Green Thumb Garden
What to Know About Alcohol Consumption After 50
Patients are asked several routine questions during annual wellness exams. Among those queries are a subsection of questions regarding alcohol consumption. Doctors ask these questions to identify how much alcohol their patients consume and how often they drink. It’s important that patients of all ages answer such questions honestly, and that includes men and women over 50.
Binge drinking may not be a behavior people associate with individuals over 50, but this behavior is on the rise among aging men and women. The National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA) defines binge drinking as a pattern of alcohol consumption that elevates an individual’s blood alcohol concentration (BAC) to 0.08% or higher.
The NIAAA notes that such levels correspond to consuming five or more drinks (male) or four or more drinks (female) in a roughly two-hour period. Data from the National Survey on Drug Use and Health indicates that one in five adults between the ages of 60 and 64 and 12% of individuals age 65 and
Non-Alcoholic Beer Market Triples
Advertisements for non-alcoholic beer may never prove as prevalent as commercials for alcoholic beers, but the growing visibility of such promotions likely comes as no surprise to industry analysts familiar with the growing popularity of alcohol-free beer. According to the Beer Institute, the market for non-alcoholic beer tripled in size in the half-decade preceding 2025. Indeed, a Beer Institute economist indicates that non-alcoholic beer is the fastest growing segment in the beer industry. In addition, a recent report from the Brewers Association indicated a 30% year-over-year increase in non-alcoholic beer sales in 2024, and industry experts estimate the market size for non-alcoholic beer will increase from $20 billion in 2023 to $40 billion in 2033. (MC)
over report current binge drinking.
Binge drinking trends among individuals 60 and over alarm public health officials. The NIAAA notes that older adults are vulnerable to various problems when drinking alcohol, which can lead to bad interactions among people taking medications and increase risk for various health ailments.
Such a reality makes it worth aging adults’ time to learn some of the basics of alcohol consumption after 50.
Alcohol Can Exacerbate Various Medical Conditions
Age is a notable risk factor for various medical conditions. For example, the National Institute on Aging notes that changes in the heart and blood vessels that occur naturally with age may increase a person’s risk of heart disease and related health problems.
The NIAAA notes that adding alcohol to the mix as you age can worsen problems such as high blood pressure and congestive heart failure. Additional conditions that can be exacerbated by heavy drinking include diabetes, liver problems, osteoporosis, and mood disorders.
Alcohol Can Interact with Various Medications
Prescription medications come with a lengthy rundown of warnings and instructions, which is
enough to compel many people to avoid alcohol when taking such medicines.
However, people may not be as careful with overthe-counter medications, even though the NIAAA warns that mixing alcohol with OTC medicines can be dangerous and even deadly. OTC medications such as aspirin, acetaminophen, allergy medicines, and sleeping pills can interact badly with alcohol.
Alcohol Consumption Should be Limited to Two Drinks Or Less
As noted, a significant percentage of adults over 60 qualify as binge drinkers. That may alarm some older adults who do not feel as though they have a problem with alcohol but still meet the qualifications for binge drinking.
Refraining from alcohol is arguably the safest option, but individuals over 50 who still like to enjoy a drink every now and then are urged to keep their consumption to two drinks or less in a day for men and one drink or less in a day for women. It’s important that individuals recognize they cannot save up drinking for one night of the week. So those who abstain six days a week cannot then consume between seven and 14 drinks on the day they drink. Such an approach is unhealthy, unsafe and potentially deadly.
Adults over 50 are urged to learn about the ways alcohol affects aging bodies. More information is available at niaaa.nih.gov. (MC)
Make it a Weekend of St. Patrick’s Day Fun
By Michele E. Buttelman Signal Staff Writer
St. Patrick’s Day falls on Monday, March 17 which means you can make it a three-day weekend celebrating the “wearing o’ the green.”
‘A Couple of Blaguards’
The MAIN, 24266 Main St., Old Town Newhall 91321
Info AttheMAIN.org
Get in the Irish spirit by attending a performance of “A Couple of Blaguards” at The MAIN in Old Town Newhall during St. Paddy’s Day weekend.
“A Couple of Blaguards” is a two-character comedy created by Irish immigrant brothers Frank McCourt and Malachy McCourt. The show combines their experiences growing up in Ireland and their new life in America after they immigrated.
Frank McCourt is also known for the Pulitzer Prize-winning memoir, “Angela’s Ashes.”
This is a rowdy, and sometimes poignant, revue, flavored with Irish tunes.
Performances Fridays March 14 and March 21 at 8 p.m., Saturdays, March 15 and March 22 at 8 p.m. and Sundays March 16 and March 23 at 2 p.m.
Rockin’ Shamrock 5k, 10k, 15k, Half Marathon March 16
West Creek Park, 24247 Village Circle Drive, Valencia 91354
Info bit.ly/3XtjPU2
A portion of the proceeds will benefit the California Community Foundation and Pasadena Humane to help with fire relief efforts.
There is nothing better than corned beef and cabbage that is washed down with green beer!
©ADOBE STOCK
This open course race will be held Sunday, March 16 at 7:30 a.m. Be courteous to other pedestrians, runners and cyclists on the shared path.
The races include: 5K (one loop), 10K (two loops), 15K (three loops) with an aid station at every loop.
Everyone will get a finishers medal as well as a goodie bag. Results posted by the evening of race day. A relaxed, fun and personal racing experience is emphasized.
Race month pricing 5K $25.99, 10K $30.99, 15K $35.99, Half marathon $40.99
Race day registration 5K $30, 10K $35, 15K $40, half marathon $45
Egg Plantation St. Paddy’s Party
24415 Walnut St., Newhall 91321
Info www.eggplantation.com
Enjoy lrish cuisine, Irish dancers and Irish music by Irish Dreams on March 17. The band will play
two sets in the dining from from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Pocock Brewing Co.
Irish Fest 2025, 24907 Avenue Tibbitts, Ste B, Valencia, 91355
Info www.pocockbrewing.com
Join Pocock Brewing Co. for a weekend packed with beer, music and Irish cheer on Saturday, March 15 and Sunday, March 16. Enjoy an expanded outdoor beer garden, exclusive Irish menu and fresh beer releases.
The weekend includes live music.
Saturday, March 15
No Chaser noon-3 p.m.
Band Lexington 3-6 p.m.
Silent Tom Headliners 6:30-10 p.m. Sunday, March 16
Monkey Bump noon-2:30 p.m.
Swing Riots 3-6 p.m.
Decadent Decades Headliners 6:30-9 p.m.)
Don your greenest gear and come celebrate with beer, food and great vibes.
On St. Patrick’s Day Monday, March 17, Pocock will be open special hours, 4-9 p.m.
Maginn’s Irish Pub
24480 Main St. #140, Old Town Newhall 91321
Info www.maginnspub.com
Maginn’s Irish Pub in Old Town Newhall invites Santa Clarita to “come eat, drink and be Irish on our favorite drinkin’ holiday. Join us for festive fun and drink specials all weekend with live Irish music on Monday.”
Maginn’s will be celebrating St. Patrick’s Day all weekend, March 14-17.
‘Back to Basics’ 2025 Outdoor Design Trends
Americans are spending more time in their outdoor spaces — and want to maximize those spaces. Studies show that nearly 90% of homeowners consider their outdoor areas to be important to their health and well-being. Design trends reflect that people are showing more interest in connecting with nature in their own backyard and enjoying the comforts of indoor living while gathering outdoors. This means creating environments that are comfortable, multifunctional and cost-effective.
The outdoor design experts at Belgard, the trusted leader in hardscape solutions from pavers to retaining walls, share exclusive insights into 2025 outdoor design trends to help homeowners plan their dream outdoor spaces.
Privacy and Spaces of Solitude
As property footprints continue to shrink year over year, homeowners are looking for aesthetically pleasing ways to incorporate more privacy from neighbors or their surroundings. Decorative screen panels, pergolas, built-in planters and other structures can add elements of both beauty and functionality that provide a sense of solitude, even in urban environments.
Sound gardens and water features can further enhance a feeling of solitude by adding audible privacy from neighbors or street traffic. For example, even a simple fountain or water bowl can enhance the ambiance and help muffle sound.
Shifting Back to Classic Style
While minimalism remains a popular trend, there’s also been a shift back to a more classic style in indoor and outdoor home design. Mixed materials and warm colors such as beige and sepia are re-emerging, which lend themselves to a more traditional aesthetic.
With modular options from Belgard, a mix of different materials with multiple textures and sizes can create limitless possibilities while keeping with a classic design aesthetic. Because they’re available in many styles, shapes and sizes designed to work together, a variety of paver patterns can be combined seamlessly to achieve any desired overall look.
Convenience
in Design
As outdoor spaces are now a must-have for home-
owners, they must be convenient to access and offer the same amenities as the home’s indoor spaces. Homeowners are looking for their outdoor space to transition easily from the house to the built environment while offering the same modern conveniences of lighting, eating, wi-fi, quality furnishing and accessories.
Health and Wellness
Using outdoor spaces to improve your well-being is a top focus for many people today. Americans are looking to be more balanced and in harmony with their environment, favoring the use of native plants and sustainable materials like permeable pavers, which promote better water drainage and reduce environmental impact.
Gardening is also a popular hobby that helps improve people’s feeling of well-being, so enthusiasts can opt for raised garden beds or planters to pursue their growing goals in their outdoor spaces. For example, Belgard offers options to create built-in planters as part of your overall hardscape design with its Belgard Artforms modular outdoor panel system. You can use the panels, which are sized in modular shapes, to quickly and efficiently construct planters, seating, outdoor kitchens, fire features and more.
By designing outdoor environments that support their health and wellness, individuals can cultivate spaces that provide a retreat in their own backyard
to improve their quality of life.
Value-Added Features
In every metro area, property sizes are smaller than ever. With this shift plus budget considerations, homeowners want to maximize small spaces through modular components that serve multiple purposes, like built-in seat walls, fire features, water features and planters that seamlessly blend into a living space — offering both functionality and visual appeal.
Homeowners can get creative with outdoor spaces with the right hardscape materials. For example, a small space can be transformed into a lush oasis by adding a vertical garden, or underutilized spaces like side or front yards can become cozy sitting areas. Even a small patio can serve as an al fresco dining space, and it doesn’t take a lot to add an outdoor workstation with the right tools and tech. Patio pavers and wall units help define spaces, making them serve more than one purpose for any household.
These strategic investments not only increase the functionality and enjoyment of outdoor areas but also significantly boost curb appeal and the home’s property value, making them a smart choice for homeowners looking to maximize their limited spaces.
To find inspiration for any outdoor space, visit Belgard.com. (BPT)
FAQs About Taxes as the Filing Deadline Nears
Some people look forward to filing their tax returns, while others recoil at the thought of paying what they owe. Regardless of which camp taxpayers are in, come April most people have a question or two related to their returns.
As the deadline to file tax returns draws closer, taxpayers hoping to make the process as smooth as possible can consider these frequently asked questions and answers, courtesy of the Internal Revenue Service.
When is deadline day?
Though taxpayers periodically get an extra day or two to file their returns when April 15 coincides with a holiday or lands on a weekend, there’s no such reprieve in 2025. This year all taxpayers who are not requesting an extension must file their income tax returns by April 15, 2025.
What if my address has changed?
The IRS urges all taxpayers to use their new address when filing their returns. Additional ways taxpayers can update their address with the IRS is
through the filing of Form 8822, Change of Address or Form 8822-B, Change of Address or Responsible Party-Business.
Written statements or oral notifications are additional ways to notify the IRS of an address change, and these methods must include personal information, including the old and new address as well as the taxpayer’s Social Security number, Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) or Employer Identification Number (EIN).
Is there an age limit on claiming my child as a dependent?
A child must meet either the qualifying child test or the qualifying relative test in order to be claimed as a dependent. To meet the qualifying child test,
Using Pre-Tax Spending Accounts to Save on Medical Costs
Consumers have options in addition to a health insurance plan to help pay for qualified medical expenses. Flexible spending accounts and health savings accounts are two vehicles for saving that are similar, but have subtle differences that may make one more appropriate than the other for certain people. Both FSAs and HSAs let a person set aside money before it is taxed to pay for health care costs. Each tend to be offered by employers as part of benefits packages, but sometimes people open HSAs on their own. HSAs enable a person to carry money forward indefinitely, so the funds are there year after year. FSAs usually have a use-orlose policy. When a new year begins, any remaining funds are forfeited. Some FSAs
enable a very small carryover amount. One can invest the money in an HSA, unlike with an FSA. This can make saving up a nest egg for future health expenses easier. A person also may be able to contribute more to an HSA than an FSA. Both have maximum annual amounts determined by the Internal Revenue Service. An HSA is owned by the individual, and everything inside it is that personÕs forever. An FSA is owned by the company that offers it, and all funds can be lost if a person switches firms. These are just a few of the differences between an HSA and an FSA. HSAs seemingly offer more flexibility, but both are excellent ways for consumers to lower their tax obligations and pay for medical expenses. (MC)
your child must be younger than you or your spouse if filing jointly and either younger than 19 years old or be a “student” younger than 24 years old as of the end of the calendar year.
There is no age limit to claim a child as a dependent if a child is “permanently and totally disabled” or meets the qualifying relative test.
In addition to meeting the qualifying child or qualifying relative test, you can claim that person as a dependent only if these three tests are met:
1. Dependent taxpayer test
2. Citizen or resident test, and
3. Joint return test
Taxpayers who remain uncertain about their eligibility to claim a child as a dependent are urged to contact the IRS or a tax preparation professional for clarification before filing their returns.
What do I do if my W-2 is incorrect?
Employers must provide employees with a W-2 by January 31. If the W-2 is incorrect and has not been fixed by the end of February, taxpayers can contact the IRS and request to initiate a Form W-2 complaint. When such a request is initiated, the IRS sends a letter to the employer and requests that they furnish a corrected W-2 within 10 days.
The IRS also sends a letter to the taxpayer with instructions and Form 4852, which can be used to file a return if a corrected W-2 is not provided before the filing deadline.
How can I file for an extension?
There are three ways to request an automatic extension of time to file an income tax return.
1. You can pay all or part of your estimated income tax due and indicate that the payment is for an extension using your bank account; a digital wallet such as Click to Pay, PayPal, and Venmo, cash or a credit or debit card.
2. You can file Form 4868 electronically by accessing IRS e-file using your tax software or by using a tax professional who uses e-file.
3. You can file a paper Form 4868 and enclose payment of your estimate of tax due (optional).
Tax day arrives on April 15. Taxpayers who have lingering questions about their returns are urged to contact the IRS via irs.gov or work with a certified tax professional. (MC)
‘Zoe’ is ‘Richly Layered and a Truly Moving Set Piece
By Richard Roeper Signal Contributing Writer
‘My Dead Friend Zoe’
1/2 (out of four)
Rated R (for language). In theaters.
Hher best friend from the Army, a veteran named Merit played beautifully by Sonequa Martin-Green.
The mystery here is how Zoe died, why Merit feels responsible, and whether Merit will ever be able to process her grief and allow herself to have a life.
Sunday-Thursday, March 9-13, 2025
ollywood loves the Imaginary Friend (IF) trope in all its permutations, and we’ve seen the device put to great use in films such as “Harvey,” “The Shining,” “The Sixth Sense,” “Fight Club” and “A Beautiful Mind.” We’re often led to believe the IF is a real person until a late reveal in the story, but in the case of the poignant PTSD drama “My Dead Friend Zoe,” the title tells us Natalie Morales’ character has died, and we soon learn that Zoe’s death has profoundly affected
In the hands of the director and co-writer Kyle Hausmann-Stokes, an Army veteran who was a paratrooper and convoy commander in Iraq and whose experiences inspired the film, this is an invaluable and authentic reminder that for so many of our military personnel who return home to civilian life after tours of duty, the transition can be as traumatic and challenging as anything they faced while in uniform.
NEWHALL
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Merit and Zoe served as Army mechanics in Afghanistan. As we see in flashback sequences set in 2016, they become best friends despite coming from very different backgrounds, as they bond over Rihanna’s “Umbrella” playing on a cracked iPod, fend off crude advances from their male comrades and share their stories during long nights spent standing watch, where the boredom is permeated with the underlying uneasiness that comes with knowing the enemy is out there and could open fire at any moment. (The BFF chemistry between Martin-Green and Morales is instant and warm.)
Cut to present-day Oregon, where Merit has to attend court-mandated group therapy sessions run by Morgan Freeman’s Dr. Cole. (Freeman served in the Air Force, and all the group therapy participants save for Martin-Green are real-life military veterans. Their testimonials are raw and honest.) Zoe, who is of course visible only to Merit, serves as a wisecracking and brutally frank sidekick to Merit, who clings to Zoe as a support system and a way of avoiding any acknowledgment of the past.
At the urging of Merit’s mother (Gloria Reuben), who is preoccupied with work and has lost patience with her daughter and her troubles, Merit goes to stay with her grandfather, Dale (Ed Harris), at his lake house. Dale is grieving the loss of his wife and is in the early stages of Alzheimer’s. He’s also a Vietnam veteran whose service inspired Merit to join the military, but they’ve grown apart over the years, and their time together gets off to a rocky start.
The one thing they have in common is that neither wants to talk about their military service. Dale comes from the
generation where you came home and put the past behind you and got on with it, while Merit hasn’t yet found a way to say goodbye to Zoe.
With cinematographer Matt Sakatani Roe providing sunbaked visuals of the gorgeous, all-American locale (much of the shooting took place in Molalla, Oregon), director Hausmann-Stokes (who co-wrote the screenplay with A.J. Bermudez) deftly juggles multiple storylines, from the flashback sequences, to the “relationship” between Merit and Zoe in current times, to Merit’s evolving and quite touching connection to her grandfather. There’s also a sweet potential romance between Merit and Utkarsh Ambudkar’s Alex, who runs the assisted living facility where Dale might soon wind up, as his condition worsens.
Freeman lends his legendary gravitas to the role of Dr. Cole, who is sympathetic to Merit’s plight but also unbending in his insistence that she talk about her experiences.
Some of the resolutions of this myriad of conflicts and issues are perhaps a bit too tidy, but this is a richly layered and truly moving set piece, with a smart and insightful screenplay and great performances from the ensemble cast. Martin-Green creates something special and memorable with her portrayal of a veteran who served her country with honor and distinction, and is hoping to find some measure of peace now that she’s home.
Copyright 2024 Chicago Sun-Times
Uncovering Santa Clarita’s Hidden History in Our Parks
By Ken Striplin Santa Clarita City Manager
Our community is rich with history, blending the spirit of the Old West with the history of our great nation –especially in our parks. When Santa Clarita incorporated in 1987, we only had eight parks. Today, we are home to more than three dozen, and this year, we are excited to welcome not just two new parks, but two historical landmarks – the Pioneer Oil Refinery and the iconic William S. Hart Park, both located in Newhall.
The Pioneer Oil Refinery dates back to 1876 when the California Star Oil
Works, now commonly known as Chevron, established the first successful oil refinery in the Western United States. This site played a crucial role
in fueling California’s early oil industry by processing petroleum from nearby Pico Canyon into kerosene for lamp-burning. Several original struc-
tures remain standing, including the pump house, wash and oil tanks and multiple stills, offering a glimpse into the early days of petroleum production. The Pioneer Oil Refinery Park will become a space where the public can appreciate its significance while enjoying the trails connecting to the Newhall Pass Open Space. We anticipate the park to open in spring 2025.
Just a mile west, the nearly 160acre William S. Hart Park celebrates a different piece of history. Once the private ranch of silent film legend William S. Hart, the park is home to his grand Spanish-Colonial Revival mansion, where visitors will soon be able to explore his collection of Western Art, Native American artifacts and
See STRIPLIN, page 16
Savory Favorites to Make St. Patrick’s Day Special
While some St. Patrick’s Day celebrations call for green beer and large gatherings, you may instead opt for a cozy evening at home with comforting foods and close friends. Whether your shamrock spirit leads you out for a local parade or you’re more of a stay-at-home leprechaun, there is one tradition all can agree on: delicious Irish food. If a quieter night cooking at home is up your alley, you’re in luck. You can put a meal worthy of gold on the table with these festive Irish favorites from “Cookin’ Savvy.”
A hearty home-cooked meal loaded with flavor and sure to fill you with cheer, Irish Beef and Beer Pot Pie is made piping hot to warm up any St. Patrick’s Day party. Full of hashbrowns, carrots, peas and beef, it’s a twist on tradition served with puff pastry topping the tasty stew. A cup of your favorite stout beer, of course, will come in handy for deglazing the skillet to ensure you enjoy every bit of beefy flavor.
Perfect for serving as a sweet complement to coffee or tea, or all on its own as a nightcap nibble, Irish Sweet Soda Bread comes together in a snap so you can let it bake while enjoying the main course. Offering an easy way to participate in the festivities, it might just become a household favorite to be savored year-round.
Make your home a St. Patrick’s Day haven with these hearty recipes then discover more celebratory meal ideas from “Cookin’ Savvy” by visiting Culinary.net.
Irish Sweet Soda Bread
Irish Beef and Beer Pot Pie
Irish Beef and Beer Pot Pie
Servings 4-6
1 pound ground beef
1 cup stout beer
3 tablespoons flour
1 can (15 ounces) tomato puree
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 tablespoon garlic powder
1 cup beef broth
1 bag (28 ounces) hashbrowns with peppers and onions
1 can (14 ounces) carrots, drained
1 can (14 ounces) peas, drained salt, to taste pepper, to taste
1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
1 egg
Heat oven to 400 F.
In large skillet or Dutch oven, brown ground beef; drain and set aside.
Over medium heat, deglaze skillet with beer and whisk in flour. After thickening, whisk in tomato puree and add Worcestershire sauce. Mix in ground beef, garlic powder and beef broth. Add hashbrowns, carrots and peas. Season with salt and pepper, to taste. Simmer 20-25
minutes, stirring occasionally.
Place puff pastry sheet on cookie sheet. Beat egg and brush over pastry. Bake 10 minutes. Place hot puff pastry on top of beef mixture and serve.
Irish Sweet Soda Bread
Servings 4-6
4 tablespoons butter, melted
1 cup sugar
1 1/2 cups buttermilk
4 cups self-rising flour
1 cup currants
2 tablespoons sanding sugar (optional) coffee or tea, for serving (optional)
Heat oven to 375 F.
Mix melted butter and sugar then add buttermilk. Mix in flour and currants.
Flour hands and counter. Add sanding sugar to dough, if desired, and knead into ball.
Grease small Dutch oven or pie plate and bake 40 minutes. Serve with coffee or tea, if desired, or as a dessert.
Substitutions Raisins can be used in place of currants. (Family Features)
Door Design Tips to Enhance Your Home’s Beauty and Value
When choosing doors for your home, remember that careful selections can improve not only your home’s beauty and value, but also your quality of life. Here are a few door types to consider, along with their benefits:
Exterior French Doors
French doors double the design impact and elevate the front entryway and curb appeal of any home. Manufacturers like ProVia offer customizations on every element of French doors so you can make a truly unique statement.
Start by choosing from various styles, materials and finishes. Then, consider the addition of sidelites, transoms and decorative or privacy glass.
control over, it’s helpful to use a design tool to configure the door of your dreams. Visit provia.com/designcenter to get started. Rest assured, no matter what your end results look like, there are a few factors you won’t have to worry about with ProVia doors: durability and energy efficiency.
Virtually every possible combination of door style, glass, sidelite and transom is built to last a lifetime and is ENERGY STAR certified.
Storm Doors
Storm doors provide doors and homes with an extra layer of protection from moisture, heat, wind, rain and other elements. Everyone has different requirements though. Fortunately, storm doors can be individually customized to meet your practical and
Depending on where you live, factors like the thickness and construction of the storm door can make a big difference in its performance. You’ll also want to investigate your glass and screen options for added fresh air circulation in your home.
While storm doors are often thought about more in terms of their functionality, it’s important to keep in mind that varying hardware options, styles and paint finishes allow you to seamlessly blend yours in with the aesthetic of your home.
Let the Outdoors In
Want to bathe your home interiors with light and the beauty of your natural surroundings? One of the most effective, low-maintenance ways to do just that is with vinyl sliding glass
tested against the most stringent industry standards for air and water infiltration, wind load resistance, ease of operation and more. This means you’ll have lower heating and cooling costs and increased comfort all while offering your household full, unparalleled views of your outdoor spaces.
Customization options, such as the materials and colors of the interior frame and the type of glass you choose, can help you tailor the look and functionality of your sliding glass doors.
For more design tips, visit provia. com.
For a true return on your home improvement project, consider how a door replacement can elevate your home’s style while protecting it from the elements. (SPT)
Shortness of Breath Not Going Away?
If you’re struggling with shortness of breath, you may want to ask your doctor for a blood test.
Pulmonary alveolar proteinosis (PAP) is an ultra-rare lung disease with approximately 3,600 diagnosed cases in the United States. Unfortunately, some people are potentially living with the disease without knowing it, as it is often misdiagnosed.
That is why the American Lung Association, with support from Savara Inc., is launching a new educational campaign to help healthcare providers and patients better recognize the signs and symptoms of autoimmune pulmonary alveolar proteinosis, (aPAP), the most common form of the disease. As part of the campaign, they are sharing
these fast facts:
What is aPAP?
This disease is characterized by the abnormal buildup of surfactant in the air sacs of the lungs, which can make breathing difficult. The buildup is due to an inability to clear the surfactant.
Occurring in both males and females, aPAP is often diagnosed between the ages of 30 and 60.
What are its symptoms?
Some people who are living with aPAP may not show symptoms initially, while others may have progressive shortness of breath. Additional symptoms include chronic cough, fatigue,
unintentional weight loss and chest pain.
Why is aPAP commonly misdiagnosed?
Since aPAP is so rare, and because symptoms are similar to other more common lung diseases, it is often misdiagnosed. Common misdiagnoses include both acute and chronic lung diseases such as pneumonia and asthma.
How is aPAP diagnosed?
If you are diagnosed with another lung disease and the treatment is not effective, your doctor may recommend a chest CT scan. If you have an abnormal chest scan with unresolved lung symptoms, you should also talk to your healthcare provider about getting a free, simple blood test called aPAP ClearPath, which measures the level of the GM-CSF antibodies in your blood to determine if you have the disease.
How is aPAP treated?
Currently, there is no cure for aPAP and no FDA-approved therapies; however, symptoms can be managed. The most common treatment is whole lung lavage, (WLL) also called “lung washing.” WLL washes out the builtup surfactant from the lungs, allowing you to breathe more easily. This treatment often needs to be repeated, as it doesn’t address the underlying cause of the disease.
Managing aPAP well means seeing a specialist who is familiar with this rare lung disease and going to all of your regularly scheduled healthcare appointments.
To learn more, visit Lung.org/PAP. Without treatment, this progressive disease can increase the risk of infection and lead to respiratory failure that may become life threatening. Don’t wait. Talk to your doctor if your respiratory symptoms are not being managed with current treatments. (SPT)
How to Pick the Right Plants for Your Location
When planning your yard or garden, you likely focus on the what and the where. After all, a beautiful plant in a prime location enhances curb appeal and even bragging rights.
You may pay less attention though to understanding how your location, or plant hardiness zone, impacts your garden’s success. To help ensure your plants don’t just survive, but thrive, the experts at lawn care equipment manufacturer Exmark are sharing the following insights about plant hardiness:
What is Plant Hardiness?
Plant hardiness is the secret sauce of any healthy outdoor space. Plant hardiness is the ability of a plant to survive adverse growing conditions such as drought, flooding, heat and cold. Have you ever watched with frustration as a late-season temperature dip leaves your beautiful buds with a serious case of frostbite? Plant hardiness zones were developed to help landscapers, gardeners and lawn care enthusiasts avoid this heartache.
American farming contributes billions of dollars to the gross national product annually, which is one
Plants are Long-Term Investments
Though plants might not seem like the first thing individuals think of when they ponder long-term investments, perennials can be just that. The home and garden experts at HGTV note that some perennials can live for a very long time. For example, according to HGTV, the colorful flowering plant peony, despite a blooming season that usually lasts just seven to 10 days, has been known to survive for 70 to 100 years. Hostas are another popular perennial because they require little maintenance, and that extra free time can add up over the course of the hosta’s life, which can exceed 15 years. Long-living perennials are not necessarily unusual, but gardeners should know that many perennials, and particularly those characterized as “short-lived,” tend to live around three years. (MC)
reason why the USDA has long monitored weather data. If determining when the average final frost may occur for every region in the country is worth billions, what could that same knowledge mean for your garden? Well, choosing plants with hardiness levels appropriate to specific planting zones gives you the best chance of cultivating healthy, beautiful plants.
What is My Growing Zone?
The United States is divided into 13 zones. Zones 1-6 being the coldest, and 7-13 the warmest. Zone 1 averages -60 degrees F while zone 13 never drops below 70 degrees F. A general guideline is to plant anything designated for your zone or lower, but never higher. Know what zone you live in and make a point of checking the tag on the back of the plant or seed pack before planting.
Santa Clarita is in USDA hardiness zones 9 and 10.
Perennials Versus Annuals
There’s a reason you see palm trees in Sarasota, Florida, not Saginaw, Michigan. When it comes to perennials, it’s not about when the first frost is, but how cold it gets, and whether that plant can survive and thrive through winter.
Plant hardiness zones are less important however when it comes to annuals. Because these plants are only meant to last one growing season; waiting until
after the average first frost date will save you from having to re-plant. Know that even if your plant survives the frost, it may never match the photo you saw advertised at the nursery.
Planting Zone Rule of Thumb
Plant hardiness zone maps are, well, all over the map. Consider the number assigned to your zip code as a starting point. You may live right at the break between one zone and the other. When in doubt, guess too low, rather than too high. In the South, the heat stress a plant not made for the conditions. Your particular geography can also affect your hardiness zone, like if you live on a hill or in a valley.
For more insights, check out the USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map and watch “Find Your Plant Hardiness Zone,” an episode of “Backyard Smart,” an original series from lawn care equipment manufacturer, Exmark. To watch the video, visit Backyard Life, which is part of a unique multimedia destination with a focus on helping homeowners improve their outdoor living spaces. There you can also download additional tips and view other Exmark Original Series videos.
Understanding what plants will thrive in your climate is essential to a healthy landscape. Fortunately, free resources abound to help you plant successfully. (SPT)
Getting Smart About Car Insurance Can Save Money
Consumers are facing increasing costs on virtually every purchase these days and auto insurance is no exception. While skyrocketing costs of this auto-related expense can be attributed to everything from parts replacement to service — even health costs as a result of accidents — consumers can better manage these increases with thoughtful study and attention to detail.
Some of the common causes for higher insurance rates are inflation, car accidents, extreme weather conditions such as hail, hurricanes and wind, along with increased vehicle theft claims.
Mercury Insurance has partnered with financial literacy influencer Sam Jarman to highlight specific ways consumers can address these rising costs.
“Your car is the second biggest expense for most people, right behind your home, and car insurance is a big part of that,” said Jarman. “Checking rates and coverage with your Mercury Insurance agent makes sense along with choosing a car with low maintenance costs.”
According to Consumer Price Index data released earlier this year, car insurance rates are up almost 21% yearover-year for the 12 months which
in
Here are some auto insurance statistics recently released from Forbes:
• * The national average cost for car insurance is $2,150 annually for full coverage.
• The cost of auto insurance increased by 63.8% between 2014 and 2023.
• The average car insurance cost for 16-year-old drivers with their own policy is $8,765. The average rate for 17-year-olds is $6,829.
• Car insurance is cheapest for 60-year-old drivers, averaging $1,915 annually.
management.
“We encourage consumers to build a close relationship with their agent and discuss what discounts they may be eligible to receive. The answer might be surprising.”
Mercury offers the following tips for lowering your insurance costs:
Review your deductibles with your insurance agent It is recommended that you review your coverage and deductible with your Mercury agent at least once a year. Their wisdom and experience can help you make wise decisions regarding your insurance.
Explore car insurance discounts
well as saving you money.
Drive a safe car with low repair costs
According to Bankrate, some of the cheapest cars to insure are the Subaru Outback, Honda CR-V and Honda Pilot. Also, look for cars with lower repair costs such as the Toyota Corolla, Toyota Prius and Tesla Model 3. Doing some research before you purchase a vehicle can save you money over the length of ownership.
Install an anti-theft device on your car Drivers may receive an additional discount on your auto insurance if you install an anti-theft device on your car.
In addition to bundling your home and auto insurance, Mercury offers discounts for multi-car, good drivers, good students and auto pay. Your agent may have additional discounts to offer.
Before you buy a car, compare insurance costs You can get a fast and easy quote from your Mercury Insurance agent. To receive a quote, you can reach us at (844) 514-2893.
• The vast majority of drivers have comprehensive and collision coverage. In addition to buying liability car insurance, 79% of insured drivers buy comprehensive coverage and 75% purchase collision coverage.
Let your insurer track your driving
• A staggering one in seven drivers have no car insurance.
“Our goal is to help our customers get the best rates possible because we know that every dollar counts.” said Justin Yoshizawa, director of product
Most insurers offer discounts for customers who install telematics. This technology allows your insurance company to collect information regarding your mileage and driving habits. This can also provide valuable information regarding your driving as
To learn more about common types of auto insurance discounts, visit www.mercuryinsurance.com/ resources/auto/understanding-typesof-auto-insurance-discounts.html.
For more information on your auto insurance, you can reference the Insurance Information Institute. (BPT)
ended
February. The last time car insurance rates rose that much on an annual basis was 1976.
What Older Adults Should Know This RSV Season
Each year, up to 160,000 older adults living in the United States are hospitalized and as many as 10,000 die due to respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). RSV is a highly contagious virus that spreads through close contact with infected individuals, typically increasing during the fall and peaking in winter.
While most people with RSV develop mild symptoms, like that of a common cold, RSV can cause severe illness in older adults, especially those with certain medical conditions, like chronic lung disease, chronic heart disease or a weakened immune system. That’s why the American Lung Association, with support from GlaxoSmithKline, is encouraging adults at increased risk for severe illness to protect themselves against RSV.
Here’s what they want you to know:
Severe Illness is Preventable
In 2023, RSV vaccines became available to help protect older adults from severe RSV illness, however, according to the most recent data, only 24% of older adults received it.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends RSV vaccination for adults aged 75 and older, and adults ages 60 to 74 at increased risk for severe RSV disease. You can get vaccinated any time, but the best time to receive an RSV vaccination is late summer and early fall before RSV starts to spread in the community.
If you have already received an RSV vaccine, you do not need another one. Talk with your healthcare provider about whether RSV vaccination is recommended for you.
“Vaccination is critical to saving lives and reducing hospitalizations during the respiratory virus season, but unfortunately, not enough old-
er adults are getting vaccinated and disparities persist that put some populations at increased risk of severe illness,” says Albert Rizzo, MD., chief medical officer of the American Lung Association.
National Immunization Survey data shows that RSV vaccination rates vary, with 27% of white/non-Hispanic adults having received a vaccine, compared to 21% of Black/non-Hispanic adults, and 15% of Hispanic/Latino adults.
At the same time, Black and Hispanic/Latino populations have higher rates of underlying conditions that increase the risk of severe RSV illness.
Healthy Habits Can Also Help Stop the Spread
In addition to vaccination, you can help stop the spread of RSV with these everyday actions:
• Washing your hands with soap and water for 20 seconds
• Covering your coughs and sneezes with a tissue
• Avoiding close contact with people who are sick
• Staying at home when you are sick and avoiding close contact with others
• Cleaning frequently touched surfaces
• Taking steps for cleaner indoor air For more information about RSV in adults and to learn steps to prevent severe illness, visit Lung.org/rsv.
“An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. However, if you do get sick with RSV this winter, be sure to watch for signs of severe illness, such as shortness of breath and worsening symptoms, and seek prompt medical attention if needed,” says Dr. Rizzo. (SPT)
FEATURE
ST. PATRICK’S
Continued from page 5
Festivities start early on Monday, March 17 at 10 a.m. and will go ‘til midnight.
No reservations for this event, first come, first served.
Food and drink St. Patrick’s Day specials will be served all weekend. Enjoy classic Irish favorites including Corned Beef and Cabbage, Fish and Chips, Traditional Cottage Pie, Bangers and Champ, Beef and Guiness Irish Stew and more.
Brewery Draconum
24407 Main St., Newhall, 91321
Info www.brewerydraconum.com
Brewery Draconum is a family owned and operated brewpub in Old Town Newhall that started with a vision to create a new-style social, dining, recreational experience centered around the world of craft beer.
Starting Friday, March 14, and while supplies last, Brewery Draconum will serve up freshly made roasted corned beef specials. The specials, which pair perfectly with Dry Irish Red Ale, include Corned Beef and Cabbage,
STRIPLIN
Continued from page 9
memorabilia from Hollywood’s early years.
Beyond its historical significance, Hart Park is a hub for some of Santa Clarita’s most anticipated annual events. This will be the site of our upcoming Santa Clarita Cowboy Festival in April, where residents can celebrate Western heritage with music, food, reenactments, trick ropers and shopping. It is also home to the Silents Under the Stars, an
Irish Beef Stew, Reuben Sandwich and Loaded Totchos.
Le Chene French Cuisine
12625 Sierra Highway, Santa Clarita 91390
Info lechene.com/events
It may sound strange to eat at a French restaurant on St. Patrick’s Day, but Le Chene proves once again the truth of the saying “Everyone is Irish on St. Patrick’s Day.”
Le Chene will celebrate St. Patrick’s Day Monday, March 17 with its regular menu along with St. Paddy’s Day dining room specials including Corned Beef and Cabbage and Lamb Stew with Soup or Salad.
To add to the festivities, Le Chene will feature a genuine Irish Bagpiper for all the Leprechauns in attendance.
Wolf Creek Restaurant and Brewery
27746 McBean Parkway, Valencia 91354
Info www.wolfcreekbrewery.com
Enjoy Corned Beef and Cabbage as well as Shepard’s Pie during St. Patrick’s Day weekend. Indulge in green beer and “everything else that’s green in between.”
event that honor’s Hart’s contributions to the silver stage, with outdoor screenings of silent films accompanied by live music. Additionally, the park is the longtime home to the Hart of the West Pow Wow, an annual event that celebrates Native American culture through traditional dance, music and storytelling. We anticipate the transfer of ownership to take place this summer, thanks to the efforts of our City Council and County of Los Angeles Fifth District Supervisor Kathryn Barger.
With the addition of these historic
Schooner’s Patio Grille
22903 Soledad Canyon Rd., Santa Clarita, 91350
Info www.schoonerssantaclarita.com
Schooner’s Patio Grille is known throughout the Santa Clarita Valley for offering up a good time on St. Patrick’s Day. This year is no exception with the weekend leading up to St. Patrick’s Day on Monday.
Enjoy traditional Corned Beef and
locations, Santa Clarita’s park network is expanding with both diversity and accessibility. While many of our parks focus on sports and recreation, the Pioneer Oil Refinery and William S. Hart Park, join the Tesoro Adobe Historic Park in offering unique educational opportunities. These parks provide the ability for residents to step back into time, and learn more about our local history.
As we look ahead to the park openings and the continued expansion of our recreational spaces, we invite the community to explore these new his-
Cabbage as well as other Irish inspired dishes like Irish Nachos and Irish Sliders.
In addition to green beer Schooner’s will also offer a touch of whimsy this St. Patrick’s Day with a lineup of fun frozen drinks including “Frozen Irish Coffee” and the “Pot of Gold” featuring a gummy rainbow on top, among other special creations.
torical landmarks. Whether strolling through Hart Park’s scenic trails, visiting the barnyard or getting a close-up look at the refinery stills, there are countless ways to connect with our City’s history while staying active. To stay updated on upcoming events, be sure to follow the City’s social media platforms or visit SantaClarita.gov.
Ken Striplin is the City Manager for the City of Santa Clarita and can be reached at kstriplin@santaclarita. gov.
Celebrate good food, good friends and live Irish music at various locations around Santa Clarita. SIGNAL FILE PHOTO
QWhat ever happened to the character of Daphne who was so central to the first season of “Bridgerton”? Is she ever coming back?
— A.W.
APhoebe Dynevor, who starred in the first season of “Bridgerton” as Daphne and continued into season two, chose not to sign a new contract once her obligation was fulfilled. Her character was glaringly absent in the third season at the wedding ceremonies of her siblings, but the show chose not to explain the whereabouts of her character.
Season four of the series will focus on Benedict Bridgerton’s (Luke Thompson) pursuit of Sophie Baek (Yerin Ha) with a storyline that is “a bit of a twist on ‘Cinderella,’” according to Netflix’s companion website Tudum. The story is from “An Offer from a Gentleman,” which is the third novel of author Julia Quinn’s “Bridgerton” series.
Filming isn’t expected to wrap until April 2025. Netflix did release a sneak peek of the upcoming season, but a release date hasn’t been announced.
QI’m excited that Heidi Klum is returning to “Project Runway,” but what about Tim Gunn? I want to see them both together onscreen again.
— Y.B.
AThe fashion design competitive reality series “Project Runway” is returning, but it’ll be on a different network — Freeform. When it premiered on Bravo in 2004, Tim Gunn and Heidi Klum hosted the show together. The two left the series in 2017 to start another show on Amazon Prime Video called “Making the Cut.” They said the bigger budget allowed them to have more creative freedom, but it lasted for just three seasons.
This past January, it was announced that Klum was returning to “Project Runway” at its new network home, Freeform. Shockingly, Gunn wasn’t asked back. He told People magazine that Klum reached out to him to ask if he was interested in returning. He said, “Of course,” but was never given an offer from Freeform. His agent contacted the producers, who said, “We don’t want him.” Gunn, understandably, is hurt, and his fans are outraged. He doesn’t blame Klum, though, saying, “I have her back, and I’m with her in spirit always.”
The new “Project Runway” will debut later this year, but the judges and premiere date have yet to be announced.
QIs there really going to be a “Legally Blonde” series? Will Reese Witherspoon star in it?
— K.S.
AYes, there is a “Legally Blonde” project in the development stages at Amazon MGM Studios. Reese Witherspoon’s production company Hello Sunshine is behind the project, but it’s not known what kind of on-screen presence, if any, she’ll have since originating the role of Elle Woods in 2001. The series is actually a prequel, and another actress will play young Elle. Lexi Minetree (“The Murdaugh Murders”) recently secured the role.
There were plans for a “Legally Blonde 3” starring Witherspoon, but it’s been delayed since 2022. No word on whether it will see the light of day
or if they’ll just focus on the prequel series.
©2023 King Features Synd., Inc.
Phoebe Dyvenor as Daphne in the Netflix series “Bridgerton” Courtesy of Netflix.
PUZZLES
SOLUTIONS
Why Hackman Captivated Us
I spend part of each year in Santa Fe, New Mexico, and on every visit, I secretly hoped to see Gene Hackman, who had a home there. Locals told me they would sometimes spot Hackman at a bookstore near the town plaza, which I frequent, but I never did see him.
The deaths of Gene Hackman and his wife have become a major story — not just for the mystery surrounding them, but because of who Hackman was: one of America’s greatest actors, an iconic celebrity whose career spanned decades. Hackman mastered what is arguably America’s greatest art form, film. Today, fame can be instant and superficial. Reality TV personalities, like the “Property Brothers” or stars of the “Real Housewives” franchise, gain recognition for remodeling homes or engaging in performative drama. They may be entertaining, but their contributions differ vastly from those of a true artist like Hackman. He didn’t just act — he transformed into his characters, immersing audiences in stories that felt personal and real. The first time I saw Hackman on film was in his iconic role of police detective Jimmy “Popeye” Doyle in the 1971 movie “The French Connection.” Hackman won the Academy Award for Best Actor for that role. He was so believable I forgot I was watching a movie. Hackman could also switch to comedy. Who can forget his over-the-top performance as supervillain Lex Luthor in the 1978 “Superman” movie? You almost wanted to root for Lex Luthor over Superman. But being a movie star and being an actor are not the same thing, and Hackman was undoubtedly the latter. This story will continue to captivate the public. We may never fully understand what led to the deaths of Hackman and his wife, but America will remain fixated on the loss of a man whose presence on screen made us believe in the characters he portrayed. That is the mark of an extraordinary talent.
Philip Wasserman Stevenson Ranch
ETHICALLY SPEAKING
Mr. Anonymous, Who Are You?
By David Hegg
Why are we more prone to act poorly if we think we’re anonymous? Occasionally, we hear news reports of hurtful things speakers have said, thinking their mics are off. And if you’re like me, you’ve probably received critical letters from Mr. Anonymous. And, of course, there is the ever-popular activity of slamming someone online while hiding behind a pseudonym. Remember back in elementary school when our teachers taught us that “integrity is who you are when no one is looking?” It seems to me that’s a pretty good standard that has fallen on hard times. Today, integrity is too often redefined to allow us to look good for self-promotion while hiding the ugliness of who we are.
But why should that even matter? Why misbehave just because you think you can get away with it? What does that say about who you really are? And, more to the point, is that the kind of person you want to be down deep?
The second thing this venom-spewing caller was wrong about was the repercussions of her actions. Believing she was anonymous, she never considered that her identity as the wife of one of the company’s executives would become known or that the story of her insensitivity to one of their frontline employees would find its way to the president and the board.
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Include name, address & phone. E-mail: letters@signalscv.com.
That gets us into another subject. Why do we want to appear better than we are? Isn’t that just the height of hypocrisy? Doesn’t it make better sense to work hard to become what we hope others think we are?
Behind all this is a growing duplicity between who we are and who we want people to think we are. We’ve become a society of actors, playing the roles we believe will move us down whatever path leads to success.
Recently, I had the privilege of helping some customer service reps deal with an anonymous caller spewing out Level 5 anger. The caller, thinking she was safely ensconced in anonymity, was throwing off all restraints and throwing down a truckload of rude, discourteous remarks. She was a master at interruption, thinking she could shake the consistent courtesy of the customer service rep on the other end of the line. But there were at least two things the caller didn’t know.
First … folks get this … when you’re on the phone, you’re hardly ever anonymous. Every business with a receptionist will have a phone system displaying the incoming number and the linked account. So, while you think the person on the other end will never know your identity, you’re often wrong.
That’s where the story ends, but I intend to get us all thinking carefully about who we really are and who we should be. If we want our society to flourish, hypocrisy cannot be the norm. Suppose we’re different when anonymous, when no one is looking, and when we think no one will ever know. In that case, we must also admit we have abandoned any ethical consistency and, therefore, have no right to call a foul on anyone else.
And, lastly, no matter what you think, no one is ever anonymous. In the biblical book of 1 Samuel, the author and God are conversing about who he has chosen to be his king. In the money line of the story, we read, “But the LORD said to Samuel, ‘Do not look on his appearance or on the height of his stature, because I have rejected him. For the LORD sees not as man sees: man looks on the outward appearance, but the LORD looks on the heart.’”
Next time you’re tempted to go off on someone, to let them have it either verbally or via keyboard, because you think the wall of anonymity protects you, remember this. While no one else may know it’s you, God does, and he keeps an account that one day must be settled.
Local resident David Hegg is senior pastor of Grace Baptist Church. “Ethically Speaking” appears Sundays.
ORGANICS
Brought to you by Mayor Bill Miranda, Mayor Pro Tem Laurene Weste, Councilmember Patsy Ayala, Councilmember Jason Gibbs and Councilwoman Marsha McLean.