SundaySignal_071926

SundaySignal

JULY 19, 2026

Your News, Entertainment & Lifestyle Source

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VENTURA COUNTY FUN

15

HOW TO COMBAT MUSCLE LOSS

17

CREATING A DEDICATED BACKYARD GAME SPACE

| : CITY NEWS | OPINION | HOME | ENTERTAINMENT | SENIORS | HEALTH & FITNESS

2 · SUNDAYSIGNAL

JULY 19, 2026

TABLE OF CONTENTS

NEWS FEATURES

4

FROM THE CITY MANAGER

8

FOOD

9

ENTERTAINMENT HEALTH

10 11

GARDENING

12

HOME

13

CAREERS

14

SENIOR LIVING

15

PUZZLES OPINION

18 19

4 Ventura County Summer Fun 6 Be Heat Aware 7 Explore the North Coast Foodie Scene 16 Create a Dedicated Backyard Game Space 8

Turning Feedback into Action

9

Solve Summer Hunger Peanut Butter Toast with Celery and Grapes Dill Pickle Dip

11 Upgrading Your Health and Wellness Routine 12 Build a Beautiful Backyard Garden 13 Budget-Friendly Bedroom Upgrades 14 Vocational and Trade Schools 15 Combating Muscle Loss

19 David Hegg SINCE 1919

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Richard Budman Doña Uhrig Tim Whyte

Publisher Sunday Signal Editor Signal Editor

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Maureen Daniels • Walter Portillo • Chris Llanos 25060 Avenue Stanford, Suite 141 | Valencia, CA 91355 661-259-1234 The entire content of the Sunday Signal is copyrighted 2026 by Paladin Multi-Media Group, Inc. All submitted letters and columns are strictly the opinions of the authors and not necessarily those of the publisher. All rights are reserved and no part of this publication may be reproduced without written permission of the publisher. If you would not like this delivered to your home, please call (661) 259-1000.

J U LY 19, 2026

S U N D AY S I G N A L · 3

F E AT U R E

Ventura County is Alive with Summer Fun

By Michele E. Buttelman Sunday Signal Staff Writer

V

entura County is alive with fun and festive events this summer. Not only is it a quick drive for Santa Clarita Valley residents, Ventura County usually offers cooler weather and less crowded beaches for easy day trips.

Tropical Steel Drum Sundays Ventura Harbor Village, 1583 Spinnaker Dr., Ventura 93001 www.venturaharborvillage.com/ events Steal Drum Sundays are free to attend, family-friendly and offer an oceanfront ambiance but go quick as the final show is July 26.

Enjoy the perfect coastal day with live Steel Drum tunes from 1-4 p.m. on the Promenade Stage at Ventura Harbor Village.

After enjoying the show, explore the Village’s collection of charming boutiques, specialty stores and artisan gal-

leries, walk the promenade inspect the boats before heading across the street to the beach.

Throwback Thursdays Food Truck Festival

July 23 and Aug. 20, 5-8 p.m.

201 Camarillo Ranch Rd., Camarillo 93012 Info bit.ly/3RAC7Ts Come to Camarillo Ranch to unwind your day with good eats, craft brews and wines in a picture perfect setting. Attendees can enjoy live music and ranch tours. Bring the furry ones too. Just be sure they’re on a leash.

Summer Concert Series Live Entertainment Under the Stars

Saturdays, July 25 and Aug. 8, 7-9 p.m.

601 Carmen Dr., Camarillo 93010 Info www.pvrpd.org/summerconcert-series-2026 Bring your friends and family to Constitution Park for a free evening of live bands and great food. Bring your picnic blankets, lawn chairs and good

Dallas Cowboys Training Camp The Dallas Cowboys will return to Oxnard for its 2026 training camp. The public is invited to attend and watch their favorite players and coaches. Admission is free. Photo Courtesy Visit Oxnard.

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vibes and chill to the sounds of summer. Arrive early to secure the best seating.

On Saturday, July 25 enjoy the Blue Breeze Band, a live music performance featuring vocalists and musicians dressed in white, with a saxophonist and a blend of Motown, R&B, Soul, Funk and Contemporary hits.

On Saturday, Aug. 8 enjoy The Yellow Brick Band. This band has been rocking down the yellow brick road since 2018 and continues to deliver California’s most authentic tribute to the music of Elton John.

Dallas Cowboys Training Camp

July 29 – Aug. 18 River Ridge Playing Fields, 2501 N. Ventura Rd., Oxnard 93036 Info www.dallascowboys.com/training-camp Dallas Cowboys Training Camp returns to River Ridge Playing Fields in Oxnard for their 20th year. Many practices will be open to the public, giving visitors, residents and guests the opportunity to see their favorite players and coaches train for the upcoming season. Admission to camp is free. Gates usually open for practices two hours before scheduled practice session.

Admission is free. Arrive early.

Entry is first come first serve until capacity is reached. Be sure to check out the special fan experiences. Parking is $20/day per vehicle.

Open practice starts at 11:45 unless noted otherwise.

Wednesday, July 29 First Open Practice Thursday, July 30 Open Practice Friday, July 31 Oxnard Fan Night hosted by Visit Oxnard at Collection

Park 4-6 p.m.

Saturday, Aug. 1 Opening Ceremony.

Doors open at 9:15 a.m. with opening ceremony at 11:15 a.m.and practice at 11:45 a.m.

Monday, Aug. 3 Open Practice Tuesday, Aug. 4 Open Practice Thursday, Aug. 6 Heroes Appreciation Day Saturday, Aug. 8 Open Practice Sunday, Aug. 9 Open Practice Thursday, Aug. 13 Open Practice Friday, Aug. 14 Open Practice Monday, Aug.17 Open Practice Tuesday, Aug. 18 Open Practice with New Orleans Saints 2 p.m.

Fifth Annual All for One Classic Car Show

Sunday, July 26 10 a.m.-3 p.m.

200 S. A St., Oxnard 93030 Info downtownoxnard.org/car-show Downtown Oxnard’s classic car show is free for spectators. Enjoy classic cars, customs, low riders and restorations from all eras that will be judged in seven classes with prizes to top finalists.

Over 400 classic and specialty autos from all eras will be showing along a four-block stretch of Historic “A” Street.

The car show is located within walking distance from the Amtrak station, restaurants and shops in Historic Downtown Oxnard.

39th Annual A Taste of Camarillo

Sunday, July 26, 1-4 p.m.

201 Camarillo Ranch Rd., Camarillo 93012 Info tasteofcamarillo.com Spend an afternoon under the trees of the Camarillo Ranch sampling fine wines, craft brews, spirits and gourmet foods. Enjoy live entertainment JULY 19, 2026

F E AT U R E

Wings Over Camarillo. Experience once of California’s premium air shows. Pilot Stephanie Goetz is one of the elite pilots of The Pink Jet, promoting breast cancer awareness and early detection. Also see performers soar across the sky, view hundreds of aircraft, chat with pilots and experience some hands-on learning at the STEM Pavilion. Photos Courtesy Visit Camarillo

and boutique shopping. Sample from old favorites and boutique wineries, a medley of beer varietals, fine spirits and Ventura County restaurants. Get a little country with line dancing by Kristal Lynn.

General Admission tickets are $135 each.

Ventura County Fair

July 29-Aug. 9 Ventura County Fairgrounds, 10 W. Harbor Blvd., Ventura 93001 Info venturacountyfair.org The Ventura County Fair is an annual summer event at the Ventura County Fairgrounds featuring carnival rides, live concerts, agricultural exhibits, and fair food. It offers a classic fair experience with a beachside atmosphere, including livestock, art/craft exhibits and special promotion days for discounts. Free concerts are held at the Toyota Grandstand Stage.

Tickets for admission and carnival rides are available online. It’s recommended to use offsite parking and shuttles to avoid congestion. A clear bag policy is in effect for guest safety.

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2026 Wings Over Camarillo Air Show

Saturday, Aug.15-Sunday, Aug.16 Camarillo Airport 555 Airport Way, Camarillo Info wingsovercamarillo.com Experience California’s premier air show. Witness high-speed aerial acrobatics, live performances, captivating displays and exhilarating helicopter and airplane rides.

Enjoy a car show, explore the veterans hangar, witness historical reenactments, marvel at a robotics demonstration and more.

This year’s air show theme is “Celebrating 90 Years of the DC-3 – A Legend That Changed the World.”

For information about Helicopter/Airplane Rides visit wingsovercamarillo.com/airplanehelicopter-rides.

For information on air show tickets visit tickets.wingsovercamarillo.com.

A variety of VIP experiences are also available. Visit the website for details about the VIP Chalet with flightline preview or the Gooney Bird Lounge. 

The TBT Food Truck Festival will be held Thursday, July 23 and Aug. 20 at Camarillo Ranch in Camarillo. Photo Courtesy Camarillo Ranch.

S U N D AY S I G N A L · 5

F E AT U R E

This Summer Be Heat Aware, Especially Seniors

By Michele E. Buttelman Sunday Signal Staff Writer

S

ummer is here and recent high temperatures have seen the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health issue several hot weather advisories.

L.A. Public Health has collaborated with the Los Angeles Regional Collaborative for Climate Action and Sustainability to launch the HeatSafe.LA campaign to education Southern California residents on the dangers of high temperatures.

LARC is a network of local governments, regional agencies, non-profit organizations, businesses, utilities and academics working together to advance climate mitigation.

Visit the HeatSafe.LA website for more information on how to keep you and your family heat safe this summer.

Seniors and Heat

According to AARP, statistics show that older adults account for a disproportionate share of heat-related emergency visits and fatalities during summer months.

Individuals over age 65 do not adjust as readily to sudden temperature spikes compared to younger people, making rapid-onset heatwaves especially dangerous for seniors.

Seniors are significantly more prone to heat-related deaths because their bodies are less efficient at regulating temperature. Aging causes sweat glands to produce less moisture and stiffened blood vessels limit blood flow to radiate heat away from vital organs.

Heat Aware LA advises seniors to stay indoors during peak heat hours,10 a.m. to 3 p.m., drink plenty of fluids even if not thirsty and seek air-conditioned spaces such as libraries, shopping malls or cooling centers.

The SCV Senior Center (27180 Golden Valley Rd.) regularly operates as a designated cooling center during extreme heat events. When activated the facility offers a free, air-conditioned space for anyone to escape the heat, along with complimentary drinking water.

The Senior Center is open Monday-Friday, 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Check out its scheduled events and have fun as you keep cool. For more information about programs at the SCV Senior Center visit www.

scvseniorcenter.org.

There are also five libraries and the Valencia Town Center where seniors can find places to stay cool.

The three Santa Clarita libraries are open Monday -Thursday from 9 a.m.-8 p.m.; Friday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; and Sunday from 1-5 p.m.

The Canyon Country Jo Anne Darcy Branch is located at 18601 Soledad Canyon Rd. The Old Town Newhall Branch is at 24500 Main St. The Valencia Branch is located at 23743 W. Valencia Blvd.

Valencia Town Center is located at 24201 W Valencia Blvd. and is open Monday -Thursday from 10: a.m. to 8 p.m.; Friday – Saturday from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.; and Sunday from 11 a.m.-7 p.m.

There are also two Los Angeles County libraries in the SCV and they are open Monday-Thursday 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Friday and Saturday 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. They are closed on Sundays.

The Castaic Library is at 27971 Sloan Canyon Rd. and the Stevenson Ranch Library is at 25950 The Old Road.

Seniors are significantly more prone to heat-related deaths because their bodies are less efficient at regulating temperature. ©ADOBESTOCK

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JULY 19, 2026

F E AT U R E

Pregnant Women and Infants

The SCV is home to many young families and according to the Centers for Disease Control, pregnant women and infants are highly susceptible to extreme heat because their bodies struggle to regulate core temperature.

Pregnant women have increased metabolic demands and cardiovascular stress, while infants have immature sweat glands and a high surface-area-tobody-mass ratio.

Toddlers are also highly vulnerable to extreme heat because their bodies heat up three to five times faster than adults and have a higher metabolic rate and fewer sweat glands.

Protect infants and toddlers from overheating by limiting direct sun exposure, dressing them in lightweight, breathable layers and increasing hydration.

Always supervise sleep environments, avoid draping blankets over car seats which restricts airflow and never leave a child alone in a parked vehicle.

Heatstroke Risks

Everyone is at risk for heatstroke when temperatures rise, however those at increased risk include people with heart disease, lung conditions, or obesity, as well as individuals taking medications like diuretics, beta-blockers, or certain psychiatric drugs.

Heatstroke is a life-threatening medical emergency requiring immediate 911 intervention.

Symptoms include: Extremely High Body Temperature A core body temperature above 104°F. Altered Mental State or Behavior Confusion, agitation, slurred speech, delirium, seizures, or a coma can occur.

Skin Changes The skin may feel hot, flushed and dry to the touch. However, if brought on by strenuous exercise, the skin might remain profuse with sweat.

Rapid Heart and Breathing Rate Racing pulse and fast, shallow breathing.

Neurological and Physical Symptoms Nausea and vomiting and a severe throbbing headache.

Working in the Heat

According to HeatSafe.LA if you work outside or

J U LY 19, 2026

inside without AC, you’re at risk for heat-related illness.

Here are guidelines to follow at the workplace: • If you work outside, employers are required to provide shade when temperatures are over 80°F. • If you work inside, employers must provide access to at least one cool-down area kept below 82°F. • Employers must allow workers who ask for a cooldown rest period to take one.

• Outdoor workers often arrive at work dehydrated.

Start and end every day with plenty of fluids.

• Drink a cup of water every 20 minutes, even if you are not thirsty.

• Apply cool compresses around your neck and under your arms.

• Rest in a cool environment like a shaded area, air-conditioned room or car.

For more information visit dir.ca.gov/dosh/ heatillnessinfo.html.

Keep Your Cool Tips for keeping your home as cool as possible: • The United States Department of Energy reports strategically planted trees can reduce air conditioning needs by 20-50% depending on placement and climate.

• Block out sunlight with curtains and shades.

• Use kitchen and bathroom exhaust fans to blow heat and humidity outside.

• Set ceiling fans to run counterclockwise.

• Indoor plants can cool your home and make you more comfortable in the heat.

• Use energy-saving light bulbs that don’t give off waste heat.

• Check insulation and seal any gaps in windows and doors.

• Set the AC thermostat to 78ºF when home and 85ºF when away.

• Keep hydrated with cool drinks.

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GRAPHICS ©HEATSAFE.LA

S U N D AY S I G N A L · 7

FROM THE CITY MANAGER

Turning Feedback into Action

By Ken Striplin Santa Clarita City Manager

L

istening to residents is important — but acting on what we hear is what truly makes a difference. In Santa Clarita, community feedback doesn’t sit on a shelf. It helps shape the City’s priorities, guides our investments and influences the decisions that impact residents every day.

Every two years, the City conducts a comprehensive Public Opinion Poll to better understand what matters most to the people who call Santa Clarita home.

This year’s survey of 1,194 registered voters provides more than statistics — it provides direction. It helps ensure that the decisions we make, the projects we prioritize and the dollars we invest reflect the needs and expectations of our community.

The results are encouraging. Residents

continue to rate Santa Clarita as one of the best places to live, raise a family and enjoy a high quality of life. That doesn’t happen by accident. Under the leadership of our City Council, it is the result of decades of thoughtful planning, sound financial management and a commitment to investing in the things that matter most.

The survey also confirmed that our top priorities are your top priorities: traffic, growth and public safety.

Those priorities are reflected throughout the City’s work. We continue investing in major roadway improvements, including the Dockweiler Drive Extension, Via Princessa Extension and intersection enhancements that improve traffic flow and prepare our community for the future. At the same time, we remain committed to maintaining Santa Clarita’s reputation as one of the safest cities in the

nation through strong partnerships with the Los Angeles County Sheriff ’s Department and Los Angeles County Fire Department.

Listening to residents also means continuing to invest in the quality of life that makes Santa Clarita unique. From the opening of The Rink Sports Pavilion and improvements at David March Park to the Haskell Canyon Bike Park, future Via Princessa Park and enhancements to Newhall Park, we are creating amenities that families will enjoy for generations.

The survey also reinforces something we value deeply — trust. Residents continue to place greater trust in the City than in federal, state or county government, and those who interacted with City staff overwhelmingly described them as professional, accessible and helpful. That trust is earned every day through transparency, fiscal responsibility and excep-

tional customer service.

While the Public Opinion Poll is an important tool, it is just one way we listen. Whether it’s through community meetings, social media, neighborhood conversations or everyday interactions with staff, resident feedback continues to shape the future of Santa Clarita.

Our goal has never been to simply hear what residents have to say. It’s to act on it.

When your priorities become our priorities, we build a stronger and safer community together.

To view the complete 2026 Public Opinion Poll results, visit SantaClarita. gov/PublicOpinionPoll.

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

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8 · SUNDAYSIGNAL

JULY 19, 2026

FOOD

Solve Summer Hunger with Fresh Produce and Family-Favorite Snacks

B

ouncing from activity to activity and event to event this summer is bound to lead to bouts of hunger. To help keep your loved ones going amidst the hustle and bustle of pool days, baseball games and road trips, turn to filling snacks that curb appetites.

Fresh, nutritious produce can transform afternoon pickme-ups into moments of celebration. For example, Dandy Celery from Duda Farm Fresh Foods offers exceptional sweetness, crispiness and consistency in Peanut Butter Toast with Celery and Grapes. A familiar, kid-friendly favorite, this sweet-and-savory combination provides a pleasing crunch from lightly toasted bread, celery and grapes paired with soft, warm peanut butter.

Fit for sharing with family and friends, Dill Pickle Dip is ready with the snap of a finger so you can serve a crowd without the hassle. Serve with crackers and celery for an easy solution whether you're hosting a backyard barbecue, tagging along for a tailgate or enjoying a slow afternoon

Peanut Butter Toast with Celery and Grapes Prep time 5 minutes Cook time 2 minutes Servings 2 2-3 tablespoons creamy peanut butter 2 slices cinnamon-raisin bread, toasted

with your nearest and dearest.

These simple snacks and more delicious summer dishes can be at the heart of your menu when made with Dandy fresh-cut vegetables from Duda Farm Fresh Foods, a leading, trusted American grower and processor of fresh vegetables that's celebrating its 100th anniversary in 2026. Marking a century of leadership in celery innovation, family farming, industry leadership and sustainable growth, it's spent six generations refining its approach to growing, harvesting and delivering high-quality fresh produce.

From its early adoption of advanced farming practices to the development of Dill Pickle Dip fresh-cut solutions and waterjet cutting technology, the 100-year-old company has maintained a steady focus on improving flavor, efficiency and satisfaction.

"Reaching 100 years is a milestone we owe to our dedicated team, strong industry partnerships and commitment to innovation," said Mark Bassetti, president of Duda Farm

5-6 seedless red grapes, halved 1-2 Dandy celery sticks, sliced diagonal 1 tablespoon granola 1 teaspoon maple syrup kale, mustard greens or arugula (optional)

Spread peanut butter evenly over surface of toasted bread.

Top with grapes and sliced celery.

Sprinkle with granola and drizzle with maple syrup. Top with kale, mustard greens or arugula, if desired.

Dill Pickle Dip

Peanut Butter Toast with Celery and Grapes J U LY 19, 2026

Prep time 5 minutes Cook time 5 minutes Servings 6 8 ounces cream cheese 1/2 cup dill pickles, finely chopped, plus additional for garnish 1/4 cup Dandy Celery, finely chopped, plus additional for garnish 3 tablespoons pickle juice 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped

Fresh Foods. "As we honor our 100year legacy, we remain focused on growing the future through innovation, sustainability and family values."

For more summer snack ideas visit DudaFresh.com.

1/4 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon pepper crackers, for serving Dandy Celery Dippers, for serving

Breadcrumb Topping 1 teaspoon butter 3 tablespoons panko crumbs Allow cream cheese to soften about 20 minutes outside of refrigerator.

While cream cheese is softening, prepare breadcrumb topping. In pan over medium heat, stir butter and breadcrumbs until fully combined. Breadcrumbs will toast in 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat once toasted, as desired.

In bowl, mix softened cream cheese, 1/2 cup pickles, 1/4 cup celery, pickle juice, dill, salt and pepper until fully combined. Transfer to serving bowl.

Before serving, sprinkle dip with cooled, toasted breadcrumbs and additional pickles and celery.

Serve with crackers and celery dippers. (Feature Impact)  S U N D AY S I G N A L · 9

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

The Latest News on What’s Happening In Hollywood

episodes from 1994-1997. Then Kate good deeds to mention, but you get the drift!

McKinnon took over as Ms. Fizzle’s ollywood insiders reveal On the work front, Reeves just lent younger sister in the 2017 Netflix sethat Keanu Reeves is his voice to “Toy Story 5” as Duke ries for 30 episodes. one of the kindest and Caboom and “Sonic the Hedgehog 4” Banks has been starring in Peacock’s most philanthropic actors (due in March 2027). He’s following series “The Miniature Wife” since in the industry. He established a prithese films up with the black comApril. She also stars in the psychologivate unnamed fund to support a chil- edy “The Entertainment System Is cal thriller “DreamQuil” with John C. dren’s hospital and cancer research.

Down,” co-starring Kirsten Dunst.

Reilly and Sofia Boutella. And she’ll He frequently defers percentages of He’s also teaming up with “Toy Story again be hosting the game show “Press res • Santa Clarita Signal adsource@exhibitorads.com his back-end earnings or takes pay 4” director Josh Cooley for a new hyYour Luck,” which premiered its sevp. 888.737.2812 f. 203.438.1206 ” cuts to ensure that producers can hire brid “Lego” movie, and he’s currententh season on July 9. other stars and balance their budgets. ly shooting the sci-fi survival thriller Not to be left out is “Sesame te: Sunday-Thursday, July 19-23, 2026 Reeves also gave $50 million of his “Shiver.” The latter will be directed by Street,” who’s getting the Netflix film ivery “Matrix” date: 7/14/2026 earnings to special effects “Deadpool’s” Tim Miller for an August treatment after a bidding war against and makeup staffs. He gifted Harley 2027 release date.

Universal. Netflix stepped in and resDavidson motorcycles to the 12-perElizabeth Banks is set to star as cued “Sesame Street” from extincson stunt team of “The Matrix.” He Ms. Fizzle in a film adaptation of the tion when PBS funds were cut by the gave Rolex watches to the martial arts PBS series “The Magic School Bus.” White House. Also, the streaming serand stunt crews on the “John Wick” Lily Tomlin was the voice of Ms. Fizzle vice is reviving “Ghostbusters” as an in the animated series that ran for 52 films. There are far too many more animated series called “Ghostbusters: Night Shift.” It’ll be set in New York City in 1994.

I’m old-fashioned and prefer the TM movies from MGM, Warner Bros. and Columbia Pictures on the TCM channel than all this animation that’s being 22500 Lyons Ave. Bringing the Finest in Film to the SCV! info Line 310.478.3836 served up!

Ron Howard has let it be known THE ODYSSEY E Sun: 10:00 1:00 2:00 6:00 7:00; Mon to Thu: 1:00 2:00 6:00 7:00 The film brings Homer’s foundational saga to IMAX® film screens for the first time and opens in theaters everywhere on July 17, 2026. that he’s preparing to direct a sequel EVIL DEAD BURN E Sun: 10:00 1:10 4:10 7:10; Mon to Wed: 1:10 4:10 7:10; Thu: 4:10 PM to the classic film “How the Grinch EVIL DEAD BURN unleashes the franchise’s most savage and terrifying ride to date, blazing onto big screens with an all-new chapter of Stole Christmas” (2000), for which my carnage and demonic mayhem.

GAIL DAUGHTRY AND THE CELEBRITY SEX PASS E 4:40 PM friend Gail Ryan and Rick Baker won A psychic convinces Gail that the only way to save her marriage is to “even the scales” with her own celebrity pass: Jon Hamm. an Oscar for hairstyling and makeup.

MOANA B Sun: 10:10 1:20 4:00 7:00; Mon to Thu: 1:20 4:00 7:00 They transformed Jim Carrey and the Moana answers the Ocean’s call and, for the first time, voyages beyond the reef of her island of Motunui with the infamous demigod Maui on an unforgettable journey to restore prosperity to her people. rest of the cast into the glorious WhoTHE INVITE E Sun: 1:10 4:00 7:00; Mon to Thu: 1:10 7:00 ville townspeople.

Joe and Angela’s marriage is on thin ice. When they invite their enigmatic upstairs neighbors for a dinner party, the night spirals into unexpected places. Have they reignited the spark or lit the match that burns it all down?

The burning question is, will Carrey YOUNG WASHINGTON C Sun: 10:00 AM; Mon to Thu: 4:10 PM undergo the grueling makeup transBefore he led a nation, George Washington was a young soldier thrown into a global conflict. With alliances crumbling and war closing formation again, or will they have to in, he must choose who to trust and confront the leader he’s becoming.

MINIONS & MONSTERS B Sun: 10:10 1:00 3:10 5:20 7:30; Mon to Thu: 1:00 3:10 5:20 7:30 utilize AI and only use his voice? The Illumination expands its joyful animated universe with a riotous new chapter. film cost $123 million and grossed TOY STORY 5 B Sun: 10:10 1:20 4:20 7:00; Mon to Thu: 1:20 4:20 7:00 $351 million. The sequel wouldn’t be The toys are back in Disney and Pixar’s “Toy Story 5,” and this time it’s Toy meets Tech.

HADESTOWN: THE MUSICAL Thu: 1:00 7:30 the same without him, so it’s a matter The genre-defying musical blends modern American folk music with New Orleans-inspired jazz to reimagine a sweeping ancient tale. of cash and Carrey!  FOR 7/19/20267/23/2026 ONLY WWW.LAEMMLE.COM © 2026 King Features Synd., Inc.

By Tony Rizzo

H

NEWHALL

10 · SUNDAYSIGNAL

Oscar-winning film/TV hairdresser Gail Ryan. Courtesy of Tony Rizzo

Top Movies

JULY 13, 2026

1. Minions & Monsters (PG) Pierre Coffin, Trey Parker 2. Toy Story 5 (PG) Tom Hanks, Tim Allen

3. Young Washington (PG13) William Franklyn-Miller, Mary-Louise Parker 4. Supergirl (PG-13) Milly Alcock, David Corenswet 5. Disclosure Day (PG-13) Emily Blunt, Josh O’Connor 6. Obsession (R) Michael Johnston, Inde Navarrette 7. Backrooms (R) Chiwetel Ejiofor, Renate Reinsve 8. Jackass: Best and Last (R) Johnny Knoxville, Steve-O 9. Scary Movie (R) Marlon Wayans, Shawn Wayans 10. The Invite (R) Seth Rogen, Olivia Wilde  © 2026 King Features Synd., Inc. JULY 19, 2026

Upgrading Your Health and Wellness Routine

F

Dig into Your Diet

or many, the longer days, warmer temperatures, and blooming flowers of spring and summer bring a renewed sense of energy and motivation to paint the garage or freshen up the garden. However, it is also the perfect time of the year to devote your energy to personal health and wellness improvement projects.

To prepare for the warmer seasons ahead, Dr. Leah Joseph, a board-certified primary care physician at Teladoc Health, the world’s largest telehealth company, shares her tips for upgrading health and wellness routines.

Tidy Up Your Sleep Schedule

People tend to appreciate the longer days of spring and summer. But more early morning sunshine, along with life’s other distractions, can wreak havoc on sleep schedules.

Joseph recommends that people prioritize getting seven to nine hours of sleep a night and stresses that consistency is the key to reaping the rewards of a

J U LY 19, 2026

H E A LT H

good night’s rest. “Establishing a sleep schedule that conditions your body to go to sleep and wake up at the same time each day, including weekends, helps your body get into a natural rhythm,” she says. “To get into a routine, try setting a bedtime alert on your phone or placing a note next to your TV to remind you of your bedtime.”

More sun and rising temperatures make it easier to find fresh, in-season fruits and vegetables, staples of a healthy diet. Eating plenty of whole foods, including vegetables and fruits, can lower blood pressure, lower the risk of heart disease and stroke, help with digestion problems and have a positive effect on blood sugar, which can help keep appetites under control.

“Focus on what you can control around healthy eating choices and learn to adapt to things outside of your power,” suggests Joseph. “Look for chances to add color to your plate with fruits and veggies and cook with fresh ingredients when you can.”

In addition to support from your primary care physician, registered nutritionists and dietitians can help design a healthy eating strategy with the right mix of whole foods. In many cases, meeting with dietary experts can be done easily and conveniently online. (BPT) 

S U N D AY S I G N A L · 11

GARDENING

Build a Beautiful Backyard Flower Garden

By Sandy Lindsey

A

flower garden is a living, breathing, scent-producing work of art. It can actually reduce summer chores after installation, particularly if it replaces or reduces the size of the lawn.

It all starts with site selection. Most flowers love full sun — aka, a minimum of six to eight hours of sun per day — with some preferring partial sun of five to six hours per day. Watch how the sun moves through the yard. Note which areas get morning sun, afternoon sun, and all-day sun, and then choose the best flowers for the available sunlight.

Got a lot of shade? Consider shade-loving astilbes, bleeding hearts, and that staple of garden resilience — hostas.

Most importantly, make sure the selected spot is near a water source. If not, consider installing drip irrigation or the less expensive alternative of running a polyvinyl chloride pipe underground from an existing faucet to a new spigot just about anywhere in the yard.

Mark It Out

Lay out — and fine-tune — the proposed flower bed shape using a garden hose, string, stakes (marking the corners of a proposed square or rectangular bed) or stakes and twine (for curved beds). Other options include cutting in the edges of the proposed design with a spade or edger or grabbing some temporary landscape paint.

Start Digging

Meticulously remove grass, old plants, and weeds, along with all their roots. Any plant parts left behind can quickly take over again, squeezing out the flowers. At the very least, they’ll require reweeding, which is more difficult when flowers are in place.

The soil should then be loosened at least six or eight inches deep so the new flower’s roots can grow easily.

Get Amending

Sandy soil, which drains too quickly, and clay soil, which drains too slowly, should be amended with organic matter in the form of compost, leaf mold, or well-rotted, aged manure. Or, incorporate a 50%

12 · SUNDAYSIGNAL

Draw things out first on paper, or use a free garden design app such as Garden Puzzle. Be sure to take into account each plant’s final size. Photo Credit Ronstik

topsoil and 50% compost quality garden soil mix into sandy soil, and a 50% topsoil, 25% compost, 25% sand blend into clay soil.

Raised bed garden mixes can also use a 50% topsoil and 50% organic matter (i.e., compost) quality garden soil.

Another popular choice is a combination of 60% topsoil, 30% compost, and 10% aeration material (such as sand or perlite). Although aeration materials will enhance drainage and soil aeration, this can be a double-edged sword, as it can also lead to water retention problems and nutrient depletion. It’s a judgment call, often based on the ground soil conditions beneath the bed.

Container gardeners will want to use a high-quality potting mix of 25% peat moss or coconut coir, 25% perlite, and 50% compost. Avoid the temptation to fill pots with regular garden soil, as it can compact and smother the roots.

To save money, you can buy the ingredients as less-expensive individual components and mix them in a wheelbarrow or 5-gallon bucket for smaller jobs.

Think on Paper

Draw things out first on paper, or use a free garden design app such as Garden Puzzle. Be sure to take into account each plant’s final size.

When in doubt, start small, then expand the beds as your confidence increases, whether the goal is colorful curb appeal or a backyard nature sanctuary

— or both. Keep beds three to four feet deep at most to simplify maintenance.

Pastels are serene. Bold colors are energetic. Consider combining them for a unique effect. Plant at least three to five (odd numbers work better) of each flower to keep the beds from looking chaotic.

You could plant taller plants in the back of a bed and shorter ones in front. Or, in the case of a round or oval-shaped island bed, or one wrapped around a tree, place the taller plants in the middle and graduate downward in height so the shortest plants are at the edges.

Don’t forget to allow room in the budget for mulch to help the soil retain moisture and give beds a finished look. It’s especially important when the plants are small and there’s a lot of space between them.

Instant Gratification

If you’re looking for hardy choices that do well even when planted in early-to-peak summer, consider zinnias, cosmos, marigolds, nasturtiums, sunflowers, Mexican sunflowers, black-eyed Susans, echinacea (purple coneflower), gaillardia, calendula, coreopsis or Shasta daisies.

Although they can all be grown from seeds, it may be simpler to buy some seedlings this year and save seeds from those plants for next year, if it’s an open-pollinated (heirloom) variety. Plus, nasturtiums, Mexican sunflowers, gaillardia, and some caSee GARDEN, next page

JULY 19, 2026

Five Budget-Friendly Bedroom Upgrades

HOME

M

aking changes to a bedroom doesn’t have to break the bank. Simple swaps, a little DIY and some inexpensive purchases can go a long way toward freshening up the place you lay your head.

Better Bedding

If you can’t remember the last time you bought a new comforter, it may be time to snag one. Think beyond the luxury home stores and check out discount home decor retailers and even thrift stores, where you can often find new, unopened bedding at a fraction of the cost. A fluffy throw blanket in a dynamic new color might be the perfect way to rejuvenate your bed.

Playful Pillows

Few things spruce up a bedroom more than new throw pillows. Available in a myriad of sizes and shapes - from squares to rectangles to asymmetrical - there is no shortage of ways to use these functional pieces to brighten up a space.

Uplifting Light

Old-fashioned lamps, ancient wall sconces and dusty chandeliers can make a room feel stale. Scouring consignment stores and estate sales for new lighting can take a bedroom from dated to delightful without spending a ton of cash. If big box stores are more your thing, you can find budget lamps in

PHOTO COURTESY OF SHUTTERSTOCK

unexpected departments; for example, try the backto-school sections for dorm-friendly finds like twinkle lights and small bedside lamps. These little pops of light can both brighten and cozy up a room with minimal effort.

Punchy Paint

Repainting a room is a doable DIY project, and it can make a huge difference in how a room looks and feels. Give yourself time to peruse the countless paint swatches at specialty paint stores or home improvement stores. If you’ve always gravitated toward earthy tones, maybe opt for a color with a little more depth or saturation. If brighter hues are your thing, go a little darker. If you love the idea of painting but worry

GARDEN Continued from previous page

lendula can be perennials in zones nine to 11.

When shopping, consider asking a local nursery whether it will give a discount for a bulk buy. Some home improvement stores do this automatically.

Never Forget

Once a plant starts flowering, regularly remove spent flowers to encourage new blooms.

Adaptive Strategies

Flowers come in many shapes, sizes, and colors to suit every taste, with many options to choose from even for difficult situations.

OK With Wet Feet The following are solutions to wet areas in the yard where J U LY 19, 2026

about buyer’s remorse, start with an accent wall.

Heavenly Hardware

Functional hardware like drawer pulls and doorknobs can be replaced without much effort or money. Secondhand stores, online marketplaces and even furniture boutiques can be a goldmine for offbeat and unique hardware. Be sure to think beyond your bedside, too. Wardrobe handles, closet rods, sconces, wall hooks and hinges can be swapped out easily and inexpensively.

Find more tips and guidance to give your bedroom a budget-friendly upgrade at eLivingtoday. com. (Feature Impact) 

nothing else wants to grow: buttonbush, cardinal flower, marsh marigold, Japanese iris, southern blue flag, American bellflower, curly clematis, few-flower milkweed, coastal tickseed, coastal Joe Pye weed, and large-flower hibiscus.

Drought-Tolerant These perform well even in hot, dry conditions: lavender, zinnias, lantana, coneflower, black-eyed Susans, yarrow, coreopsis, gaura, phlox, alpine aster, antelope horns milkweed, blanketflower, marigolds, sedum, hens and chicks, red hot poker, Russian sage, and verbena.

Accent Plants Ferns add a lush ambience to flower beds, whether they’re sun lovers or shady spot specialists. Add ongoing vibrancy with the colorful leaves of coleus, coral bells, sun-tolerant caladiums, canna, ornamental sweet potato vine, tampala, begonia, dusty miller, or crotons. (EP) 

Variegated canna is a great accent plant. ©ADOBESTOCK

S U N D AY S I G N A L · 1 3

CAREERS

The Basics of Vocational and Trade Schools

T

he educational landscape is shifting, and those shifts are wide-ranging. One of the more notable shifts to occur in recent years involves an increase in student interest and enrollment in vocational and trade programs. According to the National Student Clearinghouse®, enrollment in vocational and trade programs grew by nearly 20% between the spring of 2020 and the spring of 2025.

Students and families interested in vocational and trade schools may have questions about what these institutions offer and how they can benefit graduates going forward.

range of programs, including courses in business, health care and technology.

Vocational vs. Trade Schools

What is a vocational school? ATI notes that vocational school curricula focus on job-related training.

Similar to trade schools, vocational school is unlikely to offer courses in the humanities. Vocational schools may award certificates or diplomas, but some also offer associate’s degrees or applied bachelor’s degrees.

While many people assume vocational and trade schools are the same thing, there is a subtle distinction between the two. According to Advanced Technology Institute (ATI), a trade school generally focuses on skilled trades like carpentry, HVAC, and plumbing. Vocational schools tend to offer a wider

What is a trade school? Trade schools teach students the skills necessary to work in a specific career or profession. College and university curricula are broad-based and not necessarily as career-focused as a trade school curriculum, which does not offer humanities or liberal arts courses. Trade schools do not typically offer degrees like an associate’s degree or a bachelor’s degree. Students who complete a program at a trade school typically earn a certificate, diploma or a credential recognized within the industry in which they hope to work.

What about community colleges?

Many students may learn about vocational or trade programs offered at local community colleges. Such programs have grown in popularity, and the National Student Clearinghouse® reports that interest in vocational and trade programs drove an increase in community college enrollment during the 2024-2025 school year. Students interested in vocational or trade programs are urged to investigate the offerings at local community colleges in addition to exploring the programs at vocational or trade schools that are not necessarily affiliated with a community college. The more options students explore, the more prepared they are to choose the best school for them.

Vocational and trade schools are growing in popularity. Students who feel such institutions might be for them are urged to explore their options.

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JULY 19, 2026

SENIORLIVING

How Women Can Help Combat Muscle Loss

It is reported that age-related muscle loss often begins between ages 30-35, with women losing 3-8% of their muscle mass per decade and increasing to 5-10% loss per decade after age 60 Photo courtesy of Shutterstock

A

ging is inevitable, but losing muscle and mobility doesn’t have to be. For many women, maintaining strength, independence, energy and mobility are top priorities as they get older, particularly as they deal with the mental and physical responsibilities that come with working, caregiving, keeping up with friends, hobbies and enjoying an active lifestyle.

In fact, 58% of women in the United States are actively focused on staying healthy as they age, according to a recent survey commissioned by Viactiv, a line of award-winning supplements for women known for their unique formats and flavors. However, 73% of respondents weren’t aware of sarcopenia, or age-related muscle loss. According to the International Journal of Women’s Health, age-related muscle loss often begins between J U LY 19, 2026

ages 30-35, with women losing 3-8% of their muscle mass per decade and increasing to 5-10% loss per decade after age 60.

Hormonal changes, decreased activity levels, stress, poor sleep and inadequate nutrition can all contribute to the decline in muscle, which can also negatively impact balance, bone health, metabolism, posture and everyday mobility.

Yet, despite 70% of women reporting some level of concern about muscle loss, 54% are unsure how to protect their muscle health.

“Women want to stay strong, active and independent as they age, but many are getting mixed messages about what actually supports longterm muscle health,” said Dr. Tania Elliott, a dual board-certified physician See MUSCLE MASS, page 17

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S U N D AY S I G N A L · 1 5

F E AT U R E

How to Create a Dedicated Backyard Game Space

W

hat distinguishes a good backyard gathering from a great one? More often than not, a little friendly competition.

Exmark has partnered with landscape designer, Doug Scott with Redeem Your Ground, on a new video that helps you break down the most common considerations for building a versatile backyard game space suitable for everything from cornhole to bocce to Kubb.

Location

“Location makes or breaks everything else. Get it right, and your space invites people in without saying a word. Get it wrong, and it becomes just another stretch of grass,” says Scott.

A good game space will be ideally sized, on flat ground, and receive shade during peak afternoon playing hours. Kubb, for example, only requires a 16 by 26-foot footprint, making it one of the most space-efficient options out there. If you want room for larger games like cornhole or football, aim for a 40 by 60-foot area.

Your space should feel like a natural extension of where people naturally congregate. Situate it close enough to the house that nobody’s making long treks for bathroom breaks — but far enough that a late-night game doesn’t carry into any bedrooms.

Also, watch for overhead utility lines, exposed tree roots, and fences that could cut the fun short.

Seating

Giving spectators comfortable seating keeps the energy going between rounds. Options to consider include: • A cluster of Adirondack chairs with a side table gives you a movable conversation spot that adapts to wherever guests want to settle. Orient them so the sun is behind spectators during prime playing hours.

• For a more permanent setup, a simple L- or U-shaped built-in bench along the perimeter is hard to beat. It frames the space, and can be topped with cushions.

• A picnic table pulls triple duty, offering seating, a surface for food and drinks, and a natural gathering point between games.

16 · SUNDAYSIGNAL

Few things bring the fun to summer parties like a backyard game space.

• A fire pit just outside the perimeter is the perfect pre- and post-game hangout that extends your space’s usability into cool-weather season.

Storage

Accessibility is key. If equipment is stuffed in a bag under the porch, games won’t happen spontaneously. But when everything is right there? Game on!

Whether you use a storage bench or a custom-built bin locker, the common thread should be proximity.

Lighting

Good lighting separates a space that’s useless after sundown from one that keeps the energy going all night. Just be sure to keep the light warm and out of players’ eyes. A simple layered approach works great: • Warm string lights overhead at 10 feet or higher • Solar lanterns around the perimeter to define the space • A lit path connecting the game area back to the main patio. It’s a safety feature and says, “something’s happening over there.”

Landscaping Landscaping transforms any patch of grass into an actual outdoor room. Here’s what to include: • Low shrubs or ornamental grasses along the sides, well outside the playing area. They define the space, add a little privacy, and frame the action without blocking sightlines.

• Edging and borders. Natural stone, timber borders, pavers, or bricks give the court a clean, defined edge that tells everyone exactly where the play space begins and ends. It’s a small detail with a big visual payoff.

• Shade trees. Planting a tree at the southwest corner is a long-term investment worth considering.

• Rain garden or dry creek bed. Both are functional, attractive, and help keep the play surface from becoming muddy and washed out after a heavy rain.

Remember to avoid mulch adjacent to the playing surface, which migrates, and thorny shrubs. You don’t want a ball — or guest — rolling into a rose bush.

For more insights, watch the Done-In-A-Weekend Projects episode “How to Create a Dedicated Backyard Game Space” on Backyard Life, a unique multimedia destination with a focus on helping homeowners improve their outdoor living spaces. There you can also find the full rules of the Scandinavian lawn game Kubb, DIY instructions for building specific game spaces, and Exmark Original Series videos that make it easy to make meaningful improvements to your outdoor living experience.

“Remember, the best backyard game spaces are dialed in over a few seasons, as you get a feel for how you actually use the space,” says Scott. “Each addition makes the space more inviting, more functional, and more yours.” (SPT)  JULY 19, 2026

SENIORLIVING

MUSCLE MASS Continued from page 15

in internal medicine. “A lot of women are already making healthy choices like walking and staying active, which is a great start. However, maintaining muscle health really requires a more complete approach, and one that starts earlier than most women think, which is in your 30s.”

Prioritize Strength Training

Many women report barriers such as lack of time (15%), feeling overwhelmed (23%) or simply not enjoying exercise (23%). The key is finding realistic, sustainable habits. While walking and cardio exercise aid in heart health, which 58% of survey respondents report already engaging in, strength training is one of the most effective ways to preserve and build muscle as you age. Still, just 34% of women report doing strength or resistance training.

You don’t need an intense fitness regimen to support healthy aging.

Aiming for at least two strength-focused workouts a week — lifting weights, using resistance bands, practicing weight-bearing yoga or doing bodyweight exercises like squats and pushups — that target major muscle groups can help maintain muscle health. The goal is to fatigue your muscles during sets so they build.

Fuel Muscles with Proper Nutrition

Exercise is only part of the equation.

Muscles also need proper nutrition to recover and stay strong. Protein plays a critical role in maintaining muscle mass, especially as women age. Incorporating high-quality protein throughout the day, such as eggs, Greek yogurt, fish, lean meats, beans, lentils, nuts and seeds, may help support muscle repair and overall strength.

J U LY 19, 2026

Support Healthy Aging with Supplements

In addition to a balanced diet and exercise, some women may consider supplements that support healthy aging and energy production, including CoQ10, which is a naturally occurring antioxidant that helps cells produce energy. According to research published in “The Journal of Nutrition, Health and Aging,” because muscles require significant energy to function, CoQ10 shows potential for managing sarcopenia by improving mitochondrial function and reducing oxidative stress.

An option like Viactiv CoQ10 Cardio Complete, available in a tasty fruit-flavored chew, can help support heart health, muscles, nerve function and daily energy. Enhanced with vitamins D3 and K2, it provides daily essential nutrition for women without the need to swallow a large pill.

Practice Healthy Habits

Muscle health is influenced by more than workouts. Sleep, stress management and daily movement all play important roles. Adopting some simple habits, including prioritizing quality sleep, stretching regularly, staying properly hydrated, reducing sedentary time throughout the day and practicing stress-management techniques, like yoga, meditation or deep breathing, can help aid in healthy aging, including maintaining muscle.

The earlier women begin prioritizing muscle health, the better positioned they may be to maintain strength and mobility as they age. Visit Viactiv.com for more information and resources to help combat muscle loss.

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S U N D AY S I G N A L · 1 7

CROSSWORD TIME

SOLUTIONS

18 · SUNDAYSIGNAL

JULY 19, 2026

Opinion READERLETTERS

Read Voter Info The full-page news article in the July 14 edition of The Signal

by Yue Stella Yu and Kristen Hwang, regarding California’s upcoming election, points out how, once again, we are being fed a double dose of gobbledygook from our legislators.

Proposition 40 takes more taxes from billionaires and Prop. 41 cancels it out. Prop. 42 would also cancel out Prop. 40.

Prop. 1 tugs at our heartstrings to get our vote, to go another $11.25 billion in debt for low-income housing. Nobody ever defines “low-income housing.”

Prop. 3 makes permanent a “temporary” tax increase voted in 2012.

Prop. 37 would give our state government ANOTHER $25 billion to give loans to people who can’t even make the payments on their new home. Can you say, housing crash?

The only proposition I will vote for is No. 39, requiring voter ID! Everything else is pure BS! Oh, and here is a suggestion for a Prop. C: C for Corruption! Let’s have a bill that helps get rid of corruption, not create opportunities for more.

Ron Perry Canyon Country Submit a Letter to the Editor

E-mail: letters@signalscv.com.

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.

J U LY 19, 2026

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

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

Reflections on a High School Reunion

By David Hegg

R

ecently, I connected with some of my high school friends, and it brought back memories, good and not so good. And it reminded me of our last reunion, when I was face-to-face with schoolmates after several decades. It was great, but I must admit, when I walked into the room ... it was full of old people!

Time flashes forward in huge chunks. Just moments ago, we were graduating and heading out to the lake for some laughter and celebration with the gang.

Then — flash — off to college or industry, and later to the hospital to have our kids. Finally, we walked through the door of the reunion hall, and nobody recognized us. We had too much waist, too little hair, and too many stories to get through in the couple of days we had together. It was a most surreal experience, and yet it also crystallized some things in my mind.

Here are five things I learned: 1. Good friendships may go dormant, but they don’t die: It was remarkable how easy it was to slip right back into conversation, laughter and camaraderie with my closest friends. My times with Sue, Duane and Gil were as though we’d never been apart. We’d traveled different roads, but apparently the distance of space and time had not eroded the affection that made our friendship so easy.

2. It is never too early in life to start making good choices: It was apparent that those who had demonstrated the most discipline, focus, hard work and congeniality in high school had, for the most part, been able to stay on track, find success, and overcome life’s obstacles. The building blocks of purposeful, satisfying lives were formed early in life. Good choices that didn’t seem all that crucial at the time turned out to be vital to having more good choices later in life.

3. It can be too late to start making good choices: The saddest part of the reunion was the realization that so many of our class had wasted their lives. Stories of our friends choosing instant gratification through drugs, alcohol, crime, anger, promiscuity, or just plain laziness were much too widespread. And the biggest hurt was the reality that their situations, and the wider consequences borne by their families, were irreversible.

As we all know, when you travel down the road of bad choices, it isn’t long before you reach the point where there are no good choices left.

4. It is never too late to recognize those who invested in you: As we reminisced, stories of teachers, parents, coaches and friends who invested in our lives became commonplace. Even before we were conscious of the good things being formed in us, there were those trying desperately to instill in us the right decision-making mechanism. They were attempting to mentor us toward honesty, to appreciate the connection between hard work and accomplishment, and ultimately to recognize that we’d been given a life with great promise and it would be a shame to waste it on ourselves.

A highlight for me was seeing my high school basketball coach, Dick Kinzer. The few minutes I had with this wonderful, wise, now quite aged man immediately took me back to those three years of varsity ball. I can’t adequately describe the life lessons he taught me. We won far more than we lost, but we did lose. Coach Kinzer taught us how to hate losing while maintaining the correct perspective on competition and life. I will forever be indebted to him.

5. How you identify yourself matters most: I suppose every reunion is ultimately about who we’ve become. Are we rich?

Successful? What’s the most important identifying thing about us? Who are we really? At the last reunion, I was most gratified to meet so many who, over the course of time, had come to realize the only identity that satisfies is as a follower of Jesus.

One guy stands out. Tracey Starke was one of the meanest middle linebackers in the league, and he had only disdain for God and those who followed Jesus. At the reunion, he hugged me and explained how God had chased him down, caught him, brought him a wonderful wife, and was now the One in charge. And there were many in our class with the same story.

A reunion can be a wonderful thing. It will force you to reflect on what really matters in this life. And what I took away from the memories was simple. I found myself reflecting on how good my wife and I have it. We are so thankful for our lives, our three wonderful married children, our even more wonderful grandchildren, and the fact that we have no regrets.

God is good, all the time, even when time has passed much faster than we realized.

Local resident David Hegg is senior pastor of Grace Baptist Church. “Ethically Speaking” appears Sundays.  S U N D AY S I G N A L · 1 9

J U LY 19, 2026

S U N D AY S I G N A L · 2 0