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Easter Egg Hunts and Other Eggceptional Traditions

Easter is celebrated in various ways. Traditional religious commemorations include Saturday evening Easter vigils and Sunday morning Resurrection masses. Parents may spend Easter weekend putting the finishing touches on Easter Bunny baskets, and many families favor a combination of traditions.

Since religious as well as secular imagery and traditions have melded to form the Easter most individuals recognize today, a mix of customs may be part of your Easter festivities. Among them will be colored eggs, egg hunts and possibly even egg rolls. Just how was the Easter egg tradition hatched?

Pre-Christian Societies

Before Christianity was as widespread as it is in modern times, many societies associated eggs with spring and new life. Many birds and animals lay eggs early in spring, and these eggs tend to hatch upon the arrival of the warm weather, budding flowers and buzzing insects.

Ancient Persians are believed to have painted eggs for Nowrooz, their new year celebration that would fall on the spring equinox each year.

Eggs also have been part of Passover celebrations. A hard-boiled egg dipped in salt water is served at a Passover seder, symbolizing both new life away from oppression and the Passover sacrifice at the Temple in Jerusalem, according to Chabad.org.

Lent, Christianity and Eggs

In medieval times, eating eggs was forbidden during Lent, when both dairy and meat were avoided. To reduce waste, eggs laid during Lent were boiled or preserved in some way.

The fast ended on Easter Sunday, and eggs became, once again, important and nutritious staples — especially for poor families that couldn’t afford

much meat. Eggs also were given to the church by medieval English villagers and also to the lords of the manor. Royals eventually got in on the act, and decorated eggs were distributed to the household in a tradition that was one of the earliest to include eggs.

Easter Egg Hunts

Come Easter Sunday, eager children wake up to see if the Easter Bunny has visited their homes. For many families, Easter would not be the same without an annual egg hunt. From chocolate confections to money-filled plastic shells to colorful, hand-decorated hard-boiled eggs, the Easter Bunny (and his parental helpers) hide eggs all around.

As with many traditions, people may engage in the festivities without really understanding the origins behind the fun. It can be interesting to unearth just how such egg hunts were hatched.

As with many religious traditions, Easter egg coloring and hunts trace their origins to pre-Christian societies. These societies developed

rituals surrounding nature, the seasons and more. Some traditions were adapted to link them to the Christian faith. Eggs held associations with new life and spring.

However, early Christians turned the egg into a symbol of the Resurrection and the empty shell became a representation of Christ’s tomb. Eggs also were important components of the Easter holiday, as they were prohibited (like meat) during Lent. But on Easter, fasting ended and eggs were a part of Easter celebrations, particularly for the poor who couldn’t afford meat.

There are two widely known accounts of the origins of Easter egg hunts. The religious version has Protestant reformer Martin Luther organizing hunts for his congregation. The men would hide the eggs for women and children to find, which mirrors Resurrection accounts in the Bible in which women discovered Christ’s empty tomb.

Another account traces the tradition to the Dutch tale of the “Oschter Haws” (“Osterhase” in German), which was a hare that laid eggs in the grass. Children would build and decorate nests for the eggs and wait to see if they would be populated, according to Discovery.com. This tradition became popular in America with the arrival of Dutch and German settlers in Pennsylvania in the 1700s. By the 20th century, decorated Easter nests were replaced with baskets, and Osterhase was more affectionately known as the Easter Bunny, who chose to leave eggs as well as treats and candy. Easter celebrations continued to marry both the religious and secular to form many of the customs that are known widely today.

Easter egg hunts are enjoyed by the young and old on Easter. They’re a key part of celebrations. Just remember to find all those hard-boiled eggs in a timely fashion. (MC)

Christians and even many non-Christians likely know that Easter is the Christian celebration of the resurrection of Jesus Christ. Less widely known may be the origins of the name of this significant holiday.

Historians are not certain about the precise origins of the name “Easter.” Some believe the name can be traced to the English monk Bede, often referred to as “St. Bede the Venerable” or “The Venerable Bede.”

According to History.com, in his most famous work, Ecclesiastical History of the English People, Bede asserts that the English word “Easter” can be

traced to “Eostre” or “Eostrae,” which is the pagan Anglo-Saxon goddess of spring.

Many historians past and present echo this sentiment and believe Eostre is the namesake of Easter. However, others believe “Easter” comes from the Latin phrase “in albis,” which is plural for “alba” (dawn).

That phrase became “eostarum” in Old High German, a language that historians have connected to Old English. Though which camp is correct may never be resolved, there’s no denying that the word “Easter” represents the same spirit of rebirth that Christians celebrate each spring. (MC)

Easter Traditions Around the World

Easter is a special day for Christians across the globe. While the highlight of Easter celebrations are the religious events, particularly the vigils and church services, Easter fanfare sometimes stretches beyond church walls.

The following are some Easter traditions across the globe. Travelers should confirm the festivities are still on as COVID-19 restrictions continue to be put in place in various locales.

Bermuda

Celebrants create and fly homemade kites on Good Friday Kitefest, which features bold, geometric designs. It’s also traditional to eat codfish and hot cross buns during Holy Week. On Easter Sunday, the faithful participate in sunrise services on various Bermuda beaches.

Costa Rica

Costa Ricans take Holy Week and Easter quite seriously. Each town hosts parades and processions during Holy Week, providing dramatic re-enactments of Jesus’ journey through Jerusalem to his crucifixion and resurrection.

England

Good Friday visitors to Trafalgar Square can see a classic dramatization of Jesus’ resurrection. “The Passion of Jesus” is a 90-minute performance that attracts thousands of visitors.

France

Many people visit the famed Notre Dame Cathedral to hear its bells toll throughout Easter Sunday. A fire destroyed a portion of the cathedral roof in 2019 and repairs are still underway. There also are Paris Easter egg hunts. Parisians and tourists also can visit La Sainte Chapelle, which offers Easter

concerts consisting of classical music and choral singers.

Israel

Israel is a melting pot of both Jewish and Christian faithful. Easter is a solemn celebration here. In Old Jerusalem, faithful pilgrims and priests walk the Via Dolorosa, which is the same path that Jesus took on the day he was crucified. The Way of the Cross, which is what the procession is called, is among the most amazing sights in the world.

Italy

Easter is special in Italy and particularly in Vatican City, the home of the Pope. The Pope holds a special mass on Easter in Saint Peter’s Square, which traditionally draws huge crowds. Elsewhere in Italy, masses take place at area churches and many towns host parades and other celebrations.

Mexico

Holy Week reenactments take place in devout areas of Mexico. Residents in other areas may take part in silent processions through town, or by visiting 12 churches in 12 days.

Easter is a time of celebration and reflection in

Significance of the Red Easter Egg

Easter eggs are decorated in many hues before they’re ultimately hidden for youngsters to find. While pastel-colored eggs are the norm, one color has particular religious significance for those who want to go a bit bolder with their egg displays.

It is tradition among Orthodox Christians to exchange red eggs. According to History.com, red eggs are associated with Mary Magdalene and her role in Christianity. After the Ascension of Christ, Mary Magdalene went to the Roman emperor and greeted him with “Christ is Risen.” He then stated, “Christ has not risen no more than that egg is red (pointing to an egg on his table).” After making the statement, the egg turned blood red. Mary Magdalene then began preaching Christianity to him, and the red egg has come to symbolize the blood of Christ redeeming the world.

Easter Bunny

Another symbol that people could be forgiven for mistaking as purely secular, the Easter Bunny is not entirely separate from the spiritual meaning of the holiday. As noted, Easter, even though it’s a moveable feast, takes place in spring in the northern hemisphere each year.

Spring is symbolic of rebirth, and the hare was a symbol of fertility among the ancient pagans. The spirit of rebirth associated with rabbits, particularly in spring, also is reminiscent of the resurrection of Jesus from his tomb. (MC)

Birds of a Feather … Flock to the SCV

By Michele E. Buttelman Signal Staff Writer

The U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service estimates there are about 45 million birders in the United States. The number of people embracing birding as a hobby grew during the COVID-19 pandemic with people searching for new outdoor entertainment options.

Living in the Santa Clarita Valley most people are familiar with the numerous ravens, hawks, doves and sparrows that can be seen almost daily in our yards or while driving on the 14 and 5 freeways.

However, California hosts the largest, most diverse concentration of birds in the United States.

More than 600 bird species have been spotted in California. That number makes up about twothirds of all bird species in North America.

Placerita Canyon Nature Center

One of the best ways to start birding in the Santa Clarita Valley is to participate in a bird walk with experts.

The Placerita Canyon Nature Center and Placerita Canyon Natural Area, 19152 Placerita Canyon Road, Newhall 91321, offer the perfect venue to see a variety of birds in the SCV.

The Nature Center offers a bird walk twice a month on the first and second Saturdays beginning at 8 a.m.

“We usually see between 15 and 25 species of birds, depending on the season, and how lucky we are,” said Ken Yasukawa, a nature center bird walk leader. “The birds we mostly see are acorn woodpeckers, California scrub jays and Anna’s hummingbirds. We also see red-tailed hawks and sometimes Cooper’s hawks and red-shouldered hawks.”

Yasukawa advises first time birders to attend a bird walk and to purchase a quality pair of binoculars.

“I would suggest not to purchase cheap plastic binoculars, they aren’t worth the money,” he said. “I recommend spending enough to purchase binoculars that are filled with nitrogen so they don’t cloud up on the inside and are more water resistant.”

Birding also requires a certain amount of patience, said Yasukawa.

“When we are on bird walks, we see birds as we are walking, but we have our best luck when we stop and wait for the birds to come to us,” he said.

Yasukawa said birding is a great hobby for many reasons. “Being out in nature is always a good thing, it is calming,” he said.

The hobby also allows for individuals to set chal-

lenges for themselves, said Yasukawa.

“Some birders are big listers, they keep detailed lists and know exactly how many species they’ve seen in their lifetime,” he said. “They know the exact day, place and time where they’ve seen a bird they having been looking for.”

In addition to the bird walks at the nature center a newly opened Know Your Nature Center exhibit offers guests a “Let’s Go Birdwatching” video and also features educational displays and information on “Bird Nests of Placerita Canyon” and “Birds of Placerita Canyon.”

Animal shows are held the first and third Saturdays of the month at 10 a.m. where you can meet a great-horned owl and a red-tailed hawk. Guests need to keep a 10-foot distance from the birds because of the recent outbreak of avian flu.

The SCV is also home to many other species of birds including pigeons; doves; waterfowl; gulls; turkey vultures; seven species of owls including barn owls and screech owls; lesser goldfinches; and the American robin, to name only a few.

Vasquez Rocks Natural Area

Vasquez Rocks Natural Area and Nature Center, 10700 W. Escondido Canyon Rd, Santa Clarita 91390, also offers animal shows on Saturdays at 10 a.m. Among the birds presented are a red-tail hawk, great horned owl and a falcon.

Britney Gilroy of the Vasquez Nature Center said the park offers a wide variety of birding opportunities including seeing birds of prey and songbirds.

Among the birds frequently spotted are quail, roadrunners, red-tail hawks, ravens, California towhees, Say’s Phoebes and White Crowned sparrows. “We just had a large group of robins stop by the park,” Gilroy said. “They are migrating and have moved on now.”

Birders at Vasquez Rocks have reported seeing many other birds including the House finch, Western bluebird, scrub jays and the occasionally-spotted, magnificent Golden Eagle.

Other SCV Birding Locations

Another popular spot in the SCV for watching birds is the Bridgeport community in Valencia. The man-made lake has attracted a population of Canada geese, as well as a variety of different species of ducks and other waterfowl, including egrets and herons. There are also a number of non-native species at the lake, such as the great-tailed grackle.

The lake is a frequent “stop-over” habitat for birds migrating from north to south, or south to north, depending on the season. Be sure you are not trespassing on private property when you visit.

Different habits support different birds which means that some of the birds you see at Vasquez Rocks, which is more arid, might be different than birds you might spot at Placerita Canyon or Castaic Lake.

Castaic Lake State Recreation Area, 32132 Castaic Lake Drive, Castaic 91384, offers birders a chance to see a large number and variety of waterfowl at several lakeside locations and trails including the West Ramp Loop trail and the upper lake and lower lagoon.

The Sepulveda Basin Wildlife Area in the San Fernando Valley is another option for birders.

Located at 6350 Woodley Ave. Van Nuys 91436, the area is a 2,000-acre flood control basin that hosts the 225-acre Wildlife Reserve. The reserve boasts a list of nearly 200 bird species. It is considered one of the finest refuges of its kind within a major urban area.

The reserve offers a first Sunday of the month bird walk at 8 a.m. 

A family of geese graze near Bridgeport Marketplace Lake in Valencia.. SIGNAL FILE PHOTO

The acorn woodpecker is a frequent visitor to the Placerita Canyon Nature Center where it collects acorns and stores them in tree trunks and branches throughout the park. PHOTO GARY PARK,

29 Historic Landmarks

California State Parks are Home to History

By Michele E. Buttelman Signal Staff Writer

California State Parks are the home of 29 National Historic Landmarks, significant historic places designated by the Secretary of the Interior because of their value to the heritage of the United States.

Here is a list of just a few. To see the complete list with information as to why they are designated historic landmarks, visit www.parks.ca.gov/29394.

Asilomar #1052

Asilomar State Beach

800 Asilomar Ave., Pacific Grove 93950

Info www.parks.ca.gov/?page_

id=566

Asilomar was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1987 for the significant role it played in the work of the YWCA and as an outstanding example of master architect Julia Morgan’s work. Born in San Francisco, Morgan was the first female architect to be licensed in California.

Beale’s Cut Stagecoach Pass #1006

22580 Sierra Hwy, Sylmar 91342 Info www.hmdb.org/m.asp?m=

184724

At the time of its construction in 1862, it was considered a technological and physical feat. General Edward F. Beale is attributed with the construction of the toll road that breached the “impassable geographic barrier” of the San Gabriel and Santa Susana Mountain ranges.

Bear Flag Monument #7

Sonoma State Historic Park

20 E. Spain St #5729, Sonoma 95476 Info www.parks.ca.gov/?page_

id=479

The site of the raising of the Bear Flag during the revolt of 1846, Sonoma Plaza was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1960 and consists of 12 one- and two-story buildings from the Mexican Period. In its raising of the flag by the Bear Flag Party, the group declared California free from Mexican rule.

Bodie State Historic Park #341 Highway 270, Bridgeport 93517 Info www.parks.ca.gov/?page_

id=509

Bodie was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1961 for its significance as a genuine mining ghost

town. Its mines produced gold valued at more than $100 million. Once a thriving town of nearly 10,000 people, today the town is preserved in a state of “arrested decay.”

Castro-Breen Adobe #179

San Juan Bautista State Historic Park

2nd & Washington Sts, San Juan Bautista 95045

Info ohp.parks.ca.gov/Listed Resources/Detail/179

Completed in 1841, it is one of the best examples of adobe buildings representing the Mexican Rancho period of California History. The adobe was designated as a National Historic Landmark in 1970.

Columbia State Historic Park #123 22708 Broadway St., Columbia 95310

Info www.parks.ca.gov/?page_

id=552

The park is one of the best-preserved gold rush mining towns in the Sierras and was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1961. Gold was discovered March 27, 1850 and a mining camp with more than 1,000 prospectors was established. At one time Columbia was the second largest city in California.

Commander’s House #5 Fort Ross State Historic Park 19005 Coast Highway, Jenner 95450 Info www.parks.ca.gov/?page_

id=449

Designated a National Historic Landmark in 1970, the Commander’s House is an excellent and rare example of Russian log architecture in the United States. The log house dates to 1836 or earlier. Fort Ross, a fur and agricultural settlement, was established by the Russian American Company in 1812.

Marshall Monument Marshall Gold Discovery State Historic Park Landmark #143

Old Sacramento State Historic Park Landmark #812

PHOTO COURTESY VISIT CALIFORNIA

PHOTO COURTESY LIBRARY OF CONGRESS

Hit the Trails this May!

By Ken Striplin Santa Clarita City Manager

“When the spirits are low, when the day appears dark, when work becomes monotonous, when hope hardly seems worth having, just mount a bicycle and go out for a spin down the road, without thought on anything but the ride you are taking.”

— Sir Arthur Conan Doyle

Springtime in Santa Clarita will always be my favorite season. After all of the rain we have received these past few months, the surrounding mountains have bloomed into beautiful rolling green hills, making it the perfect time to get outside and onto our trails. Each year in May, the City proudly celebrates Bike Safety Month with a slew of different opportunities for our residents to enjoy. With over 80 miles of trails and 20 miles of paseos, the options are endless.

A community favorite, and personally one of mine, is the annual Hit the Trail event. Scheduled for May 13 from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m., this free,

self-guided community bike ride invites families and friends to hop onto a bike and explore their City while enjoying the outdoors.

Participants can choose to ride three different routes, each varying in length and all starting and ending at the same location.

The Iron Horse Trailhead is the shortest route spanning 4 miles. The next step up is the George A. Caravalho Santa Clarita Sports Complex route which is 10 miles long and finally the Lost Canyon Trailhead route which is 15.5 miles long.

From each location, riders can enjoy the path as they cycle to the trail near Bridgeport Park, where the first 100 riders to arrive will receive a goody bag.

Whether you are an avid rider or just a beginner, this event is perfect for anyone who wants to venture onto our trails and appreciate the unique opportunities the City has to offer.

Historically, Santa Clarita has been recognized by the League of American Bicyclists as a bicycle-friendly community, and most recently ranked as “Silver-Level.” This award recognizes Santa Clarita’s commitment to improving conditions for bicyclists through investments in infrastructure, education programs and bike events — such as Hit the Trail.

In addition to this event, residents should be on the lookout for other programs and events taking place throughout the month of May. This includes the 19th Annual Bike to Work Challenge, which is a Citywide challenge to see which business can get the most employees to bike to work; and we are introducing the brand-new summer Bike Challenge which will begin in June.

I encourage all of our residents to try to participate in one (or more) of these fun, free and hearthealthy events. Now is the time to dust off your bikes, pump up your tires and hit the trail! For more information on any of the Bike Safety Month events, please visit BikeSantaClarita.com and follow the City of Santa Clarita’s social media pages.

Ken Striplin can be reached at kstriplin@santaclarita.com. The views expressed in his column are those of the City and do not necessarily reflect those of The Signal. 

Savor Spring Flavor with Fresh Seafood Recipes

Fresh, flavorful ingredients take springtime meals to another level, and it's hard to top seafood as a seasonal favorite. Skip the wait at restaurants and instead create your own savory seafood dishes by taking advantage of easy-to-make recipes.

While takeout may be an easy option, the satisfaction of enjoying a delicious, home-cooked meal like Shrimp Pad Thai with Jasmine Rice can make you feel like you're enjoying a restaurant-quality dinner. Next time you're craving Asian cuisine, swap out traditional rice noodles for this version with Jasmine rice as an aromatic, quick-cooking solution for your own spin on a classic.

Take the guesswork out of cooking rice with an option like Success Boil-In-Bag Rice, which offers a heat safe, BPA-free and FDA-approved solution for fluffy, flavorful rice that cooks up perfectly. The high-quality grains are quick, easy, mess-free and ready in 10 minutes, so you can enjoy hassle-free dishes such as Successful Crab and Rice Cakes.

These crispy crab cakes come together easily and are served with a zesty, homemade aioli that tastes just like you're on the coast. If you're new to making crab cakes, it's simpler than it may seem - just cook rice beforehand so it can cool then mix in beaten eggs, seafood and seasonings. Refrigerating and resting the mixture helps it hold together before frying to a mouthwatering golden brown for a delicious appetizer, snack or side dish.

Visit SuccessRice.com to find more springtime meal ideas.

Shrimp Pad Thai with Jasmine Rice

Prep time 15 minutes

Cook time 10 minutes

Servings 4

1 bag Success Jasmine Rice

3 tablespoons light brown sugar

2 tablespoons fish sauce

2 tablespoons lime juice

2 tablespoons soy sauce

1 tablespoon chili garlic sauce

2 tablespoons canola oil, divided

1 egg, lightly beaten

1 pound medium shrimp, peeled and deveined

1 tablespoon minced garlic

3 green onions, thinly sliced

1 cup bean sprouts

1/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves, chopped

2 tablespoons dry roasted peanuts, chopped

4 lime wedges

Prepare rice according to package directions. Set aside.

In small bowl, combine brown sugar, fish sauce, lime juice, soy sauce and chili garlic sauce. Set aside.

In large wok or skillet over high heat, heat 1/2 tablespoon oil. Quickly scramble egg. Remove from pan and reserve.

Add remaining oil to wok over high heat. Add shrimp and garlic; stir-fry 5 minutes, or until shrimp are cooked. Add reserved sauce and rice; stir-fry 2 minutes. Add green onions and reserved egg; toss to combine.

Divide pad Thai between four bowls. Top each with bean sprouts, cilantro and peanuts. Serve with lime wedges. (Family Features) 

Successful Crab and Rice Cakes

Prep time 20 minutes

Cook time 20 minutes

Servings 4

Crab Cakes

1 bag Success Brown Rice

2 eggs

1 pound lump crabmeat

2 tablespoons seafood seasoning

2 tablespoons olive oil

Aioli

1/3 cup mayonnaise

1 teaspoon minced garlic

1 lemon, zest and juice only lemon wedges (optional)

To make crab cakes Prepare rice according to package directions. Allow to cool.

In medium bowl, beat eggs lightly. Stir in rice, crabmeat and seafood seasoning; mix well. Refrigerate 5 minutes. Shape mixture into eight patties.

In large, nonstick skillet over medium heat, heat oil. Working in batches, carefully place patties in skillet. Cook 5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown. Transfer to paper towel-lined plate.

To make aioli Stir together mayonnaise, garlic, lemon zest and lemon juice.

Serve aioli with crab cakes and garnish with lemon wedges, if desired. (Family Features) 

You Won’t Need to Have Played to Enjoy D&D

By Richard Roeper Signal Contributing Writer

‘Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves’

 (out of four)

Paramount Pictures presents a film directed by Jonathan Goldstein and John Francis Daley and written by Goldstein, Daley and Michael Gilio. Rated PG-13. In theaters.

Full disclosure, I was never a Dungeons & Dragons enthusiast back in the day, as my tabletop gaming pursuits were more along the lines of Sure Shot Hockey, Cadaco’s BASKET and Strat-O-Matic Baseball — but I know the basics of D&D, and I appreciate its enormous popularity, which has extended far beyond the gaming world.

Still, when you’re making an ambitious, large-budget adaptation, in order for it to succeed, you’ve got to reach millions who aren’t famil-

iar with the source material, whether you’re interpreting a board game, a video game, a book or a popular song, and yes, they’ve made movies from pop songs, haven’t you ever seen “Take This Job and Shove It” or “Born in East L.A.”? Think of all the people who became addicted to “Game of Thrones” without reading a page of George R.R. Martin’s books, or who were enthralled by “The Last of Us” without ever playing the game.

Which brings us to the good news: Even if you’ve never once rolled the dice in the role-playing game, there’s a solid chance you’ll enjoy the whizbang fantasy adventure that is “Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves.” Co-directors Jonathan Goldstein and John Francis Daley, working from a script they penned with Michael Gilio, have struck the right balance between high-stakes action, warm drama and clever comedy in a consistently engaging, mostly familyfriendly romp that features some of the most spot-on casting of any film

so far this year. From the moment each of the main characters steps into the story, we’re thinking: Yep, that’s the right actor for that role.

Chris Pine, who has the megawatt smile and the stubbornly perfect hair of a matinee idol from a bygone era, lends his self-deprecating presence to the role of one Edgin Darvis, a member of the Harpers, an organization of spies and thieves who have a kind of rebellious, Robin Hood group mentality.

Edgin to make a plan, because after all, Dungeons & Dragons is all about making plans to save the day, and adjusting those plans accordingly along the way, yes?

Edgin and Holga form a team that includes the gifted but insecure young wizard Simon (Justice Smith); the shapeshifting druid Doric (Sophia Lillis), who for the most part doesn’t trust humans; and the impossibly handsome, ridiculously heroic paladin Xenk (Rege-Jean Page), who is almost too good to be true but has zero sense of humor, doesn’t understand irony and will bore you to tears with his grand proclamations about how one should live one’s life. They each have different goals, but the elaborate and sometimes dizzying plot boils down to this ragtag but determined band somehow defeating the nefarious Forge Fitzwilliam — and his infinitely more dangerous partner in death and destruction, the Red Wizard known as Sofina (Daisy Head), a pure psychopath with seemingly unlimited powers.

batt e that w ll dec de the fate of the wor d Prior to the film, aud ences w ll be treated to an ntroduc tion from E ijah Wood

T H E LO S T W E E K E N D: A LOV E S TO RY Thu: 7:30 PM

“The Lost Weekend: A Love Stor y ” explores the 18-month re at onship (1973-1975) that John Lennon spent with May Pang, his Ch nese Amer can assistant turned over (on Yoko Ono’s insistence)

PA I N T C 1:30 7:30

Carl Nargle, Vermont s #1 publ c telev sion pa nter s convinced he has it all: a signature perm, custom van, and fans hanging on h s ever y stroke unt l a younger, better ar tist steals ever ything (and ever yone) Car oves

A I R E 1:20 4:20 7:20

A R reveals the unbel evable game - changing par tnership between a then rookie Michae Jordan and Nike s fledg ing basketba l div s on which revolut onized the wor d of spor ts and contemporar y culture w th the A r Jordan brand

T H E S U P E R M A R I O B RO S. M OV I E B 12:55 3:10 5:25 7:40

For the first t me the icon c globa enter ta nment brands llum nation and N ntendo join forces to create The Super Mar o Bros Movie, a new, bigscreen adventure starr ng one of pop culture s most prominent plumbers of the past four decades

D U N G E O N S & D R AG O N S: H O N O R A M O N G T H I E V E S C 12:50 4:00 7:10

A charming thief and a band of unl ke y adventurers under take an epic he st to retrieve a ost rel c, but th ngs go dangerously awr y when they run afoul of the wrong peop e

A G O O D P E R S O N E Sun to Wed: 1:00 4:00 7:00; Thu: 1:00 4:00

A lison s a young woman with a bright future but her world crumbles in the b ink of an eye when she sur vives an unimaginab e Her would-be fatherin- aw gives her a fighting chance to put herse f back together and move for ward w th her l fe

H I S O N LY S O N C Sun: 1:10 4:30 7:30; Mon & Tue: 1:10 4:30; Wed: 1:10 4:30 7:30; Thu: 1:10 4:30

Genesis 22 It is one of the most controvers a moments in al Scr pture This feature film

Edgin’s penchant for unnecessary risk-taking leads to an evil and powerful cabal known as the Red Wizards executing his wife, and eventually lands Edgin and his best friend, the fearless warrior Holga (Michelle Rodriguez), in prison. (The cheeky overall tone of “Dungeons” is quickly established when Edgin and Holga execute a daring escape during a hearing before the prison board; they’re just out of earshot when a parole board member calls out that they’ve actually been approved for release.)

Off we go on our adventure in some sort of medieval-fantasy era, with the impressive sets and the inevitable CGI setting the tone. (There are a lot of weird creatures with jarring appearances roaming and flitting around.) Edgin and Holga learn that their former ally, the duplicitous Forge Fitzwilliam (cue Hugh Grant to start hamming it up) has risen to power and has also become the de facto father to Edgin’s daughter, Kira (Chloe Coleman). Why, that rat Forge Fitzwilliam! Now it’s time for

Many of the battle sequences in “Honor Among Thieves” are serviceable at best, but there’s usually a nifty twist, e.g., there’s a voracious dragon who is so oversized and heavy he could be on a show called “My 6,000lb. Dragon Life.” The humor is also crackling good, as evidenced by a hilarious sequence set in a graveyard involving reanimated corpses that can answer exactly five questions before they’re dead again. It’s a scene worthy of a Monty Python movie, pulled off with great panache.

Still, the most valuable asset in this film is the cast. Pine and Rodriguez have terrific buddy-movie chemistry, while the young actors Smith and Lillis are excellent in their respective roles and have their own vibe, including the possibility of romance between Simon and Doric. In a relatively limited role, Rege-Jean Page effortlessly steals every scene he’s in, while Head is legit terrifying as Sofina and Grant does his Hugh Grant thing as the ludicrous and terrible Forge Fitzwilliam. This isn’t the first time someone has attempted an adaptation of Dungeons & Dragons, but it’s by far the best. 

Copyright 2022 Chicago Sun-Times

PHOTO COURTESY IMDB

ORGANICS

Brought to you by Mayor Jason Gibbs, Mayor Pro Tem Cameron Smyth, Councilwoman Marsha McLean, Councilmember Bill Miranda and Councilmember Laurene Weste.

GARDENING

Time to Spring Into Action in Your Garden

If you do nothing else in early spring, plant a row of salad greens. Sow them in a big pot, in multipaks for transplanting, or directly in the garden. Wherever you plant your seeds, the rewards will be well worth the minutes spent sowing them!

Salad Greens and More

The lengthening days of spring will prompt plants of all kinds to grow, though the soils may not be quite warm enough for germination. Take advantage of raised beds and containers, where the soil will be warmer than the ground. You can even sow seeds of lettuce and other greens in containers indoors, then move them out once they germinate.

Sow greens such as arugula, lettuce and mizuna directly in the garden or in containers. For baby greens, sprinkle seed sparingly in wide rows, so that seeds fall about an inch apart and cover them lightly with soil.

Start harvesting the young leaves with scissors when they grow to about 4 inches tall, leaving the growing tip intact. You can usually get about three cuttings from a planting.

To grow full heads of lettuce, thin your seedlings when they about 2 inches tall so that they stand 4 to 6 inches apart. Or you can start them indoors

and transplant them into the garden. Harvest alternate heads small, allowing the others to grow large.

Peas germinate well in cool soil, but beware of heavy soils and wet conditions, as the seeds may rot. Compost, added in spring or fall, will improve drainage. Sow peas directly in the soil, as they do not transplant well.

Almost all peas require some support. Set up supports or trellises at the time of planting. This can be a simple as putting sturdy branches in the ground 2 feet apart, or planting your peas near an exist-

ing fence. You can also create a simple bamboo and string trellis. Plant seeds about 2 inches apart and an inch deep. Generally, peas do not require fertilizer, or even thinning. Don’t allow the soil to dry out, especially once flowers and pods start to develop.

Spinach must be planted early if you want to get a spring crop, as it does not tolerate heat. Be sure to mix compost into the planting row prior to sowing. Plant seeds about an inch apart, thinning seedlings to stand 3 to 5 inches apart, and side dress your plants with an organic fertilizer when they approach a harvestable size. Spinach can be harvested leaf by leaf until it begins to bolt. At that point, cut the whole plant at the base. Or, cut the leaves when they reach a height of 4-5 inches, leaving 1-inch crowns to re-grow.

Asian greens and radishes are fast and easy spring growers. Sow seeds directly in the soil in rows and begin harvesting in as little as a month. Thinning is essential for these plants, as they will promptly bolt if too crowded. Radishes should be thinned to stand 2 inches apart; bok choy and tatsoi should be 6 to 8 inches apart.

There are plenty of other vegetables suitable for spring sowing, including Carrots, Beets, Turnips, Swiss Chard, Kale and Brassicas of all types. (Home Garden Seed Association) 

Almost all peas require some support. Set up supports or trellises at the time of planting.

Six Steps to Help Manage Your Blood Pressure

High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, affects nearly half of adults in the United States, and only about 1 in 4 with this condition have it under control, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Hypertension can be dangerous and in many cases, fatal. In 2020, it was a primary or contributing cause of more than 670,000 deaths nationwide. Medical experts say that controlling your blood pressure is possible and it starts with having the right information.

“Nearly half of all American adults have high blood pressure, and many don’t even know it. High blood pressure is a ‘silent killer,’ often having no overt symptoms, but increases the likelihood of heart attack, stroke and other serious health risks. I urge you to know your numbers and make the simple lifestyle changes that can help you control your blood pressure

and live a long and healthy life,” says Jack Resneck Jr., M.D., president of the American Medical Association (AMA).

To get on the right track, consider these tips and insights from the AMA:

Know your numbers Hypertension is diagnosed when your systolic blood pressure is greater than 130 mmHg or your average diastolic blood pressure is greater than 80 mmHg. Visit ManageYourBP.org to better understand your numbers.

Monitor blood pressure Once you learn your blood pressure numbers, take and keep regular records using an at-home blood pressure monitor.

For an accurate reading, the CDC says to sit with your back supported for 5 minutes before starting and wait at least 30 minutes after drinking or eating a meal. You should also avoid stimulants for at least 30 minutes beforehand, as the CDC says that smok-

ing and drinking alcohol or caffeine can elevate your blood pressure. If you take medication for hypertension, measure your blood pressure before your dose. Share your numbers with your health care provider. Eat right Reduce your intake of processed foods, especially those with added sodium and sugar. Eat less red meat and processed meats, and add more plant-based foods, such as vegetables, fruits, nuts, seeds and olive oil to your diet.

Also, reduce your consumption of sugar-sweetened beverages and drink more water instead. Drinking sugary beverages, even 100% fruit juices, is associated with a higher all-cause mortality risk, according to a study published in JAMA Network Open. Drink alcohol only in moderation

If consuming alcohol, do so in moderation as defined by the U.S. Dietary Guidelines for Americans -- up to one drink per day for women and two

drinks per day for men, and only by adults of legal drinking age.

Be more physically active Do at least 150 minutes a week of moderate-intensity activity, or 75 minutes a week of vigorous-intensity activity. Be sure to include a mix of cardiovascular exercise, strength training and flexibility. Obtain guidance from your doctor if you aren’t sure if it is safe for you to exercise.

Maintain a healthy weight If you are overweight, losing as little as 5 to 10 pounds may help lower your blood pressure. Consult your doctor about safe ways to maintain a healthy weight.

“Unmanaged hypertension can have life-altering consequences,” says Dr. Resneck. “The good news is that there are many ways you can take control of your blood pressure and your health.” (SPT) 

HOME

How to Make Homes

Safer From Fires

Over a five-year period beginning in 2015 and 2019, fire departments across the United States responded to roughly 347,000 home structure fires per year. That data, courtesy of the National Fire Protection Association, underscores the significance of home fire protection measures.

Smoke detectors are a key component of fire protection, but there’s much more homeowners can do to protect themselves, their families, their belongings, and their homes from structure fires.

Routinely inspect smoke detectors.

Smoke detectors can only alert residents to a fire if they’re working properly. Battery-powered smoke detectors won’t work if the batteries die. Routine smoke detector checkups can ensure the batteries still have juice and that the devices themselves are still functioning properly.

Test alarms to make sure the devices are functioning and audible in nearby rooms. Install additional detectors as necessary so alarms and warnings can be heard in every room of the house.

Hire an electrician to audit your home.

Electricians can inspect a home and identify any issues that could make the home more vulnerable to fires. Ask electricians to look over every part of the house, including attics and crawl spaces.

Oft-overlooked areas like attics and crawl spaces pose a potentially significant fire safety threat, as data from the Federal Emergency Management Association indicates that 13% of electrical fires begin in such spaces.

Audit the laundry room.

The laundry room is another potential source of home structure fires. NFPA data indicates around 3% of home structure fires begin in laundry rooms each year.

Strategies to reduce the risk of laundry room fires include leaving room for laundry to tumble in washers and dryers; routinely cleaning lint screens to avoid the buildup of dust, fiber and

lint, which the NFPA notes are often the first items to ignite in fires linked to dryers; and ensuring the outlets washing machines and dryers are plugged into can handle the voltage such appliances require.

It’s also a good idea to clean dryer exhaust vents and ducts every year. Look outward as well.

Though the majority of home fires begin inside, the NFPA reports that 4% of such fires begin outside the home. Homeowners can reduce the risk of such fires by ensuring all items that use fire, including grills and firepits, are always used at least 10 feet away from the home.

Never operate a grill beneath eaves, and do not use grills on decks. Never leave children unattended around firepits, as all it takes is a single mistake and a moment for a fire to become unwieldy.

Sweat the small stuff.

Hair dryers, hair straighteners, scented candles, clothes irons, and holiday decorations are some additional home fire safety hazards. Never leave candles burning in empty rooms and make sure beauty and grooming items like dryers, straighteners and irons are unplugged and placed in a safe place to cool down when not in use.

Fire departments respond to hundreds of thousands of home fires each year. Some simple strategies and preventive measures can greatly reduce the risk that a fire will overtake your home. (MC) 

HISTORY

Continued from page 7

Donner Memorial State Park #134

12593 Donner Pass Road, Truckee 96161

Info www.parks.ca.gov/?page_

id=503

The site of the infamous Donner Party Camp was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1961 for its significance in the settlement of the West. A wagon train bound for California became stranded in the mountains in the winter of 1846-1847. After a four-month ordeal, only 47 of 89 members survived.

Jack London State Historic Park

#743

2400 London Ranch Road, Glen Ellen, 95442

Info www.parks.ca.gov/?page_

id=478

Designated a National Historic Landmark in 1962, author Jack London’s Wolf House (1913), his wife Charmain’s House of Happy Walls

(1919) and their graves are at London’s Beauty Ranch. London was the popular author of Call of the Wild (1903), The Sea Wolf (1904) and White Fang (1906).

Marshall Monument #143

Marshall Gold Discovery State

Historic Park

310 Back St., Coloma 95613

Info www.parks.ca.gov/?page_

id=484

This site, purchased by the state in

LANDMARKS

Continued from page 15

1887, commemorates James Marshall who discovered gold in 1848 on the South Fork of the American River just below Sutter’s sawmill. His find started the gold rush.

Old Custom House #1

Monterey State Historic Park

1 Custom House Plaza, Monterey 93940

Info www.nps.gov/nr/travel/american_latino_ heritage/old_custom_house.html

One of the oldest buildings in California it was one of the first historic sites to be designated a National Historic Landmark in 1960. The Mexican government constructed the two-story adobe building in 1827 to collect custom duties. Commodore John D. Sloat raised the American Flag over the building marking the official takeover of California by the U.S. military.

Old Folsom Powerhouse #633

Folsom Powerhouse State Historic Park

9980 Greenback Lane, Folsom 95630

Info www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=501

Designated in 1981, the Folsom Powerhouse provided the first long distance transmission of electric power in 1895. The open-

ing of the powerhouse was celebrated with a “grand electric carnival.” parade and 100 gun salute. Vintage generators can still be seen.

Old Sacramento State Historic Park #812

I Street, Sacramento 95814

Info www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=497

Old Sacramento is a cluster of more than 50 historic buildings that includes the 1849 Eagle Theatre; 1853 B.F. Hastings Building, which was once home to the California Supreme Court; and the 1855 Big Four Building. The area was named an historic landmark in 1965 because it was the western terminus of the Pony Express, first transcontinental railway and the transcontinental telegraph.

Watts Towers of Simon Rodia #993 1727 E 107th St., Los Angeles 90002 Info www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=613

Watts Towers is probably the country’s best known work of folk art, both sculpture and architecture. It was created by Italian immigrant Simon Rodia over a period of 33 years. He used simple hand tools and cast-off materials such as glass, pottery pieces, shells and tile.

Watts Towers Landmark #993

PHOTO COURTESY VISIT CALIFORNIA

Fun, Effective Outdoor Exercises For Seniors

The benefits of spending time in the great outdoors are significant. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, spending time outdoors may improve mental health and help to reduce stress, and the vitamin D the body absorbs while outside can have a positive effect on blood cells and the immune system.

Seniors can benefit from the great outdoors as much as anyone. Vitamin D helps the body absorb calcium, which strengthens bones. That’s especially beneficial for seniors, as the National Council on Aging notes that bone density often decreases after age 50, which can increase the risk of fractures. That’s especially so in women over the age of 50, as a 2021 report from Amgen, Inc., indicated women can lose up to 20% of their bone density within five to seven years of menopause.

Spending time in the great outdoors also provides a social benefit, encouraging individuals from all walks of life, including seniors, to get out of their homes and spend time with other people.

With so much to gain from spending time outside, seniors can consider these three outdoor exercises as they seek to maintain or improve their overall health.

Walking

Walking is free and effective. In fact, WebMD notes that a brisk 30-minute walk can improve blood flow, contribute to a stronger heart, strengthen bones, and even help people sleep better at night. In addition, a 2022 study published in the journal JAMA Neurology found that people between the ages of 40 and 79 who walked about 9,800 steps per day were 51% less likely to develop dementia than people who didn’t walk much at all.

Cycling

Riding a bike is both fun and a great form of outdoor exercise. Though many studies regarding the health effects of cycling have looked at the value of riding a bike to work, a scenario that does not apply to re-

tirees, the results of such studies still offer insight into just how valuable it can be to ride a bike. For example, a 2020 study published in the journal The Lancet found that people who cycled to work were 24% less likely to die of heart disease and 11% less likely to develop cancer. Seniors, whether they are still working or retired, can incorporate cycling into their daily routines and enjoy all the fun and health benefits that riding a bike provides.

Hiking

Hiking is a bit more strenuous than walking, particularly when individuals choose to traverse steep and/ or rocky terrain. WebMD notes that hiking after age 60 can help people reduce their risk of falls and fractures; lower their risk for a host of ailments, including coronary heart disease, colon cancer and diabetes; reduce blood pressure, even in adults who have already been diagnosed with hypertension; and maintain healthy bones and joints. Hiking is not a one-size-fits-all activity, so seniors, especially those who would characterize themselves as novice hikers, are urged to speak with their physicians prior to hiking trails that are not flat.

Seniors can consider these three fun activities and others as they answer the call of the great outdoors. Walking, cycling and hiking offer a great reason to get out of the house and reap the health-related benefits of spending time outside. (MC) 

If you or someone you know is experiencing hearing loss, contact Advanced Audiology to schedule your FREE hearing screening.

SOLUTIONS

READER LETTERS

Ski Mask and Chainsaw

Congratulations to The Signal for printing “New study links nose temperature and immune response” by Drs. Elizabeth Ko and Eve Glazier (health page, March 21), providing a public service announcement of sorts for the literate English-speaking people of northern Los Angeles County.

Unfortunately, these people are exiting winter and may not benefit from the PSA until the advent of next winter.

My earlier letter to the editor on the same subject was also a tad later than winter’s onset.

Drs. Ko and Glazier did suggest possible countermeasures to the unhealthiness of a cold nose in line with my earlier letter to the editor, noting the possible benefits of wearing a vented N95 mask in cold environments and my experimental experiences with masking.

I also seem to recall Australia and New Zealand having a very mild winter flu season during their draconian mask enforcement time period.

People in the Southern Hemisphere are of course enjoying fall so they would benefit from countermeasures to maintain the warmth of their nose linings when exposed to bacteria and viruses.

After a long period of government-mandated masking the general population of our area, Australia and New Zealand would probably be very reluctant to be masked again, regardless of the possible benefits.

This new study presents an opening for entrepreneurs hawking nose-warming devices on late-night television, though obviously not described as masks — although wearing a ski mask and accessorizing with a chainsaw would probably guarantee minimal exposure to diseased individuals or anyone else.

Gregory Whitney Newhall

Novelty: Water in a Lake!

A wonderful positive from all the rain we’ve had: Elizabeth Lake in Lake Hughes, dry since 2013, is no longer a dry lake. Wahoo!

Phyllis Fitzsimmons Valencia

ETHICALLY SPEAKING

A Worldview of Living Hope

By David Hegg

Sometimes we use words so often and in such far-ranging contexts that we actually forget what they really mean. Of interest to me today is the word “hope.” We hear quite a bit about hope these days, and it has even made its way into the mainstream of political dialogue and campaigning. Everyone wants to have hope, and every politician and societal leader wants to offer a strategy for creating and maintaining it for us. Presidents do it, legislatures do it, corporate leaders do it, coaches do it, and of course, we clergy are all about doing it. But what is hope, really?

Hope comes in two flavors: First, there is the wish of hope contained in statements like, “I sure hope the Dodgers win the World Series this year.” Regardless of your opinion of the Blue Crew, or of baseball and sports in general, we all recognize this as the kind of “hope” that is nothing more than a wishful dream. This isn’t the kind of hope that sustains the individual or a society through tough times.

But, of course, there is a second understanding of hope. This hope is a radical commitment to a certain set of convictions that provide a compelling reason for traveling on through adverse circumstances in pursuit of a future that simply must be attained.

This hope, packaged in a season’s goals, is what sustains a sports team through injury and loss to finally win the championship. It is what sustains an army through impossible conditions and the valley of death to at last vanquish the enemy and bring in peace. It is what also brings purpose, balance and a persevering courage to the individual who has come to recognize that life is bigger than day-to-day circumstances, and success awaits those who finish the race with honor.

I am sad about two things in our country today. First, I am sad that so many seem to have no real hope. They live in a world of wish dreams, expecting that life owes them success and happiness even though the only value they’ve developed is the conviction that they deserve happiness. Consequently, they are tossed around by every wind of theory and fad that whistles down the mountain from Hollywood, the best-seller shelves, or the magazine racks at the checkout stand. Without any real hope, they have no permanence, no ambition, and no purpose other than to feel good one more day.

And, as I sit here writing, I’m sure that the confusion and frustration we have endured at the hands of Mr. COVID and his enforcers have left us feeling even more hopeless that we could even grab a hopeful seat on the bus of progress.

But I am equally sad about those who are committed

to a set of values, and the hope springing from it, but who have never been intellectually honest enough to examine the foundations of that hope. Here I am talking to those who claim there is no place for God in the modern world. In the academic area known as epistemology, the focus of study is simply “how do we know what we know?”

Some, known as evidentialists, insist that knowledge must grow out of hard, cold, undeniable facts. Others, labeled pre-suppositionalists, argue not from evidence precisely, but from the coherence of their system. These last might say, “If you grant me my presuppositions, I’ll show you how my system can explain reality better than any other. In other words, my view works in real life.”

Those who deny God’s existence, either academically through argument or practically through a casual disregard for God in their daily life, largely do so without an honest appraisal of the foundation of their own views. They cannot offer cohesive answers as to why evil exists, where virtue comes from, or most importantly, why anyone should have any lasting hope. They don’t have the evidence, and neither does their system work in real life. If this life is all there is, and it doesn’t matter how we live (since there is no accountability to any higher power), and human existence is just a random set of circumstances, and more and more chaos and tragedy are closing in, then any real hope turns out to be a wish dream, and maybe those who live for the moment are on the right track after all. Any worldview flowing from a less-than-honest appraisal of its foundations isn’t hope, it’s delusion.

Today — Resurrection Day — millions of Christ-followers around the world rejoice in the celebration of a great historical fact. Jesus Christ, crucified, dead and buried, rolled away the stone and walked out of death. And in so doing, he brought hope, a living hope.

As an evidentialist, I know the facts that have continued to keep this truth central to millions despite the perennial opposition of atheists and others for the past 2,000 years. Apparently, God’s truth is impossible to kill.

But even more importantly, as a pre-suppositionalist, I know that the worldview stemming from the empty grave is not only able to explain the hardest aspects of our reality, but also able to sustain the heart through the circumstances of this life. And that means there is a living hope, bringing purpose and understanding in this life, and the settled assurance of peace in the next.

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

Let's Clean Up Santa Clarita Together!

Keep Santa Clarita green and participate with your friends and family in the Neighborhood Cleanup Event. Visit one of the three drive-thru locations between 8:00 and 11:00 a.m. to pick up trash bags and a free bag of mulch – while supplies last.