Sunday Signal October 25, 2020 by Signal

OCTOBER 25, 2020

Halloween is Almost Here Page 5

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S U N D AYS I G N A L · 3

TABLE OF CONTENTS

NEWS FEATURES 4 5 6 7

Having a haunted Halloween time SCV families share their plans for Halloween traditions Tips to consider before air travel this holiday season Hope and motivation amid metastatic breast cancer

FROM THE MAYOR

8 Shop local, eat local this holiday season

HEALTH 9 9 To Your Good Health: CT scan doesn’t replace mammogram

ENTERTAINMENT 10 10 ‘The Devil Has a Name’ is a ‘master class in casting’

FOOD 11 1 1 Pumpkins and the resulting spice bars and bread Perfectly Pumpkin Bread Spiced Pumpkin Bars

HOME 12 12 Must-haves for an amazing kitchen remodel

GARDENING 13 13 Effectively freeze your garden vegetables

SENIOR LIVING

14 Commit to getting the care you need

PETS 15 15 Symptoms pets have allergies, what’s behind them

KIDS & FAMILY

1 6 Donna’s Day: Bee-friendly living Junior Whirl 17 Steps to take if you’re worried about a learning side

PUZZLES 18 OPINION 19

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O C TO B E R 25, 2020

N E W S F E AT U R E

Having a haunted Halloween time, in costume By Reena Newhall For The Signal

ould you ever imagine preparing for a Halloween season like this? This year, Halloween will be set apart from all other years — specifically because of the COVID-19 pandemic and everything else that has come with it. Even though we must remain socially distanced from each other, that doesn’t mean that we have to cancel Halloween altogether. Now is the time for us to be creative. Show a positive spirit, and maybe invent some new traditions for your family. Just remember: Whatever you do, if you’re excited about it and make it fun, your kids will follow your example.

A full moon out

This year, Halloween falls on a full-moon Saturday (How spooky!), which traditionally means huge parties. How about having a safely distanced backyard party? You can also look in your local paper — The Signal — for other socially distanced, drive-through events, like parades, trunk-or-treats or whatever your local community has planned. The city of Santa Clarita, for example, quickly saw reservations fill up for its Haunted Highway event at George A. Caravalho Santa Clarita Sports Complex, located at 20870 Centre Pointe Parkway, a drive-thru event. But there are a number of other options for the family, and people can also stop by the Sports Complex to see Scarecrow Alley, a display put together from members of the community that will be at the complex Halloween weekend. And just recently, Mayor Cameron Smyth indicated that the city would permit trick-or-treating, as long as safety precautions were in place. Now kids can dress up as their favorite superheroes — wearing a mask, of course — and secure lots of sugary treats in their quest.

Neighborhood fun in costume

Beware the Dark Realm is another great community event put on by a Saugus family and a group

SCV Adventure Play Haunted House on Zoom. Register at scvadventureplay.org.

Trick or treaters enjoy Halloween in Santa Clarita last year. PHOTO COURTESY REENA NEWHALL

of volunteers who’ve all been spreading their Halloween spirit — via scares — for years. The home is free to walk through, but in years past has had a “fast pass” that offered a way past the line, with all of the proceeds going to a local nonprofit. “The Dollhouse” is another spooky local effort that’s known as a “house haunt,” of which there are a few in Santa Clarita. Club Fear is also an effort, based in Valencia, by someone who, every year, seeks to turn their property into a family-friendly scare factory for kids. If you’d like to stay indoors, there’s an SCV Adventure Play Haunted House on Zoom will be an family option you can have fun with on Halloween with the kids, from the comfort of the home. The virtual event will have options for online group activities from 1-4 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 31.

Costume trends for 2020

Even though COVID has altered our traditional Halloween celebration, A Chorus Line has learned

Club Fear 23501 Clearidge Drive

from the National Costumers Association exactly which costumes are trending this season. One of the unforgettable things to come out this past year is Netflix’s “Tiger King.” We think we might be seeing plenty of tigers, Joe Exotic and Carol Baskin costumes at some of our local Zoom parties. Though it doesn’t get released until after Halloween, we think that Black Widow, a bad-ass woman superhero played by Scarlett Johansson, is going to be huge this year. And the film “Hamilton,” since it was released by Disney+ after its original Broadway run, is sure to be a popular costume theme. Dress up as Alexander Hamilton or one of the iconic Schuyler sisters. Because masks have been mandated in many parts of the country, wigs, exotic eye makeup and colored contact lenses have been much in demand. Gaining in popularity within the past few years have been family-themed costumes (e.g., “Alice in Wonderland,” “The Addams family,” “Toy Story,” “Wizard of Oz” and, of course, superheroes) which are then used by the family for their current Christmas card — all in fun! Zombies, vampires, ghouls and goblins will be back with a vengeance this year, also. Always in style are the Roaring ‘20s — flappers, mobsters, gangsters and other “Great Gatsby” characters, which are now coming up on their 100th anniversary. While the “Pirate of the Caribbean” might not be as ubiquitous as in years past, Captain Hook, as well as Peter Pan and wenches are timeless family-friendly classics. This year may feel different, but what better way to let off steam after months of being cooped up than by getting dressed up and living your alter ego. Because of our immense catalog of products, only a portion will be shown on the website, but you can always expect to discover additional hardto-find and unique items in our store. A Chorus Line is located at 23300 Cinema Drive, No. 101, or available online at www.achorusline. net. 

The Dollhouse 27337 Denoya Drive Saugus

Beware the Dark Realm 28621 Sugar Pine Way Saugus

O C TO B E R 25, 2020

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 5

N E W S F E AT U R E

SCV families share their plans for Halloween traditions By Emily Alvarenga Signal Staff Writer

ith much of the world still in the midst of a pandemic, and the fate of trick-or-treating unknown, some Santa Clarita Valley residents, who have traditionally gone all out for Halloween have come to realize it’s more important than ever to decorate this year. “We thought this year with a lot of people not decorating and there being no Halloween really, it’s kind of important to continue decorating,” Sandy Mine said. Mine and her twin sister, Sonia Weeks, have lived in the SCV for nearly 30 years, and for about half of that, they’ve decorated Weeks’ Canyon Country home annually for both Halloween and Christmas. “This year, I was not going to decorate, but my girls said they need something normal … one happy thing that takes you away from what’s going on,” Weeks added. Similarly, Valencia resident Sheri Baker was hesitant, as she wasn’t sure how this year would go, but decided to go for it, continuing to provide the community with a bit of Halloween magic.

How it all began

“Growing up, Halloween was always my grandmother’s favorite holiday, so when we were kids, she’d always dress up, and she’d answer the door as a werewolf or something and scare kids,” Baker said. “It just became one of those holidays that was just fun.” As time went on, Baker got married and had kids of her own, so she picked up the family tradition once more. “I started out with small decorations, and I would sit (and) make cutouts of pumpkins or witches (out of wood),” she said. “As the kids got bigger, they were able to participate more after school, and all the neighborhood kids and my kids would come over and paint them.” Baker’s daughter Kate remembers her mom letting her and her two sisters paint the decor however they wanted. “As little kids, it was the funniest

Sisters Sandy Mine, left, and Sonia Weeks at Weeks’ home decorated for Halloween in Canyon Country. PHOTO BY DAN WATSON / THE SIGNAL

thing to be able to just let your creativity go wild,” Kate said. “She never was like, ‘No, do it this way or do it that way.’ She always said, ‘Just use your imagination, and make it however you want it to look.’” Each year, all the kids in the neighborhood would look forward to Halloween because they’d all go to the Baker’s house to make their decorations. “It was always cute because the girls would take their time, and they’d make it perfect, and the boys just could not make enough of them. They’d just throw some orange paint on a pumpkin and go, ‘Ok, Ms. Baker, I need another one,’” Baker said, chuckling. “It was always very fun.” Then, Baker would stake each of the decorations and put them all over the front yard, so everyone could see their creations. “Now she’s got dozens of scary (characters) that she’s been making over the years that she puts out,” Kate added. “It’s been really fun.” What Baker didn’t realize at the time was that years later, when those

kids who would come make their decorations grew up, would bring their own kids back to the house each Halloween. “I heard lots of stories from lots of parents saying, ‘I came here as a kid, and now we come every year and take pictures with all your stuff,’” Baker said. “So that’s why I keep it up, and I love doing it. It’s so much fun and super exciting.”

Family tradition

Similarly, twins Mine and Weeks have themed each year since they began putting up their decor around 15 years ago for the kids, making every year different. “My sister Sandra has a lot of get-togethers. She does Christmas, she does every holiday, and I don’t do anything at my house,” Weeks said. “The only thing I do is a Halloween party once a year — that’s the only holiday I have — so I figured, ‘Well, if I’m gonna do it, I may as well go all out.’” And they do, decorating not only the front yard, but the garage, back-

yard and every inch of the house, even the bathroom. “On the actual day of Halloween, people come through the house, through the backyard and out the front,” Mine said. “It’s the talk of the neighborhood.” “It’s kind of like a haunted house, but never too scary for young kids,” Weeks added. “The houses are very close together (in my neighborhood), so it’s a really nice community, and they really appreciate it.” In years past, the sisters have had anywhere from 1,500 to 3,000 people pass through their home, keeping track “We know because we buy the fullsized candy bars at Costco, so we keep track of the boxes,” Mine said. “We hire local kids to help us monitor the situation, make sure everybody stands in line, make sure everybody comes through once, make sure everybody behaves,” Weeks added, “and you know what? They always have. … They’re very respectful. … I’ve never had a bad experience.” Usually, they start decorating in August, but this year, they only decorated the front yard, though still concerned it’d send the wrong message to trick-or-treaters. “One of my daughters is a really good artist, and she’s going to write a really nice sign saying, ‘No treats this year, but we look forward to next year. Enjoy the display,’” Weeks said. Even so, neighbors have already been thanking them for decorating this year. “She actually had sheriff ’s (deputies) come over and knock on her door and thank her for decorating,” Mine said. “It scared us,” Weeks added, chuckling. “It was nice, especially with what’s going on now, that they took the time. “We work in the legal field so this is our fun, but I think it’s nice for the community,” Weeks explained. “If it makes them smile, even for one day, it’s worth it.” The Weeks’ decorated home is located on the 19900 block of Terri Drive in Canyon Country. 

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O C TO B E R 25, 2020

N E W S F E AT U R E

Tips to consider before air travel this holiday season By Tammy Murga Signal Staff Writer

his holiday season will look a little different for many due to the pandemic. Some may host their annual get-togethers over Zoom, while others might opt for air travel. If your plans require boarding a plane, consider taking a couple of steps to keep you and those around you safe. For one, fewer flights are expected in the coming months as airlines have had to “shave off capacity to around 50%” when compared to 2019 figures, according to a September schedule and traffic report from airline analysis firm Official Aviation Guide. Forward bookings and schedules data showed that an estimated 37,700 had booked for November, a drop of 78% from that of last year for the same month. Companies such as American Airlines announced a reduction of 86,000 flights for October, and Southwest Airlines reported a cut of 38,000 set for November and 55,000 for December. With remaining flights becoming potentially more in demand, health experts are recommending to consider traveling by car or staying home. “Travel increases your chance of getting and spreading COVID-19. Staying home is the best way to protect yourself and others from COVID-19,” read the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website.

Consider the risks

With COVID-19 developments still ongoing and a vaccine yet to be developed, health experts are asking the public to consider travel risks in planning holiday activities this year. Are you or those that will travel with you at a higher risk of getting sick from coronavirus? How about those you will be visiting or members of your household upon your return? These are questions the CDC recommends one should ask before traveling. “If you get infected while traveling, you can spread the virus to loved ones when you return, even if you don’t have symptoms,” reads the cen-

TSA recommends that travelers wear face masks and practice physical distancing at all times. MC

ter’s protocols on traveling. “Anyone can get very ill from the virus that causes COVID-19, but older adults and people of any age with certain underlying medical conditions are at increased risk for severe illness from COVID-19.” In a five-level chart, the CDC has categorized travel activities, from transportation to food and lodging from the lowest risk to high risk. Flights with layovers, traveling on a cruise ship, eating inside a restaurant with little physical distancing and staying at shared spaces with multiple people outside one’s household — such as a hostel or shared hotel rooms — are considered among the most at-risk activities. Lower-risk alternatives include short trips by cars with household members only and staying at vacation rentals with those from your home unit.

Research your destination

COVID-19 guidelines per county, let alone at every state and country. Be sure to check out state, territorial, tribal and local public health websites for updated requirements, which can range from lesser or more restrictive dining protocols to requirements for recent travelers to stay home for up to 14 days.

Say, for example, you are traveling to a different part of California, state Public Health officials recommend to frequently check local rules, as counties are changing between tiers in California’s four-tiered reopening blueprint and as firefighters continue to battle ongoing wildfires. “Know that local rules are constantly changing and may change even after you start your trip,” reads the state’s coronavirus website. Whether you’re traveling across the state or hosting family, visitcalifornia. com offers current travel alerts and a collection of local and regional tourism offices with pandemic-related updates to learn about or share with others. The site includes “travel sites that provide general travel information, as well as specially built COVID-19 update pages that offer (information) on hotels and restaurants, as well as event cancellations, transportation schedule changes (and) attraction openings.” For international travel, which could require mandatory testing or quarantine, visit the destination’s Offices of Foreign Affairs or Ministry of Health, and the U.S. Department of State, Bureau of Consular Affairs,

Country Information site at travel. state.gov.

Booking a flight

When booking a flight, look into several measures that will help keep you and those around you safe, such as booking an earlier flight where fewer people are expected to gather at security lines and airport terminals and check out airlines’ seat blocking policies. Here are three to consider: • Alaska Airlines: Applicable through Nov. 30 • Southwest Airlines: Applicable through Nov. 30 • Delta Airlines: Applicable through Jan. 6, 2021 Before arriving at the airport, the Transportation Security Administration recommends learning about the protective measures for the screening process. Guidelines include that travelers practice six feet of distance, wear face coverings and be aware that they may have to adjust or remove their masks for ID verification, and travelers will be allowed one liquid hand sanitizer container of up to 12 ounces in carry-on bags. For more information, visit tea.gov/ coronavirus. 

O C TO B E R 25, 2020

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 7

N E W S F E AT U R E

Hope and motivation amid metastatic breast cancer By Tammy Murga Signal Staff Writer

hey call it the sleeping bear. To the three Crawford kids, each of ages 10 and younger, their mother, Eva, has a condition that’s best when it lays low and when it wakes up its all hands on deck to put it back to rest. “My husband told them, ‘Mommy has cancer, so that means we’ll have someone come help us with the chores while mommy rests,’” said Eva. “We said that it’s like a bear and, right now, the cancer is sleeping; and if it tries to wake up at any time, we try to put the bear to sleep again.” Eva, the daughter of Santa Clarita City Councilman Bill Miranda, grew up locally and later relocated to Ventura County. She was diagnosed with stage 4 metastatic breast cancer in late July 2018. She and her family were in New York when she received the news. “Our trip had to stop in the middle because of the call so we rushed back home to UCLA and I thought that I had stage 2 breast cancer,” said Eva. “And a few days later when we did a test they found innumerable tumors all up and down my spine, my hip, my bones, all over the place. I was immediately moved to stage 4.” Metastatic breast cancer is one that has spread beyond the breasts and nearby lymph nodes to other parts of the body, most commonly to the bones, liver, lungs and the brain, according to the American Cancer Society. Stage 4 is currently considered incurable, and its three to five-year survival for metastatic breast cancer is about 28%, according to the National Cancer Institute. And while there is no cure, treatments can, for months at a time, keep the cancer under control — or, as the Crawfords say, keep the bear asleep. Life with metastatic breast cancer slowed down significantly for Eva, she said. “When I was initially diagnosed, I had trauma in my left hip and I had to go into surgery right away because it was about to break,” she said. “So, I went and got a rod placed into my left hip and that was my introduction to metastatic breast cancer. At that time,

Eva Crawford stands with her children, from left to right, Hudson, 8, Layla, 6, and Tucker, 10 (from left to right). PHOTO BY BOBBY BLOCK / THE SIGNAL

I slowed down.” That’s when physical therapists frequented the Crawford household to provide palliative care, a new life, with no end in sight, Eva and the family had to adjust. “I was very shocked,” she said. “I was just devastated at the thought of not being able to raise my kids and live a long, healthy life because before this, I was running, I was biking, hiking and doing lots of yoga. I was very active and very healthy. So, I didn’t expect to go from that to a terminal illness.” Despite the changes and the challenges, Eva knew she wanted more out of her new journey. “I knew before I got diagnosed that I wanted to make a documentary,” she said. “For me, it’s so important to

look at the journey from the lens of people that are interested in knowing how you’re doing. I put myself in other people’s shoes and think, ‘If one of my friends were going through terminal cancer, I would want to know exactly what that friend is going through. How do they feel? How do they look? How do they feel on the inside?” In partnering with a friend Vinny Randazzo, a four-time Emmy Award-winning producer and documentary director, “Eva’s Journey” was born. The project currently has footage from the past two years, documenting Eva’s surgeries and treatments, how the family’s life has changed and her support system, as well as interviews with other cancer patients.

“My husband is my rock, he’s so strong. My parents and friends have also been extremely supportive and these two years capture that,” she said. Bringing a documentary about her journey is a “dream come true,” said Eva. “If I can use this experience and the platform I was given to encourage and bring light to my fellow fighters, their loved ones and mine — through sharing, I feel a higher purpose to my days,” she said in a statement on her GoFundMe page, which has collected more than $9,500 to cover for the production and completion of the film. Eva said she and her team would like to finish the project within the next two years. “But it’s not just, ‘How do I do those two years?’” she said. “But, ‘Can I survive the average life span?’” Her journey is much more than just survival, she said. It’s about inspiring, spreading hope and educating others -- something her parents have been vocal about. Earlier in October, Miranda shared a video before the City Council about his daughter’s journey for Breast Cancer Awareness Month and urged the community to get involved in awareness efforts. “While money is donated each October for breast cancer research, much needs to be done to understand, treat and reduce cases of this disease,” he said. “Education for everyone, as well as access to vital services and resources will help our society in the fight against breast cancer.” For Eva, her children are her biggest motivation and through her journey, she hopes people can find their passions and motivations to help them push through their challenges. “I’ve never quit a job in my life, and I’m not going to quit now. Raising them is the most important thing I have, and I hope to see them get into college and choose their professions. I hope that anyone watching the documentary, that if they have a goal to travel and if I give them hope then I did my job.” To learn and to donate, visit evasjourney.org. 

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O C TO B E R 25, 2020

F R O M T H E M AY O R

Shop local and eat local this holiday season By Cameron Smyth Santa Clarita City Mayor

he holiday season is quickly approaching, and there is no better time than now to shop local and eat local. As we reflect on 2020, we have to acknowledge the tremendous challenges faced by businesses, both big and small, throughout our community. To this day, many of them are still struggling to get back on their feet and face uncertainty over the future as coronavirus (COVID-19) questions and restrictions linger. The best way for us to support them, and Santa Clarita as a whole at this time, is to choose to shop locally. One element that Southern California is often praised for is its weather. Excluding our hotter days,

ENDORSED BY

we’re lucky to have mostly sunny and breezy weather year-round. This means dining al fresco is always a possibility for us! Consider trying an outdoor dining experience, if you have not done so already, at one of our local food establishments. It’s amazing to see the creativity and resilience of many of our restaurants in quickly transitioning their services to a safe outdoor experience. Many of them have taken advantage of the City’s Eat Local program, which provides restaurants with the necessary permits for expanding operations onto private sidewalks, common areas and parking spaces at no charge. These promising developments are necessary steps for bringing normalcy back to Santa Clarita. I urge each of you to consider a safe dining experience at one of our local restaurants to continue supporting them during these difficult times.

Congressman Mike Garcia Assemblyman Scott Wilk Mayor Cameron Smyth Councilmember Bob Kellar Councilmember Bill Miranda Councilmember Laurene Weste COC Board Member Mike Berger All Hart District Board Members Mrs. Storli, Dr. Moore, Mr. Jensen, Mr. Messina

Another way you can help keep Santa Clarita businesses in operation, while also benefitting our local economy, is by shopping locally. I’m certain that everything, or almost everything, on your holiday shopping and gifting lists can be found locally at one of our many businesses. Plus, there is no greater gift you can give to businesses than simply patronizing them. Take a trip to the Old Town Newhall Farmer’s Market to grab fresh goods for a holiday treat or dish, purchase a gift card from a local clothing boutique for a loved one or treat your kids to a grab-and-go art or painting project from a local craft store. Our diverse set of businesses in Santa Clarita make gifting easy for every need and every interest! Excellent resources for finding open businesses and businesses with modified services in our community include VisitSantaClarita.com

and SignalSCV.com/Coronavirus/ Businesses-Open/. I am so proud of the strides we have made over the last few months to get Santa Clarita back to normal while keeping our residents safe. Thank you to every business in our community for your continued patience as we all navigate this uncharted territory. To show our care for these businesses, it is crucial for each of us to shop local and eat local. Every local business and restaurant relies on us to continue operations, just as we rely on them to keep our community unique and to boost our local economy. Let’s do the best we can to support them this holiday season! Mayor Cameron Smyth is a member of the Santa Clarita City Council and can be reached at csmyth@santa-clarita.com. The views expressed in his column are those of the City and do not necessarily reflect those of The Signal. 

O C TO B E R 25, 2020

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 9

H E A LT H

To your good health —

Chest CT can’t replace screening mammogram By Keith Roach, M.D. Signal Contributing Writer

Dear Dr. Roach I am due to have a mammogram, but around the same time I am supposed to have a chest CT as a follow-up to my chondrosarcoma cancer. I have a CT every other year, and an X-ray on the opposite years of both my affected arm and my lungs. Does a chest CT have the potential of showing a similar finding as a mammogram? I would just as soon not have to expose myself to so much radiation all in one month. I’m 66. There is a history of postmenopausal breast cancer in my family, in my mother’s mother. — T.M.H. Answer A mammogram is an X-ray that is designed specifically to look for abnormalities in breast tissue. Mammograms have been extensively studied and proven to reduce mortality in women between the ages of 50-74 (outside these ages, there re-

mains extreme controversy). CT scans are X-rays taken from many angles and then reconstructed in a computer to provide a look at many slices of the part of the body being looked at. A CT scanner can be set to emphasize bones or soft tissue, and work is ongoing now with CT scans designed specifically for breast abnormalities. The CT scan you get as follow-up to your chondrosarcoma (a rare cancer of cartilage) is designed to look in lung tissue for abnormalities, and has not been evaluated as a means of screening for breast cancer, although I do know that some may be found anecdotally. The CT scans you get as a part of your cancer follow-up are not an adequate substitute for ongoing mammography, which is particularly important in your case due to a family history. I do understand the concern about radiation, but a mammogram has very little radiation — approxi-

mately the same you would get from naturally occurring radiation sources in seven weeks of walking around. Dear Dr. Roach I read a news report that vasectomy increases risk of prostate cancer. Should men avoid this procedure due to concern for prostate cancer? — T.S.V. Answer Several studies have looked at this possibility, and the results are conflicting. A 2014 study of about 50,000 U.S. men showed an increase of about 15% in the risk of fatal prostate cancer, but a 2016 study of 360,000 U.S. men showed no increase in risk. In June 2019, a study of over 2 million Danish men showed a 15% increase in overall prostate cancer risk. To put the risk in perspective, about 500 men would need to have a vasectomy for one additional man to get prostate cancer, in the Danish study. It is not clear that the vasectomy caused the prostate cancer.

It is possible that there is something about men who choose vasectomy that puts them at higher risk to begin with; however, the authors were unable to find a known risk factor to support that possibility. Even if vasectomy does lead to an increased risk of prostate cancer, it still has similar or lower overall risk than other forms of birth control, and is a good choice for a man who is absolutely sure he does not want to father any more children, as a vasectomy should be considered permanent. Attempting reversal is possible, but there is no guarantee of success. Dr. Roach regrets that he is unable to answer individual questions, but will incorporate them in the column whenever possible. Readers may email questions to ToYourGoodHealth@med. cornell.edu.  © 2020 North America Synd., Inc. All Rights Reserved

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O C TO B E R 25, 2020

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

‘The Devil Has a Name’ is a ‘master class in casting’ tough-talking Gigi, who can walk into a room filled with arrogant and condescending men and slash them to their knees before the meeting is over.

By Richard Roeper Signal Contributing Writer

‘The Devil Has a Name’



(out of four) Momentum Pictures presents a film directed by Edward James Olmos. Written by Rob McEveety. Rated R (for language, some sexual material). Running time: 97 minutes.

‘Honest Thief ’



riends, we have a strong candidate for the most batbleep crazy movie of 2020. “The Devil Has a Name” is a contaminated-water legal thriller in the tradition of “Erin Brockovich,” “A Civil Action” and “Dark Waters,” but whereas the heroes and villains in those fine films were relatively grounded and sane people, just about everyone in this story has a couple of wobbly screws. They could have gone ahead and called this “Erin Nutsovich.” Directed by the veteran actor Edward James Olmos and written by Robert McEveety (and what a crackling and often darkly funny script this is), “The Devil Has a Name” is a master class in casting, starting with David Strathairn as Fred Stern (because he’s stern!), a crusty old widower who has a farm in California’s Central Valley. Olmos plays Santiago, Fred’s farm manager of some 30 years and also Fred’s best friend, and we know they’re best buddies because not only do they constantly banter and bicker with each other, they actually take it to the next level and wrestle around Fred’s living room like teenage brothers. A humongous Houston-based oil company owns a nearby oil rig, and when evidence surfaces indicating longtime environmental pollution on Fred’s farm, the evil head of the company, known as The Boss (Alfred Molina), enlists the services of the ethically bankrupt PR/fixit man Alex Gardner (Haley Joel Osment) to lowball Fred and strike a quick deal. Nothing doing. Fred hires the crusading liberal lawyer Alex Gardner (Martin Sheen, who else?), who has the front grill of a Pinto mounted on his wall to mark his greatest victory, won against the makers of the infamous subcompact car. Meanwhile, Kate Bosworth’s Gigi Cutler, who also

PHOTOS COURTESY IMDB

works for the oil company, is swaggering about in cowboy boots and is constantly nipping from a flask and seems a bit unhinged as she tries to work both sides of the game. Oh, and then there’s Pablo Schreiber’s Ezekiel, an intimidating enforcer who has a thing for working in a little S&M when he’s working over his victims, male and female. Like just about everyone else in this movie, Ezekiel doesn’t seem quite right and is not to be trusted. “The Devil Has a Name” has a timeline that skips this way and that, and drops in some heavy-handed social and political commentary about immigration and our current president in between wild scenes, e.g., Osment’s PR guy engaging in a boozeand drug-fueled threesome with the co-anchors of a local morning TV chat show where he has been making regular appearances and giving out money from the big oil company to the hard-luck locals. Even when we get to the obligatory courtroom sequences pitting underdog Fred the almond farmer against the big bad oil company, there are moments when we’re skirting the border of parody. Not to fret. Strathairn and Olmos have a great, old-warriors chemistry, Sheen is practically playing himself and having a ball doing so, Osment lets his freak flag fly as the nuttiest public relations man in recent film history, Schreiber is a suitably hiss-worthy villain, and Bosworth owns every scene she’s in as the cigar-chomping, booze-swilling,

Briarcliff Entertainment presents a film directed by Mark Williams. Written by Mark Williams and Steve Allrich. Rated PG-13 (for strong violence, crude references and brief strong language). Running time: 99 minutes.

hen I heard Liam Neeson was playing a criminal mastermind known as “The In and Out Bandit” in the new thriller “Honest Thief,” I was hoping against hope he got that moniker because he celebrated every successful heist by sending a big sack of In-N-Out Burgers to the frustrated feds. But this gray and brooding and plausibility-defying actioner is set not in California but in and around Boston, and Neeson’s Tom Carter has been given that name by the FBI because when he hits a bank in the dead of night and cleans out the safe, he’s in and out, just like that! As opposed to what, the Lingering Bandit, who takes his sweet time and waits until he hears sirens before making a run for it? Let’s also make it clear, Tom Carter is nothing at all like the middle-agedbut-not-to-be-trifled-with characters Neeson has played in the “Taken” trilogy, “The Commuter,” “NonStop,” “Cold Pursuit,” “Unknown,” “The Grey,” “Run All Night” or “A Walk Among the Tombstones,” OK? This guy is completely different from all those other stoic and rugged individualists who find themselves thrust into the most extreme circumstances imaginable and will do anything to set things right. Nothing like them at all. Neeson’s Tom is a former Navy demolitions expert with a particular set of skills (sorry) who for the better part of a decade has been pulling

off a series of seamlessly executed bank robberies. But now he calls the FBI, identifies himself as the In and Out Bandit (a name he despises) and says, “I’ve robbed 12 banks in seven states … in eight years … I have $9 million.” He wants to turn over the cash — he hasn’t spent a dime of it, for ludicrous reasons explained much later on — and surrender in exchange for a lenient sentence. Why? Because Tom has fallen in love with Kate Walsh’s Annie, and he’d like to come clean, do his time, have a fresh start in life and not always be looking over his shoulder, waiting for the feds to swoop in. He wants to become the Sorry ‘Bout That Bandit! Tom meets with FBI agents Nivens (Jai Courtney) and Hall (Anthony Ramos) to turn himself in and hand over the cash. Big mistake, Tom. Huge. These guys are corrupt — Nivens in particular is a homicidal maniac — and next thing you know, things go horribly wrong, murder is afoot, Tom and Nivens are engaged in mortal combat and tumbling out of a hotel window and onto the street, just as Annie is arriving to meet Tom, and that’s how Annie finds out there’s a little more to Tom than he’s told her. Neeson and Walsh are lovely together; it’s nice and quite rare to see such a giddy, crazy-for-you romance between two characters who are over 50. And the reliable character actor Jeffrey Donovan is terrific as Agent Meyers, a good-guy fed who carries around a dog with him because that’s the only thing he got in a recent divorce settlement. (I’m thinking FBI agents probably don’t bring pups to work, but there you have it.) But this is one of those second-rate action movies where smart people keep having to do dumb things just to keep the plot rolling, and nearly every scene has us asking, “Why would you do THAT?” The In and Out Bandit should have anonymously donated his loot to charity and disappeared into the mist with Annie when he had the chance.  Copyright 2020 Chicago Sun-Times

O C TO B E R 25, 2020

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 1 1

Pumpkins and the resulting spice bars and bread

alloween isn’t complete without jack-o’lanterns, and jack-o’-lanterns can’t be made without pumpkins. Plenty of people are familiar with pumpkins thanks to their connection to Halloween and, of course, pumpkin pie, but few may know some of the more interesting aspects of this Halloween staple. • Indigenous to the western hemisphere, pumpkins have been grown in North America for 5,000 years. But while they might be indigenous to the west, pumpkins can be grown in the eastern hemisphere as well. According to contributors to the online pumpkin resource Pumpkin Nook, pumpkins are more popular in southern China than northern China. • History.com notes that pumpkin seeds do not

Perfectly pumpkin

have a long planting season. Ideally, seeds should be planted between the last week of May and the middle of June. That gives pumpkin lovers precious little time do their planting. Once seeds are planted, pumpkin lovers must wait somewhere between 90 and 120 days for the pumpkins to grow. That makes October a great and popular time to do some picking. • Pumpkin weighoffs have become popular events in many communities. At such events, growers of giant pumpkins bring their largest ones to be weighed. • Pumpkins support heart health. Perhaps because they’re most often associated with pumpkin pie and pumpkin-flavored beer, the health benefits of pumpkins might go unnoticed. But pumpkins are

FOOD

rich in antioxidants that can help prevent damage to the eye, and the potassium found in pumpkins can have a positive impact on blood pressure. Pumpkins also are a great source of beta-carotene, and some studies have linked diets rich in beta-carotene with a reduced risk of prostate cancer. • According to Fruits & Veggies — More Matters¨, a health initiative aiming to promote increased consumption of fruits and vegetables, pumpkins are fruits because they are products of the seed-bearing structures of flowering plants. Pumpkins are part of the gourd family, which means they’re closely related to fruits such as cucumbers, honeydew melons and cantaloupes. Now, turn that pumpkin meat into delicious Halloween treats. (MC) 

Pumpkin Loaf

ill your house with the aroma of fall with warm slices of this Pumpkin Loaf dolloped with butter.

Pumpkin Loaf Nonstick cooking spray 4 eggs 3 1/2 cups flour 2 teaspoons baking soda 2 teaspoons cinnamon 1 teaspoon nutmeg 1 teaspoon salt 2 sticks butter 2 cups sugar 1 can (15 ounces) pumpkin puree 1 cup chocolate chips 1 cup walnuts, chopped Heat oven to 350 F.

old winter weather calls for comfort food like these delicious and moist pumpkin bars. Start your favorite movie and warm up your chilly day with a cozy blanket, a mug of hot chocolate and a plate of some of these incredible Spiced Pumpkin Bars. Find more dessert recipes at culinary.net.

Spiced Pumpkin Bars

Pour batter into loaf and muffin pans. Bake 40-45 minutes, or until toothpick inserted into center comes out clean.

2 cups flour 2 tsp baking powder 2 tsp ground cinnamon 1 tsp baking soda 1/4 tsp salt 4 eggs 15 oz can of pumpkin 1 2/3 cups sugar 1 cup cooking oil 3/4 cup chopped pecans (optional) 8 ounce package cream cheese, softened 1/4 cup butter, softened 1 tsp vanilla 2 cups powdered sugar (sifted) Pecan halves (optional)

Cool 10 minutes before removing from pans. (Culinary.net) 

In a medium bowl stir together flour, baking powder, cinnamon, baking soda, and salt; set aside.

Prepare loaf and muffin pans with nonstick cooking spray. In bowl, whisk eggs. Set aside. In separate bowl, sift flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg and salt together. Set aside. In another bowl, cream butter and sugar. Add whisked eggs and mix until blended. Alternately add flour mixture and pumpkin puree to egg mixture, beating until blended. Fold in chocolate chips and walnuts.

Pumpkin Bars In a large mixing bowl beat together eggs, pumpkin, sugar, and oil on medium speed. Add the flour mixture; beat until well combined. If desired, stir in chopped pecans. Spread batter into an ungreased 15x10x1-inch baking pan. Bake in a 350° F oven for 25 to 30 minutes or until the center comes out clean. Cool completely in pan on a wire rack. In a medium mixing bowl beat together cream cheese, butter, and vanilla until fluffy. Gradually add sifted powdered sugar, beating until smooth. Frost pumpkin bars. If desired, top with pecan halves. Cut into squares. Store, covered, in refrigerator up to 3 days. Recipe adapted from Better Homes and Gardens. (Culinary.net). Find more recipes at culinary. net. 

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O C TO B E R 25, 2020

HOME

Must-haves for an amazing kitchen remodel

itchen remodels are among the most popular home renovation projects, whether they consist of swapping out cabinet hardware or doing major demolition. Due to the sheer amount of time families spend in the kitchen, not to mention the number of tasks performed in this space, it is easy to see why Remodeling magazine consistently ranks kitchen renovations as projects that will enable homeowners to recoup a high percentage of their investments. In the magazine’s 2018 “Cost vs. Value” report, midrange major kitchen remodels costing an average of $63,829 recouped 59% of that investment. When investing in a kitchen project, it is important to incorporate items that are coveted. Deep, double sinks Having a double sink enables you to soak dishes in one side and then wash on the other.

coffee on the deck much easier. Under-cabinet lighting Fixtures installed under cabinets provide both ambient lighting and task lighting. Such lighting makes it easier to see what you’re working on as well, as even well-placed overhead lighting can fail to illuminate dark corners and spots on the counters.

It also makes it easy to wash and prep produce for meals. Kitchen island and bar stools Even though many meals are enjoyed around the table, there’s something to be said for the convenience of a kitchen island and some well-placed bar stools for quick breakfasts or snacks. Smart kitchen storage Work with a contractor to include storage solu-

tions built into cabinetry and the pantry. Slide-out shelving, nooks for a paper towel roll and custom-designed areas to store stand mixers and other necessities can make kitchens more functional. Outdoor access If possible, design a kitchen so it is easy to access the backyard via sliding doors. This can make outdoor entertaining or even

Convenient warming drawer This appliance provides backup to the oven. It’s a slide-out drawer that can keep prepared foods out of the way and warm until they are ready to be served. This is particularly handy for holidays and other entertaining. Beverage station Designate one area of the kitchen to beverages, such as coffee and tea. Or make the area an informal bar. This can limit traffic in the kitchen to a single area. Kitchen remodels are exciting to envision, and several choices can make these high-traffic spaces even more coveted. (MC) 

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O C TO B E R 25, 2020

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 1 3

GARDENING

How to effectively freeze your garden vegetables

o say that COVID-19 transformed daily life would be an understatement. Few, if any, aspects of life were untouched once the virus hit. One aspect of daily life that changed considerably is the way people shop for food. As recommendations to remain home and out of crowded places spread, many people felt that shopping in bulk, or at the very least, meal-planning and buying necessities for a few weeks at a time, would reduce the number of trips they needed to make to supermarkets or small food stores. In addition, due to shortages on popular foods, many people have purchased items they did not necessarily need in anticipation that such foods may not be available in the coming weeks or months. Large packages of meat and poultry can be broken down and frozen easily. But what about the fresh produce that many people rely on for import-

ant nutrients? Fresh vegetables only last so long, so people need to learn how to safely freeze fresh vegetables to avoid throwing them out. To freeze vegetables properly so they retain their flavor and texture, it is important to freeze them within a few hours of picking them from a

garden or taking them home. Certain vegetables can be frozen in their raw state. The texture might change slightly upon thawing, but they will remain flavorful. Other vegetables may require blanching before freezing. Blanching requires scalding vegetables in boiling water or steam for a brief time.

Blanching helps stop the enzymes that cause vegetables to decay, a process that can occur even in frozen storage. Items that do well with blanching include spinach, kale, winter squash, and broccoli, according to HGTV.com. Another way to freeze produce is to remove the air that can compromise the food. You can do so by filling containers or bags and pushing out the extra air. Vacuum sealers can work to remove the air and help preserve items in the freezer longer. Remember to label and date containers so items can be used in the order in which they were packed. Most vegetables maintain high quality for eight to 12 months at 0 F or lower, according to the University of Georgia. Freezing fresh vegetables is an option when stocking up on essentials. Flavor and texture can be retained and items will not need to be discarded before they can be eaten. (MC) 

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O C TO B E R 25, 2020

SENIORLIVING

Commit to getting the care you need Research has shown that those who advocate for their own care feel more empowered and can live healthier lives. PHOTO COURTESY GETTY IMAGES

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lder adults in America are living longer lives and will outnumber people under the age of 18 by nearly 500,000 by 2034, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. However, living longer does not automatically mean living healthier or happier. In fact, nearly 61% of people in America aged 65 and older live with chronic conditions, according to the National Institutes of Health, and a report from the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering and Medicine found nearly 1 in 4 older adults are considered to be socially isolated. Research published in “Health Affairs” indicates that people who advocate for their own care feel more empowered. The age-friendly health systems approach can help older adults take control of their well-being and demand care that helps them maintain independence by making sure their doctors know their needs and preferences; also called “what matters.” Just as the name implies, age-friendly care prioritizes what matters most to each individual older adult and helps meet goals such as daily walks around the neighborhood or cooking favorite meals. To get started, consider these four essential elements of age-friendly care from The John A. Hartford Foundation to discuss with your doctor: What matters As people age, what

matters most to them might change. It is important to share concerns, goals, wishes, needs and experiences with your health care providers. What matters also includes end-of-life care goals and preferences. Medication Many older adults take multiple medications, which can cause side effects and, in turn, impact daily living. Honest conversations with doctors about medications, their interactions and side effects can ensure treatment plans are optimizing quality of life. Mentation Older adults are at higher risk for dementia, depression and delirium, and conversations with medical providers about changes in memory or mood and annual screenings for dementia and depression can lower the risk. Mobility Staying active can help older adults maintain health and independence. Talking to health care providers about mobility concerns can identify personalized tips to improve strength, flexibility and balance. Healthy aging is possible when the patient and care team are on the same page with the same plan in mind. For ideas on how to start these conversations, visit johnahartford.org/agefriendly. (Family Features) 

O C TO B E R 25, 2020

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 1 5

PETS

Symptoms that pets have allergies, what’s behind them

llergies can vary in severity and cause various symptoms. According to the Mayo Clinic, allergies occur when the immune system reacts to a foreign substance by producing antibodies. These antibodies identify a particular allergen as harmful, even when it isn’t. Allergies can cause reactions in the skin, breathing passages and digestive system. Thousands of people experience allergies to foods, pets and environmental factors. Pets also can be susceptible to allergies. Allergies can be found in cats and dogs, according to PetMD. They also may be present in other animals. People who notice their companion animals scratching, chewing or licking themselves more than normal may find their pets have allergies. Some pets may experience gastrointestinal issues as well. The pet care information site Pet Cube says common allergens for

People who notice their companion animals scratching, chewing or licking themselves more than normal may find their pets have allergies.

pets can include: • pollen from trees, grass and weeds • food ingredients • dust mites • prescription medications • fleas • flea/tick control products • cleaning products While their human friends may get runny noses or coughs from allergies, symptoms of allergies in cats and

dogs tend to take the form of skin irritation, otherwise known as allergic dermatitis. Pet parents should look for the presence of red and irritated skin, hair loss, hot spots, and rashes or hives, in addition to extensive itching or obsessive licking. Flea allergies are one of the most common sources of allergies for pets. The bite of just one or two fleas per week is enough to cause a reaction. A pet gnawing just at the base of the tail may be suffering from fleas, although

other areas may be affected, advises PetMD. Seasonal and environmental allergies or allergies to foods can result in face rubbing and licking, especially the paws. Skin or ear infections also may occur. Pets also may be allergic to one another. According to veterinarian Dr. Robert Trimble, co-founder of the San Francisco-based Fuzzy Pet Health, says he’s heard of dogs being allergic to cats and vice versa. The American Kennel Club urges pet parents to seek help if their pets seem to be itchy all the time. Allowing a pet to scratch or lick for extended periods of time may lead to skin infections with bacteria or yeast. While all allergies cannot be tested, elimination diets and other techniques may help pinpoint sources of allergies. It is essential to speak with a vet to determine how to relieve allergies to help pets feel more comfortable. (MC) 

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K I D S & FA M I LY

O C TO B E R 25, 2020

Donna’s Day: Creative Family Fun

Bee-friendly living By Donna Erickson Signal Contributing Writer

ife is always abuzz in the Holmlund household. Working parents and three active kids under 11 come and go from their welcoming Santa Cruz home near Monterey Bay. You could almost say that with all their work, school and youth activities, they’re as busy as the honeybees living on their rooftop deck. The kids recently invited me to climb the narrow stairs leading to that third-level breezy space where they often hang out to relax and eat supper. I soon discovered that they share it with over 50,000 hardworking honeybees who live in two basic kid-painted beehives tucked in the corner. Despite the numbers, it’s not crowded, and there is no need to shoo the bees away. They come and go, doing their pollinating thing, while the Holmlunds peacefully co-exist with buzzing friends. “Who knew the bees would become our new family pets,” says 42-year-old mom Alison. When they packed for

a fall trek to Lake Tahoe, 6-year-old Eva asked if she could take some of the bees with them. “I had to tell her that they have to stay home with the queen bee,” said Alison. Like any pet, they require care, so the kids pitched in to help by making sure the jars of sugar water were refilled while the bees were getting established in their new home. And when family friend and beekeeper James Young, who inspired and set up the project, comes by, he recruits a kid or two to don veiled bee gear and calm the bees by applying smoke to their hives while James checks in on the health of their hives and the honey production. “It has been a great experience,” says Alison. “Little bits of learning become part of our everyday, like being quiet and calm around the hives. We’ve also learned how every bee plays a role in their extraordinary community life.” Your family might not be into establishing beehives yet, but there are many ways you can learn about these fascinating insects and their impact on our ecosystem and the food we eat. Be bee spotters When out for a family walk, watch honeybees visit flowers. Be still and quiet as you observe. Plan a buzz-worthy garden Research pollinator-friendly plants and flowers you can grow where you live or in a community garden. Check out planting tips and guidelines at pollinator.org and in the book, “Pollinator Friendly Gardening: Gardening for Bees, Butterflies, and other Pollinators” by Rhonda Fleming Hayes (Voyageur Press, 2015). Be an advocate for bees and other pollinators. 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.”  © 2020 Donna Erickson Distributed by King Features Synd.

O C TO B E R 25, 2020

S U N D AYS I G N A L · 1 7

K I D S & FA M I LY

Steps to take if you’re worried about a learning slide

chool is so unpredictable this year, it's hard not to worry about the what ifs. What if my child falls behind due to distance learning? What if my kids have trouble getting back to in-person learning? It's an anxious time for many parents. In fact, a recent Understood/ YouGov survey of 2,000 parents of 5- to 17-year-olds, shows that 71% are worried that their children will face challenges this year. For parents of kids who are diagnosed with or show signs of learning and thinking differences, that number is 79%. And nearly half (48%) of all parents are worried about their child being left behind because of the “COVID slide.” The shutdowns last spring gave parents a window into their children's learning and behavior. And for some, it raised new questions — and concerns. Questions like: • Why is my child so daydreamy? • Is it normal for kids to have meltdowns this often? • Why is my child still struggling with reading? • Do other kids have this much trouble following directions?

school and at work.” Visit u.org/takenote to learn more and access Take N.O.T.E. in English or Spanish. You'll find a free digital resource with the tools to notice, observe and track patterns in your child's behavior. (BPT) 

The Take N.O.T.E. tool centers on a simple four-step process: 1. Notice if there's something going on with your child that's out of the ordinary. 2. Observe and keep track of patterns in your child's behavior. 3. Talk to your child, teachers, aides and caregivers about what you're observing. 4. Engage with trusted professionals, like pediatricians. “Not knowing what different behaviors or struggles mean or how to help can feel stressful and

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Kids develop at different rates, so it can be hard for families to interpret what they're seeing. Some of

overwhelming for parents and caregivers,” says Cunningham. “These four steps can help you learn more and move down a path to best help your child. Everyone who learns and thinks differently should feel supported at home, at

20 0 2

What are learning and thinking differences

4 steps to start finding answers

20 20

Nearly four in 10 (37%) parents surveyed by Understood have noticed new or different behaviors in their child during the pandemic. Trying to make sense of challenges or differences isn't always easy. But getting answers allows parents and professionals to get kids support at early as possible. “Every child is unique, so it's difficult for caregivers to know which behaviors are normal for their age and which might be flags that something else is going on,” says Bob Cunningham, executive director of learning development for social impact organization Understood. “Families are spending more time together and some may have started to notice things they didn't before. The good news is there are some easy steps they can take.”

these struggles can also be a sign of learning and thinking differences like dyslexia, ADHD and dyscalculia (a learning disability in math). At least 15 million children in the United States — one in five — learn or think differently. They may struggle with different skills, including reading, writing, math, focus and following directions. Sometimes those challenges are obvious, but other times the signs can be confusing. For example, difficulty with spelling can be a sign of a reading challenge. Not being able to tell time might be a problem with math. Because the signs of learning and thinking differences aren't always clear, Understood developed a free tool called Take N.O.T.E. in partnership with the American Academy of Pediatrics. It's designed to guide families to get answers about what they are seeing in their child.

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SOLUTIONS

PUZZLES

O C TO B E R 25, 2020

CROSSWORD TIME

O C TO B E R 25, 2020

Opinion

S U N D AY S I G N A L · 1 9

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

A COVID Business Solution Due to the way our elected officials have responded/reacted to COVID-19, many businesses are closed. So, how can they pay their rent, insurance and utilities if they have no income? The answer is fairly straightforward. I call it the “Business Cost Forgiveness Act.” If a business can show that it cannot earn income due to the measures taken by their state or local officials in response to COVID-19, they will be eligible for a universal cost waiver, issued by their state or local government, which will exempt them from having to pay any bills until the imposed conditions change. The federal government will rubber stamp its approval, and it’s done. Based on this waiver no landlord, utility or insurance company can legally throw them out, cut off their service, or cancel their coverage. Everything would go into a state of suspended animation. If that happened, things might change rather quickly, which might reveal that a few thousand lives really aren’t as important as the general economy. Arthur Saginian Santa Clarita

Air Quality Info Source? I am writing in hopes that you or one of your readers can help me, and perhaps others who find themselves with the problem I’ve been having. I’m writing about finding the correct air quality for our valley on a daily basis. I know The Signal publishes a daily air quality report. I checked it and three other sources with differing results. For example, today two sources reported moderate air quality, one said the air quality was good and one listed it as hazardous! I have a health condition that makes the correct information important. What can you suggest? Richard Myers Valencia Editor’s note: Our air quality reports are provided by Accuweather, a respected source for weather information. You can also check current air quality data at aqmd.gov. Submit a Letter to the Editor

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Reflecting on Why We Disagree By David Hegg

nly those playing with a closed mind and a closed history book have trouble understanding why Americans are sharply divided over moral issues. At the risk of offending some on both sides of the aisle, I will put forth a defense for why those of us who follow a biblical worldview are opposed to social issues such as same-sex marriage, abortion, and the continuing advancement of the dogma that gender is not binary. First, let’s talk about equality. After all, those championing the aforementioned issues contend that they are pursuing the foundational American belief that “all are created equal” and that all have the right to “life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.” But they have been selective in their quoting of the Declaration of Independence. The truth is that American society has, from its beginning, been solidly in the current of human history that believed that all people had those rights because those rights were “endowed by their Creator” and further, that those rights were “self-evident.” That is, they were the self-evident societal norms that arise from natural law. Nature itself teaches them. Given this, no government could be allowed to abridge those rights. Yet, it has also been true that those who break the law relinquish some of their equality. That is, they may relinquish some of their resources, time and even their freedom. Why? Because breaking the law is bad for society. Thus, those who break the law no should no longer enjoy the personal liberty that comes with being part of humanity. Second, those of us who follow the biblical worldview also believe that the basic morality of our worldview mirrors natural law. Further, when we see natural law being set aside in favor of personal desire and convenience, we consider it not only wrong but also harmful to society. So, we disagree, and voice our disagreement persistently. Let me explain with some examples. We all recognize that natural law says when a baby is born that the child is either male or female. Even today in a world that is topsy turvy on this issue, upon hearing that a child was born we naturally ask, “Was it a boy or girl?” That’s what aligns with what we all know of nature simply because gender has always been, and always will be, determined by genetic material, not human desire or political goals. So, when those who claim loudly to “follow the science” instead break the law of nature in their declarations, we disagree, and voice our disagreement persistently. The same is true of marriage. The biblical worldview

shouts that marriage is between one man and one woman. And only those who disregard the entirety of human history have the audacity to say human history was always on the wrong side of the marriage issue. So, when the courts break with the precedent of history and declare natural law to have been in error, we assert that the court has broken natural law and we disagree, and do so persistently. Lastly, since the beginning of human history the intentional taking of a life in the normal course of human relationships has been deemed to be against natural law. Today, our culture has decided this belief no longer pertains to a situation where a conceived human child is not wanted. Faced with the absurdity that a society can long endure with such a cavalier attitude toward life, we disagree, and protest, and will continue doing so persistently. But all this is already known. The sides are drawn between those who believe equality has no obligation to natural law, and those who believe the breaking of natural law should not be allowed. So, why am I writing this? Simply for this reason: While there has always been disagreement in societies where such discussion is freely allowed, we have now entered a time in America where disagreement is considered dangerous. Let me say that again: For the first time in my life, my persistent disagreement with those championing same-sex marriage, abortion, and non-binary gender options on the basis of their total disregard for natural law, is being labeled as hate speech, and even worse, determined to be exceedingly dangerous and worthy of annihilation. Recently, as Amy Comey Barrett was being examined for a seat on the Supreme Court, many opponents of her worldview suggested she was a dangerous threat to our nation. Dangerous threat? For believing in marriage, gender, and life as defined for thousands of years by natural law? This is why we disagree. Those of us who believe in natural law consider that those who are throwing it aside in favor of personal desires, political goals and convenience are a threat to the moral stability of our nation. We are up for dialogue, to make our case in the marketplace of ideas. Sadly, our opponents don’t want to talk. They only want to rant and ridicule, slander and insinuate, and mostly, annihilate those who dare oppose them. But we’re here to stay, and we will continue to disagree, hopefully agreeably, and do so persistently in hopes that our opponents will abandon the paths that lead to destruction and join us on the path of life. Local resident David Hegg is senior pastor of Grace Baptist Church. “Ethically Speaking” appears Sundays. 

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