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A GUIDE TO CALIFORNIA CAMPING

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DECEMBER 28, 2025

TABLE OF CONTENTS NEWS FEATURES

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FROM THE CITY MANAGER

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FOOD

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4 A Beginners Guide to Camping 6 Hidden Gems 7 Fee-Free Days at Parks, Museums and More 8 Join Us for the Return of the 14th Annual Polar Plunge

9 Nutritious, Energy-Building Breakfasts Turkey Bacon and Spinach Quiche with Sweet Potato Crust Broccoli and Cheese Egg White Scramble on Whole-Wheat English Muffins

ENTERTAINMENT SENIOR LIVING

10 11

HOME

12

GARDENING

13

HEALTH

14

FINANCE

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11 Fitness Classes for the Over-50 Crowd 12 Transform Your Kitchen 13 Lessons from the Garden 14 Super Foods for a Nutritious Diet 15 Financial Planning at any Life Stage

PET CORNER PUZZLES OPINION

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19 David Hegg

SINCE 1919

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S U N D AY S I G N A L · 3

F E AT U R E

A Beginner’s Guide

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alifornia’s abundant parks and preserves offer epic outdoor vistas ranging from soothing seascapes to golden deserts and ancient redwood groves. If you want to immerse yourself in this amazing scenery, a California camping trip puts you right in the middle of it all. Camping gives you VIP access to hiking, stargazing, forest-bathing, beach-lounging, or staring at nature’s wonders. You don’t admire the beauty from afar; you’re surrounded by it.

If you’ve never camped before, the logistics can seem daunting. To get you started, below are answers to seven common California camping questions.

Do I have to sleep in a tent?

Tent camping is the traditional choice, and one that many campers swear by. But camping is more about where you go and how you spend your time than it is about where and how you sleep. Camping in a tent requires a fair amount of gear, so the preparation curve can be tough.

First-timers (or visitors flying into California) can ease the planning-and-packing anxiety by renting a complete gear kit from a California REI store or local outfitters like The Camp Wolf in San Diego or Sports Basement in the San Francisco Bay Area and Orange County. Online companies like LowerGear or KitLender also rent camping gear.

©ADOBE STOCK

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©ADOBE STOCK

What about camping in a van or RV?

Camping in an RV or campervan can ease the learning curve. These “homes on wheels” keep you warm and dry no matter the weather and provide comforts a tent can’t provide.

Most campervans are 19- to 24-feet long, fit two adults comfortably, and are as easy to drive as a standard-sized car. RVs are significantly bigger — up to 40 feet — and fit up to 10 people, but their larger size makes them more challenging to maneuver.

Most campervans and RVs come with a refrigerator, stove, toilet, shower and/or other amenities, but some models are more bare-bones. Look for a rental van or RV that matches your comfort zone.

For campervan rentals, check out options from Roadsurfer, Escape Campervans, Moterra, Indie Campers, Native Campervans, and Travellers Autobarn.

For RV rentals, search Cruise America, El Monte RV, or Adventure RV, or check peer-to-peer marketplaces like Outdoorsy or RVshare to book a privately owned vehicle from an individual.

Prices typically range between $100 to $250 per night — but read the fine print. Some rentals include only 50 to 150 miles per day (you’re charged

extra if you drive more miles). Others charge extra fees for linens or kitchen utensils. If you’re traveling with your dog, check on pet rules and fees.

What is glamping?

Glamping is a great choice for anyone who wants a touch of “glamour” mixed in with their “camping.”

Many California campgrounds rent cabins or yurts that provide basic comforts like four walls, a roof, a bed, and a table.

Some even have electricity, like the cabins at Northern California’s Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park, Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park, and Clear Lake State Park.

Others, like the yurts at Bothe-Napa Valley State Park in Calistoga, are only a notch fancier than a tent, but they offer easy access to Napa Valley wineries.

You can rent glamping cabins by the Pacific Ocean at Jalama Beach County Park in Santa Barbara County or in Anza-Borrego desert at Agua Caliente Regional Park. Many private campgrounds specialize in glamping, too. To find them, search web directories like Hipcamp, Glamping.com, and GlampingHub.

When is the best time to camp in California?

DECEMBER 28, 2025

TO CALIFORNIA CAMPING

F E AT U R E

and preferences.

Expect to pay as little as $20 for a primitive campsite and $100-plus for a campsite with all the extras.

RV resorts such as the seven Sunland Resorts, for instance, in San Diego and Riverside counties, offer fun amenities including outdoor pools, game rooms, and clubhouse lounges with big-screen TVs.

What if I’m a last-minute planner?

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California is famous for its easygoing climate, so camping is a year-round pastime in many areas of the state. Topography matters: Desert camping is ideal from October to April when the temperatures are mild; summer is too hot for most folks. Camping in the high mountains is best from June to October when the roads and trails are snow-free.

Coastal camping is great anytime, but because summer is the most popular season, you’ll have better luck scoring a prime beach site in the “shoulder months” of April, May, September and October, when the weather is lovely and crowds are scarce.

Do I need to make advance reservations?

California’s most popular campgrounds fill up months in advance, so booking early is key. Multiple government agencies and private companies manage the state’s campgrounds, so you can use multiple booking sites to find a campsite. State park campgrounds are listed on Reserve California (www. reservecalifornia.com). National park and national forest campgrounds are listed on Recreation.gov.

At both websites, you can reserve campsites up to six months in advance. County and regional park campgrounds typically have their own reservation systems. Find them by searching for keywords like D E C E M B E R 28, 2025

“reserve San Diego County campgrounds.”

Private campgrounds offer more options. KOA (koa.com) manages a huge network of campgrounds worldwide. In California, KOAs are located in Lake Tahoe, Mt. Shasta, Pescadero, Moss Landing and the Eastern Sierra. Similarly, Thousand Trails (thousandtrails.com) has campgrounds in Palm Desert, Idyllwild, Santa Barbara, Cloverdale and near Yosemite.

The web directory Hipcamp can help you find private campsites. You can filter your search by location and type of site: RV, tent or glamping. Harvest Hosts offers a similar service that’s primarily for RV campers.

If reservable campsites are already full, you can search for first-come, first-served campgrounds. At these camps, the first people who show up score the open campsites. California State Parks has 20 firstcome, first-served campgrounds, and California’s 18 national forests have hundreds of first-come, firstserved sites.

To maximize your chances, don’t arrive at a firstcome, first-served campground on a Friday night at 6 p.m. Instead, show up on a Wednesday or Thursday when the camp is less likely to be full. Once you occupy a site, it’s yours for up to 14 days.

Another option is to nab a cancelled campsite. Because campers reserve sites at popular parks far in advance, sometimes they need to cancel. One way to find these cancellations is to sign up with apps like Campnab, CampsiteAssist, or YesYouCamp. They’ll notify you when a site becomes available; you jump on the appropriate booking site and reserve it. (Visit California) 

What should I look for when I book a campsite?

Some campgrounds have flush toilets, drinking water, hot showers and maybe even a camp store or swimming pool. Many don’t. Within each campground, site amenities vary too. Some sites may have electrical and water hookups for RVs; some have just a picnic table.

Some sites may be much larger, more private, or have an ocean or lake view. Some may be closer or farther from the restrooms. Make sure the campground and site you choose match all your needs

©ADOBE STOCK

S U N D AY S I G N A L · 5

F E AT U R E

Some Hidden Gems in the Santa Clarita Valley

By Alicia Doyle Sunday Signal Writer

O

n a winter weekend in Santa Clarita, the most memorable escapes aren’t always the ones wrapped in tinsel and traffic — they’re the odd little surprises hiding in plain sight, from a singing primate sanctuary at the edge of town to a moonlit musical in a black-box theater and a tuckedaway wine patio where locals linger like they’re on vacation.

You may be familiar with the names but have you taken the time to explore these hidden gems? Now is a good time.

Walk of Western Stars

Since 1981, Santa Clarita’s Walk of Western Stars has paid tribute to the legends of Western film, television and radio who helped define America’s frontier spirit. Each honoree is memorialized with a bronze star and terrazzo tile embedded along Main Street in Old Town Newhall — a public sidewalk that’s become a living monument to the Old West.

The cinematic allure of the Western is timeless. From the lone cowboy silhouetted against a burning sunset to the sweeping landscapes that stirred the imagination, the genre has long captured audiences with its tales of grit, honor and redemption. Since the early 1900s, Westerns have shaped how the world sees the American frontier — simple, untamed and deeply human.

Modeled after the Hollywood Walk of Fame, the Walk of Western Stars recognizes actors, directors and behind-the-scenes artisans who’ve kept the Western spirit alive. Past inductees include icons such as Roy Rogers, Dale Evans, John Wayne, Sam Elliott,

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Richard Farnsworth and Bruce Dern.

Visitors can explore the stars at their own pace along both sides of Main Street in Old Town Newhall. While there is no single address or guided tour, the free Newhall Walking Tour App — available on the App Store, Amazon and Google Play — offers an interactive experience that brings the stories behind each star to life.

For more information, call the City of Santa Clar- The center is the only facility in the world to house and successfully breed all four genera of gibbon. ita at (661) 250-3787.

Gibbon Conservation Center

SIGNAL FILE PHOTO

Tucked away on Esguerra Road in Canyon Country, the Gibbon Conservation Center quietly carries out a global mission: to protect, study and care for one of the world’s rarest families of primates. Founded in 1976 by primatologist Alan Richard Mootnick, the nonprofit center is home to the largest and most diverse population of gibbons in the Western Hemisphere.

The center is the only facility in the world to house and successfully breed all four genera of gibbon, representing seven species in total — from the Siamang and Javan gibbons to the striking Northern White-Cheeked and Pileated varieties.

Public tours are offered every Saturday and Sunday at 10 a.m. throughout December and January. Each onehour guided tour offers a rare opportunity to hear the gibbons’ haunting morning calls and learn about their social structures and forest homes.

Tickets range from $11 for children

(ages 3–12) to $21.20 for adults, with discounts available for teens, students and seniors. The Gibbon Center is located at 19100 Esguerra Road. For tickets, visit www.gibboncenter.org and click the Public Tour tab, or call (661) 296-2737 for more information.

The Fantasticks

Located in Old Town Newhall at 24266 Main St., The MAIN is Santa Clarita’s hidden arts haven — a cityrun venue that quietly hosts small, experimental productions, film nights and performances. While larger theaters in the region draw the crowds, The MAIN offers a different kind of magic: intimate, quirky, and refreshingly original.

This January, the spotlight shines on Theatre Extempore’s production of The Fantasticks, the longest-running musical in history. The story is a moonlit journey through love, heartbreak, and the messy reality of growing up — reminding audiences that real love is rarely as poetic as the songs, but always twice as com-

plicated. Expect charm, intimacy, and a show that feels like a secret worth sharing.

Catch The Fantasticks from January 9–11 and 15–18. Tickets start at $27.51. For more information, visit atthemain.org or call (661) 290-2255.

Pulchella Winery and Tasting Room

Pulchella Winery and Tasting Room has quietly become one of Santa Clarita’s best-kept secrets for wine lovers. Located at 24261 Main Street, the boutique tasting room is co-owned by winemakers Steve Lemley and Nate Hasper, who bring more than 35 years of combined winemaking experience to their craft.

Lemley and Hasper launched Pulchella’s first vintage in 2009. Since then, the duo has earned over 100 scores of 90 points or higher in major wine enthusiast publications.

The tasting room exudes a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere with ample seating and a friendly, local vibe.

While Pulchella doesn’t serve food onsite, guests are invited to bring their own bites or order from nearby downtown restaurants, many of which are just steps away.

Pulchella Winery is closed on all holidays, with regular tasting room hours as follows: Wednesday–Thursday, 4–9 p.m.; Friday, 4–10 p.m.; Saturday, 3–10 p.m.; Sunday, 3–8 p.m.

Visitors are encouraged to check the winery’s social media pages for the most current updates on hours and closures.

For more information, visit pulchella winery.com or email customerservice@ pulchellawinery.com. The tasting room phone line, (661) 799-9463, is monitored during business hours for messages only.  DECEMBER 28, 2025

Fee-Free Days at Parks, Museums and More!

timed-entry reservation. Parking is $25 per vehicle. World-class exhibitions featuring art from international museums and the Getty’s own collections.

By Michele E. Buttelman Sunday Signal Writer

O

ne of the most popular sayings in the United States is “You get what you pay for.” However, in the case of Los Angeles County museums, cultural venues and parks, that saying often doesn’t apply.

The Getty Villa

City Parks

Most city and county parks are always free to visit. The exceptions include Castaic Lake Regional Park which charges a vehicle entry fee that recently increased to $15. However, you can visit Castaic Lake on dates when vehicle fees are waived: Jan. 19 Birthday of Martin Luther King, Jr. June 19 Juneteenth National Independence Day July 16 Bureau of Land Management Birthday Aug. 4 Great American Outdoors Act Anniversary Sept. 26 National Public Lands Day Nov. 11 Veterans Day To see a list of Santa Clarita’s free parks visit santaclarita.gov/parksdivision/parks.

To view a list of free Los Angeles County Parks, including the Placerita Canyon Nature Center and Natural Area and the Vasquez Rocks Nature Center and Natural Area visit parks. lacounty.gov.

William S. Hart Park

24151 N. Newhall Ave., Newhall 91321 The city of Santa Clarita’s 40th park is always free to visit and the historic Hart Mansion and Museum, the home of silent Western movie star William S. Hart, is gearing up to reopen soon.

Closed since 2020, the Hart Mansion D E C E M B E R 28, 2025

F E AT U R E

The Getty Center is known for its modern architecture and world famous art.

PHOTO COURTESY SHUTTERSTOCK

is a rarity in the museum world. It is a historic house museum with most of the original contents intact.

The Hart Ranch House is open Mondays 1- 5 p.m. and Tuesday through Sunday 10 a.m.- 5 p.m. The Hart Barnyard is open Tuesday-Sunday: 9 a.m.-2 p.m.

State Parks Fee-Free Days

www.parks.ca.gov California has the second-largest park system in the world with 280 units and the largest state park system in the United States.

Fee-free days usually include many National Parks dates. California parks free-fee days also include Jan. 19 MLK Jr. Day and June 19, Juneteenth. Sign up for email alerts to be notified of upcoming fee-free days at bit.ly/4pW8CYn.

National Parks Fee-Free Days

www.nps.gov/index.htm There are more than 400 National Park sites offering fee-free days in 2026, including the nine designated National, plus 28 other National Park Service sites including monuments,

historic sites and recreation areas.

The 2026 National Park Fee-Free Days, which are centered around holidays, include Feb. 16, May 25, June 14, July 3-5, Aug. 25, Sept. 17, Oct. 27 and Nov. 11.

L.A. County Fee-Free Days

Many of the world-class cultural venues in Los Angeles charge no admission, but parking fees may be charged. Bank of America customers can use the Museums on Us program which offers cardholders free entry to participating L.A. County museums on the first full weekend of every month. For info visit bit.ly/4pVPzNM.

Griffith Observatory

griffithobservatory.org Griffith Observatory is free for general admission, grounds, exhibits and public telescopes. Fees charged for parking (paid near the top, free further down), planetarium shows ($7$10) and special guided tours ($25$50). Closed Mondays.

The Getty Center

www.getty.edu/visit/center Admission is free but requires a

www.getty.edu/visit/villa Admission is free, and requires a timed-entry reservation. Parking is $25 per vehicle. Spared from the Palisades Fire of January 2025, the Getty Villa reopened to the public June 27. Greek and Roman antiquities are housed in a re-created Roman country home.

Museums

Here are some of the museums where admission is free.

The Broad www.thebroad.org Admission is free and requires a timed-entry reservation. Special exhibits require a fee.

California Science Center california sciencecenter.org The core exhibit galleries are free and do not require a reservation.

IMAX films require tickets.

The Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County nhm.org Free general admission for L.A. County residents on weekday afternoons 3-5 p.m. The NHM has more than 35 million specimens and artifacts, the largest natural and cultural history collection in the western United States. The La Brea Tar Pits is part of the NHM. Los Angeles County Arboretum, Botanic Garden arboretum.org/ Founded in 1947, the 127-acre garden is home to plant collections from throughout the world, including rare and endangered species. Free admission on the third Tuesday of the month.  S U N D AY S I G N A L · 7

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Join Us for the Return of the 14th Annual Polar Plunge

By Ken Striplin Santa Clarita City Manager

T

here is something truly special about beginning a new year with a moment that brings us together. For many in our community, there is an annual event that does just that! I want to invite you to celebrate the beginning of 2026 in a fun and unforgettable way: the Polar Plunge at the Santa Clarita Aquatic Center presented by Kaiser Permanente. There is no better way to welcome the new year than by taking the leap with your community by your side.

This year, the City of Santa Clarita is proud to present the 14th annual Polar Plunge, held on Saturday, January 3, from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. at the Waterslide Pool. Presented in partnership with Kaiser Permanente, the event gives participants the chance to walk, wade or fully plunge into the crisp 45-degree water. It is a challenge that brings plenty of laughs, excitement and a shared moment families will remember for years.

For those who decide to brave the icy water, our dedicated lifeguards will be ready with hot chocolate, coffee and donuts to warm you up after your plunge. Kaiser Permanente will also

be on site supporting the event and giving out free beach towels to the first 100 participants. Every resident who takes the chilly dip earns a place on the official Polar Bear Club members list. This recognition has become a fun badge of honor for many returning participants who challenge themselves year after year. Whether it’s your first time or part of your yearly routine, finishing the plunge comes with a real sense of accomplishment.

As always, our community continues to shine through acts of kindness.

Participants are encouraged to bring a non-perishable food item to the event, which will be donated directly to the Santa Clarita Valley Food Pantry. Your contribution helps support local families and reflects the generous spirit that defines our City.

Registration is required and participation is completely free. To sign up, please visit SantaClarita.gov/Seasons.

If you have questions or would like additional information, the Santa Clarita Aquatic Center team can be reached at (661) 250-3740.

I hope you will join us for this exciting celebration and make the Polar Plunge part of your New Year tradition. It is a chance to begin 2026 with a challenge, a smile and a community that is always ready to jump in together. 

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DECEMBER 28, 2025

FOOD

Nutritious, Energy-Boosting Egg-Inspired Breakfasts

W

hen planning meals, particularly breakfasts, there are a few critical factors many families consider: taste, simplicity and nutrition. Eating healthier doesn’t have to be complicated or out of reach. With the right inspiration, healthy food can be delicious, nutritious and convenient.

By choosing ingredients like eggs, which are easy to use and versatile, you can make healthy living fit into your life at the breakfast table as part of a balanced diet. For example, these egg-inspired recipes are part of the

American Heart Association’s Healthy for Good Eat Smart initiative, nationally supported by Eggland’s Best.

Remember, healthy eating isn’t just about one food — it’s about a combination of wholesome ingredients to make well-rounded meals. For example, eggs can be included as part of a heart-healthy diet that emphasizes vegetables, fruits, beans, nuts and seeds, whole grains, lean protein and fish, according to the American Heart Association.

To find more healthy eating tips and recipes, visit Heart.org. (Family Features )

Turkey Bacon and Spinach Quiche with Sweet Potato Crust

1 1/2 tablespoons fat-free feta cheese

Nonstick cooking spray 1 medium sweet potato, peeled 1 teaspoon canola or corn oil 1 medium yellow onion, diced 6 slices uncured, nitrate-free turkey bacon, thinly sliced 10 ounces frozen chopped spinach, thawed 3/4 teaspoon dried dill weed, crumbled 1/4 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground pepper 4 large egg whites 2 large eggs 1/4 cup fat-free milk

In medium bowl, using box grater, grate sweet potato. Measure out 2 cups. Gently press sweet potato on bottom and up sides of pan, forming crust. Sweet potato will be loose but will hold together once cooked.

Servings 5

Broccoli and Cheese Egg White Scramble on WholeWheat English Muffins

Preheat oven to 400 F. Lightly spray 9-inch pie pan with nonstick cooking spray.

Bake 20 minutes, or until crust is cooked. Remove from oven. Let stand to cool. Reduce oven temperature to 350 F. In medium skillet, heat oil over medium-high heat, swirling to coat bottom. Cook onion 6

Servings 4

Nonstick cooking spray 1 1/2 cups finely chopped fresh or frozen broccoli florets, thawed if frozen 1/4 cup water 8 extra-large egg whites 1/2 cup fat-free milk 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground pepper 1/4 cup shredded fat-free cheddar cheese 2 whole-wheat, low-sodium English muffins

Lightly spray large skillet with nonstick cooking spray.

Heat over medium-high heat. Cook broccoli and water 4-5 minutes, or until broccoli is tender. Remove from D E C E M B E R 28, 2025

minutes, or until almost translucent, stirring frequently. Add turkey bacon. Cook 3-4 minutes, or until onion and bacon begin to brown, stirring frequently. Add spinach, dill weed, salt and pepper. Cook 1-2 minutes, or until water from spinach is released. Remove from heat.

Transfer mixture into sweet potato crust.

In medium bowl, whisk egg whites, eggs and milk. Pour over mixture in crust. Sprinkle feta over top.

Bake 35-40 minutes, or until knife inserted into center comes out clean. Transfer to cooling rack. Let cool 10 minutes before cutting into wedges. 

heat. Transfer broccoli to dish. Using paper towels, wipe skillet clean.

In large bowl, whisk egg whites, milk and pepper until combined.

Lightly spray skillet with cooking spray. Heat over medium-high heat. Pour in egg white mixture. Cook 2-3 minutes, or until almost firm, stirring constantly with spatula. Stir in broccoli and cheddar cheese. Remove from heat.

Just before serving, split and toast English muffins.

Transfer to plates. Spoon egg mixture onto muffins.  S U N D AY S I G N A L · 9

ENTERTAINMENT

The Latest News on What’s Happening In Hollywood

these big grosses, the powers that be tasy rom-com “Practical Magic 2” have announced a sequel to “Wonka” with Sandra Bullock, Dianne Wiicole Kidman’s letting it be est and Stockard Channing, and the that is in the screenplay creation stage. known that she intends to Chalamet’s become very bankable. horror film “The Young People” with tell her side of her breakup Even though his Bob Dylan biopic “A Johnny Knoxville and Heather Grawith Keith Urban. ApparComplete Unknown” only broke even ham. (“The Young People” will be diently, attempts to save the marriage rected by Osgood Perkins, son of “Psy- (a $70 million cost against a $140.5 were fruitless, and she moved out of million gross), it still outgrossed the cho” star Anthony Perkins.) their home in Nashville, Tennessee.

Bruce Springsteen biopic “Springsteen: Maybe we’ll finally find out what The rumor mill alleges that he grew res • Santa Clarita Signal adsource@exhibitorads.com Deliver Me From Nowhere”(a $55 milreally happened between her and tired of her raunchy on-screen love lion cost against a $44 million gross), ” Cruise! p. 888.737.2812 f. 203.438.1206 scenes, where she’s romping with despite Jeremy Allen White portraying “Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Fachunky co-stars.

December 28-January 1, 2026 te: Sunday-Thursday, Springsteen. tory” (1971), starring Gene Wilde, She plans to spill everything about Chalamet’s “Marty Supreme,” ivery their date: 12/23/2025 marriage, as well as her marriage cost $3 million and grossed $4 milco-starring Gwyneth Paltrow and Kevlion. “Charlie and the Chocolate Facto former husband Tom Cruise in her in O’Leary, opens on Christmas Day, tory” (2005), starring Johnny Depp, tell-all memoir. Kidman and Urban’s while “Dune: Part Three” lands on marriage must have been very compli- cost $150 million and grossed $475.8 Dec. 18, 2026, co-starring Zendaya, million. “Wonka” (2023), starring cated between his music gigs and her Florence Pugh, Jason Momoa, Josh Timothee Chalamet, cost $125 milfilm and TV work.

Brolin and Robert Pattinson. lion and grossed $634.5 million. With Her upcoming projects are the fan“Dune: Part Three” star Robert Pattinson, who was recently on screens in “Die My Love” with Jennifer Lawrence, is upcoming in “The Drama” TM

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MARTY SUPREME E 12:45 4:10 7:30 Marty Mauser, a young man with a dream no one respects, goes to hell and back in pursuit of greatness.

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AVATAR: FIRE AND ASH C 12:30 3:20 7:00 James Cameron takes audiences back to Pandora in an immersive new adventure with Marine turned Na’vi leader Jake Sully , Na’vi warrior Neytiri, and the Sully family.

DAVID B Sun: 10:00 AM When the giant Goliath rises to terrorize a nation, a young shepherd armed with only a sling, a few stones, and unshakable faith steps forward.

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HAMNET C Sun: 10:00 AM HAMNET tells the powerful love story that inspired the creation of Shakespeare’s timeless masterpiece, Hamlet.

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Top Movies Dec. 22, 2025

1. Zootopia 2 (PG) Ginnifer Goodwin, Jason Bateman

2. Five Nights at Freddy’s 2 (PG-13) Josh Hutcherson, Piper Rubio 3. Wicked: For Good (PG) Cynthia Erivo, Ariana Grande 4. Dhurandhar (NR) Ranveer Singh, Sanjay Dutt 5. Now You See Me: Now You Don’t (PG-13) Jesse Eisenberg, Woody Harrelson 6. Jujutsu Kaisen: Execution (R) Jun’ya Enoki, Yuma Uchida 7. Ella McCay (PG-13) Emma Mackey, Jamie Lee Curtis  © 2025 King Features Synd., Inc.

Nicole Kidman (“Practical Magic 2”) ©Depositphotos

with Zendaya on April 3, 2026. Then he has “The Odyssey,” with Matt Damon, Tom Holland, Anne Hathaway, Zendaya, Lupita Nyong’o and Charlize Theron. Director Christopher Nolan’s been working on this film since his Oscar win for “Oppenheimer.” The epic “Odyssey” was filmed between Feb. 25 and Aug. 8 of this year.

Next, Pattinson began filming the crime drama “Primetime” with Phoebe Bridges, and he is currently shooting Netflix’s heist film “Here Comes the Flood” with Denzel Washington and Daisy Edgar-Jones. His sequel to “The Batman” starts shooting in the spring for an October 2027 release.

Rumors persist that Daniel Craig, the most recent James Bond, is in talks to play Mr. Freeze. Mr Freeze was originally played by director Otto Preminger in the “Batman” TV series and by Arnold Schwarzenegger in the film “Batman & Robin” in 1997. Pattinson better hit the gym if he wants to match Schwarzenegger’s frozen biceps!  © 2025 King Features Synd., Inc. DECEMBER 28, 2025

Fitness Classes for the Over-50 Crowd

E

xercise is a pillar of a healthy lifestyle. When individuals exercise regularly and pair physical activity with a healthy diet and smart lifestyle choices, they can extend their life expectancies and sleep well knowing they’re doing everything they can to increase their chances of enjoying a limitless retirement.

Adults over 50 know it’s not always so easy to exercise. Hectic schedules can make it seem like there’s little time for exercise. And even when adults make time to break a sweat, they might find that traditional workouts combining strength training with cardiovascular exercise are too time-consuming and possibly even a little dull.

In such instances, fitness classes can take the place of more traditional exercise regimens. Various classes provide a challenging workout, and many can do so in an hour or less.

Pilates Improving balance, core strength and flexibility are three goals of Pilates. Pilates has an interesting history, as it was created by Joseph Pilates, a German prisoner of war who was imprisoned off the coast of England during World War I. Pilates and the exercising phenomenon he created ultimately made their way to the United States, where the routine was embraced by dancers looking for a way to aid their injury recovery. Pilates is now part of millions of individuals’ exercise regimens.

This low-impact exercise is designed to strengthen muscles and improve alignment and flexibility.

Achieving greater balance after 50 pays untold dividends for older adults, who can decrease their risk for falls and fall-related injuries by increasing their steadiness.

D E C E M B E R 28, 2025

SENIORLIVING this activity may be particularly beneficial for adults over 50 looking to reduce their vulnerability to falls as they grow older.

Spin Spin classes are a wildly popular exercise program that utilizes cycling to help people break a sweat.

Cardiovascular exercise is beneficial for a number of reasons, including its connection to heart health and even cognitive health.

Many people lament daily sessions on a treadmill or elliptical that they find boring. Spin classes involve the use of stationary bikes, but instructors typically guide class members through conditions that mimic outdoor cycling sessions.

Resistance and pedaling speed changes throughout a spin class, which serves to keep individuals engaged and burn lots of calories.

ticeable differences in stamina. The balance benefits of kickboxing are similar to those provided by Pilates, so

Dance Dancing is widely seen as a fun activity, and rightfully so, as few things can be as enjoyable as cutting a rug. But dancing also provides a great cardiovascular workout.

Local community centers and even some fitness facilities offer age-specific dancing classes, which the AARP notes are great for individuals who want to build core strength, improve bone health and protect their heart.

Adults over 50 who want to be more physically active can look to any number of fitness classes to break a sweat, build strength and have fun all at once. (MC) 

Kickboxing Sometimes referred to as Krav Maga, kickboxing is another unique and challenging class offered at many fitness facilities. Martial arts like kickboxing assist with weight loss and can help people improve their muscle tone, flexibility and stamina.

Adults over 50 who are not accustomed to physical activity may find their energy levels are low, but a few kickboxing sessions may produce noS U N D AY S I G N A L · 1 1

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s the heart of many homes, the kitchen is often for much more than cooking.

From morning coffee and gathering for family meals after long days at school and the office to entertaining loved ones on the weekend, functional, stylish lighting can make your kitchen truly shine — day or night.

Whether you’re planning a full-scale remodel or simply looking to refresh one of your most-used spaces, even modest lighting updates can enhance its aesthetic appeal and usability. From swapping out lightbulbs to replacing fixtures, adding smart controls and more, these ideas can help you brighten things up.

Add Balance with Layers

The most well-lit kitchens incorporate three layers of lighting: ambient, task and accent. Ambient lighting, typically from recessed ceiling lights or a centralized light fixture, provides general illumination and sets the tone for the space. Task lighting, such as under-cabinet light strips or a hanging fixture above an island, provides focused light over work zones like the sink, stove or countertops. Finally, accent lights in cabinets, baseboards or backsplash can add depth and drama, for a practical and inviting layered look.

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One of the simplest ways to upgrade your kitchen — or any room — is swapping old lightbulbs for energy-efficient LED bulbs. From cozy warm whites to bright white and amber hues, LEDs come in a variety of color temperatures to fit your space.

Plus, they typically last longer and use less energy than halogen, incandes-

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cent and fluorescent bulbs and they’re often dimmable, giving homeowners complete control over the space’s brightness and mood.

Make a Statement

A design feature all their own, lighting fixtures like chandeliers or pendants over the kitchen table or center island can instantly elevate your kitchen’s look and feel. For a sleek, modern aesthetic, consider polished chrome finishes; think brass or brushed nickel for warmth; or opt for matte black for stunning contrast. Remember to look for fixtures in finishes that complement your appliances and cabinet hardware to truly bring the space together.

Embrace Smart Technology

Even small updates can make a big difference when it comes to bringing your kitchen into the future. Swapping out old switches with smart options that allow you to adjust brightness throughout the day, schedule your lights to turn on or off automatically and change the color temperature from your smartphone or voice assistant can enhance usability and convenience while reducing energy usage.

Find more ideas to enhance your living spaces at eLivingtoday.com.

(Family Features)  DECEMBER 28, 2025

GARDENING

Lessons From the Garden for the New Year

By Jane Gates Signal Staff Writer

S

ome of us have made new year resolutions we hope will change our lives. Some have made less formidable promises to ourselves.

Others have decided to ignore the calendar as much as possible or just sit back and see what fate will bring.

I suspect my garden is in the third category and has paid as little attention to the human labeling of time as did my dogs to their dinner time after Daylight Savings Time rolled in.

For most other living creatures on this planet, time is not something to measure or categorize. But we humans tend to circumscribe our whole lives by years, months, minutes and sometimes even seconds. I guess it’s a control thing.

And maybe that’s one of the reasons I value my garden so much. It is a wise teacher. It teaches me that time will continue on no matter what I do or what beliefs I cling to — political, religious, economic or anything else. Seeds will sprout, leaf out and flower; fruit will drop seeds and die as newly formed seedlings sprout again.

I will make splendid plans and the weather or the wildlife will ignore them. And I will continue aging no matter how well I eat and exercise until the day I stop altogether.

So I have a choice. I can choose to feel badly about my short, egocentric period on this earth, or I can celebrate what a magnificent gift it is to be here and experience being a unique part of the awesome living tapestry of life. Considering how bleak the first choice is and how much fun the latter one is, why not go for the joyful one?

After all, the truth of the matter is that I can spend every day learning new things and passing them on.

This makes me feel even more a part of the complex dance of life. I can make someone smile, rescue a worm stranded on the sidewalk, pat a pooch and give a plant a happy home.

These are lessons my garden has shown me in so many ways. I don’t have to be rich, famous or admired to do something that makes a difference. I just need to participate in experiencing and honorD E C E M B E R 28, 2025

©ADOBE STOCK

ing the magical life on this awesome planet!

So, now that I realize I have everything I need to be happy and relevant in the coming new year, I’m gonna arm myself with shovel, fork and trowel, and I’m gonna go out there and do some good.

I can help people plan their gardens to feed their souls while doing my best to help balance our human use of soil, water and air with the harmony needed to care for the planet.

I can plant California natives where they will create homes and food for the local fauna. I can make a special area for amending soil so I can grow fresh healthy food and pretty flowers for cutting without using excessive water.

I can enjoy every day in the gentle air, the soft winter sun, the stimulating seasonal rains, and be thankful for having the daily reminder in my garden of what is truly important about being alive. And you can do the same.

Okay, now that I’m done with my proselytizing, here are some things we can all do at this time of year to feel fulfilled in the garden: • Plan to redesign your garden for more fun and productive beauty. Draw it out rough-sketched on paper, computer or formally measured and mapped so you can catch mistakes before they become expensive.

• Soil can be prepped for the spring. Amendments can be added where more organics are needed or soil needs to be aerated.

• Winter is the perfect time to fix or change irrigation systems.

• To keep weed germination down in open areas you will not get around to planting for a while try covering the soil with black plastic. It heats up in the sun and effectively kills many weeds germinating beneath. Just pull it off when you are ready to plant.

• Plant low-water lawns, trees and shrubs during winter months.

• Most of your pruning can be done at this time of year as well.

• Keep hoeing and pulling weeds as they sprout.

• Sprinkle wildflower seeds to bring riotous color to open areas.

• Plant drought-tolerant plants and low ground-covers to save water and defend from wildfires.

There are boundless opportunities to work with your landscape in January. You can use inclement days for shopping and designing. You can also just enjoy wandering through your landscape and watch the shows nature is presenting everywhere you look.

So, I wish you all a Happy New Year and lots of fun, healing and healthful gardening. It’s never too late to start learning all the lessons the garden has to teach. Just step outside, look, listen and learn!  S U N D AY S I G N A L · 1 3

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T

he health community has long praised the benefits of vitamins and nutrients derived from natural sources.

For those looking to improve their health or take preventative measures, these 10 natural super foods can be incorporated into your daily diet to help support your health: Green Tea Armed with a special type of antioxidants called polyphenols, green tea can decrease plaque formed in the arteries and can fight prostate cancer.

Rosemary Studies have shown this powerful spice can reduce the risk of stroke, as well as protect against Alzheimer’s disease.

Almonds Full of plant sterols and amino acids, almonds can help lower high cholesterol and promote muscle growth. These handheld treats are also rich in vitamin E, which can protect skin from sun damage.

Fatty Fish Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, fatty fish such as salmon, flounder and sardines can lower the risk of heart disease.

Bananas This easy, portable snack is loaded with essential potassium, which regulates the nervous system. Bananas also offer loads of vitamin B-6, which

PHOTO COURTESY OF GETTY IMAGES

aids immunity and metabolism.

Whole Grains These powerful body defenders have been known to boost immunity, protect against various cancers and reduce cholesterol.

Eggs These energy-packed breakfast favorites contain a special type of protein that helps build muscle strength more than other proteins. When compared to other breakfast foods, eggs can also keep you feeling fuller longer with fewer calories and fat.

Spinach Chock-full of magnesium, potassium and various vitamins and nutrients, spinach can prevent clogged arteries and protect against prostate and colon cancers.

Soy This protein-packed food contains isoflavones, which can aid in treatment and prevention of prostate cancer. Also, research from the Food and Drug Administration shows that 25 grams per day can help lessen the risk of heart disease.

Dark Chocolate Satisfy your sweet tooth and improve blood flow to the brain at the same time. Dark chocolate can also lower blood pressure and increase skin’s resistance to UV rays.

Find more health-conscious tips at eLivingToday.com. (Family Features)  DECEMBER 28, 2025

FINANCE

Benefitting from Financial Planning at any Life Stage

N

o matter your stage in life’s journey, it’s never too early or late to make financial plans. For military families especially, planning helps you withstand major transitions and gives you confidence about the future. From your first Permanent Change of Station to deployment and separation, you’ll have many decisions to make and high-priority items on your to-do list, including managing your finances.

Here are tips to get you started.

Begin with the Basics: Savings

Developing a savings plan is a great place to start.

Even when you’re starting out in your career, developing the habit of setting money aside from each paycheck can help you build an emergency fund for unexpected events. One approach is to open a separate savings account for that purpose and have a small portion of each paycheck automatically deposited into that account, so you don’t even have to think about it.

How much should you strive to save for an emergency fund? Many experts recommend saving 3-6 months’ living expenses to provide a cushion in case of job loss, unanticipated repairs or other unexpected needs.

“The amount of money needed to maintain financial security can vary widely depending on your individual circumstances,” says Jaspreet Chawla, senior vice president of member and deposit products at Navy Federal Credit Union. “That’s why it’s essential to assess your personal financial situation.

If you’re able, try to consistently set aside a portion of each paycheck and aim to save even more, when possible, to build a stronger safety net.”

Household Budgeting

While it may sound scary, budgeting is simply knowing how much money is coming in (your income) and how much is going out (your expenses). The key to a good budget is understanding the difference between necessary expenses, such as rent and utilities, insurance, groceries and transportation, versus discretionary spending like entertainment, dining out and vacations. It’s also important to remember that some necessary expenses can fluctuate, such as utilities at different times of the year.

Financial institutions frequently offer online tools D E C E M B E R 28, 2025

to help make budgeting and expense management easier. Navy Federal offers My MakingCents, a free tool to help members manage their money. It allows members to see all their accounts in one place, track spending by category, build custom budgets, and manage subscription services. The goal is to simplify budgeting for members, especially for things like subscription services, that are often easy to overlook or unintentionally overspend on.

As you review your expenses, be sure to include paying down debt as a necessary cost, since less debt will save money on interest down the road. You may find that you sometimes need to reduce discretionary spending and/or find ways to increase household income to help manage your costs so you can keep putting money toward savings and debt repayment.

“Budgeting starts with knowing your numbers,” says Thomas Racca, manager of personal finance management at Navy Federal. “Your budget should work with your life, not against it. Flexibility is key.”

Racca recommends starting with the essentials: “Track your fixed costs first — things like rent, mortgage, car payments and insurance. Then look at your past spending to get a realistic average for variable expenses like groceries, dining out and gas.

That’s where you’ll find opportunities to adjust.”

One of his top tips is to “treat savings like a bill. Pay yourself first, every month. Even small amounts add up over time and build financial confidence.”

Retirement Planning

Whether retirement is years away or just around the corner, the earlier you start saving for your retirement, the more confident you can be when you

approach that milestone. Each retirement plan type offers different benefits that can elevate your retirement savings.

Both Traditional and Roth Individual Retirement Accounts (IRAs) help diversify your retirement savings approach and allow you to contribute up to the limit at any time while you’re earning income.

A Traditional IRA is recommended if you’re expecting to be in the same or lower tax bracket when taking withdrawals, and contributions are potentially tax-deductible. You’ll enjoy tax-deferred growth now and pay taxes on withdrawals when you retire.

A Roth IRA is best for those who expect to be in a higher tax bracket when taking withdrawals, and who don’t need a deduction on taxes now. You’ll pay taxes on contributions now and enjoy tax-free withdrawals later.

Estate Planning

Planning for your loved ones’ future is important for protecting your assets, so your heirs won’t overpay taxes - and to ensure your wishes are honored.

A well-crafted estate plan can reduce the time, stress and financial burden if the unexpected happens.

Common estate planning documents include a will, trust, guardianship designations, financial powers of attorney and advance directives for medical decisions - also known as a living will. These tools work together to provide clarity and control over how your assets and care are managed.

Expert Personalized Guidance

Whatever stage you are at in life, it’s natural to have questions about your best next steps. To take the guesswork out of financial planning, Navy Federal Investment Services can help make your vision a reality, using either their online Digital Investor tool, or by meeting with one of their Financial Advisors.

“Your financial goals may shift over your career and lifetime, and what you consider a financial accomplishment today could easily evolve with changing circumstances,” says Michael Dale, vice president of investment services at Navy Federal Investment Services. “That’s why maintaining a relationship with a trusted financial advisor or institution is key and ensures your financial strategy adapts with you, so you’re always making the most of your money.” (BPT)  S U N D AY S I G N A L · 1 5

PETCORNER

Pet Corner

Detector Dogs: Agriculture’s Best Friend

T

hey may be cute, fluffy and friendly, but some dogs also have an important job: protecting America’s food supply.

By deploying specially trained beagles, Labrador retrievers and Jack Russell terriers, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Animal Plant Health Inspection Services’ Detector Dog Program puts elite canines to work on the front lines at international airports, mail facilities and border crossings throughout the nation.

These furry sleuths maneuver between passengers and luggage to search, locate and respond to the presence of banned fruits, plants and meats that may harbor damaging insects and diseases that threaten the country’s agricultural production and natural resources.

The program was started in 1984 and soon grew in demand. By 2009, APHIS opened a 17-acre National Detector Dog Training Center near the Atlanta International Airport. At the center, dogs and their handlers go through an 8-10-week training program to learn how to inspect passenger luggage and handbags for agricultural goods such as fruits, vegetables, beef and pork.

Detector dogs patrol ports of entry, borders and airports to keep harmful pests, like invasive fruit flies, out of the country. For example, labrador retrievers and their handlers protect the nation’s fruit

16 · SUNDAYSIGNAL

by patrolling citrus orchards along the Texas-Mexico border in search of infested or diseased crops.

Safeguarding U.S. agriculture and natural resources is part of the program’s mission, but APHIS’ Detector Dog Program also partners with countries like Canada and Taiwan to supply guidance, training and testing of canine detection. There are even detector dog teams on the job at cargo airports throughout countries in the Pacific, tasked with identifying invasive species and stopping them from reaching Hawaii. The work these dogs and their handlers do is critical to help stop the spread of invasive plant and animal pests and diseases that could ravage America’s agriculture.

A detector dog’s career spans 6-8 years before they retire at 9 years old. At retirement age, 90% of dogs are adopted by their handler. In the rare case they are not, the handler will recommend a good home

and a successful adoption program ensures all dogs are well placed.

Constantly on the lookout for new pups, APHIS works closely with animal shelters, rescue groups and private individuals to find the right dogs for the job from anywhere in the country. New recruits are 1-3 years old, heartworm negative, have high food drive and are environmentally and socially friendly. The ideal candidate is often that high-energy, hard-to-handle pooch who simply needs a job and a purpose.

If you or someone you know would like to help the program grow its squad of super sniffers, email usdacanineadoptions@usda.gov, call (887) 797-3899 or learn more at aphis.usda.gov/aphis/ourfocus/ planthealth/ppq-program-overview/nddtc. (Family Features)  DECEMBER 28, 2025

PETCORNER

The Myth of Seasonal Heartworm Prevention

T

he world’s deadliest animal isn’t a lion, tiger, bear or venomous snake. It’s a tiny but bloodthirsty insect: the mosquito. And the assumption of many pet lovers that mosquitoes are just a seasonal threat may be putting their four-legged family members at risk.

Mosquitoes harbor and transmit a variety of life-threatening diseases to people and their pets, thus earning the “world’s deadliest” designation. One of the most serious and prevalent mosquito-borne diseases in pets is heartworm disease — a disease characterized by foot-long worms that obstruct the lungs and arteries of pets, causing issues that range from coughing and vomiting to serious breathing problems and heart failure.

Pitfalls of “Seasonal” Heartworm Prevention

While heartworms can be easily prevented with medications prescribed by veterinarians, the American Heartworm Society (AHS) notes that more than a million pets in the United States have heartworms.

A recent AHS survey revealed a leading reason: many pet owners stop giving their pets heartworm preventives during the fall and winter, unknowingly putting their pets at risk.

In fact, while more than 9 in 10 veterinarians surveyed by the AHS reported they recommend year-round heartworm prevention, 7 in 10 cited the failure of pet owners to follow this recommendation as a leading cause of heartworm infection.

The mistake many owners make

is to assume the risk of mosquitoes transmitting heartworms ends with the change of season. Following are three reasons this thinking is flawed:

• Weather patterns are warming and unpredictable. In recent years, winter temperatures have reached the 60s — and occasionally even the 70s — in cold-weather regions like the Midwest and Northeast. While mosquitoes are dormant during cold weather, they can become active again on warm days.

• Mosquitoes come indoors and continue to feed on pets. Like us, these insects know to come in from the cold. They often congregate near doorways or in garages, waiting for their chance to sneak inside. Once in your house, it’s possible for fe-

male mosquitoes — which feed on blood to reproduce — to survive for up to a month or more.

• Urban and suburban areas foster the development of protected “heat islands,” where temperatures can be up to 20 degrees warmer than the surrounding countryside. Buildings, vehicles and concrete surfaces trap heat during the day, keeping temperatures well above normal. This allows mosquitoes to stay active and dangerous well into the cool-weather months.

Rather than asking pet owners to guess when the world’s deadliest animal is no longer “in season,” the AHS recommends giving pets heartworm prevention year-round. It’s a simple step that can make a life-and-death difference. (SPT) 

KEEP YOUR SERVICE ANIMAL Fair Housing & Animals

The federal Fair Housing Act (FHA) makes it illegal for landlords to refuse to make necessary and reasonable accommodations, or changes, to their rules and policies for people with disabilities.

Allowing a disabled tenant to live with their companion or service animal is a common reasonable accommodation under the FHA. This includes waiving an existing “no-pet” policy for tenants with mental or physical disabilities who require an animal for medical purposes.

The Housing Rights Center is a non-profit organization established in 1968 to actively support and promote equal opportunity and freedom of residence to all persons without regard to their race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, national origin, familial status, disability, marital status, gender identity, gender expression, age, source of income, or other characteristics protected by law.

It is Illegal for your landlord to: •

Deny you the right to live with your companion or service animal

•

Charge you a pet deposit fee or other surcharge

•

Not allow your companion or service animal to be with you in common areas

Call the Housing Rights Center for free assistance at (800) 477-5977 www.housingrightscenter.org D E C E M B E R 28, 2025

S U N D AY S I G N A L · 1 7

PUZZLES

CROSSWORD TIME

SOLUTIONS

18 · SUNDAYSIGNAL

DECEMBER 28, 2025

Opinion

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

READERLETTERS

The Definition of Happiness The Declaration of Independence states that among our unalienable rights are Life, Liberty and the Pursuit of Happiness. Most of us can define “life” and “liberty,” at least in practical terms. Happiness is far more elusive.

Is it something that can be defined objectively, or is it a deeply personal experience, different for every American? In the 20th century, the Beatles sang that money can’t buy you love, but in 21st-century America, we are constantly bombarded with the message that money can buy you happiness.

In a capitalist society, this message is hardly surprising. But it is worth asking whether this is what the founders had in mind. In 1776, there were few nonessential goods to buy. The consumer culture would not appear until the 1920s, when radio played a role in advertising not unlike that of today’s smartphones and social media. In his recent documentary on the Revolutionary War, filmmaker Ken Burns tells us our nation’s founding fathers did not equate happiness with wealth or accumulation of material things, but with learning and self-improvement.

This is not an argument against consumerism. We must come to terms with the idea that the definition of happiness may have changed.

Still, that new car smell doesn’t last forever, and a new gaming console will become obsolete. Although our founding fathers were flawed in many ways, they had the wisdom to know happiness derived from possessions can be fleeting, while happiness from learning and self-improvement is lasting.

I hope everyone’s New Year is filled with good health and long-lasting happiness, however you define it.

Philip Wasserman Stevenson Ranch Submit a Letter to the Editor

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D E C E M B E R 28, 2025

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

Why Do You Believe That?

By David Hegg

S

omeone came up with the haunting truth that what actually died during COVID was trust. We became a nation of skeptics. Many began to doubt what we’d been told about the origin of the virus, the effectiveness of masks, the safety of vaccines, and especially the reliability of those feeding us everything from the daily news to the spate of governmental mandates and restrictions. And yet, sadly, in the years since COVID, we’ve come to experience an even more serious malady.

Living as a skeptic is quite challenging. Something within us cries out for clarity. We intuitively need a foundation that assures us we know what is true, real and happening in our world. We crave certainty, yet this craving can drive us away from critical assessment, even as we are bombarded with more new information in a day than our founding fathers contemplated in their lifetimes.

Here’s my assessment. Please bear in mind this is an opinion column, not a deeply researched, academically supported, peer-reviewed argument. We are increasingly becoming people who unquestioningly believe what we like, what we want to be true. The rapidly growing political divide in our country has spawned a perspective — a dangerous one! — that convinces us we have a firm grasp on the facts and their meaning when we’re really just preferring what we want to hear. We’ve become so divisive that we only believe what “our side” is saying, what our people are explaining, what our “tribe” is proclaiming.

The contrast between the reporting of Fox News, Newsmax, and the Wall Street Journal, and that of the New York Times, MSNBC, and HuffPost, is emblematic of this. Those on the right ridicule MSNBC but accept and believe the world according to Fox, while those on the left deride Fox and swear by MSNBC and HuffPost.

The grave consequence of this emerging “my side is always true” ideology is that our society is losing its “thinking grid.” Many no longer run what they hear from both sides through a rational, critical-thinking framework. Too many swallow what they’re being fed because it makes them feel good and grounded.

In what may seem an arrogant attempt to help you

remain profitably skeptical, here are a few suggestions. First, disregard signs of bias such as ridicule, demeaning language and personal insults. Known as ad hominem, it is fallacious to undermine an argument by attacking the person making it. Second, insist that the facts are verifiable, rather than simply the foundation for biased innuendo.

Third, take time to determine if the facts as presented also reasonably lead to the conclusion reached. Fourth, break out of your habit of only listening to the news source that makes you feel the best. Go ahead and listen to those promoting the other tribe, using the first three suggestions above.

Understand the difference between complex, factbased reporting and opinion. It is too easy to allow opinion to shape your position. Take it from me, an opinion columnist, the only purpose behind my writing is to get you to think! Please take in what I’m saying, run it through your critical-thinking machinery, and decide whether it is worthy of a place in your decision-making apparatus. Do the same thing with your favorite blogger, podcaster, influencer, politician and pundit.

Lastly, as we approach the New Year, let me opine a bit further. Here’s the deal, fellow SCVers. Very few of us can have significant influence on national politics. Yes, by all means, vote, and do so intelligently and consistently. Yes, let our elected representatives know what you believe is best for our city, county, state and country. But don’t tell yourself that worrying and ranting about the national scene is of utmost importance to you and your family.

Instead, think about how we, from both sides of the aisle, can work together on the many nonpartisan issues that can make our wonderful SCV a safer and better place to work, play, love and raise a family.

If we believe we are “one nation under God, indivisible,” then we’d do well to stop demeaning the other tribe and start constructive dialogue. Who knows? 2026 may bring us greater clarity, stability and progress than we thought possible. Here’s hoping you and I have a safe, prosperous New Year!

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

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DECEMBER 28, 2025