Sunday Signal 060924

Personalized Touches for a Residential Refresh

Your home is an expression of you, your personality and your lifestyle. When it comes to personalizing your home’s aesthetic, try leaning into your senses to inspire change within your space. Inspiration can be found everywhere around you — from taking cues from Mother Nature to “shopping” your own house or, with a little help from Air Wick, finding and incorporating your home’s signature scent. Give yourself a residential refresh with these tips:

Rearrange Living Spaces

Breathing fresh air into a room doesn’t always require a complete overhaul, or even any construction or DIY projects. Sometimes all you need is a little rearranging. Shifting furniture to better suit your needs or let more natural light in can significantly improve the space’s aesthetic.

Additionally, the items you currently own are most reflective of your style; try “shopping” your own house by repurposing items from other areas or rooms to give them a fresh feel. When decor pieces are overused in one spot, they may feel brand new in a different space. These are practical and cost-effective tactics to create a new and inviting space for both you and any guests entering your home.

Introduce

Plants and Greenery

When sourcing your design inspiration from nature, adding greenery is an inherent way to bring in the beauty and freshness of the great outdoors. To personalize your home with plants, visit a nursery or local flower shop and choose ones that are appealing to you based on their shape, color or size. Live plants offer multiple benefits, like naturally

purifying the air, and studies have shown numerous therapeutic benefits of spending time with nature. Therefore, designing with natural elements, like house plants or flowers, can bring a sense of serenity into your home.

Find Your ‘Scentscape’

A home upgrade rooted in nature includes more than just what you can see and feel, it also includes engaging the sense of smell. One of the latest home decor trends, “scentscaping,” is growing in popularity as a way for individuals to enhance the ambiance of their homes through tailored scent.

“Scent is an often-overlooked aspect of design,” said Egypt Sherrod, HGTV personality who is both an interior designer and real estate broker, and Air Wick partner. “People tour homes and experience spaces with all their senses. It adds a new layer to home personalization, as an authentic fragrance experience often heightens the aura of your space beyond its physical layout. Scentscaping is the perfect way to add a bespoke vibe for your home that reflects your personal style, in turn creating a welcoming atmosphere.”

With innovative devices designed to deliver carefully blended scents like Air Wick’s Advanced PlugIn Scented Oil, you can enjoy long-lasting pulses of scents inspired by nature in the comfort of your home for up to 60 days on low setting. With anti-fading technology, an on-demand boost button and adjustable intensity settings, you’ll notice the fragrances from the first drop to the last.

Update Colors

Introducing color to a room can transform its

look, and the scale of change is up to you. You might repaint the entire space, simply paint an accent wall or even just spruce up a corner with a pop of color. Incorporating accessories or decorative elements with new colors can also create some variety, such as including pops of seasonal-inspired colors in artwork and textiles.

Switch Out Light Fixtures

A room’s lighting is an important detail for personalizing the type of mood and ambiance you are trying to achieve. Swapping out light fixtures for dimmers, for example, can create a brand new atmosphere, allowing you to adjust the light to the time of day and for your intended experience. Consider updating old lighting fixtures with new ones to enhance the presence of natural light or changing the bulb wattage to further impact the mood.

Embrace the Scent of the Season

If you tend to make frequent edits to your home’s design, you may also find the idea of experimenting with different fragrances appealing. A shortterm scent can be ideal for seasonal swaps, like trading fresh spring blooms for sweet summer citrus, for example. Lasting for up to 45 days on low setting, Air Wick’s Essential Mist Diffuser fills the room with a gentle, fragrant mist with natural essential oils so you can set it and forget it. Adjustable settings are included on the device, and the cordless and portable design allow it to blend seamlessly into any home decor.

Explore more inspiring ideas for incorporating a breath of fresh air into your home at airwick.us. (Family Features) 

By Michele E. Buttelman Signal Staff Writer

Father’s Day is Sunday, June 16. How will you celebrate dad this year? The inspiration for Father’s Day began in the early 1900s. After Sonora Smart Dodd’s mother died during childbirth, she and her siblings were raised by her father, a Civil War veteran named William Smart.

To express her gratitude for all her father did for her, Dodd initiated a day designated to “instill the same love and reverence for the father as is the mother’s portion,” Dodd wrote in a 1910 newspaper article. The first Father’s Day was celebrated June 19, 1910. June was chosen because it was Dodd’s father’s birthday month.

Father’s Day became a national holiday in 1972, when President Richard Nixon signed legislation designating the third Sunday of June as Father’s Day. Celebrate with Steak

What dad doesn’t love a good steak dinner? Fathers in the Santa Clarita Valley are in luck because the SCV has many excellent restaurants where dad can enjoy a Father’s Day steak dinner of his dreams. Backwoods Inn

17846 Sierra Highway, Canyon Country 91351 (661) 252-5522

El Trocadero Mesquite Steakhouse 24274 Main St., Newhall 91321 eltrocaderosteakhouse.com

Larsen’s Steakhouse

24320 Town Center Drive, Valencia 91355 larsensrestaurants.com

Salt Creek Grille

24415 Town Center Drive, Valencia 91355 www.saltcreekgrille.com/valencia/ Outback Steakhouse

25261 The Old Road, Newhall 91381 locations.outback.com/california/newhall/25261the-old-rd.

Brunch is Not Just for Moms

Le Chene French Cuisine

12625 Sierra Highway, Santa Clarita 91390 https://lechene.com/

Le Chêne French Cuisine wants pamper fathers of all age with a special, meal on Father’s Day. The Father’s Day Brunch will feature a number of father-friendly entrées including Eggs Benedict, Beef

Celebrate

Bourguignon, Swordfish, Filet Mignon, and more. And if dad is more a dinner person, Le Chêne will also be offering the regular dinner menu on Father’s Day.

Saddle Peak Lodge

419 Cold Canyon Road, Calabasas 91302 www.saddlepeaklodge.com

Saddle Peak Lodge is offering a special Father’s Day Brunch, with seatings available from 10:30 a.m. until 1:45 p.m. Cost: $85 for adults, $55 children, (separate menus).

Fun with Dad

Give your dad the gift of your time and spend a fun day with your father on Father’s Day 2024. Buy dad a round of golf or take him hiking or biking. Here’s a few other suggestions:

Fireside Nights: A Celebration of Fathers Vasquez Rocks Natural Area and Nature Center 10700 W. Escondido Canyon Road, Aqua Dulce 91390

Vasquez Rocks Natural Area and Nature Center is the place for Fireside Nights: A Celebration of Fathers on Sunday, June 16 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. The fun includes sing-alongs, animal meetand-greets, storytelling, crafts, s’mores and more. Families may bring their own snacks/picnics. No pre-registration is required.

Father’s Day Rides

The Zimmerman Automobile Driving Museum 610 Lairport St., El Segundo 90245 automobiledrivingmuseum.org/event/dad2024/

Sunday, June 16 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., come celebrate Father’s Day at the Automobile Driving Museum. Take a ride in a classic car around the block in El Segundo, chauffeured by a knowledgeable and experienced docent from the Automobile Driving Museum.

After your ride, enjoy some beer tasting with dad. Beer tasting is included with admission. Tickets are $15 for adults, $10 for seniors age 62 and older and $5 for teens 11-17. Age 10 and under are free.

Take Dad to a Ballgame

Los Angeles Dodgers vs. Kansas City Royals Dodger Stadium, 1000 Vin Scully Ave., Los Angeles 90012

www.mlb.com/dodgers/tickets/promotions Sunday, June 16 at 1:30 p.m. Enjoy a day at Dodger Stadium cheering on Shohei Ohtani and

the Los Angeles Dodgers as they take on the Kansas City Royals. Beer, Dodger dogs and nachos in a baseball helmet, it doesn’t get better than that! Even better, dad will receive a free Father’s Day Dodgers straw beach hat on Beach Hat Day. Children (ages 5-14) will be invited to run the bases after the game.

Rodeo Drive Concours d’Elegance 2024 347 N Rodeo Drive, Beverly Hills 90210 www.rodeodrive-bh.com/events/concours-delegance-2024

The 29th Annual Rodeo Drive Concours d’Elegance 2024 event will be held Sunday, June 16 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Admission is free. Fathers, families and car enthusiasts of all ages are invited to enjoy an up-close look at some of the world’s most exotic and expensive vehicles.

This year’s event will host a full slate of incredible vehicles lining Beverly Hills’ most famous street between Wilshire Boulevard and Santa Monica Boulevard. With a special celebration of hypercars and supercars, see cars from McLaren, Pagani, Czinger and more, plus race cars, classics and custom-built showstoppers.

Father’s Day Classics by the Sea Channel Islands Maritime Museum 3900 Bluefin Circle, Oxnard 93035 www.cimmvc.org/event-details/fathers-dayclassics-by-the-sea

Sunday, June 16 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. the museum will offer dads the chance to see woodies and other custom classic cars, enjoy a blacksmith demonstration, board a tallship, listen to live music and eat at on-site food trucks. Admission is free for this outdoor event. Visit the website to RSVP for this event.

Father’s Day BBQ

Aquarium of the Pacific

100 Aquarium Way, Long Beach 90802 www.aquariumofpacific.org/events/info/fathers_ day_bbq/

The Aquarium of the Pacific is hosting a Father’s Day BBQ on Sunday, June 16 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Dad will enjoy a BBQ lunch served on the outdoor veranda dining area with picturesque views of Rainbow Harbor.

Tickets also include all-day Aquarium admission. Cost: $84 for adults, $55 for kids ages 3-11. Buy tickets online before they sell out. 

NEWS FEATURE

CALIFORNIA STATE PARKS WEEK

JUNE 12-16

By Michele E. Buttelman Signal Staff Writer

The third annual California State Parks Week will be held June 12-16. This year’s theme is “This is Where You Live.” State Parks week is presented by California State Parks, Save the Redwoods League, Parks California and California State Parks Foundation.

More than 200 special community events will be scheduled at parks across the state during the week.

Through special in-person community events and virtual programming, this week-long event celebrates California’s 280 state parks and the people who visit and help protect these iconic places.

“Our shared parks are places where everyone can connect with nature and find inspiration and joy,” said Armando Quintero, director of California State Parks.

“The week is a fun way to celebrate the wonder and sense of community that the outdoors pro-

vides. It also celebrates the diverse natural and cultural heritage preserved within California’s 280 state parks. This week also reminds Californians that ‘This is where you live.’ All Californians deserve to enjoy these public outdoor spaces.”

Why California State Parks Week?

California’s state parks preserve and protect the state’s natural and cultural history.

“For the third annual California State Parks Week, we are once again celebrating wellness, stewardship, community and adventure,” said Rachel Norton, executive director of California State Parks Foundation.

“This week presents a special opportunity for both residents and visitors to California to fully immerse themselves in the beauty and significance of the state’s protected spaces, including its state parks. By engaging with these natural and cultural treasures, individuals have the chance to develop a deeper connection to the land and its history.”

California State Parks protect the best of the state’s natural and cultural history; more than 340 miles of coastline; the tallest, largest and among the oldest trees in the world and deserts, lakes, rivers and beaches. There are more than 5,200 miles of trails and 15,000 campsites, prehistoric and historic archeological sites, ghost towns, historic homes and monuments, all waiting to be explored.

L.A.

County State Parks

There are nearly two dozen state parks located in Los Angeles County, including two in the Santa Clarita Valley.

Castaic Lake State Recreation Area 32132 Castaic Lake Drive, Castaic 91384

Placerita Canyon State Park 19152 Placerita Canyon Road, Newhall 91321

Other L.A. County State Parks include:

• Antelope Valley California Poppy Reserve State Natural Reserve

• Antelope Valley Indian Museum State Historic Park

• Arthur B. Ripley Desert Woodland State Park

• Dockweiler State Beach

• Kenneth Hahn State Recreation Area

• Leo Carrillo State Park

• Los Angeles State Historic Park

• Los Encinos State Historic Park

• Malibu Creek State Park

• Malibu Lagoon State Beach

• Pio Pico State Historic Park

• Point Dume State Beach

• Rio de Los Angeles State Park State Recreation Area

• Robert H. Meyer Memorial State Beach

• Saddleback Butte State Park

Castaic Lake State Recreation Area. ©ADOBE STOCK

Enjoy a walk in the park. Los Angeles State Historic Park is one of nearly two dozen state parks in Los Angeles County. It is located in the known territory of the Tongva people. One large Tongva village, Yang Na, sat within a mile of today’s park. PHOTO COURTESY CALIFORNIA STATE PARKS

‘This is Where You Live’

• Santa Monica State Beach

• Santa Susana Pass State Historic Park

• Topanga State Park

• Verdugo Mountains Park Property

• Watts Towers of Simon Rodia State Historic Park

• Will Rogers State Beach

• Will Rogers State Historic Park

LA County Themed Day Events

Explore New Experiences

Wednesday, June 12 — 5:30 p.m.

The Secrets of the Oak Woodlands — Guided Hike at Malibu Creek State Park

Come be inspired by the beautiful oak trees at Malibu Creek State Park as we discuss their incredible ecological importance. This guided hike is rated as easy-moderate, is three miles long, includes a rock crossing, and has a 300-foot elevation climb.

Nourish Your Health and Well-Being

Thursday, June 13

Virtual Guided Meditation at Point Dume Natural Preserve, 10 a.m.

Mindfulness Hike at Santa Susana Pass State Park Amidst La La Land’s cacophony of noise, bright lights, and traffic, the Simi Hills are an oasis. Our mindfulness hike grounds us in the present by connecting with nature and is designed to teach you some simple techniques to take back out into the world. The hike contains four segments. The first focuses on sound, the second on scent, the third on touch and the fourth integrates all of these senses.

Sunset Yoga at the Adamson House - Malibu

Lagoon State Beach, 6:30 p.m.

The Adamson House has the most amazing lawns for picnicking and relaxation. They are also perfect for yoga! Come join us for an all-levels, all-ages yoga practice led by one of our Adamson House docents!

Support Climate Resilience

Friday, June 14 — 9 a.m.

Beach Cleanup at Leo Carrillo State Park

Participants will be equipped with gloves and trash bags, fostering a collaborative effort to enhance environmental stewardship. Representatives from the Natural Resources department will host an informational booth, highlighting the diverse ecosystems present within the park.

Celebrate Community and Culture

Saturday, June 15

Los Encinos State Park Oak and Acorn Creative Journaling Festival, 10 a.m.

Los Encinos State Historic Park, located in a bustling urban area, is a free park aiming to strengthen connections with the local community. To achieve this, they have initiated a campaign to collect stories from community members about their park experiences. The Oak and Acorn Creative Journaling Festival will celebrate the culmination of several weeks of creative journaling workshops, which guided participants in journaling techniques, weaving connections to the park through the themes of nature, culture, and history.

Native American Arts and Crafts Celebration at Antelope Valley Indian Museum, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Hands-on activities for visitors to experience the various arts and crafts Native peoples practiced

in the past and how Indigenous peoples maintain aspects of their culture through traditional arts and crafts today will be in Joshua Cottage. Tours of the Antelope Valley Indian Museum will also be available to the public.

Care for Our Shared Lands

Sunday, June 16 — 10 a.m.

Malibu Creek State Park Trail Cleanup & “Litter Getters” Event

Join us as we care for Malibu Creek State Park! Everything that makes its way into Malibu Creek eventually ends up in the ocean. Let’s work together to keep the trash out of our waterway! 

California State Park Passes

There are several different passes available including:

California State Park

Adventure Pass Free entry to fourth graders and their families at 54 select parks.

California State Library Parks Pass State library patrons can check out a pass for free vehicle day-use access.

Various Annual Passes Ranging from $50 to $195.

For a complete list of events and how to participate, visit CAStateParksWeek.org.

Fort Tejon State Historic Park. PHOTO COURTESY CALIFORNIA STATE PARKS

On Saturday, June 15 California State Parks Week celebrates community and culture with the Native American Arts and Crafts Celebration at Antelope Valley Indian Museum State Historic Park. PHOTO COURTESY CALIFORNIA STATE PARKS

FROM THE CITY MANAGER

Stay Safe on the Trails This Summer!

By Ken Striplin Santa Clarita City Manager

As the temperatures rise and schools are out for summer break, many families and outdoor enthusiasts turn to our 13,000 acres of open space trails to enjoy a day out in nature. However, hiking during the summer months can present its own set of challenges. From scorching heat to run-ins with wildlife, our residents must prioritize their safety to ensure a fun day on the trails. Whether you are going on an outdoor adventure with your family or friends, or taking a scenic tour on your mountain bike, be sure to follow these safety tips on your next trip.

ture-wicking fabrics and light colors. Wearing a hat, sunglasses and sunscreen with a high SPF will help shield yourself from harmful UV rays. Don’t forget to wear sturdy hiking shoes or boots with good traction to handle uneven trails without slipping.

Summer hikes often mean high temperatures and increased exertion, which makes you susceptible to dehydration. Be sure to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water before, during and after your hike. Always carry extra water as well as a snack, and if you’re planning on a longer journey, consider electrolyte-replenishing drinks. If you’re hiking with children and teens, ensure they drink water regularly to prevent heat-related illnesses.

and experience, and take breaks as needed to rest and refuel. Pace yourself and listen to your body— if you start feeling fatigued or unwell, it’s okay to turn back or take a shorter route.

Before hitting the trail, take precautions to secure your vehicle and protect your belongings. Always park in designated parking areas and lock your car doors and windows to deter theft. Avoid leaving valuables, such as electronics, wallets or purses, visible inside the vehicle. Instead, stow them in the trunk or out of sight to reduce the risk of break-ins. Choose lightweight, breathable clothing that offers protection from the sun. Opt for mois-

While you’re out on the trail, remember that you are in the home of our local wildlife like rattlesnakes, bobcats and coyotes. If you’re going on a run or hiking while listening to music, only keep one headphone in so you can listen for warning sounds such as a snake rattle. Be mindful of your surroundings as wildlife can easily blend in with their environments. Stay safe by scanning the ground as you walk along the trail.

Whether you’re an avid hiker or a novice, it’s essential to know your limits and hike within your abilities. Choose trails that match your fitness level

Hiking in Santa Clarita offers endless opportunities for fun adventures and exploration, but it’s essential to prioritize safety every step of the way. By planning ahead, staying hydrated, hiking with a friend and being mindful of the weather and wildlife, we can all enjoy a safe and memorable outdoor experience. So, lace up your hiking boots, hit the trails and enjoy our open spaces! To learn more about our open spaces and trail locations, visit HikeSantaClarita.com.

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

Bring Joy to Mealtimes by Dining Together

The renowned Mediterranean Diet, celebrated for its myriad benefits, has been rated as a top diet in the world for years. Recognizing the benefits of the foods included in the Mediterranean Diet, it’s important to broaden the understanding beyond its ingredients to embrace the elements of the Mediterranean lifestyle, which also contribute to these benefits. Essentially, it’s not just about what you eat; it’s also about how you enjoy it and with whom you share the experience.

Nutrition, physical activity, sleep and togetherness comprise this balanced way of living, with preparing, eating and enjoying food together being key elements of the Mediterranean lifestyle. You can immerse yourself in the vibrant spirit of the Mediterranean lifestyle simply by inviting friends or family to gather around the table for a meallike a family favorite pasta dish.

The benefits of gathering around the table are abundant, ranging from fostering stronger connections and communication among family members to enhancing overall well-being. In fact, first-ofits-kind research conducted by researchers at the University of Minnesota and supported by Barilla, the world’s leading pasta maker, demonstrates that people experience greater happiness when they share meals with others, highlighting the importance of togetherness.

“Eating together is a joyful and important practice of the Mediterranean lifestyle that truly contributes to overall well-being,” said Michele Lefebvre, registered dietitian nutritionist and manager of nutrition and well-being at Barilla America. “As a traditional yet versatile food, pasta brings a sense of nostalgia to meals as people gather together around the table and connect in an impactful way.”

Visit barilla.com/recipes to discover more dishes that can help you follow the Mediterranean lifestyle.

Cellentani Caprese Pasta

Salad

Prep time 10 minutes

Cook time 15 minutes

Servings 7

1 box Barilla Protein+ Cellentani pasta

4 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, divided

2 pints grape tomatoes, mixed color, halved

4 tablespoons lemon juice

8 basil leaves, julienned

2 cups small mozzarella cheese balls, halved salt, to taste black pepper, to taste

Bring large pot of water to boil. Cook pasta according to package directions and drain. Drizzle pasta with 1 tablespoon olive oil and place on sheet tray to cool. Set aside.

In large bowl, combine tomatoes, lemon juice, basil, remaining olive oil and cheese. Season with salt and pepper, to taste. Add pasta and stir.

Linguine with Zucchini Carbonara

Prep time 5 minutes

Cook time 10 minutes

Servings 8 5 egg yolks

1 cup Pecorino Romano cheese, grated, divided 1/2 cup milk salt, to taste

1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil

1 medium zucchini, julienned

1 box Barilla Linguine

1 tablespoon fresh mint, chopped black pepper, to taste

Bring large pot of water to boil.

In bowl, mix egg yolks, 1/3 cup Pecorino Romano cheese and milk. Season with salt, to taste. Set aside.

In large skillet, heat olive oil and cook zucchini. Cook pasta according to package directions. Reserve 1/2 cup cooking water.

Mix pasta in pan with zucchini. Add egg yolk mixture and 2 tablespoons cooking water. Combine well.

Add remaining cheese and mint; mix. Season with salt and pepper, to taste. (Family Features) 

Cellentani Caprese Pasta Salad

Linguine with Zucchini Carbonara

ENTERTAINMENT

A Rousing, Thunderous and Fiery Dystopian Thrill Ride

By Richard Roeper Signal Contributing Writer

‘Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga’

 (out of four)

Warner Bros. presents a film directed by George Miller and written by Miller and Nico Lathouris. Rated R. In theaters.

And she will strike down upon thee with great vengeance and Furiosa anger ...

If you wondered (as I did) how Charlize Theron’s Imperator Furiosa from the 2015 action classic “Mad Max: Fury Road” came to become that one-armed, shaven-head, endlessly resourceful and utterly formidable badass warrior/crusader with the thousand-mile stare, that question is answered with authority in the pedal-to-the-floor “Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga.”

Sunday-Thursday, June 9-13,

dystopian thrill ride that only occasionally pauses to take a breather over a two-hour-and-28-minute run time. (It’s the longest of the five “Mad Max” movies, but never feels bloated or redundant.)

Filmed in Australia and bursting with creativity, from Miller’s nearly unmatchable directorial style to the orange-hued, desert wasteland cinematography by Simon Duggan to the crackling good stunt work to the impressive production design, editing, makeup and costuming, “Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga” is the very definition of that cliche about how some movies should be seen on the biggest screen possible, with the volume cranked up so loud you become completely immersed in its world.

a sadistic maniac hellbent on making everyone in the world share in his misery.

Though this direct prequel can’t match the sheer creative audacity and

heavy metal awesomeness of “Fury Road,” which was nominated for 10 Academy Awards and won six and is widely considered to be one of the all-time great action movies, it’s still a rousing and thunderous and fiery

The world’s favorite Bad Boys are back with their iconic mix of edge - of-your seat ac tion and outrageous comedy

Ru n Lo L a Ru n 25t h a n n i v e R s a Ry E Sun: 10:10 AM

Lola answers a call from her boyfriend Manni, a small-time courier for a big-time gangster He has a problem

t h e Watc h e R s C Sun: 10:00 1:30 4:30 7:20; Mon to Thu: 1:30 4:30 7:20

Mina, a 28-year- old ar tist, gets stranded in an expansive, untouched forest in western Ireland

e z R a E Sun: 10:00 AM; Mon to Thu: 1:00 PM

A stand-up comic and his 11-year-old autistic son Ezra set off on a road trip while figuring out how to understand one another

F u R i o s a: a M a d M ax s ag a E Sun to Wed: 1:00 4:00 7:00; Thu: 1:00 4:00

As the world fell, young Furiosa is snatched from the Green Place of Many Mothers and falls into the hands of a great Biker Horde led by the Warlord Dementus

s i g h t C Sun: 10:00 AM

SIGHT is the inspiring true stor y that looks at what it means to see beyond one’s self

t h e g a R F i e L d M ov i e B Sun: 10:15 1:20 4:20 7:10; Mon to Thu: 1:20 4:20 7:10

After an unexpected reunion with his long-lost father - scruffy street cat Vic (voiced by Samuel L Jackson) - Gar field and his canine friend Odie are forced from their per fectly pampered life into joining Vic in a hilarious, high-stakes heist

i F B Sun: 10:10 1:10 4:20 7:10; Mon to Thu: 1:10 4:20 7:10

If is about a girl who discovers that she can see ever yone’s imaginar y friends - and what she does with that superpower

K i n g d o M o F t h e P L a n e t o F t h e a P e s C 1:00 3:50 7:00

Set several generations in the future following Caesar ’s reign a new tyrannical ape leader builds his empire

t h e Fa L L g u y C 1:00 4:20 7:10

He’s a stuntman, and like ever yone in the stunt community, he gets blown up, shot, crashed, thrown through windows and dropped from the highest of heights, all for our enter tainment

t h e s e c R e t Wo R L d o F a R R

W h e n

S U B; Wed: 7:00

t h e R e L e n t L e s s Pat R i ot Thu: 7:30 PM

In a brilliantly rendered opening sequence, the preteen Furiosa (Alyla Browne, who looks so much like a mini-Anya Taylor-Joy that it’s startling) is foraging for ripe fruit in a forest just outside the idyllic “Green Place” community when she is snatched up by a gang of ruthless bikers. Furiosa’s mother (Charlee Fraser, riveting in a relatively brief appearance), a skilled and determined warrior, takes up pursuit on horseback and nearly pulls off a seemingly impossible rescue. But when all is said and bludgeoned, Furiosa is held captive, first by the leader of those bikers, the grandiose and cutthroat warlord Dementus (Chris Hemsworth, hamming it up under a prosthetic nose), and then essentially traded off to the grotesque Immortan Joe (with Lachy Hulme taking over the role that was played by Hugh Keays-Byrne in “Fury Road”).

What amounts to the slave trading of young Furiosa, with the clear implications of how she will be assaulted once she’s a bit older, is deeply unsettling.

The villains in this film, including Immortan Joe’s psychopathic sons Rictus Erectus (Nathan Jones) and Scabrous Scrotus (Josh Helman), and geez those names, are vile and irredeemable. Yes, Dementus has a tragic backstory of his own — he literally wears a teddy bear on his chest as a reminder of the children he’s lost — but he has long ago forfeited anything resembling humanity and has become

After a bit of plot contrivance that stretches credulity but allows Furiosa to gain some semblance of freedom, we’re at approximately the one-hour mark when Taylor-Joy takes over the role, her wide eyes blazing with an intensity that has us instantly believing that, yes, this is our Furiosa. The story gets a little bogged down with all the bargaining and negotiating and power grabs between Dementus and Immortan Joe, but the world-building on display is amazing, as Furiosa’s journey (which is divided into five chapters with somewhat ponderous titles such as “The Pole of Inaccessibility”) stops at the three main outposts of the wasteland: the Citadel, controlled by Immortan Joe and his army of War Boys; Gas Town; and Bullet Farm.

After an incredible and extended mid-movie action sequence involving all sorts of creative gadgetry employed by combatants on both sides, Furiosa forms an alliance with the veteran road warrior Praetorian Jack (an excellent Tom Burke), who mentors Furiosa for a brief time, even showing her how to don that face paint that makes her look like a cross between 2010s Lady Gaga and a Raider Nation fan.

For the briefest of moments, it even appears as if there could be a romance between Furiosa and Praetorian Jack, with Furiosa quietly asking Jack to accompany her on her quest to return home. Alas, Dementus and Immortan Joe and a nearly endless supply chain of disposable secondary villains have other plans for this rebellious duo.

With a minimum of dialogue, Taylor-Joy delivers a commanding performance as Furiosa, as the story inches us closer and closer to the events of “Fury Road.” As a girl and as a young woman, Furiosa has been through hell and back -- and we know the path is only going to get rockier and bloodier in the time to come. 

PHOTO CREDIT IMDB

SENIOR LIVING

Don’t Let Diabetes Shortchange Your Golden Years

After a busy career in healthcare, Dianne Mattiace has finally retired with her husband in Alabama. However, she has no intention of slowing down. She is looking to live life to its fullest, whether that’s serving on the board of a local charity, spending time with her grandchildren or swimming in the lake by her house in summer.

Now in her early seventies, Mattiace was first diagnosed with type 1 diabetes over 30 years ago and spent many years adjusting to the stress of managing her diabetes. At times she felt like she had lost control of her diabetes and her life.

On one occasion, while her husband was traveling for work, Mattiace was hospitalized in Florida on the edge of diabetic ketoacidosis, a potentially life-threatening complication. “It was quite scary for me and my family. Thankfully I was treated successfully, but adapting to life with diabetes was proving very difficult for me. It was taking a significant toll on my physical and mental health”, she said.

It was during one of these tough periods where her endocrinologist suggested that she try something completely new. Like many people living with diabetes, Mattiace was using a continuous glucose monitor, but found traditional models to be uncomfortable, cumbersome and restrictive. Ultimately, they had presented challenges for her active life. That’s when she became the first ever person to be prescribed an Eversense CGM in 2018.

Mattiace had never heard of Eversense, until her endocrinologist introduced it as a unique CGM option that could perfectly suit her lifestyle. Currently on her 24th Eversense system, she has never looked back.

Eversense is the world’s first and only fully implantable and long-term CGM. The latest version, Eversense E3 lasts an astonishing 180 days, compared to just 7-14 days for other available CGMs. “It’s such a relief not to worry about constantly replacing sensors, booking doctor’s appointments and carrying endless supplies,” she says.

A sensor is inserted under the skin in the upper arm by a trained health care provider, and then one is free to go for a whole six months. With only two replacements needed a year, a removable smart transmitter1 is worn over the sensor and seamlessly sends glucose readings directly to a smartphone.

Although she did not consider herself tech-savvy, she quickly adapted to life with Eversense and immediately saw the benefits. The user-friendly app has helped simplify her decision making and she feels as though she can trust her CGM’s glucose readings due to Eversense’s exceptional accuracy.

“If I had to pick one feature that I love the most, it would be the subtle on-body vibratory alerts,” Mattiace added. “Eversense discretely lets me know if my glucose levels need attention, without attracting the attention of others. It’s perfect for when I’m at church or catching a movie, when I don’t want a phone making a lot of noise. It also means I can be away from my phone from time to time and live in the moment.”

All in all, Eversense has allowed her to enjoy her retirement without spending every moment worrying about her diabetes. “I don’t let diabetes control me,” she says, “It’s never too late to embrace something new and change your habits, especially when it comes to diabetes care.”

The Eversense E3 CGM, brought to people by Ascensia Diabetes Care, has been called the “CGM for real life” and Mattiace couldn’t agree more. The ability to remove and replace the Eversense transmitter means you no longer have to worry about taking a swim in the lake or knocking off her CGM when playing with her grandchildren.

This liberating experience is becoming an often-repeated story, as more users discover the ease, convenience and freedom of the Eversense E3. For more information about successfully managing diabetes, visit EversenseDiabetes.com/getstarted-today. (NewsUSA) 

• I hear fine as long as I turn the sound up

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• If you relate to any of these CALL US!

QNow that “NCIS: Hawai’i” has been canceled, are there going to be any other “NCIS” shows in the works?

— K.S.

AYes! “NCIS” has been a very successful franchise for CBS ever since it premiered on the network back in 2003. Starring Mark Harmon, the series has spawned four spin-offs (“Los Angeles,” “New Orleans,” “Hawai’i” and “Sydney”) with two more planned.

“NCIS: Origins” will focus on Harmon’s character at the beginning of his career in the 1990s, with Austin Stowell (“Three Women”) stepping into his shoes. The series will air on CBS on Monday nights beginning this fall, and Harmon is listed as the narrator.

The other new spin-off, “NCIS:

Michael Weatherly and Cote de Pablo to star in “Tony & Ziva” PHOTO CREDIT: GAIL SCHULMAN & AMANDA BEANE

Tony & Ziva,” will air on the streamer Paramount+ and will star fan-favorites Michael Weatherly and Cote de Pablo, who reprise their “NCIS” roles. You may remember that de Pablo’s Ziva was presumed dead when the actress left “NCIS,” but later, it was learned that she was alive and went on to live happily ever after with Tony and their baby in France. The new

What We Buried

By Robert Rotenberg

Inspired by the true story of the Forty Martyrs in Gubbio, Italy, during World War II, this is an extraordinary crime novel about troubled legacies, revenge, and the unbreakable bonds of family.

For fans of Scott Turow and David Baldacci, a Toronto homicide detective is attacked at his doorstep when his investigation into possible links between the Nazi occupation of Italy and the murder of his brother decades later gets too close to the truth.

It’s been years since Daniel Kennicott’s brother, Michael, was shot and killed the night before he was about to depart for Gubbio. The case was never solved. Daniel has put off going there — until now. As he’s about to leave, Daniel learns his two mentors have been involved in the investigation of Michael’s murder and they’re

series picks up with the family on the run in Europe.

“I expect intrigue, romance, the background of Europe, impossible situations that will make our life complicated, but somehow a little something about love,” explained de Pablo on a recent announcement via Zoom. Paramount+ has ordered 10 episodes, with shooting to begin shortly in Budapest.

QIs it true that Susan Lucci is going to be the “Golden Bachelorette”? Will the show air soon?

— J.K.

AABC decided to give audiences what they’ve been requesting for decades — a “Bachelor” for Boomers. Gerry Turner, a 72-year-old retired restaurateur and widower, became “The Golden Bachelor,” marrying, and alas divorcing, Theresa Nist, a financial securities specialist from Manhattan.

Despite the disappointing conclusion to that romance, the season itself was a hit with many questioning who would be the first Golden Bachelorette. There was a recent report that “All My Children” star Susan Luc-

concerned about Daniel’s safety. Is Daniel risking his life—and those of others—by trying to uncover the truth?

Right Across the Bay

By Quinn Avery

They were cousins who shared decades of secrets. And now one of them is dead.

Britta Baxter, beloved fitness influencer and estranged wife of a surgeon, gave up city life to start anew on grandma’s lakefront property. After she convinces her cousin, Maxine Thomsen, to revisit the same lake

where they’d spent their summers together as kids, Maxine is shocked to learn the boy she loved as a teenager lives across the bay. Although repairing the decades-old relationship between Maxine and Noah seems possible, a dark ending has already been set in place.

When Britta’s body is discovered floating in the bay, Detective Josephine Kelly is called in to investigate. But Britta isn’t the only victim on the killer’s list. Here’s a thriller fraught with life-changing twists and unfathomable secrets rooted in a shadowy past.

ci was asked to be the chooser, but a spokesperson from ABC has denied it.

According to TVLine, they eventually found their “The Golden Bachelorette” star in 61-year-old Joan Vassos, a school administrator who had to leave the “Golden Bachelor” season early to be by her daughter’s side for a medical crisis. She’ll make her debut this fall when “The Golden Bachelorette” premieres, with episodes being expanded to 90 minutes long.

QIs the PBS series “Antiques Roadshow” still making new episodes? I see reruns all the time where they give updates on what an item would be appraised at in 2024, but they’re still reruns.

— V.O.

AYes, “Antiques Roadshow” is currently filming its upcoming 29th season with a five-city tour. The new season will premiere sometime in 2025, with episodes filmed from their stops this summer in Las Vegas; Baltimore; Bentonville, Arkansas; Urbandale, Iowa; and Littleton, Colorado. 

©2023 King Features Synd., Inc.

Somewhere/Not/Here

By The Goblin Queen

Join the Goblin Queen on her quest for Somewhere/not/here as she searches for the place she belongs. Visit the Road to Ruin, a strange witchy woman who reads from her book of M-Tales. Meet Shockappeal the punk faerie, hang with Halloween Jack, and fly with the Techno-Witch, but avoid buying one of her moody brooms.

Travel to the lands of Love and Unlove – nice places to visit, but you wouldn’t want to live there. Have a therapy session with the Magick Mirror. No appointment required. By the way, Truth has teeth, and it will use them… bring band-aids. The author, who loves to write and travel to mystical places, lives in a magical house in a fantasy realm with her family and the ghosts of her dogs. And enjoy the book’s full-color illustrations.  BookBites is presented by Book Trib.com.

It’s That Time of Year: Tips For Summer Water Safety

Drowning is a leading cause of death for children ages 1-4, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. During the summer months, when water activities are more prevalent, drowning is more common, according to the National Safety Council.

Extreme heat may increase incidents of cardiac arrest and an average of 33 drownings occur in the U.S. each day, one-third of which are fatal. To protect your loved ones when playing in and around water this summer, keep these tips from the American Heart Association in mind:

Never swim alone Children always need supervision, but even adults should swim with a buddy so someone can call for help if an unexpected problem arises. Swimmers can get cramps that hinder movement in the water and slips and falls can happen to anyone.

Wear protective device U.S. Coast-Guard-approved life jackets provide the best protection for someone who is in the water and unable to safely reach solid footing. When on a boat, all passengers should wear life jackets in case of an accident, and young and inexperienced swimmers should wear one any time they’re near water.

Choose your swimming location wisely Avoid unknown bodies of water where hazards such as tree limbs or rocks may be hidden below the surface. Also avoid waterways with strong currents, such as rivers, that can easily carry even the strongest swimmers away. Instead, choose swimming pools and locations with trained lifeguards on duty. Learn cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) In the event of a drowning, no matter the age, the American Heart Association recommends rescue breaths along with chest compressions to keep oxygen circulating to the brain. Only 39% of those who participated in a consumer survey said they are familiar with conventional CPR and only 23% know about Hands-Only CPR.

Consider these ways to learn CPR and join the Nation of Lifesavers as an individual, family, organization or community.

Watch online Learn the basics of Hands-Only CPR by watching an instructional video online. Hands-Only CPR has just two simple steps:

1. Call 911 if you see someone suddenly collapse. 2. Push hard and fast in the center of the chest to the beat of a familiar song with 100-120 beats per minute, such as “Stayin’ Alive” by the Bee Gees.

Immerse yourself Through a virtual reality app, you can learn how to perform Hands-Only CPR and use an automated external defibrillator (AED) then put your skills to the test in real-life scenarios. Learn at home Learn basic lifesaving skills in about 20 minutes from the comfort and privacy of home with CPR Anytime kits. The Infant CPR Anytime program is for new parents, grandparents, babysitters, nannies and anyone who wants to learn lifesaving infant CPR and choking relief skills. The Adult & Child CPR Anytime Training kit teaches adults and teens Hands-Only CPR, child CPR with breaths, adult and child choking relief and general awareness of AEDs.

Take a course Get a group together and find a nearby class to learn the lifesaving skills of CPR, first aid and AED.

Turn employees into lifesavers Help make your workplace and community safer one step at a time by committing to CPR training for your employees or coworkers.

Visit heart.org/nation to access more summer safety resources and find a CPR course near you. (Family Features) 

HEALTH

Keeping Up with the New Kitchen Trends

If you’re considering a kitchen renovation, you’ve probably heard cautions about avoiding overly trendy designs that can diminish your home’s value and limit its appeal to future buyers. That’s sound advice, but many of this year’s trends are relatively neutral and have long-term staying power.

Kitchen upgrades are typically all about making practical updates to meet the needs of a family. The key to smart design is incorporating functional elements a family requires while striking a balance between style and trends that quickly become outdated.

Before you dive into a kitchen project, consider these on-trend design recommendations from the experts at Wellborn Cabinet.

Health-Focused Features

As the hub of nutrition, it’s no surprise wellness design features are making their way into the kitchen. Some examples include appliances with air frying or steaming features,

and double ovens are appearing in more homes, making home meals for the family easier to manage. Also look for technology that simplifies meal planning and managing your pantry inventory, as well as features that regulate food storage temperatures more precisely, including during power outages.

Shift Back to Wood Stains

Painted cabinets had their moment, but the latest designs are revealing a movement back toward warm wood grains, specifically oak. As trends continue to shift toward embracing natural elements, as well as exploring diverse color palettes, cabinet manufacturers are constantly innovating to meet the demands of consumers and design professionals alike.

To elevate contemporary cabinetry design, Wellborn Cabinet introduced captivating finishes that celebrate natural materials and textures. Inspired by the highly desired white oak at a more accessible price point, Board-

walk offers a breath of fresh air, allowing the unique oak wood grain to take center stage. The striking finish of Peppermill introduces a versatile darker brown hue with a subtle gray undertone, adding depth, dimension and sophistication. If you’re not quite ready to fully embrace natural wood tones, Alabaster may be a perfect alternative; this hue provides the timeless elegance of neutral white.

Space for Beverages

Food prep may be a mainstay in functional kitchen design, but a growing number of homeowners are calling beverages a close second with the addition of built-in coffee bars or smoothie stations and specialized storage for beer and wine. Countertop or supplementary nugget ice makers are another example of trending kitchen accessories that reinforce a growing focus on beverages for all occasions.

Contemporary Cabinetry

Your kitchen’s cabinet doors play an important role in defining your design aesthetic. Consider Wellborn’s wide variety of door styles, several of which have been redesigned to support the trend toward a simpler, smaller rail that’s in favor among designers and homeowners alike. With softer, more up-to-date appearances, they feature eased profiles to produce simple, straight, clean appearances. Options like Breckenridge and Ridge-

brook offer updates to the modified shaker style with a clean, modern, less clunky aesthetic. Made of quality, solid wood, they feature a reversed raised center panel to coordinate with a variety of design styles.

Take the Middle Ground Kitchen islands are hardly a new design element, but an increasing number of homeowners are making them a major focus of their renovations. A kitchen trends study by Houzz revealed 42% of homeowners are opting for islands that are 7 feet long or more. That’s extra prep space, but also more room for casual seating or socializing while hosting. Also gaining popularity are double islands for double the workspace.

Skip Bland Backsplash Tile

The wall space between your countertops and upper cabinets may not amount to much, but it’s a sure place to make a style statement. This year’s designers are saying farewell to stark white subway tile backsplashes. Instead, nature- and earth-inspired tones are trending. You can still use subway tile but consider a variation from the traditional stacked design. Texture is another option for modernizing your backsplash; think handcrafted tiles or earthy textures but take care to avoid overly busy patterns. (Family Features) 

Lavender and Rosemary

Perfect Plants for the SCV Garden

By Jane Gates Signal Staff Writer

Our upper chaparral climate offers hot, dry summers, and cooler and variably moist winters. Although the soil varies in clay, stone and sand content, all our native soil is lacking in organics. Two excellent plants that actually enjoy our environment are Lavender (Lavendula) and Rosemary (Rosmarinus).

white flowers. Both types of plants are woody shrubs that remain evergreen through the winter. Use them singly, as a group or to form a nice backdrop for other flowering plants.

Some lavender plants can grow into 5-foot-tall shrubs, while dwarf varieties can stay as low as 18 inches. We have been experiencing relatively warm winters, particularly at night, for the past several years. If you recently planted lavender in your garden, there is a good chance almost any variety will have fared well.

staying at about 2 to 3 feet in height, so it fits easily into many landscape designs. The flowers are showy with what look like tall, colorful feathers topping the spike of blooms.

Although Spanish lavender is most commonly found with reddish purple flowers, there are now hybrids that offer purples, pinks, whites, greens and combinations of any of these colors. There are larger and smaller sized shrubs, too.

in bright leaf or flower colors, are all fine for cooking or for making herbal teas. Creeping varieties are also edible, although each variety will have a slightly different flavor.

Rosemary and lavender offer multiple uses for crafts, cleansing, aroma therapy, medicinal oils, decor and sachets.

These plants are remarkably adaptable to our lean soils and thrive where the sun would burn most other plants. They will also accept a little dappled shade.

During blooming season, lavender and rosemary plants are covered with small blue, purple, pink or

In the past, however, it has not been abnormal for temperatures to drop into the low twenties or even the high teens in colder areas.

Whether things go warmer, cooler or stay the same, probably the most resilient lavender for the Santa Clarita Valley is the Spanish lavender, Lavendula stoeches

This is a medium-sized plant, usually

Garden rosemary can grow to 4-feet tall and spread 6-feet wide, or you can find varieties that stay low, mounding or trailing along the ground. The creepers are ideal to use as ground covers to carpet large areas or to have spill over the edges of walls or pots.

Rosemary can sprawl and become woody. It doesn’t hurt to do some regular, judicious pruning to keep the plants shapely.

There are also smaller growing varieties such as the sky-blue flowered “Ken Taylor” that stays at about 2-feet tall and need little or no pruning. Low, trailing rosemary plants can be found blooming in pale lilac, white or brilliant blues. They offer a good solution for covering hills or cascading over rocks and walls.

Both lavender and rosemary work well in the general garden or the herb garden. They can be used for scent at any time of year, and a dog or cat, who has been romping through the garden in rosemary or lavender, will come back into the house smelling absolutely wonderful!

Even decorative rosemary plants

Plant lavender and rosemary in your garden for beauty, scent and practical use. They are easy to grow and do well in areas of the chaparral or desert where many other plants would burn and shrivel. They adapt well in our chaparral landscapes, don’t need a lot of water, demand little attention and rarely are bothered by pests. What’s not to love when it comes to adding lavender and rosemary to your garden?

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

A close up of the leaves and flowers of the Spanish Lavender, (Lavendula stoeches).

Pink and blue flowering rosemary plants.

Some varieties of English Lavender can form large shrubs.

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SOLUTIONS

Opinion

READER LETTERS

Killing Future Constituents

On May 23, Gov. Gavin Newsom signed into law Senate Bill 233, allowing doctors from Arizona to travel to California to perform abortions, in response to a recent Arizona Supreme Court ruling that allows for the enforcement of a long-dormant law that bans most abortions in Arizona. Our own Assemblywoman Pilar Schiavo, D-Chatsworth, voted in favor of the bill along with 58 of her fellow Democrat Assembly members.

With respect to Assemblywoman Schiavo’s unwavering support for abortion, it would seem that a modicum of logic should be applied by both politicians and businesses who support abortion.

In what universe does it make sense for politicians to support the killing of their future constituents? I was under the impression that politicians go to great lengths to acquire new voters and donors — the real reason for President Joe Biden’s open borders policy. Is killing potential new voters and donors part of any university’s public policy or public administration curriculum? I doubt it.

While we’re on the subject of logic, in what universe does it make sense for companies like Amazon, Apple, Dick’s Sporting Goods, Disney, Google, Microsoft, Netflix, Starbucks and Target to support abortion and, by doing so, promote the killing of potential future customers? Don’t businesses go to great lengths and spend millions to create positive branding and position their companies as being compassionate and caring for their customers and communities? If so, why do they support the elimination of their prospective customers?

Isn’t it possible that a significant percentage of the 303,160 babies aborted in California (for the period April 2022 to September 2023, per www.kff. org/interactive/womens-health-profiles/california/ abortion-statistics) just might have grown up to be Democrat voters or customers of companies like Apple, Starbucks and Target?

Be it politician or business executive, basic pragmatism and common sense — never mind morality and ethics — dictate that, if you want more of something, you don’t kill that something.

As an aside, could it be that the 64 million babies aborted in the U.S. since the 1973 Roe vs. Wade decision has contributed to President Biden’s efforts to facilitate millions of illegal immigrants’ entry into the country to, in his words, help address our record low birth rate and unsustainably low population replacement rate?

William Creitz Valencia

ETHICALLY SPEAKING

The Way of Wisdom

By David Hegg

Since ancient times, wisdom has been a prized possession. Solomon, history’s wisest man, wrote, “Acquire wisdom, and with all your acquiring, get understanding” (Proverbs 4:7). He recognized that knowledge, wisdom and understanding were three different virtues. Today, we need to reexamine the role of each and the benefits of using each of them in the best way.

campuses nationwide. It was obvious from the beginning that they had a very different understanding of the best ends (institutional change) and chose what they considered the wisest means (rebellion, destruction of property, and violence) to bring attention to and force others to accept the knowledge (Hamas were the victims and Israel the criminals) they held as both true and honorable.

Submit a Letter to the Editor

Include name, address & phone. Anonymous letters aren’t published. E-mail: letters@signalscv.com.

Knowledge is all about facts. It is what we cognitively understand. We can know truth and error, right and wrong, good and evil. Given this, we all continue to build an archive of valuable and worthless knowledge. And in many cases, we recognize the difference between them when it is too late.

Wisdom is defined as the proper application of knowledge to life's situations. That is, sifting through the archive of knowledge to find and apply the most beneficial knowledge in the most effective way to bring about the best ends.

Lastly, understanding is the ability to assess the consequences of one's application of knowledge to life — either wise or unwise — and learn from disastrous, foolish decisions and the unintended consequences of previous wise ones.

But the whole ethical partnership of knowledge, wisdom and understanding has fallen on hard times today. Too often, there needs to be more discernment about the best ends in life. And if those ends are emotionally rather than rationally discerned, the whole process will be undermined. Take the pursuit of wealth, for example. If you decide that the best ends in your life situations are those that help you accumulate material wealth, then your choice of means will be shaped accordingly. You will do whatever it takes to gain a profit, even if it means bending the rules or perpetrating injustice on those in your way. You will think little about taking unfair advantage of others if it will increase your bottom line. We see this in multiple ways in our world today.

If you have gone down the path of immediate sexual gratification as a driving force in your life, then you will think nothing of engaging in multiple sexual liaisons. And perhaps most noticeable recently are those who, aligning with a particular viewpoint, unwisely attempt to force their view on the rest of us through what they consider are the best means. Yet, as it plays out, it becomes evident that what they consider “true” is much more complex, and the means they choose to bring about their ends eventually undermine their entire enterprise.

For example, consider the students, faculty and professional rioters who grabbed the headlines on

What may have begun on the part of some as a peaceful demonstration deteriorated into chaos and criminal activity on the part of many. How did they get off track? Even if, for argument’s sake, I grant them the possibility that they had something worth adding to the national conversation, they lacked understanding. They didn’t see the big picture. They rushed into a fray without understanding their actions’ short- and long-term results.

Consequently, they unwisely chose the wrong means to accomplish their goal. Instead, their foolishness was demonstrated by their demise. It became apparent that their knowledge base could not support their actions. Their cause suffered from a breakdown of internal virtue, and they became a mob to be controlled rather than champions of a position that could shape public opinion.

The significant problem we face in our society is we are fast becoming people whose daily choices are shaped and fueled more by desire for immediate pleasure than by long-term stability. Our impatience is exceeded only by our addiction to happiness, clouding our vision. More and more, our daily choices are driven by how we want to feel right now. This isn’t wise. And more, it demonstrates that we don’t understand the grave consequences of our selfishness. We are blind to the incremental erosion of our courage to make hard choices.

Our daily addiction to happiness is making us all cowards, and our reaction is simply to laugh and demand more fun. Meanwhile, hard work, delayed gratification, integrity and genuine compassion are taking a back seat to easy money, duplicity and the determination to ensure nice guys finish last.

We may need to re-examine just what the best ends are in life. For Solomon, the beginning of wisdom was a proper recognition of God. Life is not up to us to figure out. It is to be lived on the highest ethical plane, as those accountable for more than their temporal happiness. We once believed that the best means in every situation were those that enabled us to love God and love our neighbor. Maybe knowledge, wisdom and understanding aren’t that difficult to understand after all.

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

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