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Over the last three years many of us have put off important routine medical screenings. Please discuss with your physician what screenings you may be due for. These routine medical tests can be life-saving.

For more information, call 661.200.1332 or visit henrymayo.com/screenings.

15%

Please present this coupon to the host upon arrival and receive 15% discount on Dinner Sunday through Thursday Excludes tax & gratuity. Not valid with other offers, holidays or special events

New Ways Doctors are Treating Cellulite

Bothered by cellulite? You’re not alone. There are new way doctors are treating it. At age 47, Jamie loves to exercise, running during the summer and going to the gym to work out during the winter.

Between running and weightlifting, Jamie is active, strong and energetic enough to keep up with her four boys. Even with her active lifestyle, she has struggled with cellulite since her teenage years.

“I noticed cellulite back in high school, and I would wear leggings under my jeans to offset the dimples in my legs,” said Jamie.

“I have dresses in my wardrobe that I’ve never worn, and shorts sitting in my closet. I just don’t have the confidence to wear them because of my cellulite.”

What Jamie didn’t know was that her cellulite has nothing to do with her lifestyle or habits, and up to 90% of women have it, though most women don’t like to talk about it. Many women don’t know exactly what it is, or what causes it, thinking it has something to do with diet and exercise — which are common misconceptions.

Jamie is just one of many women who are impacted by cellulite throughout their lives. For some women, cellulite can have a significant emotional impact, influencing decisions about the clothes they choose to wear, activities they choose to do and even how they perceive themselves. However, having cellulite shouldn’t stop you from wearing and doing what you want.

Cellulite is Complicated

What exactly is cellulite? While the answer is complex, the good news is that cellulite does not result from something you did or didn’t do — and it’s not your fault if you have it. Cellulite is thought to be based more on genetics and hormones. Research shows that a major underlying cause of cellulite dimples are septa — fibrous bands that tether the skin to the structures below.

More recently, research was done that found the septa actually form a complicated, honeycomb-like structure that is much more complex than historically understood.

Septa are different for each woman, and can also be different in various parts of the body. Some septa are good — and serve a purpose — but in certain parts of the body, it is believed they can stiffen and shrink over time, causing dimples on the buttocks or thighs that are commonly called cellulite.

Lasting Results are Possible

There are many different products and treatments claiming to fix cellulite, but many make promises to women they can’t deliver on, approaching cellulite blindly from the outside in.

Fortunately, a new, targeted approach with an FDA-cleared device called Avéli addresses cellulite from the inside out to deliver long-term reduction in the appearance of cellulite after a single treat-

ment. Avéli is a device used by a trained provider during a minimally invasive procedure performed with local anesthesia in the treatment area. It’s the only procedure where the provider can identify the culprit septa under the skin, and then confirm in real time that they are releasing those targeted septa. Women see a long-term reduction in the appearance of cellulite dimples quickly after a single in-office procedure, with little to no downtime.

“Cellulite impacts almost all women across the globe and due to its complex structure, it has been historically tricky to treat,” said board-certified dermatologist Anna Paré, MD. “An in-office treatment I can do in about an hour, Avéli releases the fibrous bands causing dimples to improve the appearance of cellulite in the buttocks and thighs. Women can anticipate starting to see initial results in the days following the procedure.”

During recovery, you may experience bruising, soreness and tenderness within the first thirty days. Rest is recommended post procedure, but typically you will be back to normal activities in just a day or two and can resume more strenuous workouts within a couple weeks.

Start the Cellulite Conversation

If you’re one of the many women bothered by cellulite, and especially if you’ve tried other treat-

ments with lackluster results, rest assured there are new options now available that will end that skepticism.

“As a board-certified plastic surgeon specializing in body contouring, long-lasting cellulite reduction has been impossible to achieve, until now,” said Matthew Schulman, MD. “Avéli represents the missing piece for women looking to reduce the appearance of their cellulite dimples as a part of their lower body rejuvenation treatment plan — an increasing trend I’ve seen in my practice.”

Jamie chose Avéli to treat her cellulite, and she has been very satisfied with her results. “I’ve really noticed that I don’t have the dimples that I had before. I look in the mirror every day and am in awe,” she said. “For all the ladies out there that have suffered with cellulite for years and years like I have, this could be the procedure for you.”

It’s time to feel more comfortable talking about cellulite so you can take action like Jamie did. If it bothers you, bring it up with your medical aesthetics provider. For those looking to learn more, you can visit MyAveli.com or follow @aveli on Instagram to see real patient results. Hear more of Jamie’s story at https://youtu.be/rIva8r9DqSo. (BPT) 

DANGEROUS JOBS America’s 10 Most

By Oakley Lowe Special to The Signal

America’s most dangerous jobs have been revealed in a new analysis of Bureau of Labor Statistics data.

Personal injury lawyers Agruss Law Firm analyzed fatal occupational injury data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) to uncover which jobs have the highest rate of fatal injuries per 100,000 workers.

1. Logging Workers

82.2 deaths per 100,000 workers

Median salary — $46,330

Logging workers were found to have the highest fatal injury rate of any job, at 82.2 deaths per 100,000 workers. Logging workers are responsible for cutting down and harvesting timber from forests to provide the raw materials for consumer and industrial products.

Logging workers are split up into several sub-categories, but it is ‘Fallers’, those whose job it is to cut down trees with hand-held power chainsaws, that are at the highest risk. In fact, Fallers accounted for 33 of the 43 recorded fatal injuries sustained by loggers throughout 2022. The majority of these fatalities are a result of contact with a machine or object, such as a log, according to the Occupational Outlook Handbook.

2. Fishing and Hunting Workers

75.2 deaths per 100,000 workers

Median salary — $31,382

Fishing and hunting workers were found to have the second highest fatal injury rate, at 72.5 deaths per 100,000 workers. These workers are responsible for catching and trapping various forms of animal life which are used for human consumption, animal feed and bait. Their duties include locating fish or wild animals, safely storing and packing their catch and operating and maintaining nets, traps and onboard equipment.

Fishing workers account for most of these fatalities, where the largest cause of death is drowning. This is commonly caused by slippery decks, entan-

glement in fish nets and being knocked over deck by large waves or storms.

3. Roofers

59 deaths per 100,000 workers

Median salary — $47,110

Roofers were found to have the third highest fatal injury rate at 59 deaths per 100,000 workers. They are responsible for the installation, repair and replacement of roofs for both commercial and domestic buildings.

The most common cause of fatalities for roofers is slipping and falling from scaffolding, ladders or roofs, with Falls, slips and trips accounting for 96 out of the 115 recorded deaths in 2022. Completing physically demanding work also puts roofers at an increased risk of heat-related illnesses when working outside during the hot summer months.

4. Aircraft Pilots and Flight Engineers

48.1 deaths per 100,000 workers

Median salary — $134,630

Aircraft pilots and flight engineers rank as having the fourth most dangerous jobs, with a fatal injury rate of 48.1 deaths per 100,000 workers.

Those working as Commercial pilots account for most of these fatal injuries. Out of 68 recorded deaths of aircraft pilots and flight engineers in 2022, 59 of those were commercial pilots. Commercial pilots are responsible for unscheduled flight activities such as chartered flights, rescue operations, firefighting and crop dusting, rather than standard consumer flights, which are completed by airline pilots.

5. Structural Iron and Steel Workers

36.1 deaths per 100,000 workers

Median salary — $58,550

Structural iron and steel workers rank as the fifth most dangerous job, with a fatal injury rate of 36.1 deaths per 100,000 workers. Structural iron and steel workers are responsible for erecting, placing and joining steel girders and columns to form the frameworks for buildings and bridges.

Iron and steel workers are often required to work at elevated heights in order to carry out their job.

Despite safety measures being in place, Falls, slips and trips were found to be the biggest cause of fatal injuries for workers in these occupations, accounting for 9 out of 14 recorded deaths in 2022.

6. Driver/Sales Workers and Truck Drivers

28.8 deaths per 100,000 workers

Median salary — $36,660

Driver/sales workers and truck drivers rank as the sixth most dangerous job, with a fatal injury rate of 28.8 deaths per 100,000 workers. Workers in these occupations are responsible for picking up, transporting and delivering packages and shipments.

Transportation incidents were found to be the most common cause of death for this occupation, with 814 deaths due to roadway incidents in 2022 alone.

7. Refuse and Recyclable Materials Collectors

27.9 deaths per 100,000 workers

Median salary — $38,500

Refuse and recyclable materials collectors ranked as the seventh most dangerous job with 27.9 deaths per 100,000 workers. Workers in this occupation are responsible for collecting and dumping refuse or recyclable materials from containers, with some workers driving the truck itself.

Much like truck drivers, transportation incidents are the leading reported cause of death for refuse and recyclable materials collectors. Transportation incidents were responsible for 14 deaths of workers with this occupation in the latest figures from 2022

8. Underground Mining Machine Operators

26.7 deaths per 100,000 workers

Median salary — $48,651

Underground mining machine operators were found to have the eighth most dangerous job, with 26.7 deaths per 100,000 workers. The occupation involves using machines to remove coal, metal,

By Michele E. Buttelman Signal Staff Writer

There’s nothing like a California summers. As the temperature rises so do the options for fun in the sun. Beaches, golf courses, theme parks, road trips, theater under the stars, farmers markets, concerts, fairs, festivals and food events galore mean you always can find something to do in the summer in California.

Festival of Arts of Laguna Beach

Pageant of the Masters

650 Laguna Canyon Road, Laguna Beach 92651

Info www.foapom.com

Festival of Arts Pageant of the Masters celebrates the 90th anniversary of the first presentation of “living pictures” at the Festival of Arts. This year’s theme “Art Colony: In the Company of Artists” acknowledges the deep connections of the festival and pageant to the early artists who settled in Laguna Beach. It will also feature memorable stories of artists assisting one another through cooperation and fellowship in different eras and circumstances around the world.

Each night under the stars in the outdoor amphitheater, famous works of art are re-created with real people posing in elaborate sets in a 90-minute performance.

Enjoy the pageant’s blend of original music, storytelling and stage illusions. This is a one-of-a-kind, mustsee, bucket-list summer tradition in Southern California.

Leonardo da Vinci’s The Last Supper was first presented as the traditional finale in 1936. Since then, there have only been three years that da Vinci’s The Last Supper was not

Summer Fun in California

re-created in the show.

Tickets for the Pageants of the Masters are priced according to seating assignment and range from $45 to $160. Discounted tickets are available on select dates.

The Festival of Arts will also offer daily concerts on its outdoor stage through Sept. 1 featuring a variety of performers cover a variety of musical genres including jazz, soul, blues, pop, rockabilly, Motown and more.

The Festival Art Show will also run through Sept. 1 Monday-Thursday 4-11:30 p.m. and Friday-Sunday 10 a.m. to 11:30 p.m. More than 100 artists from Orange County make up the Fine Art Show. Meet the artists and browse their one-of-a-kind artwork.

On Thursdays at 5:30 p.m. through Aug. 31 enjoy “Art, Jazz, Wine and Chocolate.” Chocolate, wine and all that jazz sweeten up the Festival of Arts this summer. Sample a wide variety of wines specially selected and paired with gourmet chocolates. Cost: $25 (does not include Festival of Arts admission or reserved seating).

Make it a long weekend or midweek multi-day getaway. Laguna Beach is Southern California’s bohemian paradise with famous beaches and untouched wilderness. Laguna is home to over 20,000 acres of protected habitats, but also boasts a thriving downtown with art galleries and eateries.

Will Geer Theatricum

Botanicum

50th Anniversary Summer Season

1419 N. Topanga Canyon Blvd., Topanga 90290

Info www.theatricum.com

The anniversary season features four mainstage plays performed in repertory, including “Macbeth,” “A Midsummer Night’s Dream,” “Queen Marga-

ret’s Version of Shakespeare’s War of the Roses” and “A Perfect Ganesh.” The 50th Anniversary Weekend Gala will be held Aug. 4-6. Enjoy comedy improv with the Theatricum’s resident troupe, Off the Grid, at the end of each month, July 27, Aug. 31 and Sept. 28).

The company’s annual Under the Oaks salon series on Fridays in September.

Ventura County Fair

Aug. 2-13

Ventura County Fairgrounds, 10 W Harbor Blvd, Ventura 93001

Info venturacountyfair.org

The Ventura County Fair began in 1875 and the tradition continues with the 140th Ventura County Fair, “A Country Fair with Ocean Air.”

Entertainment includes Trace Ad-

kins, Patti LaBelle, 38 Special and more. Carnival rides, rodeo, animal and agriculture exhibits, horse show and more.

Santa Clarita Shakespeare Festival

Aug. 4-6 Valencia High School, 27801 Dickason Drive, Valencia 91355 Info www.scshakespearefest.org/ freeshakespeare

Santa Clarita Shakespeare, in association with the city of Santa Clarita will offer one of Shakespeare’s first comedies “Loves Labours Lost,” directed by Luck Hari on Friday, Aug. 4 and Saturday, Aug. 6 at 7 p.m. and Sunday, Aug. 7 at 5 p.m. Tickets can be reserved on eventbrite for this free Shakespeare event by visiting the website.

See FUN, page 7

Heritage Fire Napa will be held Aug. 20 at Charles Krug Winery in St. Helena. It is an outdoor culinary experience that brings together local chefs and memorable brands for a live-fire celebration. PHOTO COURTESY HERITAGE FIRE

Be Safe While Having Fun in the Sun

By Maria Renthrow For the Signal

With summer here, families across Southern California will be going swimming, grilling, hiking, camping, road tripping or boating as they celebrate the summer.

“Although enjoying some fun in the sun in the aftermath of COVID fatigue and an exceptionally wet and gloomy rainy season will be done by many people, it’s important to keep safety on top of your mind as you venture out this summer”, says Alma Lopez, MD, a specialist in family medicine with the Kaiser Permanente Panorama City Medical Center.

“If you’re going to spend a lot of time in the sun, remember to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water, and please wear that sunscreen of SPF 30 or higher to prevent damage to your skin. This is important for everyone, including people of color,” she said. “If you’re going to be around water, consider water resistant sunscreen. Either way, still reapply sunscreen throughout the day because sunscreen does wear off. If you’re going to be in the sun for more than two hours, no matter what the activities are, pack plenty of water and bring sunscreen with you for some touch-ups.”

One of the most important things when spending a lot of time outdoors is to maintain hydration while you’re out in the sun, Dr. Lopez stressed. Additionally, the risk of Heat Stress can come on unexpectedly, and if not realized, it can turn

Heritage Fire Napa

Aug. 20

into Heat Stroke quickly.

“Pay attention to your body,” advises Dr. Lopez. “If you experience headaches, lightheadedness, nausea, confusion, irritability or upset stomach, try to cool off, get out of the sun, and drink more water. If you’re not improving, please seek medical attention.”

Dr. Lopez also recommended the following:

• Bring all the necessities for a day in the sun — plenty of water, sunscreen, a hat and maybe even handheld fan if it’s hot outside.

• If you’re drinking alcohol, although it may feel like you’re hydrating, it does the opposite. As such, drink in moderation and make sure you’re balancing it with plenty of water intake, too. A good rule-of-thumb is to drink no more than one alcoholic beverage per hour. Never drive a vehicle or a boat while you’ve been drinking.

• Take breaks in a cool, shady place instead of spending all your time in the sun.

• Avoid heavy workouts or sports

during the hottest part of the day, typically between Noon and 4 p.m.

If you’re going swimming, remember the following, Dr. Lopez said:

• Keep an eye on your kids and avoid distractions like texting, reading, or socializing.

• If you’re on a beach or in a pool, make sure there’s a lifeguard on-duty or designate someone to keep an eye out, even if you’re out boating.

• If you or your children aren’t the best swimmers, there’s no shame in that. Wear those life vests or floaties (for the kids) proudly.

• Avoid drinking while swimming. Cramps, impaired judgment, disorientation, and drowning are unfortunate but true risks.

If you love hiking, it’s advisable to take some precautions for your safety, Dr. Lopez notes. They include:

• Consider avoiding hiking during the hottest time of the day (noon to 4 p.m.). Instead, get an early start.

• Wear light colors that reflect the sun’s rays rather than absorb them by dark colored clothes.

sive feast while taking in the sights and sounds of an open flame. Savor the flavors of diverse cuisine and premium beverages, all in a unique and unforgettable setting.

• Wear loose, lightweight breathable clothing – like nylon or polyester –to help regulate body temperatures.

• Wear sturdy shoes; avoid going barefoot or wearing flip flops.

• Wearing hats or bandanas that can be dunked in water to cool your head and neck are also great accessories to the hiking wardrobe.

• Remember that snakes do exist on some hiking trails. Rattle Snakes are the ones to keep your eye out for, Dr. Lopez said. They generally want to avoid you as much as you probably want to avoid them. However, to avoid them, consider the following:

• Stick to open trails with good visibility. If you hear the rattle, don’t panic, just try to stay clear.

• In the rare event that there’s a bite, do your best to stay calm but act quickly. Don’t place a tourniquet or pressure. Instead, remove anything that may constrict swelling such as your shoes or a watch depending upon where the bite is, and get to the hospital or call 911 as quickly as possible.

Dr. Lopez recommended carrying a little backpack for snacks, holding your cellphone in case of an emergency, and of course, keeping water for that hydration, as well as sunscreen. “Taking simple precautions will help ensure that you can enjoy the summer without putting your health at risk,” Dr. Lopez said. “That way, you’ll have fun, be safe, and avoid getting sick or hurt, which would spoil an otherwise perfect weekend for fun under the sun!” 

Mesa 92626

Info www.626nightmarket.com

The 626 Night Market is the largest Asian night market in the United States

Charles Krug Winey, 2800 Main St, St. Helena, 94574

Info heritagefiretour.com

Get fired up at heritage Fire Napa at Charles Krug Winery. Heritage Fire is an outdoor culinary experience that brings together local chefs and memorable brands for a live-fire celebration. With over 20 participants, guests will enjoy an all-inclu-

Ticket price includes unlimited food, beer, wine, cocktails and entertainment.

After indulging in each dish, the ‘Best Bite of the Day’ will be determined by the crowd and one champion will be announced.

626 Night Market

Aug. 25-27 4-11 p.m.

OC Fair and Event Center, 88 Fair Drive, Costa

This iconic Californian festival features 200+ food, merchandise, crafts, arts, games, music and entertainment attractions in an epic event that appeals to all ages. California’s famous 626 Night Market is inspired by the night markets of Asia. Think fair food and more! Mini 626 Night Markets are also offered throughout SoCal. Tickets are $5. See website for more locations and information.

FROM THE CITY MANAGER

Summer Nights Stay Alive with Santa Clarita Events

before and after wildland fires

By Ken Striplin Santa Clarita

The County of Los Angeles Fire Department reminds us that response efforts take community action and cooperation, and that prevention and preparation go hand in hand–as with the Ready! Set! Go! Your Wild Fire Action Plan:

Manager

There’s no shortage of exciting events for residents to attend this summer. From learning about different cultures, grabbing drinks with friends at a themed block party, rocking out to your favorite tribute band or watching a movie under the stars, there is something for everyone to enjoy during the summer months here in Santa Clarita.

The Celebrate event series, taking place on the second Friday of each month at the Canyon Country Community Center from 6:00 to 9:00 p.m., is a favorite that made its return for an anticipated second year. From live music and performances on the outdoor event stage, along with a large field space with activities such as arts and crafts, language lessons and more, Celebrate gives residents the opportunity to expand their knowledge of different cultures from around the world. The rest of the lineup includes the Tataviam on August 11 and ends with China on September 8.

Head down to the heart of our very own Old Town Newhall for SENSES Block Party, where you’ll find Main Street transformed into a different setting every third Thursday of the month from 7:00 to 10:00 p.m. through October. With an abundance of live music, food trucks, adult beverages and themed activities, this has been a recurring favorite. On August 17, Main Street will become a Renaissance Faire, complete with jousting and axe throwing. Represent your favorite sports team on September 21 for Tailgate, and the final SENSES Block Party will bring the ghosts and

ghouls to Old Town Newhall on October 19 for Monster Mash.

Earlier this month, Concerts in the Park, presented by Logix Federal Credit Union, made its return for another season featuring an array of talented tribute bands. Each Saturday night starting at 7:00 p.m., Central Park fills with concert-goers ready to sing along to their favorite bands. Food vendors arrive at 5:00 p.m., creating the perfect opportunity to claim your spot early for a picnic with your family. The rest of the lineup includes a 90s Rock Show on July 29, Savor: A Tribute to Santana on August 5, Twist on Taylor: A Tribute to Taylor Swift on August 12, August 19 brings back a crowd favorite, Queen Nation, and FABBA: A Tribute to Abba ends this year’s Concerts in the Park event series on August 26.

There’s a new way to watch movies this summer – under the stars. At a different City park or facility each month through October, watch a movie with your friends and family on the big screen at City Cinemas in the Park, presented by Henry Rodriguez State Farm. Bring your blankets and chairs to create the ultimate movie-watching experience, with or without popcorn, because food trucks will also be in attendance. The full movie lineup can be viewed at santa-clarita. com/City-Cinemas.

The summer season is filled with fun and engaging events to experience with your friends and family. For all events happening in Santa Clarita, please visit santa-clarita.com/ Events and I’ll see you there!

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

City

It’s impossible for California residents to ignore the reality that wildland fires are having a greater impact than ever before. The term “fire season” is now obsolete as wildfires burn year-round across the state. The state’s largest and most destructive fires have occurred in just the past three years.

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

Make Mornings a Breeze with Time-Saving Breakfasts

Mornings can be hectic enough with wakeup calls, preparing for work, getting the kids ready and so many other daily tasks. Add in the need (or desire, at least) for a nutritious breakfast, and starting a new day can feel downright exhausting.

Make your mornings easier with delicious, better-for-you meals you can make ahead of time using simple ingredients like Success Boil-in-Bag Tri-Color Quinoa, which offers a heat-safe, BPA-free and FDA-approved bag and is easily prepared in just 10 minutes. You don't have to know how to pronounce quinoa to enjoy its light, nutty flavor packed with protein and all nine essential amino acids.

As a good source of fiber, it's a perfect solution composed of a medley of red, black and white quinoa that can make these Ham, Cheese and Zucchini Breakfast Cups a breeze. They're an ideal on-the-go solution for weekday breakfast bites that fit your busy schedule.

Cook up a batch as part of your Sunday meal prep and enjoy a week's worth of tasty, simple cups for the entire family. Once the combination of green onions, cheddar, ham, quinoa and more have been cooked and cooled, they can be refrigerated for up to 1 week.

For a creamier, fruity, dairy-free option, these Quinoa Overnight Oats make for a satisfying breakfast you can grab from the fridge and take to the office. Loaded with whole grains, bananas, blueberries and pomegranate, they'll provide the energy you need to get through the day while saving time in the morning.

These tasty treats can also last up to 1 week in the refrigerator, but remember to wait to add any crunchy toppings, honey or syrup until you're ready to enjoy so those favorite ingredients stay fresh longer. Another pro tip: Once you're done preparing your sweet, nutritious breakfast for the week ahead, divide evenly into four resealable to-go containers to make weekday mornings as easy as possible.

Ham, Cheese and Zucchini

Breakfast Cups

Prep time 15 minutes

Cook time 25 minutes

Servings 12

1bag Success Tri-Color Quinoa nonstick cooking spray

1cup shredded cheddar cheese

1cup shredded zucchini

1/2cup diced ham

2eggs

1/4cup egg white

1/4cup sliced green onion

1/2teaspoon salt

1/4teaspoon black pepper

Prepare quinoa according to package directions. Preheat oven to 350 F.

Coat 12-cup muffin tin with nonstick cooking spray.

In large bowl, combine shredded cheddar cheese, shredded zucchini, diced ham, eggs, egg white, sliced green onion, salt and black pepper. Mix well. Spoon batter into prepared muffin tin.

Bake 25 minutes. Cool 5 minutes then remove to wire rack to cool completely.

Quinoa Overnight Oats

Prep time 15 minutes

Cook time 10 minutes

Servings 4

1bag Success Tri-Color Quinoa

2cups almond milk

1cup quick-rolled oats

2bananas, mashed

1/2teaspoon ground cinnamon

1cup fresh blueberries

1/2cup pomegranate seeds

Prepare quinoa according to package directions. Let cool completely.

In large bowl, combine almond milk, oats, bananas and cinnamon. Stir in quinoa and blueberries.

Cover and refrigerate overnight. Divide among four serving bowls and garnish with pomegranate seeds.

Tips: For added sweetness, drizzle with honey, maple syrup or agave syrup, to taste. For a grab-and-go breakfast, combine overnight oats mixture and divide in resealable, single-serving jars or containers. Seal and refrigerate overnight.

To find more weekday morning solutions using easy-to-make whole grains, visit Success Rice.com. (Family Features) 

Quinoa Overnight Oats

Ham, Cheese and Zucchini Breakfast Cups

ENTERTAINMENT

‘National Lampoon’s Vacation’ — Looking Back, Re-Release

By Richard Roeper Signal Contributing Writer

When John Hughes was working as an advertising copywriter at Leo Burnett in Chicago in the late 1970s, he was also freelancing for National Lampoon magazine — and one of his first published works was a rather long short story titled “Vacation ‘58,” which started:

“If Dad hadn’t shot Walt Disney in the leg, it would have been our best vacation ever!”

Told from the point of view of Clark Griswold’s son, and very loosely based on a cross-country road trip Hughes took with his family as a child, “Vacation ‘58” chronicled a wild journey filled with setbacks and misadventures and dark comedic developments, including the fate of a certain elderly aunt and, prior to that, her beloved dog.

Four years later, when “Vacation ‘58” was turned into a Warner Bros. feature film titled “National Lampoon’s Vacation,” with Hughes writing the screenplay and Harold Ramis directing, a good number of major plot points from the original work were integrated into the story — but there was no way Disney was going to lend its brand to the film, leading to Disneyland becoming Walley World, and the POV shifting to Chevy Chase’s Clark.

On the cusp of the 40th anniversary of the beloved classic comedy (back in theaters on Sunday) that spawned a number of sequels and made household names of those suburban Chicago Griswolds, we’re taking a look back at the making of “Vacation,” remembering some of elements from the film that resonate to this day — and catching up with Anthony Michael Hall, the original Rusty Griswold.

Buying the Family Truckster

With Lindsey Buckingham’s catchy “Holiday Road” setting the tone, “Vacation” opens with a montage of oldtimey travel postcards before taking us to “CHICAGO, ILLINOIS” and the lot of the seedy Lou Glutz Motors, where Clark is with his son, Rusty, expecting to pick up “the Antarctic Blue Super Sports Wagon with the CB and the optional Rally Fun Pack.”

Alas, Clark is no match for the oily salesman Ed (Eugene Levy), who manipulates Clark into taking home the ungainly, tanklike and wobbly Wagon Queen Family Truckster.

Speaking with us via Zoom from his home in California, Anthony Michael Hall said that was his first day of shooting the film after being cast as Rusty. (Lou Glutz Motors was actually a car lot in Burbank, California.)

“I was 14 years old,” says Hall, 55. “I grew up in New York City, and I had had this great meeting with [National Lampoon Inc. CEO] Matty Simmons and Harold Ramis, and they were just very kind and paternal with me as I was reading these scenes.” He got the job.

“Even as a kid, it wasn’t lost on me that I was standing on the shoulders of giants, as the saying goes. In the 1970s, I had to get permission to stay up late to watch ‘SNL.’ Now I’m in a movie with Chevy Chase, Eugene Levy … the talent pool [in the film] was amazing.”

Hall’s ‘Surreal’ Adolescence

In addition to the Griswold family, which included the marvelous Beverly D’Angelo as Ellen Griswold and the wonderful Dana Barron as Audrey, “Vacation” featured memorable supporting turns from Randy Quaid as the horrifically disgusting Cousin Eddie; John Candy as Lasky the security guard; showbiz legends Imogene Coca and Eddie Bracken as Aunt Edna and Roy Walley, respectively; Brian Doyle-Murray as the clerk at Kamp Komfort — the list goes on and on.

Says Hall: “I, like Rusty, was literally and figuratively looking up to everybody. That whole period of time [in the 1980s], when I look back on it, it’s like a yearbook coming to life. My life was kind of surreal, from the age of 14 through being cast on ‘Saturday Night Live’ [at 17, the youngest cast member ever]. I was on admittedly one of the worst seasons in the history of ‘SNL,’ but nonetheless, to be a part of that was incredible.

“I never met John on ‘Vacation.’ John was nowhere in sight. Then I did the trilogy of films with him after that [‘Sixteen Candles,’ ‘The Breakfast Club’ and ‘Weird Science’], and he was just so kind and good to me. It’s always important to me to tip my hat

and acknowledge what he and Matty and Harold did for me.

“John would always tell me he believed in the adage, ‘Write what you know,’ and when you see his film ‘She’s Having a Baby,’ which is about his life in Chicago at a certain point, it comes full circle, because the main character in ‘She’s Having a Baby’ would have been writing ‘Vacation ‘58’ right around that time.”

Drinking Beer with Dad

With cast and a crew of almost 100 going from location to location in sometimes brutally hot conditions, the making of “Vacation,” in a way, mirrored the plot of “Vacation,” with stops in Colorado and Arizona and eventually California. The house belonging to Cousin Catherine (Miriam Flynn) and her husband, Eddie (Quaid), is an actual house in Boone, Colorado, and was the site of scenes with such memorable dialogue as the pregnant Catherine saying, “Eddie says after the baby comes, I can quit one of my night jobs,” and their daughter, Vicki (Jane Krakowski in her first role), boasting, “I’m going steady, and I French kiss. ... Daddy says I’m the best at it.” Good. God.

As for the famous scene with father and son where Clark says, “I spent the last 15 years of my life developing newer and better food additives; I guess I’ve missed an awful lot” and hands Rusty a beer, Hall says he’s constantly asked if there was actual beer in the can.

“It was empty. I tell people there’s a thing called a foley editor, and they’re the ones who do that great job of adding all those sound effects, like downing a beer.”

When the Griswolds hit the road again, they’ve got Coca’s Aunt Edna and Aunt Edna’s dog Dinky in tow. Neither gets out alive.

“There’s so much of that humor that by today’s standards wouldn’t get made,” acknowledges Hall. Yet with all this sometimes tasteless and occasionally pitch-black comedy, the R-rated “Vacation” is still embraced and revered by generations of fans.

“The writing was also so on point,” says Hall. “With Harold and later with John, there was also such a joy in the process. They were great comedic writers and had great comedic minds, but they were never overly precious about their scripts or their words. … They’d let us try things.”

The Unseen Ending

The original ending of the film was a lot closer to the Hughes short story. After the Griswolds arrive at Walley World, only to learn the park is closed for repairs, Clark takes the family to Roy Walley’s house and demands Roy and his friends entertain them. When that cut was shown to test audiences who had been laughing uproariously throughout, the mood instantly died.

Ramis asked Hughes to write a new ending, John Candy was brought in to play the security guard — and the rest is comedy history.

Cut to Anthony Michael Hall (who was born Michael Anthony Hall), who notes he often sees Chase, D’Angelo and Christie Brinkley at various Comic Cons, and he remains close with his movie sister Dana Barron, who lives just five minutes away and often visits.

Just six weeks ago, Hall’s wife, Lucia Oskerova, gave birth to a son, named Michael Anthony Hall II. Is Dad looking forward to having a “Good talk, son,” as Clark did with Rusty in Arizona all those years ago?

“I’m definitely looking forward to having my ‘good talk’ moment,” he says. “And I really look forward to showing him some of these films when he gets older.” 

Copyright 2022 Chicago Sun-Times

PHOTO COURTESY IMDB

By Mary Sortino Petersen Signal Staff Writer

Two weeks ago, we stayed awake one night until after midnight. Quite a feat for me these days. We were awaiting a busload of high school students from Taiwan who had landed at LAX, and we were excited to meet the two students who would be staying with us for two weeks. Exhausted and weary from a fifteen-hour flight, they disembarked the bus that had brought them to Santa Clarita. After awkward introductions and photos, the host families brought their students home for much-needed sleep.

It’s been over twenty years since we last hosted an international student. At that time, our daughter was in high school studying French and had joined an international student exchange program. We hosted Antoine from France, and he attended high school classes with our daughter and her friends.

This time we have no children at home to help us navigate the desires and habits of seventeen-year-olds, not to mention the desires and habits of seventeen-year-olds from a different culture. We’re learning as we go.

Sometimes we sit together in self-conscious silence, both trying to be polite. They are so gracious that I fear they won’t ask for what they need. I want to engage in conversation with them, but I don’t want to be intrusive with too many bothersome questions.

The girls, Yen and Cynthia, are charming, if shy. They speak quietly. They eat delicately and slowly. They close doors gently. I realize how rapidly, sometimes erratically, I rush through my hectic day, managing rowdy, rambunctious grandsons. The

SENIOR LIVINE

girls don’t seem to mind the chaos that sometimes drives me crazy.

Little by little, I am learning about their preferences. I made bok choy and tofu, hoping to appeal to their Taiwanese palate. They liked it, but to my surprise, they also like hot dogs, bacon and French fries. I made them tea each morning with the mountain tea leaves that Cynthia brought as a gift until they told me that they like to drink coffee too. My cultural stereotypes are showing.

They had fun eating artichokes for the first time and tasting root beer (which they assumed was beer). They discovered that they love root beer floats.

We enjoy laughing about English idioms and deciphering personalized license plates. They are practicing English and I am using Google translate. (They have been studying English since kindergarten, so they’re way ahead of me in acquiring a new language.)

The girls amuse me with texted gifs and heart emojis throughout the day. For the first time this week, I heard them giggling with one another which assured me they are feeling comfortable.

After so many years of empty nest, it’s nice to have teens in the house again, if only for a few weeks. I know their parents worry about them being so far from home, but I want to reassure them that we are delighted to care for their daughters. It’s been a pleasure to open our home and share knowledge about our culture, and we have been enriched learning about theirs.

Mary Sortino Petersen is a retired COC English instructor, 30-year SCV resident and two-time breast cancer survivor. 

Santa Clarita Menu Guide

Numero Uno Pizza

Pierogi Spot

Newhall Refinery

Neighbarista

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

Egg Plantation

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

Thai Dishes (Valencia)

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

L’Italiano Restaurant

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

Everest Burgers

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

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

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

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

Fire Island Grill

Funburger

L’Italiano Restaurant

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

Jersey Mike’s

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

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.

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

Make Your Backyard Your Haven

By Jane Gates Signal Staff Writer

Living in this part of the country rewards us with a climate that makes it perfect to use the garden after dark.

Most other areas of the country have too much inclement weather or too many aggressive nighttime bugs to regularly relax outdoors after the sun goes down. And since so many of our summer days chase us indoors with excessive heat, the garden becomes even more tempting when temperatures cool at the end of the day.

So why not design your landscape to include nighttime use? After all, a garden can look amazingly magical after dark!

When planning out your garden, keep in mind all the different ways you can use it when daytime is done. Think of extending your living space outdoors for rest and relaxation, entertainment and nighttime sports. There are many ways you can turn your ordinary landscape into a special place that is quite different than the daytime garden you are used to seeing.

Relax

Add comfy chairs, a water feature to provide the calming sound of trickling water and plant night-scented plants for a bit of aroma therapy. You can make your garden into a sensory experience after dark with scented flowers. There is something truly delightful about sitting in a garden aglow with warm nighttime lighting and the fragrance of night-blooming flowers filling the air.

By planting scented flowers in your garden, you can create a romantic experience or stress-healing retreat to enjoy and share after dark. Look for white or light pastel-colored flowers to add visual contrast in the dark.

Scented flowers

Some good night-scented white flowering vines are jasmines like Trachelospermum jasminoides known as Star Jasmine (best planted with some daytime dappled shade), and the pink and white Jasminium polyanthum for full sun.

Moonflowers are another good vine for partialor full-shade garden areas. But, only use Ipomoea alba. Other other varieties can be poisonous.

For low-growing flowers, try a ground cover of white Alyssum, flowering Tobacco or the Four O’Clock Alba. The Tufted Evening Primrose and the Chocolate flower are two good choices for native, water-wise scented flowers.

Fill a larger space with the shrubby California native Mock Orange (Philadelphus lesisii) for full sun or part shade. Or, try the frost-shy Cestrum nocturnum, the Night-Blooming Jasmine, to permeate the air with a powerful perfume in a protected area.

Casa Blanca Lily or the diminutive Zephranthes drummondii (Rain Lily) are some good bulb choices. They are good to grow in mild sun or part shade, and are not fussy about soil.

There are whites and other colors of Brugmansia, Angle Trumpet (all parts toxic if eaten), Centauria and Tobacco flower that will add color to your garden during the day yet still flood your garden with a gentle nighttime perfume.

You can even design in some of these fragrant flowers near a doorway or window where the scent can filter into your home and soothe you to sleep.

Nighttime fun and comfort

Other ways to make your garden inviting at night involve building and furnishing spaces that are comfortable and practical. Design in permanent features like a cozy patio, add tables and chairs, build an outdoor fireplace or fire pit and maybe a built-in barbecue so you can celebrate the outdoors at night with friends and family.

If you like to entertain, set your backyard up so it is comfortable for evening parties in the garden. Look into some of the decorative and useful furniture being made for outdoor use.

Lighting

Add a lighted sport court, a small hiking path dotted with low voltage or solar lighting or consider a dramatically lit water feature for powerful effects in the evening hours.

Lighting is an art of its own, transforming the same location into something entirely different with light and shadow. Use it in your night garden to pick out focal points, provide safety and transform a dark

garden into a magical playground.

With outdoor LED lights embedded in flexible cords, you can even line walkways or draw outlines in your nighttime scene. There have never been so many choices in lighting effects. Most are energy efficient so they shouldn’t have much impact on your electricity bill. Choose warmer yellows or cooler whites and accent a special area with colored lights for special effects.

Think about all the ways you can make your garden work for you after the sun goes down. Nighttime gardens can be a haven for the inland landscape. Create your own magical garden. You can extend the useful part of your house and lifestyle not only into your garden, but deep into the night. 

The Impact of COVID-19 on Cardiovascular Disease

Now, more than three years from the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, the impacts can be seen more clearly.

For example, the rise in the number of cardiovascular disease deaths in 2020, the first year of the COVID-19 pandemic, represents the largest single-year increase in CVD deaths since 2015 and topped the previous high recorded in 2003, according to the latest available data from the Heart Disease and Stroke Statistics – 2023 Update from the American Heart Association.

The biggest increases in CVD-related deaths were seen among Asian, Black and Hispanic people, populations most impacted in the early days of the pandemic and brought into focus by increasing structural and societal disparities.

“We know COVID-19 took a tremendous toll and preliminary data from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) show there was a substantial increase in

the loss of lives from all causes since the start of the pandemic,” said Michelle A. Albert, M.D., M.P.H., FAHA, American Heart Association volunteer president, who is also the Walter A. Haas-Lucie Stern Endowed Chair in Cardiology, a professor of medicine

at the University of California at San Francisco (UCSF) and admissions dean for UCSF Medical School. “That this likely translated to an increase in overall cardiovascular deaths, while disheartening, is not surprising. In fact, the Association predicted this trend, which is now official.

“COVID-19 has both direct and indirect impacts on cardiovascular health. As we learned, the virus is associated with new clotting and inflammation. We also know many people who had new or existing heart disease and stroke symptoms were reluctant to seek medical care, particularly in the early days of the pandemic. This resulted in people presenting with more advanced stages of cardiovascular conditions and needing more acute or urgent treatment for what may have been manageable chronic conditions. Sadly, this ap-

pears to have cost many their lives.”

According to Albert, who also is the director of the CeNter for the StUdy of AdveRsiTy and CardiovascUlaR DiseasE (NURTURE Center) at UCSF and a leader in health equity and adversity research, the larger increases in the number of coronary heart disease deaths among Asian, Black and Hispanic adults appear to correlate with the people most often infected with COVID-19.

“People from communities of color were among those more highly impacted, especially early on, often due to a disproportionate burden of cardiovascular risk factors such as hypertension and obesity,” Albert said. “Additionally, there are socioeconomic considerations, as well as the ongoing impact of structural racism on multiple factors, including limiting the ability to access quality health care.”

To learn more about the impacts of COVID-19 on CVD, visit Heart.org/ statistics. (Family Features) 

PHOTO COURTESY OF GETTY IMAGES

HOME

Ways to Make Your Home Smell Fresh and Clean

Aclean and inviting home doesn’t just look tidy, it smells pleasantly refreshing, too. However, running a household can be a stinky business and it may take some special effort to make your living spaces feel more welcoming.

Consider these sensible ideas to improve the scents throughout your home:

Bring the Outside In

Fresh air is a terrific option for banishing bad smells. Throwing open windows creates a cross breeze that can chase stale, musty air away in a hurry. You can also improve your air quality by adding house plants, which naturally help purify the air by absorbing pollutants and exchanging carbon dioxide for oxygen. Plants like jasmine, eucalyptus and gardenias also offer their own pleasant scents.

Refresh Soft Surfaces

Textiles and other soft surfaces throughout your home easily trap odor-causing bacteria, dust and other particles that can contribute to unsavory smells. That’s why it’s a good idea to regularly give the rugs, carpet, bedding, throw pillows, curtains and other soft surfaces throughout your home a deep cleaning. If you can’t machine wash an item, use a vacuum with a hose attachment to remove as many hidden particles as possible.

Install a Heated Towel Rack

Damp spaces like bathrooms are breeding grounds for bacteria. If you notice a musty smell in the bathroom but can’t pinpoint the source, it may be your towel. That’s especially true if, like many people, you reuse

a towel several times before washing it. Hang-drying your towel may not be enough to chase away smell-inducing bacteria. However, the growth of bacteria is reduced on heat-dried towels by as much as 99%, according to a study commissioned by Amba Products. What’s more, in the study, a heat-dried towel produced a fresh smell over a seven-day period, whereas an unheated sample produced a musty odor by the fourth day.

With a variety of styles and finishes to fit almost any decor, the line of heated towel racks produces radiant heat to gently warm and dry towels. That can help eliminate moisture, resulting in less growth of mold and mildew. They also offer time, water and energy savings, plus some models come ready to use and take as little as 5 minutes to set up.

Simmer Fresh Aromas

If you need to add a pleasant scent in a hurry, such as just before hosting a special event for guests, consider simmering something that smells delicious on the stove. Simmering a blend of orange slices, cloves and cinnamon in a pot of water over low heat produces a subtle, pleasing scent that doesn’t overpower the room. Diffus-

ers, candles and room sprays can also help add appealing smells in rooms that may need some extra attention.

Clean Common Culprits

Every household has some common culprits and, if you’re noticing smells, you may need to step up your game to keep these areas clean. Trash cans, litter boxes and pet beds all need regular attention that goes beyond the basics. Make a point of not only emptying the trash but also cleaning the trash can itself. Don’t

just scoop the litter box. Replace the entire pan at least weekly. Strip and wash the exterior covering of pet beds and air out the cushion.

Keeping your home clean and smelling great does not have to be complicated. Maintaining a regular cleaning schedule and incorporating ways to purify and enhance the air can make the space more enjoyable. To get your home refresh started, visit ambaproducts.com. (Family Features)

JOBS

rock or stone from underground mines, and load this onto conveyors and shuttles.

The most common cause of death in this occupation is through contact with objects or equipment, which accounted for seven fatal injuries throughout 2022.

9. Helpers, Construction Trades

22.9 deaths per 100,000 workers

Median salary — $37,357

Construction trade helpers ranked as the ninth most dangerous job, with 22.9 deaths per 100,000 workers. This occupation involves assisting brickmasons, carpenters, electricians and other construction-based roles with their duties. Construction trade helpers are expected to hold materials or tools, and clean work areas and equipment.

Fifteen workers in this occupation

are reported to have suffered a fatal injury in 2022, with transportation incidents being the leading cause of death.

10. Electrical Power-Line Installers And Repairers

22 deaths per 100,000 workers

Median salary — $78,310

Electrical power-line installers and repairers rank tenth, with 22 deaths per 100,000 workers. These workers are required to install, maintain and repair the power grid, which transfers

electricity from generating plants to customers’ homes and businesses.

Line installers and repairers are often required to climb poles or towers and regularly work with high-voltage transformers, which puts them at increased risk of death from falls and electrocution. In fact, exposure to harmful substances or environments was the biggest recorded hazard for this occupation, accounting for 17 of the 30 recorded deaths in 2022.

Michael Agruss, Managing Partner at Agruss Law Firm commented on

the findings:

“When looking at the potential risk posed by any given occupation, it often isn’t enough to just look at the total number of fatalities, as this is likely to be overrepresented in jobs that have a large population of workers to begin with.

“By looking at rates of fatal injuries, we were able to obtain a clearer understanding of which jobs pose the greatest risk, as a proportion of the number of workers and hours worked for each occupation.” 

To i v e i n B a r b i e L a n d i s t o b e a p e r f e c t b e i n g i n a p e r f e c t p l a c e U n l e s s y o u h a v e a f u l l - o n e x i s t e n t i a l c r i s i s O r y o u ’r e a

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a n d t h e c h o i c e s t h a t m a k e a l i f e

SOLUTIONS

READER LETTERS

Parades Are for Memories

Raising children is not easy. We try to provide life experiences they will preserve as memories for decades. One such experience was decorating Rose Parade floats for nine years. Not only is the parade recognized internationally, but also for our children to see their work in person or on TV brings an overwhelming sense of accomplishment. In our final year volunteering, we with several of their girlfriends were a seasoned team of decorators. The float we were assigned to had many workers, so we were sent to one just trying to get off the ground. Initially, the forewoman was skeptical because our teen girls seemed young. By the end of our shift, though, half the “TV side” of the float was completed! Two days later on the news, we saw our float won the award for the first to be completely decorated, much from our efforts! As was our tradition, we would attend the parade to see not only our float, but also many others on the streets of Pasadena.

There were many around us wearing cardinal and white as the Wisconsin Badgers were playing in the Rose Bowl later in the day. The parade started, and the girls anxiously watched for their float to turn onto Colorado Boulevard. The Badger fan next to me asked, “Why do the girls keep calling it their float?” I explained they had decorated the TV side of the float. Finally, the float turned the corner and stopped in front of us. The girls leaned forward silently. They felt the pride of their hard work. As the float regained its momentum down Colorado for its trek, the nearby crowd dressed in cardinal and white rose up and applauded our girls, recognizing their accomplishment. I love the people of Wisconsin!

So why doesn’t the city of Santa Clarita have a float in the Rose Parade? South Pasadena, Sierra Madre, Burbank, Glendale, Downey and Torrance participate. Why not us? Indeed, this possibility was brought up about 20 years ago to the City Council without success. Was it money or time? For this 37-year resident, it has always been difficult to describe to friends where Santa Clarita is, until one mentions Magic Mountain. Now, though, our valley is the “Hollywood of the North,” producer of Olympic medal-winning athletes, with safe communities, great schools and colleges, and we even had a TV series named after us: “Santa Clarita Diet”!

Decorating a Rose Parade float is a life experience. It would be even more special if it was for our home town. I ask the City Council to develop a feasibility committee to determine the timetable and cost. This would not only provide a life experience for children, but also an event where we all can work as a team to create a piece of art for the world to admire. Businesses can get on board sponsoring volunteers, and of course, we can have a contest for float design with the winner riding on the float New Year’s Day. Let your voices be heard. Santa Clarita is not just Magic Mountain anymore.

Dr. Gene Dorio Saugus

ETHICALLY SPEAKING

Toward Ethical Arguments

By David Hegg

It is increasingly the case that our society has become a debate club. Every news cycle seems to provide fodder for intramural arguments between those holding opposing views. And what now seems to be the common outcome is the division that has come to define our country. And we even debate just how divided we are!

Much of our rancorous arguing stems from a redefining of the end goal of a point-counterpoint engagement. The most helpful posture is when we argue to persuade, and in the persuading remain open to the possibility of hearing counter-arguments that are sound and deserve consideration. But today, most exchanges are not out to persuade but to pulverize. There is not a hint of honor for those who oppose, and not only is this an improper form of debate but also it rules out the possibility of gaining new insights into the issue. Given that we’ve become addicted to arguing as a means of establishing how everyone should think and live, let me suggest a few principles for ethical arguing.

Evidence: I am amazed at what passes for evidence today. By evidence I mean that which can be verified. If I assert something there should be solid, verifiable data to back it up. For example, if I believe some conspiracy theory, there needs to be reliable proof and not just adamant assertions based on articles in checkstand magazines. Today, too many arguments lack foundation or verifiable basis. Unproven assertions remain unproven no matter how adamantly and loudly they are bandied about. Citing Instagram or Wikipedia really doesn’t count.

Vocabulary: It is best to use concrete, rational, logical terms rather than emotionally charged words that cause the discussion to get off track. Every debater knows, if your arguments are not strong, you can shift the focus of the dialogue by raising the level of contempt for your opponent’s arguments. You’ll notice this happens often in the national political back-and-forth to which we are being treated these days. If you can’t logically rebut your opponent’s assertions, start calling them names and dishing out platefuls of demeaning comments about them.

Relationship: Ethical argument first demands you consider your opponent to be a fellow human made, in my view, in the image of God. And even if you do not subscribe to this view of

humanity, ethically sound human relationships in America stand on the principle that “all are created equal and endowed ... with certain unalienable rights.” Sadly, over the past couple decades we have seen how abandoning appreciation for our fellow man and woman has eroded civility in our society to an unacceptable, dangerous level. Spoiler alert: If your give-and-take with friends or others has you demeaning them as people or their arguments as “idiotic, absurd and unworthy of response,” you’ve lost every opportunity to persuade those who differ. And, on a personal note, you’ve become no fun at all and you’re embarrassing your friends.

Honor: We must return to the days when dialogue over issues having opposing views was for the purpose of discovery as much as discourse. To argue ethically is to appreciate the opportunity to learn from those who oppose. When you throw out your opinions, your beliefs, and they are assessed by those who differ, it will often uncover weak areas or even errors you can then reevaluate. The bottom line: There is no honor in continuing to stand on arguments and evidence you now know have gaping holes. Believing you have “won” a debate with arguments that are arbitrary, full of holes and unsubstantiated doesn’t make you right. Rather, it paints you as an arrogant fool.

In my field of Christian theology, I have often had to rethink my understanding of some biblical texts based on findings by biblical scholars. I have even learned important things from those with whom I don’t fully agree. As well, I have engaged in dialogue with Christians and non-Christians concerning biblical, theological and ethical issues and have come away better for the experience. I have found that listening to someone who, at least, shares my interests is profitable even if we walk away in disagreement. And, to the extent that there has been a respectful, honorable exchange of ideas, the probability exists of more dialogue in the future.

Years ago, one of my professors observed: “Iron sharpens iron but only if it comes at the right angle.” It is only as we seek to improve ourselves and others that our arguments can unify rather than divide. And I’m all for that.

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