Festive Fun Road Trips for Your Holiday Enjoyment
By Michele E. Buttelman Signal Staff Writer
There are places you can visit this holiday season that simply envelop you in so much holiday cheer you can’t avoid being infused with the holiday spirit. Even Scrooge himself would find himself smiling and calling out Happy Holidays to one and all.
If you find yourself feeling more like Ebenezer or the Grinch this season, perhaps one of these festive fun road trips is the medicine you need to recapture that inner child who believed in the magic of the season, and would try to stay awake to catch Santa in the act.
Hit the road to enjoy these holiday-themed experiences.
Big Bear Lake
Now through Jan. 1
Info www.bigbear.com/events/annual/christmas/
This Christmas town in the nearby San Bernardino Mountains is a perfect destination for Santa Clarita Valley residents looking to experience the season and enjoy winter activities and festivals.
Visit Big Bear Christkindlmarkt on Saturday, Dec 14. Christkindlmarkt is the ultimate German Christmas celebration with shopping, live entertainment, games and activities, a Wishing Tree and photos with St. Nick and Christkindl.
The Christmas Market & Craft Fair is Dec. 1415. Get into the holiday spirit at the Big Bear Lake Elks Lodge and shop unique, last-minute gifts.
Big Bear Theatre Project at the Performing Arts Center (39707 Big Bear Blvd., Big Bear Lake 92315) brings “A Christmas Carol” to the stage in a oneman performance, Dec 19-21 at 7:30 p.m. and Dec 22 at 2 p.m.
The Grand Menorah and Chanukah Celebration will be held Sunday, Dec. 29 at 4:30 p.m. Chabad of Lake Arrowhead and Big Bear hosts the third Annual Menorah Lighting and Chanukah Celebration in The Village.
Solvang Julefest
Now through Jan. 10
Info solvangusa.com/things-to-do/solvang-julefest
The annual Solvang Julefest brings Old World traditions to today’s Santa Barbara wine country. With authentic Danish-style buildings and windmills for a backdrop enjoy costumed carolers 4-7 p.m. on Saturdays in downtown Solvang.
Every evening during Julefest, Solvang Park will come alive with all that sparkles and shines. Enjoy a 10-minute light and music display on the hour each night through Jan. 5. The event is held in the center of all of Solvang’s holiday magic, including evening light shows on the hour.
The popular Solvang Julefest Candlelight Tours will be offered on select dates through Dec. 28. Stroll the streets of Solvang, accompanied by Christmas carols and learn about Danish traditions and Solvang history. Guided by a costumed host, all tour participants will receive an LED candle to hold during the tour.
Tour the lights of the magical Santa Ynez Valley with the Solvang Trolley Christmas Light Tourt that takes you through the storefronts and neighborhoods of the most Christmasy town in California. Estimated tour time is about an hour and 15 mins. Reserve tickets at bit.ly/4glXAGE.
Julefest comes to a dramatic end with the annual Christmas Tree Burn, a bonfire outside Old Mission Santa Inés on Friday, Jan. 10.
Mammoth Lakes Night of Lights
Saturday, Dec. 14, 5-10 p.m.
Info mammothmountain.com/things-to-do/ events
Experience the magic of the holiday season at Mammoth Mountain’s Night of Lights, an annual event that transforms the Canyon Lodge area into a dazzling winter wonderland.
The evening features an enchanting fireworks display, a torchlight parade down the slopes, live music and family-friendly activities. Perfect for all ages, the event celebrates the spirit of the sea-
son with food, drinks and a vibrant holiday atmosphere.
Arrive early to secure a spot for the best views of the fireworks and torchlight show. For an enhanced experience, guests can reserve a special VIP ticket, which includes premium viewing access, exclusive seating, and complimentary treats.
Nevada City
Sundays – 15, 22, 1:30-6 p.m., Wednesdays – Dec 11, 18, 5-9 p.m.
Info nevadacitychamber.com/nevada-city-events/ victorian-christmas/
Experience Christmas past during the historic town of Nevada City’s Victorian-style celebration. Looking like a scene that could have sprung forth from a Charles Dickens novel, the town’s narrow, hilly streets, lit by glowing gas lamps and set against a backdrop of towering pines, can almost make you lose all sense of time.
Carolers in period dress, brass bands, and bagpipers fill the streets of this picture-perfect town, where the award-winning holiday movie “The Christmas Card” was shot. Munch on roasted chestnuts while enjoying a carriage ride past historic buildings with twinkling white lights.
Grass Valley
Fridays, now through Dec. 20, 6-9 p.m.
Info bit.ly/3ZF8mlV
For an unforgettable Gold Country experience, drive about 10 minutes from Nevada City to Grass Valley, where the 56th Annual Cornish Christmas Celebration commemorates the town’s historical ties with western England. Step into the warmth and wonder of an Old-Fashioned Christmas Street Faire, where the charm of a bygone era comes alive under twinkling lights and festive decorations. Stroll through streets lined with stalls brimming with handcrafted gifts, seasonal treats and local treasures. Enjoy a Cornish bag piper, walking Christmas Tree and Mrs. Claus and other entertainment in downtown Grass Valley at Main and Mill Streets, Grass Valley 95945.
Left: For an unforgettable Gold Country experience, visit Grass Valley, for the 56th Annual Cornish Christmas Celebration. PHOTO COURTESY GRASS VALLEY CHAMBER.
Right: Chabad of Lake Arrowhead and Big Bear will host the third Annual Menorah Lighting and Chanukah Celebration on Sunday, Dec. 29. PHOTO COURTESY CHABAD OF LAKE ARROWHEAD AND BIG BEAR.
First-Timer’s Guide to Kitchen Remodeling
Kitchen upgrades are among the most common renovation projects homeowners tackle. Even so, it’s a big project for a first-time renovation, and the final results are sure to be stronger with some detailed planning from the start.
Take into account these five tips from the experts at Wellborn Cabinet to help first-time kitchen remodelers achieve the kitchens of their dreams:
1. Plan Your Budget
Establish a clear and realistic budget. Factor in costs for materials, labor and some extra for unexpected expenses. Sticking to your budget can help ensure you enjoy the outcome of the project while avoiding financial stress. Your contractor can help you strike a balance between your vision and financial resources. You may also find it helpful to consult with a real estate professional who can ensure your plans are in line with the overall value of your home and neighborhood.
2. Prioritize Functionality
Design with practicality in mind. Ensure there’s enough counter space and storage to create an efficient workflow. Consider the kitchen work triangle; that is, be conscious of the travel pattern among the sink, stove and refrigerator.
Additionally, look for opportunities to incorporate functional storage in unexpected places. One example is the exposed end of a cabinet run or side of the refrigerator, where there is often wasted space. One example is a shallow cleaning utility cabinet from Wellborn Cabinet that fits a broom, dustpan and everyday cleaning supplies neatly, giving you practical access to frequently used supplies. A variation on this cabinet offers a spice rack designed for easy access to cooking essentials. Other options in the line include an over-fridge cabinet with a combination of shelves, sheet pan or cutting
board storage and a trash can-cutting board combination.
3. Choose Quality Materials
Consider factors such as durability, maintenance requirements and compatibility with your design aesthetic when selecting materials for your kitchen. You may be tempted to cut corners and stretch your money further, but quality materials are a critical element of successful renovations. Prioritize high-quality materials that stand the test of time. Durable countertops, solid cabinetry and reliable appliances typically save money in the long run, and they’ll enhance the overall look and value of your kitchen.
4. Hire Professionals
Work with experienced contractors and designers. Their expertise can help you avoid common pitfalls and ensure your remodel meets all safety and building codes. What’s more, these professionals have likely encountered and overcome all kinds of challenges, which means they’ll be well-prepared to help you navigate unexpected obstacles and provide a wealth of knowledge from previous clients to help make recommendations for the perfect finished space.
5. Stay Flexible
Be prepared for unexpected challenges and delays. Stay adaptable and open to changes and remember patience is key to achieving the kitchen of your dreams. Materials go on backorder and paperwork gets misplaced all the time. Set a realistic timeline for your project that allows for some hiccups and try to avoid becoming too rigidly attached to any single element of the design, so if you have to make a modification, it doesn’t feel like a monumental sacrifice. Look for more ideas and inspiration for your kitchen remodel at Wellborn.com. (Family Features)
Ideas for Kitchen Islands
Galley Kitchen Island This type of island is more functional than design-forward, conveniently adding extra storage and counter space. This conventional configuration works well in most kitchen layouts, both large and small, and can be constructed to fit almost any kitchen.
Double Kitchen Island Incorporating multiple islands — often called a double island kitchen –can improve traffic flow, increase storage space and seating, and create additional space for meal prep, cooking, washing and eating. Plus, islands are ideal for implementing design elements such as complementing materials and finishes, pops of color and unique cabinetry components including door styles and hardware.
Two-Tier Kitchen Island While you can cook and eat on any island, the two-tier creates a clear boundary where you can cook on one side and eat on the other. This all-encompassing island is perfect for larger families and homeowners who like to entertain.
Chef’s Kitchen Island If you want to showcase your cooking skills or have a private chef cooking for friends and family, a chef’s island is a unique solution. Installation requires the appropriate ventilation and electrical, which may be well worth it if you frequently cook for family or friends.
Round Kitchen Island Compared to a typical rectangular island, a rounded option is an eye-catching way to add more seating in your kitchen for entertaining family and friends.
‘Tis the Season for Holiday Film, TV, Theater
By Michele E. Buttelman Signal Staff Writer
There are certain holiday traditions that have held up over time. Enjoying the marathon presentation of “A Christmas Story” and debating the merits of “Die Hard” as a Christmas movie are two that come to mind.
If you haven’t started binge watching the annual slew of Hallmark Christmas movies you better get busy before they’re gone.
Movies
“Wicked” released Nov. 21 is a Christmas present to the world. Based on the record-breaking Broadway musical with music and lyrics by Stephen Schwartz and a book by Winnie Holzman, “Wicked,” turns “The Wizard of Oz” on its head, in a good way. If you ever wanted to know how the Wicked Witch became “wicked” and learn “the other side of the story,” you can’t miss this movie. An exceptional cast lights up the screen with Cynthia Erivo, Ariana Grande, Jeff Goldblum and Michelle Yeoh.
Other holiday highlights:
“Moana 2” in theaters now is the sequel to “Moana,” a Disney animated children’s movie which was released in 2016 and stars Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson as the demigod Maui. Moana and Maui head off in a new adventure in this film from Walt Disney Animation Studios joined by other returning characters from the first film.
“Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim” is releasing on Dec. 13. The film is a prequel, set 183 years before Peter Jackson’s “The Lord of the Rings” film trilogy. It’s an anime adaptation of Tolkien’s world. The cast includes Brian Cox, Miranda Otto and Gaia Wise.
“Mufasa: The Lion King” releases Dec. 20. This is a live action sequel to the 2019 live action film “The Lion King,” based on the famed Disney animation original released in 1994. In this sequel, the legend of Mufasa is told in flashbacks to young lion cub Kiara, daughter of Simba and Nala, while Timon and Pumbaa offer up comedy relief. The cast includes Aaron Pierre, Kelvin Harrison Jr., Seth Rogen, Billy Eichner and Blue Ivy Carter.
Television
It’s not Christmas without the traditional holiday classics like “The Grinch Who Stole Christmas,” “Rudolph the Red-nosed Reindeer” and “Frosty the Snowman.”
“Die Hard” starring Bruce Willis and Alan Rickman, will air on TNT Dec. 22 at 10:30 p.m. ET/ PT. TBS will air the movie at 8 p.m. ET/PT on Dec. 14 as well as 1 a.m. ET/PT the same day. The film is streaming on Peacock, Hulu, AMC+ and Prime Video.
“A Christmas Story” stars Melinda Dillon, Dar-
ren McGavin and Peter Billingsley, and follows a young boy and his family’s misadventures during Christmas time in the 1940s. Dec. 16: 7:45 p.m. and midnight, TNT. Dec. 24: Marathon starts at 8 p.m. on TBS and 9 p.m. on TNT; continues every two hours, until 8 p.m. and 9 p.m. Dec. 25. Also streaming on MAX.
“The Polar Express” Robert Zemeckis’ classic Christmas collaboration with Tom Hanks is streaming on Max.
“Elf” (2003) One of Will Ferrell’s most wellknown roles as Buddy the Elf will be streaming on Max.
“Dr. Seuss How the Grinch Stole Christmas” (1966). The animated version of the green Grinch will be available to watch via TNT on Dec. 15 at 7 p.m., 9:45 p.m. and 12:30 a.m. The movie will be on TBS Dec.14 at 10 a.m., Dec. 15 at 2:45 p.m. and 3:15 p.m. and Dec. 19 at 10 p.m. and 10:30 p.m.
Other holiday highlights include:
National Christmas Tree Lighting 8 p.m. Dec. 20, CBS.
Josh Groban & Friends Go Home for the Holidays 9 p.m. Dec. 20, CBS.
“Tyler Perry’s A Madea Christmas” 7 p.m. Dec. 22, CW.
The Wonderful World of Disney Presents “The Santa Clause” 8 p.m. Dec. 22, ABC.
The 47th Annual Kennedy Center Honors 8:30 p.m. Dec. 22, CBS.
The Wonderful World of Disney Presents “Home Alone” 8 p.m. Dec. 24, ABC.
“It’s a Wonderful Life” 8 p.m. Dec. 24, NBC. Christmas Eve Mass 11:30 p.m. Dec. 24, NBC.
Disney Parks Magical Christmas Day Parade 9 a.m. Dec. 25, ABC.
NBA on Christmas Day, Dec. 25
9 a.m.: San Antonio Spurs at New York Knicks, ABC.
11:30 p.m.: Minnesota Timberwolves at Dallas Mavericks, ABC.
2 p.m.: Philadelphia 76ers at Boston Celtics, ABC.
5 p.m.: Los Angeles Lakers at Golden State Warriors, ABC.
7:30 p.m.: Denver Nuggets at Phoenix Suns, ABC.
‘The Year: 2024’ 9 p.m. Dec. 26, ABC.
“Dolly Parton’s Mountain Magic Christmas” 9 p.m. Dec. 26, NBC.
Theater
Pantages Theater
Now through Feb. 2
“Wicked The Musical
6233 Hollywood Blvd., Los Angeles 90028
Long before Dorothy dropped in, there is another young woman, born with emerald-green skin, smart, fiery, misunderstood and possessing an extraordinary talent.
Feb. 15-June 22
“Harry Potter and the Cursed Child’ Be whisked back to Hogwarts and beyond your imagination for a one-of-a-kind journey. Winner of six Tony Awards including Best Play.
Ahmanson Theatre
135 N Grand Ave., Los Angeles 90012
Dec. 10-Jan. 5
“Once Upon a Mattress”
Musical theatre legend Sutton Foster returns to the Ahmanson Theatre as Princess Winnifred in this beloved musical fairytale.
Feb. 8-March 9
“Stephen Sondheim’s Old Friends”
Starring Bernadette Peters and Lea Salonga
Canyon Theatre Guild
24242 Main St., Newhall 91321
Now through Dec. 23
“Christmas Carol: The True Meaning of Christmas.”
Based on Charles Dickens’ timeless story of Ebenezer Scrooge, an elderly miser who is visited by the ghost of his former business partner Jacob Marley and the spirits of Christmas Past, Present and Yet to Come.
FEAT URE
FINDING THE PERFECT ONE
By Michele E. Buttelman Signal Staff Writer
Douglas Fir? Noble Fir? Fraser Fir?
Scotch Pine? What is your perfect Christmas tree? Will only a fresh cut, real tree do? Do you choose a living tree and plant it outside after the holidays? Or do you prefer the artificial, pre-lit tree that offers little muss or fuss?
Christmas tree selection is as individual as the person, or family, making the selection. Many factors go into making a selection of the perfect Christmas tree — price, space, lifestyle and aesthetics.
When my daughter was little, we would visit a cut-your-own tree lot located in the Valencia Industrial Center. It was great fun deciding which tree was the correct size and shape for our Canyon Country living room. We learned, through experience, that size of the tree trunk was important, as was the vertical “straightness” of the tree.
Fresh trees
More than 25 million “real” Christmas trees are sold every year, according to the National Christmas Tree Association.
There are close to 350 million real Christmas trees currently growing in the U.S. In addition, there are more than 4,000 Christmas tree recycling programs in the U.S.
Tips
Measure your space. Trees look smaller when the sky is the ceiling. Make sure to think about width, as well as height.
Think about what type of decorations you will be using. If you have heavy or long ornaments make sure the branches can bear the weight of your ornaments and there is enough spacing between branches so your long, or oversize ornaments can hang freely.
Learn about the different species of trees. There are at least 16 different species of trees commonly sold as Christmas trees. To learn about tree variet-
ies, visit realchristmastrees.org/dnn/Education/ Tree-Varieties.
Ask questions about the trees at the lot. Ask the retailer where the trees were grown, when were they delivered to the lot, what tree does best in the SCV and what trees last the longest.
Do a branch/needle test for freshness. Run a branch through your enclosed hand, the needles should not come off easily. Bend the outer branches, they should be pliable. If they are brittle and snap easily, the tree is too dry.
Where to buy your tree
There are many choices for Santa Clarita Valley families to purchase trees.
The holidays are a busy time for many families. However, the Christmas tree may be your most important holiday purchase. Take time to make Christmas tree selection a family affair. Christmas tree lots open the day after Thanksgiving in the SCV.
Green Thumb Nursery
23734 Newhall Ave., Santa Clarita
Info greenthumb.com
Green Thumb is a family-owned local lot that prides itself on being a “full-service operation.”
The company has been helping Santa Clarita Valley families find a tree for nearly 50 years, and in addition to a wealth of experience, the lot offers Douglas, Noble and Nordman firs, which come fresh from the Pacific Northwest.
Green Thumb will offer help picking the tree, taking it down, “netting” the tree to make it easier to transport and then loading it on top of the family station wagon.
Bennett’s Best Christmas Trees
Info www.bennettsbest.net/
27000 Bouquet Canyon Rd., Saugus 91350
24910 Valencia Blvd., Valencia 91355
Doug Bennett of Bennett’s Best Christmas Trees has been in the business since the age of 15. Fresh-
ness is important to the Bennetts and they do their est to make sure their trees are as fresh as possible. Also available are fresh wreaths and garlands, with wreath sizes ranging from 6 inches to 38 inches.
Frosty’s Forest Christmas Tree Farm Info bit.ly/4g1vsZq
25235 Orchard Village Road, Valencia Info bit.ly/41mtUFa
Frosty’s Forest Christmas Tree Farm is one of the last cut-your-own Christmas tree farms in Southern California. Take your family and roam through a four-acre forest to find and cut your own perfect tree. Frosty’s also sells a variety of containerized living Christmas trees such as Blue Spruce, Monterey Pine, Cedar Deodar and Eldarica Pine. Pre-cut Noble and Nordmann firs are also available. Enjoy Christmas holiday music, free hot chocolate on cold nights, giant inflatables and Christmas decorations throughout the farm, and free candy cane treats.
How to Care for Your Tree
The National Christmas Tree Association offers these tips to keep your tree fresh and green throughout the holiday season.
When a Christmas tree is cut, more than half its weight is water. The most important tip is to make sure you have a stand that contains a good supply of water. Reservoir stands are best.
Once home make a fresh cut to remove about a 1/2-inch thick disk of wood from the base of the trunk and place the tree immediately in water.
Check your tree twice a day to make sure there is enough water in the tree stand. Keep trees away from sources of heat.
Use of lights that produce low heat, such as miniature lights, reduce drying of the tree.
ENTERTAINMENT
Angelina Jolie Does Magnificent Work as Maria Callas
By Richard Roeper
Signal Contributing Writer
‘Maria’
(out of four)
Directed by Pablo Larrain and written by Steven Knight. Rated R (for some language including a sexual reference). In select theaters and on Netflix Dec. 11.
The Chilean filmmaker Pablo Larrain has a kind of strange fixation on telling fictionalized stories of iconic women from the 20th century captured during brief periods in painful moments of isolation, with world-famous actresses portraying the world-famous figures. In the Natalie Portman-starring historical drama “Jackie” (2016), we followed Jacqueline Kennedy in the immediate aftermath of the assassination of President John F. Kennedy, while “Spencer” (2021) had Kristen Stewart portraying Princess Diana during
Sunday-Thursday, December 8-12, 2024
Christmas of 1991, as she was frozen out by the royal family, with her marriage to Charles in tatters.
Now comes “Maria,” with Angelina Jolie doing magnificent work as the legendary American Greek operatic soprano Maria Callas during the final days of Callas’ life, spent largely in her spacious apartment flat in 1977 Paris,
F low B Sun to Tue: 12:45 5:15 7:30; Wed: 12:45 PM; Thu: 12:45 5:15
one FB agent believes that the cr mes were not the work of financ a ly motivated criminals but rather a group of dangerous domest c terrorists
T h e r e T u r N E Sun: 1:10 PM; Mon to Wed: 1:10 7:10; Thu: 1:10 PM
After 20 years away Odysseus washes up on the shores of thaca haggard and unrecogn zable The King has returned from the Trojan War
M a r i a E Sun: 9:50 AM; Mon to Thu: 3:55 PM
Maria reimagines the egendar y soprano in her fina days as the d va reckons with her dentity and ife
M oa N a 2 B Sun: 10:10 1:20 4:25 7:20; Mon to Wed: 1:20 4:25 7:00; Thu: 1:20 4:25 7:30
Moana and Mau reunite three years ater for an expansive new voyage alongs de a crew of unl ke y seafarers
b o N h o e F F e r: Pa S To r. S Py. a S S a S S i N. C Sun: 10:10 AM; Mon to Thu: 4:15 PM
This s the true stor y of D etrich Bonhoeffer a man who preached love while p otting the assassinat on of an ev l tyrant
g l a d i aTo r i i E Sun: 10:00 12:45 4:00 7:10; Mon to Thu: 12:45 4:00 7:10
Lucius must ook to his past to find strength and honor to return the glor y of Rome to ts people
w i c k e d B Sun: 9:50 1:00 3:55 7:00; Mon to Thu: 12:30 3:55 7:20
The untold stor y of the w tches of Oz Elphaba a defiant socia outcast who has yet to discover her true power and G inda a popular young woman
gi ded by privi ege and ambition who has yet to discover her true hear t
h e l lo, lov e, ag a i N 4:05 PM
Determined to reun te Ethan and Joy str ve to mprove their lives
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with only her butler, her housekeeper, her poodles and her memories and hallucinations to keep her company. This is an exquisitely filmed and at times deeply melancholy portrait of an artist who had once made the rafters of great opera houses hum with her bel canto technique and had been mobbed by fans and adored by millions, but spent her last week surrounded by the echoes of sadness.
“Maria” employs the tired framing device of an interview with the title subject, with Kodi Smit-McPhee in a thinly drawn role as a TV documentarian who has an almost obsessive interest in getting the great Maria Callas to tell all about her professional triumphs and personal regrets. The wrinkle here is that the interrogator is a figment of Maria’s imagination. This is hardly a spoiler, given the journalist is called Mandrax, which is also the name of the Quaaludes-type hypnotic sedative Maria has been ingesting, in increasingly large and alarming doses. When Maria is at home, she’s often at odds with her loyal and protective butler, Ferruccio (Pierfrancesco Favino), and her vigilant housekeeper, Bruna (Alba Rohrwacher), whether she’s arguing with them about whether she needs another visit from her doctor (Vincent Maciagne), refusing to eat, or constantly commanding them to move the heavy grand piano from one spot to another.
“Maria” toggles back and forth between that last week in Callas’ life, which includes her attempt to sing once again in a number of rehearsals with a supportive accompanist (Stephen Ashfield), and a number of scenes that play out in Maria’s memory, including triumphant performances at Covent Garden, the Met, et al., and her rocky love affair with the brutish and obscenely wealthy Aristotle Onassis, played by a well-cast Haluk Bilginer. (Thank the heavens, there’s no gimmicky cameo by Portman or any other actress portraying Jacqueline Kennedy-Onassis, who remains an offscreen presence.)
This is a crowded film, with director Lorrain and the esteemed screenwriter Steven Knight also finding room for flashbacks to Maria’s damaging relationship with her quite terrible mother (Lydia Koniordou), not
to mention a splashy fantasy dance number featuring a chorus of tuxedo-clad men performing in front of the Eiffel Tower.
With Larrain and the great cinematographer Edward Lachman (“The Limey,” “Erin Brockovich,” “Far From Heaven”) using vintage lenses and weaving in scenes shot in 35mm, 16mm and Super 8mm, in saturated colors and sometimes black-andwhite, “Maria” is a stunning visual feast. The production designer Guy Hendrix Dyas has created an intricately detailed version of Callas’ apartment, while costume designer Massimo Cantini Parrini drapes Jolie in more than 50 gowns and ensembles. (Even when Maria is dressed in the most casual clothes while at home, she looks ready for a Vogue photo shoot.)
Jolie looks breathtaking and fragile, and projects an air of superiority and defiance while allowing us glimpses of Maria’s vulnerability in her final days. The singing here is a synthesized mix of Jolie’s voice with Callas’ recordings, and it’s done seamlessly; we realize that’s not Angelina soloing, especially in the scenes of Callas in her prime, but it never feels like lip-syncing or glamorized karaoke, either. It’s an integral tool of the performance.
At times “Maria” delves into speechifying, as when Callas says that no man, not even the ferociously intimidating Onassis, could ever control her, or when she has an unpleasant encounter with a worshipful but pesky fan outside a Paris cafe. As was the case with “Jackie” and “Spencer,” this is a film that takes great imaginative leaps of faith yet feels true to the core of what these strong and famous and often misunderstood women endured in their lives. Whether under the glare of the unforgiving spotlight or tucked away in the quiet and the dark, the struggle to be truly seen and heard was a constant.
Classics That Combine Christmases Past and Present
If holiday gatherings have started to feel more over whelming than celebratory, it’s time to go back to the basics with seasonal desserts that are easy yet elegant.
Wow your crowd this year with a mouthwatering Hummingbird Cake that calls to mind holidays past without requiring hours spent in the kitchen. Or for a classic take on an old favorite, these Christmas Cinnamon Cookies can even let the kiddos get involved — just make the dough then have your little helpers use their favorite cookie cutters to make festive shapes before the oven does the rest of the work.
Find these recipes and more from “Cookin’ Savvy” at Culinary.net. (Family Features)
Hummingbird Cake
1 spice cake mix
1 cup sugar
1 cup banana cream Greek yogurt
3 eggs
1 cup crushed pineapple
1 cup crushed pecans
1 cup all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons melted butter
Frosting
1 stick butter, softened
1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese, softened 1/4 cup heavy whipping cream
5 cups powdered sugar
1 package pecans (optional)
Heat oven to 350 F.
In mixing bowl, mix spice mix and sugar. Blend in yogurt, eggs and pineapple. In separate bowl, mix pecans, flour and butter then add to cake mixture.
Grease two 8-inch cake pans with butter. Pour half the mixture into each pan then bake 45 minutes.
Cool on rack before icing.
To make frosting In mixing bowl, mix butter, cream cheese and heavy whipping cream. Slowly blend in powdered sugar.
Ice cake then decorate with pecans, if desired.
Christmas Cinnamon Cookies
1 2/3 cups self-rising flour
2 1/2 teaspoons cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ginger
1/8 teaspoon cloves
1/2 cup sugar
1/2 cup brown sugar
1 egg
2 tablespoons water (optional)
1 cup powered sugar (optional)
In mixing bowl, combine flour, cinnamon, ginger, cloves, sugar, brown sugar and egg to make dough. If dough is too dry to form into ball, add water. Form into log and wrap in parchment paper. Refrigerate 1 hour.
Heat oven to 350 F.
Roll dough out and cut into shapes with cookie cutters. Place on cookie sheet covered in parchment paper and bake 8-10 minutes. Let cool on rack then dust with powdered sugar, if desired.
QWhy is “Wicked” going to be a two-part film? How long was the Broadway musical?
— E.L.
A“Wicked” was originally a novel written by Gregory Maguire before it became a Broadway musical. The stage version is about 150 minutes, plus an intermission. Even if the movie translates the musical verbatim, it would still be a long film, but it might not require a second one. The reason that a second film, which will premiere in theaters in November 2025, is needed might be due to the film version including more elements from the book. (Also, it’s a great way for the studios to make more money.)
I personally believe that pro-shot musicals, which are filmed live musi-
BOOK REVIEW
cals, are the best way to see a Broadway show on your screen. Disney+ did this with “Hamilton,” which allowed millions of people who couldn’t see the original cast on Broadway to experience the show.
QI heard that Claire Danes has a new show coming out. What network will it be on, and when does it start?
— K.S.
A“The Beast in Me” is the title of the upcoming limited series on Netflix — a mystery thriller starring
BookTrib’s Bites
The Time Keepers
By Alyson Richman
An unforgettable novel that captures the power of longing, loss, and love, The Time Keepers transports us from 1979 suburban New York to war-torn Vietnam, revealing that sometimes the most unexpected friendships can save us.
Two women from different worlds, Grace and Anh, are indelibly changed when a runaway boy is found on a street in their small Long Island town. Brought together by the love of this child displaced by war, the women find friendship and healing from their own painful pasts when their lives intersect with a mysterious wounded Vietnam vet. The vet, Jack, works at a watch store that mends timepieces — and might even mend damaged souls.
Richman interweaves the journeys of these diverse characters who will grip, fill, and break your heart—only to bring them together with the care and precision of an expert watchmak-
Claire Danes (“Homeland”) and Matthew Rhys (“The Americans”). Danes plays an author who is grieving the loss of her child, when she gets distracted by a mystery surrounding her new neighbor. This neighbor is a real estate mogul who was once suspected of being involved in his wife’s disappearance.
The show is from the creative minds of Gabe Rotter (“The X-Files”) and Howard Gordon (“Homeland”). It won’t be released until sometime in 2025, but it has an impressive cast. In addition to Emmy award winners Danes and Rhys, the cast includes Jonathan Banks (“Breaking Bad”), Will Brill (“Fellow Travelers”), Kate Burton (“Grey’s Anatomy”), Bill Irwin (“Legion”), and Julie Ann Emery (“Better Call Saul”).
QI haven’t seen one of my favorite dancers, Mark Ballas, on “Dancing with the Stars” for a while. Is he taking a break and coming back in the future?
— D.O.
AMark Ballas actually returned as a guest judge on ABC’s “Danc-
er, one piece at a time. Inspired by a true.
The Coat Check Girl
By Laura Buchwald
For fans of Louise Erdrich’s The Sentence and Ashley Poston’s The Dead Romantics, embark on a touching journey with Josie Gray as she navigates the turbulent waters of loss, love, and the supernatural.
After bidding farewell to her cherished grandmother, Josie Gray finds herself adrift in a sea of grief, compounded by the complexities of an ambiguous romantic entanglement and the return of her unsettling “gift”
ing with the Stars” for season 33. The three-time Mirrorball champion joined the judges’ table alongside former “DWTS” pro Derek Hough, Carrie Ann Inaba, and Bruno Tonioli for just one episode. But he says that he’s open to more in the future.
Ballas announced at the end of a “DWTS” live tour in 2023 that it would be his final dance with a “celebrity partner.” Therefore, it’s doubtful that he’ll return to the ABC show as anything other than a judge.
Ballas is the son of two Latin ballroom professionals and teachers. His father, Corky, was a dance pro on “DWTS” for two seasons, having been paired with TV sitcom icons Cloris Leachman in season 7 and Florence Henderson in season 11. Ballas’ mother, Shirley, is a judge on “Strictly Come Dancing” in the United Kingdom.
Send me your questions at NewCelebrityExtra@gmail.com, or write me at KFWS, 628 Virginia Drive, Orlando, FL 32803.
©2023 King Features Synd., Inc.
looming over them.
Book of the Month
By Jennifer Probst
She’s desperate for another bestseller … and she’ll go to any length to get it. Even if it means sacrificing her pride to chase the hottest bachelor in town and get him to break her heart.
— the ability to communicate with spirits. A presence haunts the restaurant where she works, dredging up long-buried memories from her childhood.
But amidst the shadows, a luminous figure emerges — the restaurant’s new coat check girl. Mia is a beacon of understanding, offering solace in shared experiences and a determination to unravel the mystery shrouding the restless spirit. Mia keeps Josie afloat during one of her most difficult seasons, helping her to embrace her unique talents and confront the ghostly enigma
Once the literary world’s golden girl, Aspen Lourde can’t seem to produce another successful book, and the pressure’s on to prove she’s not just a one-hit-wonder. But there’s a catch: her bestseller was a heartbreak hit, straight from her own love life disaster. Without any fresh romantic turmoil to fuel her pen, Aspen needs inspiration quick enough to create a book her agent can sell to her publisher.
Brick Babel is a romance novelist’s dream: He’s everything Aspen needs for a muse kickstart—gorgeous, moody, and notoriously unattainable. Too bad a good heartbreak is exactly what she needs to meet her deadline. But will Brick play the game?
BookBites is presented by BookTrib.com.
Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande star in the upcoming film “Wicked.” Courtesy of Universal Pictures
The Truth About Women and Heart Disease
Heart disease is the leading cause of death among women in the United States. Although it is largely preventable, each year more than 300,000 women, or one in every 5, die from heart disease, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
About 1 in 16 women ages 20 and older have coronary heart disease, the most common type of heart disease, and 75% of women 20-39 years old have one or more risk factors. These include diabetes, hypertension (also known as high blood pressure), high cholesterol, currently smoking or obesity. For African American and Hispanic/Latina women, the risk of heart disease is even greater.
Among women 20 years and older, more than half of African American women and one-third of Hispanic/Latina women have hypertension, which when left uncontrolled greatly impacts the risk for heart disease or stroke.
In an effort to educate women about heart disease at younger ages, the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute’s (NHLBI) The Heart Truth® program launched an initiative called Yes, YOU!
The initiative is focused on empowering younger women to know the facts about heart disease, understand their personal risk factors and equip
themselves with resources to take action to protect their hearts.
The key takeaway is it’s never too early, or too late, to adopt heart-healthy behaviors. One of the first steps heart health experts recommend is learning more about any family history of heart disease and about risk factors that you can change with healthy lifestyle choices.
“Awareness is the first step toward reducing risk,” said Gina S. Wei, M.D., M.P.H., associate director of NHLBI’s Division of Cardiovascular Sciences and NHLBI’s senior scientific advisor on women’s health. “Women need to be empowered to know the facts so they can take action to protect their hearts.”
Consider these recommended steps from the Yes, YOU! initiative for women looking to improve their heart health:
• Eat a heart-healthy diet rich in vegetables, fruits and whole greens and low in saturated fat, sodium and sugar.
• Increase physical activity by aiming for at least 150 minutes each week
• Maintain a healthy weight
• Control blood pressure, cholesterol and blood sugar
• Get 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night
• Talk to your health care provider about resources to help quit smoking
• Manage stress by practicing self-care and having positive social support
In addition to a public service announcement, the initiative’s webpage features fact sheets in English and Spanish, social media resources to promote heart health and video testimonials from women who share their heart health experiences. For more information about heart disease in women and tools to help create a heart-healthy lifestyle, visit go.nih.gov/YesYOU. (Family Features)
Looking
Whether it’s a corporate event, birthday, or any special occasion, Patron’s has you covered. With spacious accommodations and an event coordinator ready to customize your menu, your event will be nothing short of amazing!
“At Patron’s, we offer a welcoming atmosphere that can be adapted to suit any celebration, making your event truly unforgettable.”
GARDENING
Welcome Your Backyard Birds Back This Winter
Humans aren’t the only ones who look forward to autumn harvest. Fall brings a bounty of natural foods for our feathered friends, too. But while they’re feasting on fall’s cornucopia of delicacies, birds are also planning ahead, taking note of yards with bird feeders that can help them weather winter’s cold.
Many of birds’ favorite foods are actually more abundant in fall. Summer weeds ripen with seeds by October. Many berries only begin to emerge in late summer or early winter, and insects are plentiful. You may think there’s no need to feed birds during the fall, but if you want them to find your home in winter, start feeding in autumn.
The birds who visit feeders in fall are scouting, becoming familiar with feeding stations and making decisions on which backyards they’ll visit this winter. The feed you put out in fall lets birds know they’ll be welcomed and fed in your backyard when seriously cold weather arrives — and they no longer have the luxury of exploring for food.
Winter weather is hard on birds. Their calorie requirements increase, food becomes hard to find, snow covers up seeds and ice storms seal away tree buds and wild fruits. Tiny birds must eat one-third to three-quarters of their weight each day. When temperatures dip below zero, easy meals at a feeder
can mean the difference between life and death.
It’s important to stock your feeders with high-quality foods that provide birds with the most fat, nutrients and energy. Look for a feed like Cole’s that packs nutrition, preserves freshness and gives you the most feed for your dollar. For example, Cole’s Wild Bird Products’ Oil Sunflower is more than 99% pure and cleaned four times to ensure there are more seeds and fewer sticks in each bag. Feed is also nitrogen-purge packaged, just like potato chips, to ensure freshness and insect-free feed. In addition to seed, serve up some suet either in the form of Suet cakes for non-seed eating birds or suet mixed with seed. Consider Cole’s Nutberry Suet, which is a seed blend mix of premium fruits, preferred nuts, nutritious insect suet kibbles and whole-kernel sunflower meats that appeals to fruit and insect-loving songbirds. Or try Suet Kibbles, bursting with berry flavor and loaded with energy for increased stamina. These feed choices provide fat and a high-protein energy source to assist wild birds in weathering winter and may actually boost their chance of survival.
Just as birds need food year-round, they also look for water. This can be tricky in regions where water spends the winter as ice, but bird lovers can still help in a few ways. Experts suggest leaving icicles
on the eaves to provide a regular source of water for birds that drink drops as the icicles melt. Birds are drawn to running water sounds, so spritzers or small fountains are beneficial. In the winter, try using quality bird bath heaters to keep water from freezing, plus they’re more convenient than setting out water every day.
Don’t worry about the birds if you must leave home for a while in winter. Birds are familiar with food sources disappearing. It might take them a while to rediscover your feeders when you return, but they’ll be back, grateful for your assistance.
For more ideas to help birds eat well through winter, and to learn about more feed choices, visit coleswildbird.com. (Family Features)
Gif t GuideHoliday
Keeping Guests Entertained
Gatherings with loved ones are a big part of what makes the holiday season such a special time of year. As families grow and spread out across the map, they may not get too many chances to spend quality time with one another. But the holiday season is a time each year when families make a concerted effort to get together.
As families get together under the same roof during the holiday season, individuals tasked with hosting gatherings tend to have a lot on their plates. Memories tend to be made around the holiday dinner table, but the season also presents ample oppor-
tunities to create nights to remember outside the house as well. Hosts can keep the following ideas in mind as they look for ways to entertain guests this holiday season.
Take a Turn as a Tour Guide
Locals may not make the rounds of nearby tourist destinations too frequently, but the holiday season is a great opportunity for hosts to show guests what makes their towns so unique.
Serve as a tour guide for guests on a sightseeing day with visits to local monuments or museums. Wrap the day up at a holiday bazaar where local small business owners have set up
See ENTERTAIN, page 18
Caroling Cruise Parade Lighʦ
ENTERTAIN
Continued from page 15
shop. This affords guests a chance to tour a new community or a hometown they haven’t visited in awhile, and also makes for a great chance for all to squeeze in a little last-minute holiday shopping.
Plan an Ugly Sweater Bar Crawl
If hosts and their guests are all of age, an ugly sweater bar crawl can make for a fun night out on the town. Encourage guests to wear an ugly holiday sweater and map out a route and schedule of visits to local bars and restaurants. Hosts must prioritize
Visit some of the beautiful lighting displays around Santa Clarita, including Wakefield Winter Wonderland on Wakefield Court in Santa Clarita. PHOTO BY HABEBA MOSTAFA / THE SIGNAL
safety on these types of excursions, so arrange for a bus to take guests from one spot to the next if establishments are far away from one another.
If Main Street has a local bar district, arrange for transportation downtown at the start of the crawl and home when the night ends.
Take In Local Entertainment
Whether it’s a holiday lighting display show or a local theater performance of a classic holiday tale like Charles Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol,” a night of local live entertainment is a great way for hosts and their guests to get out of the house. Hosts can even book a reservation for a pre-show meal at a local restaurant so they can be free of cooking and give guests their undivided attention.
Host a Holiday Movie Night
Weary travelers who want to stay in may appreciate a holiday movie double feature. Hosts can let guests pick a pair of holiday films and then
host a double feature, complete with traditional movie fare like popcorn and candy. Hosts can even offer adult guests a glass of homemade eggnog during the films to up the holiday ante even further.
Holiday hosts can embrace various ways to entertain guests during a time of year when there’s no shortage of fun ways to spend a night. (MC)
HOME
Get Creative With Your Holiday Decor
The end of the year is upon us and that often involves decorating a home in its holiday finest. According to Today’s Homeowner, nearly 70% of Americans plan to display outdoor holiday decorations. Among those choosing to decorate, 34% will do so before Thanksgiving.
Everyone has a different vision of a well-appointed holiday home, but there’s always room to make things more unique and creative. These ideas can add a little extra to holiday displays.
Decorate Other Rooms
Who says holiday decorating is exclusive to living and dining areas? Think about decorating unexpected places, like swapping out everyday towels and shower curtains with something festive. Swags of greenery wrapped in lights can be added to bed frames.
Coordinate the Ornaments
Identify a color theme and then showcase it with ornaments. Think about matching the ornaments to the presents wrapped under the tree as well. Purchase white package paper and color or paint the paper to be the same hues as the ornaments on the tree boughs.
It’s Hip to be Square
While round wreaths are traditional, make your own wreaths in a different geometric shape by using wire or another material as the frame. Square wreaths may be unexpected, and you also can turn the square on its side for a diamond shape.
Add a Spot of Color
Certain holidays are known for their particular color palettes, such as red and green for Christmas. But you also can do something unexpected. Whether using a lighter shade of the same color family or adding an accent color like purple or blue, you can change things up in a creative way.
Make an Unexpected Bouquet
Swap flowers for pine cones, berries and greenery
in unique vessels. For example, arrange your centerpiece in a tall fountain glass or even a cocktail shaker.
Try a Different Accent Tree
Use a styrofoam cone as the base of a tree for a centerpiece or sideboard. Attach poinsettia branches for a vibrant red tree, or stacked lemons or oranges filled with greenery for a fresh-smelling citrus creation.
Suspend Belief
Instead of attaching a tree topper to the tallest bough, hang one from the ceiling just above the tree to add even more whimsy.
Mix and Match
When it comes to a holiday table, mix and match table settings for an eclectic tableau.
Shift Into Neutral
Instead of a large holiday display in familiar colors, rely on neutral, wintry tones that will blend in with the home but add a festive touch. Natural wood, whites and creams, and muted greens can fill spaces.
Unique holiday decorations and schemes can be a great way to add new life to a home this December. (MC)
SENIOR LIVING
What to Know About Estate Planning
Managing and planning one’s estate sounds like a task reserved for the Uber-rich. But that’s a common, and potentially costly, misconception. Indeed, estate planning is a necessary component of long-term financial planning no matter the size of a person’s investment portfolio.
Estate planning is an umbrella term that encompasses anything from asset allocation after death to end-of-life health care decisions to power of attorney should an individual become incapacitated. Key components of an estate plan typically include wills, trusts, power of attorney, and health care directives.
According to a 2021 survey by Caring.com, only 33% of Americans have a will in place, and 60% of respondents in the same survey cited “not having enough assets” as reasons for not creating an estate plan.
The following are some basic steps anyone can take to establish an estate plan.
Create a will A will is a legal document that specifies how your assets will be distributed after your death. Although a will can be set up without an attorney, relying on an attorney to create or update a will can ensure that it is legally sound and reflects your intentions.
In the will you can name an executor who will carry out the plans of the will. Without a will, intestacy laws where you live will dictate the distri-
bution of your assets. Establish trusts Morgan Legal Group says trusts are tools that can protect assets, minimize estate taxes and provide for beneficiaries. Trusts can be revocable or irrevocable. Special needs trusts also can be set up. Trusts can help avoid probate and reduce estate taxes.
The National Bureau of Economic Research indicates trusts can reduce estate taxes by up to 40%. Trusts also can shield some of your assets so they cannot be counted as part of your responsibility for paying for skilled nursing home admittance.
Determine powers of attorney and health care proxies If someone becomes incapacitated, that person will need responsible people who can act on their behalf. A financial or legal power of attorney can help with paying bills, accessing accounts and managing finances and other needs.
A health care proxy can be listed on an advanced health care directive, known as a living will. The proxy will communicate your wishes indicated on the directive and see that your wishes are honored.
Knowing what’s included in an estate plan can ensure that people make informed choices about their assets, beneficiaries and financial futures. It is always best to work with legal, medical and tax professionals when drawing up estate plans to avoid any issues that can arise when matters are not decided ahead of time. (MC)
HolidaySeason...
Shop LOCAL Eat LOCAL Support LOCAL
Five Ways Shopping Local Benefits Our Community
1. Supports Local Businesses
Support the businesses of your friends, family and neighbors by shopping and eating local.
2. Creates Jobs
Thriving local businesses yield more jobs that help strengthen our community.
3. Keeps Our Community Unique
Santa Clarita’s one-of-a-kind businesses are integral to our City’s character and high quality of life. By supporting local businesses, you help cultivate the unique culture of our City.
4. Reduces Environmental Impact
Shopping and dining at local retailers and restaurants requires less travel and reduces your carbon footprint.
5. Invests in Community Programs and Services
When you Shop Local, a portion of every dollar you spend is invested into our parks, roads, Libraries and many other essential community services!
SOLUTIONS
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.
READER LETTERS
Carpetbagger Go Home
Every time I read a letter to the editor by a left-wing diehard, I ask myself, “Do all of these liberals take the same kind of drug that destroys their common sense?”
Lynn Wright says in his Nov. 26 letter, “A Noteworthy Election Defeat,” that George Whitesides’ victory over Mike Garcia was “gratifying” and “especially noteworthy.”
Let me change your adjectives, Mr. Wright, to disgusting and pathetic. Whoever gerrymandered the 27th Congressional District to include the Antelope Valley was out of their ever-loving mind. We have nothing in common with the AV. They have a completely different demographic than the Santa Clarita Valley and it is this demographic that elected George Whitesides, not the voters of the SCV.
You have the nerve to question Mike Garcia’s character. Have you ever met him? He was my student at Arroyo Seco Junior High School. He is the true American success story. He is the best thing to ever happen to the SCV. If you read The Signal at all, you know that he is literally at every noteworthy function in the SCV, in person. He has led the fight to close the Chiquita Canyon Landfill. He is our No. 1 advocate for veterans, being one himself. He has worked diligently across the aisle in Washington to bring millions of dollars into the SCV. He is No. 1 in this year’s Signal Top 51 most influential people in the SCV. George Whitesides was nowhere to be seen. You say, “Every time Garcia ran up against MAGA priorities, he would cave to them.” Do you mean the same priorities that 78 million Americans and 312 electoral votes supported? Mike Garcia is a man of principle, not a self-aggrandizing virtue signaler. I can’t believe you are still beating the dead-horse abortion issue. The Democrats hung their hat on it for Kamala Harris. How did that work out? It is in the hands of the states, where it belongs. If someone wants an abortion in Idaho and can’t get it, never worry. Gavin Newsom will pay for you to come to the sanctuary state and pay for your abortion. You may have to wait for an illegal alien to get his sex change surgery, but not to worry. Gavin, the biggest virtue signaler of them all, will make it happen. Is it any wonder that 90% of the U.S. sees California as a state of permanent insanity? “Come to Texas but leave your politics in California.”
A few words about George Whitesides. While he was working for Virgin Galactic bringing jobs to the AV, Mike Garcia was in a jet over Iraq, risking his life to defend our country. George lives in the AV and that is where his priorities are, not the SCV. George was endorsed by and contributed to Equality California. Some of their stated goals are: 1. Eliminate cash bail 2. Legalize prostitution 3. Shorten probation times for misdemeanors and felonies 4. End qualified immunity for police.
Do those sound like SCV values? George Whitesides is a carpetbagger, which is defined as a political candidate who seeks election in an area where they have no connections. We will have to wait two years before we can send the carpetbagger back to the AV and return Mike Garcia to his rightful position as our congressman. Mark my words, it will happen.
Larry Moore Valencia
Submit a Letter to the Editor Include name, address & phone. E-mail: letters@signalscv.com.
ETHICALLY SPEAKING
Here We Go a-Christmasing!
By David Hegg
So … here we go again! With Thanksgiving and Black Friday behind us, there are no more excuses. The Christmas season is upon us, and we’re already tired! Worse, memories of past seasons have us secretly wishing we’d planned that December trip to Hawaii. But this year can be different if we take the reins and use Christmas rather than, once again, allowing the season to use and abuse us. Here are a few thoughts on making the season work for us.
for the right reasons. Watch a sappy Christmas movie, or host a carol sing in your home. Come on, Scrooge … give up the long face and make Christmas work for you.
1) Prize people over presents. One of the season’s biggest challenges is gift giving, especially if you have many to shop for and do most of the family buying yourself. I can see you already. You’ve made lists for everyone, and lists of lists including stores and sizes. Or maybe you’re way behind in your list-making, and that is just adding more stress.
Here’s the deal: Make this Christmas about the people more than the presents. Reach out and reconnect with some distant friends. A phone conversation may be the best gift they get. Plan family time without media distractions to recover the meaning of conversation, laughter and love.
Most of all, when shopping, think “thoughtful” rather than “expensive.” After all, we already have what we need. We would genuinely enjoy a thoughtful, care-filled gift showing you knew what would speak love to us.
2) Take time to drink. OK, so wow, I have your attention now! Most of you don’t need any more encouragement in that arena. I’m talking about taking time to “drink” in the season’s sights, sounds, and rejuvenating energy. The truth is, we’ve trudged through so many Decembers that familiarity has bred contempt. Fight it off, and you’ll rediscover some genuine joy.
Take the family out for a drive and enjoy some of the brilliantly lit homes in our valley. And if you want the best time, include some young children. Find time to attend a holiday concert at your local church (I know a good one!) or school. I suspect hearing some old carols and new holiday tunes will help refocus your heart and mind on the right things
3) Give some time and money to those in need: Look around, and you’ll see plenty of opportunities to live beyond yourself and help others find joy. Statistically, Los Angeles County leads the nation in people without shelter. Our local shelters – Bridge to Home and Family Promise – can always use extra provisions, money and helpers. Take your kids and serve a meal. You’ll bring smiles to many and a dose of reality to your children.
But it isn’t just the homeless who are hurting. Chances are someone in your world has recently lost their job or been overcome by relational, financial, or medical challenges. Reach out and lend a helping hand, but first, give them some cash to make their life just a bit better. The bottom line is we’re in this together. What ought to separate us from other societies is our love and care for one another. If the freedom we enjoy is to resonate outside our borders, it simply must produce better people inside them. And we’re the people who make the Santa Clarita Valley a great place to live. Let’s do our part to keep it that way. So, fast forward to Dec. 30. How do you want to feel? Tired? Regretful over your Visa bill? Sad because you allowed the season’s hustle to steal away the hoped-for enjoyment? None of us want that.
The problem isn’t that we lack the resources or ability to make Christmas work. The question is whether we have the will to do the right things, in the right way, to achieve the results we’ll smile about when it’s all over. So, let’s start now to make the weeks live up to our cheery greetings. May it be a Merry Christmas and the happiest of holiday seasons!
Local resident David Hegg is senior pastor of Grace Baptist Church. “Ethically Speaking” appears Sundays.
