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SundaySignal

Like our popular full-size Honeybells, Mini Honeybells are packed with rich avor and juicy goodness, but come in a size that ts in the palm of your hand. While “bell” is in their name and they’re part of the Honeybell family, Minis don’t always fully develop into a bell shape. But we can assure you they don’t lack in quality or taste! Rare Hale Honeybells are available in limited quantities for a limited time! Pre-order now to reserve your share of this year’s crop with this delicious deal!

Celebrate February’s National Food Days in the SCV

Who doesn’t enjoy a good excuse for enjoying a pizza and a margarita?

February is packed with national food days, celebrating not only pizza and margaritas, but also hot breakfast, chocolate souffles and many, many more.

Celebrate with visits to Santa Clarita Valley food hotspots.

Feb. 1 National Dark Chocolate Day

Feb. 2 National Tater Tot Day

Feb. 3 National Carrot Cake Day

Feb. 4 National Homemade Soup Day

Feb. 6 National Frozen Yogurt Day

According to Nationalday.com, Yogurt was first invented more than 4,000 years ago in the Middle East and India. Over the centuries, it slowly made its way across the world. But it wasn’t until the 1970s that the idea of freezing yogurt for a ‘healthy’ alternative was born.

Looking to celebrate National Frozen Yogurt Day? Here are a number of local locations, in alphabetical order.

• Golden Spoon, 27748 McBean Pkwy., Valencia 91354 is among the highest rated frozen yogurt shops in the SCV. A second location at 19375 Plum Canyon Rd., Suite C, Skyline Ranch Plaza 91350, is opening soon.

• Menchies Frozen Yogurt, 26865 Sierra Highway, Newhall 91321 and 28273 Newhall Ranch Rd., Valencia 91355.

• Pinkberry, 19013 Golden Valley Rd., Ste 125 Canyon Country 91387.

• Tutti Frutti Frozen Yogurt, 19401 Soledad Canyon Rd., Canyon Country 91351 and 24244 Lyons Ave., Newhall 91321.

• Yogurtland, 24266 Valencia Blvd., Valencia 91355.

Feb. 7 National Ice Cream for Breakfast Day

Feb. 8 National Pork Rind Day (add these to your Super Bowl LX snack tray.)

Feb. 9 National Pizza Day

National Ice Cream Day for Breakfast and Pork Rind day are slighting different from the norm. But if you looking to celebrate National Pizza Day, here are some ideas.

Pizza day celebrates all things pizza, including Chicago style, Brooklyn style, Neapolitan style, Detroit style among others. Everyone has their own “favorite pizza,” much like your mother’s spaghetti, everyone claims “their” favorite pizza is the best. In addition to the national pizza chains throughout the SCV, expand your pizza palate with these local pizzerias and enjoy a “pie.”

• Ameci Pizza and Pasta Santa Clarita, 28013 Seco Canyon Rd., Santa Clarita 91390.

• Chi Chi’s Pizza, 23043 Soledad Canyon Rd., Saugus 91350 and 27117 Sierra Hwy., Canyon Country 91351.

• Di Marco’s Pizza, 26570 Bouquet Canyon Rd., Unit A, Santa Clarita 91350 and 23758 Newhall Ave., Newhall 91321.

• Numero Uno, 26111 Bouquet Cyn. Rd., Ste B1, Santa Clarita 91350.

• Pizza Guys, 27667 Bouquet Canyon Rd., Santa Clarita 91350.

• Slice House by Tony Gemignani, 24250 Town Center Drive, Valencia 91355

• The Road Grill-N-Pizza, 26870 The Old Rd., Stevenson Ranch 91381.

• Tomato Joe’s Pizza Express, 27732 McBean Parkway, Valencia 91354.

• Tomato Joe’s Pizza and Taps, 19167 Golden Valley Rd., Canyon Country 91387.

• Toppers Pizza Place, 23710 Valencia Blvd., Valencia 91355 and 18417 Soledad Canyon Rd., Canyon Country 91387.

• Vincenzo’s Pizza, 20701 Plum Canyon Rd., Saugus 91350, 21615 Soledad Canyon Rd., Santa Clarita 91350 and 24504 1/2 Lyons Ave., Newhall 91321.

Feb. 11 National Peppermint Patty Day

Feb. 13 National Cheddar Day

Feb. 14 National Cream-Filled Chocolate Day

Feb. 15 National Almond Day

Feb. 17 National Drink Wine Day

While the origin of National Drink Wine Day is not known, it apparently has been a staple of human culture since 7000 BC.

The oldest known winery, according to National-

day.com, was found in a cave in Armenia. It is believed to be more than 4,000 years old.

So, like ancient cultures, maybe you should take a take a break and enjoy your favorite glass of wine at any one of these of the local offerings.

• Kindred Spirits, 24510 Town Center Drive Ste 120, Valencia 91355.

• Puchella Wine Tasting Room, 24261 Main St., Newhall 91321.

• Pagter Brothers Winery, Double Trouble and Hoi Polloi, 24338 Main St., Newhall 91321.

Feb. 19 National Chocolate Mint Day

Feb. 20 National Cherry Pie Day

Feb. 21 National Sticky Bun Day

Feb. 22 National Cook a Sweet Potato Day

Feb. 22 National Margarita Day

The origin of National Margarita Day is unknown and surrounded by stories and myths beginning around 1938.

Esquire Magazine’s December 1953 issue hailed the margarita as the Drink of the Month. The recipe was simple: 1 oz tequila

Dash of Triple-Sec

Juice of 1/2 lime or lemon

Pour over crushed ice and stir. Rub the rim of a stem glass with a rind of

lemon or lime and spin in salt. The popularization of the margarita was raised by the 1977 Jimmy Buffett song Margaritaville.

Whether you enjoy your margarita on the rocks or blended, here are some local areas to celebrate the day.

• Azul Tequila, 25387 Wayne Mills Place, Valencia 91355.

• Dario’s Mexican Restaurant, 24523 Newhall Ave., Newhall 91321.

• La Cocina Bar and Grill, 28076 Bouquet Canyon Rd., Santa Clarita 91350 and 28022 Seco Canyon Rd., Santa Clarita 91390.

• El Patron Mexican Bar and Grill, 23115 Lyons Ave., Newhall 91321.

• Margaritas Mexican Grill, 23320 Valencia Blvd., Valencia 91355. Reviews rave about Margaritas Happy Hour margaritas, which includes traditional margaritas and special, unique margaritas.

• Solita Tacos and Margaritas, 24201 Valencia Blvd. Ste 3470, Valencia 91355. Enjoy your favorite margarita at Solita’s Happy Hour, 3-6 p.m. Monday-Friday. Reviewers report that the restaurant’s “Cadillac margarita is wonderful, the best, made with fresh juices.”

• Sabor Cocina Mexicana, 23953 Newhall Ranch Rd., Valencia 91355. Large margaritas with seasonal specials. Sabor uses 100% agave tequila in its hand-crafted cocktails with homemade purées. The house margarita earns high marks from reviewers as does the “Organic Cadillac Margarita,” made with certified organic tequila, Grand Marnier and fresh juices.

Feb. 23 National Banana Bread Day

Feb. 24 National Tortilla Chip Day

Feb. 25 National Clam Chowder Day

Feb. 26 National Chili Day

Feb. 26 National Toast Day

Feb. 26 National Pistachio Day

Feb. 27 National Strawberry Day

Feb. 28 National Chocolate Soufflé Day

According to Delish.com, the two most important parts of a chocolate soufflé are chocolate and egg whites. Whipped egg whites are mixed with melted chocolate. The result is a rich chocolately dessert with puffed up, soft edges and a molten chocolate center. To celebrate this sweet day there’s

no better place than Salt Creek Grille, 24415 Town Center Dr #115, Valencia 91355. All desserts are made in house by Salt Creek Grille’s pastry chef. The Chocolate Ganache Soufflé is a Salt Creek Grille specialty made to order. The fresh baked double chocolate souffle is finished table-side with warm chocolate sauce.

In addition to the national day celebrations, February is National Hot Breakfast Month, National Cherry Month, National Bake for Family Fun Month, Great American Pies Month, National Grapefruit Month, National Canned Food Month, National Potato Lovers Month and National Snack Food Month.

To celebrate National Hot Breakfast Month head over to the Saugus Restaurant, previously known at the Saugus Cafe at, 25861 Railroad Ave., Santa Clarita 91350. The restaurant, which recently reopened, is known for its hearty hot breakfasts, which makes it the perfect destination to celebrate. 

PHOTOS ©ADOBE STOCK

Finding Your ‘Crowd’ in the Santa Clarita Community

Santa Clarita is filled with people looking for their crowd and many are finding it in the city’s growing web of clubs, classes and cause-driven groups. From official community listings and arts directories to volunteer hubs and adult sports leagues, residents can step into ready-made circles built around almost any interest — whether that means swapping sketchbook tips in Old Town Newhall, joining a service club, or lacing up for a neighborhood run.

Community Links

Think of Santa Clarita’s official Community Links directory as a one-stop gateway to getting involved locally. It’s packed with dozens of nonprofits and service clubs — each offering a different way to connect, give back or simply meet like-minded neighbors. The listings, all for organizations based within city limits, cover everything from health and youth mentorship to arts programs and nature groups.

At santaclarita.gov/community-links, you’ll find an alphabetized guide with short blurbs describing each organization’s mission and activities. That might mean discovering a creative outlet with the Santa Clarita Artists Association or exploring coastal conservation with Friends of the Santa Clara River. Families can get involved with youth-focused groups like Boy Scouts of America, Girl Scouts of Greater Los Angeles or the Boys & Girls Club of Santa Clarita Valley, while volunteers interested in community health might look into organizations such as Circle of Hope, which supports cancer patients locally.

There’s also a dedicated section for traditional civic and service clubs — the kind that have anchored community life for generations. Groups like Kiwanis, Elks, Jaycees, Optimists and Soroptimists continue to meet regularly, raising funds, planning events, and tackling local causes from scholarships to senior outreach.

Getting started is easy. Click through any group’s link or send an email for meeting times, membership details, and cost (if any). Most clubs meet monthly in familiar community spaces — restaurants, churches, senior centers, or local event halls

— and keep dues modest or rely on member donations.

Santa Clarita Artists Association

The Santa Clarita Artists Association is a nonprofit group dedicated to supporting local visual artists through regular meetings, art exhibitions, and its own 6th Street gallery space. The association welcomes adult artists and art enthusiasts of all skill levels — from beginners picking up a paintbrush for the first time to seasoned professionals.

General meetings are typically held once a month, often on a Monday evening, somewhere in the Valencia or Newhall area. Many of the gallery events take place right in Old Town Newhall, creating a lively connection to the city’s growing arts district. Joining the association involves annual membership dues, but the meetings themselves are generally free and open to the public, giving newcomers a chance to “try before they join.”

To learn more, visit www.santaclaritaartists.org.

Santa Clarita Runners

For those who like their community time with a side of endorphins, Santa Clarita Runners offers an easy way to plug into the local running scene. The longstanding club has more than 200 members and welcomes everyone from brand-new joggers to marathon veterans and social runners.

Weekly workouts range from track sessions and tempo or social runs to longer weekend outings on parks and trails around the valley, with an updated schedule posted online. Annual dues cover club membership, and most group runs are included, making it a low-barrier way to meet training partners and explore local routes.

For details on membership, the workout calendar, and how to get in touch, visit www.scrunners.org.

Santa Clarita Speed Skating Club

Ice sports fans can find their niche with the Santa Clarita Speed Skating Club, which focuses on shorttrack ice speed skating for both kids and adults. The club is open to beginners as well as experienced skaters and offers regular training sessions along with opportunities to compete at local ice facilities. Club dues and separate ice time or lesson fees apply, with specific pricing and session details available directly from the organization. Interested skat-

ers can access the club’s website at scssc.net.

Adult Sports Leagues

Those looking for team play can tap into a wide range of adult sports leagues offered through the city and community partners. Seasonal leagues in basketball, softball, volleyball and other sports are open to adults of all skill levels, with options for coed as well as men’s and women’s teams. Games are typically scheduled at city parks, school gyms, and sports facilities such as Central Park and the Santa Clarita Sports Complex. Fees are usually charged per team or per player each season.

Registration, schedules and league descriptions are available through the city’s online catalog at santaclarita.civicrec.com and via everythingscv. com/adultleagues.

Paseo Club

For a more resort-style experience, the Paseo Club in Valencia combines fitness, racquet sports, aquatics, and a busy social calendar in one private setting. Adults and families can choose from more than 60 weekly fitness classes, plus Pilates sessions, tennis and pickleball drills and tournaments, Masters swim and water aerobics.

The club also hosts frequent social events, making it as much a gathering place as a gym. Membership is structured with tiered monthly options, and prospective members can find pricing details, schedule a tour, or request more information at thepaseoclub. com.

©ADOBE STOCK

Be Kind to Yourself and Practice Self-Care in 2026

The holidays are over. The gifts have been unwrapped, the holiday cookies eaten, the eggnog tippled and the cheerful holiday lights taken down and returned to storage.

New Year’s Eve came … and went. Welcome 2026. Now what?

Many people enjoy the arrival of the new year and see it as a time of rebirth, growth and as a chance to start anew and make a serious commitment to self-improvement goals. For others, the new year is just another date on the calendar.

If you are seeking to try something different in 2026, a change from failed New Year’s resolutions or the “new year, new you” workout ethos, why not try practicing self-care?

Why Self-Care?

For many, the world today seems relentlessly stressful with politics, an increased cost of living and a relentless barrage of demands on our time, all-consuming in our waking hours.

Experts recommend regular doses of self-care that can save our sanity and our health.

The key benefits of self-care include the following. Reduces Stress and Burnout Helps manage daily pressures, lowering anxiety and preventing exhaustion.

Boosts Mental Health Improves mood, self-esteem, resilience and overall emotional well-being.

Increases Physical Health Linked to lower risk of chronic conditions like heart disease, better energy and improved sleep.

Improves Productivity Taking breaks and recharging actually makes you more effective, in your career, your job and in all aspects of life.

How to Start

Start small. Even 5-10 minutes of a relaxing activity can make a difference. Be intentional, schedule it like any other important appointment.

Listen to your needs, identify what you need in the moment, whether it’s rest, connection or stimulation.

Andrea M. Slominski, Ph.D., a women’s midlife coach, speaker and author with a practice in Santa Clarita, said self-care is important physically and mentally.

“Every week we all need to take time to unplug, turn off the television, put down the phone, get off the computer. One of the easiest things you can do is go outside,” she said. “Go for a walk. Move your body, move your thoughts. Even a half-hour walk can change your state of mind.”

Walking not only allows time for the mind to calm, but also for the body to move. Moving is important to prevent stiffness and to keep joints healthy.

Nature

“Being in nature is a way to refresh yourself,”

said Slominski. “Be mindful and watch the change in seasons. It might not be as obvious in the SCV compared to other locales, but you can observe the blooms and the buds on the trees.”

In the Santa Clarita Valley, access to nature is extensive and free. The city offers more than 100 miles of trails and paseos for various outdoor activities like walking, jogging and biking.

Plus the city has 40 parks where you can picnic, play games and enjoy various outdoor activities.

The county offers free access to the Placerita Canyon and Vasquez Canyon Natural Areas. Castaic Lake Recreation Area charges an entry fee for cars. Towsley Canyon has several popular trails with options for free or paid parking.

Sleep

Slominski said one of the most important self-care activities is sleep.

“If we don’t get enough good sleep, it can cause a host of physiological and psychological problems,” she said. “Sleep is important for our body and mind to be able to renew itself, heal itself. The foundation for all self-care is sleep.”

Among the reasons why your body needs sleep:

• Sleep organizes and strengthens new information, integrating it into long-term memory.

• The brain’s glymphatic system clears out toxins that build up during the day.

LET THE PROS HANDLE IT!™

A New Year, A Shared Purpose

The strength of a thriving community is measured not only by where we live, but by how we show up for one another. With the new year in full swing, one of the most meaningful ways to make a positive impact in Santa Clarita is by becoming a City volunteer. Each year, thousands of residents generously give their time to support events and programs that help keep our City clean, healthy and connected. Volunteering is more than service; it is an enriching experience that brings neighbors together and allows residents to take part in what makes Santa Clarita special.

and neighborhood improvement efforts, rely on volunteers to assist with much-needed services like spreading mulch, planting greenery, painting and removing litter. These large-scale efforts enhance shared spaces and help preserve the high quality of life Santa Clarita residents value.

From signature events to handson community projects, City volunteers play a vital role throughout the year. Annual events, such as the Santa Clarita Cowboy Festival and Light Up Main Street, presented by DrinkPak, are made possible thanks to the dedication of volunteers who assist with responsibilities ranging from setup to facilitating family engagement. These opportunities offer volunteers a meaningful, behind-the-scenes way to experience these community-favorite events while helping create lasting memories for residents and visitors alike.

Volunteers also play a central role in many environmental and beautification efforts across the City. Events like the Neighborhood Clean-Up and the annual River Rally bring residents together to care for parks, trails and riverbeds that define our community. In addition, City-led beautification projects, including Graffiti Removal Day

One unique opportunity to serve is Make a Difference Day, an annual event that brings neighbors together for a single day of collective action. Volunteers work side by side on a wide range of projects supporting local nonprofit organizations, City departments and community spaces, demonstrating the powerful impact of working together with a shared purpose. For those seeking ongoing opportunities, the City offers a variety of volunteer programs that depend on consistent community support. Individuals can help with the Summer Reading Program at all of the City’s library branches, provide mentorship through Youth Sports year-round leagues or practice outdoor stewardship through weekly Wednesday Trail Projects and bi-monthly Wildland Weed Warrior workdays.

I am continually inspired by the enthusiasm and dedication our volunteers bring to every project and event. Their commitment strengthens our community and reminds us that even small acts of service can make a lasting difference. To explore current volunteer opportunities or avenues to help a local nonprofit in the new year, visit SantaClaritaVolunteers.com, the City’s official volunteer website with the most up-to-date information on how to get involved.

Ken Striplin is the City Manager for the City of Santa Clarita and

be reached at kstriplin@santaclarita. gov. 

Easy Bites for the

Whether you’re tailgating with friends or hosting a watch party at home, every football fan needs a game plan to crunch, dip and cheer their way through opening kickoff, halftime and right down to the final play of the game.

Some of the best game day grub is hearty and savory but adding layers of flavor and texture can take recipes to the next level. For example, these Burger Bowls feature all the classic ingredients of a great burger, just without the bun. A tasty option for gluten-free guests or those who are cutting carbs, the bowls are made with Dandy Iceberg Lettuce from Duda Farm Fresh Foods, which boasts a legacy of quality, innovation and consistency in fresh produce cultivation since 1926.

Pulled pork, another tailgating treasure, gets an instant upgrade with the crunch of a fresh coleslaw topper and zesty pickled celery and jalapenos on the side. The winning play is to use crisp, fresh celery for the best flavors and a satisfying crunch with every bite. Since celery is 95% water and high in fiber, it leaves fans feeling comfortably full and ready to root for their favorite team. Visit dudafresh.com to learn more and find additional game day recipes.

Burger Bowls

Recipe courtesy of Casa de Crews

Prep time 10 minutes

Cook time 10 minutes

Servings 4

Burger Bowls

2 cups French fries, homemade or frozen

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 small yellow onion, diced

1 pound ground beef or ground turkey

1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Dandy Iceberg Lettuce, shredded

2-3 Roma tomatoes, diced pickle chips or spears, chopped cheddar cheese, shredded

Burger Sauce

1/3 cup mayonnaise

2 tablespoons ketchup

1 tablespoon Dijon mustard or yellow mustard

1 tablespoon pickle juice

1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

1 teaspoon onion powder

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

To make burger bowls Cook French fries according to package directions.

In medium skillet over medium-high heat, heat olive oil. Add onion and saute until translucent, 5-7 minutes. Add ground beef to skillet, breaking up meat with spatula. Add Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, paprika, salt and pepper; brown until cooked through. Drain and discard excess liquid and grease.

To make burger sauce: In jar, mix mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, pickle juice, Worcestershire sauce, onion powder, garlic powder and paprika well to combine.

Assemble bowls with layer of shredded lettuce, 3-4 ounces ground beef, diced tomatoes, pickles, cheddar cheese and 1/2 cup fries.

Drizzle with burger sauce and mix well.

BIG GAME

Pulled Pork Sandwiches with Pickled Celery and Jalapenos

Recipe courtesy of The Adventure Bite

Prep time 10 minutes

Cook time 10 hours

Servings 9-10

4 1/2 pounds pork shoulder or Boston butt

26 ounces sweet and spicy barbecue sauce

1/2 tablespoon garlic

1/2 tablespoon fresh cracked black pepper fresh sandwich buns

Dandy Celery, cut and pickled jalapenos coleslaw (optional) potato salad (optional) baked beans (optional)

Place pork in slow cooker.

Mix barbecue sauce, garlic and pepper. Pour over pork shoulder. Cook on low 8 1/2-10 hours or

high 6-7 hours.

Shred meat and serve on buns with pickled celery and jalapenos. Top with coleslaw, if desired. Serve with potato salad or baked beans, if desired. (Family Features) 

The Latest News on What’s Happening In Hollywood

During Hollywood’s Golden Age, movies had their own royalty with queens such as Greta Garbo, Marlene Dietrich, Jean Harlow, Merle Oberon, Katharine Hepburn, Bette Davis and Joan Crawford, to name some. They were major influences on women’s fashion. Garbo was eloquent, while Harlow was brassy but sexy. When Hepburn and Dietrich wore pants, it suddenly became alright for all women to wear pants. They were melodramatic to a fault, playfully sexy, or downright bawdy. When Eleanor Powell took on Fred Astaire, their dance duet was thrilling, opening the door for Ginger Rogers to be Astaire’s partner, which

was movie-musical magic! Crawford, who allegedly started in X-rated films, became a dancer in early musicals, and then she became the queen of the Metro-Goldywn-Mayer lot. When she made “What Ever Happened to Baby Jane?” (1962) (against Davis’ objections), it proved that negative chemistry could be dynamite!

Our current leading ladies are a lot different than the glamorous stars whom the major studios literally created and promoted.

Sunday-Thursday, Januar y 25-29, 2026

Zendaya, 29, started her career by lending her voice to three films before appearing in seven major films. When she became Spider-Man’s leading lady in four films, she also became Tom Holland’s love interest off-screen as well. The engaged couple have completed their fourth “Spider-Man” mov-

Top Movies

Jan 19, 2026

1. Avatar: Fire and Ash (PG13) Sam Worthington, Zoe Saldana

2. Primate (R) Johnny Sequoyah, Jess Alexander

3. The Housemaid (R) Sydney Sweeney, Amanda Seyfried

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

5. Greenland 2: Migration (PG-13) Gerard Butler, Morena Baccarin

6. Marty Supreme (R) Timothee Chalamet, Gwyneth Paltrow

of The Bone Temple, the infec ted are no longer the greatest threat to sur v val - the inhuman ty of the sur vivors can be stranger and more terr fying

DEAD MAN’S WIRE E 1:20 PM

Based on a true stor y, the 1977 kidnapping of a prominent banker grips the nation and turns the abduc tor into an outlaw fo k hero As the media frenzy peaks, the standoff becomes a spec tacle of desperat on, defiance and b urred justice wh ch resonates even today.

MARTY SUPREME E 12 50 4:10 7 20

Mar ty Mauser, a young man w th a dream no one respec ts goes to hel and back in pursuit of greatness

SONG SUNG BLUE C 1:00 4:00 7:00

Based on a true stor y, two down- on-the r-luck music ans (Hugh Jackman and Kate Hudson) form a joyous Neil Diamond tribute band, prov ng t s never too late to find love and fol ow your dreams

THE HOUSEMAID E 1:10 4:10 7:10

From d rec tor Paul Feig, the fi m plunges aud ences into a tw sted wor d where per fec tion s an llus on, and

C 4:00 PM

HAMNET tells the power ful ove stor y that inspired the creation of Shakespeare’s

s as t seems

ie (due on July 31).

But Zendaya didn’t stop there. … She has “Dune: Part Three” coming on Dec. 18 and “Shrek 5” out in June 2027. She also has extensive TV credits, including the upcoming third season of “Euphoria.”

Nicole Kidman, who is one of the highest-paid actresses in films today, began making movies in 1983 and has completed over 90 films. In the process, she won an Oscar for “The Hours” in 2003, a SAG Award, six Golden Globes, and two Emmys. Upcoming for her in September is “Practical Magic 2,” as well as “The Young People.”

Kidman also starred in 26 films that were made for TV and several series, including the Amazon Prime Video series “Scarpetta,” which drops in March, and Apple TV+’s “Margo’s Got Money Troubles,” which drops in April.

Margot Robbie’s 31st film was “Barbie,” and her take of the $1 billion box-office grosses was $12.5 million. Her 36th film, “Wuthering Heights,” opens on Feb. 11.

7. Anaconda (PG-13) Jack Black, Paul Rudd

8. The SpongeBob Movie: Search for SquarePants (PG) Tom Kenny, Clancy Brown 

© 2025 King Features Synd., Inc.

Sandra Bullock has made about 50 films, won an Oscar for “The Blind Side” (2009), and was paid $70 million for “Gravity” (2013) and $20 million for “The Lost City” (2022). Her film with Kidman, “Practical Magic 2,” opens in September.

Scarlett Johansson’s 80 films have grossed over $15.4 billion worldwide. Her most recent effort was “Jurassic World Rebirth.” She has Netflix’s “Ray Gunn” and the crime drama “Paper Tiger” coming in 2026.

Today’s female stars aren’t brainless beauties in gorgeous gowns but beauty-less brains who are less concerned with show business and more concerned with the business of “show!” 

© 2025 King Features Synd., Inc.

Actress Greta Garbo for “Conquest” (1937) Courtesy of Metro-GoldwynMayer

Live Life Healthier

Finding a Fitness Facility That Pulls Its Weight

There is no secret formula to guarantee a healthy life, but eating a balanced diet that prioritizes nutrient-dense, low-calorie foods and getting the recommended amount of exercise each week might be as close as it gets. For a good portion of the population, physical fitness involves visiting a fitness facility. There are an estimated 205,180 health and fitness clubs worldwide and approximately 185 million gym memberships, according to data from Statista. Around 25% of the population had a membership to a gym, studio or other fitness facility in 2024, ac-

cording to a recent survey from the Health & Fitness Association.

Considering the vast array of gyms and fitness facilities available to consumers, finding a place to start or continue one’s fitness journey may require a little leg work. To find the right place, individuals can consider these points when touring locations.

Identify your needs and wants First, decide what is most important to you in a facility. Do you want a location that prioritizes group classes? Do you pre fer a traditional gym where free weights are more

abundant than machines? Are you in need of a facility with early-morning hours or one that has a pool? Make a list of your preferences.

Consider convenience Although a gym three towns over may have all of the bells and whistles you want, consider the likelihood that you’ll travel there often enough when the exercising bug bites you? A facility that is relatively close to home or the office makes it much easier to stay consistent with your

GlovedEra is More Than a Boxing Gym

GlovedEra Boxing is more than a boxing gym — it’s a community built on discipline, respect, and growth. We teach real boxing fundamentals while helping people improve their fitness, confidence, and mindset. Our doors are open to beginners, competitors, and anyone looking for structure and positive change.

What I love most is seeing people change — not just physically, but mentally. Watching members gain confidence, discipline, and belief in themselves is the most rewarding part. The gym becomes a second home where people support each other and grow together.

GlovedEra Boxing isn’t a trend or a quick workout. We focus on fundamentals, consistency, and accountability. Every class is structured, every member is supported, and every athlete is pushed to grow at their own pace. We train character just as much as we train boxing.

GlovedEra Boxing was founded by a Santa Clarita local who grew up in this community and graduated from Sierra Vista Junior High and Canyon High School. The gym was built from a passion for boxing and a desire to give back to the place that helped shape who I am. I wanted to create a positive space where hard work, respect, and growth are valued.

I recommend GlovedEra Boxing to anyone looking for more than just a workout. If you want real coaching, accountability, and a community that

truly cares — especially from someone who grew up right here — GlovedEra Boxing is the place for you.

26320 Diamond Place, Suite 150, Santa Clarita, CA 91350, (661) 812-4781/ (661) 268-6198, glovederaboxing. godaddysites.com 

Santa Clarita’s ONLY Janitorial Supply Store

About Us

SCV Janitorial Supply offers a full line of Janitorial Supplies & Equipment and Breakroom Supplies. With over 30 years of industry experience, we partner with our customers to meet their unique needs. Our inside and outside sales teams have extensive product knowledge to serve all your supply requests.

Open to the Public:

Monday–Friday, 8 AM to 5 PM

Address: 25345 Ave Stanford #201, Valencia, CA 91355

Phone: 1-661-775-5677

Website: www.scvjanitorialsupply.com

Our Specialties

We stock a wide range of products including:

• Toilet paper, paper towels, trash liners

• Floor strippers, floor finishes

• Hand care products, mops, brooms, squeegees

• Cleaners, degreasers, disinfectants

• Dispensers, air care products

• Carpet care, feather dusters, trash cans, gloves

• Breakroom essentials like hot cups, cold cups, plates, napkins, and plastic cutlery

• Cleaning equipment like carpet cleaners, floor buffers, and automatic scrubbers

We not only sell commercial cleaning equipment but also repair them as well.

Our History

Established in 2018 to fill a need in the Santa Clarita Valley, SCV Janitorial Supply is the only janitorial supply store in the area. We offer same-day or next-day free delivery.

Stop by our store or call us for a free quote. Our sales team will gladly visit your business to help you get the supplies you need. 

How Nutritional Needs Change With Age

The human body undergoes an assortment of changes over the course of a lifetime. Some changes are visible to the naked eye, but many more are not. The body’s changing needs in regard to nutrition is one alteration that people cannot see.

Nutritional needs change as the body ages, and recognition of those changes can help people rest easy that their diets are working in their favor and not to their detriment.

Calorie Needs

The body requires fewer calories as individuals reach adulthood. That’s because muscle mass begins to decrease in adulthood while fat increases. The National Institutes of Health notes that muscles use more calories than fat throughout the day, so it makes sense that a body experiencing a decline in muscle mass will require less calories than one in which muscle mass is on the rise. No two individuals are the same, and some adults exercise more than

others. So it’s best for adults to consult their physician to discuss their own calorie needs and then adjust their diets based on such discussions.

What to Eat

The American Heart Association notes aging adults’ calories should come from nutrient-dense foods like vegetables, fruits, whole grains, lean meat, and low-fat dairy. This recommendation aligns with adults’ declining calorie needs, as nutrient-dense

foods contain ample amounts of protein, vitamins and/or minerals but do not contain a lot of calories.

Water Needs

It’s vital to make a concerted effort to drink water each day. The Office of Disease Prevention and Health Promotion notes that the sensation of thirst declines with age. Aging adults who are unaware of that unique biological reality may be risking dehydration because they are not compelled to drink water throughout the day. The Cleveland Clinic notes that dehydration can contribute to dizziness, weakness and lightheadedness, among other symptoms. The body still needs water as it ages, and seniors taking certain medications may need more than usual due to medication-related fluid loss.

These are just some of the ways nutritional needs change with age. Adults are urged to pay greater attention to diet as they age and make choices that can counter age-related changes in their bodies. (MC)

SELF CARE

Continued from page 7

• Adequate sleep improves attention, problem-solving, creativity and decision-making skills.

• Sleep is essential for tissue repair and for your immune system to help fight infections.

Touch

Suzette Sinclair, a Certified Massage Therapist in the Santa Clarita Valley, said regular massage offers a host of positive self-care benefits.

“Regular massage therapy offers both mental and physical benefits,” she said. “It is an important part of any self-care routine. Benefits include reduced stress, anxiety and pain by improving circulation, flexibility and muscle tension, aiding in recovery, sleep and overall mood and energy levels.”

Smell

Smell is an often-overlooked area of self-care. Think about the smells that trigger happy memories or feelings of safety and comfort.

Realtors for years have used the trick of warming a pan of vanilla in the oven to give a home the scent of fresh-baked cookies.

Use scent to infuse everyday activities, from morning routines to bedtime, with specific aromas. It helps signal your brain to shift states, promoting mindfulness, calm, or motivation.

In addition to what you smell, the practice of daily deep breathing, a relaxation technique using slow, full breaths, will calm your nervous system, reduce stress and improve focus.

Deep breathing is done by inhaling deeply through the nose (feeling your belly rise) and exhaling slowly through the mouth.

Nurture

Slominski said each individual has their own

GYMS

Continued from page 11

Identify fitness goals Shedding weight is a primary goal for many people. Others may want to build muscle. The former may require a fitness club that offers a mix of cardiovascular exercises and even specialized weight loss programs. Nutrition counseling also might be a feature to look for. For the latter, a facility that features comprehensive weightlifting equipment and offers resistance training classes might be a better fit.

Seek some expert guidance If you don’t know where to start getting fit, a gym with personal trainers can be a wise investment.

Evaluate the look and feel Visiting various gyms can help you compare apples to apples. Look for things like cleanliness and maintenance in all areas, including locker rooms and workout spaces. Check to see if

unique blueprint for self-care and special ways to nurture themselves.

“Find time to do what brings you joy,” she said. “I think as adults we forget to play. Play is something you do for the sheer joy of it.”

Play comes in all forms, Slominski said.

“You can just sit in a small nook and read, enjoy a craft, visit the beach, window shop, anything that you enjoy that is out of your routine that makes you lose track of time,” she said.

Play allows the brain to enter into the flow state and gives it a chance to rest from constant overstimulation.

Now is the time to implement your 2026 self-care plan. 

there is enough equipment to accommodate everyone during your typical workout time. Evaluate the atmosphere and vibe of the gym. You want it to feel comfortable and welcoming.

Check out the gym schedule Be sure to see if class schedules or operational hours align with your workout needs.

Learn the costs of membership Fitness on Demand says the average cost of a gym membership is $59 per month. Budget gyms can cost as low as $10 per month, while elite or boutique clubs may be as much as $100 monthly. However, the International Health, Racquet & Sportsclub Association says nearly 40% of gym members pay less than $25 monthly for membership.

Fitness-minded individuals have different factors to consider when shopping around for fitness facilities. (MC) 

Home Comfort Hacks

As temperatures fluxuate between cool and cold concerns may turn to keeping the home cozy. However, keeping your home comfortable doesn’t mean undergoing a full-scale renovation. In fact, with a few smart upgrades, you can create a warm, inviting space — while improving your home’s energy efficiency, too.

Consider these cool-weather comfort hacks, inspired by the experts at Simonton Windows & Doors, who have delivered high-quality replacement windows and patio doors designed to enhance the appearance, security and comfort of homes around the country for more than 75 years.

Install a Smart Thermostat

One of the easiest ways to increase comfort while also reducing heating costs, is to install a smart thermostat which allows for automatic temperature adjustment. Not only does it keep your home warm while it’s occupied, it conserves energy when you’re away. Over time, these intelligent devices learn your schedule and habits, and can be controlled remotely from a smartphone to let you turn on the heat prior to arriving back at home.

Replace Older Windows

If your windows are drafty or difficult to open, it may be time to upgrade. Modern replacement windows can dramatically improve energy efficiency and insulation. High-quality options from Simonton, including DaylightMax and 6200 Sliding

Windows and 5500 and 6500 Double Hung Windows, meet the highest standards of performance and reliability, having successfully earned the prestigious Good Housekeeping Seal following rigorous testing. Designed with security and weather resistance in mind, these windows are known for their durability, wide range of styles and advanced energy-saving features.

“This is a testament to the unwavering commitment we have to bring the best products to building professionals and homeowners,” said Kate Land, vice president of product and innovation at Cornerstone Building Brands, parent company of Simonton.

“For more than 75 years, the Simonton brand has given homeowners confidence that they are investing in windows that truly deliver the highest quality and performance. This recognition solidifies our place as an industry leader customers can rely on.”

Add Insulating Window Treatments

Window treatments can do more than just add a design element to your home’s interior. Options like layered

drapes, thermal curtains or cellular shades can help reduce heat loss. Remember to open your curtains or blinds during the day to let in natural light and close them at night to trap warmth and keep your spaces comfortable. This can also help circulate the air in your home and reduce the chances of condensation on your windows when the temperature dips.

Seal Gaps and Keep Weatherstripping Clean

Even the smallest of gaps around windows or doors can allow cold air to seep in. Check weatherstripping for wear and tear, replace as needed and use expandable foam or caulk to seal large gaps. Keeping the areas around doors and windows clean can also help maintain a tight seal and prevent winter’s chill from invading your comfortable space.

Upgrade Patio Doors

Old or inefficient patio doors can let in drafts and drive up energy bills. Replacing them with energy-efficient models, such as Simonton Contemporary Sliding Patio Doors, can help maintain comfort and enhance your

home’s appearance. Fully customizable with a wide range of colors, interior woodgrains and hardware finishes, the doors are designed with a narrow frame for more natural light without sacrificing energy efficiency. Plus, optional high-density SmartCore foam can further improve thermal efficiency, allowing you to enjoy winter’s beauty from the comfort of the indoors.

Add Insulation

Inspect your attic, basement, garage and crawl spaces for spots where insulation may be lacking. An easy and affordable way to retain heat and improve efficiency, adding pre-cut insulation into bays between ceiling joists or blowing in loose-fill insulation over the existing layer can help keep your home warmer all season long. By making a few smart upgrades and prepping your space for the cold weather ahead, you can maximize comfort and energy efficiency. To ensure your home stays comfortable this winter and beyond, visit simonton. com for more solutions. (Family Features) 

When a Trip to The Gym Isn’t Feasible

The right workout routine can make a world of difference in a person’s life. When people like their fitness regimens, they’re more likely to commit to routine exercise, which can help reduce their risk for chronic diseases, make them less vulnerable to injury and improve their mental health.

No two people are the same, so a workout regimen that’s enjoyable and effective for one person will not necessarily appeal to another individual. Some people have no qualms about exercising in a gym, where strength-training machines and cardiovascular equipment facilitate fullbody workouts that promote healthy minds and bodies.

But others find gyms intimidating or can’t fit daily gym excursions into their schedules. Others may find working out in the same facility each day a little boring. That’s why it can be beneficial to find alternative means to exercising on those days when a trip to the gym isn’t feasible or appealing. Take to the Trails

The great outdoors can be a gym unto itself. Various outdoor activities can build strength and promote cardiovascular health. Hiking is one such activity. According to Harvard Medi-

cal School, the uneven terrain hikers encounter on trails requires more energy to traverse, which in turn burns more calories than walking on level surfaces.

Commit to Interval Training

Interval training has long been recommended to busy adults with hectic schedules. Interval training is exercise that involves periodic short bursts of intense physical activity followed by periods of rest or low-intensity activity. Interval training sessions tend to be shorter than moderate-intensity continuous training (MICT), but the periodic bursts of intense physical activity make interval training sessions highly effective workouts.

In fact, a 2021 study published in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health found that interval training provides similar health and performance benefits as MICT.

Challenging hikes can mimic the effects of interval training, as can additional activities such as jumping rope, cycling and swimming that do not necessarily need to be performed at a gym.

Embrace Your Inner Yogi

Yoga is another physical activity tailor-made for busy adults who

don’t have time to get to the gym each day. The characterization of yoga as a niche activity is no longer applicable, as participation among males in the United States alone grew from four million in 2012 to 14 million in 2022, according to Yogkulam.org.

Though global participation figures are hard to determine, market projections estimating the valuation of the yoga industry at $215 billion in 2025 are a testament to the popularity of this activity, which Johns Hopkins Medicine credits with improving strength, balance and flexibility.

Yoga also has become increasingly accessible since the pandemic, as Yogkulam. org notes 40% of yoga practitioners prefer virtual classes available through platforms such as YouTube that can be

streamed from the comforts of home. There’s no shortage of ways to fit exercise into your daily schedule, even on days when a trip to the gym is not in the cards. (MC) 

Pet Corner

Spaying Helps Prevent Cat Overpopulation

Between 100 and 150. That is the estimated number of kittens an unspayed cat can have in her lifetime. ABC Clinic Pet Refuge Animal Birth Control Clinic says in just one year, an unspayed cat who is allowed to roam outdoors can have three litters resulting in 12 kittens. One year later, those 12 kittens if kept unspayed, can have 144 offspring of their own. Such figures illustrate that the potential for feral cat overpopulation is high.

Cat overpopulation can be controlled if people learn more about how to keep cats safe and happy, which starts with spaying.

Spaying is a surgical procedure that removes the ovaries and sometimes uterus of a female cat with the intention of preventing reproduction. VCA Animal Hospitals characterize spaying as a major surgical procedure that requires placing the cat under general anesthesia. Most cats are able to return home within 12 to 24 hours of

surgery. Even though spaying is considered a major operation, the risk of complications is very low. Spaying is a routine procedure.

Today’s Veterinary Practice says for owned cats, the optimal age to spay is four to five months of age to catch the cat before its first estrus cycle. For cats in shelters, the optimal age could be as early as eight weeks of age. An older cat also can be spayed if it is adopted and hasn’t been altered. It’s always best to speak with a veterinarian about

spay choices to protect the health of the animal.

Spaying felines at an early age can reduce the large numbers of cats entering shelters and even prevent an assortment of health issues. (MC) 

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

PUZZLES

SOLUTIONS

Pied Piper of the SCV?

I have concluded from the tone and content of Andrew Taban’s columns, that he, much like New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani, exercises charisma and a compelling charm, thus inspiring devotion in others.

The “Pied Piper” from German folklore employed similar tactics.

In short, he is “dangerously” intelligent. Be careful, “children,” lest you fall under the magical spell and be led to ruin.

If you’re reading this letter, Andrew, I think you know what I’m talking about.

Either way, what you preach in your columns should be ignored by those who have the wits to do so.

To the rest, I abandon them to their fates, as in the Biblical story of the “Blind Guides” (Matthew 15:13-14).

I just love folk tales. In our next session we’ll examine the nature of political leadership with “The Emperor’s New Clothes.”

How many ways can I say this? Don’t listen to anything anyone tells you. Figure things out for yourselves.

Arthur Saginian Santa Clarita

Submit a Letter to the Editor

Include name, address & phone.

E-mail: letters@signalscv.com.

Mail: Letters to the Editor, The Signal, 25060 Avenue Stanford, Suite 141, Santa Clarita, CA 91355. Anonymous letters are not published.

ETHICALLY SPEAKING

‘What Happened?’ When Ethics Erode

“How did that happen?” I find myself asking that question far too often these days. How did a good guy get involved in illegal activity? How did a great company forget its moorings and slide into unethical behavior? How did an honored university get carried away from its foundations by the current of culture? And how did incivility, vile insults and threats, and outright lies become such a staple in our national discourse?

To find an answer, I started thinking about the times in my own life when I ended up being and doing things I never intended, making assertions and behaving in ways I knew, down deep, weren’t best or even right. Here’s what I found.

Our moral convictions and ethical standards act as guardrails to keep our thoughts and actions from bringing about a reputational smash-up, or worse, a fiery descent into the valley of disqualification. The stronger the guardrails, the more authentic the accountability, the more ethically ordered the life.

But what about when the ethical guardrails are allowed to decay, to shift, to drift, or become soft and easily pushed aside? What happens when convenience or pragmatism or greed or pride or lust – or whatever! - starts to erode the ethical barriers, leaving them easily rationalized and malleable?

I think we all know the answer because we’ve all experienced it. When the guardrails are softened, moved and eventually removed, ethical stability degenerates into chaos.

We all have a front-row seat to the devastating results happening in our society right now. When ethics erode, chaos and corruption explode. Just ask Richard Nixon, Bobby Bonds, Harvey Weinstein, Bill Cosby, Kevin Spacey, R. Kelly, or Lance Armstrong. And these are just a handful of the myriad who have abandoned their guardrails to satisfy their unethical and immoral desires.

So, that takes us back to the original question: How did that happen? While I can’t give a complete answer to every instance of ethical erosion, one key element is something we all know and can agree on.

The erosion of ethics starts with complacency. We become lazy in life, especially in those disciplines that thwart the temptations to evil in our world. We start thinking we’re strong enough, good enough and certainly better than most. Then

we overestimate our moral strength and ethical resolve, and complacency begins to produce other poisonous fruit.

One of these deadly fruits is compromise. We start giving ourselves an ethical hall pass. We consider that shaving the edges off our ethical standards poses no threat. After all, we’re outstanding, strong, and moral people, and little indiscretions here and there won’t matter. They don’t constitute a central fault line. We’ll be OK.

On too many occasions, I’ve sat with married men and women who, through tears of deep anguish, told me they never intended to have the affair. Somehow, little incremental lapses made leaving their ethical lane easier and easier as rationalization replaced conviction and pushed them over the edge into corruption.

I’ve also sat with business owners, church leaders, and members of now dysfunctional families whose lives and dreams have been shattered due to their own ethical lapses or those of their associates and relatives.

And the formula was always the same. Complacency empowers compromise, which makes us easy prey for corruption. And what’s worse, by the time we espouse ethical failure, we’ve often become professionals at spinning evil as good, lies as truth, and self-gratification as an inalienable right.

As we look at our own lives and those on the national scene, it is evident that America needs an ethical revolution. We must demand better of ourselves and our leaders. We need to fight a two-front war on ethical erosion with the weapons of truth, civility, and love of neighbor. We must oppose the notion that truth is relative, and everyone gets to decide what is true for themselves. We must reject incivility in all its forms, and remind ourselves that listening is a virtue, tolerance is essential, and robust discourse, including civil disagreement, is required if a pluralistic society is to remain both free and united. Where do we start? We’re told all politics are local. In the same vein, all ethics are personal. Ethical people create ethical families, neighborhoods, cities, states and countries. The good of America begins with us. We can’t do everything, but we can do something. And what we can do, we should do. And what we should do, by the grace of God … let’s do it!

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

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