There Is News At Every Corner
CONTRACT BRIDGE
A STITCH IN TIME SAVES NINE
BYLINE: By Steve Becker
Let’s say that you’re declarer in a given hand and that if you adopt a certain line of play, you’ll be a strong favorite to make your contract. And let’s assume that if you adopt a different line of play, you can become an even bigger favorite. Naturally, you’ll be better off in the long run if you choose the line of play that offers the greater chance of success.
That’s pretty much the situation in the accompanying deal after you win West’s heart lead with the jack. It’s tempting to tackle the diamonds at once by playing first the king and then the ace, hoping the opposing diamonds are divided 3-2. But if you did that in the actual case, you’d go down one, assuming best defense.
Now let’s say you’re the type of player who worries from the start that the diamonds might be divided 4-1 instead of 3-2, and that East might have the four diamonds. In that event, you could take steps to try to overcome the imagined 4-1 division. You would do this by leading a low spade to dummy’s king at trick two, followed by a low diamond toward your K-9.
After East plays low, you’d finesse the nine! You wouldn’t expect to win the trick, but you’d nevertheless be confident that nothing could stop you from making at least nine tricks. As it happens, the nine would lose to West’s ten, but regardless of what he did next, you’d be certain to make at least four notrump.
In the actual deal, the safety play in diamonds assures the contract. It might have proven futile (if East had held the J-10-x-x of diamonds and put up the ten on the first lead from dummy), or it might have cost you a trick if the diamonds were divided 3-2, but it is nevertheless the right way to play the hand.
NOW HERE'S A TIP
BYLINE: By JoAnn Derson
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* If you run out of buttermilk, you can use an equal amount of yogurt, preferably nonsweetened, plain, but you can adjust the sugar in a recipe slightly if your yogurt is favorably flavored.
* When entertaining, keep cold drinks in a cooler away from the kitchen. This keeps the floor space free for the cooks.
* Soften brown sugar quickly by grating it on a fine hand grater. If you have a bit more time, add an apple to the container and seal tightly.
* “Day-old bread makes excellent handmade croutons. Slice, spray with cooking spray and season with whatever spices on hand sound good. Toast in a 300 degree oven for 10 minutes or so. They are especially good with soups.” — S.S.D. in Maryland
* Gotta keep those buns warm? Line your crockpot with foil and add the buns. Keep on low or warm, and place on the buffet. Yum.
* “When making platters of fruit that may brown (apples, pears), coat slices with lemon juice. The acid keeps them from browning.” — T.P. in Washington
Send your tips to Now Here’s a Tip, 628 Virginia Drive, Orlando, FL 32803.
THE RICH LOWRY COLUMN
The Editor of the Coop City News disagrees with Rich Lowery views and therefore will not be posting his comment this month.
ARIES (March 21 to April 19) A once-harmonious relationship appears to be hitting some sour notes. Spend some time together to see why things have gone off-key. What you learn might surprise you.
TAURUS (April 20 to May 20) You feel a need to make some changes. Good! You can do it on a small scale (some new clothes, for example) or go big and redecorate your home and/or office.
GEMINI (May 21 to June 20) Control your tendency toward early boredom. A situation in your life might be taking a long time to develop, but patience pays off. Stay with it.
CANCER (June 21 to July 22) You might feel like you’re on an emotional roller coaster this week. Don’t fret; just ride it out and let things settle down. A Pisces shows understanding.
LEO (July 23 to August 22) Do something different for once: Compromise. A stubborn stand on an important issue proves counterproductive. You need to be open to new ideas.
VIRGO (August 23 to September 22) A friend offers advice that you perceive as an act of betrayal. But before you turn against the messenger, pay attention to the message itself.
LIBRA (September 23 to October 22) A year of riding an emotional pogo stick finally settles down. Use this calmer period to restore frayed relationships and pursue new opportunities.
SCORPIO (October 23 to November 21) Your words can sting, so be careful how you respond to a friend’s actions. A calm approach could produce some surprising facts.
SAGITTARIUS (November 22 to December 21) Be careful about whose secrets you’re being asked to keep. They could impose an unfair burden on a straight arrow like yourself.
CAPRICORN (December 22 to January 19) While you prefer taking the tried-and-true course in life, be adventurous this week and accept a challenge that can open up new vistas for you.
AQUARIUS (January 20 to February 18) Your strong sense of justice helps you deal with a job-related situation. Stay with your principles. A Sagittarius emerges as a supporter.
PISCES (February 19 to March 20) You need to build a stronger on-the-job support system to persuade doubting colleagues that your innovative proposals are workable.
BORN THIS WEEK: You might not say much, but you’re capable of extraordinary achievements. You are a loyal friend and a devoted person to your family.
HOLLYWOOD
HOLLYWOOD
BYLINE: By Tony Rizzo
PHOTO CREDIT: Courtesy of Sony Pictures
PHOTO CAPTION: Billy Campbell (“Dynasty”)
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HOLLYWOOD — Billy Campbell was a sensation in “Dynasty” in 1984, playing Steven Carrington’s lover, who was accidentally killed by Blake Carrington (John Forsythe). Campbell later made a comeback in Disney’s futuristic superhero film “The Rocketeer” (1991). At 65, he’ll join Freddie Prinze Jr. and Jennifer Love Hewitt in the “I Know What You Did Last Summer” sequel, titled “I Never Forget What You Did Last Summer.”
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Is Glen Powell the new reboot king? After starring in “Twisters” over the summer with Daisy Edgar-Jones and Anthony Ramos, Powell signed on for a remake of Arnold Schwarzenegger’s 1987 flop “The Running Man,” which only grossed $38.1 million against its $27 million cost.
Another remake in the works from Paramount Pictures is “The Naked Gun,” which stars Liam Neeson in Leslie Nielsen’s original role and “Baywatch” beauty Pamela Anderson in Priscilla Presley’s original role.
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Will Smith moved a step closer into the good graces of fans by giving the prestigious Opening Day oration at the Saudi Film Complex. His recent film “Bad Boys: Ride or Die” became the Saudi Arabia’s top-grossing film of all time. What does that say about their moviegoers?
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The sequel to the film that gave Joaquin Phoenix his Oscar-winning role, “Joker: Folie à Deux,” co-starring Lady Gaga, failed to impress most critics. Only 33% of 291 critic reviews were favorable. Film fans didn’t line up either, judging from the worldwide box-office gross, which was $192 million against its $200 million cost.
Phoenix’s next film is the black comedy western “Eddington,” with Pedro Pascal, Emma Stone, Austin Butler and Luke Grimes. The film wrapped in May.
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Sadly, Francis Ford Coppola (“The Godfather” saga), who pawned his house to produce “Megalopolis,” has only recouped $12.2 million of its $136 million cost. The sci-fi drama is being compared to the disastrous Elizabeth Taylor/Richard Burton epic “Cleopatra” (1963), which nearly sank 20th Century Fox.
Coppola’s clue should have been the lesson that Kevin Costner learned with his “Horizon” saga. If no one will put up money to produce it, don’t sell your house to make it yourself!
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Beware of so-called celebrities on social media sites like Facebook and X. Recently, Sam Elliot popped up on my Facebook chat page. I first met Sam in 1967 when he was in the contract program at 20th Century Fox with Tom Selleck, Ryan O’Neal and James Brolin. In 1976, I shot photos of him for a full back-page ad in Daily Variety for his film “Lifeguard.”
As we corresponded, he revealed that he didn’t remember me or his longtime publicist, Esme Chandlee, which I attributed to him being 80 years old. But when he asked me to sign up for an app called Signal Private Messenger (with in-app purchases), I ended the chat, concluding that it might not be Sam but an online imposter or a scam instead.
Beware who you let into your social media! Was it really Sam or just another scam being born?
(c) 2024 King Features Synd., Inc.
Tuscan Women Cook Celebrates the Holiday Season with a Favorite Tuscan Dessert
Traditionally served for both dessert and breakfast, crostata’s appeal lies in its versatility. The fillings vary with the seasons, from grape jam during the wine harvest to blackberry jam made from wild berries harvested along the roadside. And for the holidays, what could be more fitting than a crostata filled with wild plum jam, evoking the flavors of classic holiday plum tarts enjoyed worldwide?
Guests of Tuscan Women Cook are treated to nonna Donatella’s wild plum crostata at the conclusion of their lunch class at the beloved Ristorante 13 Gobbi. Paired with local delights like limoncello and grappa, this dessert makes a lasting impression.
If you’re dreaming of a holiday season filled with authentic Tuscan flavors, consider incorporating this Wild Plum Tart into your holiday traditions. It’s not just a dessert but a celebration of seasonal bounty and the love of family gatherings.
Happy Holidays from Tuscan Women Cook, where tradition and taste come together!
Recipe and photo may be reprinted with the following credit: Recipe and photo reprinted with permission of Tuscan Women Cook and Ristorante 13 Gobbi
ABOUT TUSCAN WOMEN COOK: Tuscan Women Cook is the unique and popular culinary immersion vacation located in the heart of Tuscany celebrating the food and culture of the Italian region in the charming village of Montefollonico.
Each day of the week-long program, guests learn to cook authentic Italian recipes from some of the best cooks in all of Italy…the local grandmothers, or nonne of Montefollonico. These extraordinary women teach their cooking classes sharing family recipes that have been handed down from generation to generation. Since 2000, Tuscan Women Cook has earned widespread acclaim as the original total immersion culinary experience in Tuscany.
Tuscan Women Cook’s week-long program runs during the months of May, June, September, and October. For more information on Tuscan Women Cook and recipes, visit their website, www.TuscanWomenCook.com.
Healthier You
Wild Plum Crostata Serves 8
In Montefollonico, the nonne like to fill their crostata with wild plum or apricot jam, a local favorite. During the holiday season, it’s common to see families gather around a table adorned with this rustic tart, enjoying the warm and inviting flavors it brings. The dough is a buttery delight, made richer by melted butter and egg yolks, giving the crust its golden hue. Light and crisp, the texture of this crostata crust is often described as a “cookie cloud,” offering a delicate yet satisfying crunch.
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Ingredients
¾ cup granulated sugar
3 egg yolks
1 whole egg
8 ounces butter, melted and cooled
grated zest of orange or lemon
2¾ cups all-purpose flour
2½ tsp baking powder
1-¼ to 1-½ cups wild plum jam or other fruit jam such as apricot or blueberry
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 350˚F. Butter then line a 12-inch round cake pan with parchment paper. Make a parchment paper sling to help remove the crostata from the pan after baking. Cut a strip of parchment paper 2-inches wide and at least 16 inches long. Lay the strip in the pan. Allow the extra paper to hang over the sides of the pan.
Whisk together the sugar, egg yolks and whole egg in a large mixing bowl. Slowly stir in the melted butter. Add the zest, flour and baking powder. Stir until it comes together into a soft dough.
Set aside approximately one cup of the dough. Spoon the remaining thick dough into the prepared pan. Using your fingers, press the dough into an even layer that covers the bottom of the pan and slightly up the sides.
Warm the jam so that it will spread easier. Then, pour the warm jam over the dough in the pan. Use a spatula to spread it out into an even layer.
Place remaining dough on a floured work surface. Knead it then roll it about ¼-inch thick. Cut the dough into thin strips. Position the strips in a lattice pattern on top of the jam.
Bake for approximately 30 minutes until the edges of the crust are golden and the lattice is firm.
Cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. When cool use the parchment paper slip to carefully lift the crostata out of the pan.
Unlock the Power of Apples: A Superfood for Health and Wellness This Fall
As autumn brings an abundance of fresh produce, apples are taking center stage as one of the most versatile and nutritious fruits of the season. Often regarded as a staple in many households, apples are currently experiencing a golden age with a variety of new, delicious options available in markets across the U.S. These fresh American-grown apples—primarily from Washington State, Michigan, New York, and New England—are packed with health-boosting vitamins, antioxidants, and fiber.
Grace O, the visionary founder behind FoodTrients, who champions the idea of food as medicine, says that apples, from classic favorites like Honeycrisp to newer varieties like Envy, Jazz, Ambrosia, and the striking yellow Opal, offer a range of flavors to suit any palate. But beyond taste, she says apples are a true superfood, loaded with health benefits that make them a must-have in any diet.
“Apples are the second most popular fruit in the U.S., and for good reason,” Grace explains. “They are brimming with essential nutrients, including vitamin C, vitamin A, and B-complex vitamins that support metabolism and immune function. Apples are also a rich source of minerals like potassium, iron, copper, and calcium, all of which play a role in maintaining heart health and regulating blood pressure.”
Apples offer a wide range of health benefits, making them a powerful addition to any diet. They help promote whiter, healthier teeth by stimulating saliva production, which reduces bacteria in the mouth and helps prevent tooth decay.
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As a low-calorie, fiber-rich snack, apples can aid in weight loss by satisfying hunger and reducing overall calorie intake. One medium apple contains about 90 calories and 4 grams of fiber, making it a filling, low-calorie snack.
Apples also support heart health by preventing LDL cholesterol oxidation, lowering inflammation, and reducing the risk of heart disease, while their soluble fiber helps lower cholesterol levels.
Additionally, the antioxidants in apples, such as quercetin, have been linked to cancer prevention, particularly prostate and colon cancers, by protecting cells from oxidative stress. Apples are also a good source of boron, which supports bone health and may help prevent osteoporosis and arthritis symptoms.
Consuming apples regularly is linked to a lower risk of type II diabetes. The compounds in apples can help regulate blood sugar levels and reduce glucose absorption.
Grace recommends that for maximum health benefits, it’s important to eat the apple peel, which contains most of the fruit’s disease-fighting compounds. To avoid potential pesticide contamination, opt for organic apples whenever possible.
To read the full article and see more recipes, click here.
Fall is the perfect time to incorporate apples into your diet. Check out the new varieties available at local markets or grocery stores and try this delicious salad recipe featured in Grace’s The Age Beautifully Cookbook.
Apple Barley Salad SERVES 4-6
Barley is a great source of fiber, B vitamins, and selenium. For the corn kernels, I prefer fresh-roasted corn, but you can use thawed frozen corn kernels, too. The apples can be any variety or color that you like, or even a combination. All apples contain quercetin, a compound that helps support the immune system, thereby “keeping the doctor away.” Raisins provide antioxidants and resveratrol, the same compound found in red wine. My Honey-Lime Dressing increases the antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and immunity-boosting components of this recipe.
Ingredients
1 cup cooked barley
½ cup corn kernels
2 2/3 cup chopped apples, peels on
2 Tbs. chopped scallions
½ cup shredded carrot
½ cup raisins
Sea salt and ground pepper to taste
1 recipe Honey-Lime Dressing, garlic omitted
Directions
Rinse the barley in cold water to separate the grains.
In a large bowl, mix together the barley, corn, apples, scallions, carrot, and raisins. Season with salt and pepper.
Toss with garlic-free Honey-Lime Dressing.
Honey-Lime Dressing
YIELDS about 1/4 cup
1 1/2 Tbs. lime juice (about 1 lime)
1 1/2 Tbs. honey
1 Tbs. extra-virgin olive oil
1 minced garlic clove
1/2 tsp. chili powder
Sea salt to taste
Combine all the ingredients in a container with a tight-fitting lid and shake until well blended.
Recipe and photo may be reprinted with the following credit:
Recipe and photo reprinted with permission from The Age Beautifully Cookbook by Grace O/www.FoodTrients.com
Discover the Art of Sober Sipping with "Monday Night Mocktails": 52 Seasonal Non-Alcoholic Recipes to Elevate Your Week
In a world where socializing and relaxation often revolve around alcoholic beverages, Jennifer Newens introduces a refreshing alternative with her new book, Monday Night Mocktails. This vibrant collection features 52 delightful non-alcoholic mocktail recipes, offering a unique drink for every week of the year.
Monday Night Mocktails is more than just a recipe book; it’s an invitation to explore a world of creative, flavorful beverages that rival their alcoholic counterparts in sophistication and taste. Each recipe is thoughtfully crafted using seasonal ingredients and widely available non-alcoholic wines and spirits, ensuring that these drinks are as accessible as they are appealing.
“I consider a mocktail every bit as special as its boozy counterpart, so I borrowed the mixology methods from professional bartenders,” Jennifer says. “For each of these recipes, I suggest a glass type, mixing method, and garnish to make the most of the ingredients and make every drink special—even on a Monday.”
Jennifer breathes new life into classic cocktails with her inventive takes on beloved favorites such as:
Virgin Margarita
Fauxjito
Nearly Negroni
Additionally, she presents non-alcoholic versions of original creations, including:
Turmeric Meyer Lemon Pop
Peach-Rosemary Spritz
Star Anise Mango Mocktail
Whether you’re looking for a refreshing summer cooler or a warming winter delight, Monday Night Mocktails offers a perfect drink for every season.
Say goodbye to mundane Mondays and elevate your evenings with stylish, tasty mocktails that ensure you won’t miss the alcohol. Join Jennifer Newens in welcoming the week with a touch of elegance and a splash of creativity.
Jennifer Newens is a cookbook editor, cooking teacher, and literary agent from Oakland, California. She received her culinary training from the prestigious Culinary Institute of America in Hyde Park, New York. She believes that everyone deserves to have a special drink in a fancy glass with a pretty garnish at the end of a long day – whether or not they choose to put booze in it!
Start your work week with this easy and delicious fall mocktail recipe.
Recipe and photo may be reprinted with the following credit:
Recipe and photo reprinted with permission from Monday Night Mocktails by Jennifer Newens/Collective Book Studio/October 2024
SPICY CRANRITA Makes 1 mocktail
Here is a bright, spicy update on a classic margarita featuring cranberry juice and fresh jalapeños. To tame
the spiciness, remove the seeds from the jalapeño.
GLASS: Lowball GARNISH: Sliced jalapeños
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2 tsp salt, for the rim
1 tsp sugar, for the rim
Lime wedge, for the rim
1 ½ oz/45 ml unsweetened cranberry juice
1 ½ oz/45 ml high-quality zero-proof tequila
½ small jalapeño chile, thinly sliced, plus more for garnish
1 oz/30 ml fresh lime juice
¾ -1 oz/22–30 ml pure maple syrup
To prepare the glass, sprinkle the salt and sugar onto a small
plate. Wipe the lime wedge around the rim of the cocktail
glass, then dip the rim into the salt and sugar mixture. Fill
the glass with ice.
In a cocktail shaker, add the cranberry juice, tequila, jalapeño
slices, lime juice, and maple syrup. Add ice and shake until
chilled. Strain into the prepared cocktail glass and garnish
with more jalapeño slices.
About FoodTrients
About FoodTrients
FoodTrients® is a philosophy and a resource dedicated to the foods and rejuvenating nutrients that help us fight the diseases of aging and promote longevity. All of the recipes combine modern scientific research and medicinal herbs and ingredients from cultures around the world. They’re loaded with flavor and superfoods, which promote wellness, increase energy and vitality, improve skin, and help people look and feel younger.
About Grace O
Over a span of 30 years, Grace O has built an impressive record of business achievement, community building, philanthropy, and community service in California. Guided by her spirit of entrepreneurship and building on a model of generosity learned from her family, Grace has spent a lifetime helping people heal through food and medicine. Grace launched FoodTrients.com in 2010 where she shares age-defying superfoods from around the world and creates delicious recipes with them. Grace is the author of three award-winning cookbooks—The Age GRACEfully Cookbook: The Power of FOODTRIENTS to Promote Health and Well-being for a Joyful and Sustainable Life; The Age Beautifully Cookbook: Easy and Exotic Longevity Secrets from Around the World, and the multi-award-winning Anti-Aging Dishes from Around the World.
For more information and recipes visit www.FoodTrients.com.