Sunday Signal 070923

The Best Cities for a Family Vacation

By Phillipa Collins For The Signal

Holidaymakers in the U.S. are increasingly looking for vacations where they don’t need to worry about expensive overseas flights and travel insurance.

Family vacation experts at FamilyDestinationsGuide have analyzed the most populated cities in the U.S. to find out which one is the best choice for a vacation.

The study looked at the average price of a hotel for a family of four, the number of restaurants in the city and the number of family friendly attractions. They used these factors to create a ten-point scale in order to rank the results.

Miami, FL. 8.3 out of 10

Ideal for beach lovers, Miami comes first on the list. With 31.20 attractions and 680.54 restaurants per 100,000 people, this beach city draws tourists due to its bustling downtown area. Miami is a popular destination for convention-goers with Florida Supercon announced this year and those wanting sun, sea and sand can take in the South Beach area.

Las Vegas, NV. 8.25 out of 10

Alongside its many casinos, Las Vegas also has a large number of parks and recreational grounds. The city has 29.87 family attractions per 100,000 people, resulting in plenty of shows and entertainment for children including Excalibur’s Tournament of Kings and the Adventuredome at Circus Circus. For those with a sweet tooth, Hershey’s Chocolate World and M&M’s World also call Las Vegas home.

San Francisco, CA. 6.1out of 10

The bustling city of San Francisco offers plenty in shopping and areas to explore. Tourists can enjoy visits to the Aquarium of the Bay and a chance

to go on the 7D Experience at Pier 39. For younger visitors there is also the Walt Disney Family Museum and the San Francisco Zoo to keep them entertained. The city has 412.25 restaurants per 100,000 people, meaning there are plenty of places for lunch.

Tuscon, AZ. 5.9 out of 10

While not a city that immediately jumps to mind when you think of ‘vacation,’ the average hotel price is $446.89, the cheapest hotel in the list. Tuscon has a wide variety of activities that everyone can enjoy. Among the stunning scenery that’s great for hiking, the city also hosts botanical gardens and the quirky Mini Time Machine Museum of Miniatures which has over 500 pieces of antique and contemporary dollhouses.

Atlanta, GA. 5.8 out of 10

Atlanta is home to the World of Coca-Cola, giving visitors a peek at the famous soft drink. For animal-lovers there’s also the Georgia Aquarium and Zoo Atlanta. The city also has a wide range of museums that all tourists can enjoy. Atlanta has 497.96 restaurants but only 12.82 family attractions per 100,000 people.

Washington, D.C. 5.4 out of 10

The nation’s capital boasts plenty for visitors to do, from walks through its many parks to visiting the famous Smithsonian’s National Zoo. However, the hotel price of $847.65 is one of the highest on the list.

Portland, OR. 5.3 out of 10

Portland is home to Oaks Amusement Park and shows by the Children’s Theatre Company for younger visitors. The city also boasts a wide selection of parks and gardens to explore. Portland has a cheaper hotel price than Atlanta, costing $732.09, a saving of one dollar.

Seattle, WA. 4.9 out of 10

The Space Needle is many people’s first thought when it comes to Seattle, but visitors can also enjoy visits to the Woodland Park Zoo and ride on the city’s monorail. The average hotel price in Seattle is $1143.46, the most expensive on the list.

Mesa, AZ. 4.8 out of 10

Mesa boasts a range of activity centers to keep tourists occupied. Jake’s Unlimited features laser tag and a VR zone while Kids That Rip features skate parks and a variety of sports courts to burn off energy. For older visitors there are golf clubs and kayaking available. The city has only 5.15 family attractions per 100,000 people, accounting for its ranking on the list.

Tulsa, OK. 4.6 out of 10

Tulsa has plenty of green space to explore and enjoy peaceful picnics, alongside a zoo with big cats, rhinos and giraffes. Visitors can also go to the many museums around the city. Tulsa’s low number of attractions at 7.15 and restaurants at 221.26 per 100,000 people brings it down to last place on the list.

“Overseas travel is expensive, and since 2019, staycations have seen a 16% increase in searches. The research shows that people in the U.S. are looking more towards home than away for their holidays.

“Places like Miami and Las Vegas are well-known tourist areas, but the findings have highlighted cities like Tulsa, Mesa, and Portland which are rich in culture and attractions, yet receive less tourists, for being vacation hotspots. These cities can provide value for money, with Tulsa’s average hotel price coming in at $531.43. 

MIAMI BEACH. PHOTO CREDIT LINDA72 FROM PIXABAY

Experience San Francisco

By Michele E. Buttelman Signal Staff Writer

People are now focusing on having “experiences” rather than buying “things.” This trend can be seen clearly in the travel sector as travel has become the most sought after “experience” in all age groups.

Mastercard Travel Services reports global leisure travel is up 31% in March 2023 compared to the same period in 2019, representing a 25% increase from 2022 to 2023.

The “travel bug” has intensified for many since the COVID-19 pandemic severely restricted everyone’s travel options for several years.

This new emphasis on seeking “experiences” is more than just seeing the usual tourist sights. Gone are the days when a vacation meant traveling to a beautiful location and hanging around a pool or laying on a beach.

Today’s travelers want to see, and experience, unique sights, sounds and food. Locations off the beaten path are among the most popular travel destinations.

However, travelers can also visit a popular tourist destination, such as San Francisco, and find unique sights. It’s time to see something you didn’t know existed.

The Wave Organ

83 Marina Green Drive 94123

Info www.exploratorium.edu/visit/ wave-organ

The Wave Organ is a huge musical instrument played by the ocean. Located on a jetty in the San Francisco Bay, the Wave Organ was built in 1986. This acoustic sculpture amplifies the sounds of the waves in the bay.

The organ’s jetty was constructed with carved granite and marble from a demolished cemetery that also forms the irregular terraced seating. The “organ” is comprised of more than 20 PVC and concrete pipes that extend down into the water at various levels. Sound is created by waves crashing against the ends of the pipes. When waves roll in, the pipes create low, gurgling notes that ebb and flow with the movement of the ocean and the changing of the tides.

The acoustics of the wave organ are only active when the tide is in, and the music is best heard at high tide. Parking is available in the nearby marina.

San Francisco’s Cable Car Museum

1201 Mason Street 94108

Info www.cablecarmuseum.org

Riding a cable car isn’t that unusual, but visiting this free museum located in the heart of the city’s historic cable car system is a unique experience. The San Francisco Cable Care Museum is a place where giant spinning sheaves pull the cable cars up the city’s famously steep streets.

Anyone who’s ever wondered about the inner mechanics of San Francisco’s cable cars can experience it here. See how each streetcar is pulled along a huge continuous loop of cable, which is constantly turned by a giant spinning sheave. These enormous sheaves, which are wheels with grooves along their edges for holding cable, can be seen in motion at the Cable Car Museum.

The museum also features exhibits that explain the history of both San Francisco’s cable and streetcar systems along with the story of how the cable cars were saved from the post-WWII threat of replacement by buses.

Take a cable car to the location by using the Powell line at Washington.

Golden Gate Fortune Cookie Factory

56 Ross Alley 94108 Info www.goldengatefortunecookies. com

Founded in 1962 the Golden Gate Fortune Cookie Factory is one of the oldest

producers of hand-folded fortune cookies in the United States.

Located in a pedestrian alley tucked into San Francisco’s Chinatown neighborhood, this tiny factory still uses its original secret recipe.

The classic fortune cookie recipe is so secret even co-owner Kevin Chang doesn’t know his mother’s recipe.

Other producers have turned to automated labor, leaving this factory as one of the last of its kind.

When their rent quadrupled within three years, the Chang family, who has run the operation since 1962, opened up the factory to allow visitors to see how the cookies are made. The factory is able to crank out up to 10,000 cookies a day.

You can buy flat or folded cookies in a variety of unique flavors at the factory. The factory is open seven days a week.

Relics of the 1906 Earthquake

At 5:12 a.m. on Wednesday,

April 18, 1906, San Francisco was struck by a major earthquake with an estimated magnitude of 7.9. Fire broke out in the city and lasted for several days. More than 3,000 people died and over 80% of the city was destroyed. The event is remembered as the deadliest earthquake in the history of the United States.

Instead of visiting a dusty museum take to the streets of San Francisco to see these two amazing relics from that historic earthquake.

The Golden Fire Hydrant Church St. and 20th St. 94114

On the southwest corner of Dolores Park sits a historic fire hydrant. As fires raged throughout San Francisco after the 1906 earthquake, much of the city’s network of fire hydrants failed. Miraculously this hydrant, nicknamed “little giant,” is said to have been the only functioning hydrant and is credited with saving the historic Mission District neighborhood from destruction.

IMAGE BY BIANCA-STOCK-PHOTOS FROM PIXABAY

The Wave Organ is an acoustic sculpture constructed on the shore of San Francisco Bay by the Exploratorium. Through a series of pipes, the wave organ interacts with the waves of the bay and conveys their sound to listeners at several different listening stations. PHOTO VISIT CALIFORNIA. See SAN FRANCISCO, page 7

Santa Clarita’s One-Stop Shop to

By Michele E. Buttelman Signal Staff Writer

Santa Clarita is a city of volunteers. Much of Santa Clarita’s social fabric is built around the culture of volunteerism which can encompass nonprofit fundraisers, church activities, entertainment events and Santa Clarita festivals.

From helping the homeless to assisting at the hospital, as well as a diverse array of other activities, volunteers are the lifeblood of a thriving and well-functioning community.

SantaClaritaVolunteers.com is seeking to be the “one stop shop” for volunteers, nonprofits and the city of Santa Clarita to connect, said Tess Simgen, volunteer engagement supervisor for the city of Santa Clarita.

“We want to promote volunteerism in the community and have tried to make it easy both for nonprofits and residents wanting to volunteer,” Simgen said. “We want to connect people easily with available volunteer opportunities with the city and Santa Clarita Valley-based nonprofits.”

Among recent city events that have relied heavily on volunteer assistance are the Cowboy Festival and Eggstravaganza, the annual community Easter egg hunt held in the spring at Central Park.

Volunteers Always Needed

Simgen said there are many other volunteer opportunities, some not as glamorous, but equally as important that benefit and improve the quality of life for everyone living in Santa Clarita.

Youth sports coaches and trail maintenance volunteers are always in demand. Currently opportunities also exist to help with the Cocktails on the Roof fundraiser for the WiSH Education Foundation and the summer reading program at the Santa Clarita public libraries.

The COVID-19 pandemic impacted nearly aspect of life in Santa Clarita. Now people are eager to get out and return to celebrating the nonprofit fundraisers and community festivities held in the SCV. All of these activities benefit from active and engaged volunteers.

Helping Nonprofits

“We developed the volunteer hub during the COVID-19 pandemic,” said Simgen. “We launched the website in late 2020.”

In 2020 it was easy to see the effect the pandemic was having on the working of SCV nonprofits.

“Nonprofits had to rethink how they delivered services and there were also many community members with time to help out,” she said. It seemed natural to find an easy way to connect the two.

The first nonprofit to benefit from the city’s effort to pair volunteers with nonprofits was the WiSH Education Foundation.

“While children were home during the pandemic the WiSH Education Foundation was trying to help kids who had to study at home and didn’t have desks, or chairs,” Simgen said. “WiSH had chairs and desks. We helped find the volunteers needed to deliver the items to students.”

Simgen said 22 nonprofits used the website in 2022 to post 46 volunteer opportunities that attracted 274 volunteers.

As of May, 2023 14 nonprofits have posted 19 opportunities that attracted 129 volunteers.

“We want SCV-based nonprofits to know we are here and ready to help,” she said.

Volunteer Impact Report

The 2022 Volunteer Impact Report issued by Santa Clarita shows the impact volunteers have had on the city of Santa Clarita.

In 2022 the city made use of 4,869 volunteers for a total of 29,689 volunteer hours donated. That translates to $1.06 million in the value of volunteer hours (based on 2021 rate).

In 2022 there were 122 unique volunteer positions available at 22 events held by the city of Santa Clarita including Party on the Pointe, Light Up Main Street, Eggstravaganza, Zombie Run, Dia de Los Libros, Halloween Fiesta and Haunted House, Thanksgiving Community Dinners and the Family Literacy Festival, among others.

Volunteer coaches mentored more than 2,200 youth participants in 220 Youth Sports teams which allowed leagues to grow and accommodate more participation.

Volunteers built over five miles of new trails, added new mileage to Gates Trail and Romo Trail, helped create the new Rattlesnake Run and Heritage Bypass Trail, and maintained more than 25 miles of trails at Santa Clarita Open Space locations.

In addition, more than 1,200 volunteers collected 11,320 pounds of trash during the annual River Rally clean-up event.

Volunteer as a Family

Simgen said volunteer opportunities are available for nearly all ages.

“SantaClaritaVolunteers.com is a good option for students who need community service hours,” she said. “It’s one place to find volunteer opportunities instead of making many calls to numerous nonprofits.”

The age limit for young volunteers depends on the project.

Youth as young as 14, accompanied by a parent, can participate on some of the trail projects. Other events can make use of volunteers as young as 10 or 12.

“For egg stuffing at Eggstravaganza we want to give younger children the chance to volunteer so they learn about the benefits of volunteering,” Simgen said.

Summer is also a good opportunity for families to volunteer together.

“For parents who want to keep their kids busy doing something positive I suggest they come and volunteer as a family. I want to make volunteering a family affair,” said Simgen.

Benefits of Volunteering

“Volunteering is very important to the culture of Santa Clarita and we are very blessed because we have a lot of residents who are willing to volunteer and give back,” said Simgen. “It enriches our community. There are studies that show that volunteering is good for your mind and body. It’s a win-win for everyone.”

Simgen also pointed out the advantages of volunteering for high school students.

“Some high school students don’t have much work experience,” she said. “But they can put volunteer experience on their resumes. Students are learning skills when they volunteer.”

Make a Difference Day

Simgen said plans are being made to bring back Make a Difference Day on Saturday, Oct. 28. “We have started to reach out to nonprofits for projects that volunteers can help out with,” she said.

Nonprofits can contact Simgen by email at tsimgen@santa-clarita.com. 

Volunteers work to distribute plastic eggs around Central Park for Eggstravaganza, the annual community Easter egg hunt. PHOTO CITY OF SANTA CLARITA.

By Anna Ryan For the Signal

While you may be clued up on the necessary exercises to meeting your fitness goals, it’s not always so simple. Your diet is crucial when it comes to working out, as it plays an important role in achieving optimum results. Proteins and carbohydrate are vital nutrients, whether your aim be to lose weight or build muscle.

Fitness experts at Breaking Muscle have highlighted the best foods to eat to help you to see results quickly.

Greek Yogurt

Due to being high in protein, Greek yogurt is essential for your diet. With low fat, calories, and even sugar, it helps to promote weight loss while simultaneously building muscle. As well as this, it contains probiotics to improve your immune and digestive health to contribute to a healthy gut biome. Add a handful of almond to the yogurt for an even more effective snack, as one ounce has six grams of protein.

Brown Rice

Containing fiber, complex carbohydrates, proteins, and antioxidants, brown rice is an excellent food for exercise – and with healthy fat, it supplies your body with long-term energy during workouts.

Best Foods for a Quicker Workout Result SAN FRANCISCO

Continued from page 5

Lotta’s Fountain

Kearny Street and Geary Street

94102

This fountain has survived earthquakes, fires and attempts to move it to Golden Gate Park, and in the process has become San Francisco’s oldest surviving monument.

Lotta’s Fountain is a 24-foot cast iron sculpture, painted bronze and adorned with lion’s heads, griffins, and other ornaments.

Gifted to the city in 1875 by famous vaudeville performer, Lotta Crabtree, the fountain became a gathering place for dazed 1906 earthquake sur-

Yogurt Brown Rice Eggs

Oatmeal

Sweet Potatoes

Plus, the high-fiber causes your body to feel more full, thus reducing your intake of calories to help with weight loss. Pair with kidney or black beans for an increased intake of protein to contribute to lower body weight and lean muscle gain.

Oatmeal

Oatmeal is great for boosting endurance and strength for your workouts. Not only does it provide complex carbohydrates and protein to aid your workout progress, but it is rich in fiber too. Plus, you can add in extras for more flavor like berries which contains inflammation-fighting antioxidants that help your body to heal after exercise.

Sweet Potatoes

Another great source of complex carbohydrates is sweet potatoes, contributing to a full stomach due to being high in fiber and water to reduce your calorie intake. Not to mention, they contain vitamin A, potassium, and riboflavin to name a few, which all aid the muscle building process. A flavorful pairing for sweet potatoes is red peppers which are filled with anti-inflammatory antioxidants to ease any pain after a workout.

vivors who were searching for anything familiar left standing.

Lotta’s Fountain served as a meeting place for people to be reunited with their loved ones. Every year at 5:12 a.m. on April 18 people still meet at the fountain in a ceremony of remembrance. 

Eggs

Eggs are very high in protein and are fantastic for building muscle – and they can even help with weight loss too due to the high protein and the healthy fat to make you feel fuller. To help muscle gain and weight loss, poached or boiled eggs are the healthiest way to consume them as they retain most of their nutrients and don’t require adding more calories from extras such as oil. Serve your eggs with whole grain bread for a high intake of protein and fiber.

A spokesperson from Breaking Muscle has commented: “It can often take time to become familiar with the right workouts for your fitness goals, and to add to that, it can be challenging finding where to start when it comes to the best foods to eat. Thankfully, there are plenty of foods packed with the important nutrients that fit different fitness goals, whether that’s to increase muscle mass, lose weight, or both. It’s essential that those who are into exercise understand that meals and snacks don’t need to be anything complicated, and something as simple as oatmeal and bananas for breakfast won’t take a chunk of time out of a busy day.” 

Founded in 1962 the Golden Gate Fortune Cookie Factory is one of the oldest producers of hand-folded fortune cookies in the United States. Photo Golden Gate Fortune Cookie Factory.

FROM THE CITY MANAGER

New Additions to Central Park Underway

By Ken Striplin Santa Clarita City Manager

Santa Clarita offers an array of remarkable amenities that truly set us apart from other communities. One in particular, that I continue to proudly emphasize, is our exceptional parks system which enriches the lives of our residents with an impressive collection of 37 picturesque parks thoughtfully dispersed throughout our various neighborhoods. Designed for a wide range of activities, from playing sports to spending time with family, it is our goal to maintain and improve our Santa Clarita parks.

Central Park (27150 Bouquet Canyon Road), located in the heart of Santa Clarita, is in the final stages of a Capital Improvement Project, identified as one of the major action items in the City’s five-year strategic plan, SC2025. This is a highly anticipated project and I cannot wait for residents to have the opportunity to enjoy the many amenities being added to one of our communities’ favorite parks. The first new feature, that is difficult to miss

upon entering the southwestern portion of the park, is the massive 172-step exercise staircase that scales a portion of the hill. The progress of the staircase has residents buzzing on social media about how eager they are to conquer it, one step at a time.

Beneath the exercise staircase, you’ll see the extensive construction site with crews hard at work creating four new multi-purpose fields, perfect for sports such as soccer and lacrosse, all illuminated with bright Musco Sports Lighting.

To complement the anticipated popularity of the new multi-purpose fields and exercise staircase, as well as future events held at Central Park, a 168-space parking lot is also being constructed, along with a brand-new restroom building.

Between the parking lot and multi-purpose field, an elaborate plaza is in the works, excellent for team meetings and getting together with friends and family, complete with shade structures, picnic benches, greenery and an art component.

This plaza ties the area together nicely and will be an incredible addition to Central

Park. From there, a new sidewalk and lighted concrete path will be built that leads to the Central Bark Dog Park, which will have new shade canopies, picnic benches and abundant greenery.

Residents have been asking when the Central Park Buildout will be complete and I don’t blame them for their eagerness to enjoy the new features. Due to the landscaping and irrigation, as well as the installation of turf and sod being weather-dependent for proper growth and establishment of its roots, the multi-purpose fields are anticipated to be ready for use by the end of 2023. However, the exercise staircase, parking lot and plaza will be completed by the fall.

Your patience is appreciated during the construction of this expansive Capital Improvement Project. I cannot wait to see our local sports teams and families utilize all of these new features at Central Park!

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. 

Easy and Simply Sweet, Savory, Salty Snacks

Work, social commitments, kids' activities and the daily grind can take over schedules and wreak havoc on your opportunities to sit at the table for meals. As your calendar seems to fill up with meetings, family occasions and more, you might just find yourself skipping breakfast or lunch and opting for filling snacks instead.

In fact, according to the International Food Information Council's 2022 Food and Health Survey, 75% of Americans snack at least once per day, which means 2023 could become the year of the snack. Whether it's forgoing breakfast at home for a bite on the go or powering up with an afternoon morsel, one flavor favorite and nutritional powerhouse you can turn to is the pecan.

As pecans are used in an increasing number of snack innovations, they're being hailed as the fastest growing nut in new snack applications, according to Information Resources Inc. They're an ideal snack for punching up your routine with great taste, plant-based nutrition and an easy-to-pair profile.

For example, they're poised to remix your snack mix mentality as they complement sweet, savory, spicy and buttery combinations. Ready in less than half an hour, you can add some sweetness to your workday with this Pecan Snack Mix with Cranberries and Chocolate for a fruity, nutty, chocolatey twist on traditional trail mix.

If a saltier treat is more your speed, consider this Salty Pecan Snack Mix for a grab-and-go breakfast as you head out the door or an easy way to keep hunger at bay in the afternoon. Because pecans pair with a variety of in-

gredients and flavors, they're a perfect partner for this combination of rolled oats, coconut, honey, cinnamon and more.

Find more sweet and savory recipe inspiration at EatPecans.com.

Pecan Snack Mix with Cranberries and Chocolate

Recipe courtesy of Jess Larson and the American Pecan Promotion Board

Prep time 10 minutes

Cook time 5 minutes, plus 10 minutes cooling time

1 cup pecan halves

1 cup rice squares cereal (wheat or cinnamon)

1/2 cup pretzels

2 tablespoons unsalted butter

1 tablespoon brown sugar

1 1/2 tablespoons pure maple syrup

1/2 teaspoon kosher salt

1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg

1/2 cup dried cranberries

1/2 cup dark chocolate chips

In large, microwave-safe bowl, add pecans, rice squares cereal and pretzels. In small, microwave-safe bowl, add butter, brown sugar, maple syrup, salt and nutmeg. Microwave butter mixture 1-2 minutes until melted then pour over dry mix. Toss well to combine. Microwave snack mix in 45-second intervals, about 4-5 intervals total, until mix is fragrant, golden and toasty. Cool mix completely then stir in cranberries and dark chocolate chips. (Family Features) 

Salty Pecan Snack Mix

Recipe courtesy of Mallory Oniki and the American Pecan Promotion Board

Prep time 10 minutes

Cook time 20 minutes

Servings 15

2 cups rice squares cereal

1 cup rolled oats

1 cup unsweetened coconut

1/3 cup honey

1/4 cup coconut oil

1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/4 cup butter

2 cups chopped pecans

1 cup oyster crackers

Preheat oven to 350 F.

In bowl, add rice squares cereal, oats and unsweetened coconut.

In small saucepan over medium heat, add honey, coconut oil, cinnamon and salt. Stir until mixture starts to boil then pour over snack mix and stir until well combined.

Transfer to baking sheet and bake 8-10 minutes.

In saucepan over medium heat, add butter. Stir until butter browns then add chopped pecans and oyster crackers. Turn heat to low and stir while pecans roast. Remove snack mix from oven and add brown butter pecan and cracker mixture; stir to combine. 

ENTERTAINMENT

Indiana Jones is ‘Creaky, Corny and Contrived’

By Richard Roeper Signal Contributing Writer

‘Indiana Jones and The Dial Of Destiny’

(out of four)

Disney presents a film directed by James Mangold and written by Mangold, Jez Butterworth, John-Henry Butterworth and David Koepp. Rated PG-13. In theaters.

Why’d they have to do Indy like that.

“Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny” is the fifth and final installment of the beloved franchise that revolutionized action filmmaking through a retro lens back in 1981 — and it is the absolute worst chapter in the series. Clocking in at a bloated 2 hours and 24 minutes, with versatile director James Mangold (“Ford v Ferrari,” “Logan”) taking the reins from that Spielberg fella, “Dial of Destiny” has a few clever ideas and some well-craft-

ed action sequences, but the main plot line is creaky, corny and contrived, and the final action twist lands the story in such disastrous B-movie territory that not even Harrison Ford as Indiana Jones can rescue it from collapsing in a dusty heap of mediocrity. (There’s a last-ditch effort to give Indy some closure, but it feels tackedon and halfhearted.)

The story kicks off with an extended prologue set near the end of World War II, which means Indiana Jones would be in his mid-40s, and I must say the de-aging technique used on Ford is maybe the most impressive use of the technology yet, as they used footage and outtakes from every Lucasfilm featuring Ford to pick up various angles of his face and insert them into the picture, so, well done, you.

Accompanied by his geeky pal Basil Shaw (a well-cast Toby Jones), Indy is trying to get his hands on the Lance of Longinus (the knife supposedly used to draw the blood of Christ), but soon after he discovers that item is

a fake, he turns his efforts to gaining possession of a piece of the Antikythera, aka the Archimedes Dial, a frighteningly powerful contraption that is said to hold the power to manipulate fissures in time. Whatever, it’s the thing everybody wants.

Indy narrowly escapes a hanging by Third Reich treasure-stealers and finds himself in a deadly battle atop a train, against the backdrop of some pretty terrible CGI, with one Jurgen Voller, a mad Nazi scientist who is played by Mads Mikkelsen, and while Mikkelsen is a wonderful actor, it feels a bit lazy to cast him as the heavy, given he’s already played a villain in a Bond movie (“Casino Royale”), Grindelwald in “The Secrets of Dumbledore” AND Hannibal Lecter in a TV series. In any event, Indy gains possession of the Antikythera. Another successful adventure for the great Indiana Jones!

in time and alter the course of World War II. Great, we haven’t had a “travel back in time to alter events” plot in at least a couple of weeks.

Impossible - Dead Reckoning Par t One Ethan Hunt (Tom Cruise) and his IMF team embark on their most dangerous miss on yet: To track down a terrify ng new weapon that threatens al of humanity before it fa ls into the wrong hands Z i g g y s ta R D u s t & t h e s p i D e R s F Ro M M a R s: t h e M ot i o n p i c t u R e 50t h a n n i v e R s a Ry Sun: 1:00 PM; Mon: 7:30 PM

One of the most iconic per formances n the h stor y of modern music, Dav d Bowie s retirement of his Ziggy Stardust alter ego n front of 5,000 fans at London s Hammersmith Odeon was captured on fi m by award-winning d rec tor D A Pennebaker on July 3 1973 i n s i D i o u s: t h e R e D D o o R C Sun: 10:10 1:20 4:20 7:20; Mon to Thu: 1:20 4:20 7:20

To put the r demons to rest once and for al Josh and a col ege -aged Dalton must go deeper into The Fur ther than ever before fac ng the r fam ly s dark past and a host of new and more horrify ng terrors that urk beh nd the red door J oy R i D e Sun: 10:20 1:30 4:30 7:30; Mon to Thu: 1:30 4:30 7:30

This hilarious and unapologetical y explicit stor y of dent ty and self- discover y centers on four unl ke y friends who embark on a once - n-a-l fet me nternational adventure t h e l e s s o n E Sun: 4:10 7:10; Mon: 1:30 4:10; Tue to Thu: 1:30 4:10 7:10 L am, an asp ring and amb tious young writer, eagerly accepts a tutoring pos tion at the family estate of h s ido , renowned author J M Sinclair But soon L am real zes that he is ensnared n a web of fam ly secrets, resentment, and retr bution i n D i a n a J o n e s a n D t h e D i a l o F D e s t i ny C Sun: 10:00

Mon to Thu: 1:00 4:00 7:00

Harrison Ford returns as the egendar y hero archaeolog st n the highly anticipated fifth instal ment of the con c ndiana Jones” franchise which is direc ted by James Mangold Ru by g i l l M a n, t e e n ag e k R a k e n B Sun: 10:30

Mon to Wed: 1:00 3:10 5:20 7:30; Thu: 1:00 3:10 5:20

A shy teenager d scovers that she s par t of a legendar y royal ineage of mythical sea krakens and that her destiny, in the depths of the oceans, is b gger than she ever dreamed a s t e Ro i D c i t y C Sun: 10:20 1:10 4:20 7:20; Mon & Tue: 1:10 4:20 7:20

The it nerar y of a Junior Stargazer/Space Cadet convention (organ zed to bring together students and parents from across the countr y for fel owsh p and scho ar y competition) is spec tacularly disrupted by world- changing events n o h a R D F e e l i n g s E Sun & Mon: 1:20 4:10 7:00; Tue: 1:20 PM

Maddie thinks she s found the answer to her financ al troubles when she discovers an ntrigu ng job l sting wealthy he icopter parents look ng for someone to date the r introver ted 19-year- old son, Perc y and bring him out of h s shell before he leaves for college But awkward Perc y proves to be more of a challenge than she expec ted pa s t l i v e s C Sun: 10:10 AM

Nora and Hae Sung, two deep y connec ted ch ldhood fr ends, are wrest apar t after Nora’s fami y em grates from South Korea Two decades ater they are reunited in New York for one fatefu week as they confront not ons of dest ny, ove and the cho ces that make a ife

: 7:30 PM

Cut to 1969, about a dozen years after the events of “Crystal Skull,” and we find Indiana Jones living out his days as a broken, crusty, surly old-timer who wakes up in his cruddy apartment in New York, pours bourbon into his coffee, yells at his hippie neighbors for blasting the Beatles’ “Magical Mystery Tour” and heads to his job teaching at Hunter College, where he goes through the motions while boring his class to death. You’d think Indy would at least regale his students with stories of how he’s been shot nine times and endured torture and he’s downed the Blood of Kali, but he’s barely there. It’s all over for Indy.

Enter one Helena Shaw (Phoebe Waller-Bridge), the daughter of Indy’s old and dearly departed friend Basil, whom he hasn’t seen in more than a decade. Helena claims she’s writing her doctoral thesis on the Dial of Destiny gizmo, but in fact she’s a cheeky, duplicitous, manipulative fortune-hunter who intends to steal Indy’s half of the thingy and auction it to the highest bidder.

Greatly complicating matters: the return of Jurgen Moller, who has reinvented himself as a scientist for NASA but will now stop at nothing, including multiple murders, to gain possession of BOTH halves of the gizmo thingy so he can travel back

Director Mangold stages an audacious-bordering-on-cartoonish chase sequence that careens through an Apollo 11 celebration parade and then a Vietnam War protest, with Indy commandeering a police horse that takes him through the subway. The action then hops to a number of exotic locales, including Tangiers, Athens and Sicily, with one extended chase sequence after another, proving that a movie can be both action-packed and slow-moving at the same time.

Waller-Bridge is a phenomenally talented actor, and she does her best to infuse Helena with a kind of oldtimey Katharine Hepburn energy, but she’s saddled with playing a one-dimensional character who, of course, will eventually become Indy’s ally simply because the script demands it. Helena’s young partner in crime, the plucky and resourceful Teddy (Ethann Isidore), is an obvious attempt to echo Short Round, while Antonio Banderas shows up out of nowhere as an old buddy who apparently has just been waiting around with his crew to do a big favor for Indy.

Even when the stakes are enormous and the threats are real, Indiana seems more resigned to being forced into one last big adventure than excited and charged to be back in the game. Trust us, Indy; we know how you feel. 

Copyright 2022 Chicago Sun-Times

PHOTO COURTESY IMDB

Aging Gracefully at Home

While aging is inevitable, it doesn’t mean you can’t do so with grace and style. For many seniors hoping to look and feel their best, there are plenty of options, from the clothing they wear to products they use every day. Choosing more ‘stylish’ safety accessories is one way to go.

To improve quality of life and inspire confidence, Medline, a leading provider of consumer medical products, teamed up with Martha Stewart to introduce the Martha Stewart Home Comfort Care Collection. The line of design-inspired safety and mobility products combines sophisticated design and dependability to help those who use them look and feel their best.

“We are excited to enter into this unique partnership,” said Dawn Freitag, Medline senior marketing manager. “Martha Stewart’s signature style has always set the standard for better, more enjoyable living and this line of mobility and bath safety products is no exception. We believe these fashionable, modern designs along with our top-rated quality and value pricing will help seniors live their happiest, healthiest lives with exceptional safety, security and style.”

Consider these supportive care products to maximize style and safety, and find the full collection by visiting athome.medline.com.

Around the Home

The right mobility aid can help you navigate your home. One option, the Adjustable Rolling Walker, combines

a chic, sporty checked pattern with renowned functional features to help you easily stand and walk safely and independently. Its smooth-rolling, all-terrain wheels make it easy to get around in or outside of your home while push-down, locking brakes are ready for a rest stop at any time. Plus, it easily folds for travel and storage, and features under-seat storage and adjustable easy-grip handles for a custom fit and fashionable function.

For the Bathroom

The most essential purpose of bathroom safety aids is to prevent falls on wet, slippery surfaces. Beyond securely attached bath mats and grab bars, the Martha Stewart Euro-Style Shower Chair allows you to sit while showering for extra peace of mind. With built-in handgrips and a backrest for comfort, the rust-resistant chair also features adjustable, push-button height settings to improve stability and built-in Microban protection to resist mold and mildew.

In the Bedroom

There are numerous products designed to maximize rest, relaxation and safety in and around your bed. To help you get in and out of bed, an Adjustable Bed Assist Bar slides around the side of the mattress — without floor legs that may pose a tripping hazard — to offer support. With a stylish faux woodgrain bag design and neutral color, the bar seamlessly blends in with bedding and linens to provide both function and flair.

(Family Features) 

• Dementia is more common among people with untreated hearing loss.

• People with untreated hearing loss report more concerns about their memory than people with normal hearing.

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

Santa Clarita Menu Guide

Thai Dishes (Valencia)

Egg Plantation

Everest Burgers

Fire Island Grill

Eating is Believing!

We’re an authentic Thai Restaurant with many years of experience, cooking noodles, rice, seafood, curries using the freshest ingredients. We are located next to the 99 cents store on Valencia Blvd. Come try our yellow chicken curry and shrimp PAD SEE-EW. They’re Delicious!

23328 Valencia Blvd. Valencia, ca. 91355 (661) 253-3663

Funburger

About Egg Plantation

WE ARE KNOWN FOR OUR WARM, ATTENTIVE HOSPITALITY, DELICOUS FRESH COOKED FOOD AND QUAINT CAFE CHARM.

We specialize in breakfast including 101 omelets. We offer specialty espresso beverages and a full bar serving the best Bloody Marys around using our in house recipe.

24415 Walnut St Newhall, CA. 91321 661-255-8222

Pho Sure

Open for breakfast, lunch, dinner and catering. We have Breakfast burritos, avocado bacon cheese burgers, grilled chicken salads, carne asada fries, avocado and bacon sandwiches. We serve quality food and generous portions.

18645 Soledad Cyn Rd. Santa Clarita , 91351 (661) 252-3412

Jersey Mike’s

COMING SOON

We are a quick casual restaurant serving an Island Fusion Flavor. We serve a variety of Rice Bowls, Salads, and Sandwiches. All our sauces and dressings are made in house. We offer in dining service, catering, to go orders, and delivery services.

19335 Plum Canyon Road Suite A Santa Clarita 91350

Newhall Refinery

Delicious food served with a smile. Funburger offers American fare with an elevated twist. Large screens and sound systems ensure sports viewing is comfortable. Wine and beer lovers rejoice with rotating selections of 40 beers on draft and regional wines served by glass or flight.

23460 Cinema Dr Unit J Santa Clarita, CA 91355 (661) 753-3124

Pho Sure signature dish is our Authentic Vietnamese beef noodle soups; however, we do offer an array of rice, dry noodle dishes as well as Vietnamese curry, Banh Hoi and Pho Ap Chao. We welcome you to Pho Sure because we trust that you will like what you try, Pho Sure!

23876 Copperhill Dr Valencia, Ca 91354 (661) 257-3888

At Jersey Mike’s, we offer a sub above — one that’s measured in more than inches or seconds ‘til served. We carefully consider every aspect of what we do — every slice, every sandwich, every store — we provide our customers with sustenance and substance too.

9 Locations in SCV, visit www. JerseyMikes.com for the one nearest you.

Newhall’s first gastropub located in the heart of Old Town Newhall, has the valley’s finest selection of craft beer with twenty rotating craft beers in our custom draught system. A fine selection of wines and amazing handcrafted cocktails, and a taste for everyone from our specialty blend craft burgers to delicious chef created entrees.

24258 Main Street Newhall Ca. 91321

661-388-4477

Numero Uno Pizza

Pierogi Spot

Everest Burgers

The restaurant is entirely family owned and operated and they’ve been doing it since 1993!!. The service is excellent and very friendly. The establishment carries fantastic pasta and Chicago style deep-dish pizza, not to mention the fresh made salads, sandwiches and appetizers.

26111 Bouquet Canyon Rd

Santa Clarita, 91350 (661) 259-3895

L’Italiano Restaurant

One and only Polish food restaurant in Santa Clarita valley. Best comfort food in town. We specialize in serving house made pierogi, sausages, cabbage rolls, stews, schnitzels, and desserts on fire… Every meal includes Free daily soup and fresh salad. Give us a try, You won’t be disappointed!!!

26511 Golden Valley Rd

Santa Clarita , 91350 (661) 254-4850

Neighbarista

As family-owned and -operated restaurants, we make it our business to use only the freshest ingredients and serve the most generous portions in town.  Our menu offers a variety of options, whether your in the mood for a hearty breakfast, light lunch, or end-of-the-day, well deserved, satisfying dinner.

Some of our popular dishes include Bacon Breakfast Burritos, Pastrami Sandwiches, Gyro Wraps, and Asada Tostada Salads.  Everest is wildly popular, offering mountainous portions of great quality food!

L’Italiano Restaurant — The Truffle Hunter — Located in the heart of Santa Clarita offers a welcoming environment and warm staff to serve you. You’ll find mouth-watering traditional Italian food prepared fresh to order, made with pride. Dine in for the full experience, ordering pickup or delivery online is available.

23460 Cinema Dr A Santa Clarita, CA 91355 (661) 476-5618

Breakfast elevated in the Santa Clarita Valley. A welcoming atmosphere and excellent service paired with excellent food. Everything served is made inhouse and they offer a variety of unique dishes. You are likely to fall in love with their breakfasts and lunches.

23120 Lyons Ave #24 Newhall, CA 91321 (661) 288-2217

GARDENING

Things to Know When Gardening in a Chaparral Biome

By Jane Gates Signal Staff Writer

Now that we are officially heading into summer, chances are we will not be seeing a lot of cloud cover or many days under 90 degrees, if any, for at least the next couple of months. That means that working in the garden will be best done during the coolest hours of the day.

We do not live in the desert, but we are mostly in a biome called chaparral (made famous by the “High Chaparral” TV show from 1967-71).

The chaparral is actually a description of the tough, brittle, natural vegetation that grows here, adapted by hundreds of years in dry, hot summers with cooler, moister winters that, in higher elevations like ours, used to experience nighttime frosts.

What this all means to us in Santa Clarita, is simply that we can expect desert-like heat and dryness that is often attributed to the Mojave or Sahara. But our soil, flora and terrain is different.

So, how do we garden in the SCV chaparral summer?

Clean Up and Clean Out

First, we make sure that brush on the hills and in open areas, dead stuff in the gardens and gutters are all

cleared out. Wildfires took the winter off this year, but you don’t want any of these fire-fuel sources to invite disaster to your home now that dry, toasty summer has arrived.

Grass will need cutting and edging. Since they are high-maintenance water-guzzlers, keep lawn areas to where they will be most useful.

Keep pulling out weeds while they are small and before they get established in your garden or lawn areas. Our local weeds quickly form tough, deep roots.

Mulch or Pebbles

Add a top layer of compost as

mulch. It works as a barrier to keep out the heat of the beating sun while slowing evaporation and locking in precious water around plant roots. For California natives and drought-tolerant plants, mulch with small twigs and stones — the usual stuff that covers our non-cultivated land.

Irrigate Early

Irrigate early in the morning — on or before sunrise is best. Check water systems during the day to make regular adjustments you might miss if you are still asleep when your irrigation goes on. If water pools or runs off anywhere, cut down the application time and turn it off for 15 minutes or more to soak into the soil. Then, set it to run again.

Also, check drip irrigation systems for breaks and leaks. Rabbits are notorious for chomping into plastic tubing.

Deadhead and Prune

All plants will bloom longer if you keep them deadheaded. This means that you want to cut off wilting flowers before they set seed. Setting seed will drain the plant of energy.

Deadheading is particularly effective with annuals that typically want to keep blooming in order to set as much seed as they can before they die. These are short-lived plants that will only last a single season anyway, so they will keep blooming in the attempt to set more seed if you keep

spent flowers removed.

Prune plants lightly for shape and to cut out dead or crossing branches. July is not a good time for heavy pruning.

New Plantings

If you do any new planting, water the newcomers daily for at least a week, especially if they are in sun. And if you can shade them for the first day or two in July heat, they will appreciate it. You can plant at this time of year, but even tough natives will have to be coddled.

Spend hot days designing ideas for new features in your garden. Autumn will be here sooner than you think and that will be a good time for outdoor projects. With the constant rise in the cost of — well, everything! — building materials and construction should probably be planned for sooner than later. So if you want to add a hot tub, a fire pit, an outdoor room, a water feature or a barbecue, these will all add value to your house in the future while you get to enjoy them as long as you live in your home.

July may be good for vacationing and hiding in the air conditioning. But there are plenty of things to do in the garden, especially in the cooler hours of the day.

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

The chaparral boasts wonderful wildflower populations.

Controling Asthma When Outdoor Air Quality is Bad

Asthma, a lung disease that makes breathing difficult for more than 24 million Americans, is often exacerbated by air pollution and the effects of climate change. However, understanding how the environment impacts asthma can help you minimize your exposure to air pollutants and prepare for extreme weather events.

As part of its Promoting Asthma Friendly Environments through Partnerships and Collaborations Project, the American Lung Association is offering these important insights: Outdoor Air Pollution While outdoor air pollution can make breathing more difficult for everyone, it’s particularly harmful to those with asthma, causing symptoms and increased need for medical attention.

Children with asthma can be especially vulnerable to experiencing negative health effects caused by air pollution.

Climate Change The effects of climate change increase air pollutants such as ozone, particle pollution pollens, molds from increased rainfall and floods, and smoke from wildfires. As temperatures increase, warmer air helps to form ground-level ozone pollution, also known as smog, a powerful air pollutant.

Before doing any activities outside, check the pollution level in your area by visiting Airnow.gov. When the air is bad, limit the time you and family members spend outdoors and try to move outdoor activities inside.

Wildfires In some areas climate change is increasing the frequency and intensity of wildfires, and extending wildfire season. Wildfires produce smoke that contains particle pollution, consisting of dangerous particles tiny enough to travel deep into the lungs and sometimes even into the bloodstream.

Particle pollution can cause asthma attacks, heart attacks, lung cancer and early death. But you don’t need to live in an area prone to wildfire to be impacted.

Check out American Lung Association’s resources, which includes information about using N-95 masks for protection and creating a clean

room inside your home. Visit lung. org/clean-air/emergencies-and-natural-disasters/ wildfires to learn more.

Taking Action Did you know you can reduce your own contribution to air pollution and climate change? Prioritize walking, biking and public transit over diesel or gasoline-powered vehicles.

Conserve electricity and purchase your power from clean, non-combustion sources if you can.

When looking for a place to live or upgrading your home, look for efficient, zero-emission appliances such as induction stoves or heat pumps.

If poor air quality, wildfires, pollen and mold cause asthma symptoms or flare-ups, follow your asthma action plan and call your doctor if your

symptoms don’t improve or get worse.

To get your asthma under control, check out the American Lung Association’s many resources, found at

www.lung.org/lung-health-diseases/ lung-disease-lookup/asthma, which align with the CDCs EXHALE strategies. (StatePoint) 

HOME

Five Must-Haves for Outdoor Entertaining

Gatherings and get-togethers may commonly take place inside, but giving your guests extra space takes nothing more than a little creativity and the right outdoor appliances. Open a new door — literally — and head outside to take advantage of unused deck, patio and yard space.

As a natural extension of your home, a few key pieces of lighting, heating and cooking equipment can turn your backyard into an entertaining oasis. Let your personal style shine and elevate your hosting skills with these ideas from the experts at the Propane Education & Research Council.

Lighting

Flame lighting may not be every homeowner’s first consideration, but more hosts are relying on it to add upscale elegance to outdoor gatherings.

Custom lanterns, modern chandeliers, pendants and tabletop units offer stylish additions to modern and classic designs alike.

No matter your tastes, propane flame lighting fixtures can be placed in multiple areas for aesthetic and practical purposes. While it’s hard to top the soothing effect of a starry

night while calming flames reflect off your windows and add a glow to your patio, flame lighting also can ward off intruders or animals and help prevent tripping in the dark.

Grills, Cooking Equipment

Propane can help you bring your dream kitchen to life outdoors. First establish a budget and identify a builder then build out the features of your high-performing kitchen in the peaceful setting nature offers. Often, the centerpiece of the space are grills, which are available in a variety of sizes and styles. Some offer features like side burners for sauces and rotisseries.

Because they heat up fast and provide precise temperature control, propane-powered outdoor cooking appliances are a popular choice for homeowners who want to spend less time preparing food and more time enjoying it.

With instant on-off convenience just like indoor gas ranges, outdoor propane grills, pizza ovens and ovens help home chefs create perfectly cooked meals with no coals, soot or ash to clean up. The appliances can also be built in to a straight, L-shape or U-shape bar to complete your outdoor cooking paradise.

Patio Heaters

If chilly weather brings on the blues, make the most of your outdoor space with a propane-powered patio heater that allows for entertaining nearly year-round. Propane patio heaters

can raise the outdoor air temperature up to 25 F while emitting a circle of radiant heat up to 25 feet in diameter. Next time you want to get outside before patio season arrives, start up a propane patio heater to enjoy cozy warmth in a clean, safe, reliable way.

Fireplaces and Fire Pits

Another option for bringing warmth to outdoor entertaining can happen with the push of a button in the form of a propane fireplace or fire pit.

These smokeless solutions come without the maintenance of wood-burning fires, meaning you can enjoy the heat and ambiance of flames dancing in the night sky while skipping the fuss of soot, ash and burning logs.

Plus, clean-energy propane delivers heat more efficiently with a lower carbon footprint than traditional energy sources like wood, which take a toll on the environment.

Pool Heaters

You can maximize your fun for as much of the year as possible and combat the elements with propane pool and spa heaters. Available for in-ground and above ground pools and spas, propane heaters operate at a higher efficiency than electric systems and maintain heat better in cooler weather while also operating cleanly and taking up minimal space.

To find more outdoor entertaining inspiration, visit Propane.com. (Family Features) 

PHOTO CREDIT GETTY IMAGES

Vet-Approved Tips to Help Keep Pets Safe this Summer

Extreme temperatures and booming sounds can have big impacts on pets. With record-breaking heat across much of the nation, the experts at Freshpet are helping pet parents with these tips to help keep their pets healthy and safe this summer.

Heat

Heat stroke can occur quickly in dogs. Without the ability to sweat the same way humans do, it’s important for pet parents to understand ways to cool their pets down when temperatures rise and how to avoid common mistakes to keep their pets safe.

“Just because we can manage the heat and humidity, doesn’t mean our pets can,” said Dr. Aziza Glass, Freshpet’s expert veterinarian. “Our pets are vulnerable to temperatures over 80 F. However, there are things we can do to keep our pets safe and protected from heat-related injuries and some may come as a surprise.”

Limit Time Outdoors

While outdoor activities are typically recommended for pets, their inability to sweat the same way humans

do can cause them to heat up quickly. Limit walks to early morning or after the sun sets and stay indoors as much as possible the rest of the day.

Fill Their Water Bowls

Just like humans, clean water is essential for helping pets manage the heat. Cool water can help cool down your pet’s body temperature. Moisture-rich fresh food like options

Signs of Osteoarthritis in Dogs

Canines can feel the effects of osteoarthritis, just like their human companions. In fact, OA is a common ailment found in older dogs as well as some larger breeds that are genetically prone to developing arthritis, according to Old Farm Veterinary Hospital in Maryland.

OA is a degenerative joint disease characterized by progressively worsening inflammation of the joints caused by the deterioration of cartilage. While there is no cure for OA, identifying the condition as early as possible can improve the quality of a dog’s life and keep the animal active for a longer period of time. Unfortunately, it can be difficult to detect OA in dogs in its early stages. Here are some signs of OA, courtesy of VCA Animal Hospitals and the American Kennel Club.

• Stiffness in the shoulders, hips, elbows, and knees, where OA is found most often.

• Difficulty getting up and down.

• Lameness in one or more legs.

• Yelping when touched, as inflammation can cause affected areas to be sensitive.

• Irritability in a normally easygoing pet. Dogs may snap or bite when someone tries to touch them or become defensive around other dogs.

• Difficulty posturing to urinate or defecate, which may cause pets to have accidents in the house.

• Loss of muscle mass over the limbs and spine.

• Fatigue and loss of interest in activities.

• Licking, chewing or biting at painful spots, which can cause hair loss and inflamed skin in the affected area.

If pet owners suspect their dogs are experiencing osteoarthritis, they should reach out to their veterinarians right away to find out what can be done to help the animals feel more comfortable. (MC) 

from Freshpet — made with 100% farm-raised chicken, beef or fish and all-natural fruits and veggies — can also help with hydration.

Avoid Shaving Your Pet

While summer cuts for long-haired dogs are OK, shaving your pet can

expose his or her skin to harmful sun damage and cause overheating more quickly.

Glass recommends pet parents educate themselves on how to recognize heat stroke. Heavy panting, drooling, high body temperature, increased heart rate and fatigue are some signs of heat stroke in dogs.

“If you believe your dog is having a heat stroke, bring him or her indoors immediately to help cool down,” she said. “A common mistake is putting the pet in a cold ice bath. That can actually shock the system and cause quick changes in blood pressure. Instead, soak a towel in room temperature water and wipe your dog down to start the cooling process. Afterwards, proceed immediately to your primary care veterinarian or closest emergency center.”

For more summer safety tips for pets, visit Freshpet.com. (Family Features)

PHOTO COURTESY GETTY IMAGES

SOLUTIONS

Refereeing a Letter Spat

Let’s try to clear the air, in regard to consideration of the spat between Gary Morrrison and the uber submitter, Brian Richards, on the debt limit opinion Brian penned way back on May 24.

It is just one of many disputes Richards has spawned, inasmuch as his excessive submission rate is a substitution of quantity for quality as it does resemble the Costco or Walmart or Dollar Store “value proposition”: Pile ’em high and sell ’em cheap.

Let’s descend down a rabbit hole nested within a Russian doll of “he said/she said” involving no less than three published, aging, opinions in confusion.

I disagree with the June 28 assessment Richards submitted: He claims Morrison’s June 2 submission was committing the logical fallacy of an argument from authority. Yet there was no argument in the June 2 Morrison letter. It was merely a single question. Perhaps for Richards the question IS an argument. The June 2 question COULD have been an argument from authority if it asserted a claim of authority as patent evidence of factual superiority, but no such claim was made. Instead, the Morrison June 2 submission was a rhetorical ad hominem, set to bait the habitual responder, Richards.

Richards would LIKE to believe his submission on May 24 was economic analysis, but it was not. There were tiny factoids, loosely linked to an inference that the debt limit and default by the U.S. Treasury are ... uh ... I really could not determine what Richards was trying to assess about the debt limit. The case Richards made was too superficial to regard as reasonable, rational analysis.

Thus, the Richards May 24 opinion was not economic analysis at all. It was mere rhetoric.

Mainly, the May 24 Richards rhetoric was an attempt to transfer full responsibility for the debt crisis to Joe Biden. But the debt crisis was a problem that Congress created when they approved as-yet-unfunded spending bills in November 2022, then cast their legislation in doubt by self-deception and denial that the Treasury would HAVE to borrow in order to fully fund what they’d committed to. They dragged us through this in order to, apparently, prove their superiority as drama queens.

Congratulations, Congress, you win!

The Morrison June 2 ad hominem did ask a valid and unaswered question: Where is that economic degree? However, there is no need to answer. Rhetoric does not require expertise nor authority.

Christopher Lucero Saugus

ETHICALLY SPEAKING

Truth, Trust and Tolerance

By David Hegg

Afew weeks ago, as we were returning home to SoCal, we entered California at the Dorris, California, checkpoint. When asked if we had any produce, we indicated we had a bag of cherries purchased in Bend, Oregon. The California border agent said he needed to see them so I passed a full bag of plump, juicy cherries out the window to him. He took it, scanned the bag, and quickly announced “these are under quarantine since they were grown in Washington State.” He noticed the disgust registered on my face and tried to soften the blow by saying, “Hey, you can pull out of line and eat them here if you want, but you can’t take them into California.”

So, we surrendered the bag and started down the freeway. It didn’t take long for me to start processing what had just happened. My first thought was that I really didn’t trust the guy. Did he just see some great cherries and decide to have them for lunch? Did they really pose a threat to California? And it also seemed strange that, if they were so harmful, how come he suggested we pull to the side and eat them? Finally, the greater scope of things hit me when my friend Chris, responding to a text detailing our loss, said, “So, thousands can flood across our southern border bringing deadly drugs but our government is neck-deep in an all-out war on cherries?”

But I had to stop myself because I was evidencing the grave effects of a solitary death that has wreaked havoc on our nation. A plague has swept over us, and yet it had only one victim. Even so, it is hard to find someone who hasn’t been devastated by it.

Of course, I am speaking about the death of trust.

Like a vast and growing majority of people in our nation, we find it hard to trust. We are skeptical about government, the news media, cherry-grabbing border agents, and increasingly, one another. It seems a steady stream of lies, half-lies and halftruths spewing from those we once trusted to be good and do good has almost completely rendered our trust gene dormant.

And this growing skepticism has even leeched into our daily lives and relationships. We all understand that trust is essential to civil society. But what we are blind to is that trust is the foundation of tolerance, and tolerance is the glue that holds a nation of multiple ethnicities and ideologies together.

The reason we can’t tolerate those with whom we differ today is because, down deep, we don’t trust who they are. Consequently, in the death of trust, we also are experiencing the death of tolerance.

Technically, tolerance is an attitude of putting up with those with whom we differ. Tolerance presupposes there are differences and yet, in order to get along, we tolerate our opponents as fellow human beings, Americans and neighbors. We find ways to work together for the common good while still maintaining our differences.

But, with the death of trust, tolerance has gone from being a mature and honorable tension to being a binary state of war because trust has been evaporated from the equation. Let me explain: Historically, there have always been ethical binaries. That is, ethical pairs that were either/or. For example, something is either right or wrong, good or evil, black or white, up or down. But many ethical components are non-binary — think on a spectrum. For example, cold, cool, tepid, warm, hot. Throughout history, tolerance was non-binary. It was more needed when relating to those who differed greatly, less so with those more aligned with us.

But, today, the ethics of tolerance have become binary, either/or, and this has eliminated the basic meaning of tolerance altogether.

Today, love and hate are binary. If you don’t love something, if you don’t agree, don’t applaud, and don’t acknowledge ideas or behavior as ethically acceptable, then you are a hater. Consequently, there is no longer a sense of tolerance. The whole concept has been wiped from the page of society in our day. When it comes to our enemies, we don’t tolerate, we terminate.

And why has this awful, horrible, mean streak made its way into our society? The answer is simple. We don’t trust people any more.

So, what’s the answer? Historically, the trust that allowed for tolerance was deeper than ideologies, political desires, or ethnic differences. It was based on a shared humanity, a shared desire to thrive, to do good, and pass on an honorably legacy to the next generation. To do so, a people had to agree fundamentally on something that transcended the brokenness of this world. It had to undergird the very fiber of their lives and be so right, so intuitive, that it was as if it came pre-installed on the human hard drive.

Apparently, our leaders of the 20th century understood this, and decided to remind us of this core ethical foundation by inscribing it on every piece of our money. They found the standard of truth, trust and tolerance when they wrote, “In God We Trust.”

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

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