Helm Vision Group is pleased to introduce laser cataract surgery to the Santa Clarita Valley and surrounding communities.
A blade-free procedure, laser cataract surgery is precise and predictable, resulting in an all new level of customized patient care. Our Swiss-engineered Ziemer FEMTO LDV ZS laser applies less energy, decreasing inflammation and enabling a faster healing time, which results in a more gentle experience. The finest care available for your eyes is here at Helm Vision Group. Schedule an appointment with us today to find out more about blade-free cataract surgery and the FEMTO LDV ZS laser system.
Fall You Pick Time
By Alicia Doyle
Sunday Signal Writer
Santa Clarita residents need not look far for a real “You Pick ‘Em” experience. Throughout the seasons, farms in and around Santa Clarita burst into color, offering locals the chance to harvest apples, pumpkins, berries and farm-fresh veggies straight from the source.
Underwood Family Farms
Just 45 minutes south of Santa Clarita along a stretch of peaceful backroads, Underwood Family Farms in Moorpark offers a true harvest-time adventure for families seeking hands-on fun and freshpicked flavor.
October’s Pick-Your-Own bounty includes crisp green beans, peppery arugula, ruby-red raspberries, sweet bell peppers, beets, tender bok choy, eggplants and leafy greens. Tomatoes of every kind — baby, heirloom, and even the green varieties — share space with kale, spinach, cucumbers and an array of summer squashes.
Open daily from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., Underwood’s Pick-Your-Own fields welcome visitors year-round, except on major holidays. The farm’s setup allows guests to wander wide, open acres at their own pace, with space enough to keep comfortable distances while enjoying the simple pleasure of harvesting food straight from the earth.
Underwood Family Farms is located at 3370 Sunset Valley Road in Moorpark, 93021. For
more information, call (805) 529-3690 or visit underwoodfamilyfarms.com.
Riley’s
Apple Farm
Drive 90 minutes east to Oak Glen and discover Riley’s Apple Farm — a classic, high-altitude orchard where apples taste fresher thanks to the cool mountain air. Founded in the late 1800s, Riley’s is as much a living history museum as it is a pick-yourown destination.
During the normal agricultural cycle — which usually runs from late April to early November — guests tour the groves with a basket in hand, gathering Braeburns, Maiden’s Blush and Grimes Golden. Aside from apples, visitors can also pick from a selection of white pumpkins, zinnias and sunflowers.
Fall weekends bring pumpkin picking, old-fashioned games, campfire cooking and live folk performances. Reservations are strongly recommended, especially for group tours and educational programs.
Riley’s Apple Farm is located at 12261 S. Oak Glen Road in Oak Glen, 92399. For information, call (909) 797-7534 or visit rileysfarm.com.
Snow-Line Orchard
Snow-Line Orchard, perched high atop the San Bernardino Mountains in the historic community of Oak Glen, has been welcoming visitors for well over a century. Founded in 1898 by Isaac Ford, the orchard began with a promise to deliver “Sky High Quality” — and that dedication still shines
through today.
Each year, the orchard’s raspberry season transforms the hillside into a vibrant, pick-your-own paradise. Families arrive basket in hand, ready to fill them with plump, sun-sweetened raspberries that only appear once a year. Because the picking window depends on weather, visitors follow Snow-Line’s updates on Facebook to catch the harvest at its peak. Between brimming vines, crisp mountain air and panoramic views, it’s the kind of simple pleasure that keeps families returning year after year.
But there’s more to Snow-Line than berries. Visitors can step inside the original packing shed and cider mill, savor handmade goods, and relax at rustic picnic grounds framed by mountain scenery and historic buildings kissed by autumn color.
Snow-Line Orchard is located at 39400 Oak Glen Road in Oak Glen, 92399. For information, call (909) 797-3415 or visit oakglenorchard.com/
Prancer’s Farm
Prancer’s Farm in Santa Paula offers families a chance to celebrate the seasons in pure farm-country style. When spring and summer roll around, the farm transforms into a sprawling strawberry haven where visitors — baskets in hand — wander sunny fields to pluck their own ripe, juicy berries straight from the vine. Buying containers at the fruit stand is the first step in an outing that brings friends and families together, from backyard neighbors to big field trip groups exploring forty acres of working farmland.
By autumn, the farm’s festive spirit only grows. Through October 26, Prancer’s iconic pumpkin patch pops with color, offering row upon row of pumpkins in all shapes and sizes — everything from classic carvers to quirky heirlooms just waiting for a spot on the porch or in the family photo album. Guests stroll the patch, soaking in cozy fall vibes or searching for that picture-perfect pumpkin to carry home for baking or decorating.
Prancer’s Farm is located at 8540 E. Telegraph Road in Santa Paula, 93060. For more information, call (805) 824-7015 or visit www.prancersfarm.com.
2026 Picking Season
Villa del Sol
Villa del Sol cherry farm beckons visitors to a slice of agricultural paradise nestled in Leona Valley, where families have been cultivating ruby-red treasures since 1999. This 25-acre working orchard isn’t just another pick-your-own destination — it’s a carefully orchestrated symphony of terrain and climate. The farm cascades down a south-facing slope where morning rays warm the earth — protecting delicate blossoms from spring’s fickle frosts — while filtered warm air through the branches nurtures what becomes a once-yearly harvest.
Though Villa del Sol is closed for the 2025 season, the anticipation for next year’s harvest already begins to build in this special corner of the Santa Clarita Valley. The cherry picking season at Villa del Sol is fleeting magic, typically running from late May through early July. Dedicated caretakers tend the trees daily, preparing for those precious few weeks when visitors experience the satisfaction of plucking sun-warmed cherries straight from the branch.
Despite facing the same inflationary pressures hitting farms everywhere — from skyrocketing water costs to expensive equipment and fertilizer — the decision has been made to keep prices unchanged, a gesture of appreciation for loyal customers who understand the farm’s simple philosophy: “Pick, Pay then Eat”.
Operating with a strict u-pick-only policy, Villa del Sol requires a $10 minimum purchase per person and maintains a no-sampling rule in the orchards — a business necessity for an operation that sells cherries for just a few weeks each year.
Villa del Sol is located at 6989 Elizabeth Lake
Road in Leona Valley, 93551. While they had a short 2025 season, it is the largest cherry you-pick orchard in southern California. To keep abreast of the next season, visitwww.upickcherries.com.
JL Farms U-Pick Cherries
Though JL Farms U-Pick Cherries has closed for the 2025 season, the gates to this Littlerock orchard will swing open again come peak cherry-picking time in the Antelope Valley. As the oldest family-run cherry orchard in Littlerock, JL Farms carries the kind of history you can taste. Their 650 trees, half heavy with golden-red Rainier cherries and the rest brimming with deep crimson Lapin, Bing, and Brooks, sit just seven to nine feet tall — perfect for little hands to reach.
During cherry season, the orchard can get lively, and visitors are asked to check JL Farms’ website or “Cherry hotline” at (661) 944-9903 for daily updates. On busy days, entry is staggered to ensure everyone has room to pick at leisure. Heavy-duty plastic bags are provided for harvesting and carrying cherries home — no outside containers or buckets — and visitors should come prepared with their own sanitizer or wipes, as no washing stations are available on-site.
JL Farms keeps its orchard a peaceful, family-friendly haven. That means no picnics, ice chests, coolers, or backpacks among the trees — and chil-
Tips for Your Pick ’Em Adventure
Call ahead or check farm websites for crop updates, weather advisories, and appointment requirements. Many locations suggest sunscreen and comfortable shoes, and most operate cash-only stands. Bring containers for your haul, along with a camera to capture fall’s unforgettable colors.
You pick ’em farms invite the community to celebrate local agriculture, support family-owned businesses and soak up autumn’s sensory delights — all with a basket in hand and fresh air on your cheeks. Whether searching for the perfect pumpkin, a crisp apple, or a box of just-picked berries, these spots promise a satisfying seasonal adventure.
dren must stay close to their grown-ups. Whatever cherries you pick, you buy; sampling for ripeness is fine, but plucking stems and leaves harms next year’s crop.
JL Farms is located at 7651 East Avenue U, Littlerock, 93543. To keep up-to-date on the next season, visit cherriesupick.com.
While you’re at Prancer’s Farm you can enjoy festive fall treats, explore seasonal goodies in the gift shop and make memories that last a lifetime. PHOTO COURTESY PRANCER’S FARM
Connections: Share the Mana and Share the Table
Sometimes the most meaningful conversations happen with people you’ve just met, especially when gathered around a shared table.
With its initiative, Share the Mana, Share the Table, Teremana Tequila — the premium small-batch tequila founded by Dwayne Johnson — is proving joy multiplies when people open their doors, pull up a few extra chairs and make space for others. At a time when many are craving deeper bonds with those around them, the campaign is a powerful call to turn entertaining into something more meaningful: a chance to spark connections and spread positive energy.
From 113 Distillations to 113 Seats
The movement launched in Los Angeles with a community gathering at Skylight ROW DTLA. In a nod to the 113 distillations Johnson personally tasted while developing Teremana, the brand invited 113 strangers to sit together for a shared meal at one long table. The result was an evening of togetherness filled with conversation, laughter, great food and cocktails, where countless stories were shared and 113 strangers became friends — a living example of Mana, the brand’s guiding philos-
ophy of sharing good energy.
The Case for Connection
Recent Pew research suggests Americans are feeling less connected than ever — only 54% reported feeling a bond with their local community in 2024. At the same time, studies from the University of Chicago show people consistently underestimate the joy of simply talking to a stranger. In other words: Humans are hardwired for connection but often forget how much it lifts them up. A simple dinner party, a potluck or even a casual get-together can be enough to create those moments of connection. Here are a few ideas to try:
• Instead of sticking to the usual guestlist, invite neighbors, colleagues or friendsof-friends who might otherwise eat alone.
• At Teremana’s kickoff event, strangers were encouraged to sit side by side. Try mixing your seating chart to encourage fresh conversations.
• Begin the meal with a toast that acknowledges everyone at the table, not just for showing up, but for sharing their energy and spirit.
• You don’t need a five-course menu. A signature cocktail, hearty dish and warm atmosphere are often enough to spark connection. Remember Mana isn’t about
perfection, it’s about presence. It’s the positive spirit you bring into the room and the openness you share with others.
The Toast That Travels
While Teremana’s community tables will continue popping up across the country, it is also rolling out a global social media campaign, encouraging fans everywhere to join in. With a few simple posts, you can spread your own ripple effect of good energy, sharing what it means to you to share the Mana.
Of course, there’s no table without a toast. To help kick off your gathering, consider The People’s Margarita and the Mana Paloma — crowd-pleasing drinks that are approachable and full of character. Whether you’re hosting a cozy dinner for four or a neighborhood gathering for 40, these drinks are designed to be shared.
More Than a Meal
At the heart of Share the Mana, Share the Table is a reminder that gathering isn’t really about the menu or the drinks — it’s about the connection. When people pause to share food, conversation and good energy, they create moments that last long after the plates are cleared. The next time you gather friends, neighbors or even strangers, take a cue from this movement. Pour something delicious, pull up a few extra
chairs and remember: when you share the table, you share so much more.
For more ways to embrace the spirit of Mana and to find cocktail recipes for your next celebration, visit Teremana. com and follow on social media @teremana. (Family Features)
The People’s Margarita
Servings: 8-10
2 cups Teremana Blanco
3/4 cup lime juice
1/2 cup agave nectar
1 cup pineapple juice lime wheels, for garnish (optional) pineapple leaves, for garnish (optional) sea salt, for garnish (optional)
ice
In large pitcher filled with ice, gently stir tequila, lime juice, agave nectar and pineapple juice. Pour into rocks glasses and garnish with lime wheels, pineapple leaves and sea salt, as desired.
‘Tis the Season to Catch Spooky Entertainment
By Michele E. Buttelman Signal Staff Writer
October is the season of pumpkin patches, Octoberfests, fall foliage, hot apple cider, harvest festivals, corn mazes and spooky movies and shows. Southern California venues offer numerous fun and spine-tingling entertainment events this Halloween season.
Santa Clarita Does ‘The Time Warp Again’
The city of Santa Clarita will offer a special twonight screening of the 50th anniversary of the cult classic, “The Rocky Horror Picture Show” (1975) on Friday, Oct. 24 and Saturday, Oct. 25 starting at 11:30 p.m. both evenings. The event will be held at The Centre, 20880 Centre Point Parkway, 91350. This two-night event features an energetic shadow cast performance hosted by the 661 Arts and Entertainment Project and an interactive preshow to get audiences in the spirit. Guests can purchase prop kits onsite to join in on the fun and enjoy themed drinks inspired by the film at the bar. Costumes are highly encouraged and a photo booth will be available to capture every moment.
Known as the longest-running cult movie of all time, The Rocky Horror Picture Show stars Tim Curry as the iconic Dr. Frank N. Furter alongside Susan Sarandon, Barry Bostwick, Meat Loaf and Richard O’Brien. With a mix of comedy, music and audience participation, the film remains the ultimate interactive movie experience.
Tickets are $18 in advance and $25 at the door, while supplies last. Doors open one hour prior to showtime, and seating is first-come, first-served. Guests must be 18 or older to attend. Please note this movie is rated R and no refunds will be issued.
To purchase tickets or learn more, visit RockyHorror2025.eventbrite.com.
Hollywood Forever Cemetery Film Nights
6000 Santa Monica Blvd., Los Angeles 90038 Info cinespia.org.
What could be a better fit for Halloween than spooky films screened in a cemetery? Cinespia at the Hollywood Forever Cemetery will offer the following film nights:
Saturday, Oct. 25, 7:15 p.m. “A Nightmare on Elm Street” “A Nightmare on Elm Street”
Friday, Oct. 31 gates open at 5:30 p.m., event begins 7:15 p.m. “Scream” Halloween Party
For the first time in a decade Cinespia is hosting a Halloween-night party in the cemetery. Catch a screening of “Scream.” Lawn style seating. Free photobooth, DJs, costume contest, bar + grill. Bring a picnic with beer and wine. Rated R. Costumes are required.
The Nightmare Before Christmas Saturday, Oct. 25, Sunday, Oct. 26
Hollywood Bowl, 2301 Highland Ave., Los Angeles 90068
Info www.hollywoodbowl.com
Danny Elfman presents “The Nightmare Before Christmas” at the iconic Hollywood Bowl.
“The Nightmare Before Christmas in Concert” will feature Danny Elfman singing as Jack, Janelle Monae singing as Sally, Keith David singing as Oogie Boogie, Riki Lindhome singing as Shock, and John Stamos singing as Lock with eye-popping projections that bring Halloween Town to life.
Conductor John Mauceri, foundingdirector of the Hollywood Bowl Orchestra, will once again be leading the full orchestra and choir performing the film’s full score as the special guests perform the film’s acclaimed songs live, plus a virtuosic interlude with
violinist Sandy Cameron.
Get to the Bowl early to enjoy the Hollywood Bowl/Halloween Town transformation with special pre-show activities including a costume contest with Tim Burton-inspired costumes encouraged as well as unique photo opportunities and trick-or-treating stations.
Los Angeles Conservancy at the Million Dollar Theater
Saturday, Oct. 25
307 S Broadway, Los Angeles 90013
Info www.laconservancy.org/tours-events/lrshalloween
“Last...Remains.” Join the L.A. Conservancy for the first-ever Halloween edition of “Last Remaining Seats” with a screening of two frightful classics at the historic Million Dollar Theater in downtown Los Angeles. Catch a matinee of the classic Mel Brooks comedy “Young Frankenstein” at 2 p.m., followed by Stephen King’s “Carrie” at 8 p.m. Separate admission applies.
Candlelight: A Haunted Evening of Halloween Classics
Thursday, Oct 30, 6:30 p.m. and 8:45 p.m.
The most wonderful time of the year for those who love ghosts and ghouls and all that is eerie, upgrade your All Hallows Eve celebration with music
Books, Technology and Imagination to Your Neighborhood
By Ken Striplin Santa Clarita City Manager
The Santa Clarita Public Library has hit the road, literally, with the Library Express, a mobile extension of the Libraries designed to bring books, technology and learning opportunities directly to residents across the City. This “library without walls” is a repurposed Go! Santa Clarita bus that has been transformed into a fully functional library on wheels, ensuring no matter where you live, you have access to the resources that spark curiosity and creativity. When you experience the Library Express, you’ll find everything you’d expect from your favorite Santa Clarita Library Branch, plus more. Shelves are stocked with popular books and materials for checkout, laptops are available for use and free Wi-Fi is provided through a mobile hotspot. The vehicle is also equipped with robotics kits, allowing youth to enjoy hands-on coding activities guided by our City Librarians. Residents can even access
passport services on the go during several passport service events occurring throughout the year. On the outside, the vehicle features colorful artwork that truly depicts the City’s open spaces and rolling hills that surround Santa Clarita.
The Library Express isn’t just about lending books, it’s about creating experiences. Librarians lead computer training classes, host pop-up storytimes and organize interactive programs at every stop. The large exterior monitor can display technology demos and program information, while Sammy Clarita, featured on the back of the vehicle, invites families to catch the Library Express at its next location. Every stop is designed to offer something new for everyone. Children can learn to program robots, while parents can browse books, use laptops or learn about the numerous Santa Clarita Public Library programs. These activities encourage problem-solving, critical thinking and digital literacy, all key skills for success in today’s world. Coming up soon, residents will be able to expe-
rience the Library Express at the City’s culmination of Pet Adoption Week on Saturday, November 1, from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m., at William S. Hart Park (24151 Newhall Avenue). In addition to browsing books and signing up for Library cards, attendees can take part in special arts and crafts activities, including making personalized bandanas for dogs waiting to find their new homes.
The Library Express is on a mission to ensure that learning is never out of reach. Whether you’re looking for a good book, a chance to explore technology or an engaging activity for the kids, it’s ready to roll into your neighborhood. By bringing these services beyond Library walls, the Library Express is helping create a more connected and informed community.
Families can request a visit for their neighborhood park or community event by visiting Santa ClaritaLibrary.com/Library-Express.
Ken Striplin is the City Manager for the City of Santa Clarita and can be reached at kstriplin@ santaclarita.gov.
Variables That Can Affect Older Drivers’ Ability to Safely Operate a Vehicle
Driving is a responsibility that should never be taken lightly. Estimates from the Environmental Protection Agency indicate the average small car weighs around 2,500 pounds and the average large car weighs about 4,200 pounds, while SUVs and trucks can weigh as much as 6,000 pounds. The weight of cars underscore just how dangerous the roads can be when fast-moving vehicles are being driven by drivers whose focus or physical abilities have been compromised.
Lack of focus and physical issues can affect drivers of all ages, but the National Institute on Aging notes that age-related changes can alter a person’s ability to drive.
The NIA reports certain variables that tend to affect older adults could
compromise their ability to drive.
Muscle/joint stiffness and weakness Aging can cause muscle and joint stiffness and weaken muscles. Arthritis is a common condition among older adults and the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases reports that swelling in the joints is one of the more common symptoms associated with the condition. Stiffness, weakness and swelling in the joints can make it harder for drivers to turn their heads, effectively steer their vehicles and brake safely.
Diminishing eyesight Strong eyesight is essential to safe driving. As drivers get older, changes in their eyesight can make it harder to see pedestrians, fellow motorists, animals on roadways, and any movements outside of their direct line of sight.\
In fact, the Optometrists Network reports that aging has been shown to cause a loss of peripheral vision by one to three degrees for every decade of life. The NIA urges drivers 60 and older to schedule a dilated eye exam every one to two years.
Certain issues affecting drivers’ vision might be fixable, while others may result in avoiding driving at certain times of day, such as at night and when the sun is at its brightest, or giving up driving entirely.
Diminishing hearing Similar to diminishing eyesight, hearing loss, even if it’s complete hearing loss, can affect a driver’s ability to drive safely. Drivers must be able to hear horns and sirens from other vehicles as well as any noises coming from their own cars
that could indicate a problem with the vehicle.
Medications Data from the health policy research organization KFF indicates 89% of adults 65 and older are currently taking a prescription medicine. Medications often produce side effects that can compromise a driver’s ability to drive safely. Such effects include drowsiness, lightheadedness and diminished alertness. Aging drivers should discuss medication side effects with their physicians and what, if anything, they can do to counter the effects of a given prescription on their driving abilities.
A host of age-related variables can affect older motorists’ ability to drive safely. More information is available at nia.nih.gov. (MC)
The Latest News on What’s Happening In Hollywood
By Tony Rizzo
Aaron Sorkin’s sequel to “The Social Network” (for which he won an Oscar — Best Adapted Screenplay) will be “The Social Reckoning,” due in October 2026. Jeremy Strong will play Mark Zuckerberg, while Jeremy Allen White will play Wall Street Journal reporter Jeff Horwitz.
as Crockett and Jamie Foxx as Tubbs bombed in 2006, grossing $164 million against a $150 million cost. It would be a counterproductive career move for Powell or Jordan (who are both major film stars) to do a TV series now, unless they wrote and/ or produced it as Powell did with his six-episode Hulu series “Chad Powers.”
with his son, Ronan Day-Lewis, who also directed the film. Did Daniel really think that after working on a script for seven years with his son, he could resist playing the lead?
Sunday-Thursday, October 19-23, 2025
Multiple sources say that Universal TV desperately wants to reboot the 1984-89 NBC series “Miami Vice.” They want Glen Powell and Michael B. Jordan to respectively play Crockett (originally portrayed by Don Johnson) and Tubbs (originally portrayed by Philip Michael Thomas).
A film reboot with Colin Farrell
After seven-and-a-half years of self-imposed retirement, three-time Best Actor Oscar winner Daniel Day-Lewis has returned to acting in films. His last film, “Phantom Thread,” bombed in theaters, only grossing $52.2 million against a $35 million cost.
His comeback is in the psychological drama “Anemone,” which he wrote
I met Terence Stamp when he created the role of Alfie on Broadway in 1964, and he was dynamic and charismatic. Stamp, who died on Aug. 17 at 87, had one last dream to fulfill before he left this mortal coil. He wanted to star in the sequel of one of his favorite films “The Adventures of Priscilla, Queen of the Desert” (1994).
Stephan Elliott, who wrote and directed the original film, wanted to grant Stamp his final dream. The film wasn’t even in production yet, but Stamp spent his final months shooting scenes for the sequel. He stated that he didn’t want a digital clone of him-
Top Movies
Oct. 13, 2025
1. Taylor Swift: The Official Release Party of a Showgirl (NR) Taylor Swift, Colin Anderson
2. One Battle After Another (R) LEOnardo DiCaprio, Sean Penn
self playing Bernadette, just in case he didn’t make “the start line.”
Guy Pearce and Hugo Weaving, who respectively played Adam Whitely/ Felicia Jollygoodfellow and Anthony “Tick” Belrose/Mitzi Del Bra, are reviving their roles for the film, which will be integrated with Stamp’s footage.
m A n E
to
: 1:00 7:00 Wed: 1 00 PM; Thu: 1:00 7:00 Two prisoners form an un ikely bond as one recounts the plot of a Holly wood mus cal starr ng his favorite silver screen diva ro o Fm A n E Sun: 10:00 1 00 4:10 7:10; Mon to Thu: 1 00 4:10 7:10
After escaping prison, Jeffrey secret y lives inside a Toys R Us for six months, sur viving undetec ted while planning his nex t move t ro n: A r e s C Sun: 10:00 1:00 4:00 7:00; Mon to Thu: 1:00 4 00 7:00
“TRON: Ares” follows a high y sophisticated Program, Ares, who is sent from the dig tal world into the rea world on a dangerous mission, marking humankind’s first encounter with A.I. beings.
o n e BAt t l e A F t e r A n ot H e r E 1:30 6:30
Washed-up revolutionar y Bob exists in a state of stoned paranoia, sur viving off- grid with his sp r ted, self-rel ant daughter, Wi la p e Aco c K Wed: 7:00 PM
Bernhard Wenger ’s PEACOCK is a biting and h larious social satire about the masks we wear in the pursuit of human connec tion.
d oW n to n A B B e y: t H e G r A n d F i n A l e B Sun: 10:00 AM
As the beloved cast of charac ters navigates how to lead Downton Abbey nto the future, they must embrace change and welcome a new chapter
3. The Smashing Machine (R) Dwayne Johnson, Emily Blunt
4. Gabby’s Dollhouse: The Movie (G) Laila Lockhart Kraner, Kristen Wiig
5. The Conjuring: Last Rites (R) Patrick Wilson, Vera Farmiga
6. Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba - The Movie - Infinity Castle (R) Zach Aguilar, Ryan Bartley
Pearce’s Netflix psychological thriller “The Woman in Cabin 10,” co-starring Keira Knightley and Hannah Waddingham, recently dropped on Oct. 10. He will also star in director Ridley Scott’s postapocalyptic sci-fi flick “The Dog Stars,” with Jacob Elordi, Margaret Qualley and Josh Brolin. It’ll release in March 2026. Meanwhile, Weaving’s last film was the Australian drama “How to Make Gravy.”
James Dean may have had two films that were released posthumously — “Rebel Without a Cause” (1955) and “Giant” (1956) — but Stamp did him one better. He shot a film before it was even in production, proving that he knew how to leave his indelible Stamp on a film!
When life gets hectic, eating well can get pushed to the bottom of your to-do list. A go-to meal option due to their simplicity, versatility and nutritional benefits, rice bowls provide a convenient and satisfying solution for parents, students and busy professionals juggling multiple responsibilities.
During busy season, they can be prepared quickly and are easy to customize to suit different taste preferences and dietary needs. Typically offering a balanced mix of carbohydrates, protein and vegetables, they ensure you and your loved ones get a wholesome meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
For example, this Rice and Beans Burrito Bowl offers a burst of Southwestern flavor in just 10 minutes. Featuring the zesty and natural flavors of Minute's Cilantro & Lime Jasmine Rice Cups, it's a canvas for creativity complete with juicy pinto beans, crisp corn and a vibrant mix of salsa. Ready in 1 minute, the BPA-free microwaveable cups are perfectly portioned and can be enjoyed as a meal right out of the container when crunched for time.
To customize your culinary creation, simply adjust the heat to your liking with a sprinkle of ancho chili powder or add a touch of creaminess with a generous helping of guacamole, dollop of sour cream or sprinkle of shredded cheese. To further transform your meal into a festive feast, pair your bowl with grilled chicken, tofu or a fresh green salad.
Or for a Korean twist, consider this Quick Bibimbap. Derived from the Korean terms "bibim," which refers to mixing multiple ingredients, and "bap," meaning rice, it starts with jasmine rice and is topped with kimchi, carrots, sauteed spinach, bean sprouts and a fried egg.
The dish, which is prepped and ready in 20 minutes, can be further customized with sauteed mushrooms, tofu, seared beef, pickled cucumbers and more, but sweet, buttery Minute Instant Jasmine Rice provides the fragrant, fluffy base. Ready in 5 minutes and known for its distinctive aromatic scent, it's precooked then dried with nothing added but convenience so you can get a tasty meal made quickly.
Visit MinuteRice.com to find more meal ideas to conquer busy season.
In medium, microwave-safe bowl, combine beans, corn, salsa and chili powder, if desired.
Microwave on high 1 minute.
Mix in rice. Place lettuce in bowl and top with rice and beans mixture. Garnish with sour cream, avocado and chopped cilantro, if desired.
Serve with tortilla chips.
Quick Bibimbap
Prep time 10 minutes
Cook time 10 minutes
Servings 4
2 cups Minute Instant Jasmine Rice
1/4 cup canola oil, divided
8 cups baby spinach
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
4 teaspoons soy sauce
4 teaspoons rice wine vinegar
1 cup bean sprouts
1 cup matchstick carrots
1 cup prepared kimchi, chopped
4 eggs, fried
4 teaspoons Sriracha
4 teaspoons sesame seeds, toasted
Prepare rice according to package directions.
In large skillet over medium heat, heat 2 tablespoons oil. Saute spinach, garlic, ginger, salt and pepper 3-5 minutes, or until spinach is wilted. Transfer to bowl and keep warm.
Wipe out skillet. Heat remaining oil over medium-high heat. Stir-fry rice 3-5 minutes, or until slightly crisp. Stir in soy sauce and vinegar.
Divide rice among four bowls. Top each serving with bean sprouts, carrots, kimchi and one fried egg. Drizzle with Sriracha and sprinkle with sesame seeds. (Family Features)
Americans Cutting Back on Halloween Candy Expenses
New research from Empower finds that over half of Americans say rising chocolate prices are changing how much they dish out for candy. A third consider Halloween one of the costliest times of the year, and Americans plan to spend an average of $296 between costumes, decor and entertainment in 2025, while Millennials and Gen Z plan to spend almost double ($522, $435 respectively).
Yet despite the price tag, 51% say Halloween is one of their favorite holidays, and nearly six in 10 (57%) say the memories they make with friends and family on Oct. 31 are priceless.
Spooky Spending
Five in 10 are cutting back on Halloween spending overall due to inflation (52%), though 39% of Americans say they overspend each year, highest among Millennials (52%) and Gen Z (48%). More than half of Americans (54%) believe parents today feel pressured to spend more on Halloween than past generations. Almost a third (31%) say they end up spending more when they see friends or family doing so, even if it’s beyond their means (53% Gen Z, 50% Millennials).
Overall, Americans expect to spend an average of $296 this Halloween,
including candy $58, Children’s costume(s) $56, Adult costume(s) $46, Pet costume(s) $33, Home and yard decorations $52 and Parties and entertainment $51.
Millennials and Gen Z will spend the most ($522 and $435 respectively), while Gen X and Boomers will spend the least ($325 and $89, respectively).
Most shoppers will start looking for Halloween items in September (39%) and October (43%). Though, close to one in five Millennials start shopping for Halloween in August (16%).
Tricks to Save on Treats
More than a third (35%) say candy is more expensive this year (46% Boomers) and 19% are spending less on candy now because of rising prices and inflation. One in five end up spending more than they planned on Halloween candy (21%), even though they budget a set amount for it (20%).
Rising costs are leading to new candy strategies:
38% hunt for sales, coupons or bulk deals to save money on Halloween candy
22% buy Halloween candy before October to spread out the cost 31 admit they buy extra, knowing they’ll eat it themselves Still, some 35% say they’ll splurge
for full-sized candy bars, even though it costs more.
The Cost of Costumes
Social media also influences 29% of people to spend more on costumes, decor or events. To save money, close to a quarter say they often reuse or recycle costumes from past years (22%) or shop at thrift stores/discount retailers for Halloween looks (22%). One in five prefer to DIY or make costumes at home (20%). Close to a quarter (23%) of Gen Z and Millennials buy costumes for their pets, even if it costs extra (18% overall).
Fear and Fun
Even with tighter budgets, Americans want Halloween to feel memorable: 45% say they’d rather spend on experiences like trips or parties than decor. This year, Americans are opting for pumpkin patches or harvest festivals (31% overall; 41% Gen Z, 39% Millennials), Halloween parties (23% overall; 39% Millennials, 35% Gen Z), and Halloween theme parks or haunted houses (21% overall; 37% Millennials, 35% Gen Z).
More than a third (35%) plan to
hand out candy to trick-or-treaters, while 27% will be watching Halloween movies or streaming spooky content. About a quarter say they’ll decorate their homes or yards (25%) or carve pumpkins (23%), and just over one in five (21%) will bake or cook Halloween-themed treats. Another 18% are heading out for seasonal activities like haunted houses, corn mazes or hayrides.
When paying for these Halloween experiences or purchases, half of Americans will use a credit card to pay, while 25% will use Buy Now, Pay Later (42% younger generations). (BPT)
Understanding and Managing Menopause Symptoms
Hot flashes may be one of the better-known indicators of menopause, but women may experience a wide range of symptoms as they enter this stage of life. However, treatment options can ease, if not alleviate, most of these experiences.
Menopause signals the end of a woman’s reproductive years, beginning as early as their 30s for some women. This natural process results in the stop of menstruation with the shifting hormones also creating a list of physical and emotional symptoms.
Perimenopause, which commonly occurs in the mid-to-late-40s, lasts 4-8 years. This transitional stage is characterized by fluctuating ovarian activity, which can alter the frequency and duration of a woman’s period and disrupt estrogen production. Menopause is officially reached when the ovaries cease ovulation and a woman has gone 12 months without a menstrual period.
Despite increasing conversations among peers, many women experience disruptive symptoms and have di fficulty managing them, according to a Nielsen IQ Aging America Forecast. Additionally, 90% of women reported never having been taught about menopause in school, according to a study published in “Post Reproductive Health.”
Uncomfortable symptoms like hot flashes, vaginal dryness and weight gain often begin during perimenopause and may continue through post-menopause — in some cases, for the rest of a woman’s life. The intensity and duration of these symptoms can vary from person to person.
With 45% of women in the U.S. currently experiencing some phase of menopause, per the Nielsen IQ Aging America Forecast, K-Y, is on a mission to provide support and relief where it’s most needed and empower women to take control of their menopause journey at every stage — because if you know, you know.
Beat the Heat and Soothe Hot Flashes
Prevention is one of the most effective ways to manage hot flashes — those sudden waves of heat that often affect a woman’s chest, neck and face, sometimes accompanied by sweating and redness. Identifying and avoiding common triggers such as caffeine, alcohol or spicy foods can make a differ-
ence. Calming exercises, like slow, steady breathing, can help bring a hot flash under control as can a cold drink, cool shower or portable fan.
Deal with Dryness to Restore Moisture
Hormonal changes can cause vaginal dryness, often leading to discomfort. To alleviate this discomfort, try a non-prescription product designed to add moisture, such as K-Y Liquibeads. Uniquely formulated and hormone-free, the vaginal moisturizer is designed to provide long-lasting relief to discomfort, caused by menopause and everyday activities, for up to three days.
Master Moods from Hormone Changes
Fluctuating hormones during menopause can impact your mood, leading to unexpected emotional highs and lows. While some doctors prescribe hormone treatment, such as birth control pills, to help regulate hormone swings, you can also manage mood issues by doing activities that bring joy and minimize stress. Mindful exercise, like yoga or tai chi, can help manage your shifting moods.
Ease Your Headaches
If you’re susceptible to migraines, it’s important to know menopause can exacerbate them or even be the trigger that causes migraines to start. Knowing what sets off your migraines may be your best line of defense. However, if you’re unable to relieve the discomfort through self-care measures, consult with your doctor to adjust your current treatment plan or create a new one.
Nurture Lost Desire and Reconnect with Intimacy
As your libido fades, you may need to make a more conscious effort to maintain an active sex life. While factors like poor sleep, stress and depression can lower your interest in intimacy, maintaining regular sexual activity can support overall health, including minimizing problems with dryness and improving your mood. If comfort is a concern, a product like K-Y Ultragel lubricant can help supplement your natural lubrication. The unique water-based formula is non-sticky and non-greasy, so the natural feeling of enhanced intimacy is all you and your partner experience.
Quiet the Heat to Sleep in Comfort
Night sweats — hot flashes that happen at night — can be managed by wearing cool, cotton pajamas and using layers of covers you can easily shed. You may find extra relief from sleeping with a fan or using cooling pillows and sheets. Keeping your room cool and dark can also help promote more comfortable, uninterrupted rest.
Clear Acne and Take Control with Confidence
Pimples aren’t just for teens; they often make a return appearance as you’re walking through this new transitional stage of life. However, you’re likely more confident and better equipped to care for your skin this time around. To help prevent flare-ups, avoid oily products like sunscreens and cosmetics. Stick with oil-free options designed to keep pores clear. If necessary, talk with a dermatologist about a program designed for your unique skin care needs. Find more information on the full menopause product portfolio at k-y.com. (Family Features)
The Garden: Where Creativity Blossoms!
Why do you garden?
Yes, you enjoy the beauty of your flowers and the taste of your freshfrom-the-garden vegetables. But the real attraction likely comes from a deeper place. Connecting with that deeper place is soul satisfying. Reveling in that aspect of the garden offers rewards that go well beyond the vision and the palate. Direct your artistic impulses in any way the spirit moves — writing, painting, crafting, drawing—and your garden will enchant you in a new and vital way.
Journaling the Garden
A garden journal can take many forms. It might be a record of the sequence of blooms, and the date you picked the first tomato of the season. It can document the life stages of a back-yard butterfly from egg to larva to pupa to emergence, or a robin nestling in the holly outside your kitchen window. Or it may be an artistic outlet that helps you to examine and express, in words or drawings or collage, what most excited you on a particular day.
If you’ve never journaled before, try these exercises:
1. Sit in the same place once a week for three or more weeks, and draw the weekly changes in the scene before you. It might be a rosebud opening to full bloom and then fading, or the leaves on a branch of a tree changing from green to orange. It might be the head of a sunflower.
2. Take a moment to just listen. Write down every detail of what you hear — birds singing, leaves rustling, cicadas sounding. Make it into a haiku, a three-line poem with 5-7-5 syllables per line, respectively, if you wish.
3. Find something in your landscape that puzzles you — a weed you don’t know by name, an egg mass on the back of a broccoli leaf, a gall on the stem of a goldenrod — and document it with a drawing. Then try to solve the mystery by researching it.
4. Collect seedpods. Examine their architecture. Write descriptions.
5. See the subtle beauty in your garden. Draw a mushroom, a lichen, a decaying leaf.
Crafting the Garden
It’s hard not to bring the garden indoors in one form or another. Cutting flowers is just a first step, a jumping-off point for the creative mind. You can fill a journal page with words, drawings, and found objects by creating a collage. Or you can create a folding “book” of mushroom spore prints. Here are a few ideas to get you started:
1. Collect natural objects with different textures, such as lacy leaves, cicada wings, and the shed skins of snakes. Use them to tell a story. Add just enough words to connect the objects.
2. Collect petals of many colors and press them dry. Arrange them creatively on the sticky side of laminating paper, and press the creation into your journal.
3. Make mushroom spore prints by cutting the stem from a mushroom and placing it, gill side down, on a paper and covering it with a bowl. Within 24 hours a spore print will appear. Spray the print with fixative.
Writing the Garden’s Stories
Your garden is full of stories. How could it not be,
filled as it is with life? Discover the stories by watching pollinators in action, and watching the chain of events as your plants attract pests, which in turn attract predators. The soil, especially, is a hotbed of activity. To learn the stories, pay attention to the action. Discover the details. As you tell the stories be clear, rather than flowery, in your phrases. Your stories are acts of discovery; they can be brief haikus, or full-page essays. Try these exercises:
4. Sit, quietly, until your attention lands on a natural object. Get closer. Study it. Put the feelings it brings into words, and craft them into a haiku.
5. Outline a garden story—beginning, middle, end. Then start your story in the middle, going back to the beginning, and forward to the end.
6. As you work in your garden think of a cliché that fits the moment. “Busy as a bee,” or “pretty as a picture” might come to mind. Discard the clichés and come up with completely original similes.
For more information and resources on garden journaling, visit ArtofNatureJournaling.com. (Home Garden Seed Association)
Nowadays, you can buy just about anything online and have it delivered and installed with just a few clicks. This includes major home appliances such as refrigerators, washing machines, dishwashers, furnaces, heat pumps and water heaters.
However, making a large purchase without inspecting the product or planning for installation comes with its own challenges. To ensure a smooth shopping experience, consider these tips for buying major home appliances online.
Do Your Homework
Set a budget and determine what features are necessities and which are nice to have. When you start searching, you’ll be able to compare product features and reviews. Look for customer feedback, especially regarding durability, performance and features. For large and installed appliances like water heaters and heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) units, research system requirements including size, capacity and system type (like gas or electric) and compatibility with your current home infrastructure like ductwork.
Another consideration is if your state or municipality has local code compliances you must meet like emissions or energy-efficiency standards. This can be time-consuming and difficult for some homeowners.
When shopping online, look for retailers that have partnerships with professional and licensed contractors to help determine the appropriate equipment for your home, make the installation process easy and help you tap into local utility rebates and tax credits.
Consider the Seller
On some online marketplaces, prod-
ucts may be listed by third-party sellers who are not affiliated with the original manufacturer, meaning the product may not be covered by the manufacturer’s warranty.
Third-party sellers may not have relationships with local dealers or contractors, and most contractors won’t install or repair products not purchased directly from a manufacturer.
To help you purchase with confidence, Walmart and Bryant Heating & Cooling created a unique partnership to simplify the HVAC buying journey. Customers who inquire at Walmart.com are paired with a highly qualified and reputable dealer to help homeowners assess their requirements, offer energy-efficient equipment solutions and provide installation by trained, certified professionals.
old units, if needed.
Document Everything and Keep a Paper Trail
Documentation of higher priced items, especially those with installation next steps and extended warranties, can be helpful if you run into issues. Some of the documents you should keep (in paper and digital versions, if possible) include a final invoice, permits (if applicable), warranty terms and information, delivery and installation scope of work and timelines. Take photos before and after installation.
Examine the Return and
Warranty Policies
It’s easy to get excited about a product and not think what happens if it malfunctions, so it’s important to look for a manufacturer’s warranty and if extended protection plans are available. When you find warranty information, read the fine print. Most manufacturers require the equipment to be registered after it’s installed to realize the full warranty benefits. Look for Discounts and
Financing
Many online retailers offer financing for big purchases, including zero-interest promotions or “buy now, pay
later” options. These monthly payment options allow you to fit large purchases into your budget rather than dipping into savings. Watch for hidden fees or high interest rates after promotional periods end. For installed systems, check if you can bundle financing with installation and extended warranties for convenience. Some appliance manufacturers offer discounts on products if purchased through specific retailers. For instance, if you purchase a Bryant Heating & Cooling system through Walmart, you will receive an instant savings on the cost of a new HVAC unit and qualified customers can take advantage of exclusive financing offers.
Confirm Product Delivery and Installation
Products are easy to purchase online, but poor planning on delivery and installation can turn the process into a hassle. For larger and installed appliances, make sure delivery includes unboxing, setup and removal of
Buying large home appliances and installed appliances online can save time and money, provided you approach it thoughtfully. This is part of a broader trend toward digital convenience in home services that makes online tools, virtual consultations and price transparency more accessible. With a little research, comparison and attention to detail, you can find the right appliances to fit your home, lifestyle and budget — without ever stepping into a store.
To find more heating and cooling solutions, visit Walmart.com/Bryant. (Family Features)
Puppy Care 101: You’ve Brought Him Home, Now What?
Welcoming a new puppy into a home is a rewarding and exciting venture that comes with a good deal of responsibility. The first few months of a young dog’s life are essential for development, which impacts the puppy’s behavior, health and well-being for the duration of the animal’s life. It’s crucial to provide proper care, nutrition and guidance to a puppy in order to lay a foundation for a healthy, well-adjusted dog.
These pet care tips can help establish such a foundation.
Health Check
Make an appointment with a veterinarian for a health and wellness check upon bringing a puppy home.
Vaccinations are vital for protecting a puppy from highly contagious and potentially fatal diseases.
Core vaccinations include protection against distemper, adenovirus, parovirus, and rabies.
Initial sets of shots start around six to eight weeks of age, with boosters given every two to four weeks until the puppy is about 16 weeks old, according to PetSmart.
Additional recommended vaccines include bodetella, leptospirosis and Lyme disease. It’s key to keep a puppy close to home unless the pet has received a full vaccination series and has fully developed immunity, typically two weeks after the final vaccine.
Unfortunately, some rescued animals may have parasites like fleas or intestinal worms that also will need to
be treated under the guidance of a vet.
Nutrition
Puppies have unique nutritional needs that differ from adult dogs. They require more protein, energy and specific vitamins and minerals to fuel rapid growth.
The National Research Council of the National Academy of Sciences estimates that the energy needs of a puppy are double those of an adult dog of the same breed. Pet parents should choose puppy-specific foods that meet the nutritional standards established by organizations like the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO).
ior and temperament of a dog. The sensitive period for socialization is between three to 16 weeks of age. Exposing the puppy to diverse experiences, people, sights, and friendly dogs can help.
Socialization should be positive and involve rewarding the dog with plenty of treats and praise when it behaves well.
Training
It’s important to begin training early to establish clear communication and build a strong bond between the puppy and owner. Positive reinforcement, which rewards desired behaviors with treats, play and praise, is the training method that most experts recommend.
Due to their smaller stomachs and higher metabolisms, puppies need smaller, more frequent meals throughout the day. This means three to four meals per day until the pet reaches maturity at around six months.
Vets say puppies usually can be transitioned to adult food when the puppy reaches 80 percent of their projected adult growth. Small breeds may reach this around nine to 10 months of age, while large breeds may do so between 12 and 16 months.
Socialization
Socialization is a critical aspect of puppy care, and can shape the behav-
Begin with basic commands like, “sit,” “stay,” “come” and “leave it.” Consistency is key, and keep training sessions short and fun.
Establishing a consistent potty schedule and rewarding the puppy immediately when they eliminate in the right spot can help develop house training skills.
Getting a new puppy is a fun experience that requires proper care to ensure the long-term well-being of the animal. (MC)
These Vehicles Will Help Keep Car Insurance Costs Down
No matter which vehicle segment you’re shopping in, not all vehicles are created equal in the eyes of insurance carriers. Some cost more to insure, while others cost less. Due to a variety of economic factors, namely inflation, the cost of car insurance has risen significantly over the last five years, according to J.D. Power.
Enter Mercury Insurance’s series of most affordable vehicles to insure, which includes the top 10 most affordable vehicles to insure across popular vehicle segments including sedans, trucks and SUVs, and electric vehicles (EVs). Mercury’s research and development team has compiled the lists by examining vehicles currently available at car dealerships.
“It’s imperative that consumers research average car insurance costs for the vehicles they are considering, as this may help narrow the list. Mercury’s most-affordable-vehicles-to-insure lists are a great place to start,” said Chong Gao, director of product
SPOOKY
Continued from page 7
management r&d for Mercury Insurance. “Luxury vehicles and EVs, for example, are generally not ideal choices for those looking to maximize insurance savings. However, there are some deals to be had, as our lists do include a few upscale vehicles.”
Here are the top 10 most affordable vehicles to insure, beginning with the most affordable make and model: Sedans
• Volkswagen Golf R
• Acura Integra
• Mazda 3
• Kia K4
• Nissan Versa
• Volvo S90
• Hyundai Venue*
• MINI Cooper
• Kia K5
• Nissan Kicks*
*While these vehicles are considered small crossovers, they are included in the sedan category for this list.
at Candlelight: A Haunted Evening of Halloween Classics. Presented in a beautiful venue surrounded by flickering candlelight, expect a hair-raising evening of music from an array of spine-chilling movies, classical pieces and more presented by a string quartet.
Setlist to include Thriller, Funeral March of a Marionette, Tubular Bells (Theme from The Exorcist), Stranger Things (Theme), Beetlejuice (Theme), The Addams Family (Theme), Halloween (Theme), Prelude from Psycho, Ghostbusters (Theme), Time Warp from The Rocky Horror Picture Show, Medley from The Nightmare Before Christmas.
Trucks
• Chevrolet Colorado LT
• Chevrolet Silverado C3500
• Ford Maverick/Ford Ranger
• Hyundai Santa Cruz SE
• Toyota Tundra CrewMax
• Ford F150
• Toyota Tacoma
• Ford F350 Super Duty
• Dodge 1500/RAM Truck 1500
• GMC Canyon SUVs
• Hyundai Sante Fe
• Honda Pilot
• Chevrolet Blazer
• Kia Sportage
• Honda Passport
• Ford Escape
• Kia Soul
• Honda HR-V
• Honda CR-V
• Kia Sorento
Los Angeles Equestrian Center
480 W. Riverside Dr., Burbank 91506
Info feverup.com/m/386583
Immanuel Presbyterian Church in Koreatown
3300 Wilshire Blvd., Los Angeles 90010
Info bit.ly/43ls0o8
Delusion: Harrowing of Hell
Variety Arts Theater, 940 S. Figueroa St., Los Angeles 90015
Info enterdelusion.com
‘Abandon All Hope Ye Who Enter Here’ greets all guests.
This celebrated immersive interactive horror theater event is returning for spooky season at a new location in a century-old historic-cultural monument in downtown Los Angeles.
EVs
• Chevrolet Blazer EV
• Chevrolet Equinox EV
• Nissan Leaf
• Kia Niro EV
• Ford F-150 Lightning
• Hyundai Kona EV
• MINI Cooper SE
• Hyundai IONIQ EV (all models)
• Fiat 500e
• Subaru Solterra/Toyota BZ4X
“In today’s high-cost environment, being a savvy shopper means looking at the total cost of ownership,” said Gao. “Choosing a vehicle that’s more affordable to insure could save you hundreds of dollars annually, and that’s exactly what our most-affordable-to-insure series is designed to help consumers do.”
To learn more about saving on car insurance costs, visit Mercury’s blog. (BPT)
Enjoy elements of immersive theater with a more story-based approach to a walk-through haunted house when “Delusion” takes over the Variety Arts Theater now through Nov. 9.
This year’s theme, “Harrowing of Hell,” puts you in the middle of the action in the role of a supernatural cult member who must pass a Dante’s Inferno–inspired set of challenges.
You direct the action as you “choose your path.” Your choices will impact the story progression. Expect to encounter a “new creature you will never, ever forget” in this year’s experience.
Tickets start at $113 and there’s also a VIP tier for an additional $40 that takes you behind the scenes with a backstage tour and access to a reserved lounge.
PUZZLES
SOLUTIONS
A Fair Shot vs. Tyranny
In Santa Clarita, we work hard, raise our families, coach sports teams and build our communities. We don’t ask for special treatment — just a fair shot. But these days, fairness is in short supply, especially when it comes to the digital world we all rely on.
A handful of big tech companies — Google, Meta, Amazon — control almost everything we see and hear online. They decide which voices are amplified and which are silenced. They track your every move, shape what your kids are exposed to, and manipulate the marketplace to benefit themselves. The algorithms seemingly own us.
In California, we have some of the weakest antitrust protections in the country. That means these companies can raise prices, crush competitors and dominate entire markets with zero accountability. And they do — every single day.
This isn’t how a free market is supposed to work. It’s how monopolies operate — and it’s hurting our small mom-and-pop businesses, working families and anyone who dares to challenge their power.
We need real reform. We need to better regulate these corporate giants, restore competition, and protect the rights of everyday Californians to be heard, to compete, and to thrive.
Denise Lite Santa Clarita
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ETHICALLY SPEAKING
Are We Still Prizing Success?
By David Hegg
Ican remember when those picking teams for touch football at recess were anxious to choose other sixth-grade boys they knew would help them win. The first picks were always the athletic guys who were fast or good at throwing and catching. I don’t remember anyone crying foul when the best athletes were chosen first. We all knew that was the way the world works. Everyone knew who the winners were, and while some of us hated the fact we were left to the end, we didn’t think society somehow owed us the right to be picked first. But it appears that is changing. Being successful now means you cheated, or at least have more than your share of power, wealth and opportunity. Shame on you for being successful, and double-shame if you enjoy what your success has allowed you to be, do and enjoy. It’s too bad.
ment, those of us who do hire and assemble teams would do well to look for the following in those we choose, regardless of other factors. These are my 4 “Cs”:
Character: First on the list must be the presence of a known and exemplary character. Without this, no amount of brilliance or ability can be trusted.
Competence: Great character must be combined with outstanding ability to get the job done well. In some instances, people can gain competence, but if they don’t start with some ability, they shouldn’t be chosen.
Chemistry: The individuals you choose must align with the personalities, style and philosophy of the team leader and the rest of the team. Diversity is an excellent benefit in teams, but not if it impacts these core areas and results in fractured team morale.
I remember when, at the end of each political party’s convention, the newly nominated presidential candidates would bring their families out on stage, hold hands while the confetti and balloons dropped, all while the singers were belting out, “Will everyone here kindly step to the rear and let a winner lead the way!”
It used to be that winning meant you were good at something, skilled at something, and had persevered through years of training to achieve the top spot. It used to mean you were the kind of person others wanted on their team, or even to lead their team.
I think it is still that way, but once again, tribalism, pride and an addiction to leveling every strata of society until we are awash in socialism’s muck have raised their whining voices.
Apparently, our president thinks successful men and women are the ones he wants on his team, and he is taking shots for daring to choose those who have accomplished something. On the other hand, had he chosen someone who had no winning track record, he would have gotten shelled for that as well. When tribalism and vengeance are the rules of the day, consistency is the first casualty.
In a small attempt to add some substance to the argu-
Capacity: Choosing someone to join the team also means finding someone whose potential exceeds the job tasks they will be given. Every team needs to grow, and that means the best teams are made up of those whose past success is a sure indicator of greater successes to come.
What does all this add up to? Just this. Success is a good thing, a necessary thing, and it is essential to make sure our society continues to think so. Past performance is always the best predictor of future success, which means winners should be recognized, appreciated and allowed to win at higher levels.
And we must remember that successful people almost always battle through discouragement, disappointment, failure and loss, emerging on the other side better for it.
So, before we go criticizing those who our president has chosen for his team, let’s make sure our opinions are based on facts rather than tribal emotion. And let’s commit to pray for all our leaders, with sincere hearts, that whatever character, competency, chemistry and capacity they possess will be put to good use, for God and country.
Local resident David Hegg is senior pastor of Grace Baptist Church. “Ethically Speaking” appears Sundays.
