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Looking For Haunted Locations? Try These.
By Michele E. Buttelman Signal Staff Writer
Tis the season to explore the spooky, the scary and the extraordinary in creepy California. It’s fun to become a paranormal investigator in Southern California where numerous reportedly haunted locations beckon the brave, and the curious.
Here are a few road trips that will take you a few of the many haunted places in southern California.
Old Town Temecula
Two-and-a-half hours from the Santa Clarita Valley lies Temecula, famed for its vineyards and spas, but it is also known for its rich history. Temecula was established in 1859 and its history includes a violent massacre of as many as 100 Luiseño Indians who were ambushed and slaughtered in January 1874. The site, watched over by the Pechanga Band of Indians.
One of the first hotels in Temecula, the Palomar Inn Hotel (28522 Old Town Front St. 92590) is known for many accounts of a man watching the housekeepers clean, then seconds later he disappears. Guests of the hotel say they hear voices when walking in the hotel’s halls. This hotel, on The National Register of Historic Places, has amassed many spooky stories over the years. In addition to the mysterious sounds, guests have felt cold spots in the hotel during their stays.
Temecula is so haunted that several ghost tours are available of the Old Town area:
Haunted Cable Car Tour Climb aboard an openair cable car for a trip to Old Town Temecula. Along the way, your guide will share the spooky beginnings of this once Wild West Town. Enjoy photo opportunities in front of some of the most haunted locations in Temecula and walk the footsteps of the early settlers and pioneers. For more information, visit bit.ly/4hkZCb9.
The KEA Grain Mill
Just outside of Temecula, in the neighboring
city of Murietta, sits the KEA Grain Mill in historic downtown Murietta. The towering structure is home to creepy sightings and mysterious happenings. Built in 1918, it has accumulated its fair share of ghost sightings since being boarded up in 1991.
The most famous of these is a little girl dressed in blue. She’s been spotted numerous times wandering the grounds around the mill and in the window at the top of the mill.
Haunted Bakersfield
Just over the Grapevine, 84 miles north of the SCV is the Padre Hotel (1702 18th St., Bakersfield 93301). It’s considered to be a beautiful landmark with a haunted past. This luxury Western-themed hotel started off as a hub for nightlife the 1920s. Its grand opening was held on April 12, 1928.
A fire on the seventh floor in the 1950s claimed the lives of a family with children, and in 1952 a devastating earthquake killed several people trapped in the hotel basement.
In the decades since, people have heard the giggles of children and have even encountered the ghostly children of The Padre Hotel. In particular, the ghost of a little girl from the 1920s is particularly active.
She reportedly likes to tug on shirts and aprons and has also apparently left a child-sized handprint on a column in the hotel’s Farmacy Café, which seems to come back no matter how many times employees clean it off.
Also spotted has been a tall man in a white coat walking down the hallways. Housekeeping staff report they often feel they are being watched. When they turn to look, they catch a quick glimpse of a tall man in a long coat who quickly vanishes.
Central Park (500 19th St., Bakersfield 93301) is said to be home to a woman in white. The majority of reports from those who have seen her suggest that she is most likely to appear in the early hours of the morning, just before daybreak. She is usually seen walking along the canal.
Bakersfield High School (1241 G St., Bakersfield,
93304) has three areas of paranormal activity.
The first area is the Quad, which, according to school legend, sits on top of what was once an unofficial graveyard used by a nearby hospital.
Another hot spot is the Harvey Auditorium, which is haunted by a construction worker who was accidentally killed while the property was being built. He apparently fell from the rafters and ended up crashing through several floors. His apparition is now seen around the spot where he died.
The third spooky sighting is of ghosts of two former students of the school. The young couple includes a boy wearing his letterman jacket while the girl is dressed in an old-fashioned formal gown. They are often seen standing on the bleachers, and students have also reported strange cold spots around the school.
Closer to Home
Los Angeles has many famous haunted locations, including the Queen Mary and the Roosevelt Hotel in Hollywood. If you are looking for specters closer to home, yet off-the-beaten path, take a drive to the intersection of Laurel Canyon and Lookout Mountain, where drivers have reported seeing a “ghost carriage” pulled by two ghostly white horses crossing their paths around the stroke of midnight.
The Cecil Hotel (640 Main St., Los Angeles 90014), which recently closed, has had a reputation for tragedy. Multiple violent deaths and suicides took place on the premises after the hotel opened its doors in 1924, and at least two known serial killers were documented in the room logs. The Cecil was considered one of L.A.’s most haunted hotels even before the death of a young women in 2013 in one of the hotel’s rooftop water tanks.
PHOTO CREDITS: Hotel Cecil and The Padre Hotel
HALLOWEEN HORROR CLASSICS
By Michele B. Buttelman Signal Staff Writer
It’s spooky season and the best time to turn off the lights, grab a bowl of caramel popcorn, a cozy blanket and binge watch a Halloween movie marathon.
The Classics
Nosferatu (1922)
Can a German horror movie from 1922 (released in the United States in 1929) still hold up more than 100 years later? Directed by F. W. Murnau, and taken from the 1897 novel “Dracula” by Bram Stoker, this silent film is credited with creating the template for all horror movies that followed. Amazon Prime Video
Dracula (1931)
For horror film lovers there is nothing more classic than Bela Lugosi as Dracula. If you’re looking for the iconic Universal monsters, here’s the place to start. Amazon Prime Video
Frankenstein (1931)
Directed by James Whale, produced by Carl Laemmle Jr., based on Mary Shelley’s 1818 novel “Frankenstein; or, The Modern Prometheus.” A classic Universal monster movie. Peacock
The Bride of Frankenstein (1935)
A “Frankenstein” sequel, also directed by James Whale. Peacock
“House on Haunted Hill” (1959)
This is one of my all-time favorites. A wealthy eccentric, played with gusto by Vincent Price, offers five guests a big cash prize if they can survive the night in a haunted house. Avoid the terrible remake made in 1999. YouTube
Psycho (1960)
Produced and directed by Alfred Hitchcock. Based on the 1959 novel by Robert Bloch. The film stars Anthony Perkins, Janet Leigh, Vera Miles, John Gavin and Martin Balsam. It’s easy to see why so many people are uncomfortable in the shower after watching this classic. Netflix
The Texas Chain Saw Massacre (1974)
Leatherface is among the greats of horror-movie franchise icons. Amazon Prime
Halloween (1978)
Directed by John Carpenter, who co-wrote it with Debra Hill. Stars Donald Pleasence and Jamie Lee Curtis (in her film debut). The film follows mental patient Michael Myers,
who was committed to a sanitarium for murdering his teenage sister one Halloween night. Peacock
A Nightmare on Elm Street (1984)
Directed by Wes Craven, it is the first installment in the A Nightmare on Elm Street franchise and stars Robert Englund as Freddy Krueger and Johnny Depp in his film debut. MAX.
Night of the Living Dead (1968)
George A. Romero has made his career directing the best zombie movies. This film is credited with popularizing the modern portrayal of zombies. Peacock
It (2017)
Pennywise the Clown remains one of the most popular Halloween costumes. It is the first of a two-part adaptation of the 1986 novel by Stephen King. Follow it up with 2019’s It: Chapter 2. Hulu Favorites
The Exorcist (1973)
Based loosely around actual events. Directed by William Friedkin. The film stars Ellen Burstyn, Max von Sydow, Jason Miller, and Linda Blair. MAX, Hulu or Amazon Prime Video
The Rocky Horror Picture Show (1975)
The cult-classic musical is the perfect film for Halloween binging. Join engaged couple Brad and Janet as they get stranded at Dr. Frank-N-Furter’s mansion, where they do the Time Warp. Sing along. Hulu
The Amityville Horror (1979)
Stars James Brolin, Margot Kidder and Rod Steiger. Based on Jay Anson’s 1977 book, which documented the alleged paranormal experiences of the Lutz family who resided in the home where Ronald DeFeo Jr. committed the mass murder of his family. Amazon Prime Video
The Shining (1980)
Produced and directed by Stanley Kubrick and based on Stephen King’s 1977 novel. Stars Jack Nicholson, Danny Lloyd, Shelley Duvall and Scatman Crothers. MAX or Amazon Prime Video
Beetlejuice (1988)
Directed by Tim Burton, the film stars Alec Baldwin, Geena Davis, Jeffrey Jones, Catherine O’Hara, Winona Ryder and Michael Keaton. The sequel was just released last month. MAX or Hulu
Spooky Fun
Hocus Pocus (1993)
This campy Disney Halloween classic makes chatty black cats and goofy witches the epitome of Halloween fun. Disney+
The Addams Family (1991)
For nostalgia lovers of the original Addams Family TV show, this is a fun Halloween watch. Stars Raul Julia and Anjelica Houston. Paramount+
Get Out (2017)
Written, co-produce and directed by Jordan Peele in his directorial debut. A psychological tthriller. Peacock or Netflix
Goosebumps (2015)
Based on the work of R.L. Stine, Goosebumps follows a group of teenagers fighting some of the horror author’s most iconic monsters. Amazon Prime Video
Practical Magic (1998)
Stars Sandra Bullock and Nicole Kidman as sisters who turn to witchcraft in an attempt to bring a dead boyfriend back to life. MAX or Amazon Prime Video
Just for Laughs
Young Frankenstein (1974)
Directed by Mel Brooks. The screenplay was co-written by Brooks and Gene Wilder. Wilder also stars as the descendant of the infamous Dr. Victor Frankenstein. Peter Boyle portrays the monster. Amazon Prime Video
Ghostbusters (1984)
Directed by Ivan Reitman and written by Dan Aykroyd and Harold Ramis. The movie stars Bill Murray, Aykroyd and Ramis. The trio start a ghost-catching business in New York City. It also stars Sigourney Weaver, Rick Moranis, Annie Potts, Ernie Hudson and William Atherton. Forget the sequels and remakes. Hulu or Amazon Prime Video
Little Shop of Horrors (1986)
This big-screen adaptation of the off-Broadway musical features catchy songs, a man-eating plant and stars Rick Moranis and Ellen Greene. Amazon Prime Video
Death Becomes Her (1992)
Goldie Hawn and Meryl Streep discover the secret of eternal youth, but at a price. This Robert Zemeckis classic is a fun ride. Peacock
Scary Movie (2000)
Scary Movie is the ultimate horror-film parody. Amazon Prime Video or Paramount+
NEWS FEATURE
Adopting A Pet? Here’s How to Make a Perfect Match
Bringing a pet into your home is one of the best decisions you can make to enrich your life, with three quarters of pet parents reporting mental health improvements from pet ownership. With more than six million animals currently in rescue agencies or shelters in the U.S., adopting a pet will open your home to an animal in need and bring you untold amounts of joy and well-being. It’s easy to fall in love with an adorable dog or cat. But as tempting as it is to take home the first sweet face you see, it’s not a decision to make lightly.
According to a study by the National Institutes of Health, 40% of adopted pets are returned to shelters within the first year. That’s why some careful forethought can help your home be a permanent one for your new best friend. Here are five things to consider to help you find a companion that is the perfect match:
Compatibility withYour Lifestyle
Before you choose a pet, think about your lifestyle and choose a pet with a temperament and personality that fits. Are you looking for a cuddle buddy for movie nights or a running partner? Do you work from home or are you in the office five days a week? Do you have young children or teenagers?
A young, active husky might not be the best choice for someone who is away most of the day, while an older cat might enjoy quiet and solitude. A rambunctious dog might be too much for young kids, while teens might love to play with them in the backyard.
Preparing for Expenses
Budgeting for pet care is the best way to make sure you’re not surprised by the expenses necessary to keep your new family member healthy and happy. Think about vet visits, yearly vaccinations, food, day care, dental cleanings, grooming and more. There’s also a chance pet parents could face surprise costs like treatment for an injury or surgery.
These costs can add up over time, Synchrony’s Pet Lifetime of Care Study shows it can be as much as $55,000 during a pet’s lifetime. But there are ways to be ready for these costs.
Many pet parents have a credit card specifically for pet expenses, such as Synchrony’s CareCredit. CareCredit is a health and wellness credit card that empowers families to pay over time for pet care with flexible, budget-friendly financing options. CareCredit can be for all types of veterinary and pet care from routine exams and vaccinations to illness and injuries, nutrition and prescriptions and even microchipping, boarding, training and other expenses. Having a solution to manage costs can give your financial peace of mind through every stage of your pet’s life.
Puppy or Kitten vs. Adult Pet
If you work outside of the home most of the time, a puppy or kitten can be challenging but not
impossible. Young animals need a lot of supervision, training and attention as they discover the world - and get to know you and your household. It takes time and attention to help them grow into well-mannered adults. If you don’t have those, consider adopting an adult pet that’s already house trained, crate trained, leash ready or can manage being alone. Be sure to ask these types of questions when you are at your chosen place of adoption.
Allergies in Your Household
If someone in your home is allergic to dogs or cats, careful consideration should be made. The last thing you want is to fall in love with a furry friend only to discover you or a child is constantly sneezing. However, there are certain breeds that are hypoallergenic that might be the ideal fit.
Living Situation
Do you live in an apartment? What floor is it on? Is there easy access to outdoor spaces or a dog park? Does your home have a fenced-in yard to keep them safe? What are the rules for pets if you’re renting? It’s important to keep all of these things in consideration when adding a pet to your life and living space. It’s not always the size of the pet that matters most, it’s the size of your commitment to making to work for you and the animals. Considering all the elements of pet ownership before you bring your furry friend home will help ensure it’s a perfect match from the start - and for a lifetime.
To learn more about how CareCredit can help you be financially prepared to care for your new family member, and to find a vet near you that accepts CareCredit, visit their website www.carecredit.com. (BPT)
Avoid These Common Obstacles to Good Nutrition
Proper nutrition is critical to older adults’ overall vitality, providing energy, helping to control weight, and even preventing and managing some diseases.
Unfortunately, 10% of older people don’t eat enough, while one-third eat too much, according to Healthin Aging.org, which is the Health in Aging Foundation’s online public education resource. Such nutritional imbalances may be due to the range of common obstacles some people face as they age, including changing tastes, dental problems and difficulty accessing healthy foods.
“Charles,” a Cigna Healthcare Medicare Advantage (MA) customer, had several health issues when he was introduced to a nutrition program available through his MA plan.
Through the program, he worked with a registered dietitian, started working out, and lost nearly 50 pounds. These changes fueled him to tackle additional health goals, including getting mental health support and assistance improving his sleep.
MA plans, like those offered by Cigna Healthcare, include “extra benefits” not available through Original Medicare. The Cigna Healthcare MA nutrition program is one of those extras, and it primarily supports older adults with a body mass index below 22 or above 40, those with chronic diseases like diabetes and kidney disease, and those with low fruit and vegetable intake. Through the pro-
gram, registered dietitians provide customers with dietary advice that can help them improve their health.
“We offer information, education and resources that are different for everybody and not restrictive,” explained Robin Neal, one of the program’s dietitians. “The goal is to provide skills and tools so individuals can self-manage their diet after the program ends.”
Neal said results often include weight loss and improved blood sugar readings, such as those Charles experienced.
Of course, program advice varies by individual and their unique nutrition-
al needs, but some tips everyone can benefit from include the following: Get your nutrients According to the National Council on Aging, older adults should eat a variety of foods to get all the nutrients they need, including lean protein for muscle mass, as well as fruits and vegetables, whole grains and low-fat dairy. Choose foods with little to no added sugar, saturated fats and sodium. For an example of what a healthy plate looks like, visit myplate.gov.
Stay hydrated Drink water often to aid digestion. Limit beverages with lots of added sugars or salt. Visit the dentist If you’re having trouble chewing, visit your dentist. They may be able to help. For instance, if you have ill-fitting dentures, chewing can be improved and more comfortable with a better fit. Additionally, choosing softer foods, such as canned fruit, soups or tuna, may help. Dental visits are a covered benefit in many Medicare Advantage plans.
Follow food safety guidelines Food not prepared properly can make you sick. Because those with weakened immune systems are vulnerable to foodborne illnesses, it’s especially important for older adults to follow food safety guidelines. If you have any doubt about a food’s safety, throw it out.
Limit salt Too much sodium can in-
crease the risk of high blood pressure, heart attack and stroke. To stay heart healthy, ask your doctor for guidance on recommended daily sodium limits based on your health status and check food labels for sodium content. Cook more meals at home using lower sodium ingredients and avoid processed foods. Flavor dishes with herbs and spices.
Seek assistance if needed Take advantage of MA plan benefits that can help you secure healthy foods, like transportation or grocery cards. Additionally, there are local and national programs to help those on limited incomes with nutritious food costs, including the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). To learn about assistance available in your area, visit cignacommunity.findhelp. com.
To find MA plans offered in your area, visit Medicare.gov. For information on Cigna Healthcare plans, visit CignaMedicareInformation.com.
“By devoting your time and attention to eating well, you’ll not only be able to maintain a healthy body weight, but you can also reduce your risk of chronic disease and maintain your overall vitality as you age,” said Neal. “And, of course, if you have any questions about your health, you should always talk to your doctor. (SPT)
PHOTOS ©ADOBE STOCK
HEADS UP! HEADS UP!
FROM THE CITY MANAGER
By Ken Striplin
Clarita City Manager
With the holidays just a few weeks away, my favorite time of year is officially upon us! Whether its spending time with family and friends, flipping the switch for our annual Light Up Main Street event in Old Town Newhall or enjoying the cooler weather — there’s so much community fun to be had this season, including a new, unique holiday experience. For the first time, the City of Santa Clarita will be partnering with Metrolink to host the Metrolink Holiday Train Express at our very own Vista Canyon Multi-Modal Center in Canyon Country.
Step into a world of holiday cheer as we take a ride on the Antelope Valley Line. Get ready for an immersive experience, from engine to caboose. On Sunday, December 15, residents can choose to board the train in the morning or early afternoon for a holiday ride. Our partnership with Metrolink not only shows our commitment to using other modes of transportation here in Santa Clarita, but also provides participants a fun way to ride the train while enjoying the views and spending time with friends and family.
Be sure to arrive up to one hour before your train departs and write a letter to Santa, enjoy a variety of holiday themed arts and crafts, play games, grab something from the food trucks or sip on some hot chocolate. Once it’s time to board, that is when
the true holiday magic begins. As you find your seat on the train, be ready to meet Mr. and Mrs. Claus, take pictures with beloved story characters or meet our very own Sammy Clarita as he is dressed up for holiday fun. The train ride lasts around 90 minutes, as you look through the frosted windows as you make your way to the Lancaster Metrolink Station before heading back to the Santa Clarita station. While on-board, listen and singa-long to our merry carolers as they pass through the different train cars singing your favorite holiday tunes. Once you arrive back to the Vista Canyon Multi-Modal Center, riders are encouraged to stay on the train and ride down to Old Town Newhall. Every person who purchases a Metrolink Holiday Express Train ticket will automatically be given free ridership for the entire day! That means riders can stay on the platform after the Holiday Express and can take the 20-minute ride to Old Town Newhall for even more holiday fun. During the month of December, the entire downtown area is decorated with holiday lights, making it a great spot to walk along Main Street to shop at our local boutiques or try one of the many restaurants that line the street.
If you are interested in catching the Metrolink Holiday Train Express, tickets are $25 and go on sale on Monday, November 4. You can also visit MetrolinkTrains.com/Schedules/ Holiday-Express-Train/ to learn more about the event and purchase your tickets.
Ken Striplin is Santa Clarita’s City Manager and can be reached at kstriplin@santaclarita.gov.
Santa
Boost social, emotional and physical health with egg-inspired recipes
Dine together, shine together. Weekly sit-down meals with family can reduce stress, boost self-esteem and make everyone feel more connected — all while sharing delicious, healthy and easy-to-prepare food.
Give your family the opportunity to refuel and reconnect each week with recipes that bring everyone together. Whether it’s 10 people or two, research shows that those who enjoy frequent meals with others, particularly parents with their children, have better social and emotional well-being, according to the American Heart Association.
These egg-inspired recipes and more are part of the American Heart Association’s Together Tuesdays and Healthy for Good Eat Smart initiative, nationally supported by Eggland’s Best. Both initiatives stress the importance of gathering at least once a week around the table with family or friends to satisfy cravings for connection, a delicious meal and overall healthy living.
In addition to the social and emotional benefits of dining together, shared family meals can help promote healthier choices at the table.
Eggs, for example, can be included as part of a heart-healthy diet that emphasizes vegetables, fruits, nuts and seeds, whole grains, lean protein and fish, according to the American Heart Association. Remember not to isolate just one food – it’s not only about the egg, but also about what’s eaten alongside it. For example, eating eggs alongside foods high in saturated fat – like bacon – is different than eggs eaten with steamed veggies, whole grains or a side of fruit.
For more heart-healthy recipe ideas and conver-
sation starters to make Together Tuesdays a tradition in your household, visit heart.org/together.
Poached Eggs with Pesto Bulgur
Servings 4
2/3 cup uncooked instant or fine-grain bulgur
1 1/3 cups, plus 2 tablespoons, fat-free, low-sodium vegetable broth, divided
1 cup tightly packed fresh basil
2 tablespoons chopped walnuts, dry roasted
1 small garlic clove, minced
1/8 teaspoon salt
1 dash cayenne
1/2 cup finely chopped yellow or red bell pepper
1/4 cup thinly sliced green onions
4 cups water
1 tablespoon white vinegar
4 large eggs
1 medium lemon, cut into 4 wedges
In medium saucepan, prepare bulgur according to package directions, omitting salt and substituting 1 1/3 cups broth for water. Fluff with fork.
In food processor or blender, process basil, walnuts, garlic, salt, cayenne and remaining broth until smooth. Stir basil mixture, bell pepper and green onions into bulgur.
In large skillet, bring water and vinegar to boil over high heat. Reduce heat and simmer. Break one egg into cup then carefully slip egg into simmering water. Repeat with remaining eggs, placing in water so they don’t touch. Simmer 3-5 minutes, or
until whites are completely set and yolks are beginning to set but aren’t hard. Using slotted spoon, drain eggs well and place on bulgur mixture. Serve with lemon wedges.
Note White vinegar helps firm egg whites quickly, preventing them from spreading too much.
Southwestern Quinoa and Egg Breakfast Bowls
Servings 4
1/4 cup uncooked quinoa, rinsed and drained
2 medium tomatoes (about 2 cups), chopped 1 cup no-salt-added frozen corn, thawed
1/2 medium avocado, pitted and diced
1/4 cup chopped green onions
1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional) nonstick cooking spray
4 large eggs
1/8 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon pepper red hot pepper sauce, to taste (optional)
Cook quinoa according to package directions. Remove from heat.
Spoon quinoa into four bowls. Top each with even amounts of tomatoes, corn, avocado, green onions and cilantro, if desired.
Lightly spray large skillet with nonstick cooking spray and set over medium-high heat. Crack eggs into skillet. Sprinkle with salt and pepper. Cook, uncovered, 3-4 minutes, or until egg whites are set but yolks are still runny. Using spatula, carefully transfer one egg, sunny side up, into each bowl. Sprinkle with hot sauce, to taste, if desired. (Family Features)
Southwestern Quinoa and Egg Breakfast Bowls
Poached Eggs with Pesto Bulgur
ENTERTAINMENT
Intriguing, Beautifully Acted But In the End Falls Short
By Richard Roeper Signal Contributing Writer
‘
Conclave’
1/2 (out of four)
Focus Features presents a film directed by Edward Berger and written by Peter Straughan, based on the book by Robert Harris. In theaters.
Just in time for the stretch run of the presidential election campaign comes the intriguing and beautifully acted but overwrought and pulpy Vatican mystery drama “Conclave,” which draws a myriad of parallels between the skullduggery of American politics and the Machiavellian strategies employed by various schemers and anglers during the selection of a new pope.
This is a prestige project through and through, with striking visual images provided by director Edward
Berger (“All Quiet on the Western Front”), and brilliant work by an all-star cast, but the twists and turns play out like a lesser-grade “Knives Out” movie mashed up with a middling episode of a network
are forced nto a devastating dec s on s m i l e 2 E Sun to Wed: 1:00 4:00 7:00; Thu: 1:00 4:00 About to embark on a new wor d tour, g obal pop sensation Skye R ley beg ns exper enc ng ncreasingly terr fying and inexpl cable events
P i e c e by P i e c e B 4:30 PM
Told through the lens of LEGO an mation, turn up the vo ume on your maginat on and witness the evolution of one of music ’s most innovative minds
s At u r DAy n i G h t E 7:20 PM
At 11 30pm on Oc tober 11, 1975 a feroc ous troupe of young comedians and writers changed television and culture forever
t h e A P P r e n t i c e E Sun: 10:00 1:00; Mon to Thu: 1:00 PM
Eager to make h s name as a hungr y scion of a wea thy fami y n 1970s New York a young Dona d Trump comes under the spel of attorney Roy Cohn
W e l i v e i n t i m e E Sun: 1:10 4:10 7:10; Mon: 1:10 4:10; Tue: 1:10 4:10 7:10; Wed: 1:10 4:10; Thu: 1:10 4:10 7:10
Almut and Tobias are brought together n a surpr se encounter that changes their l ves
lo o K bAc K Sun: 10:10 AM
Popular, outgoing Fuj no s celebrated by her c assmates for her funny com cs in the c ass newspaper
t h e W i l D ro b ot B Sun: 10:20 1:30 4:20 7:30; Mon to Thu: 1:30 4:20 7:30
A robot s shipwrecked on an un nhabited island and must learn to adapt to the harsh surroundings
t h e s u b s tA n c e E Sun: 10:10 AM
Have you ever dreamt of a better version of yourse f? You Only better in ever y way You’ve got to tr y th s new produc t It changed my ife
t i m b u r to n’s t h e n i G h tm A r e b e F o r e c h r i s tm A s B Mon: 7:00 PM
Jack Skell ngton, ruler of Ha loweentown happens upon Chr stmastown, and decides to change Christmas into another Hal oween
crime show, with an enormous and preachy reveal at the end that feels arbitrary, exploitative and unearned.
I’m reminded of the classic scene from “Seinfeld” where Jerry visits a Catholic priest to voice his concerns that a dentist has converted to Judaism “purely for the jokes.” When the priest says, “And this offends you as a Jewish person?” Jerry replies, “No, it offends me as a comedian!”
As a Catholic, I’m not offended by the depiction of a steady parade of egregious sins committed by a number of the so-called holy men in “Conclave”; after all, we know far too well about the horrific, real-life scandals perpetuated by priests and covered up by the hierarchy of the Church. I’m more troubled as a critic, as a viewer, who is asked to buy into an overstuffed plot that keeps peppering us with major and melodramatic plot swings.
With Peter Straughan (who did such an impressive job adapting John le Carre’s “Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy” in 2011) writing the screenplay based on the 2016 novel of the same name by Robert Harris, “Conclave” begins with Ralph Fiennes’ Cardinal Thomas Lawrence arriving at the Vatican just after the pope has passed away peacefully in his sleep. The level-headed and exemplary Cardinal Lawrence is tasked with overseeing the selection of a new pope, with the College of Cardinals gathering inside the Domus Sanctae Marthae, where the doors will remain locked until a two-thirds majority is reached and the next pontiff has been elected.
A number of contenders are introduced. Cardinal Tremblay (John Lithgow) is a moderate who was close to the late pope and is a consummate politician and a seemingly safe choice, but the apparent front-runner is Cardinal Bellini (Stanley Tucci), a liberal who wants the papacy to embrace a more modern approach to issues of sexuality, divorce, women’s rights and contraception. Also in the running are Cardinal Adeyemi (Lucian Msamati), a popular and forceful personality from Nigeria who could become
the first Black pope, and the Italian Cardinal Tedesco (Sergio Castellitto), who has a larger-than-life personality and is a hardline conservative who wants to hit the reset button on more than a half-century of progress.
Further complicating the proceedings: the surprise arrival of one Cardinal Benitez (Carlos Diehz), a dashing and mysterious figure whose very existence was kept secret because he was stationed in Kabul after stints in the Congo and Baghdad. (He’s like the Indiana Jones of cardinals.) There’s also looming unrest and the threat of terrorism just outside the Vatican. Oh, and the great Isabella Rossellini, channeling the spirit of her mother Ingrid Bergman in “The Bells of St. Mary’s,” is Sister Agnes, who has a showcase moment when she calls out the bickering and petty cardinals. The nuns will be silent and unseen no longer!
As the cardinals cast vote after vote in the Sistine Chapel (exquisitely re-created in a set built at Rome’s historic Cinecitta Studios), we learn of one illicit scandal after another, involving everything from financial malfeasance to the reveal of a decades-ago illicit affair to the discovery of secret writings to ... well, even more outrageous developments.
The dialogue in “Conclave” often crackles with passion and precision, with these outstanding actors rattling the rafters with theatrical speeches. Despite the limitations of the locale, director Berger and cinematographer Stephane Fontaine deliver some stunning visuals, e.g., a parade of cardinals marching like soldiers, their white umbrellas shielding them from the rain and the outside world. Fiennes bears the heaviest burden of the cast, and he comes through with one of the best performances of his career.
There is much to admire about “Conclave,” but in the end, all of its lofty aspirations come tumbling down due to that poorly constructed Jenga tower of a plot.
Copyright 2024 Chicago Sun-Times
PHOTO COURTESY IMDB
Why You Should Not Brush Off the Dentist
When scheduling annual physicals, screenings, vaccinations and other preventive care, don’t forget about another critical part of overall health that gets neglected all too often: dental care.
A recent study from the National Library of Medicine revealed that nearly half of American adults postponed their scheduled dental visits during the pandemic. Even prior to the public health emergency, at least one-third of U.S. adults didn’t see their dentist annually.
“Now is a great time to schedule an appointment with your dentist,” says Dr. Cary Sun, Cigna Healthcare chief dental officer.
Health Implications
“Brushing off dental care can have serious implications for your health and wellness. Even forgoing recommended teeth cleanings can lead to gingivitis, gum disease and cavities. This can also escalate into bigger problems, like the need for root canals or crowns, or even tooth loss.”
Even with dental insurance, extensive treatments can amount to thousands of dollars in out-of-pocket expenses, compared to little or no out-of-pocket expense for preventive care, such as exams and cleanings.
A recent study found that high out-of-pocket costs are the top reason people delay dental care — a good reason to see the dentist for an annual checkup sooner rather than later.
Studies also show that oral health has connections to overall health, including an impact on cardiovascular health. Research links gum disease to inflammation that can come before heart attacks, strokes and sudden vascular events, according to Penn Medicine.
With all this in mind, review your dental plan for available benefits. Don’t have dental insurance? Dental plans can be purchased year-round and there are many affordable options.
If you have a comprehensive plan through your job, it may cover care such as exams and cleanings, and other necessary treatments like crowns, root canals, gum therapy, extractions and orthodontics (braces).
If you are between jobs or self-employed and are in need of a dental plan, online tools can help you comparison shop, and brokers can help you purchase an individual dental plan. You can also contact insurers directly to learn more about their options for individuals.
Dental Fears
Finally, if you are afraid to see a dentist — which millions of Americans are — there are plenty of ways to address that, too.
Many dentists accommodate fearful patients, offering headphones, sunglasses and other items to soothe anxieties. There are also new approaches, such as teledentistry, that allow you to see a dentist at home through imaging and communication technologies. This doesn’t replace in-person care, but can help allay dental fears.
Virtual Care
For those with dental plans through Cigna Healthcare, Cigna Dental Virtual Care is available through its partnership with dental. com, which provides a nationwide network of on-call, in-network dentists 24/7.
Using this platform, Cigna Healthcare customers can get a video consultation, and licensed dentists can triage urgent situations such as pain,
infection and swelling, and prescribe medications including antibiotics and non-narcotic pain relievers.
Cigna Dental customers can also use their smartphones to screen for potential oral health issues anytime and at no cost. Powered through its dental.com partnership, a new technology called SmartScan provides step-by-step instructions to help patients take guided photos of their teeth and mouth.
While not a replacement for an in-person dental examination, SmartScan analyzes the photos to identify potential issues such as plaque buildup, possible cavities or tooth damage.
More information is available at cigna.com and cignadental.com.
“It’s a perfect time to take control of your oral health. Innovations in dental care make it easier than ever to gain peace of mind from a checkup, or to catch the little problems before they become major, painful and expensive ones,” says Dr. Sun. (SPT)
© DRAZEN ZIGIC / ISTOCK VIA GETTY IMAGES PLUS
Pet Corner
Americans Say Their Pets Inspire Good Money Habits
Can your dog help you save? New Empower research shows that Americans associate pet ownership with positive money habits, with 39% of people saying it inspires them to be more financially responsible, and 36% saying it motivates them to reach their financial goals.
• More than a third of Americans (35%) say their pets motivate them to work harder and seek higher pay.
• Over half of Americans (57%) include their pets' needs in long-term financial planning.
• 31% of Gen Zers (28% overall) would take a pay cut for a job with flexible hours so they could spend more time with their pet; 34% of Millennials (30% overall) would turn down a higher paying job to spend more time with their animal companions.
• 41% say they'd be more likely to return to the office if they could bring their pet to work; 26%
say their dream job would offer pawternity leave (time off for getting a new pet).
• 1 in 5 Gen Zers have a dedicated savings account for their pet's needs.
The Pet Effect
The majority of pet owners (94%) consider their four-legged friends part of the family, and more than half (57%) include their pets' needs in longterm financial planning. Nearly 2 in 5 (39%) report becoming more financially responsible due to owning a pet. Close to a third (31%) saved up for pet expenses before getting one.
About 7 in 10 pet owners want to spoil their animal companions (71%), while almost a third buy things for their pets when they feel guilty about not spending enough time with them (32%). Income may also play a role in pet spending: 42% say
Preventive Care is the Best way to avoid Illnesses and Accidents
So what does this mean for your pet?
Rattlesnake Awareness... Rattlesnake Season is here. Rattlesnake bites can be treated with Antivenom and Rattlesnake Vaccinations can give you a little more time to get your Pet to Veterinary Care, call for more Information Heatstroke... Heatstroke in dogs is life-threatening and can also result in very serious complications. Recognizing early signs of heatstroke may help you remedy the condition before things get too serious, call for more Information
Outdoor Air Temperatures and Ground Temperatures differ dramatically with possible Pet Paw Burns
Simple Tests: Press your hand on the pavement for about 7 seconds OR if its too hot for your feet, it’s TOO HOT for your pets Paws. and as always, hydrate, hydrate, hydrate! Check this out
Call or Message us at (661) 888-8VET for more Information or to Request an Appointment 18597 Soledad Canyon Road Santa Clarita 91351 (On the Corners of Soledad Canyon Road and Shangri La in the Vallarta Shopping Center) Check out our List of Services or contact us at -- www.scanimalurgentcare.vet
“I
– Becky Robelotto, GDA | TLC Puppy Raiser
PET CORNER
Ticks Are Still Out Well into Fall
Dear Paw’s Corner: My dog “Austin” was recently diagnosed with Lyme disease. He’s responding very well to treatment with antibiotics. Still, I’m wracking my brain as to how he was exposed. I check him for ticks every time we go out hiking, and I’ve never found one. I avoid trails in the deep woods during the summer months, when there’s a lot of brush and ticks are out. What can I do to protect him from another tick bite?
— Zack in Asheville, North Carolina
Dear Zack I’m glad to hear Austin is on the mend! Lyme disease in dogs can be very debilitating.
The most important tool in the tick-fighting arsenal is prevention. Use a flea and tick preventive treatment — like a topical ointment or a chewable medication — to arm your dog in advance of going outside. Oral treatments often have the added advantage of heartworm medication to prevent this dangerous transmitted disease in dogs from fleas and mosquitoes.
Avoiding the deep woods in summer is one way to reduce the chance of acquiring a tick (or three, or four), but ticks can lurk right in your yard and around the neighborhood. Keep the lawn mowed and brush trimmed back, and remove any debris piles around your property. Vacuum carpets weekly and sweep and mop the floors regularly.
to the skin — and you have a 48-hour window to locate and remove an attached tick before Lyme exposure occurs.
Finally, talk to the vet about whether a Lyme vaccine would be a good choice for your dog.
Check Austin every day for ticks, even on days that you don’t go out hiking. It’s not unheard of to miss a tick in a dog’s fur, before it’s latched on
Send your tips, comments or questions to ask@ pawscorner.com.
©ADOBE STOCK
PET CORNER
MONEY
Continued from page 12
the more money they make, the more they splurge on their pets.
What would you do if your pet suddenly needed a trip to the vet? Over three-quarters of Americans (77%) would tap into their savings or emergency fund to pay for an unexpected medical expense. Enrolling in pet insurance is one way to be prepared. Sit. Stay. Spend.
Americans spent an average of $1,355 on their pets in the past year, and nearly 1 in 5 (19%) plan to spend more in 2024. On average, they spend $1,200 on food and $828 on vet bills each year. As for birthday and holiday pet gifts, Americans say they spend an average of $24 on those occasions.
Dog owners spend an average of 14% more on their pets than cat owners. But what about spending on pets versus people?
One in 3 (33%) pet owners say they buy more things for their pets than themselves, and over 2 in 5 (42%) spent more on their pets than on their closest friends. Some (16%) spent more on their pets than their significant other.
Paws and Paychecks
More than a third of Americans (35%) say their pets motivate them to work harder and seek higher pay. For some, time is money: 34% of Millennials would decline a higher-paying job if it meant more time away from their pets (30% overall). Another 31% of Gen Zers (28% overall) would consider a pay cut in exchange for a job that offers flexible hours so they can spend more time with their pets.
People's love for their pets often extends into their workplace preferences, with 41% of pet owners being more likely to return to the office if allowed to bring their pets. (BPT)
Medical Director & Owner
With over 20 years in the industry Dr. Linger has worked her way from receptionist to kennel assistant then veterinarian. A graduate of Western University of Health Sciences, she has dedicated her extensive career to cats and the practice of feline medicine. After working along side with Dr. Tracy, the original owner of The Cat Doctor and Friends, Dr. Linger endeavors to carry on the vision of cat wellness and expert medical care as the clinic’s new owner and medical director. She looks forward to continuing the expert service and care at The Cat Doctor & Friends for decades to come.
CARLIE LINGER DVM
November Gardening Guide
By Jane Gates Signal Staff Writer
Here comes cooler weather and the holiday season.
November landscapes not only offer plenty of gardening jobs to do, but this is a perfect month to take a little time out to relax in the garden.
But first, I will repeat myself about how your landscape can help defend your home. As we have once again experienced, you can never be too prepared for wildfires. Keep your landscape pruned back and clean of blowing refuse to avoid breeding pests and building up material that could ignite in a wildfire. After decades of living in Santa Clarita I have had to experience the stress of running before a wildfire — even in a built-up area. No one is immune!
Designing and maintaining a fire-conscious landscape can make your home more beautiful, more fun and productive — and safer!
If you haven’t already done so,
make sure you set back your irrigation controllers. The days are short, most plants are going dormant or semi-dormant and temperatures are cooling. Your garden needs much less water than it did in the summer.
Check out all the fun new introductions in the growing world and consider experimenting with some plant varieties you’ve never grown. Try FlowerKisser™ After Midnight English Lavender or a new variety of the California Monardella villosa: Coyote Mint “Russian River.” Check out lots more at your favorite garden center and page through the new seed and plant catalogs online or in print. Consider developing an unused piece of your property or renovating an existing part of the garden. November is a perfect time of the year to plan and build in your landscape design. The weather is cooler for working and professional help is more readily available than during the spring rush.
Start planting hardy plants and fill bare areas with native flower seed.
Scatter wildflower seeds just before predicted rains so they will get a good start before the wildlife gobbles them up.
Continue to plant onion and garlic sets and other cool season crops like peas, cabbage, broccoli, Swiss chard and Chinese greens. Root crops like beets, radishes and carrots can be seeded now, too.
Feed fish in ponds with winter food when water reaches 60 degrees and stop feeding them altogether when water temperatures fall below 50. Remove delicate water plants to a frostfree location. We haven’t had any real icy cold nights for the last few years, but they have been normal to our area in the past, so don’t get lulled by recent warmth.
Spread a layer of mulch over gardens to protect roots from cold nights and to hold in moisture from rain and irrigation.
Start pruning and trimming woody plants and roses so they are in good shape to start new growth by the end of the winter.
This is a good time of year to design replacements for water-thirsty lawns with more decorative, easier-care drought-resistant gardens. You could also add vegetable or herb gardens, permeable paving for play, sports or pets, or useful areas like patios, or sport courts.
Have fun decorating your landscape for the holidays, but keep safety in mind at all times. The holidays can be ideal times to put the garden to work for outdoor barbecues, visiting family or just a place to sneak out for a little rest and relaxation when stress starts to build up. Let your garden pay you back for all the work you’ve put into it over the year.
Asparagus Pea Plant
FlowerKisser lavendula
SENIOR
LIVING
What to Consider When Planning Long-Term Care
Long-term care is an important component of financial and personal wellness planning. Planning for longterm-care can help aging individuals maintain their independence and quality of life into their golden years.
According to the National Institute on Aging, long-term care (LTC) involves a variety of services that accommodate a person’s health or personal care needs when they can no longer perform everyday tasks on their own.
LTC can help people with chronic illnesses, disabilities or other conditions. LTC can be expensive, but planning for such needs can help families avoid financial strain and stress, and also provide peace of mind.
Types of Care
One of the initial steps when planning for LTC is to identify the available options. LTC is multi-faceted and can come in a variety of forms.
LTC can involve in-home care, with a care provider coming into an individual’s home to offer services like housekeeping and assistance with personal care. In addition, LTC can take place in nursing homes or assisted living facilities. Adult daycare facilities also may be considered part of LTC.
Payment Options
It’s important that families recognize that traditional health insurance does not cover the costs associated with LTC. In addition, Medicare cannot be used for LTC in most cases in the United States. It is essential to earmark funds or find alternatives to
cover these costs.
According to Medicare.gov, some insurance companies will enable people to use life insurance policies to pay for LTC. Long-term care insurance also merits consideration. This insurance may cover LTC facilities or even home care and medical equipment.
Families can explore all their options and find a policy that aligns with their needs and budgets.
Additional financial tools to consider are a Health Savings Account (HSA) or a Flexible Spending Account (FSA), which allow for tax-advantaged savings specifically for health care expenses. Those with limited income can be eligible for Medicaid in the U.S., which can pay for nursing home care. However, it is important to research which homes accept Medicaid as a form of payment.
Further Estate Planning
People can work with licensed professionals to solidify long-term care and financial plans. An estate attorney can help create a durable power of attorney and a living will to ensure that health care and financial decisions are managed according to a person’s wishes if he or she becomes unable to do so. An irrevocable trust also could be beneficial in managing assets and potentially shielding families from LTC costs.
Families should discuss health care wishes and other financial plans as they pertain to long-term care. Early planning can help families navigate caring for aging individuals. (MC)
Who Will They Be? Find Out
10/26/24
SOLUTIONS
Opinion
Unless otherwise stated, the views and opinions expressed are those of the respective authors and do not necessarily represent the views of The Signal.
READER LETTERS
Stats Worth Celebrating?
Of the William S. Hart Union High School District, only 63% of the students were proficient in English, 47% in math, and 44% in science. Suppose 37% of The Signal’s staff writers couldn’t spell or put together a proper sentence? What if 53% of all IRS agents couldn’t add a column of deductions? What would one say if 54% of our rocket launches blew up, killing all astronauts aboard? How could anyone celebrate such a record?
Why are our kids muddling through life? They learn from two primary sources: school and parents. It’s easy to blame the schools, but how many students are from single-parent homes? How many moms read to their kids? How many dads go to their progeny’s school plays? Then again, schools take off innumerable holidays and all summer. In some cases homework is looked down upon. One could argue that teaching is a part-time job. Its is tuff queston. I hop ouir litl ones figger out how too file out the employmnt applkations good. We kant havem linin at home fore evr!
Bill Lyons Santa Clarita
A Picture of What Is Possible
It's not often when reading of current events that I have the pleasure of enjoying a story as much as I enjoyed that of the 100th birthday of Barbara Blakey Stephens in The Signal (Aug. 5). My first reaction when looking at the two photos of her was, “Damn, she looks great for 100! I want to look like that when I’m 100.” And she looks happy, too, and I am very happy for her that she has aged with such grace and gratitude for life itself.
People age in many ways, and they age the way they do for many reasons, but Blakey Stephens (to me) is a picture of what is possible, something to shoot for. Thank you, Katherine Quezada, for writing this story, thank you to The Signal for sharing it with us, and thank you especially to Barbara for making it all possible. We must grasp at every single opportunity to smile in this world gone insane.
Arthur Saginian
Santa Clarita
Ginning Up Apoplexy
It’s fun watching folks compensate for their predicament with Joe Biden by ginning up apoplexy over the Bad Orange Man, as though the success of 2017-2020 and the failure of 2021-2024 didn’t happen. Apparently, the only thing that happened over those eight years was four hours on Jan. 6, and those patriotically queuing, selfie-stick grannies were the worst thing ever.
Rob Kerchner
Santa Clarita
Submit a Letter to the Editor Include name, address & phone. E-mail: letters@signalscv.com.
ETHICALLY SPEAKING
Why This Is All Happening
By David Hegg
In his 11-volume, “The Story of Civilization,” philosopher and historian Will Durant offered the simple yet profound observation that “nations are born stoic and die epicurean.”
Stoicism focused its adherents on living a virtuous life, which was the key to happiness. Those who study the Founding Fathers’ reliance on stoic philosophers come to understand that the Declaration of Independence’s unalienable right, described as “the pursuit of happiness,” is to be understood as the result of virtue.
and disdain. As we look around, we wonder: What happened to the pioneer spirit that bound people together to accomplish great things despite their differences?
French historical philosopher Claud Henri de Rouvroy, Comte de Saint-Simon, described the initial phase of nation-building as the “organic period” when “men are busy building.” He went on to identify the primary characteristic of a nation’s decline as when “men are busy destroying” the foundations of society.
Stoicism also called its adherents to a character that endured hardship without complaining. Even a cursory study of the first hundred years of our country will showcase the amazing perseverance of wave after wave of immigrants – from different cultures and countries – who persevered against all odds to craft and shape our nation. Perhaps without understanding philosophy, they were nonetheless exemplary stoics. On the other hand, Epicurus grounded his philosophy of life on the premise that fear of all kinds holds humanity captive. The answer? Pursue pleasure, both physical and mental, to be happy.
Increasingly, as I engage with people from many walks of life, I hear the same combination of wonderment and concern with differing perspectives. Together, we look around at what is happening in our country and exclaim, “What in the world is going on?”
Think back 15 years or so. Did we ever think gasoline would cost $5 a gallon? Did we believe millions would be pouring into our country illegally? And did we imagine a time when proof of citizenship would not be required to vote? Did we ever think our national debt would be over $30 trillion, businesses would be leaving California due to extreme regulations, and the practice of giving puberty blockers and doing transitioning surgeries to minors would be debatable?
Did we ever think that over 50% of public high school students in our district would fail to achieve minimum standards in English and math? And did we ever think that finding a person of integrity, intelligence, courage and humility to run for public office would be harder than finding a needle in a haystack? OK, I may have oversold that last one ... but not by much!
Most importantly, what has happened to “one nation ... indivisible, with liberty and justice for all”? Our nation has never been more divided. Our public and political conversations have never been this mired in outright deception
Today, we are seeing just that. We’re watching as morality is being reimagined, life is being minimized, and intersectionality, with its promotion of “victimization,” is being maximized. The result is precisely what Saint-Simon understood from his study of how nations rise and fall. We are watching as the foundations upon which our nation was built are systematically, radically, and, worst of all, publicly being destroyed.
If Durant was right, we’ve been sliding down from a stoic philosophy of mutually held, Judeo-Christian morality and truth into a morass of Epicurean self-centered, unrestrained pleasure-seeking, and we wonder why unacceptable change is happening so rapidly.
The answer to “what’s happening and why” is simple, really. We need to find our way. We’re not teaching our grand history to our children; whatever isn’t taught to the youth will be lost in the culture.
We’re losing the glue that has always held us together. Our faith in God and our dedication to the great American experiment, as described in our Declaration of Independence, Constitution, and Bill of Rights, are being tossed aside only to be replaced by progressive immorality, untruth, and, most egregiously, the denigration of American history.
And, as the saying goes, we have met the enemy, and it is us. Too many of us are sitting idly by, minds numbed, and mouths closed in a time when those who first landed on our shores and built a country would be holding high their virtue and courageously saying, “Enough is enough.”
It’s never too late to do the right thing; if enough of us have had enough, maybe it’s not too late to make a difference.
Local resident David Hegg is senior pastor of Grace Baptist Church. “Ethically Speaking” appears Sundays.
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