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Science Secrets for Smooth Winter Skin

Insights from a chemist to break free from dry skin woes

If the dropping temperatures instantly make your skin feel dry and uncomfortable, you’re not alone. Between the frigid air outside and overheated air inside, the winter months are loaded with skin stressors that can put your skin on a seemingly endless dry skin roller coaster. According to Dr. Kate Biberdorf, also known as Kate the Chemist, this roller coaster can lead to a weakened skin barrier.

“Think of your skin barrier as a leaky bucket, and you’re constantly trying to fill it with moisturizersbut things like changes in temperature and humidity levels can strip the skin of moisture and contribute to leaks,” explained Kate. “The best solution is to fix the holes in the bucket to strengthen the skin barrier.”

If you find yourself reaching for product after product to get your skin off the dry skin roller coaster, here are Kate the Chemist’s tips to keep your skin looking and feeling its best all winter long.

Protect Your Skin from Winter Stressors

Our skin barrier responds to the humidity of the air around us, absorbing and releasing moisture to maintain a balance. To help protect your skin from everything that comes with cold months, it’s important to consider what the skin needs when you’re inside or out.

When spending time indoors with the heat on, try to avoid bumping up the thermostat higher than is necessary for comfort. This makes the air hotter, drying out your skin. Consider adding an in-room or whole-home humidifier to moderate the moisture in the air or upgrade your thermostat

to one that indicates the humidity levels in your home. Your skin and your energy bills will thank you.

When you head outside, whether enjoying winter sports or playing with the kids outside, defend your skin from inclement weather by bundling up. Go for breathable layers that will keep you cozy and can be shed in case you get too warm. Grab a fashionable hat, scarf and glove set to top it o ff! Finally, make sure you’re wearing sunscreen on any exposed skin. The American Academy of Dermatology recommends wearing sunscreen every day if you will be outside to protect your skin from harmful UV rays.

Don’t Use Any Old Body Wash or Lotion

Key to breaking the dry skin cycle are the products you use to cleanse and moisturize your skin. “Certain body care products hydrate the skin temporarily but don’t help repair the skin barrier. That’s why your skin feels dry again within a few hours,” said Kate. Body care products that actually help repair the skin barrier make all the difference. Kate recommends using the Olay Hyaluronic Body Wash and Olay Hyaluronic Body Lotion to help break the dry skin cycle.

Olay Hyaluronic Body Wash is formulated with moisturizing ingredients that penetrate the skin’s surface to nourish and restore dry, thirsty skin from within. The body wash is also dermatologically approved by the Skin Health Alliance (SHA), a global organization of independent dermatologists and skin scientists that assess the research and development behind various products to help consumers know what’s good for their skin.

“Olay’s Hyaluronic Body Wash and Body Lotion are packed with skin-loving ingredients, including petrolatum, hyaluronic acid, and a special Vitamin B3 Complex,” said Kate. “These products go the extra mile by diving 10 layers deep into your skin, leaving you with visibly healthier skin. Olay’s special blend of moisturizers isn’t just your average skin saver - it’s a unique formula that deeply nourishes your skin barrier, helping it become stronger and healthier looking over time.”

Shower with Care

How you shower can also impact your skin. “By taking short showers with warm water rather than hot water, you can help to keep your skin’s natural oils in your skin where they belong,” Kate noted. After showering with Olay Hyaluronic Body Wash, gently towel off and apply the matching Hyaluronic lotion to your skin while it’s still a bit damp and feel the result.

“Winter can be really rough on the skin,” added Kate. “So make a great body care routine part of your daily ritual. You’ll look and feel so much better when you get off that dry skin roller coaster and break the dry skin cycle for good!”

Learn more about how to care for your skin at Olay.com. (BPT) 

Surreal Places That You Won’t Believe Exist in LA

By Ashlyn Davis Secret Los Angeles

If international travel seems a little out of reach, allow us to turn your attention to the spectacular wonders that are right in our own backyard. It’s no secret that Los Angeles is utterly brimming with diversity and creativity, so why not take the time to discover and rediscover local gems — even if they fall a little outside of the city’s edge. Every corner offers a new adventure, from tiled gems to enchanting structures based on fairytales.

Here are some of our favorite weird and wonderful places around Los Angeles that will make you feel like you’ve stepped into another world, perfect for the ultimate L.A. staycation.

Farou Food

4525 Chino Hills Pkwy. Chino Hills 91709

Yes, Chino Hills is filled with surprises. With a short 40-minute drive, nestled amongst chains like Arby’s and BJ’s Brewhouse, you’ll find a very impressive replica of the Egyptian Abu Simbel Temples that were chiseled into the mountains along the Nile River in 1244 B.C.

Heritage Square

3800 Homer St, Los Angeles, 90031

Why escape the city when you can escape the decade at the grounds dedicated to preserving Victorian-era structures and traditions? Its Gothic architecture offers a mysterious adventure into a completely different time as well as being a brilliant lesson in history.

The “Witch House” of Beverly Hills

516 North Walden Dr., Beverly Hills 90210

Why travel to another city when you can be whisked away on a storybook adventure? This whimsical “Witch House” brings fantasy to life through flawless attention to detail. Wandering past this stretch of the Beverly Hills neighborhood and stumbling upon this surreal architectural fantasy, you might think you’ve accidentally landed up in Disneyland.

The Venice and Long Beach Canals

Venice 90292

The Italian getaway that won’t leave you bankrupt and still has all the charm you could ask for. Both the Venice in Los Angeles and Naples canals in Long Beach have drawn inspiration from Venice, Italy’s stunning aquatic networks. In Long Beach, you can even take a trip on a gondola.

Bubble World: An Immersive Experience

1345 N. Montebello Blvd., Montebello 90640

Embark on an extraordinary journey at this dreamy ‘Bubble World’ experience that will sweep your senses to another world! Traverse more than 10 immersive spaces, each with a unique and imaginative theme, perfect for the most epic photo ops.

Discover firsthand why this limited-time experience stands out as one of the most exceptional immersive adventures in L.A. Whether you plunge into the ball pit or partake in the hot air balloon flight simulator for a spectacular date night, one thing is sure. This world is not to be missed, as it’s fun for all ages!

Saint Vincent Court

St. Vincent Court, Los Angeles 90014

Missing Europe? Well, luckily, L.A. has small pockets dedicated to recreating life in Italy. St. Vincent Court alleyway is made up of colorful shopfronts, cobbled brick paving, and charming cafes. It’s home to an eclectic mix of delis, cafes, Mediterranean and Middle Eastern restaurants, jewelry shops, a flower shop, and a tiny espresso bar.

Garden of Oz

3040 Ledgewood Dr, Los Angeles 90068

When you follow this yellow brick road, you won’t land up in Oz. Instead, you’ll find yourself in a mosaicked oasis filled with lush greenery. This Oz-inspired garden in the Hollywood Hills is a magical place created by local wizard Gail Cottman. Guests that are lucky enough to have a key will get a taste of Gaudi’s tiled gems in Barcelona.

Lummis Home

200 East Avenue 43 Los Angeles 90031

Los Angeles’ Lummis House, AKA El Alisal, was built by eccentric journalist Charles Fletcher Lummis More than 100 years ago. Stone by stone, Lummis built the 4,000-squarefoot craftsmanship home over 13 years, resulting in the head-turning castle-like structure in Montecito Heights. The house is now a lesserknown museum open to the public.

PHOTO CREDITS: FAROU FOOD, SECRET LA; WITCH HOUSE, SECRET LA; HERITAGE SQUARE, ATLAS OBSCURA; VENICE AND LONG BEACH CANALS, VISIT LONG BEACH; BUBBLE WORLD, SECRET LA; ST. VINCENT COURT, SECRET LA; GARDEN OF OZ, ATLAS OBSCURA; LUMMIS HOUSE, LAPARKS.ORG

Four Tips to Get High Cholesterol Under Control

Heart disease is the nation’s leading cause of death for men and women, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, but many people aren’t aware they may be at elevated risk. More than 71 million adults in the United States have high low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol and nearly 50 million don’t have it under control, which puts them at higher risk for cardiovascular events, such as heart attack and stroke.

What’s more, nearly one-third (31%) of U.S. adults are not aware that having high cholesterol puts them at greater risk for heart attack and stroke, according to the findings of a recent study conducted by The Harris Poll commissioned by Esperion Therapeutics, Inc. The poll also revealed some inconsistent understanding about treatment options available for those with uncontrolled cholesterol. Fully 3 in 10 (30%) of those taking statins believe statins are the only LDL lowering treatment available for those with high LDL cholesterol.

“In auto racing, the red flag means danger on the track, stopping the race immediately,” said Dr. JoAnne Foody, chief medical officer at Esperion. “We are launching a patient education program, ‘Wave the Red Flag,’ to encourage people with uncontrolled high cholesterol to have their levels checked right away and discuss appropriate treatment options with their health care provider.”

If your high cholesterol is uncontrolled, understanding how you can achieve greater control can reduce your risk for serious health conditions, including potentially life-threatening cardiovascular events.

Consider these tips to get high cholesterol under control.

Talk with Your Doctor

Speaking with your physician is an important first step to managing any health condition. Your doctor can help you understand the severity of your condition and whether a treatment plan

should be moderate or aggressive.

Check your progress. Keeping tabs on your cholesterol can help you and your health care team gauge whether your treatment plan is working. If you don’t have heart disease, you may not need to check as frequently, but your doctor can recommend the appropriate intervals to help manage your cholesterol most effectively.

Take medications as prescribed. Statins are the medications most often recommended by treatment guidelines for the management of blood cholesterol, and nearly one-third (30%) of those taking statins believe they are the only cholesterol-lowering treatment available, according to the survey.

However, even with maximal statin therapy, some patients with chronic disease do not meet recommended LDL cholesterol levels. Taking your medications regularly and as instructed helps your

Fast Facts About Cholesterol

What is cholesterol?

The liver creates a fat-like waxy substance called cholesterol. It serves useful purposes for the body, including producing hormones and helping digest food.

How do you get high cholesterol?

The human body makes all the cholesterol it needs naturally, so any cholesterol you eat is cholesterol you don’t need. However, it can be difficult to avoid because you can find dietary cholesterol in many common foods, including meat, seafood, poultry, eggs and dairy. Other non-dietary contributing factors include health conditions like obesity and diabetes, as well as family

history and advancing age.

What is a normal cholesterol level?

An average optimal level of LDL cholesterol is about 100 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL).

An average optimal level of high-density lipoprotein, or HDL, cholesterol is at least 40 mg/dL for men and 50 mg/dL for women. HDL cholesterol can actually lower your risk of heart disease and stroke.

Are there symptoms of high cholesterol?

Unlike many health conditions, there are rarely any symptoms that your cholesterol is high. That’s what makes regular screening so important. 

doctor determine whether additional therapiesincluding non-statin treatments — could be useful to help manage your blood cholesterol.

Make Lifestyle Adjustments

Your diet plays a major role in lowering LDL cholesterol. Limiting fatty foods, especially those that are high in saturated and trans fats, is key. Monitoring your overall diet and exercising can also help reduce your risk of high cholesterol. Even if you don’t have high cholesterol, adopting more cholesterol-friendly habits can help prevent your levels from rising to unhealthy levels in the future.

To find additional information about managing your high cholesterol, talk to your health care provider and visit WaveTheRedFlag.info. (Family Features) 

FROM THE CITY MANAGER City Says to Be a ‘Heads Up’ Driver and Pedestrian

By Ken Striplin Santa Clarita City Manager

Since City incorporation in 1987, public safety has remained a top priority for the City of Santa Clarita. As the weather warms up and more residents take to the streets and sidewalks for cycling and walking, it is important to be a Heads Up! driver and pedestrian. Recently, we have witnessed a surge in preventable car accidents occurring on our roadways. While the total number of collisions throughout the City has remained relatively consistent over the past few years, 2023 did see a measured increase in pedestrian-involved collisions compared to 2022. A majority of these collisions occurred at our intersections as a result of driver inattentiveness (72%) or pedestrians not obeying traffic rules and crossing against a red hand (28%). Now is an excellent time to evaluate our safety behaviors — whether we are drivers, pedestrians or cyclists — and take a Heads Up! mindset as we move around the City.

You can be a Heads Up! driver by obeying speed limits, using turn signals and ensuring that sidewalks and corners are pedestrian-free before pull-

ing out into traffic. Put away any distractions before you start the car. Remember, not only is using your cell phone while driving illegal in California, but it can also be potentially life-threatening. Texts and calls can wait until you reach your destination. Be extra cautious at stoplights and crosswalks, anticipating pedestrians and yielding the right of way to them. The most common cause of driver-at-fault accidents occur when the driver does not look before making a right turn and does not see the pedestrians crossing the crosswalk. Before turning, pause and look, keeping in mind that pedestrians might not see your vehicle approaching. Expect people in crosswalks and always check twice — then check again — before making a turn. Take particular caution in school zones and anywhere children may be active.

For those out walking or jogging, you can be a Heads Up! pedestrian in several ways. While it’s great to listen to music or your favorite podcast while exercising, it is essential to keep the volume in your headphones at a level that allows you to hear cars and emergency vehicle sirens. Removing headphones at intersections can help determine if crossing the street is safe. At crosswalks, ensure drivers acknowledge you by making eye contact before crossing. Be predictable and cross streets at marked crosswalks and intersections only. The majority of pedestrian accidents occur while trying to run across the road, rather than using a crosswalk safely — saving a few seconds is not worth the risk of losing your life. I encourage residents to embrace the City’s paseo system, pedestrian bridges and off-street trails, which allow you to avoid vehicular traffic altogether.

It is up to everyone to ensure that no matter where you go in Santa Clarita, your health and safety are protected. Let’s all continue to work together to protect our families and neighbors in this City we all love. Please visit SantaClarita.gov/ HeadsUp to learn more about what you can do to help improve traffic safety in Santa Clarita.

Ken Striplin is Santa Clarita’s City Manager and can be reached at kstriplin@santaclarita.gov. 

HEALTH

Dangers of Mixing Herbal and Prescription Meds

Medications improve the lives of billions of people across the globe every day. Without access to medication, millions may die while countless others would experience a dramatic decline in their quality of life.

Though there’s no denying the positive effects of medication, the efficacy of herbal supplements and prescription drugs does not mean each are risk-free. Risks may even be compounded when individuals take herbal supplements and prescription medications concurrently.

According to the Mayo Clinic, herbal supplements do not always interact well with prescription medications. For example, herbal supplements can interact with medicines utilized to treat issues affected the heart and blood vessels. That includes conditions like high blood pressure, which estimates from the World Health Organization indicate affects nearly 1.3 billion adults between the

ages of 30 and 79.

Mixing medications has always been risky, but a growing reliance on herbal medicines has potentially elevated that risk. That’s perhaps due to perceptions of herbal supplements as wholly natural, leading some to conclude that a substance that’s wholly natural cannot jeopardize the human body. However, an analysis published in the British Journal of Clinical Pharmacology detailed more than a dozen instances of adverse drug reactions affecting individuals who took herbal medicines alongside various prescription medications. The med-

ications taken, some of which were antidepressants, were prescribed to treat various conditions, including HIV, epilepsy and heart disease.

The potential dangers of mixing herbal and prescription medications underscore the need to engage in honest and open discussions with a physician before taking any herbal or prescription medications. Individuals currently taking a prescription medication should consult with their physician before taking any herbal supplements, while those who take herbal medicines and supplements should bring that up with their phy-

sicians if they are prescribed a new medication.

What are some symptoms of herbal and prescription interactions?

The Mayo Clinic notes that a fast heartbeat and changes in blood pressure are two indicators of drug interactions. But many additional side effects can indicate a potentially dangerous or unhealthy interaction is taking place.

For example, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration notes that increased dryness or irritation of skin when taking more than one topical acne drug at the same time indicates an unhealthy interaction is taking place.

Herbal and prescription medication interactions can be dangerous. Individuals are urged to contact their physicians before combining medications and to bring up their existing medication regimen whenever they are issued a new prescription. (MC) 

Better-for-You Meals: Breakfast to Dinner

Whether you’re encouraging loved ones to start a new wellness kick or looking to add new ideas to an already-nutritious menu, families at any stage of a journey toward better health can use newfound favorites to bring fresh flavors to the table.

These dishes from Milk Means More provide an all-day assortment of deliciousness from breakfast to lunch and dinner so you can bring everyone together for tasty, nutritious meals no matter the occasion. Dairy foods, like the low-fat or fat-free milk, yogurt and cheese found in these recipes, are fundamental to good nutrition.

Constructing a better-for-you menu calls for a balanced diet with a variety of foods to get essential nutrients. This balance is important for maintaining healthy gut and immune function while optimizing overall wellness.

Find additional better-for-you recipe inspiration at MilkMeansMore.org. (Family Features)

Mini Greek Yogurt Pancakes with Cinnamon-Maple Topping

Total time 25 minutes

Servings 6

Topping

1 3/4 cups plain Greek yogurt (fat free, 2% or 5%)

1/3 cup maple syrup

1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Pancakes

1 cup all-purpose flour

2 tablespoons sugar

1 teaspoon baking powder

1/4 teaspoon baking soda

1/8 teaspoon salt

1 egg, lightly beaten

3/4 cup plain Greek yogurt (fat free, 2% or 5%)

1/2 cup milk (skim, 2% or whole)

3 tablespoons melted butter

1 teaspoon vanilla oil

1 cup fresh blueberries or chopped fresh strawberries

To make topping Stir yogurt, syrup and cinnamon. Cover and refrigerate. To make pancakes In mixing bowl,

stir flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda and salt. In separate bowl, whisk egg, yogurt, milk, butter and vanilla. Add yogurt mixture to flour mixture. Stir just until combined (batter should be slightly lumpy).

Scrape batter into large plastic food storage bag. Oil nonstick griddle or large nonstick skillet. Heat over medium heat. Cut off about 1/2 inch from corner of plastic bag. Squeeze batter, about 1 tablespoon at a time, onto hot griddle. Cook 1-2 minutes per side, or until pancakes are golden brown, turning to second sides when bubbles form on surface of pancakes and edges are slightly dry.

Serve warm pancakes topped with cinnamon-maple yogurt and sprinkled with berries.

Chicken, Mango and Blue Cheese Pitas

Total time 25 minutes

Servings 6

Sauce

1 cup low-fat plain yogurt

1 tablespoon honey

1 tablespoon orange juice or lime juice

Filling

1 tablespoon vegetable oil

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast halves, cut into bite-size pieces

1 tablespoon Cajun or Creole seasoning

1 large fresh mango, seeded, peeled and chopped

3 large whole-wheat pita rounds (or 6 small), halved

1 1/2 cups spring greens

3/4 cup crumbled blue cheese (3 ounces)

To make sauce In small bowl, stir yogurt, honey and juice. Cover and refrigerate.

To make filling In large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat, heat oil. Cook and stir chicken with seasoning in hot oil 4-6 minutes, or until chicken is no longer pink in center. Remove from heat. Stir in mango.

Fill pita pockets with greens, chicken mixture and blue cheese. Spoon yogurt sauce on top.

Feta Roasted Salmon and Tomatoes

Prep time 15 minutes

Cook time 15 minutes

Servings 4

Nonstick cooking spray

3 cups halved cherry tomatoes

2 teaspoons olive oil

1 teaspoon minced garlic

1/2 teaspoon dried oregano or dried dill weed

1/4 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon coarsely ground black pepper, divided

1 1/2 pounds salmon or halibut fillets, cut into 4 serving-size pieces

1 cup (4 ounces) crumbled feta cheese

Preheat oven to 425 F. Line 18-by13-by-1-inch (half sheet) baking pan with foil. Lightly spray foil with nonstick cooking spray. Set aside. In medium bowl, toss tomatoes, olive oil, garlic, oregano, salt and 1/4 teaspoon pepper.

Place fish pieces, skin side down, on one side of prepared pan. Sprinkle with remaining pepper. Lightly press feta cheese on top of fish. Pour tomato mixture on other side of prepared pan. Bake, uncovered, 12-15 minutes, or until fish flakes easily with fork. Place salmon on serving plates. Spoon tomato mixture over top. 

How to Find the Right Real Estate Agent

Working with a real estate agent can give both buyers and sellers an edge in what continues to be a challenging real estate market. Agents, brokers and Realtors® are professionals who have distinct expertise and knowledge of the process of buying and selling homes. That expertise is evidenced by how many people rely on real estate professionals each year.

A 2022 Zillow Group Consumer Housing Trends report found 88% of homeowners choose to list their homes with a real estate agent when it comes time to sell.

Individuals understand that it can be in their best interests to work with real estate professionals, but they may not know where to look as they seek to work with one. Here are some tips for finding the right match in a real estate professional.

Know the difference in real estate professionals Real estate agents are required by the state in which they operate to pass a real estate license exam. Real estate brokers take it a step further and undergo additional training, which could bring additional experience to the table. Realtors® are members of the National Association of Realtors® and beholden to its strict code of ethics. These individuals also

may have undergone additional training that qualifies them to work with certain types of clients, such as seniors.

Seek referrals Friends or family members, or even others in the community, can put people in touch with real estate professionals. When asking for referrals, individuals can inquire about certain professionals and how they handled buying and/or selling a home.

Work with the right type of agent Generally speaking, real estate agents either work with buyers or sellers in the transaction. Many will do both, but some specialize in buying or selling. Find a professional who either does both or specializes in your position.

Research an agent’s online presence Use the internet to see if the agent has a website, a particular philosophy or a specialty. This also may be a place to check online reviews. Don’t be dissuaded by one or two poor reviews. However, if there are many, it may be best to look elsewhere.

Meet and interview potential agents Individuals should speak with a couple of real estate professionals to see what they offer. This is a good way to determine if there is a connection there, and

whether the agent will get the results needed. A well-prepared agent will come with data, including “comps” of properties in the area. Professionals typically have information about the current market trends and a portfolio of the homes they have brokered recently.

Go with gut instincts If it’s between two people of equal qualification, select the person with whom you have a stronger rapport. This person will be guiding you through a sizable financial transaction, so comfort level is important.

Finding the right real estate professional can take some time. But the right professional will guide clients through the often complex and occasionally frustrating process of buying or selling property. (MC) 

‘Dynasty’ Chronicles the ‘Roller Coaster’ Ride of the Patriots

By Richard Roeper Signal Contributing Writer

‘The Dynasty: The New England Patriots’

 1/2 (out of four)

A 10-episode series premiering two episodes each Friday through March 15 on Apple TV+.

The most storied NFL team of the 21st century gets the “Last Dance” treatment in the 10-part Apple TV+ sports documentary “The Dynasty: The New England Patriots,” and when you take a beat to think about it, there are a number of broad similarities between the Pats and the 1990s Chicago Bulls:

Sunday-Thursday, Februar y

• Both teams won six world championships, clustered in groups of three (or three out of four).

• Each team featured the GOAT of their respective sports in Michael Jordan and Tom Brady.

• Both Jordan and Brady were often at odds with management, i.e., Jordan’s clashes with Bulls GM Jerry

Krause and Brady’s power struggles with Patriots head coach Bill Belichick.

• With the Patriots as well as the Bulls, you’re left with the feeling that the core group perhaps could have squeezed in one more championship — but there were too many egos in the locker room and on the management side for that to happen.

Adapting the critically acclaimed, bestselling book of the same name by Jeff Benedict, the Emmy-winning director Matthew Hamachek (HBO’s “Tiger”) and the Brian Grazer/Ron Howard-led Imagine Documentaries (“The Super Models”) have crafted a fascinating and revealing work of video journalism that chronicles the roller coaster journey of the Patriots franchise from the late 1990s through the present day. The filmmakers skillfully weave in sit-down interviews with more than 60 participants, including Patriots owner Robert Kraft, Belichick, Brady, Drew Bledsoe, Ty Law and a host of other former players, as well as NFL commissioner Roger Goodell, various Brady family members and stellar Boston-based journalists such as Jackie MacMullan and Michael Holley.

We’re treated to a wealth of game highlights, locker-room footage and archival news footage as the series goes in-depth on every Super Bowl victory and a number of crushing onfield setbacks. Most admirable of all, “The Dynasty” shines an unforgiving spotlight on the Spygate and Deflategate scandals — and devotes an entire episode to the horrific and tragic case of Aaron Hernandez, the enormously talented but deeply troubled and volatile star tight end who was convicted of killing Odin Lloyd in 2015 and killed himself in prison two years later.

Speaking of the 2010 draft in which New England selected Hernandez, the legendary Ernie Adams, former director of football research for the Patriots, says: “In the fourth round, we found this guy that we liked. There were some off-the-field issues. … Looking in hindsight, of course, we did not understand the full dimension of what the problem was …”

Your heart breaks for former Pats receiver Deion Branch when Branch laments that he wishes he could have recognized the depths of Hernandez’s troubles: “I have some moments

where I’m just like … ‘You should have seen that. Deion, you should have seen that. …”

On a much lighter side, we’re reminded that the Patriots selected Rob Gronkowski in that same draft — and when Gronk and his crew whooped it up in front of the cameras, he got a phone call from the organization, telling him in essence to sit down. “I’m sitting there like, ‘Wow, I’m already in trouble,’” recalls Gronkowski. “It’s been five minutes since I’ve been on the Patriots and I’m already in trouble.’”

While Gronk, Brady, Kraft, Bledsoe, Randy Moss and a number of other key figures in the Patriots’ story are refreshingly candid in offering recollections and insights, Belichick is his usual Thief of Joy self, only reluctantly praising Brady and mumbling his typical aphorisms about how it takes a total team effort to win championships. If you’re looking for Belichick to speak openly about Hernandez or Spygate or Deflategate or even why he benched star cornerback Malcolm Butler in Super Bowl LII against the Eagles, have you seen Bill Belichick all these years? That was never going to happen.

Not that there aren’t a myriad of triumphant sequences in “The Dynasty.” Even for those of us who aren’t Patriots fans and even might have been slightly irritated by their dominance, one can’t help but enjoy Butler’s exuberance as he recalls his interception in Super Bowl XLIX, which according to the analytics is the single most significant play in postseason history. Moss, Tedy Bruschi, Julian Edelman, Lawyer Milloy and a host of other players are all too happy to share their treasured memories as well.

Even Tom’s sister Nancy Brady delivers some interesting tidbits about her brother’s experiences, including his decision to part ways with the Patriots and take his talents to Tampa Bay, where he won one last Super Bowl — which I’m sure delighted Bill Belichick to no end. 

Copyright

SENIOR LIVING

Long-Term Care Myths That Could Impact Your Retirement

When it comes to planning their retirement, most people will rely upon their savings, 401(k)s and other forms of income to provide the security they will need for that phase of life. However, many don’t consider a crucial need for their later years: long-term care insurance.

In fact, a recent Forbes study revealed only about one-quarter of adults nearing retirement have seriously considered getting long-term care insurance or a savings account dedicated to long-term care expenses.

Further, many consumers mistakenly think their health insurance or Medicaid will cover various aspects of long-term care services when that might not be the case.

So why are Americans neglecting this aspect of financial planning? For many, common misconceptions are preventing them from being prepared. Here are six myths about long-term care and the truth you might not know from Bankers Life, a national life and health insurance brand.

Myth #1 I won’t need long-term care.

Reality Needing help with such daily activities as eating, bathing, dressing, toileting and continence, among others, may seem like an unlikely scenario. However, about 70% of people aged 65 and older will need some type of long-term care during their lifetime, according to the Department of Health and Human Services.

Myth #2 My family will take care of me.

Reality Physical, financial and geographical limitations prevent many people from caring for their aging relatives, even if they intended to. That’s why it’s important to be prepared to pay for the long-term care you may need some day.

Myth #3 Medicare will cover my long-term care.

Reality Medicare is designed to cover acute care, or the care you need when you’re sick and will eventually

recover from an illness. It doesn’t cover ongoing Activities of Daily Living services when those are the only care you need.

Long-term care insurance is designed to help cover ongoing custodial care services, which includes assistance with dressing, bathing, eating or other Activities of Daily Living.

Myth #4 I’ll use my Social Security benefits to pay for long-term care.

Reality Long-term care is expensive, with homemaker services costing $163 per day on average and a semi-private room in a nursing home costing $260 per day on average, according to SeniorLiving.org. Even the maximum monthly Social Security benefit of $3,6275 won’t cover these amounts.

Myth #5 Nursing homes are the only option.

Reality When you hear “long-term care,” you may immediately think “nursing home,” but today there are a wide variety of services available that you may receive at a facility, in the community or in the comfort of your own home.

Owning long-term care insurance can help ensure you receive the care you need on your terms—where and how you want it.

Myth #6 I will get long-term care insurance later, when I need it.

Reality Qualifying for long-term care insurance coverage after you’re diagnosed with an illness is difficult. Applying for long-term care insurance at a younger age helps you qualify for coverage and lock in lower premiums. For this reason, many people purchase long-term care insurance in their 50s when they’re still in good health.

For more information on long-term care insurance, reach out to a Bankers Life agent, or visit bankerslife.com. By incorporating long-term care insurance into your retirement plans, you can help prepare yourself for a comfortable future, come what may. (StatePoint) 

QI remember when singer Usher used to be on the soap opera “The Bold and the Beautiful.” Has he done any acting since?

— S.L.

ABorn Usher Raymond IV, superstar Usher was born in Dallas and sang in the church choir that was directed by his mother. The family later moved to Atlanta and then Los Angeles, where Usher released his first album in 1994 at the age of 16 and also hit it big with his second album, “My Way,” in 1997. He flexed his talents even more by branching out into acting — first in the sitcom “The Parent ‘Hood” on The WB network, then in recurring roles on “The Bold and the Beautiful” and “Moesha.”

BOOK REVIEW

More recently, he’s just played himself in several TV shows like “Dave” and The Lonely Island movie “Popstar.” However, being selected to headline the Super Bowl halftime show is a high honor for any recording artist, so I doubt he has any regrets about not having a hit acting career. He also just released his ninth album, “Coming Home,” so perhaps he’ll be adding his ninth Grammy to his mantle during the next award season.

BookTrib’s Bites

Three Captivating Reads

South of Sepharad

By Eric Z. Weintraub

Fleeing death by the Spanish Inquisition, a Jewish doctor makes an impossible choice between home and faith, then struggles to lead his family on a journey for a new life.

In 1492, Queen Isabella and King Ferdinand conquer Granada and sign a decree ordering Jews convert to Catholicism or depart Spain in three months’ time under penalty of death.

The doctor, Vidal ha-Rofeh, insists they flee. Unwillingly leaving behind their oldest daughter with her Catholic husband, Vidal’s family joins a caravan of 200 Jews journeying to start their lives anew. On the caravan, Vidal struggles to balance his physician duties with mending strained relationships with his family. At the same time, his daughter back home finds herself exposed to the Spanish Inquisition living as a converso in a Christian empire. My Father’s Story: The Murder of the Best Man I’ve Ever Known

By Eric Johnson

This captivating story unfolds when the author delves into the life and tragic death of his father,

Q When is “Young Sheldon” coming back with new episodes? Is it true that this will be the final season?

—A.M.

ABy the time you’re reading this, you might have noticed that “Young Sheldon” returned to CBS with all new episodes on Feb. 15. Delayed by the writers’ and actors’ strikes, the seventh and final season will only consist of 14 episodes, with its hour-long series finale airing on May 16. It was inevitable that the show would end, since the title character was getting closer to the age of his future self in “The Big Bang Theory,” the hit sitcom that preceded “Young Sheldon.”

However, there is a bit of good news on the horizon. According to The Hollywood Reporter, CBS is “reteaming with exec producers Chuck Lorre, Steve Holland and Steve Molaro to develop a spinoff of their prequel series ‘Young Sheldon.’” Although nothing official has been announced, word is that the new show will focus on Sheldon’s brother, Georgie (Montana Jordan), and his fiancee, Mandy (Emily Osment). It will

who was brutally murdered by his ex-girlfriend in his own home, taking not only his life but also that of his beloved dog. Readers will hear firsthand how profoundly an act of violence can change lives forever.

The author takes readers on a journey toward truth and justice with surreal court hearings, fit for a horror movie, that put his dad’s ex-girlfriend’s mental health at the epicenter of her defense. Readers will be enthralled by each distressing twist and turn. Embark on this inside look into loss, heartache, and a brutal quest for the truth. “So much emotion and many heart-wrenching plot twists that you don’t see coming,” says one reviewer.

Red Deuce

By Tom Roehlk

One fiery redhead in the family can be a caution. When the redhead comes in a pair, it means double trouble for anyone who bets against them.

Mandy Doucette is a by-the-book corporate lawyer; her twin sister, Reggie, is an FBI pathologist. Both are happy in their respective comfort zones. But things are about to change. First, Mandy spots

debut as early as the 2024-25 television season. Hopefully, Iain Armitage will pop in occasionally as Sheldon.

QIs it true that Jon Bon Jovi lost his voice? Will he still be able to sing?

—I.S.

ASinger Jon Bon Jovi is recovering from surgery to mend a vocal cord injury, but his career is far from over. According to Entertainment Weekly, the lead singer of the popular rock band Bon Jovi had undergone surgery 19 months ago with a specialist in Philadelphia who used a plastic implant to fix an atrophied vocal cord.

While promoting “Thank You, Goodnight: The Bon Jovi Story,” an upcoming docuseries on Hulu about him and his bandmates, Bon Jovi said that their new record has been completed and that he recently performed live for the first time since his surgery. He’s also about to become Millie Bobby Brown’s (“Stranger Things”) father-in-law, as his son, Jake, proposed to the actress last year. 

©2023 King Features Synd., Inc.

a mystery behind why a major corporation made a whistleblower’s complaint disappear — along with the whistleblower.

Soon Mandy’s up to her eyeballs in trouble. She’s risking her life to stop moles from stealing American defense technology and trying to figure out who is trying to frame, then kill, her. At the same time, Reggie is investigating corpses dug up in cornfields and forests. Could they be the key to what Mandy is investigating? Suddenly, Reggie’s life is also at risk.

BookTrib.com was created as a news source for people who love books, want to find out what’s happening in the book world and love learning about great authors of whom they may not have heard. It is a haven for anyone searching for his or her next read or simply addicted to all things book-related.

BookBites is presented by BookTrib.com. 

Musician Usher Photo Credit Depositphotos

Bonding

Your dog may be one of your best friends, but that bond doesn’t happen overnight. Investing in quality one-onone time can have a big impact on the bond you build with your four-legged companion.

One of the best ways to show dogs love is by keeping them healthy and spending quality time with them. Dedicating time every day to your dog’s well-being can help establish a connection, give you opportunities to express affection and foster shared bonding moments.

Training

Teaching your dog obedience isn’t just about eliminating undesirable behaviors. Training allows you to clearly communicate your expectations to your dog. It also builds your dog’s confidence through positive feedback received after mastering a command or new trick. Most dogs thrive on meeting their owners’ expectations, so consistent

Your Four-Legged Friend

commands they can recognize and follow help deepen your connection.

Another way to build trust through behavior training is establishing regular routines. Giving your dog a clear set of expectations helps build mutual trust. You can create routines around the key

milestones of each day, such as mealtimes, walks and bedtime.

Grooming

Some pets love bathtime; others avoid it at all costs. Either way, you can make the experience more rewarding for you and your pet if you use it as an opportunity to spend some quality time together and shower your pet with extra affection.

Many pets are especially sensitive to grooming near their eyes, but keeping the eyes clean and free of dirt and buildup may help reduce the risk of infection, reduce tear stains and support your dog’s eye health. Consider options like Project Watson eye wash for dogs, which comes in an easy-to-use bottle with a tip that allows for a steady stream of solution to use alone or by soaking a clean washcloth. Made with naturally inspired, high-quality ingredients, the eye wash is designed to match the See BONDING, page 17

Seven Signs That Indicate Your Pet Could Be in Pain

Pets and even wild animals can convey sentiments in various ways. It’s human nature to want to assume that the passing glances of a puppy are looks of deep love — and they very well may be.

Animals may convey various emotions through their behavior, but when it comes to being in pain, they may not show it readily.

In the wild, animals hide pain as a survival instinct. Pain can give the perception that an animal is weaker and therefore an easier target for predators.

Since pets can conceal pain well, pet owners should familiarize themselves with reading the subtle indicators that suggest something is amiss. PetMD, Sears Veterinary Hospital and VetsNow note the following are seven signs pets could be in pain.

1. Grumpy Temperament

Does your typically amiable pet suddenly want nothing to do with you? Is he or she more aggressive or

shying away from your touch? Pain can turn a happy-go-lucky pet into one that is much more moody and resistant to human interaction.

2. Excessive Behaviors

A pet in pain may lick or scratch a specific area. Cats may howl or meow frequently.

3. Accidents

Pets who are in pain could forget some of their hovertraining. Cats may urinate outside of the litter box, while dogs may have accidents indoors.

4. Reduced Appetite.

Being in pain or ill may reduce the desire to eat or drink in some pets. Pets who have dental issues may be even more reluctant to eat because chewing triggers the pain.

5. Difficulties Lying Down or Standing Up

Pain that originates from injuries or arthritis can make it challenging for pets to sit, stand or lie down easily. Limping or having trouble walking are some additional indicators of injury or arthritis.

6. Changes in Body Posture

Most pet owners have a good idea of what their animals look like when they are relaxed and in good health. A pet who is hunched or especially rigid, or one hanging his or her head, could be masking pain.

7. Agitation or Restlessness

Some pets cannot get settled when they’re in pain. They may pace the house or not lie down long enough to get adequate rest.

Pet owners who spend enough time with their pets should be able to recognize a few signs that something is amiss and potentially indicative of an animal in pain. When such indicators present, schedule a visit with a veterinarian promptly to get to the root of the problem. (MC) 

What do pets see in color?

The popular notion that pets see in black and white, notably dogs, is false. People once thought that their furry companions couldn’t see the color spectrum. However, the American Kennel Club reports that new research and conclusions about canine anatomy point to dogs having color vision, after all — it’s just a bit more muted than their human friends.

According to Dr. Jerry Klein, AKC’s chief veterinary officer, dogs have more rods than cones in their eyes, which improves low-light vision. Cones are responsible for controlling color perception. Due to these anatomical differences, it is believed dogs’ vision mimics that of a person with red/green color blindness.

Color is perceptible for dogs, but not in the spectrum enjoyed by humans with healthy vision. Cats

also can see in color, but similarly not with the same level of detail as people. Furthermore, their vision is much more attuned to up-close sight than to focusing on objects that are far away.

According to Birdfact, an online resource about birds, birds have arguably the best eyesight and ability to detect color of any member of the animal kingdom. Birds can see more color than humans because they have a fourth type of light-receiving cone in their retinas. So, a pet bird will be in tune with vibrantly colored items in and around his environment.

Arizona State University’s Ask a Biologist offers a chart that illustrates colors certain animals can see at askabiologist.asu.edu/ colors-animals-see. People who want to know if their pet rabbit can see color, or what those fish in their home aquariums can see, can consult the chart. (MC) 

“I

– Becky Robelotto, GDA | TLC Puppy Raiser

Compassionate Approach

We understand the physical and emotional toll a dog bite can take. Our compassionate team is dedicated to providing the support and guidance you need during this challenging time.

Legal Consultation

Receive a thorough review of your case during a free initial consultation. We’ll assess the details, answer your questions, and outline the potential paths to justice.

“We

Fish That Can Share a Tank

Parents with more than one child know that sometimes separation is the best solution when kids aren’t getting along. Though that same approach can be applied to many pets, it’s likely not an option for people with fish tanks. Unless pet owners have a spare, clean and functioning fish tank on hand for those moments when fish aren’t playing well together, they’ll have to find species that can safely share the same tank.

The pet experts at PetSmart note that fish can become territorial, so there’s no guarantee that typically neighborly species will get along. However, the following are some species that should be able to share the same tank without issue. African cichlids PetSmart describes these active fish in a somewhat paradoxical way, noting their territorial and aggressive tendencies while also noting they do better when crowded together. African cichlids should be

MONDAY

monitored closely after introducing them to a tank and removed if they become too aggressive. When choosing a tank, pick one that’s at least four feet long.

South and Central American cichlids PetSmart notes larger varieties of these cichlids can be very aggressive and, unlike their African counterparts, do not do well in overcrowded tanks. When picking South and Central American cichlids, ask the pet store professional to select fish of similar sizes, diet and temperament. The tank for these fish should be able to accommodate their size as an adult.

Community fish As their name suggests, community fish are compatible when placed in a tank with other non-aggressive species. PetSmart notes that schooling species do best in quantities of five or more. Examples of community fish include rasboras, danios and cory cats. (MC) 

SUNDAY -

8AM - 3PM

California’s Pack Leader in Dog Bite Cases

pH of a dog’s eye and help remove dried mucous, foreign materials, pollen and other irritants.

Between grooming sessions, you can also clean your dog’s eyes with eyelid wipes. The wipes, which are part of the Project Watson line of dog care products developed by the experts at Bausch + Lomb and evaluated by veterinarians, are formulated with micellar technology that cleanses and hydrates around the eyes while helping remove excess buildup associated with irritated, dry eyes. The gentle formula is paraben free, pH-balanced and fragrance free, made to mimic the ingredients found in natural tears and provide a soothing, gentle cleaning.

Exercise

Your dog needs daily exercise, just like you. Make your workouts do double duty by taking your dog along for a walk or jog. Just be sure to match your workout level to your

pet’s abilities; just like humans, dogs need to build up endurance before tackling an extended route. Also be mindful of the terrain and ensure your pet’s paws are safe from poten tial risks like sharp or abrasive surfac es and extreme heat or cold.

Down Time

While dogs need plenty of practi cal attention and structure, some of the best bonding comes from letting loose and simply enjoying interacting with your pooch. That might mean wrestling with a favorite toy, throwing a ball or just snuggling on the couch with plenty of petting and scratches.

For more suggestions to keep your four-legged friend happy and healthy, speak with your veterinarian or visit tryprojectwatson.com.(Family Fea tures) 

How to Get Your House Cats Some Exercise

Cats make beloved pets for any number of reasons. Many pet owners love their cats for their quirky personalities, while others like the companionship of an animal that does not require the same level of hands-on attention as a dog.

In a testament to the love pet owners have for their cats, many would do anything to keep them safe, happy and healthy. Cat health can be easy to take for granted, as felines are generally quiet and many prefer to spend ample time alone. However, pet owners must take an active role in the health of their cats, and that includes ensuring the felines get enough exercise.

The United Kingdom-based People’s Dispensary for Sick Animals notes that cats that stay fit and remain active are less likely to become obese and develop diabetes and arthritis.

Cat owners know that the very quirks that make cats such lovable pets also can make it hard to get them

to do things they won’t necessarily want to do. But the following are some ways to ensure cats get enough exercise to stay fit and healthy.

• Determine which toys cats like best. Some pre-exercise observation can help lay a strong foundation for feline fitness sessions. The PDSA advises cat owners to identify which toys cats seem to like best and then use those toys during exercise sessions to entice

participation. Use one or two toys each session and swap them every few days so cats do not grow bored with their fitness routines.

• Incentivize physical activity.

into a workout.

WebMD recommends letting cats sink their teeth and claws into toys during a workout. This type of engagement satisfies cats and will encourage them to embrace exercise sessions. Keep some replacements at the ready in case cats are especially enthusiastic.

• Employ a laser pointer.

Much like dogs respond to treats during behavior training, cats are more likely to engage in exercise when sessions end with a reward. PetMD notes some post-exercise praise and a few healthy treats can encourage cats to participate willingly in exercise sessions.

• Don’t overdo it.

Cats are not humans, so felines’ fitness sessions don’t need to mirror their owners’ lengthy workouts. Play sessions intended to get cats to exercise can last between 10 and 15 minutes each. PetMD recommends limiting sessions to two or three per day for older cats, while as many as 10 sessions per day can be effective for younger cats.

• Let cats sink their teeth and claws

Cat owners are undoubtedly aware and likely amused by how much cats are drawn to laser pointers. Make the most of that inability to resist laser light by using a laser pointer during a cat’s workout routine. Cats will chase the pointer all over the room, all the while getting some beneficial exercise.

Cats can benefit from routine exercise just as much as their owners, and there are several fun and even some amusing ways to encourage felines to enthusiastically engage in physical activity. (MC) 

How to Maintain Your Lawn That is Roamed by Pets

Vibrant, green lawns can draw attention to any landscape. Many homeowners toil for hours each week to ensure their lawns are pristine, or invest in lawn care services to help maintain a yard if they do not have the time to do so themselves.

While many treatments can be applied to lawns to help them thrive, animal waste is not among them. Pet owners who aspire to have beautiful lawns will have to take a few extra steps to ensure lawns can persevere despite the presence of furry companions.

Reseed With a Damage-Resistant Grass

There are many different types of grass, and some are more resilient than others. Tall fescue, Kentucky bluegrass, perennial ryegrass, and Bermuda grass are just some of the grass varieties that can capably handle pet traffic. If replacing the entire lawn is not possible, consider reseeding or addressing the areas that pets frequent.

Strengthen the Root System

It may be tempting to cut the lawn short, particularly if dogs or cats like to nibble on longer blades of grass. But that approach could be doing the lawn a disservice. According to The Home Depot, let-

ting the lawn grow to at least three inches will help keep moisture in the soil and prevent evaporation. That moisture will strengthen the roots, creating a healthier lawn for pets and people.

Create Pet Paths

Various materials can be used in these high-traffic areas to minimize the sights and signs of pet traffic. Mulch or crushed stone can establish these pet highways and look like intended features.

Set Boundaries

Pet urine contains high levels of nitrogen, which

can burn grass and turn it brown. It’s not possible to water down urine or pick up solid waste immediately every time a pet goes outdoors, so designate a pet-friendly spot for potty time. Use fencing or a dog run to separate this area and help mitigate “land mines” all over the lawn. Fencing also can keep pets out of vegetable gardens and away from potentially toxic plants.

Avoid Chemical Lawn Treatments

When pets use the yard and rest on the lawn, you’ll need to eliminate products that can be harmful to them. Choose all-natural fertilizers and weed and pest preventatives.

Look for Alternatives

If maintaining a lawn with pets seems like an uphill battle, consider swapping out your landscape with a variety of materials. Scale back on grass, and incorporate groundcover, hardscape materials like pea gravel, or extend the patio. Artificial turf also is an option, as it won’t brown and wither. Some turf products can even be quickly and thoroughly cleaned with water.

It can take some trial and error for pet parents to protect their lawns from the effects of having furry friends playing in the yard. (MC) 

GARDENING

Lessons We Can Learn From Our Gardening

By Jane Gates Signal Staff Writer

Some of us have made new year resolutions we hope will change our lives. Some have made less formidable promises to ourselves. Others have decided to ignore the calendar as much as possible or just sit back and see what fate will bring.

I suspect my garden is in the third category and has paid as little attention to the human labeling of time as did my dogs to their dinner time after Daylight Savings Time rolled in.

For most other living creatures on this planet, time is not something to measure or categorize. But we humans tend to circumscribe our whole lives by years, months, minutes and sometimes even seconds. I guess it’s a control thing.

And maybe that’s one of the reasons I value my garden so much. It is a wise teacher. It teaches me that time will continue on no matter what I do or what beliefs I cling to — political, religious, economic or anything else. Seeds will sprout, leaf out and flower; fruit will drop seeds and die as newly formed seedlings sprout again.

I will make splendid plans and the weather or the wildlife will ignore them. And I will continue aging no matter how well I eat and exercise until the day I stop altogether.

So I have a choice. I can choose to feel badly about my short, egocentric period on this earth, or I can celebrate what a magnificent gift it is to be here and experience being a unique part of the awesome living tapestry of life. Considering how bleak the first choice is and how much fun the latter one is, why not go for the joyful one?

After all, the truth of the matter is that I can

spend every day learning new things and passing them on.

This makes me feel even more a part of the complex dance of life. I can make someone smile, rescue a worm stranded on the sidewalk, pat a pooch and give a plant a happy home.

These are lessons my garden has shown me in so many ways. I don’t have to be rich, famous or admired to do something that makes a difference. I just need to participate in experiencing and honoring the magical life on this awesome planet!

So, now that I realize I have everything I need to be happy and relevant in the coming new year, I’m gonna arm myself with shovel, fork and trowel, and I’m gonna go out there and do some good.

I can help people plan their gardens to feed their souls while doing my best to help balance our human use of soil, water and air with the harmony needed to care for the planet.

I can plant California natives where they will create homes and food for the local fauna. I can make a special area for amending soil so I can grow fresh healthy food and pretty flowers for cutting without using excessive water.

I can enjoy every day in the gentle air, the soft winter sun, the stimulating seasonal rains, and be thankful for having the daily reminder in my garden of what is truly important about being alive.

And you can do the same.

Okay, now that I’m done with my proselytizing, here are some things we can all do at this time of year to feel fulfilled in the garden:

• Plan to redesign your garden for more fun and productive beauty. Draw it out rough-sketched on paper, computer or formally measured and mapped so you can catch mistakes before they become expensive.

• Soil can be prepped for the spring. Amendments can be added where more organics are needed or soil needs to be aerated.

• Winter is the perfect time to fix or change irrigation systems.

• To keep weed germination down in open areas you will not get around to planting for a while try covering the soil with black plastic. It heats up in the sun and effectively kills many weeds germinating beneath. Just pull it off when you are ready to plant.

• Plant low-water lawns, trees and shrubs during winter months.

• Most of your pruning can be done at this time of year as well.

• Keep hoeing and pulling weeds as they sprout.

• Sprinkle wildflower seeds to bring riotous color to open areas.

• Plant drought-tolerant plants and low ground-covers to save water and defend from wildfires.

There are boundless opportunities to work with your landscape in January. You can use inclement days for shopping and designing. You can also just enjoy wandering through your landscape and watch the shows nature is presenting everywhere you look.

So, I wish you all lots of fun, healing and healthful gardening this year. It’s never too late to start learning all the lessons the garden has to teach. Just step outside, look, listen and learn!

For more information about gardening in the Santa Clarita Valley, visit Jane Gates on YouTube at https:// youtube.com/user/Janieg8s. 

Ways to Protect Your Automotive Investment

Between inventory issues and climbing interest rates, buying a vehicle can be quite an ordeal, making it an investment worth protecting.

Today’s vehicles require less maintenance than ever before. You can go longer between oil changes and many tires are rated for longer travel. However, keeping up with regular maintenance remains part of your vehicle’s upkeep.

Whether you’ve purchased a new vehicle or you’re aiming to keep a car or truck you already own in good working condition, these tips can help you maintain its peak performance and appearance.

Car Wash At least once a month, make a point of washing your car to remove built up grime. Not only is the dirt unsightly, but the mess can also damage your paint job and even the frame. This is especially true during the winter months when road salt splatters your vehicle’s undercarriage. Once the temperatures climb back above freezing, be sure to wash away the salt.

Covered Parking When possible, use a garage or other form of covered parking. You’ll protect your paint job from harsh UV rays, and you’ll also limit exposure to bird droppings and other potentially corrosive or damaging elements in the environment, like dust and pollen.

Windshield Wipers Visibility is one of the most important aspects of safety when you’re driving, and windshield wiper blades play an essential role. Squeaking, streaking and failing to clear precipitation are all signs your blades need to be replaced. Check wipers regularly and plan on replacing them at least every 6-12 months.

Battery You may not think much about your battery as long as your engine is turning over and your vehicle is running smoothly. However, even a car in good condition can have battery damage. At least once a year, check for signs of battery acid. If you detect the white powdery substance around your battery terminals, disconnect the cables (negative first) and apply a mixture of baking soda and water with a wire brush. Rinse with water and dry before replacing the cables.

Air Filter

The air filter doesn’t just affect the air quality in the cabin of your vehicle. A dirty filter can also cause engine strain because it hinders proper air flow. Over time, you may even notice a decline in gas mileage and acceleration performance. Many factors affect how often you need to replace your filter, but a quick visual inspection should give you a clear idea. Your owner’s manual will help you determine how to access the filter; it’s easier than people often assume.

Find more practical tips for auto care at eLivingtoday.com. (Family Features)  SHOWER

CROSSWORD TIME PUZZLES

SOLUTIONS

Opinion

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

ETHICALLY SPEAKING

Gouged at the Pharmacy

As someone who struggles with chronic migraines that must be managed with prescription medications, I was extremely disappointed that Congress failed to pass legislation that would reform pharmacy benefit managers, or PBMs, and the unfair practices they use that threaten access and lead to higher out-of-pocket costs for patients like me.

It’s bad enough that these insurer-owned groups use policies like pharmacy steering and prior authorization to control access to vital prescription medications, but PBMs will even go as far as to withhold the valuable savings and discounts they secure from drug manufacturers to inflate their profit margins. They could be passing those savings down to patients to help us reduce our out-of-pocket expenses, but PBMs only care about their bottom line.

This is an election year and getting gouged at the pharmacy is something that happens to tens of millions of patients nationwide, making this a critical issue for voters. Our elected officials in Congress should remember who they work for and take real action to rein and reform the harmful PBM practices that threaten vulnerable patients.

I for one hope Sen. Alex Padilla will help lead on this issue and work with his colleagues to help pass the DRUG Act — a bipartisan PBM reform bill — as part of the larger budget package Congress is working on for March. Patients deserve some relief at the pharmacy checkout line, and PBMs need to be held accountable for their actions.

Antara Gupta Canyon Country

From Hawks to Chickens

The failure of House Republicans to approve military and financial support for Ukraine puts their democracy at great risk. But that is not the democracy that is at most risk. The greater threat is to our own constitutional republic.

For weeks the MAGA Republicans have been in heated furor over the migrant invasion at our southern border. Then a bipartisan group of senators negotiated a stopgap measure to shore up the border control, tighten the amnesty application process, and limit the time before final determination of status. Any asylum applicant who is rejected will be immediately returned to their home country. This sounds like much-needed legislative progress.

Then the Orange One sensed the loss of an important campaign issue. House Republicans immediately declared the bill “dead on arrival.” So, the crisis at the border was not that important after all? What about the thousands who are dying by fentanyl poisoning? Wasn’t there this threat from terrorists passing unchecked into the U.S.? Sounds ironic to me that the immigration hawks are turning into chickens.

Thomas Oatway Valencia

We Need the Badge of Courage

By David Hegg

Long before Dorothy and the Cowardly Lion walked the yellow brick road, society understood the absolute necessity of courage. This virtue speaks to the willingness to stand firm against opposition and even advance in the name of all that is good and right. Courage is that strength of character that fights compromise while never underestimating the necessity of compassion. Courage is not the absence of fear but rather the overwhelming sense of right that channels fear into positive action toward the necessary goal. And we must realize that, ultimately, courage is the fruit of a radical commitment to all that is right and good, and especially to truth.

them is humanity’s preference to love personal, short-term well-being above long-term success when such long-term thinking will demand immediate pain.

Simply put, we too often live for today hoping that tomorrow will somehow turn out right. We are shortsighted and have taught ourselves to believe we can choose the easy path today and find it somehow leads to a better tomorrow. The problem is we’re wrong. Even more, most likely the reason we need to take courageous, even painful action today is because we took the easy path yesterday.

Right now, in our world, country and village, there is a slowly creeping belief that truth — the very idea of absolute truth — is being eroded to the place where we are at a loss to make sense of it all. Something must be done. Someone must stand up and say, “The emperor has no clothes!”

And yet, even the most courageous of us can weaken in the face of the consequences of courageous action. Often, we believe that courageous action, taken in defense of the truth, may so damage relationships that the best plan is to “go along to get along.” But all too often, failure to act courageously exacerbates the underlying problem and takes us down a path where good options become fewer and fewer. Who will stand up and be the one in the window in the old movie “Network” to shout to the world that we’re mad and we refuse to take it anymore?

We see this in so many areas of life. The failure to take courageous action politically can allow a state or nation to meander so much deeper into chaos and debt that there no longer appear to be workable solutions. A few years ago, in speaking with a congressman, I heard him say, “We don't have four-year problems or even eight-year problems. We have 10- or 15-year problems, and until someone is willing to tell the people the truth and raise a righteous political ruckus, we’ll be watching our democratic experiment fall over the cliff of selfishness, greed and criminality."

So, if courageous action at the right time is so important, why do we often decide to deny, postpone, or conveniently forget to deal with those challenges that we all know demand our immediate, courageous attention? There are many answers to that question, but chief among

The real problem is we’ve become a soft people, a society addicted to comfort and convenience. Even the recent inflationary trough that has siphoned off more and more of our savings hasn’t really made us mad enough or tough enough to throw the bums out who have been padding their nest eggs while ours are being spent on necessities.

We’re beginning to recognize the consequences of being a society addicted to the easy, convenient, selfish lifestyle we’ve enjoyed. We’re awakening to the fact that, as a nation, while we were enjoying the good life, someone snuck in and stole our moral compass. Now that the light of reality has been turned on, we’re looking around and seeing a nation we don’t recognize.

It is increasingly hard to find someone who knows the value of values, the protection of morality, or the benefit of charting a life course guided by integrity, generosity, service to mankind, and a righteous standing before Almighty God. The saddest reality is this: Without an overriding worldview that undergirds a noble purpose in life, it will be impossible to gain the convictions of right and wrong from which a determined courage can arise.

America’s history is that of courageous individuals determining that the building of a noble, virtuous society was worth the pain of personal sacrifice. We still see that in certain people and places, but not as much as we need. It is time to take stock of the welfare of our society and be courageous in doing the right thing despite the pain it may bring. It is time for courage, so that our children will have some good options when it comes time for them to act.

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