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TABLE OF CONTENTS NEWS FEATURES

7 Fall harvest is prime picking time 8 Let’s go wine tasting! 10 For a bon voyage, you should be careful 11 Electric car road trippin’

FROM THE CITY MANAGER

12 New Sheriff ’s Station nearly operational

FOOD 13 1 3 It’s National Vodka Day Cauliflower alla Vodka Penne alla Vodka

ENTERTAINMENT 14 1 4 ‘The Lost Sons’ — a journey from kidnapping to found Top ten movies

SENIOR LIVING

eatres • Santa Clarita Signal

15 Picking the right Medicare plan adsource@exhibitorads.com HEALTH 17 p. 888.737.2812 f. 203.438.1206 17 Reducing allergy risks in the kitchen Sunday-Thursday, October 3-7, 2021

date: delivery date: Tuesday, September 28, 2021 at 10:50:52 AM CASCS_LEM1003-HOME 19 19 Eye-catching ways to update your home

GARDENING 20 20 Attracting hummingbirds to your yard

KIDS & FAMILY

2 1 Donna’s Day: Colorful leaves in a faux leather vase Junior Whirl

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The entire content of the Sunday Signal is copyrighted 2021 by Paladin Multi-Media Group, Inc. All submitted letters and columns are strictly the opinions of the authors and not necessarily those of the publisher. All rights are reserved and no part of this publication may be reproduced without written permission of the publisher. If you would not like this delivered to your home, please call (661) 259-1000.

O C TO B E R 3, 2021

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 7

N E W S F E AT U R E

It’s prime picking time By Emily Alvarenga Signal Senior Staff Writer

hile it may not feel quite like fall here in the Santa Clarita Valley, as temperatures remain warm, the end of September signals that autumn is in the air and pumpkins are arriving from near and far. Pumpkin patches, corn mazes and you-pick orchards are just some of the fun fall activities available, with options both in and around the SCV.

Gilchrist Farm

Gilchrist Farm’s Harvest Festival and pumpkin patch has returned this fall, with free admission and parking. While the pumpkin patch is open daily through October, the festival is running weekends, featuring a straw bale maze, pig races, wagon and pony rides, as well as various games and live demonstrations, such as wool spinning, forging and goat milking. The farm even has certain days where you can bring your pets to have a photo session with your pooch in the pumpkins. Gilchrist Farm is located at 30116

Bouquet Canyon Road in Saugus and open 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily, with the festival running Saturdays and Sundays, Oct. 1-31. For more information, visit gilchristfarm.com/pumpkin-patch or call (661) 645-2517.

Underwood Family Farms

Underwood Family Farms has not one, but two locations, in Somis and Moorpark. For more than 40 years, the farm has boasted one of the largest pickyour-own farms in Southern California, with acres of pumpkins, fruit and vegetables to pick. Now through Oct. 31, visitors can join the Moorpark farm for its annual Fall Harvest on the Farm festival, featuring a gigantic pumpkin patch, pick-your-own fields, corn maze, games, rides and six weekends of themed entertainment. Underwood Family Farms is open 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily. The Fall Harvest on the Farm festival is located at 3370 Sunset Valley Road in Moorpark. For more information, visit underwood familyfarms.com or call (805) 5238552. See HARVEST, page 18

Romualdo, left, and Antonio Barrera, 2, pick out a pumpkin at Gilchrist Farm during a previous fall harvest. PHOTO BY DAN WATSON / THE SIGNAL

From left, Charlotte, Theo and Maria Clouthier of Santa Clarita enjoy a sunny day at Underwood Family Farms in Somis, looking through a strawberry patch. PHOTO BY PERRY SMITH / THE SIGNAL

When it’s CROP

MONTH

Asparagus

March -April

Strawberries

Apr.10 - June 30

Blackberries

June 1 - July 30

Blueberries

May 15 - June 30

Boysenberries

May 10 - July 5

Cherries

May 5 - June 30

Apricots

May 10 to August 15

Peaches

May 20 - September 5

Nectarines

May 20 - September 15

Olallieberries

June 1 to July 31

Plums

June 1 - September 5

Pears

August 10 - September 10

Green Beans

June 15 - September 15

Peas

June 15 - September 15

Corn

June 25 - September 30

Raspberries

July 1 - September 15

Grapes

July 10 - October 15

Apples

July 15 (early apples) - September 25

Tomatoes

July 15 - September 15

Okra

July 15 - September 15

Almonds

August 20 - December . 13

Figs

September 05 - October 31

Persimmons

September 20 - October 31

Walnuts

September 25 - Jan. 10

Oranges

Most of the year, depends on the variety. Overall, November through June. Cara Cara: late December through March; Manadrin: November through April COURTESY PICKYOUROWN.ORG

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O C TO B E R 3, 2021

Let’s go

By Michele E. Buttelman Signal Staff Writer

ine country pops with colorful grapevines, huge leaves and delightful tastings during the fall season. Starting in mid- to late-October, the grape harvest crush winds down as the leaf pageant begins its debut. Fall color in the wine country isn’t limited to just the trees, the lush grape leaves of summer transform into beautiful fall foliage, with coppers and reds accentuating grapes left on the vine. Take your pick from dozens of wineries, including Frog’s Leap, Rombauer Vineyards and Reynolds Family Winery, all worth a stop, not just for the wine but for the fall scenery, too.

Silverado Trail

For a relaxed drive that celebrates the beauty of the season, drive the Silverado Trail from Napa to Calistoga. This two-lane country road is trimmed with shady oaks and world-class vineyards. It is quintessential Napa Valley covering an area dotted with so many wineries you could travel it for a week and still not visit all of the tasting rooms. Constructed in 1852 as the first permanent road linking the 30 or so miles between the towns of Napa and Calistoga, the Silverado Trail is the bucolic, parallel counterpart to the busier State Highway 29. If you are super adventurous, and the weather is good, rent a bike and pedal the route.

Prestigious Wineries

Prestigious wineries with Silverado Trail addresses include Joseph Phelps, ZD Wines and Signorello Winery, plus the famous Stags’ Leap District collection of wineries making up Napa Valley’s famous mecca of Cabernet Sauvignon and other big-bodied reds. Signorello, in the town of Napa, was one of the few wineries to sustain major damage in the 2017 wildfires. Its winery building was destroyed, but will be rebuilt next to the vineyards and barrel room, which were spared. Some parts of the Stags Leap District, meanwhile, experienced limited damage. However, most wineries are up and run-

ning with most tasting rooms now open. There’s sparkling wine here too, notably at Mumm Napa, where you can sip the fine bubbly on an elegant patio, in a grand-tasting salon or while wandering the elaborate art gallery.

Resorts

Other turns take you to lavish wine-country resorts, such as Relais & Châteaux’s Auberge du Soleil or the gracious Solage Calistoga. To see one of the most stunning retreats in the entire region, take the long, leafy drive onto the manicured grounds of Meadowood Napa Valley for an alfresco lunch at its garden-sourced The Grill. And if you’re feeling the need to splurge, enjoy dinner at the three-Michelin-star The Restaurant at Meadowood. Experience impeccable service, meticulous farm-to-table menus and exquisite Napa Valley wines. You might consider a stay at the resort and take advantage of the spa and golf course.

Schramsberg Vineyards offers tours of their 125-yearold caves followed by an explanation of their methods of making wine, and more. PHOTOS COURTESY VISIT CALIFORNIA

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S U N D AYS I G N A L · 9

Where to Stop E Park W S F E AT U R E Bothe-Napa Valley N State 3801 St Helena Highway, Calistoga, 94515 www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=477 Far Niente Winery 1350 Acacia Drive, Oakville https://farniente.com Frog’s Leap 8815 Conn Creek Road, Rutherford www.frogsleap.com Joseph Phelps Vineyards 200 Taplin Road St. Helena www.josephphelps.com Meadowood Napa Valley 900 Meadowood Lane, St. Helena, 94574 www.meadowood.com Mumm Napa 8445 Silverado Trail, Rutherford www.mummnapa.com/visitmummnapa The Solbar Restaurant at Solage Calistoga is known for its fresh and seasonal Napa Valley menu and its relaxing, casual mood. Enjoy a leisurely dinner under the glow of a 20-foot fire pit.

Wine Caves

Many Napa vineyards have planted specimen trees like silver maples and liquidambars that dazzle during the fall season. Make an appointment for a tour at Far Niente Winery in Oakville where you can admire its 40,000-square-foot wine-aging caves, plus its stately, double row of ginkgo biloba trees. Hailing from China, these fall foliage kings are revered for their fan-shaped golden leaves that hang on long after oaks and maples have gone bare. Other wineries with extensive must see “wine caves” include Schramsberg Vineyard and Rombauer Winery.

Bothe-Napa Valley State Park

To see California’s native trees in autumn regalia, head to Bothe-Napa Valley State Park, south of Calistoga, and take a walk on the Redwood Trail alongside Ritchey Creek. Black oaks and big-leaf maples form a canopy over the creek that runs year-round. The big-leaf maples bear massive leaves, some bigger than your head, that turn a brilliant yellow in fall. Ferns, wild grape, and spice bush add to the color show. Climb to the top of Coyote Peak to get a birds-eye view of the entire forest. 

Relais & Châteaux’s Auberge du Soleil 180 Rutherford Hill Road, Rutherford www.relaischateaux.com/us/united-states/ soleil-rutherford Reynolds Family Winery 3266 Silverado Trail, Napa www.reynoldsfamilywinery.com Rombauer Vineyards 3522 Silverado Trail North, St. Helena www.rombauer.com Schramsberg Vineyard 1400 Schramsberg Road, Calistoga www.schramsberg.com Solage Calistoga 755 Silverado Trail N, Calistoga https://aubergeresorts.com/solage Stags’ Leap Winery 6150 Silverado Trail, Napa www.stagsleap.com/visit (By reservation only) ZD Wines 8383 Silverado Trail, Napa www.zdwines.com

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N E W S F E AT U R E

For a bon voyage, you should be careful By Caleb Lunetta Signal Senior Staff Writer

or some, the notion of traveling — especially on airplanes flying at a usual altitude — has always been a scary proposition. Full-year global passenger traffic results for 2020 dropped by 65.9% compared to 2019, making last year the sharpest traffic decline in aviation history, according to a report by the International Air Transport Association. “As the coronavirus began its global spread, the air industry came to a virtual standstill by the end of March,” read a report released by United Nations officials in January. “Following widespread national lockdowns, by April, the overall number of passengers had fallen 92% from 2019 levels, an average of the 98% dropoff seen in international traffic and 87% fall in domestic air travel.” Although travel slightly recovered in the later part of 2020, the widespread availability of the various vaccines across the world ushered in the next phase of travel COVID-19 pandemic. Rules remain stringent, according to SCV travel experts, and those rules remain in place to keep you, and all others safe, during your shared journeys.

By the numbers

The number of people that head through all airport checkpoints in the United States has been steadily increasing throughout 2021, according to publicly available from on the Transportation Security Administration’s website. For instance, on Sept. 19 of this year, approximately 2,075,000 travelers went through TSA checkpoints during a 24-hour time frame, but only 848,000 went through on Sept. 19, 2020. The latest figures show a gradual return to pre pandemic levels, because on the same day in 2019, TSA saw 2,517,000 travelers headed through U.S. airport security. Even when comparing the growth in the number of travelers just this year, a gradual return to normalcy is apparent. In the early part of the year, such as January, the daily average number of travelers hovered in the six-figure range; whereas late summer and early fall averages show a daily rate in the seven-figure range. “Almost overnight, we went from hardly booking anything at all to just ‘BAM!’” said Monica Vibe, a travel agent at Travel Leaders Executive in Stevenson Ranch. “People are definitely traveling and are definitely looking for next year if they’re not quite ready to go now.”

Medical advice

The latest protocols, even in view of local medical experts, can be confusing at times. But two good rules to follow, according to Dr. Jordan Michelena, a family medicine physician at Henry Mayo Newhall Hospital urgent care, are to protect yourself and use common sense.

When traveling involves airports, experts advise you try to keep as much distance as is possible between you and others.

“So, if you’re out by yourself, going for a walk in a park or something, then feel free, you don’t need to wear a mask,” said Michelena in an interview posted to Henry Mayo’s community outreach webpage. “If you’re not around somebody who looks sick or has COVID or has COVID-like symptoms and you’re out in the open, we know that the infectivity rate is low at that point.” “But if you’re going to be in a crowded room with other people, you don’t know whether they’re vaccinated, they don’t know if you’re vaccinated, then at that point, you would want to wear a mask,” Michelena added. Michelena reminded people that the first step to making sure you’re safe while traveling is to get vaccinated. “We know vaccines work from extensive decades of vaccination with measles, mumps, the flu, COVID now,” said Michelena. “We know that they do work. And so that would be step number one … I encourage everyone to get it who is eligible and who’s within the age groups. And we know that kids are not eligible to get them. So we want to be extra careful about protecting them, right? So getting vaccinated would be number one.” The second and third steps would be to wear your mask and wash your hands, Michelena said. “You want to wash your hands,” said Michelena. “And, if you’re vaccinated, you’re a little bit safer with this, but wash your hands with contact with things that you think may be COVID-related, especially if you’re around people that look sick or something along those lines.”

Travel Tips

Michelena said that when traveling, even when in airports, it is important for people to realize they

need to keep their distance as best they can. “If you’re having to travel on the plane, this makes it more difficult, but try to keep your distance at the airports,” said Michelena. “Try to arrive in a timely manner, but don’t show up too early to where you would be unnecessarily exposing yourself.” Vibe agreed that the first tip she would give is to be vaccinated, but also advised that if you plan to travel internationally, and you’re not going to be using a travel agent, that its important you understand all travel restrictions. “Every state is a little different on their mask mandates but international is where we really see a huge difference in travel,” said Vibe. “And I think sometimes what’s hard for people to understand, they can go online and book an airline ticket to a country that’s not even open.” Vibe said that if one is not prepared to adapt to quick changes, or has a solid understanding of the health requirements before departing, that it could result in you being stuck in a country or missing your chance to take a trip. As for vaccine cards, domestic travel in airports do not really require passengers to have them at all times, Vibe said, however when you land and head to restaurants or events, they might be required depending on the state. But if you’re heading internationally, you will definitely need your vaccine card, and some countries may even require you to download it. “There’s a lot of different variables out there right now, and you have to be aware that anything can change at any moment,” said Vibe. “So, what is allowed today may not be allowed in two months.” 

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N E W S F E AT U R E

Electric car road trippin’

easoned travelers know that few things match the excitement of taking to the open road. Whether you’re heading off for parts unknown or following a carefully planned itinerary, a road trip promises to be a unique experience. Drivers can up the uniqueness ante even further by taking an electric car on their next road trip. Many people who take driving vacations may fly into a new city or country and then rent a car as they prepare to hit the open road. Electric vehicles, or EVs, have become increasingly available in rental fleets in recent years. Travelers interested in trying something new may be intrigued by the chance to get behind the wheel of an EV on their next road trip. This can be a great chance for drivers who are interested in one day purchasing their own EVs to get their feet wet. Some drivers may not know what to expect when taking a long trip in an EV. Though it’s understandable to have some hesitation, the following are some ways to navigate your first extended trip in an EV. • Determine the charging time of your vehicle The automotive experts at J.D. Power note that EVs come with different types of charging systems. Level 1 are the most readily available EVs, and these come with a standard 120-volt three prong plug that’s common in modern homes in the United States. That’s convenient, but charging using a Level 1 outlet may take a significant amount of time and only provide a few miles per hour of charging. If you’re renting an EV, confirm which type of car you’re getting and emphasize to the rental agency that you prefer a car that can be charged eas-

ily and effectively. One that can be charged overnight and provide hundreds of miles of driving time after a full charge is ideal. • Look for EV-friendly lodging Many hotels now feature charging stations exclusively for guests with EVs. Some hotels include the cost of utilizing such stations in their parking fees, while others may charge an additional amount. Either way, the convenience of finding a hotel with its own charging station outweighs any extra costs, as cars can be charged overnight while guests are asleep, leaving more time to travel in a vehicle that’s fully charged each morning. • Find some RV parks along your route RVs have required charging stations for years, so RV parks typically have these stations available for a nominal fee of around $50. RVs typically are Level 2, so EV drivers that require Level 2 charging systems should be able to charge their vehicles at RV parks. In addition, many RV parks now also provide charging stations for Level 1 vehicles, though drivers should confirm which parks have such offerings prior to embarking on their trips. • Drive in moderate weather The software experts at Geotab note that cold weather affects EV range. Though battery thermal management systems have been designed to keep batteries within an optimal temperature range to minimize loss in battery performance, battery range is adversely affected when driving in extreme cold. Geotab notes that 70 F is the trip efficiency sweet spot. Drivers can embrace various strategies to keep electric vehicles running strong on long road trips. (MC) 

Dream Getaways! Book by October 22, 2021

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On Select Pleasant Holidays Vacations

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ASK YOUR AAA TRAVEL ADVISOR ABOUT OTHER DESTINATIONS AND ADDED VALUES!

CALL: (800) 741-1605 CLICK: AAA.com/EasyToPlan VISIT: Your Local Auto Club Branch 1The value listed is per booking and equals the total of the Dream Getaways offerer2 plus the AAA Member Benefit3. 2Dream Getaways offer: Valid on new bookings booked July 23, 2021 – October 22, 2021 for travel July 23, 2021 – June 30, 2022. Minimum five nights’ accommodations at a participating resort or hotel and round trip airfare required (excludes Hawai’i interisland flights). Savings of $150 is not reflected in rates shown and applies to Hawai’i, Mexico and Caribbean destinations with participating resorts. 3AAA Member Benefit: $50 activity voucher is nonrefundable, nontransferable, has no cash value and applies to the following destinations: Hawai‘i, Mexico, Central & South America and select Caribbean destinations. Savings not reflected in rates shown and applies to the following destinations: USA (excluding Hawai’i), Canada – $25 savings; Australia, New Zealand, Europe, Asia, select Caribbean destinations (Anguilla, Barbados, Bermuda, Bonaire, British Virgin Islands, Curaçao, Grand Cayman, Grenada, Martinique, St. Barts, St. Croix, St. Kitts & Nevis, St. Martin and St. Maarten, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, and Turks & Caicos), Tahiti (French Polynesia), Fiji and Cook Islands – $50 savings. 4Rate is per person, land and round trip economy-class airfare from the featured gateway (other gateways available, rates may vary), based on double occupancy for check-in on November 1, 2021 in ocean view king room accommodations at Aston Waikiki Beach Hotel on O’ahu and includes taxes, fees and surcharges collected by seller at time of booking. 5Rate is per person, land and round trip economy-class airfare from the featured gateway (other gateways available, rates may vary), based on double occupancy for check-in on December 1, 2021 in resort view room accommodations at Sheraton Maui Resort & Spa on Maui and includes taxes, fees and surcharges collected by seller at time of booking. 6Rate is per person, land and round trip economy-class airfare from the featured gateway (other gateways available, rates may vary), based on double occupancy for check-in on December 1, 2021 in junior suite room accommodations at Riu Palace Cabo San Lucas All-Inclusive in Cabo San Lucas and includes taxes, fees and surcharges collected by seller at time of booking. 7Kids 17 & younger stay free in same room as adults using existing bedding at the Aston Waikiki Beach Hotel or Sheraton Maui Resort & Spa. Occupancy limits apply. AAA Travel Alert: Many travel destinations have implemented COVID-19-related restrictions. Before making travel plans, check to see if hotels, attractions, cruise lines, tour operators, restaurants and local authorities have issued health and safety-related restrictions or entry requirements. The local tourism board is a good resource for updated information. For all offers, unless otherwise indicated: Rates quoted are accurate at time of publication & are per person, based on double occupancy. Gratuities, transfers, excursions and, for non-airinclusive offers, airfare, taxes, fees & surcharges, are additional. Advertised rates do not include any applicable daily resort or facility fees payable directly to the hotel at check-out; such fee amounts will be advised at the time of booking. Rates, terms, conditions, availability, itinerary, taxes, fees, surcharges, deposit, payment, cancellation terms/conditions & policies subject to change without notice at any time. Cruise rates capacity-controlled. Advance reservations through AAA Travel required to obtain Member Benefits & savings which may vary based on departure date. Rates may be subject to increase after full payment for increases in government-imposed taxes or fees and, except for air-inclusive offers, for supplierimposed fees. Blackout dates & other restrictions may apply. As to Air-Inclusive Offers Only: Other restrictions may apply, including, but not limited to, baggage limitations & charges for first & second checked bag, standby policies & fees, nonrefundable airfare/airline tickets, advance purchase requirements & supplier & airline-imposed change/cancellation fees up to & including the price of the fare plus any applicable fare differential (which may involve pre-notification deadlines). Air component of packaged offers may be nonrefundable; refunds are subject to supplier & airline terms & conditions. Supplier & airline fees & policies may vary. Contact your supplier & ticketing airline for more information; for baggage fees & other details, see www.iflybags.com. Rates involving round trip air transportation for travel dates or from gateways other than those advertised may differ. Not responsible for errors or omissions. Your local AAA Club acts as an agent for Pleasant Holidays®. To learn how we collect and use your information, visit the privacy link at AAA.com. ©2021 Auto Club Services, LLC. All Rights Reserved.

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O C TO B E R 3, 2021

FROM THE CITY MANAGER

New Sheriff’s Station nearly operational By Ken Striplin City Manager

he hardworking men and women of the Santa Clarita Valley Sheriff ’s Station will soon have a new facility to call home on Golden Valley Road near Centre Pointe Parkway. After more than three years, construction is nearly complete on a brand-new, state-ofthe-art station that will provide deputies and staff with the tools needed to keep Santa Clarita one of the safest cities in the nation. The development of the new station was a joint effort with Los Angeles County Fifth District Supervisor Kathryn Barger. When the City Council, along with representatives from the Los Angeles County Sheriff ’s Department and the County of Los Angeles, broke ground on the station in 2018, it marked a significant achievement in the City’s Santa Clarita 2020 strategic plan. The City is committed to enhancing public safety for all residents. Partnering with the County on this centrally located station ensures that our local deputies can deliver the best possible service more efficiently. At the time of the groundbreaking

ceremony, it was estimated that the Santa Clarita Valley Sheriff ’s Station supported roughly 293,000 residents throughout the City and the surrounding unincorporated areas of LA County. That is nearly six times the population that the current facility on Magic Mountain Parkway was built to support. When the new station opens, the 46,000-squarefoot facility will include a 4,000-square-foot vehicle maintenance facility that enables staff to repair vehicles on-site, as well as a heliport, a 9-1-1 dispatch center and a jail. The Sheriff ’s Station is also large enough to house the department’s local Emergency Operations Center, which is critical for managing resources and responding to crises during fires and other disasters. I am proud to announce that finishing touches are being put on the new Sheriff ’s Station, and station personnel are preparing to get the site up and operational in the coming weeks. The City

and County will hold a joint ribbon cutting event on Monday, October 18, at 10 a.m. to celebrate the completion of this major project. Due to public safety concerns and COVID-19 protocols, the ribbon cutting ceremony will be an invitation-only event. However, the City will livestream the entire ceremony on its official Facebook page (facebook.com/CityofSantaClaritaGovern ment). I encourage you to tune in and watch the event or bookmark the page to watch it in its entirety. A Facebook profile is not required to view the City’s page or watch the livestream. On behalf of the City, I want to thank the crews that have worked tirelessly over the past three years — and during the pandemic — to build this piece of critical infrastructure. To learn more about the Santa Clarita Valley Sheriff ’s Station project and watch a milestone video highlighting the construction process, please visit santa-clarita.com/CIP. We look forward to this new facility more efficiently and effectively serving the Santa Clarita community now and into the future.

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

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O C TO B E R 3, 2021

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 1 3

Shaken or stirred? Or, just added to food?

espite the fact that National Vodka Day was the brainchild of marketing specialist, who is going to argue when there is a good reason to enjoy the alcoholic beverage by itself or in food? Monday is that day. October 4 has been known as National Vodka Day in the United States since 2009. No one is quite sure why that day was picked, but it was and is the day we celebrate the clear distilled alcoholic beverage. If you’re not one to simply enjoy a vodka drink, maybe you’ll enjoy these recipes where vodka is an ingredient.

Cauliflower Alla Vodka

Yields: 6 Prep Time: 0 Hours 25 Mins Total Time: 0 Hours 45 Mins

Ingredients

1 tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil 1 onion, chopped 3 cloves garlic, minced 1/3 cup vodka 1 28-oz. can crushed tomatoes

FOOD

pinch of crushed red pepper flakes kosher salt 1/2 cup heavy cream 1 large head of cauliflower, (about 3 cups) cut into florets, blanched, and drained well 2 cup shredded mozzarella 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan Freshly chopped basil, for garnish

Directions Preheat oven to 375º. Make vodka sauce In a large skillet over medium heat, heat oil. Add onion and cook until soft, 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook until fragrant, 1 minute more, then add vodka and crushed tomatoes. Add crushed red pepper flakes and season with salt. Stir in heavy cream and cook 5 minutes to let alcohol cook off. Remove from heat. In a large baking dish, add blanched cauliflower. Pour over vodka sauce and half the mozzarella and Parmesan and stir to combine. Top with remaining half mozzarella and Parmesan.

By Lena Abraham Signal Contributing Writer

rue story. This is the best vodka sauce any of us in the test kitchen have ever had. It’s creamy but bright. The secret: tomato paste. Yep, the lack of canned (crushed, pureed, or whole) tomatoes is no mistake. Tomato paste has a more concentrated flavor, and texture-wise, it makes for a smoother, almost velvety sauce. To make sure that each piece of pasta is coated, we like to stir the pasta directly into the sauce while it’s still in the skillet before adding the last bit of Parmesan.

Cauliflower Alla Vodka Bake until cheese is melty and golden, 25 minutes.

A note about pasta As you can see from the picture, you don’t need to use penne. In fact, we prefer the fatter rigatoni tubes because the middles catch more sauce. Rigatoni alla vodka just doesn’t have the same ring to it, ya know?

Penne alla Vodka

Yields: 4 Prep Time: 0 Hours 5 Mins Total Time: 0 Hours 35 Mins

Ingredients

3 tbsp. butter 1 shallot, minced 2 cloves garlic, minced 1/2 c. tomato paste 1/2 tsp. crushed red pepper flakes 2 tbsp. vodka Kosher salt 1 lb. tubed pasta, such as penne or rigatoni 1/2 c. heavy cream 1/2 c. freshly grated Parmesan, plus more for serving Basil, for serving

Directions 1. In a large skillet over medium heat, melt butter. Add shallot and garlic and cook, stirring frequently, until softened, 4 to 5 minutes.

Penne alla Vodka

2. Add tomato paste and red pepper flakes and cook, stirring frequently, until paste has coated shallots and garlic and is beginning to darken, 5 minutes.

Garnish with basil and serve. (Delish) 

3. Add vodka to pot and stir to incorporate, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Turn off heat. 4. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook pasta until al dente. Reserve 2 cups of pasta water before draining. 5. Return sauce to medium heat and add 1/4 cup of pasta water and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Add half the Parmesan and stir until melted. Turn off heat and stir in cooked pasta. Fold in remaining Parmesan, adding more pasta water (about a tablespoon at a time) if the sauce is looking dry. Season with salt if needed. Serve topped with more Parmesan and torn basil leaves. (Delish) 

Did You Know? The word vodka stems from

the Russian word, voda, which means water. Rarely consumed outside of Europe before the World War II. Today, vodka is made from many different things such as beets, potatoes, wheat and even grapes. The final product doesn’t depend on the ingredients so much as it depends on the methods of production. You’re unlikely to be able to taste the difference, since by law vodka is not permitted to have a distinctive taste except for those that have been added in after distillation. — nationalvodkaday.com

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E N T E R TA I N M E N T

‘The Lost Sons’ — A baby is kidnapped, months later one is found By Richard Roeper Signal Contributing Writer

‘The Lost Sons’

 (out of four)

CNN Films presents a documentary directed by Ursula Macfarlane. No MPAA rating. On CNN and on demand.

e’ve witnessed this scene in feature films and on streaming shows time and

again. Someone is rummaging through the attic or a closet or a chest of drawers — and comes across a box containing newspaper clippings revealing a shocking secret, a secret that changes everything. The moment often seems a little too convenient, a little made-for-themovies, but it can actually happen in real life. Just ask Paul Fronczak. In the winter of 1974, when Paul was 10 years old and living a normal, happy, regular life with his parents and little brother, he was snooping around for Christmas presents in the crawlspace of the family home in Oak Lawn, Illinois, when he came across a pile of newspaper clippings detailing his kid-

PHOTOS COURTESY IMDB

napping as a newborn and his return to his parents 15 months later. Flash forward decades later, and Fronczak is still searching for the answer to the eternal question, “Who am I?” His quest is chronicled in the CNN documentary “The Lost Sons,” which, despite some cheesy re-creations and a few overwrought attempts at symbolism, offers an insightful and fascinating look at an incredible true story.

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Director Ursula Macfarlane does an admirable job of weaving together a complex, sometimes convoluted and ultimately heart-tugging story, starting at the shocking beginning. On April 25, 1964, Dora Fronczak gave birth to a son named Paul at the now-shuttered Michael Reese Hospital in Bronzeville on the South Side of Chicago. The infant was a day and a half old when a woman dressed as a nurse came into the room, said the doctor wanted to see the baby — and promptly disappeared with the child. We see archival clips of news conferences from the time, with Dora and husband, Chester, in a state of shock, and investigators from the Chicago Police Department and the FBI telling the press they were working on a number of leads. (The black-andwhite footage lends to the feeling we’re watching a B-movie from the 1960s.) We also get present-day interviews from a former detective and the former student nurse who was working the maternity ward on that day and crossed paths with the kidnapper, among others. The leads dry up, the publicity dies down, and it appears the Fronczaks will never see their child again — and then, 15 months later, on July 2, 1965, a baby in a stroller is found abandoned in Newark, New Jersey. The child’s age and overall appearance seem consistent with the missing child, and an FBI eager to solve the case brings the boy to Chicago, whereupon Dora Fronczak declares,

“Oh, my God, that’s my baby!” Case closed. But not for Paul Fronczak. Now a handsome, charismatic, middle-aged man, Fronczak is front and center for the bulk of the documentary, sharing his life story and recounting how he always felt a sense of uneasiness as he bounced from Chicago to Arizona to Las Vegas, playing in rock bands and trying his hand at acting, working as a stand-in for George Clooney on “Ocean’s 11” and appearing for a split second in the Jackie Chan-Chris Tucker comedy “Rush Hour.” When Paul’s wife gives birth to a daughter, he again begins to question what really happened to him. With the blessing of his parents (who later changed their minds and urged him to leave it alone), Paul undertakes a DNA analysis and learns he is most definitely NOT the biological son of Dora and Chester. Once again, the case makes headlines, as the telegenic Paul goes on TV to tell his story, trying to ascertain his real identity and also find the real Paul Fronczak. “The Lost Sons” provides helpful graphics guiding us along the way, but still there are times when it’s difficult to keep track of all the adopted relatives and second cousins and false leads. Eventually, though, most of the mysteries are solved, though we still don’t know for sure who kidnapped Paul Fronczak. We do learn the real Paul was raised as Kevin Baty and lived in Manton, Michigan, where he had a quiet life as a machinist and had three daughters and wasn’t interested in speaking to reporters once a DNA test confirmed him to be the son of Dora and Chester. On April 25, 2020, just 18 months after learning his real identity, Kevin Baty died. All his life, Baty had celebrated his birthday on March 14 — but he actually had been born on April 25, 1964, at Michael Reese Hospital in Chicago. 

O C TO B E R 3, 2021

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 1 5

SENIORLIVING

Picking the right Medicare plan

he pandemic has made it clearer than ever — maintaining good health is critical, and it all starts with having a health plan that works for you every day, and especially in times of greater need. If you qualify for Medicare, the Medicare Annual Election Period (AEP), which runs from October 15 through December 7, is an opportunity to ensure you have needed coverage. “Now is the time to understand and evaluate your benefits and anticipate the care you may need in 2022,” says Gary Culp, chief growth officer for Medicare at Cigna. If you’re signing up for Medicare Advantage for the first time or making changes, you can do so during AEP. In both cases, the new benefits will kick in on Jan.1, 2022. However, if you like your current plan and want to stick with it, you can do so. To evaluate your current plan, Culp recommends writing down what you like about it, including which aspects are essential to you. Based on your needs, review other plans to see how they stack up. The process of choosing a health plan can be overwhelming. However, you can eliminate some of the confusion by seeking advice from your doctor or family and friends. By attending in-person or virtual seminars or calling independent health plan agents, you can have your questions addressed by experts. You can also visit your state health insurance assistance program for additional information. In the meantime, keep these tips in mind as you review plans: Estimate total costs Make sure you know the current premium or monthly cost of your plan. Second, check your Annual Notice of Change. This is a letter mailed in late September that details changes to out-ofpocket costs, including co-pays and deductibles on doctor and hospital visits and prescription drugs. Finally, check to see the costs associated with visiting a specialist.

Ensure providers are in-network One common reason to change your

WE LOVE TO

HELP YOU

HEAR! coverage is if your favorite doctors are no longer in-network. Confirm that your current providers and any specialists you expect to visit in 2022 are still in your plan and that any new doctors you’ll be visiting accept new patients. If not, you might have to change plans or switch doctors to avoid paying more out of pocket. Review your prescriptions Review the drug pricing tiers to determine whether your prescription plan will cover your current medications and the costs. Keep in mind, some drug plans require prior authorization for certain brand-name drugs.

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Consider extras Take a close look at extra benefits, such as dental, vision, health care-related transportation and virtual care visits, that go beyond what’s provided by original Medicare and may be built into a private insurer’s Medicare Advantage plan. Some plans may even include additional health and wellness benefits that help you stay healthier, like fitness programs. Be aware of travel restrictions If you plan to travel or have another home out of state, consider plans with that in mind. Get savvy by visiting Medicare’s Plan Finder at Medicare.gov or Medicare plan websites such as www.cigna. com/medicare and use the above tips to assist you in reviewing your options. “Making sure your health plan meets your needs is up to you. After finding the right plan, be sure to take advantage of your benefits for a healthy, happy 2022,” says Culp. (StatePoint) 

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E N T E R TA I N M E N T

Geoff Tate coming to The Canyon Santa Clarita

ulti-platinum selling, Grammy nominated singer/songwriter Geoff Tate is best known for his 30-plus years as the creative and driving force behind the progressive metal band Queensryche. Since its inception with Geoff at the helm, Queensryche has sold over 20 million albums worldwide and has performed in upwards of 50 countries. Geoff is regarded as one of the most skilled vocalists in the genre with hundreds of modern,

popular artists citing him and his former band as a major influence. Combining social consciousness and expertly crafted lyrics with high-energy, melodically complex music, Queensryche with Geoff

Tate at the forefront became internationally recognized as the thinking man›s rock band. This show celebrates the albums Empire and Rage for Order, both of which will be performed in their entirety. You can see this fantastic show Oct. 9 at The Canyon Santa Clarita. Tickets are available online through Ticketmaster, or over the phone at (888) 645-5006. For more information, visit www.wheremusicmeetsthesoul. com. 

O C TO B E R 3, 2021

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 1 7

Reduce risk of allergic reactions in the kitchen

itchen safety requires a broad range of efforts to prevent injuries and illnesses. Kitchen safety should involve efforts to keep kids away from sharp objects and hot surfaces. Attempts to prevent foodborne illnesses, which can prove dangerous and potentially deadly, also must be part of maintaining a safe kitchen. The relatively recent rise in food allergies has added a new variable to the mix as well. According to Food Allergy Research & Education, a group dedicated to improving the life and health of millions of people with food allergies, a food allergy reaction sends someone to the emergency room every three minutes. FARE® also notes that, between 2007 and 2016, treatment of anaphylactic reactions increased by 377%. The increase in food allergies underscores the importance of prevention. Individuals can take various steps to keep their kitchens clean and reduce the risk of allergic reactions in their homes.

Avoid cross-contamination

The Food Standards Agency in the United Kingdom notes that cross-contamination occurs when bacteria or other microorganisms are unintentionally transferred from one object to another. The FSA notes that the most common exam-

H E A LT H

tions in the kitchen is to designate certain utensils and dishes exclusively for people with food allergies. This can reduce the likelihood of allergic reactions and serve as a safety net if dishes aren’t thoroughly cleaned.

Limit the number of cooks in the kitchen

ple of cross-contamination occurs when bacteria is transferred between raw and cooked food. Cross-contamination poses a threat when cooking for people with food allergies and people without such allergies. In such instances, cooks must make sure foods never touch and that cooking surfaces, including cutting boards and pots and pans, are thoroughly cleaned before preparing and cooking for people with food allergies. Prepare meals for people with food allergies first as an extra precaution.

Designate utensils and dishes for people with food allergies

Another way to reduce the risk for allergic reac-

Having too many people in the kitchen at one time can increase the chances that people with food allergies will eat food or touch a contaminated surface that could make them sick. This is especially so for children with food allergies, as kids may not be aware of all the foods they should avoid. Guests with allergens on their hands also may unintentionally touch surfaces, potentially triggering allergic reactions in others.

Wash hands

Cooks should wash their hands with soap and water prior to touching foods. This reduces the risk of contamination caused by allergies lingering on cooks’ hands. This may require cooks to wash their hands multiple times when preparing a single meal, but it’s an effective way to reduce the risk of allergic reactions. Taking steps to reduce the risk of allergic reactions when preparing and cooking meals is a vital component of kitchen safety. (MC) 

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N E W S F E AT U R E

HARVEST

Continued from page 7

Salinas Family Orchard

The Salinas Family Orchard is a family-owned and ran orchard in Littlerock where you can pick your own peaches, nectarines, Asian pears, apples and plums. While many of its fruits are done for the season, the orchard still has peaches, plums and apples and is set to be open through mid-October.

Oak Glen

Travel east to the “apple country” of Oak Glen for a traditional apple-picking experience this October, complete with an actual fall feel, as it gets cooler and the leaves really do change colors here. While it may be a two-and-halfhour trek from the SCV, many of the farms in Oak Glen offer more than just apple picking, and no matter how you slice it, there’s sure to be enough activities to fill your whole day, in-

cluding fresh cider pressing, petting zoos, archery and more. Los Rios Rancho, Southern California’s largest apple farm in operation since 1906, offers various types of apples, tomatoes and raspberries, along with you-press cider, a corn maze, farm fair — complete with tomahawk throwing, candle dipping, hayrides, frontier chores. Los Rios Rancho is located at 39611 Oak Glen Road and is open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. For more information, visit losriosrancho.com or call (909) 797-1005.

Santa Barbara Blueberries at Restoration Oaks Ranch

Located in the rolling hills of the nearby Santa Ynez Valley, Santa Barbara Blueberries at Restoration Oaks Ranch offers blueberries, raspberries,

blackberries and more for picking. While blueberries are done for the season, blackberries and raspberries are still in harvest, with mornings the best time for picking, according to ranch officials. In the summer and early fall, the ranch also offers stone fruits, berries and other fun fruits from nearby organic farms. Santa Clarita Blueberries is open 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays, and closed for ripening during the week. The ranch is located at 1980 Highway 101 in Gaviota. For more information, visit https://www. santabarbarablueberries.com/ or call (805) 686-5718.

Old Town Newhall Farmers Market

and veggies directly off the vine, the Old Town Newhall Farmers Market still offers some of the freshest harvests to the SCV from around the state. The market hosts a number of small family farms that carry seasonal fruit, vegetables, ranch direct meats and eggs, as well as local food artisans that bring artisan bread, baked goods and the fresh seafood. The Old Town Newhall Farmers Market is located in the Old Town Newhall Library parking lot at 24500 Main St. 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. every Saturday. For more information, visit newhallfarmersmarket.com or call (661) 799-3693. 

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O C TO B E R 3, 2021

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 1 9

Eye-catching ways you can update your home

our home is a reflection of you, and your decor should match your tastes. With some simple home upgrades, you can create the perfect space for you and your family, even if your design preferences change over time. “When we’re designing our ideal home, too often we may only think about what we want others to see and enjoy when they visit,” said Jack Goldman, president and CEO of the Hearth, Patio & Barbecue Association. “The reality is visitors account for less than 1% of your in-home time.” Consider these ideas to get started.

Add a fresh coat of paint

One of the easiest home improvement projects, a fresh coat of paint can change the entire look of a room. Whether you choose to paint the entire space one new color, opt for an accent wall in a vibrant shade or simply freshen up the trim, paint can go a long way toward adding visual

HOME

brushed nickel, black, copper and more — and styles available, you can match your cabinets to nearly any design style in a matter of minutes. Adding a coat of stain or paint is also a relatively quick and easy way to update some of the most-used spaces in your home without completely replacing the cabinets.

Upcycle furniture

appeal and reflecting your personality. Patterned wallpaper, board and batten, stone and tile can also be added to create textured accents.

style to replacing older ceiling and wall-mounted fixtures with more modern styles.

Update lighting fixtures

There are numerous easy ways to update your kitchen and bathroom cabinets to create a more updated look. One of the easiest is swapping out older cabinet pulls and knobs for more modern options. With a variety of finishes — stainless, bronze,

Proper lighting can bring rooms to life and make spaces look larger and more welcoming. You can brighten up your home in a variety of ways, from strategically placing table and floor lamps that fit your design

Give cabinetry a fresh look

You can breathe new life into your current furniture by making simple changes. The easiest would be simply rearranging your pieces and moving some to different rooms to create an updated look. You can also add decorative covers to sofas, chairs, throw pillows and more, or take your upcycling a step further and refinish a bookshelf, table or other wooden furniture with a fresh coat of paint or stain, or give it a more weathered look with some sandpaper. Find more ideas for upgrading your home at HPBA.org/house-warming. (Family Features) 

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O C TO B E R 3, 2021

GARDENING

Attracting hummingbirds to your backyard

List Your Home For

Includes FREE MOVE!

o hummingbirds frequently visit your yard? Would you like them to? There are some important things to know in order to protect the safety and promote the health of these beautiful, vibrant visitors.

Migration

After their breeding season, hummingbirds migrate south for the winter. This autumn journey is long and potentially perilous, requiring considerable amounts of energy to complete. Taking steps to make your property a safe haven will give hummingbirds an important opportunity to rest and refuel.

Birdfeeders

One way you can help hummingbirds thrive is by stocking your garden with small native species of flowers to give wildlife needed nourishment, as well as cover from predators. You may want to supplement this nourishment source with a birdfeeder too, as hummingbirds need to eat often and in large amounts relative to their size. You can make a homemade nectar with just a few ingredients, according to the Audubon Society, or purchase a ready-made version from the store. When making a selection, keep in mind that experts warn that you should stay away from hummingbird food that contains red food coloring or dye, as it could be potentially hazardous to their health. Another important thing to know is that nectar does go bad, so be sure to regularly empty your feeder of un-

consumed nectar and clean it completely before refilling it.

Safer windows

When birds are feeding, they are easily frightened and are apt to take wild, evasive flight. To avoid this from happening, position birdfeeders closer than three feet or farther than 30 feet from windows. Surprisingly, the safest placement is attached to the window itself. Whether you have birdfeeders or not however, you should also be sure to apply special decals that reflect ultraviolent sunlight in order to make your windows visible to birds of all kinds. This is because millions of birds are killed annually in the United States when colliding with windows. Those from WindowAlert have the appearance of frosted glass, but glow like a stoplight for birds, so you don’t have to compromise your own view out your window. The brand also makes a high-tech liquid called WindowAlert UV Liquid, which should be applied between decals for even greater visibility. To learn more about window decals for birds, visit windowalert.com. “Hummingbirds are not only beautiful, they are important pollinators vital to the ecosystem,” says Spencer Schock, founder of WindowAlert. “With a few simple steps, you can make your yard a safe haven for these wonderful migratory creatures.” (SPT) 

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S U N D AYS I G N A L · 2 1

K I D S & FA M I LY

Donna’s Day: Creative Family Fun

Colorful leaves in faux leather vase

“T

he leaves are definitely turning in New Hampshire,” friend Judy Barlow reported to me this week in an email, “and my three kids are always the first to point out the beautiful reds and golds in our neighborhood. But to the kids, it’s not really an appreciation of nature — it’s more a signal that their favorite holiday is coming (Halloween) and their favorite season (winter) is just around the corner. “We take them for lots of hikes in the woods at this time of year,” she wrote. “They collect the most beautiful leaves, and then we iron them between two sheets of wax paper to preserve them. Or they build fairy houses in the woods with leaves and twigs (dead materials only), and we check back later to see if any ‘fairies’ have visited.” If you are as inspired as I was by Judy’s description of fall in New England, turn a new leaf on your family activities this week and enjoy the unparalleled entertainment autumn brings. Get outside with your kids or grandkids, and if you come home with an armful of leaves, arrange

them in a snazzy faux-leather vase — one your kids can create with a recycled jar, masking tape and shoe polish.

Here’s how to make the vase to show off your fall finds: Save a glass mayonnaise or pasta-sauce jar, or you may prefer a taller vinegar or salad-dressing bottle for your leaf bouquet. Wash the jar with sudsy water and remove labels. When dry, tear off 1- to 2-inch pieces of plain masking tape and overlap in a random fashion, jagged torn edges and all, to cover the entire outside surface of the bottle. Use a soft cloth to gently rub brown, tan or black shoe polish from a can over the masking tape to create a faux-leather finish. Arrange leaves and other finds in a bouquet and set in the vase. Donna Erickson’s award-winning series “Donna’s Day” is airing on public television nationwide. To find more of her creative family recipes and activities, visit www.donnasday.com and link to the Donna’s Day Facebook fan page. Her latest book is “Donna Erickson’s Fabulous Funstuff for Families.” 

Faux-leather vase shows off fall finds.

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SOLUTIONS

PUZZLES

O C TO B E R 3, 2021

CROSSWORD TIME

O C TO B E R 3, 2021

Opinion

S U N D AY S I G N A L · 2 3

Unless otherwise stated, the views and opinions expressed are those of the respective authors and do not necessarily represent the views of The Signal.

READERLETTERS

Flaws in Plan for Haitians On Sept. 25 Richard Myers opines in his letter that we should call on nations of the world to share the burden of Haitian immigrants by accepting substantial numbers of asylum seekers into their countries. Myers ignores some very important considerations that doom his plan. First, the Haitians do not want to go to another country! Most of the so-called “asylum seekers” had already been given asylum in other countries, like Chile and Brazil, where many lived for years. Hearing the back door was open to the land of the free — free rent, free food, free education, free health care, etc., where life would provide more opportunity — the Haitians chose, as they will continue to choose, their best option. We cannot fault them. Second, the Joe Biden administration does not want the Haitians to go to another country! Democrats for many years have viewed their path to political domination as being anchored in changing the nation’s demographics. They (and we) are well aware of the rapid devolution of California from an often Red to a deep Blue state as the state was flooded with migrants. The current plan is to flood more Red states with poor migrants who are certain to vote for Democrats. The methodology for achieving this includes the policy of open borders, which Biden is implementing. John Weaver Valencia

Bucking Irrational Mandates Is it good and proper to unquestioningly obey an irrational authority? For most of America’s history, the resounding answer would have been “No!” Rugged individualism and suspicion of authority was a mainstay of our nation from its start, even as recently as the 1960s. Today it’s a different story. Case in point: wearing masks outdoors. It is plainly irrational. Yet a large number of Americans obey government demands to wear them. Telling people who have had COVID-19 to take a vaccine, when natural antibodies are longer lasting and more effective, is irrational. Telling people who have been vaccinated or had COVID-19 to wear masks is irrational. Prolonged lockdowns of healthy people are irrational. Counting on a long-tried/long-failed medieval technology to stop an aerosolized virus is irrational. Constraining kids for a germ that rarely affects them is irrational. Fanning fears over a virus with an incredibly high recovery rate is irrational. Remaking society because of an average fatality age OLDER than the norm is irrational. Yet how many of our fellow citizens think unquestioning obedience to such irrational (and thus irresponsible) dictates is the morally correct stance to take? Rob Kerchner Valencia Submit a Letter to the Editor

Include name, address & phone; Anonymous letters aren’t printed; email: letters@signalscv.com.

E T H I C A L LY S P E A K I N G

Danger of Tearing Down Fences By David Hegg

.K. Chesterton was one of the world’s greatest thinkers and writers. It is often said that he said something brilliant about almost everything in the first decades of the 20th century. One of my favorite “Chestertonisms” is this one: “Don’t ever take a fence down until you know the reason why it was put up.” Chesterton explained, “The more modern type of reformer goes gaily up to it (the fence) and says, ‘I don’t see the use of this; let us clear it away.’ To which the more intelligent type of reformer will do well to answer: ‘If you don’t see the use of it, I certainly won’t let you clear it away. Go away and think. Then, when you can come back and tell me that you do see the use of it, I may allow you to destroy it.’” Today many post-modern reformers are trying to clear away fences that have for millennia protected something society considered essential. The result very well may be a decline in our national ethic that is irreversible at best and lethal at worst. Here are a few examples: 1. Respect for Authority: Since the beginning of our republic there has been a “fence” around those in authority that demanded respect. Children grew up understanding they had to speak and act out of an inner recognition that those in authority deserved to be treated with honor because of the position they held. Parents, teachers, law officers — in fact, all adults — were to be approached humbly, and treated in a dignified manner.  Sadly, we have seen this fence not only removed but also blown up. Ask a public school teacher and you’ll hear it is almost impossible to keep order in the classroom now that students realize there will be no reprisal for disrespect. Worse, it appears respect for the law and those who enforce it have become passe in too many communities and contexts. We sorely wish that fence was still strong and in place. 2. Marriage: Common sense and honest historical research will tell you marriage as one man and one woman has been the dominant and core element in ordered society since the beginning of human history. But today we are watching that fence being torn down by a radical minority that not only hates it, but also has convinced the majority that it proclaims hatred.

To disagree with same-sex marriage is today branded a dangerous form of prejudicial animosity.  But there is a reason society had protected marriage for thousands of years. It is the basic relationship upon which all others rest. Those now championing the idea that the government can be trusted to determine what constitutes an allowable relationship are blind to the fact they are surrendering up a fundamental right. In replacing the historical fence protecting traditional marriage with a governmental power to define relationship, we are relinquishing a right essential to our humanity. Those in same-sex relationships have every right to choose their partners and live together intimately. But they do not have the right to cede to the government the overall power to determine what constitutes a marriage. 3. Christianity: At the founding of our democracy, Christianity was counted as a religion to be freely expressed. Given that ours has always been a pluralistic society, it never was the only faith-based worldview allowed such privilege. Christianity, along with other world religions, was even considered a beneficial element in American society. But today the fence of religious freedom and expression is being torn down, but not in every sphere. As it becomes more and more vogue to compliment and make room for Islam, Christianity is, at the same time, being slandered and persecuted in nuanced ways. When long held, biblically-based Christian convictions on life, death, marriage and holy living become the targets of irreligious, power-seeking civic leaders, we can only say “be careful of the fences you are tearing down for they may be protections that have benefited our society for so many years.” If you look carefully you’ll find more “traditional fences” that are being systematically torn down. And while, in some cases, it will bring progress, there is ample evidence that hasty demolition will bring lasting devastation. I only wish Chesterton were here to add his voice of warning. Then again, maybe he already has. Local resident David Hegg is senior pastor of Grace Baptist Church. “Ethically Speaking” appears Sundays. 