Helm Vision Group is pleased to introduce laser cataract surgery to the Santa Clarita Valley and surrounding communities.
A blade-free procedure, laser cataract surgery is precise and predictable, resulting in an all new level of customized patient care. Our Swiss-engineered Ziemer FEMTO LDV ZS laser applies less energy, decreasing inflammation and enabling a faster healing time, which results in a more gentle experience. The finest care available for your eyes is here at Helm Vision Group. Schedule an appointment with us today to find out more about blade-free cataract surgery and the FEMTO LDV ZS laser system.
The Centennial of The Mother Road: Route 66
By Michele E. Buttelman Sunday Staff Writer
With a world that seems to keep changing at a lightning-fast pace, it is comforting to know that not everything old and familiar is being bulldozed into rubble.
In addition to the 250th birthday of the United States, which will be celebrated with a spectacular birthday party in July, this year is also the centennial celebration of the historic Route 66, a highway that has fueled the wanderlust of the American psyche, as well as the world’s imagination and passion for “the open road” for 100 years.
What could be more nostalgic than taking the “mother of all road trips” on historic Route 66. There are old-timey diners, museums, historic landmarks and traditional small towns all along the route.
A variety of events are being held in 2026 from Santa Monica to Chicago to celebrate the anniversary. Be a part of history, join the millions who have made the trip along Route 66. Don’t miss this chance to “get your kicks on Route 66.”
What is Route 66?
Bristow, Oklahoma celebrates a landmark moment on April 11, as the tallest freestanding neon sign on historic Route 66, the 10-story Chrysler Tower is officially relit. PHOTO COURTESY BRISTOW HISTORICAL SOCIETY.
The Route 66 Centennial marks the 100th anniversary of the designation of U.S. Route 66, America’s most iconic highway. The highway runs from Chicago to Santa Monica and crosses eight states, California, Arizona, New Mexico, Texas, Oklahoma, Kansas, Missouri and Illinois. This celebration honors not only the past but the future of heritage, smalltown America, road travel and cultural diversity.
The numerical route designation “66” was assigned to the Chicago-to-Los Angeles route on April 30, 1926 and was “officially established” on Nov. 11, 1926.
The road runs approximately 2,448 miles in length. When the road was first established, only 800 miles of the total highway were paved. Throughout the years Route 66 has acquired several names, including the most famous, “The Mother Road” from John Steinbeck’s “The Grapes of Wrath. It also is known as the Main Street of America and the Will Rogers Highway.
It is a culturally significant symbol of freedom, migration, economic development and pop culture. There are more than 250 buildings, bridges, road alignments and other sites along Route 66 that are
listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The movie “Easy Rider” was filmed at several locations along Route 66 and the film “Thelma and Louise” also featured Route 66 references and scenes. Route 66 was officially decommissioned in 1985, but many sections are still designated as “Historic Route 66.”
Planning Your Route 66 Road Trip
Before you hit the road, don’t forget to download a Route 66 navigation guide. There are many to choose from in your phone’s app store, available for iPhones and Android.
One of the most popular apps is the free “Route 66 Ultimate Guide.” Many guides offer turn-by-turn guidance to keep you on the correct route, as well as popular historic stops along the way.
You will need to plan 10-14 days to make this 2,400-plus-mile trip. April to October are the best months for traveling this historic highway.
A Year of Route 66 Celebrations
There are numerous events being held on Route 66 in 2026. For a full schedule of Route 66 events, visit route66centennial.org.
Roy’s Route 66 Cruisin’ Car Show
Saturday, March 7, 10 a.m. Free 87520 National Trails Highway, Amboy, CA 92304 Info www.facebook.com/events/2921082281853 1641
Celebrate the Route 66 Centennial at the free
Second Annual Roy’s Cruisin’ Car Show in Amboy, Calif.
The all-day community event will begin at 9 a.m. and run until the movies are over. Held at the legendary Roy’s Motel & Cafe, this car show aims to breathe new life into the historic ghost town of Amboy, while celebrating the 100-year anniversary of Route 66.
For car enthusiasts Register your vehicle, any year, make, or model is welcome. To register, visit bit. ly/4aIKZwZ.
For pin-ups Participate in the Ms. Amboy Pin-Up Contest. To register, visit bit.ly/4ks74mK
For everyone Enjoy a full day of live music, food and free on-site camping.
Ultimate Route 66 Ballpark Destination
April 7-Aug. 30
San Manuel Stadium, 280 South E. St., San Bernardino, 92401
Info www.milb.com/inland-empire
The Inland Empire 66ers, named after the Mother Road, are celebrating the centennial of Route 66 at every home game during the 2026 season. Is there a more perfect celebration of America on Route 66 than a minor league baseball game?
Grand LIGHTS ON Ceremony
April 11, 4- p.m. Free.
9th and Main Street, Bristow, OK 74010. Info www.bristowhistory.org
It’s time to get your “glow” on as Bristow, Oklahoma celebrates a landmark moment on April 11, as the tallest freestanding neon sign on historic Route 66, the Chrysler Tower, is officially relit.
Dark since the 1950s, this 10-story automobilia icon has undergone a complete restoration, including new neon and has been relocated to a new site in downtown Bristow along Route 66.
To commemorate the relighting, the community will host a festival featuring food vendors and live musical performances at 9th and Main. Main Street (Route 66) will be closed to traffic 5-9 p.m. to accommodate attendees and event activities.
Route 66 Centennial National Kick-Off
Saturday, April 30, 5:15 p.m.
Great Southern Bank Arena, Missouri State University Campus, 901 S. National Ave., Springfield, Mo. 65897
Info bit.ly/402zjz0
The free Second Annual Roy’s Cruisin’ Car Show in Amboy, Calif. will be held Saturday, March 7. The all-day community event will begin at 9 a.m. and run until the movies are over. Held at the legendary Roy’s Motel & Cafe, this car show will celebrate the 100-year anniversary of Route 66. PHOTO COURTESY ROY’S MOTEL AND CAFÉ, AMBOY, CALIF.
The Santa Monica Pier is the famous ending point of Route 66 from east to west, or the jumping-off point if traveling west to east. PHOTO COURTESY U.S. ROUTE 66 CENTENNIAL.
As the official kickoff to the National Route 66 Centennial, the kickoff concert, with a two-hour simulcast, features headline act Little Big Town.
Hosted by actor John Goodman, this concert pays tribute to the history, culture and communities that
have shaped the Mother Road..
April 30 is the anniversary of the telegram that was sent in 1926 from Springfield to Washington, D.C., requesting that a new transcontinental road be named Route 66.
City Meditation Garden Offers Shade, Seclusion and Peace
By Susan Monaghan Signal Staff Writer
The city unveiled what might be a first for Santa Clarita during an unseasonably beautiful afternoon at Duane R. Harte Park — a meditation garden.
City leaders, who gathered for the garden’s ribbon cutting ceremony, said the new space was special for a couple of reasons: First, it was intentionally sequestered to the back of the park, and second, it was designed with “drought-resistant” landscaping techniques in mind.
Santa Clarita Mayor Laurene Weste took the lead on introducing the city’s thinking behind the garden ahead of the big ribbon cut.
“(The park) is set away from the playground and the major paths where you will have reduced sound,” Weste said. “The meditation garden creates a sense of refuge and tranquility here in this quiet zone, (and) this designation emphasizes simplicity and balance, allowing the natural landscape, including the surrounding hillsides and mature oak trees, to take center stage.”
While the garden features no flashy waterfalls, it does have a solar-powered boulder fountain, along
Serenity Hot Yoga Owner
with some hearty-looking green tuft plants dotting the sides of the pathways.
The garden’s biggest feature is a looping gravel pathway that travels a short distance up a hillside at the very back of the park, densely shaded by nearby oak trees. Part of the festivities at the ribbon-cutting ceremony featured yoga and tai chi demonstrations in the park’s gravel pits.
While Sarah Lowman performed tai chi — encouraging park unveiling attendees to join in — Serenity Hot Yoga owner
Annelie DeFazio made music on the rims of bowls while one of her studio’s students performed a yoga demonstration.
While there’s something to be said for the vibe a name can create, the meditation garden’s first hour of operation seemed to justify the choices that’d made it. Big oaks
on either side blocked out sound and wind as many of the roughly 80 attendees sat down to listen to the sound of bowl rims being played.
Murali Nair, a former professor at USC’s school of social work who’s currently adjuncting remotely for Columbia University in New York, was excited for the new garden. He lives right across the street, he said, and was aware of the ongoing construction.
Nair might be an expert on the utility of these spaces: He teaches mindfulness at the Santa Clarita Valley Senior Center, and as a professor his work has often touched on what it means to live healthily.
“I was in Japan several times, you know, so when we they first (started) talking about (the mindfulness garden), I was thinking, ‘It’s like in (Japan),’” Nair said.
Nair keeps active in the neighborhood, and with another venue for secluded stretches, his neighbors — or his five grandkids — may stand a chance of catching up.
“I walk 15,000 steps in this area,” Nair said. “I always like (it), it’s beautiful.”
Duane R. Harte Park is located at 26401 Riverrock Way, Santa Clarita, CA 91351.
Sarah Lowman demonstrates Tai Chi at the new meditation garden.
Annelie DeFazio plays
meditation bowls as one of her students performs a yoga demonstration at the city of
Santa Clarita’s new meditation garden at Duane R. Harte Park. PHOTOS BY SUSAN MONAGHAN / THE SIGNAL
Fun Nights Out
On some nights in Santa Clarita, the glow isn’t coming from bar neon but from quiz sheets, dance floors, game tables and dessert cases, where neighbors linger past dark in places that feel more like a village square than a nightlife scene.
King Trivia Every Wednesday
For those looking for midweek fun that doesn’t revolve around drinks, MB2 Entertainment offers a lively alternative. Every Wednesday at 7 p.m., teams gather inside the MB2 restaurant for King Trivia, a fast-paced game night that tests everything from pop culture knowledge to random facts you didn’t know you remembered. It’s a mix of friendly competition, laughter, and the occasional triumphant highfive — with prizes for the top teams and bragging rights up for grabs. MB2 restaurant is located at 21516 Golden Triangle Rd. For information, call (661) 753-3413, or visit mb2enter tainmentscv.com/mb2-events.
Chinese Dance
If you’re looking for a midweek outing that swaps cocktails for culture,
the Newhall Community Center is offering a refreshing alternative this spring. Beginning Feb. 25, the center will host a six-week Chinese Dance class Wednesdays from 7 to 8 p.m., running through April 1.
Participants — no experience required — will learn graceful, traditional movements set to Chinese-inspired music in a welcoming, all-levels environment. The co-ed class is open to adults ages 18 to 99 and aims to help dancers move, express, and connect through rhythm and storytelling. Registration is $20 for Santa Clarita residents and $25 for non-residents. The Newhall Community Center is located at 22421 Market Street. To sign up, visit www.seasons.santaclarita. gov/santaclarita/programs, choose the Newhall Community Center, and look for the Adult/Senior programs section.
Line Dancing
For adults who’d rather two-step than bar-hop, Ignite Studio in Castaic is making Monday and Thursday nights all about rhythm, connection, and a little country flair. Known as the place “where adults come to play,” Ignite blends fitness, fun and self-expression in a club-like setting that’s as welcoming as it is energetic.
The studio’s dance philosophy is simple: everyone can learn, every skill starts with day one, and every class should be fun. That spirit comes to life during its popular Line Dance Country & Remix Parties, held at 7:30 p.m. on Mondays, Feb. 16 and 23, and during the Non-Country Club Line Dancing Nights at 6 p.m. on Thursdays, Feb. 19 and 26. More sessions will continue through March. Ignite Studio is located at 27955 Sloan Canyon Rd. in Castaic, at the intersection of Sloan Canyon Road and The Old Road. Pricing depends
on the membership level you choose. For details, call (661) 344-4168 or visit ignitestudio.org.
Late-Night Dessert
If your late-night plans lean more toward sugar than spirits, Gelati Gelato has you covered. The artisan dessert café stays open until midnight Sunday through Thursday — and keeps the lights on until 1 a.m. on Fridays and Saturdays — making it one of the sweetest after-dark stops in town.
Bringing a taste of Europe to Santa Clarita, Gelati Gelato crafts authentic Italian gelato with about 30 percent less sugar and fat than traditional ice cream. It’s more than just a counterand-cone spot — the shop’s laid-back vibe invites guests to slow down, savor their dessert, and enjoy live music or soft evening tunes in the background.
Beyond its creamy gelato (including several vegan options), the menu stretches into waffles, crepes, Dubai chocolates, smoothies, and French macaroons — perfect for capping off dinner or fueling a midnight stroll.
Gelati Gelato is located at 26240 Bouquet Canyon Rd. in Santa Clarita. For details, call (661) 200-3881 or visit
gelatigelato.com/santa-clarita.
Gaming
For those whose perfect night out involves dice rolls and deck shuffles instead of drinks, Tapped Out Gaming in Valencia offers a lively, community-driven alternative. This local game shop and hobby haven brings together fans of Warhammer, Magic: The Gathering, Disney Lorcana, Pokémon, One Piece, Digimon, and beyond — creating a world where strategy, storytelling, and camaraderie come first.
But it’s not just about cards or miniatures. At Tapped Out, the focus is on connection — welcoming newcomers and veterans alike to gather for tournaments, casual play nights, and shared laughter across the gaming tables. The atmosphere is friendly, easygoing, and just competitive enough to keep you coming back for more.
Tapped Out Gaming is located at 28410 Avenue Stanford in Valencia and open from 2 to 9 p.m. Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday, and noon to 10 p.m. on weekends. For event listings or more information, call (661) 294-2736 or visit tappedout gaming.net.
Making Every Drop Count with the Rain Barrel Purchase Program
By Ken Striplin
Santa Clarita City Manager
After years of watching the skies and tracking reservoir levels, Californians are finally seeing a welcome change: the state is no longer in a drought. We have seen more rain, greener landscapes and stable water supplies; however, in a region with regular dry cycles, one thing remains true — how we manage water greatly impacts tomorrow.
Water is one of Santa Clarita’s most valuable resources, and protecting it has always been about more than responding to drought conditions. It’s about stewardship, sustainability and making smart choices that will support our community for generations to come. That philosophy is why the City
of Santa Clarita is once again offering its Rain Barrel Purchase Program, giving residents a simple, affordable way to conserve water and make the most of every rainfall.
On Saturday, February 21, Santa Clarita residents will have the opportunity to pick up pre-ordered rain barrels at the Newhall Community Center (22421 Market Street). The program is open exclusively to City residents, who may purchase up to two rain barrels at the reduced rate of $45 each, while supplies last. This reflects the City’s ongoing commitment to helping households adopt water-saving practices that are both simple and impactful. Beyond the barrels themselves, education remains a key part of this program. On the morning of the pick-up event, the City’s contractor, Rain Barrels Intl., will host an informational class, beginning
at 9:00 a.m., at the Newhall Community Center. In addition to the City’s Rain Barrel Purchase Program, SCV Water offers a rain barrel rebate program. To see if you qualify for the rebate, visit yourSCVWater.com/Rebates.
Rain barrels provide an easy way to capture and reuse rainwater that would otherwise flow into storm drains. By collecting rainwater from rooftops, residents can use this natural resource for landscape irrigation, gardening and other outdoor needs. This reduces demand on our water supply and helps lessen stormwater runoff, protecting local waterways and improving overall water quality. Each rain barrel offered through the program has a 50-gallon capacity and is constructed from durable, food-grade plastic. The barrels are equipped with a solid brass spigot for easy hose attachment and a four-inch
mesh screen to prevent debris and insects from entering.
Programs like the Rain Barrel Purchase Program are just one example of how Santa Clarita continues to lead with forward-thinking environmental initiatives. Whether through water conservation, stormwater management or broader sustainability efforts, the City remains focused on solutions that protect our natural resources while enhancing the quality of life for residents.
To preorder a rain barrel or learn more about the Rain Barrel Purchase Program, please visit City.sc/Rain Barrel. For additional information on the City’s environmental initiatives, you can go to GreenSantaClarita.com.
Ken Striplin is the City Manager for the City of Santa Clarita and can be reached at kstriplin@santaclarita.gov.
Carrasco, Owner
Upgrade Your Sunday Meal with Fresh, Roasted Pork
If you’re looking for a bit of an upgrade to your main course, pork can become your new family favorite.
Fragrant stuffing made from aromatic veggies, bread, sage, rosemary and apples turns a simple pork loin into a dazzling dish that’s sure to wow loved ones.
This roast is perfectly suited for a holiday gathering with Coleman All-Natural Meat’s humane-certified Boneless Center Cut Pork Butt Roast. With a leading legacy as an all-natural meat provider since 1875, it’s celebrating its 150-year anniversary this season.
The milestone celebrates and recognizes a family heritage and commitment to all-natural, humanely raised meats sourced from American farmers, raised with no antibiotics ever, no added hormones and fed an all-vegetarian diet.
A delicious, extravagant way to upgrade your family’s main course this season, you just might’ve found a new favorite way to ring in the holidays with a tender, juicy, effortlessly sliced roast. Find more holiday recipe ideas by visiting ColemanNat ural.com.
In large skillet over medium-high heat, heat oil and butter. Add celery, carrots and onions; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
While vegetables are cooking, whisk eggs; milk; salt, to taste; and pepper, to taste, until well combined. Mince sage and rosemary.
In large bowl, combine bread, vegetable mixture, liquid ingredients, apples, sage and rosemary. Gently toss until bread absorbs most of the liquid.
Cut three pieces of butcher’s twine about 4 inches longer than the longest side of butterflied roast. Lay string on cutting board horizontally and lay roast on top of string to cover.
Place half of the stuffing mixture onto butterflied pork loin and press down firmly. Roll roast up and tie with butcher’s twine to hold it together, taking care not to tie too tightly, and
press any stuffing that comes loose back into ends of roast.
Place stuffed and tied roast, fat cap up, on rack over baking sheet. Season liberally with salt and pepper; roast until meat thermometer inserted into roast registers 140 F, 75-90 minutes.
Place remaining stuffing in a small ovenproof casserole dish and cover with foil. After roasting 30 minutes, place extra stuffing in oven to cook alongside roast.
Remove foil from extra stuffing and remove roast from oven. Let rest for 10 minutes then remove the extra stuffing from oven.
Cut twine from roast and discard. Cut roast into six thick slices, taking care not to lose stuffing. Serve with extra stuffing and gravy. (Family Features)
The Latest News on What’s Happening In Hollywood
By Tony Rizzo
Despite all of Timothee Chalamet’s award nominations, his current film
million to make, and grossed $310 million in comparison.
But neither compares to the $1.4 billion that was earned by “Avatar: Fire and Ash.” It’s hard to know its exact cost since all five “Avatar” films were shot at the same time (although it’s estimated to be $400 million). “Zootopia 2” took years to animate, but it opened on Nov. 26, 2025, to $1.7 billion in box-office receipts.
Sunday-Thursday, Februar y 15-19, 2026
“Marty Supreme” (which opened on Dec. 25, 2025) recouped a little over $100 million against its $70 million production cost. (It needed $140 million to break even.) But “Dune: Part Three” will undoubtedly explode when it opens this December. “Dune: Part Two” (2024) cost $190 million and made $715 million. Glen Powell didn’t receive any award nominations for “The Running Man,” which only made $68.6 million against its $110-million production cost. Sydney Sweeney and Amanda Seyfried’s film “The Housemaid” opened on Dec. 19, 2025, cost $35
Powell recently completed “How to Make a Killing” (out on Feb. 20) with Margaret Qualley, as well as the sci-fi film “The Great Beyond” (opening in November) with Jenna Ortega and Samuel L. Jackson. In addition, he’s currently shooting the second season of Hulu’s “Chad Powers.” He also just signed up to play “a country western star in free fall” in an upcoming un-
NEWHALL
ful - contac t spor t dominated by the fastest, fiercest animals in the world.
G O O D LU C K, H AV E F U N, D O N’T D I E E 1:00 4:00 7 00
A time traveler must recru t a group of d st nc t y unqualified diner patrons to stop the impending AI apocalypse and save human ty from the perils of soc al media
W U T H E R I N G H E I G H TS E 12:50 3:50 7:00 Emerald Fennell s “WUTHERING HEIGHTS” stars Margot Robbie as Cathy and Jacob Elord as Heathcliff, whose forbidden passion for one another turns from romant c to intoxicating in an ep c tale of lust, love and madness
S O LO M I O B 1:00 7:10
SOLO MIO follows Matt, a man whose dreams of a p c turesque Italian wedding are shattered when his fiancée leaves him at the altar.
S E N D H E L P E 1 20 4:20 7:20 Two co leagues become stranded on a deser ted island, the only sur v vors of a plane crash On the is and, they must overcome past grievances and work together to sur vive
T H E M O M E N T E 4:00 PM A rising pop star navigates the complexities of fame and ndustr
Jane Fonda in the documentary “Gaslit”Photo by Tim Aubry, courtesy of Greenpeace titled Judd Apatow film, with leading lady Madelyn Cline of the Netflix series “Outer Banks,” which is starting its fifth and final season soon.
Living legend and one of the three last true movie stars of the Golden Age of Hollywood Jane Fonda, 88, personally researched Texas oil fields for her upcoming documentary “Gaslit,” which had its world premiere at the Santa Barbara International Film Festival on Feb. 5. Jane traveled in a trailer through oil fields, observing oil facilities that release deadly methane gases, which aren’t visible to the naked eye.
She contends that methane is a significant contributor to climate change (and at least 60 premature deaths), and it costs $957 million in health expenses each year. Jane’s future outlook is that if something isn’t done to stop this now, the amount of deaths will increase to 149, and the expenses will raise to $2.33 billion or more each year. Jane is passionate as she states: “I’ve seen massive clouds of methane
Top Movies
Feb. 9, 2026
1. Send Help (R) Rachel McAdams, Dylan O’Brien
2. Iron Lung (R) Mark Fischbach, Caroline Kaplan
3. Melania (PG) Melania Trump, Hervé Pierre
4. Zootopia 2 (PG) Ginnifer Goodwin, Jason Bateman
5. Avatar: Fire and Ash (PG13) Sam Worthington, Zoe Saldana
6. Shelter (R) Jason Statham, Bodhi Rae Breathnach
7. Mercy (PG-13) Chris Pratt, Rebecca Ferguson
8. The Housemaid (R) Sydney Sweeney, Amanda Seyfried
When Jane takes up a cause, she’s ready to fight and even go to jail as she has in the past. She solemnly swears, “I promise I’ll do everything in my power until the day I die to make sure people know exactly what’s going on here!” And this is just one of the reasons I’ve been so fond of Jane since we first met when I was 17!
Aging and change go hand in hand. Physical changes associated with aging, such as graying hair or reduced muscle mass, may garner the most attention. But personal relationships also can change as people age. As a person ages, interests could change and home base may not be what it once was. People move after retirement, and friends you might once have seen with frequency may no longer be as close by. Children are older, and the friends you made from these early parenthood relationships may change as well.
It is important to have a solid group of friends. Psychology Today reports that a strong social network reduces the risk of early death by around 45 percent. Recent data even indicates that loneliness is as great a health risk as smoking half a pack of cigarettes per day.
Starting fresh and making friends at 50 or older might seem challenging. Although making new friends after 50 may take more effort than it did when you were younger, it is certainly not impossible. Here are some tips for making friends after 50.
Join a networking group Networking isn’t just for advancing your ca-
reer. Networking groups that focus on friendships can help individuals meet one another. Perhaps there is a neighborhood group in which people from a particular housing development or several streets in town get together? Shared interests can include the place where you live.
Organize a get-together Sometimes making friends involves effort on your part. You might need to step out of your comfort zone and initiate first contact with others. Maybe there is a person at a store you run into frequently, or someone whose path you cross regularly that can be asked out to a get-together?
Get involved with activities A church group or a volunteer activity can be a great place to meet new people. In fact, volunteers often get involved for the express purpose of getting to know others and to be integral members of the community.
Consider other generations Friends need not be the same age and from the same generation. Keep an open mind that friends can come in all ages and from all walks of life.
Making friends after 50 requires some effort, but a sizable social network can benefit individual well-being into one’s golden years. (MC)
Many Americans are fortunate to have dental coverage for their entire working life, through employer-provided benefits. When those benefits end with retirement, paying dental bills out-ofpocket can come as a shock, leading people to put off or even go without care.
Simply put — without dental insurance, there may be an important gap in your healthcare coverage.
When you’re comparing plans ...
Look for coverage that helps pay for major services. Some plans may limit the number of procedures — or pay for preventive care only.
Look for coverage with no deductibles. Some plans may require you to pay hundreds out of pocket before benefits are paid.
Shop for coverage with no annual maximum on cash benefits. Some plans have annual maximums of $1,000.
Medicare doesn’t pay for dental care.1
That’s right. As good as Medicare is, it was never meant to cover everything. That means if you want protection, you need to purchase individual insurance.
Early detection can prevent small problems from becoming expensive ones.
The best way to prevent large dental bills is preventive care. The American Dental Association recommends checkups twice a year.
Previous dental work can wear out.
Even if you’ve had quality dental work in the past, you shouldn’t take your dental health for granted. In fact, your odds of having a dental problem only go up as you age.2
Treatment is expensive — especially the services people over 50 often need.
Consider these national average costs of treatment ... $274 for a checkup ... $299 for a filling ... $1,471 for a crown.3 Unexpected bills like this can be a real burden, especially if you’re on a fixed income.
1 “Medicare & You,” Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, 2025. 2 “Aging changes in teeth and gums”, medlineplus. gov, 4/17/2022. 3 FairHealth, Inc. National average dental fees. Data current as of July 2025; subject to change.
DENTAL Insurance
from Physicians Mutual Insurance Company, Inc.
Get help with big bills!
Go to any dentist you want Helps pay for over 400 procedures No deductible, no annual maximum
HOME
Repurpose Your Formal Dining Room
TAlaskan Cruise & Tour
• Marvel at Alaska’s natural beauty in Denali National Park
• Visit Alaska’s the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center
• Cruise Glacier Bay and Wrangell St. Elias National Park
• Travel through the legendary Inside Passage
BOOK BY 3/31 MUST BOOK BY 3/12
ON APR 18, 2026 DEPARTURE
• Visit must-see sights like the historic starting point of Route 66 in Chicago, the famous Cadillac Ranch in Amarillo, and the “End of the Trail” sign in Santa Monica
• Explore natural wonders of the Grand Canyon, Petrified Forest National Park, and the Painted Desert
• Discover Seligman, known as the “historic birthplace of Route 66,” and visit the vibrant Hotel El Rancho in Gallup, where Golden Age movie stars once stayed
raditional formal dining rooms are not as necessary as they were a generation or two ago. A recent study by Realtor.com found formal dining rooms are often the most underutilized square footage in homes, and a significant percentage of Millennial and Gen Z homeowners prefer flexible “lifestyle rooms” over dining spaces.
So what can homeowners whose dining room tables are covered in mail or the kids’ homework do to repurpose the space into something they will actually use? The following are five ideas to repurpose a formal dining room into a more usable space.
Lounge Those who enjoy hosting friends or family without sitting down to formal dinners might appreciate transforming the dining space into a cocktail lounge. Swapping the dining room table and chairs for low swivel chairs around a coffee table or highbacked bar stools around bar tables easily converts the seating space. A built-in wet bar or a bar cart helps complete this social hub for intimate conversation. Paint the room in darker colors or use textured wallpaper to simulate an after-hours feel that separates the space from the rest of the house.
Library Homeowners can create a digital detox zone by way of a cozy library. A timeless choice, a library can feature floor-to-ceiling bookshelves or built-ins and comfortable reading chairs stationed by a window.
Music space Homeowners who play an instrument may appreciate a designated space for jam sessions. Dining rooms with high ceilings and bare
floors often provide excellent acoustics for music. Complement the space with a high-tech audio system and sound baffling panels for those who plan to record.
Home office Hybrid work is a permanent fixture in today’s career landscape. A dining room located near the front of the home presents a prime location for a professional workspace. Replace a table with a sleek executive desk. An existing buffet or sideboard can be repurposed as printer storage or for filing. Consider adding French doors or partitions to provide privacy without compromising on light flow.
Homework zone
Active families may need to transform the dining room into a homework lab that offers a quiet space for educational pursuits. Organized cabinetry can house school materials, craft supplies, and much more, confining it all to one room. Locating the computer in the space creates a centralized “safe” spot for internet browsing and monitoring young children in the process.
Dining spaces may be going the way of the dinosaur, reflecting modern homeowners’ preferences for more flexible and useful spaces. (MC)
A Guide to Growing Thriving Plants Indoors
Lush greenery can add a sense of calm to many homes and bringing it indoors can help transform nearly any room into a relaxing oasis.
Whether you're a seasoned plant parent or just beginning your indoor gardening journey, this guide can help you get started — and succeed in — growing healthy plants indoors.
Choose the Right Plants
Not all houseplants are created equal, and the first step toward a flourishing indoor garden is picking plants that align with your home's conditions.
If your home has several bright and sunny rooms, light-loving varieties will likely thrive. For shadier spots, look for low-light tolerant plants, which are often easier to care for and more forgiving.
Provide Adequate Light
Most houseplants prefer bright, indirect light — that soft glow when positioned just inside a window. However, some can tolerate lower light levels.
If natural sunlight is limited where you live, consider grow lights that mimic the sun's spectrum and help plants keep their color and strong growth without plenty of daylight.
Avoid Overwatering
Too much water can lead to root rot and is one of the most common mistakes even the most experienced gardeners make. Rather than watering on a strict schedule, check the soil first. If the top inch is dry, it's usually time to give your plant a drink. Add warm or room-temperature water until you see moisture come out of the pot's drainage holes then let the soil dry before watering again.
Consider the Soil, Pot and Growth Space
Use a high-quality potting mix designed for indoor plants along with pots featuring proper drainage. If you prefer decorative planters without holes, consider placing your plant in a smaller pot inside the decorative one to ensure proper drainage.
As plants grow, they may need repotted to give their roots room to spread and continue healthy growth.
Nourish During the Growing Season
Plants use more nutrients in spring and summer, so feed them with a balanced, diluted fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during active months.
In fall and winter, most indoor plants grow more slowly and need less feeding. Also remember to regularly
prune dead or yellowing leaves to help plants focus on new growth. Find more tips and guidance
to help your indoor plants thrive at eLivingtoday.com. (Feature Impact)
Combating Exercise Boredom So You Can Win
Exercise is essential for good health. But it can be challenging to find the motivation to get moving. It is easy to cite a lack of time for a failure to exercise, but boredom also might be to blame. Harvard Health says any activity can become tedious psychologically, even if a person knows it will benefit them physically.
Boredom may not just lead to lack of exercise, it could be a cause of injury while exercising. The Mayo Clinic says as a person gets bored with a fitness routine, it is easier to skip, take shortcuts with stretching or use poor form. Doing any of these things can increase the risk of injury.
Combating exercise boredom may need to be part of managing fitness regimens, and the following are some ways to stay engaged with your routine.
Change your environment Adding variety to an exercise routine may come down to moving the activity to a new location. If you’re used to the gym or a workout room in your garage, try moving out-
doors. If you’ve grown tired of a particular fitness machine at the gym, move to a new one.
Try a new activity Swap out a typical activity for a new one. For example, if you’re accustomed to running on the treadmill, opt for cycling instead.
Consider a “10-10-10” workout. A 10-10-10 workout involves swapping out activities every 10 minutes. This brief change of scenery can help the minutes fly by.
Alter your fitness schedule Sometimes changing when your exercise schedule can be as effective as changing the activities. If you typically work out in the evening, wake up early and do a morning workout for a change of pace.
Get a buddy A workout partner can make it easier to stay accountable and transform working out into a social activity that is more fun. You may look forward to your time spent together and forget that exercise is involved.
Shorten the workout You may not have to work out hours on end to see results. In fact, most health experts say all that’s needed is 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise and two days of strength training per week to stay healthy. That comes down to 30 minutes a day, five days a week, plus extra time to build strength.
Mixing up a routine can help to stem the boredom that can set in. (MC)
FAQs About Modern EVs
Motorists who spend a lot of time behind the wheel have undoubtedly noticed the growing number of electric vehicles traversing the roadways. Once a relatively rare sight, EVs are growing in popularity, and one need look no further than the nearest highway for evidence of that trend.
The sight of an EV on the road may spark some curiosity in drivers who have never before driven such vehicles. Some drivers may even ponder purchasing an EV when the time comes to replace their existing vehicles. With that in mind, here are some interesting characteristics of modern EVs.
The EV Market is Booming
Drivers’ eyes are not fooling them, as there are, in fact, significantly more EVs on the road today than there were as recently as eight years ago. Data from the International Energy Agency indicates that there were 114,000 battery electric and plug-in electric car registrations in 2015, a figure that rose to 295,000 by 2020. And the United States is lagging far behind regarding EV registrations, which totaled just under 1.4 million in 2020.
EV Purchases are Incentivized
The IEA reports that governments across the world spent $14 billion on direct purchase incentives and tax deductions for electric cars in 2020. That marks a 25% year-on-year increase.
EV Offerings Have Diversified
Though buyers outside the United States have more options than buyers in the U.S., the EV market has still diversified to provide drivers with more options than in years past. The IEA reports that worldwide roughly 370 electric car models were available in 2020. That marks a 40% increase from 2019.
Though supply chain issues may affect the availability of EVs in certain regions of the world, there’s no denying that EV manufacturers offer significantly more options to modern buyers than they did in years past.
Batteries Last a Long Time
The automotive experts at J.D. Power note that EV batteries generally last between 10 and 20 years. Certain variables affect the life expectancy of EV batteries, which explains the significant gap in the J.D. Power estimate. Drivers who live in areas where extreme weather, such as excessive heat and frigid cold, is the norm, may not get as many years out of their EV batteries as those who live in consistently moderate climates. And though the driving range of EV batteries varies, the Credit Union of Southern California indicates drivers can expect to get an average of 250 miles in a single charge.
EVs are increasingly noticeable on roadways across the globe. That growing popularity reflects changes in the industry that have made it more feasible than ever to own an EV. (MC)
Like our popular full-size Honeybells, Mini Honeybells are packed with rich avor and juicy goodness, but come in a size that ts in the palm of your hand. While “bell” is in their name and they’re part of the Honeybell family, Minis don’t always fully develop into a bell shape. But we can assure you they don’t lack in quality or taste! Rare Hale Honeybells are available in limited quantities for a limited time! Pre-order now to reserve your share of this year’s crop with this delicious deal!
FINANCE Understanding Different Types of Savings Accounts
Adults typically open savings accounts as part of a healthy financial strategy. But reports suggest that conventional strategy isn’t providing as much security as it once did. Only 46% of adults have enough saved in an emergency fund to cover three months of living expenses, according to Bankrate.
Although exact numbers vary by survey, it’s estimated that around 57 to 86% of Americans have savings accounts.
Consumers may want to give further thought to opening savings accounts, which are secure and low-risk storage vehicles for their money. Savings accounts provide easy access to funds for emergencies and financial goals, and also help to build financial discipline by keeping money separate from the funds used for daily expenses. Different types of savings accounts serve unique purposes.
Traditional savings account Traditional savings accounts are typically offered by brick-and-mortar banking locations. They are easy to open, but generally do not pay much in interest. Bankrate says that as of September 2025, the average annual percentage yield of traditional savings accounts was 0.63. Some traditional savings accounts come with fees, including charges for excessive transactions or falling below a minimum balance.
High-yield savings account These accounts are similar to traditional savings accounts but the interest rates are much higher. As of 2025, the highest interest rates on savings accounts was around 4%. Online-only banks often have the highest yielding savings
accounts because they don’t have the overhead that brick-and-mortar institutions must account for. It may be more challenging to move money in and out of high-yield accounts, as that may only be possible through wire or electronic transfers.
Money market account With an MMA, customers typically earn a higher interest rate than traditional savings accounts. An MMA enables people to earn higher interest rates, enjoy greater liquidity through check writing or debit card access, and has higher minimum balance requirements.
Certificate of deposit Investopedia notes a CD requires a person to leave their money with the bank for a predetermined period of time in exchange for a fixed interest rate. This range of time may be anywhere from a month to five years or longer. A person cannot withdraw the funds before the term ends without paying a penalty. This is not the place for emergency funds, but it can help earn a higher interest rate for money a person doesn’t need right now.
Savings accounts can enable people to put away funds for a variety of purposes and have them at the ready when they are needed. (MC)
Pitfalls that Can Compromise Dog Training
Dogs are not just pets, they often become cherished family members who share in all of the joys and accomplishments of a household. Training a dog that’s new to a home can be deeply rewarding, but various pitfalls can slow the progress of training and potentially contribute to confusion or even lead to behavioral problems.
Pet parents can get a leg up on what can go wrong and why, and adjust to help make the training process go more smoothly.
Problem #1: Inconsistency
Everyone in the family may want to take part in training the new pet and this can create confusion if everyone isn’t on the same page. People who use different commands or allow different behaviors may confuse the dog.
To fix the issue, it’s important that everyone use the same commands and consistently reinforce the same rules. It’s not alright for the dog to jump up on the furniture when the rule is no furniture lounging, for example.
Problem #2: Poor reward timing
Rewarding dogs for good behavior is one of the hallmarks of positive reinforcement training. However, rewarding or correcting the pet even a few seconds too late can mean the animal may not connect the feedback to the action.
It’s important to deliver rewards or corrections within one to two seconds of the desired behavior for the best results. Leerburg Training suggests using marker training, also known as clicker training, which affords trainers a way to immediately communicate with the dog the instant they do something favorable.
Withholding the click/mark, tells the dog that you don’t like what they are doing without any punishment.
Problem #3: Overusing punishment
Positive reinforcement is the best method of training a dog, and the one that most professional trainers rely on. Still, it can be challenging to avoid yelling or using aversive tools to try to stop a behavior if other methods are slow to work.
However, hitting an animal, yelling excessively or using shock collars can create fear or aggression. In some instances, such tactics may border on animal abuse.
Advanced Canine Techniques says that dogs can sense a human’s energy level and confidence and any negative energy, which can be discouraging and adversely affect motivation. Taking a break while training until it can be more fun and positive may stem stress and negative behaviors for both dog and person.
Problem #4: Unclear commands
It’s important that everyone utilize the same commands when training a dog. Saying “come here” one day and
Problem #5: Inconsistent results
Many have dogs that behave wonderfully while in the house, but poorly at a dog park or elsewhere. A dog may not realize that commands and behavior expectations apply everywhere. That’s why it is necessary to practice in different environments and only periodically introduce distractions.
“get over here” another can be confusing and result in slower learning. Dogs may respond better to visual cues along with verbal ones, so people can utilize hand gestures when setting commands as well.
It’s also important to know that a dog that is bored may exhibit restlessness or destructive behavior and won’t be able to focus during training. Meeting the dog’s physical needs first can help when training comes afterwards. After all is said and done, if training is not going as expected, consult a professional trainer for assistance. (MC)
PUZZLES
SOLUTIONS
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
On Socialism
I wonder if Gerald Staack (letters, Jan. 3) would have the same attitude toward democratic socialism if he was a billionaire.
I’m not saying Mr. Staack is poor, he might simply be phenomenally compassionate, but it’s easier to tout the virtues of socialism when you don’t have hard-earned billions to protect from the hungry claws of the government.
And yet, I’m not saying that socialism is a bad thing. It takes a lot of money to run a country, but how much do we give and what do we get in return?
Ah-ha!
As for billionaires, it’s not that they need that much money (nobody does), but who in his right mind would happily hand it over to the government after working so hard to earn it given the government’s reputation for inefficiency, waste and abuse?
And that, I think, is the real rub.
The government is run by people ... people who are greedy, selfish and stupid.
I wonder if Mr. Staack has a solution for THAT problem?
Arthur Saginian Santa Clarita
Submit a Letter to the Editor
Include name, address & phone.
E-mail: letters@signalscv.com.
Mail: Letters to the Editor, The Signal, 25060 Avenue Stanford, Suite 141, Santa Clarita, CA 91355.
Anonymous letters are not published. READER LETTERS
Truth and Society’s Consequences
By David Hegg
Several recent events have led pundits and observers to label certain actions “unconscionable.” The word defines what is considered unreasonable, wrong, or blatantly excessive. To engage in “unconscionable” activity is to go beyond the restraints of a reasonable person’s conscience. It is also code for what someone considers reprehensible that needs to be destroyed.
The assumption is there is a “societal conscience” that sets the standard for reasonable behavior. Those not aligned with the “societal conscience” are guilty of doing what is “unconscionable.” This raises two essential questions: Who gets to define “societal conscience,” and more importantly, who gets to inform and shape it ethically and morally?
Here’s my attempt to do so. First, as I’ve written previously, the conscience is like an alarm clock. It acts on whatever information is input. Like the clock, the human conscience acts according to the information it is given. You set the clock, you shape the conscience, and both will act accordingly.
Second, given that a conscience needs to be “set,” what do we do when opposing worldviews attempt to “set” it, to input their conflicting ideological data? It is clear that the war of conflicting worldviews is raging between those who define “reasonable” as aligned with propositional truth, and those who define it according to their desires. Our national conscience is being hijacked by those so addicted to personal happiness and political power, they brazenly replace truth and integrity with spin and expediency. They proclaim politicized anti-science as actual science and declare that those opposing their progressive ideology are on the wrong side of history. But if history is the referee, it will be clear most of the “new” ideology is baseless. The truth is, those who believe a mutilated biological male can become a female are on the wrong side of genetics. Those who insist one’s nature is determined by skin color are on the wrong side of biology and psychology. Those who proclaim that unrestrained sexual activity paves the road to happiness are on the wrong side of sociology, whose experts have proven that the erosion of the nuclear family is a primary cause of myriad personal and societal challenges. And those who have excised God from their world and attempt to do so for the rest of us are not only ignorant of human religious history, but also the historic concept of religious pluralism. More importantly,
if those who have pushed God to the margin and then off the page persist in their unbelief, they will find themselves on the wrong side of God for all eternity. Simply put, these progressive reformers are a weak and intellectually stunted minority masquerading as the powerful, intelligent forces who insist we conform to their words and ways even as they work aggressively to “re-set” our societal conscience, and cancel all who refuse to align. They champion their “woke” status but are actually hoping the rest of us stay asleep. At the same time, they go about replacing reality with the language of absurdity, our national honor with deep-seated self-condemnation, and our belief in God with the irrational insistence that we are only material beings, the product of chemical processes, devoid of an immaterial soul, and destined to live in a world where life sucks and then you die.
No thanks! I am on this Earth for something much better, much more useful and purposeful. I am here, and so are you, to build our beliefs on what is factual, not fanciful, and live out honorable values that benefit all, rather than contribute to an ideology designed to radicalize and divide our citizenry. Integrity dictates that those who recognize a problem should present a possible solution. Here’s mine. It will not be hard to reject and replace the aggressive and absurd ideology that human nature is determined by skin color, that genetic sexuality can be authentically changed, that spending billions on a problem is a win even when the problem has increased exponentially. Their worst lie is that true freedom is found in replacing God with self. No, it will not be hard. We can do it if we lift our voices en masse, shouting “the emperor has no clothes!”
For too long, the reasonable, intelligent majority have been afraid to say “he’s naked” for fear of being canceled. But truth shines brightly, and those who overcome fear and silence to proclaim it have the most power because truth is on their side. Truth will never be eclipsed, either by the opposition of its enemies or poor behavior of its friends. My prayer is we will never settle for a counterfeit narrative, no matter how it is dressed up; that we will not allow fear to overwhelm what our consciences know is good and right and essential to our wellbeing, and that of our children and our children’s children.
Local resident David Hegg is senior pastor of Grace Baptist Church. “Ethically Speaking” appears Sundays.
