquiesce for the organization to advance. But what is lost is the possibility that the group needs their apprehension.

It is both laudable and unsurprising that our founding fathers built our republic on the premise of separation of powers but not on mandatory unanimity. Their genius is seen in how point and counterpoint work to sharpen specific ideas while blunting others. Our entire justice system is also grounded in an adversarial system that pits the prosecution against the defense and the plaintiff against the defendant. The result is robust dialogue

First, they require not only acceptance but also approval and applause. Think about the collection of transgender assertions, arguments and examples. Consider the rationale behind the labeling of abortion as health care and reproductive freedom. In these and many more cases, those involved must know that they are waging war on natural law and colluding with those down through history who were known for their inhumane treatment of their fellow humans.

But they persist in duplicity in that, beyond all rationality, they have forced themselves to believe and demand from others. To salvage some semblance of righteousness, they require that the rest of us say their cause is good and right. When we don’t, they malign us as filled with any of their myriad types of hatred.

Secondly, they have defined all opposition and all arguments, no matter how cogent, as prejudicial, tyrannical and extremely dangerous, and therefore not permitted. When faced with the truth that their philosophical arguments are, at best, weak and, at worst, nonsensical and patently false, they do all they can, not to lift every voice but to silence all who oppose.

We have recently experienced several years of forced unanimity, and looking around, it has done enormous damage. We have suffered through a drought and now find ourselves in a famine. The drought was not caused by a lack of rain but by a severe lack of credible voices offering reasonable, rational arguments and solutions. That has left us with what can be labeled a famine of truth. Someone has said that trust was what died during COVID-19. As I look around, I must agree. But all is not lost. Trust is a byproduct of truth, and truth must rise again in our country, our cities, our schools, our families, and most importantly, in our hearts and minds as citizens of the greatest country in the history of the world.

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