Sunday Signal 030924

Celebrate California’s Wine

By Michele Buttelman Signal Staff Writer

California wine is often assumed to be less prestigious than its European counterparts, but Californians have been making wine for more than 250 years.

The years of winemaking experience and California’s unique geography have made the state’s many wine regions destination tourist spots and earned it a reputation for quality wine.

According to a 2022 Wine Institute report, California’s wine industry contributes $170.5 billion annually to the economy of the United States and employs 1.1 million workers. California’s retail wine sales topped $43.6 billion in the U.S. in 2022, with three out of every five bottles sold originating in the state.

California produces 80% of all the wine made in America and ranks fourth worldwide in wine production behind France, Italy and Spain.

Originally planted by Franciscan missionaries for sacramental wine production in the 18th century, “Mission” grapes are believed to be the first cultivated variety grown in the U.S.

The California State Viticultural Commission was established in 1860 to promote variety in vine importation.

The great diversity of climates and soil across California contributes to its great wines, supporting the growth of everything from Chardonnay and Pinot Noir to Cabernet Sauvignon and Zinfandel.

Many of the most important wine regions in Cal-

ifornia, from Napa and Sonoma to Santa Barbara and Paso Robles, benefit from the natural cooling of coastal winds, fog and moisture.

California Wine Celebrations

Join wine enthusiasts at these special California wine events this spring.

Vine 2 Wine

Saturday, March 16

Sand Canyon Country Club, 27734 Sand Canyon Rd., Santa Clarita 91387

Info www.circleofhopeinc.org/vine2wine

Indulge your senses and support a great cause at Vine 2 Wine, Circle of Hope’s annual wine tasting fundraiser. The event promises an evening of unparalleled elegance, where the finest wines will take center stage. Sip and savor an array of exquisite vintages, expertly curated to delight your palate, all while contributing to a meaningful cause.

The tickets range from $175 for VIP entrance to $150 for general entrance. All tickets include gourmet cuisine, live music, unlimited wine and beer tasting and a live and silent auction.

Lodi Wine Festival

Saturday, April 6

Ole Mettler Grape Pavilion at the Lodi Grape Festival Grounds, 413 E. Lockeford St., Lodi 95240

Info www.grapefestival.com/p/events/ lodiwinefestival

The Lodi Wine Festival features wine tasting from up to 40 wineries pouring more than 200 varietals. This presents a unique opportunity to ex-

plore what the Lodi wine region has to offer all in one place.

The festival features three different admissions. VIP tasting is from 1-5 p.m. and costs $70 in advance and $80 at the door. A limited number of tickets will be sold. This tasting gives you an additional hour before the Grand tasting and features access to the VIP lounge with special wine tasting and food.

The Grand tasting is from 2-5 p.m. and costs $50 in advance and $60 at the door.

Designated Drivers can accompany a VIP ticketholder for $30 and a Grand tasting ticketholder for $20.

Don’t miss the Ultimate Wine Collection, which includes wine donations by participating wineries and the Lodi Grape Festival Board of Directors. Tickets are $20 at the festival and proceeds benefit the Lodi Grape Festival Bucks for Books Scholarship Fund.

The Wine Affair

April 14

Main Street, Old Town Newhall 91321

Info www.sigscv.org/the-wine-affair

Wine, Beer and Cheer! Indulge in a day of fine wine, beer and community spirit at the 15th annual “Wine Affair — Viva Las Vegas” hosted by Soroptimist International of Greater Santa Clarita Valley. The event is dedicated to raising awareness and funds for the Fight Against Human Trafficking. VIP tickets are $145 and include early admission at noon. During that time you will have access to premium food and wine, entertainment and an

expedited check in. You also will have access to the VIP area for the entire day. Be sure to start bidding on the Silent Auction and Ambassadors ahead of time.

General Admission is $100 with check in at 1 p.m. There will be multiple check-in locations.

California Wine Festival Dana Point

Saturday, April 20 - Sunday, April 21

Dana Point 92629

Info www.californiawinefestival.com/dana-point

The quintessential California wine tasting experience with sun, sea, food, wine and music at this Camelot-like, white-topped tent village next to the sparkling Pacific Ocean. Wine lovers find hundreds of fine wines, regional craft brews and a dizzying variety of foods to sample. There will be artisanal cheeses, breads, olive oil, as well as shellfish, salads, chocolates, cakes and more.

The Sunset Rare & Reserve Tasting will be held on Saturday at the Laguna Cliffs Marriott Resort & Spa. This elegant VIP event is for true fine wine lovers. There are a limited number of tickets due to the rarity of the wines. It starts with a champagne reception followed by the wine tasting.

A 2-day VIP pass is $205 and includes the Sunset Rate tasting on Saturday and a VIP pass to the Sunday Beachside Wine Festival at Sea Terrance Park. There is also a VIP pass for $105 that just includes the Sunset Rate Tasting.

Sunday-only Beachside Festival tickets are $125 (VIP), $95 (early entrance) and $75 (general admission). All tickets are pre-sale.

Sixth Annual Garagiste Wine Festival: Northern Exposure

Saturday April 27, 1- 5 p.m.

Sonoma Veterans’ Memorial Hall, 126 1st St. W,

Sonoma 95476

Info www.garagistefestival.com

The Sixth Annual Garagiste Festival: Northern Exposure offers rare access to the region’s best small, hard-to-find winemakers. At this intimate event, you will discover and taste cutting edge wines from more than 40 high-quality, micro-production, commercial wineries from Napa, Sonoma, Mendocino, Santa Cruz and more.

This is truly a singular chance to discover and meet the next great winemakers and get the opportunity to taste their unique wines. You can’t duplicate this tasting experience at any other wine event.

Tickets are $100 for the Rare and Reserve Early Access and $79 for the Grand Tasting from 2-5 p.m. There is a group (6 or more) discount of $10 for the Grand Tasting. And a $10 Designated Driver ticket for either tasting event. 

The Wine Affair

The Wine Affair in Old Town Newhall celebrates wine, beer and community spirit while benefitting a great cause. SIGNAL FILE PHOTOS

Know the Health Consequences of Not Enough Sleep

By Terry Kanakri Signal Contributing Writer

With many families leading busy lives balancing job duties with childcare and other household responsibilities, getting enough sleep on a daily basis might not be an easy task.

If you think sacrificing a good night’s sleep is nothing to worry about, however, think again!

According to Kaiser Permanente Sleep Medicine Physician Dr. Kendra Becker, a prolonged lack of sleep or chronic insomnia can cause great harm to your health.

“I cannot stress enough how important it is for your body to get enough sleep, as it is an essential part of achieving a good quality-of-life and being able to avoid major health issues,” she said. “If you’ve been sleep-deprived for a long time-period, it’s time to prioritize your sleep so that you can get enough shut eye.”

According to Dr. Becker, it’s recommended that a person get 7-8 hours of sleep per night. However, sleep disorders can make it difficult to get a healthy amount of rest.

If you’re struggling to get enough sleep, you’re not alone, as not getting enough is a common problem, according to the American Heart Association (AHA). The AHA notes about 1 in 3 adults reports not getting adequate rest on a regular basis. It’s also estimated that about 50-70 million Americans have chronic or ongoing sleep disorders.

Health experts are often concerned about research that shows prolonged lack of adequate sleep can lead to cardiovascular disease.

How Sleep Affects Your Heart

According to Sleep Foundation, sleep provides time for the body to restore and recharge, playing a key role in nearly all aspects of physical health. For the cardiovascular system, insufficient or frag-

mented sleep can contribute to problems with blood pressure and heighten the risk of heart disease, heart attacks, diabetes, and stroke, the Sleep Foundation notes.

According to Dr. Becker and the AHA, a growing body of research highlights how sleep disorders and poor sleep can hurt your heart health:

• Poor or fragmented sleep from diagnosis such as sleep apnea, can contribute to major cardiovascular disease risk factors including obesity, high blood pressure and diabetes.

• Insufficient or irregular sleep can negatively influence diet, stress and other lifestyle factors that can raise the risk of cardiovascular disease. Staying up late or getting insufficient sleep increases desirability for food items that carries the greatest potential for weight-gain.

• Excessive daytime sleepiness, which is a symptom of many sleep disorders, including hyper-

somnia, can lead to a greater risk of cardiovascular disease.

• Sleep deprivation and sleep disorders have also been linked to increased inflammation in your body, which can also elevate your risk of cardiovascular issues.

• Poor sleep and sleep disorders can cause depression and other mental health issues, which can hurt your heart health.

“If you have an undiagnosed sleep disorder, you should not hesitate to talk to your doctor about a plan to mitigate your risk of cardiovascular disease,” Dr. Becker said. “If you suspect you have a sleep disorder but haven’t been diagnosed with one, you should consult with your doctor to explore a possible diagnosis.”

Editor’s Note Don’t forget to turn your clock forward one hour today.

(Yes, we lost an hour of sleep today.) 

Fatigue Can Be a Safety Hazard in the Workplace

People are working harder and longer hours than ever before. A 2019 survey from Bankrate found that just 52% of Americans were planning to take a summer vacation that year, and more than a quarter were not planning any summer travel. Though affordability is a driving factor behind staying put, many workers admittedly fear missed opportunities or dread falling behind on emails and other assignments, so they skip or shorten vacations as a result.

However, failure to take breaks and consistently pushing oneself can contribute to work fatigue, which can be dangerous.

The employment resource Open Source Workplace says fatigue occurs when a person feels exhausted, weary or sleepy. It can result from prolonged physical or mental work, lengthy periods of anxiety or stress and/or insufficient sleep.

The National Safety Council says fatigue at work or on the road can be deadly. Millions of workers get little sleep on a regular basis or do not

make enough time to recharge their batteries.

The NSC says more than 43% of workers are sleep deprived. Fatigue can add up and lead to performance and safety issues. Consider these statistics from the NSC.

• A person is three times more likely to be in a car crash if he or she is fatigued.

• Losing even two hours of sleep is equivalent to having three beers and being intoxicated.

• Fatigued workers cost employers

between $1,200 and $3,100 per employee annually in productivity lost.

• Chronic sleep deprivation causes depression, cardiovascular disease, obesity, and other illnesses.

Fatigue can increase risk-taking behaviors and reduce physical and mental functioning. People who are not on top of their games may make mistakes that can lead to accidents.

Fatigue is a hazard that many workers may not recognize as a problem. But it has a significant impact on safety and performance. (MC) 

Celebrate the Santa Clarita Way

By Michele E. Buttelman Signal Staff Writer

It’s that time of year again when everyone is Irish. St. Patrick’s Day 2024 will fall on Sunday, March 17 and the Santa Clarita Valley will be awash in all things Irish with Irish bands, shamrocks, corned beef and cabbage and gallons of green beer awaiting those celebrating the “wearing ‘o the green.”

Pocock Brewing

24907 Avenue Tibbitts, Ste B, Santa Clarita 91355

Info www.pocockbrewing.com

Saturday, March 16 noon-10 p.m.

Sunday, March 17 noon-9 p.m.

Join Pocock Brewing for its St. Patrick’s Weekend Festival on Saturday, March 16 from noon-10 p.m. and on Sunday., March 17 from noon-9 p.m.

Free admission. Live music all weekend long with The Darryls, The Dirty Mickeys and Pogues Tribute Band on Saturday; and with The Off Knights, The Decadent Decades and The Fenians on Sunday.

There is an expanded beer garden in The Barrel Room and expanded outdoor seating. There will be an exclusive Irish menu and new beer release.

Maginn’s Irish Pub

24480 Main St. Suite 140, Newhall 91321

Info www.maginnspub.com

There’s no hotter spot to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day weekend than at Maginn’s Irish Pub, a genuine Irish-American Pub in the heart of Old Town Newhall.

Maginn’s Pub will kick off St. Patrick’s celebrations on Saturday, March 16 when it opens its beer garden and patio bar. Corned beef and cabbage will be on the menu, as well as Irish Soda bread and fish and chips from noon to 10 p.m. The bar will remain open until 1 a.m.

On Sunday, March 17 reservations will be available in 2-hour time blocks for indoor seating at 2 p.m., 4 p.m., 6 p.m. and 8 p.m.

The beer garden tent will be open from 2 p.m. to 10 p.m. Food and drink tickets will be sold for the outdoor tent guests.

Live music will be offered from noon to 9 p.m.

For St. Patrick’s Day reservations email reservations@maginnspub.com with your desired time slot. You will receive an email confirmation. Do not call or message.

Egg Plantation

24415 Walnut St., Newhall 91321

Info www.eggplantation.com

Egg Plantation’s 16th Annual St Paddy’s party

will be held on Sunday from 4-7:30 p.m.

Irish Dreams Band will perform from 5- 8:30 p.m. Irish Dreams, founded in 2008, is a quartet that entertains with traditional and contemporary Irish music.

The Irish Dreams Band of Alyse Korn (piano/vocals), Julissa Bozman (fiddle/ vocals), Scott Roewe (whistles/bass/flute/ vocals) and Brad Dutz (Bodhran/Bones) will play Irish favorites.

Beyond the live Irish music, there will be, of course, Irish food, drinks and Irish dancers. Families welcome. No cover.

Smokehouse on Main

24255 Main St., Newhall 91321 Info smokehouseonmain.com

will play from 5-7:30 p.m.

The Smokehouse on Main in Old Town Newhall is making a weekend of this year’s St. Patrick’s celebration.

On Friday, March 15 from 9 p.m. to midnight the band Outliers will help kick off the St. Patrick’s Day festivities. Celebrate with drink specials, shot specials and more.

On Sunday, March 17 from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. don’t miss the corned beef and cabbage along with your favorite band, The Off Knights, playing early enough — from 7:30-10:30 p.m. — to enjoy the holiday and still make it to work on Monday

Come out for dinner and celebrate with drink specials, shot specials, green beer and great entertainment. This band plays everything from Motown, R&B, Disco and Funk.

St. Patrick’s Day at Le Chene French Cuisine

12625 Sierra Highway, Agua Dulce 91390

Info lechene.com

A French restaurant might not be your first thought for a St. Patrick’s Day meal but on Sunday from 5-9 p.m., Le Chene French Cuisine will offer a menu featuring Corned Beef and Cabbage priced at $35 in the dining room (with soup or salad) or $28 in the bar (without soup or salad.

A traditional Irish Lamb Stew with soup or salad at $35 will be offered in the dining room. And, Le Chene will offer its regular dinner menu.

To celebrate St. Patrick’s Day Le Chene will feature a genuine Irish bagpiper to entertain the Leprechauns. Reservations recommended.

St. Patty’s Swing Dance Party

American Legion Post 507 Newhall, 24507 Spruce St., Newhall 91321

Info bit.ly/3P7ULhd

Doors will open at 4 p.m. The Rayford Bros band, featuring Rockabilly and greasy rock ‘n roll,

A former 1940s movie house, the current American Legion Post 507 is home to the Santa Clarita Valley’s newest hot spot for live music and dancing.

Ken & Joe’s St. Patrick’s Day Puppy Adoption Event

Ken and Joe’s Powersports

Dealership, 21618 Golden Triangle Rd., Santa Clarita 91350

Info www.kenandjoes.com

Before you start celebrating St. Patrick’s Day with too much gusto think about adding a furry friend to your family this St. Patrick’s Day weekend at Ken & Joe’s St. Patrick’s Day Puppy Adoption event on Saturday, March 16.

Ken and Joe’s Powersports Dealership will host a special Pet Adoption Event taking place on Saturday, March 16 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

This event aims to unite adorable puppies with loving families while offering a day of fun-filled activities for all attendees.

Partnering with Sunny Day Acres, a trusted non-profit animal rescue, training, and boarding facility in Agua Dulce, Ken and Joe’s Powersports will host a variety of puppies available for adoption. From playful pups to loyal companions, there will be a furry friend for everyone seeking to expand their family.

In the spirit of St. Patrick’s Day, attendees can indulge in traditional Irish food throughout the event, generously provided by Law Tigers Los Angeles, who also sponsor this heartwarming initiative.

Additionally, SCV Pet Supply has donated Puppy Supplies filled with essential goodies for Silent Auction valued at $150 containing multiple products like toys, chewies, food and a $50.99 gift card to the store, with 100% of the Silent Auction proceeds being donated to Sunny Day Acres. 

FROM THE CITY MANAGER

SENSES Block Parties Return to Old Town Newhall

By Ken Striplin Santa Clarita City Manager

If you’re looking for local delicious food and drinks, live music and engaging activities that stimulate all your senses, then look no further. SENSES Block Parties makes its highly-anticipated return to Main Street in Old Town Newhall, with a line-up of exciting themes that are sure to keep you coming back each month for a new experience.

Don’t miss next week’s kick-off to the SENSES season with Neon Nights, as Main Street is transformed into a bright and vibrant party. Lighting up the block on Thursday, March 21, join us for a multitude of glowing activities you don’t want to miss. You can test your putting skills on the neon mini golf course, battle it out in a Nerf war complete with glowing darts or check out the out-ofthis-world virtual reality experience. Remember to check out the live band and dance the night away under the neon lights.

Come April, it is all about the Santa Clarita Cowboy Festival. On April 18, get ready for the Saddle Up SENSES. This is the official kick-off to the

Cowboy Festival weekend so dust off those boots and prepare to line dance to some of your favorite country songs, see how long you can ride the mechanical bull for and try your hand at many other wild west activities that will be available for all ages. Next, tumble down the rabbit hole with a trip to the Alice in Wonderland Block Party on May 16, where you’ll find yourself immersed in a strange and mysterious world. Thursday, June 20, brings the Summer Solstice celebrating the longest day of the year, and the Olympic-style SENSES Games following on July 18. August 15 will showcase past themes with The Big 100, marking 13 years and the 100th SENSES Block Party. Set sail on September 19 for a Pirates adventure, which wouldn’t be complete without a proper treasure hunt. Wrap up the event series with Pumpkin Palooza on October 17, welcoming the fall season with everything pumpkin.

The activities aren’t the only thing themed at SENSES. Make sure to stop by the on-street bar to sip on specialty cocktails that tie into that night’s theme. Looking for a bite to eat? Check out the many food trucks and don’t forget about your favorite local restaurants lining Main Street

Each and every year our SENSES Block Party event series continues to deliver with new themes

to explore. Whether you’re looking to dance the night away to live music, catch up with friends over food and drinks or battle it out over some exciting activities, there is something for everyone to enjoy. The City of Santa Clarita SENSES Block Parties take place the third Thursday of the month, starting this month through October, from 7:00 until 10:00 p.m. To learn more about SENSES, all the themes and activities, please visit OldTownNewhall.com.

I look forward to seeing the community come together once more for SENSES.

Ken Striplin is the City Manager for the City of Santa Clarita and can be reached at kstriplin@ santaclarita.gov. 

Celebrate St. Pat's with Traditional Irish Dishes

If St. Patrick's Day inspires feelings of hearth and home rather than leprechauns and green beer, you can celebrate tradition with warm, filling meals that harken back to Irish heritage. Soups and stews are certain to conjure up some nostalgia while soft, delicious cake is a perfect way to honor tradition regardless of your ancestry.

This Irish Sláinte Stew offers a warm welcome to guests with your own way of toasting to the holiday — Sláinte is "cheers" in Gaelic. This hearty meal is perfect for a crowd with traditional stew meat slow-cooked in a Dutch oven with beef broth, spices, carrots, potatoes, herbs and an Irish draught beer. Serve alongside crusty bread that's ideal for soaking up each delicious drop.

Share a sweet way to complete the meal in style with Irish Apple Cake, a classic dessert to top off a filling celebration. This version is easy enough to prepare with a handful of everyday ingredients for the cake, a crumbly topping and homemade custard for the finishing touch.

If you're looking for additional ways to honor tradition this St. Patrick's Day, consider a few other cozy Irish dishes:

• Boxty (potato pancakes, similar to latkes)

• Boiled cabbage

• Irish soda bread

• Shepherd's pie

• Corned beef and cabbage

• Potato soup

• Irish coffee

• Colcannon (mashed potatoes and greens)

• Coddle (typically including pork sausage, potatoes and onions)

• Seafood chowder

To find more ways to celebrate St. Patrick's Day, visit Culinary.net. (Family Features)

Irish Sláinte Stew

Oil, for drizzling

1 pound stew meat

1-2 pinches salt, plus additional to taste, divided 1-2 pinches pepper

3 tablespoons flour

48 ounces beef broth

1 cup carrots, diced

1 cup celery, diced 3 cups potatoes, diced

1/2 onion, diced

2 tablespoons garlic pepper

1 tablespoon dried thyme

1/2 tablespoon dried rosemary

1/4 teaspoon cloves

1/4 teaspoon nutmeg

1/2

3

1/4 teaspoon ginger

1 stick butter, cubed

1 tablespoon dried chives

1 bottle Irish draught beer of choice crusty bread, for serving

In Dutch oven over medium heat, drizzle oil and brown stew meat with salt and pepper. Sprinkle flour over meat.

Add beef broth, carrots, celery, potatoes, onion, garlic pepper, thyme, rosemary and chives. Add Irish draught beer.

Bring to boil, stirring, 5 minutes. Simmer 2 hours, stirring occasionally.

Serve with crusty bread. 

3/4 cup sugar

4 apples of choice, peeled and cubed

2 eggs

1 cup half-and-half

Topping:

1/2 stick butter

3/4 cup flour

1 cup brown sugar

Custard

6 large egg yolks

6 tablespoons sugar

1 1/2 cups half-and-half

2 teaspoons vanilla

Preheat oven to 375 F. Grease and flour 9-inch round springform pan.

To make cake: In large bowl, sift flour with cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg and ginger. Using fork, cut butter until mixture resembles crumbs. Add sugar and apples; mix well. Stir in eggs and

half-and-half until mixture reaches thick, dough-like batter. Pour batter into prepared pan.

To make topping: In bowl, mix butter, flour and sugar to create crumbled mixture. Sprinkle on top of batter in pan. Bake 1 hour. Check with toothpick to make sure middle is completely done. If not, bake 5-10 minutes. Let cool on rack.

To make custard: Whisk egg yolks and sugar. In saucepan, bring halfand-half to boil. Add one spoonful half-and-half at a time to egg mixture, whisking while adding. Once whisked together, return to saucepan and stir over medium heat until thickened, about 4 minutes. Remove from heat and whisk in vanilla. Serve custard over cake. 

Irish Apple Cake Cake

cups self-rising flour

tablespoon cinnamon

‘Impressive’ and at times a ‘Gloriously Beautiful Piece of Work’

By Richard Roeper Signal Contributing Writer

‘Dune: Part Two’

 (out of four)

Warner Bros. presents a film directed by Denis Villeneuve and written by Villeneuve and Jon Spaihts, based on the novel by Frank Herbert. Rated PG-13. In theaters.

Ea t r e s • S a n t a C l a r i t a S i g n a l

5 . 9 ”

d a t e :

d e l i v e r y d a t e :

ven as we marvel at the stunning and immersive and Oscar-level cinematography, editing, score, visual effects, production design and sound in Denis Villeneuve’s “Dune: Part Two,” we’re reminded at every turn that this is an absolutely bat-bleepcrazy story with some fantastic but also loopy and at times almost ridiculous plot elements and characters, to wit:

Sunday-Thursday, March 10-14, 2024

• On the planet Arrakis, giant sand worms 10x larger and faster than a Metra train are attracted by rhythmic sound and will suddenly surface from

beneath the desert and swallow up legions of humans and the machines they’re operating. However, a select few members of the Freman people have mastered the art of mounting and riding these sand worms, a la Khaleesi with her dragons in “Game of Thrones.”

• Rebecca Ferguson’s Lady Jessica is

7:30; Mon to Thu: 1:30 4:30 7:30

After three death- defy ng adventures defeating wor d- class vil a ns w th his unmatched courage and mad mar t a ar ts ski ls Po, the Dragon Warrior, is ca led upon by dest ny to g ve t a rest already More spec fical y he s tapped to become the Sp ritual Leader of the Val ey of Peace d u n e: PA r t t wo C Sun: 10:00 1:00 3:50 7:00; Mon to Thu: 1:00 3:50 7:00

“Dune Par t Two” wi l explore the mythic journey of Pau Atreides as he un tes with Chan and the Fremen while on a warpath of revenge aga nst the conspirators who destroyed his family o r d i n A ry A n g e l s B 1:10 4:00 7:00

Based on a true stor y, With h s youngest daughter wa ting for a l ver transplant Sharon sets her m nd to he p ng the fami y and wil move mountains to do it What unfolds is the inspiring ta e of faith ever yday m racles and ordinar y ange s

2024 o s c A r n o m i n At e d s h o r t F i l m s - A n i m At i o n Sun: 10:30 AM

For the 19th consecutive year Shor tsTV and Magnolia P c tures present the Oscar-Nom nated Shor t Films, opening on Feb 16th 2024 o s c A r n o m i n At e d s h o r t F i l m s - d o c u m e n tA ry Sun: 10:10 AM

For the 19th consecutive year Shor tsTV and Magnolia P c tures present the Oscar-Nom nated Shor t Films, opening on Feb 16th

2024 o s c A r n o m i n At e d s h o r t F i l m s - l i v e - Ac t i o n Sun: 10:20 AM

For the 19th consecutive year Shor tsTV and Magnolia P c tures present the Oscar-Nom nated Shor t Films, opening on Feb 16th b o b m A r l e y:

pregnant with a girl, and the fetus is able to communicate telepathically with her mother and with her big brother, the hero Paul Atreides (Timothee Chalamet). At one point, we even catch a glimpse of the unborn child when she’s in her 20s, and she looks just like an A-list star!

• The evil and ruthless villain Baron Harkonnen (the great Stellan Skarsgard), who looks like a cross between Jabba the Hut and Brando in “Apocalypse Now,” has the ability to slowly levitate and float, as if he’s an entrant in the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta.

• An elixir called “The Water of Life” that is the color of one of those vibrant blue sports drinks is typically fatal to males — but if the right female downs the potion, it becomes an awareness spectrum narcotic that gives one prescient powers. So there.

Add to that a rocky romance with more arbitrary ups and downs than a story arc on “General Hospital”; some heavy-handed messaging about how blind faith in a messiah who might or might not be real can get you killed; and a complicated plot that has consumed two movies with the ease of a sandworm and leaves things open for a third, and there are times when “Dune: Part Two” is almost overwhelmingly dense. (Your appreciation level will also vary if you’re familiar with Frank Herbert’s novel and you dug it; full disclosure, I was not the biggest fan.)

Still, thanks to Villeneuve’s masterful direction, the aforementioned brilliant technical elements and a star-studded cast of actors who pour themselves into the material — you can practically see them shaking the sand out of their boots after a long day’s filming — “Dune: Part Two” makes for a wondrous viewing experience. To invoke the cliche because it’s apt, if at all possible you should see it on the largest screen in one of those Dolby theaters with “seat transducers” that vibrate in sync with the action on the screen.

“Dune: Part Two” picks up shortly after the events of the first film and introduces two more key characters to an already crowded field: Princess Irulan (Florence Pugh) and

her father, the Emperor Shaddam IV (a disappointingly muted Christopher Walken), who are concerned that Paul Atreides may still be alive after they conspired with the psychic witches known as the Bene Gesserit and the Harkonnens to destroy the House of Atreides. Meanwhile, on the desert planet Arrakis, the Skywalker-esque Paul has struck up a friendship that could blossom into romance with the brave and plucky and quick-witted Freman warrior Chani (Zendaya) and has demonstrated such skill and acumen that Stilgar (Javier Bardem), the leader of a Freman tribe, has come to believe Paul is the prophecy fulfilled — a messiah who can lead the Freman to prosperity and peace. (Others strongly believe such a claim is heresy. It’s all very New Testament-y.)

It’s unclear if Paul truly is the Chosen One, but he has continued to master the special powers and skills he was just learning from his mother in the first “Dune,” and he’s also leaning into his role as a fierce warrior who can command an army and is willing to take on the bloodthirsty and power-hungry Baron Harkonnen and the baron’s perhaps even more terrifying and destructive nephew, Feyd-Rautha Harkonnen, who is played by a bald-headed Austin Butler, and congratulations to the greatly talented Austin for finally shedding that Elvis accent, good on you! (A “Gladiator”-esque arena battle pitting Feyd-Rautha against multiple opponents is an action highlight of the film.)

With so many characters to juggle, some of them, e.g., Pugh’s Princess Irulan, are thinly drawn and get scarce screen time. On the plus side, Bardem as Stilgar and Josh Brolin as Paul’s former mentor, the swashbuckling Gurney Halleck, are scene-stealing forces every time they pop up. Chalamet and Zendaya have a lovely chemistry in their quiet moments together; they would make for a power rom-com couple for sure. Even when “Dune: Part Two” gets a bit lost in the weeds, or should we say sands, of the plot, it’s an impressive and at times gloriously beautiful piece of work. 

Copyright 2024 Chicago Sun-Times

SENIOR LIVING

How Nutritional Needs Change with Age

Healthy eating is important at any age and can set the course for a life of vitality and wellness.

Sufficient nutrition can help prevent chronic illnesses and make sure that growing bodies develop properly. As one ages, various changes take place in the body, making healthy eating even more essential.

According to Healthline, nutritional deficiencies can effect aging individuals, which can decrease quality of life and lead to poor health outcomes. Individuals should pay attention to their vitamin and mineral intake at various ages so they do not miss out on important nutrients. As a person ages, here are some approaches to consider.

Consume fewer calories According to Connie Bales, PhD, RD, associate director of the Geriatric Research, Education and Clinical Center at Durham VA Medical Center, people need fewer calories every decade.

That’s because individuals are moving around less and have less muscle. This causes a decline in metabolic rate.

Include more nutrient-dense foods

Even though caloric needs go down with age, it’s important to pack as much nutrition into the calories a person does consume. That means finding nutrient-rich foods like whole grains, fruits, nuts, beans, vegetables, fish, and lean cuts of meat.

Consume more lean protein Muscle loss and loss of strength can develop as a person ages. Healthline says the average adult loses 3 to 8% of their muscle mass each decade after age 30. Eating more protein could help aging bodies maintain muscle.

Eat fortified cereals and grains The ability to absorb vitamin B12 can decrease as one gets older and with the use of certain medicines. Many health professionals recommend patients get more vitamin B12 by consuming foods enriched with this vitamin. Vitamin supplements may be needed in addition to food.

Drink more fluids Health.com says sensation of thirst declines with age. Drinking water and other fluids becomes a priority to stay hydrated. It also helps with digestion.

Prioritize bone health Osteoporosis is a concern for older adults, particularly women who have reached menopause. Osteoporosis occurs when bones become brittle and can break from only the slightest bump or fall, says the Mayo Clinic. Vitamin D and calcium help strengthen bones, and older adults may need more of these nutrients.

Individuals should speak with their health care providers and nutritionists for further insight into their changing nutritional needs. Such professionals can help customize diets to address specific health concerns.

QIs it true that next season’s mystery on “Only Murders in the Building” will be set in Los Angeles instead of New York? I love the old apartment building they live in on the show. It won’t be the same if it’s in California.

— D.D.

AI agree, but apparently only part of the season will be filmed in LA. According to TVLine, Craig Erwich, who oversees Hulu, loves the Big Apple but doesn’t want the show to become too insular. However, he assures fans that the Arconia apartment building will always be part of the show.

Season three ended with Oliver’s (Martin Short) girlfriend, Loretta

BOOK REVIEW

‘A Pastor’s Pit’

(Meryl Streep), moving back to LA, and it’s been confirmed that Streep will return for the new season. Joining them will be Charles (Steve Martin) and Mabel (Selena Gomez), who I’m assuming will tag along to LA to escape the seemingly cursed Arconia after last season ended with a cliff-hanging murder. Jane Lynch is also expected to return in some capacity as Charles’ stunt double.

The announcement of two more big names joining the cast should help alleviate the disappointment of those

BookTrib’s Bites

who aren’t pleased with the change of scenery. Molly Shannon (“The Other Two”) will play a high-powered businesswoman, and Eva Longoria (“Desperate Housewives”) will also recur. No details have been given yet about her character.

QWhen is “Yellowstone” returning with new episodes? Is it true that Kevin Costner has left the show?

— K.S.

AThe wildly successful series “Yellowstone” will return with six final episodes, beginning this November, but it probably will not include Costner. The Dutton family story will continue with the focus remaining on Rip (Cole Hauser) and Beth (Kelly Reilly). Costner parted ways with the show and its creator Taylor Sheridan when a contract couldn’t be agreed upon. Sheridan has a spin-off in the works titled “2024,” but no further details have been announced (including whether it will star Matthew McConaughey, as rumored).

As for Costner, he recently released the trailer for his upcoming Civil War-era films, titled “Horizon:

A Potpourri of Intriguing Reads

By Judge Roy Sparkman

Religious liberty is under attack in the United States. Faced with legal challenges for the mere action of preaching from the Bible, Pastor Preston and his supporters confront a terrifying truth: the U.S. Constitution is no defense against a biased district attorney obsessed with sending him to prison.

A “Pastor’s Pit” exposes the threat to the religious liberty that people of all faiths take for granted, as well as the crucial role that U.S. Supreme Court appointments and presidential elections play in maintaining the rights of all citizens. How can a pastor be indicted and tried for the “crime” of preaching from the Bible? Will the courts send him to prison or uphold his constitutional freedoms?

‘Irina’

By Philip Warren

A masterfully detailed historical novel of culture, religion, history and politics of the times intertwined with a deeply moving portrayal of tragedy, hope and perseverance. This is Irina’s journey from Polish serving girl to French businesswoman. Her determination and curiosity will make you cheer, and her harrowing escape from those who would

thwart her progress will have you holding your breath.

Poznan, Poland 1378. Irina is dying. Despite her storied life, one loss is not accounted for: her only son. In a world dominated by men, Irina finds that she can thrive, having everything she could want but the answer to one question. A rich, wonderful saga.

‘On the Way to Casa Lotus’

By Lorena Junco Margain

This is a memoir of family, art, injury and forgiveness. The author — a passionate art collector and devoted wife and mother — is already shaken after abruptly fleeing Mexico and relocating in the USA with her family. Then, she learns she has a tumor, which simple surgery can mend. But to err is human — even for surgeons. Rather than improve after surgery, her condition worsens.

Deeply compassionate, wise and poetic, the memoir lays bare some of the most poignant contradictions of the human condition, blurring the distinctions between guilt and neglectfulness, anger and sorrow, humility and shame, gratitude and despair. The book plants a seed of hope that loss

An American Saga,” which will be released in two parts this June and August. Costner not only directs but stars in “Horizon,” along with Sienna Miller and Sam Worthington. He said that he hasn’t “felt this way about a movie since … making ‘Dances with Wolves,’” which was the Oscar-winning film he also pulled double duty with back in 1990.

QWhat happened to the boxer on the new season of “The Traitors?” I don’t recall him being voted out, and now he’s gone.

— A.M.

AFormer World Boxing heavy weight champion Deontay Wilder was one of only two contestants on Peacock’s “The Traitors” who didn’t have reality show experience. He told the press that he chose to leave after three episodes because the show was bringing up emotional trauma from his childhood that caught him off-guard. The final straw was when he accused another innocent contestant of traitorous behavior. Wilder exited with his conscience intact. 

©2023 King Features Synd., Inc.

and pain can serve a higher purpose.

‘Indecent Exposure’

By Viola Trivette

Meera and Aaron have been pitted against each other since law school in their fight for a higher class rank and their ever-growing gap in political views. Apart from constant class bickering, Meera avoids Aaron after an awkward moment in an empty classroom their first year. However, as graduation approaches, she starts to regret all those nights she spent alone in the library and finally agrees to go out with her roommate where she bumps into Aaron at a noisy club.

Although both characters are undeniably drawn to one another, they refuse to admit what’s between them. What ensues is a game of back-and-forth as they each try to force the other to concede.

BookBites is presented by BookTrib.com.

Meryl Streep in “Only Murders in the Building” Photo Credit Patrick Harbron/Hulu

Five Signs That May Indicate it’s Time to Renovate

Homeowners renovate their homes for a variety of reasons. Renovations can increase the value of a property and make homes safer and more comfortable for their occupants. Improvements also can be made to stay current with the times or to give a home a new vibe.

Statista projects $510 billion will be spent on home improvements in 2024. The home improvement market is generating significant revenue. In fact, nearly a quarter of Americans opting to renovate their homes will spend an average of $10,000 on their projects.

Kitchens and bathrooms often get the most attention when it comes to home improvement. However, every room and space in a home may need a renovation at some point, and the following are five signs it’s time to renovate.

1. Age

The National Association of Home Builders states that 50% of U.S. homes are over the age of 40. That means that age alone could dictate a need to renovate, particularly if some

Imaterials are original to the home. For example, asphalt roofs typically last 25 to 30 years, while window frames can last 20 to 50 years depending on how well they have been maintained.

2. Inconvenient layout

Some homeowners scratch their heads when faced with awkward floor plan layouts. While one may live with the inconvenience for some time, typically a floor plan that isn’t working

Questions to Ask Your Renovation Contractor

ndividuals looking to renovate their homes typically reach out to a number of professionals for estimates before choosing a contractor. Once that decision has been made, it’s customary to sign a contract to ensure all parties are protected during and after the work. A renovation contract outlines the details of a remodeling job. The construction company or the general contractor will create this legal document, which will list the steps of the job and how issues will be resolved should problems arise. Prior to signing a contract, however, homeowners should engage in a conversation with the contractor and ask key questions.

• How long have you been in business?

• What is your license number?.

• Are you familiar with local building codes?

• How will the project be supervised?

• Is there a warranty?

• What is the final price?

It’s important to touch base with the contractor and ask key questions about the project, which will be reflected on the contract both parties eventually sign. (MC) 

for the homeowner is a major driver of renovations.

3. Outdated looks

A home can look dated even if it is a relatively recent build. That’s because trends change quickly. For example, dark, cherry cabinets that were popular just a little while ago have

now been replaced by lighter color palettes. Homeowners whose homes do not match the looks emulated in design magazines may consider a change, particularly if they’re planning to sell soon.

4. Deterioration

Signs of water, storm or structural damage should be addressed as soon as possible. Any deterioration should be a strong indicator that it’s time to renovate.

5. Efficiency

Escalating utility bills could be indicative of an inefficient home. Homeowners can conduct energy audits and then improve the areas where energy loss may be occurring, such as windows, doors, siding, and insulation.

Homeowners can renovate their homes when they see fit, but various signs may warn that it’s time consider updating or remodeling a home. (MC) 

Simple Landscaping Strategies for Your Home

The interior of a home may be where homeowners and their families spend the majority of their time, and there’s no denying that a well-planned interior goes a long way toward making a house a home. However, the exterior of a home, including its landscaping, can serve as a source of pride and catch the eye of prospective buyers when the home hits the market.

It’s easy to walk past a home with an eye-catching exterior and assume the homeowner has a green thumb or has spent lots of time and money working on the landscaping. Though that may be true, oftentimes it’s the simplest strategies that make all the difference. Homeowners can keep these strategies in mind as they look to transform the exterior of their homes.

Dress up the walkway A longer walkway can give guests a strong first impression of a home and won’t break the bank. Create new planting beds and plant bright plants and flowers along each side of the walkway. If it’s necessary and within budget, lengthen the walkway to create the feel of a more grandiose entryway.

Make things more symmetrical A messy landscape can give a poor first impression, even if the

area features some beautiful plants. In such instances, a little effort to make things more symmetrical, with equal parts grass and vegetation, can create a cleaner, more inviting look.

Mulch your flower and tree beds Mulch is a relatively inexpensive but effective way to add aesthetic appeal to a landscape. Freshly mulched beds beneath trees and flowers creates a clean and organized look, and the mulch also serves a practical purpose, as it reduces weed growth and helps the soil retain moisture so plants stay healthy and look better throughout the warmer months when rainfall may not be steady or significant.

Plant shade trees Shade trees can be especially useful when selling a home. The shade provided

by trees can shield grass from blistering summer sun, potentially helping it stay green. A lush green lawn appeals to buyers and gives the impression the home has been well maintained. In addition, shade trees can be used to create the look of a backyard oasis. A well-placed bench beneath a large shade tree can entice buyers who want a relaxing spot to enjoy warm summer days outdoors without getting a sunburn.

Consider maintenance The more exotic an exterior landscape is, the more maintenance it’s likely to require. Lawn and garden enthusiasts may not be turned off by landscape features that require steady maintenance, but homeowners who don’t have much time for such work should keep things simple. A poorly maintained landscape, even if it includes exotic plants and elaborate designs, will adversely affect curb appeal. Another feather in the cap of low-maintenance landscape features is they could prove more appealing to prospective buyers, who may view elaborate, exotic landscaping as a lot of extra work they won’t want to do.

Some simple landscaping strategies can help homeowners transform their home exteriors without requiring a significant investment of time or money. (MC) 

HEALTH

A Few Tips to Help Maintain Your Skin’s Health

Your skin is your first line of defense against the outer world. As the body’s largest organ, it protects you from bacteria, viruses and other environmental hazards, including pollution, ultraviolet rays from the sun and more. It also helps regulate body temperature, recognizes pain and alerts you to potential health problems, making it one of the body’s ultimate multitaskers.

While some factors that impact your skin are out of your control, there are steps you can take to support and maintain your skin’s health.

Protect Yourself from the Sun

No matter the season, exposure to UV rays from the sun can cause wrinkles, age spots and other types of damage, which could lead to skin cancer. To protect your skin from these harmful rays, use topical sunscreen daily with a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 30 — even when it’s overcast — and reapply regularly.

Boost Your Diet with Antioxidants

A well-balanced diet consisting of plenty of fruits, vegetables, lean proteins and whole grains is an important part of maintaining healthy skin. But diet alone isn’t always enough.

Many dermatologists recommend Heliocare Daily Use Antioxidant Formula as an oral dietary supplement. It contains Fernblock PLE technolo-

What is SPF?

Igy, an exclusive plant extract rich in antioxidant properties that works to counteract the negative effects of free radicals, which are unstable atoms generated through everyday life that can damage skin cells. Free radical damage can cause wrinkles, discoloration and other signs of environmental aging.

Taking a supplement daily, like Heliocare, can enhance antioxidant intake and serves as a companion to topical SPF.

Keep Skin Moisturized

Daily use of a face and body moisturizer can help maintain a healthier

ndividuals are urged to guard against sunburns and skin cancer by applying a sunscreen. But what does SPF and the various numbers associated with it mean?

SPF refers to sun protection factor. The SPF rating, according to Verywell Health, refers to how long a person can stay in the sun without getting burned while wearing the sunscreen compared to how long they could stay in the sun before burning without wearing sunscreen.

For example, if you normally burn after 10 minutes in the sun and you apply an SPF 15 product, it will take 15 times longer to burn in the sun, or 150 minutes (2.5 hours).

Wearing a higher SPF product doesn’t protect you better, it does protect you for longer durations. Therefore, you could conceivably wear an SPF 5 and with frequent reapplication, get the same level of protection as wearing SPF 45. Higher number SPF products may be preferable since people can easily get distracted or forget to apply sunscreen regularly while outdoors.

But experts recommend reapplication of sunscreen every two hours, regardless of the SPF number on your sunscreen bottle. (MC) 

skin barrier. This helps draw moisture to your skin from the air and lock it in. For best results and optimal hydration, moisturize within minutes of drying off after bathing to trap in

moisture. Also remember to drink plenty of water, which can help keep skin hydrated, too.

Reduce Stress

Uncontrolled stress can trigger the release of hormones that dull skin and cause it to produce more oil, which can result in breakouts and other skin problems. To encourage clearer, healthier skin, take steps to reduce stress such as scaling back your to-do list, setting reasonable limits, making time for things you enjoy or trying a stress-reduction technique like yoga, meditation or tai chi.

Wear Protective Clothing

In addition to topical SPF, covering skin as opposed to leaving it exposed to the elements can protect from sun damage. When UV rays are at their peak, typically in the middle of the day, consider wearing long sleeves, pants and a large-brimmed hat.

Learn more about skin, antioxidants and free radical damage at heliocare.com. (Family Features) 

FINANCE

Understanding Options When You Can’t Pay Your Mortgage

If financial hardship has put you at risk of missing a mortgage payment, you should familiarize yourself with the relief options available to you and be prepared to act quickly.

According to Freddie Mac, your first step should be to contact your mortgage company to determine which course of action makes the most sense for your circumstances. You may also want to brush up on the terms below to more fully understand the best path forward based on your situation:

Short-Term Hardship Options

If you are unable to pay your mortgage, whether due to disaster or other financial hardship, the most popular and widely available mortgage assistance is “forbearance.” This is when your mortgage company allows you to make a reduced payment or pause your payment for a specified period up to 12 months. When this period ends, you will make up your payments in one of several ways.

The fastest way is through “reinstatement,” which means getting current on your mortgage by paying the owed amount in one lump sum. Alternatively, you can set up a “repayment plan,” whereby you pay a little more each month on top of your mortgage. If you have overcome a short-term hardship but are unable to afford these options, a “payment deferral” may be a good solution. This reinstates the mortgage to “current status” by deferring missed payments into a non-interest bearing account that becomes due when you sell or refinance your home or pay off your mortgage. You will not be required to make monthly payments on the deferred balance until the payoff date.

Long-Term Hardship Options

If you anticipate long-term financial struggles, you may wish to speak to your loan servicer about a “loan modification.” This written agreement will permanently change one or more terms of your original loan

agreement to make it more affordable and sustainable.

If homeownership is no longer affordable for you, there are strategies to help you avoid the costly impacts of foreclosure. One of those is “selling with equity.” With this option, you can use the proceeds from selling your home to pay off any remaining mortgage debt. If the home’s value is greater than the amount you owe, you keep the excess funds. Alternatively, you can voluntarily transfer your property title to the mortgage company in exchange for a cancellation of your debt and a graceful exit from your home. This maneuver is known as a “deed-in-lieu of foreclosure.” Finally, if you’ve exhausted all other options, a “short sale” may be your best choice. This refers to selling your home for a lower amount than you owe. It also forfeits your negotiating power on the property’s sales price. With a short sale, you will not see proceeds from the sale and you must wait a certain period of time, which

may be anywhere from 2 to 4 years, before qualifying for a new mortgage.

Getting Help

Housing counselors are much more than a go-to resource for homebuyers. They’re also able to help current homeowners manage debt, rebuild credit and work with their loan servicers to avoid foreclosure.

If you’re facing financial hardship, reach out to a HUD-certified housing counselor at one of Freddie Mac’s Borrower Help Centers or Borrower Help Network for free assistance.

HUD-certified counselors are trained, independent professionals who will listen, offer advice and help you make informed decisions about your finances and home. Visit my home.freddiemac.com to learn more.

Homeownership can be complicated, particularly when you’re facing financial hardship. But expert help, available at little or no cost, can help you navigate rough financial waters. (SPT) 

Defensive Driving Refresher Course AUTOMOTIVE

Driving affords people the freedom to travel wherever they desire so long as they have access to a reliable vehicle. However, soon after the “new car smell” of that freshly minted license wears off, motorists may realize that many roads can be chaotic and populated by erratic drivers. Defensive driving strategies can help any motorist feel safe on the road, and it can help anyone to revisit a defensive approach from time to time.

What is defensive driving?

The insurance firm Progressive notes defensive drivers employ techniques that can reduce accident risk. These techniques promote alertness, a recognition among drivers of the significance of controlling what they can, and a commitment to always expect the unexpected.

The crux of defensive driving is realizing not everyone else drives well. Aggressive drivers are hazards, as are those who are distracted behind the wheel. Driving defensively serves to mitigate some of these hazards.

All good kids like milk?

There are various defensive driving techniques, and various driving schools or organizations may promote their own. Harold L. Smith was a World War II veteran who founded the Smith System® driving school in 1952. Smith felt that driving schools only taught how to mechanically operate vehicles, not how to drive safely to avoid accidents. Smith’s system uses the mnemonic “all good kids like milk,” which refers to:

Aim high in steering® Look ahead a

minimum of 15 seconds to scan the road. At 60 miles per hour you want to look a quarter-mile ahead. This helps you make timely decisions. Get the big picture® Keep a mini mum following distance by picking a fixed object ahead and making sure you’re at least seven seconds away. In addition, scan mirrors every few sec onds.

Keep your eyes moving® Avoid fo cusing on one object for more than a few seconds. Driving on autopilot or under “highway hypnosis” is danger ous.

Leave yourself an out® The “space cushion” terminology is something you may have heard. You always want to anticipate potential hazards and ensure a way to avoid them; other wise, you may be forced to make a quick, and potentially dangerous, de cision.

Make sure they see you® Drivers who can’t see you may make their own maneuvers thinking the coast is clear. Try to make eye contact with other drivers, use headlights, your horn, and signal your intentions.

Take a Defensive Driving Course

You can follow the Smith method outlined here or enroll in a defen sive driving course to further hone your skills behind the wheel. Also, it may be worth it to check with your insurance provider to see if taking a defensive driving course will qualify you for a discount on your automo tive policy.

Defensive driving is important, as it can keep drivers and their passengers safe and potentially prevent accidents and injuries. (MC) 

Opinion

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

ETHICALLY SPEAKING

The Coming Plagues

As a former infectious disease researcher and clinical microbiologist, I maintained my credentials by reading publications including “The Coming Plague” by L. Garrett, a frightening 1994 New York Times best seller. This well-researched prediction over 30 years ago depicts what we are now experiencing in the United States by the illegal invasion of millions of unvetted and unvaccinated immigrants from all over the world. The likely prospect of many chaotic infectious disease outbreaks is high and risks a serious breakdown of America’s viable public health practices.

During a past Reagan Library speech, our Rep. Mike Garcia showed his F-18 fighter pilot military savvy by declaring: “A ‘woke’ military is a ‘broke’ military.” Likewise, an illegal “woke” immigration policy assures “broke” public health practices.

As our ally in Congress, Garcia showed his disgust of President Joe Biden’s illegal and intentional immigration border policy by voting to impeach Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas, one of the three major perpetuators of this treasonous behavior by the Biden regime (including Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris, the “border czar.”). This is clearly aiding our enemies and not protecting Americans and is treason as defined by the U.S. Constitution. Now let’s finish the impeachment and U.S Senate conviction of these deceptive “leaders” intent on destroying America, our culture and our God-inspired constitutional liberties.

Larry Bustetter Valencia

Don’t Hide the Galoshes

I just had a letter published in The Signal, “El Niño Is a Certainty,” dated Feb. 4, and before the ink was dry there is La Niña on the heels of El Niño.

This La Niña is never guaranteed, but if it comes to fruition the weather will be cooler and drier whereas El Niño is associated with warm and wet winters.

According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, this past El Niño is believed to be the fifth strongest El Niño on record. El Niño and La Niña are not acting alone, whereas climate change is also exerting more influence on conditions in California and the U.S. There is a constant interplay between El Niño and La Niña and global warming.

So don’t store that wet weather garb yet, and if it is safe let the kids as well as you play in the puddles wearing their rain boots.

Lois Eisenberg Valencia

Good Things for Good Reasons

By David Hegg

Iadmit to being one of those who enjoys and prefers classical music. Consequently, I tune in to KUSC, our Classical California Music station, in my car and at home.

If you listened to KUSC a couple of weeks ago, you know they were in the middle of their quarterly fundraising campaign. Given that 80% of the station’s funding comes from listeners, the staff not only take their fundraising duties seriously, but they are also very good at explaining how beneficial their musical offerings are to their listeners and our community. They are also very good at making it easy and satisfying for those who listen to donate yearly to keep the music flowing. So, it comes as no surprise that they met their fundraising goal due to the generous support of their listeners.

the list of essential character qualities. Increasingly, our national motto could be “get all you can, can all you get, and sit on top of the can scared someone is going to steal your stuff!”

I could spend a few paragraphs here giving examples of how our American way of thinking is moving away from a “we’re all in this together” philosophy of relationship to a dangerous “it’s just me and you, and I’m not so sure about you” perspective of suspicion and downright hatred of those around us.

But actually, it is surprising. Why would someone donate money to a radio station they have listened to for years for free? What kind of foolishness is that? What kind of person goes out of their way to give away good money for a product or service available at no cost? Why, that seems downright idiotic and maybe even un-American! After all, money is tight right now. Prices are increasing, and we’re all trying to find ways to save money, not give it to those who give away their products for free!

But then again, KUSC presents an example of what is very American. After a week of listening to the many fundraising requests, I realized this: A thriving society is built on good people doing good things for good reasons. It’s called altruism.

Altruism describes the attitude of caring for others and creating good for them, even when no benefit is gained. It is the desire to do something to make others better, to lift their misery, or to promote their joy, even when such action will bring no tangible benefit to you. As I see it, being an anonymous donor and enabling others to enjoy what is essentially free to me is a fantastic example of doing a good thing for a good, altruistic reason. This is especially true when no one is obligated to donate, but they do so to help improve life.

Now, if only we could take a step back from talking about small donations to a publicly funded radio station and view our relationship as neighbors and fellow citizens as an even grander stage for altruism. Can you see what I see?

I can see the rise and flourishing of a selfish society all around. We’re waist-deep in a culture that glamorizes the idea of “self-love” to the extent that “love of neighbor” is quickly vanishing from

I could do that, but I’d much rather encourage each of you to consider adopting a simple motto from now on: Do the right thing! Do good things for good reasons. Be the one who is known for kindness toward others, even those with whom you disagree. Pick up the litter. Put your shopping cart away. Let that guy who is in a hurry merge in front of you. Compliment those whose jobs often are invisible but whose labor makes a difference. Thank your grocery clerk. Praise a teen for having a job and working diligently. Leave a bigger tip for the waitress doing a good job serving you. Simply put, find ways to do good things for good reasons, even if you never gain anything.

In case you’re wondering, yes, I did donate to KUSC. I did it not because I thought my contribution was essential to keeping classical music available to me. After all, in the years I didn’t donate, I still enjoyed their product! But I did it because, for me, it was a good thing to do to discipline my heart away from inbred self-centeredness and toward a selfless love of neighbor.

Our city, state, country and world desperately need millions of good people with that kind of discipline.

Remember, the virus of self-centeredness lies in every human heart. It takes a bit of rationalization to awaken it, and then watch out. Soon, your game will change from caring about others to caring only for yourself. And when your selfish desires and actions begin to erode your usefulness in the lives of those around you, here’s my suggestion.

Tune in to KUSC and, as the music calms your nerves, remember that you’re receiving for free the exquisite musical masterpieces created by incredibly gifted men and women who used their gifts to make life better for people they would never know. Then, resolve to go and do likewise.

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

A beauty to the bold.

It’s never looked better, offered more, or felt more incredible to drive: Here is the 2024 Mercedes-AMG GLE

Drive the 2024 Mercedes-AMG EQE, an all-electric sedan with a thirst for power.