Recipe | Flavor-rich fresh homemade peach pie

Photo provided

StatePoint Media - From the hearty and warm flavors of winter to the bold, rich and bright flavors of summer, herbs and spices are not only a delicious and better-for-you addition to any dish, they can transform it into unforgettable memories.

Summer is the perfect time of year to celebrate food, flavor and time with family or friends. As you prepare for all this season’s gatherings, remember to shop carefully, as freshness is essential when it comes to herbs and spices.

"Fresh flavors and aromas are strong triggers that ensure that experiences today are remembered tomorrow," says Giovanna DiLegge, vice president marketing, North America Consumer at McCormick, a global leader in flavor.

That’s why for the first time in nearly 40 years, McCormick is debuting a brand new design for its red cap branded products that audibly seals in aromas and flavors, for long-lasting freshness of herbs and spices. And to help you make the most of summer, McCormick is sharing this recipe for Fresh Peach Pie, which incorporates rich and bright summer fruits, and a sweet note of cinnamon spice:

Ingredients:
• 3 pounds fresh peaches, peeled, pitted and sliced (about 7 cups)
• 1/2 cup plus 3 tablespoons sugar, divided
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 1/4 teaspoon plus 1/8 teaspoon salt, divided
• 1 1/2 teaspoons McCormick Ground Cinnamon, divided
• 1 package (14.1 ounces) refrigerated pie crusts, (2 crusts)
• 3 tablespoons corn starch
• 1 tablespoon McCormick All Natural Pure Vanilla Extract
• 1 tablespoon water

Instructions:
1. Mix peaches, 1/2 cup of sugar, lemon zest and juice, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt in large heat-safe bowl until well blended. Let stand 30 minutes. Drain peaches, reserving 8 tablespoons of juice. Return peaches to bowl; sprinkle with 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon. Set aside.

2. Meanwhile, prepare pie crust as directed on package. Roll each crust into 12-inch circles on lightly floured surface. Press 1 crust into bottom of 9-inch pie plate. Cut remaining crust into 10 strips, about 1-inch wide. Refrigerate pie plate with bottom crust and prepared strips until ready to assemble pie.

3. Preheat oven to 425 degrees F. Mix 2 tablespoons of remaining sugar, remaining 1/8 teaspoon salt, remaining 1 teaspoon cinnamon and corn starch in small bowl. Add 2 tablespoons of reserved peach juice to cornstarch mixture, whisking to mix well; set aside.

4. Place remaining 6 tablespoons peach juice in small saucepan. Bring to simmer on medium-low heat. Stir in vanilla. Whisk cornstarch slurry into saucepan. Cook and stir just until thickened and smooth, about 30 seconds. Remove from heat. Pour syrup mixture over peaches; toss to coat. Allow to cool slightly.

5. Spoon peach mixture into chilled pastry-lined pie plate. Arrange pie dough strips over top to create a lattice (see below for instructions). Trim dough strips about 1/2-inch longer than bottom pie crust. Fold strips underneath crust and pinch to adhere. Crimp or flute crust edges, as desired. Brush lattice with water and sprinkle evenly with remaining 1 tablespoon sugar. Place pie plate on large shallow baking pan.

6. Bake 25 minutes or until crust is lightly browned. Reduce heat to 375 degrees F. Rotate pan. Bake 30 to 35 minutes longer, until crust is golden brown and filling is bubbly. Cool on wire rack. Serve with vanilla ice cream, if desired.

How to weave a lattice top crust: Using longer strips for the center of pie and shorter strips for edges, arrange 5 pie dough strips vertically over top of filling, leaving about 1 inch of space between each strip. Fold back every other strip (2 and 4) to just above midline of pie. Place one of the longer strips across pie horizontally, just below the fold. Fold vertical strips back down over top of the horizontal strip. Fold back the opposite vertical strips (1, 3 and 5) and place another strip below the first horizontal strip, again leaving about 1 inch of space between them. Fold vertical strips back down over top. Repeat this process with one more strip below, and then 2 strips above first crosswise strip. Work quickly, as the warm filling may make the dough difficult to work with.

After 15 to 20 minutes of baking, cover edge of crust with foil strips to prevent excessive browning.

Guest Commentary | A person of many companions may soon come to ruin

by Glenn Mollette, Guest Commentator

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You may have heard this before. I went out to find a friend a none were to be found. I went out to be a friend and found them all around.

Where do you find friends?

Your best friends may be your family. You may be close to siblings, cousins, and others related to you. Growing up, I was blessed to be around a lot of aunts, uncles, cousins, grandparents, siblings, and parents. I didn’t have to think much about searching for friends because so many relatives were always around. This is not always the case. Many people have small families or maybe even no family. Some families go in different directions, live in different places, or move on with different interests and lives.

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The Internet and social media have become the world’s biggest connection place.

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We often find friends in school. Some of the people we shared elementary and high school with become lifelong connections. Even if we don’t see each other much, we still have those great past times that help us reconnect quickly.

We connect with people at our places of employment. Some of the people you spend hours with every day become lifelong friends.

Houses of faith are often good places to make new friends. People get to know each other in Bible study classes and other small group religious settings. The people you share your faith with will often become like brothers and sisters.

The local gym is often a place where people socialize. If you become a routine attender of an exercise class you will eventually develop some friends.

The Internet and social media have become the world’s biggest connection place. To many people this is their only connection. All their “friends” are on Facebook or Instagram. Many people have thousands of social media friends. Too often the loneliest people on the planet are those who are only connected by a keypad.

There are many more places where you can connect. Many communities have baking, quilting, hunting, sports clubs, and more. Civic groups from Kiwanis, Rotary, and Ruritan groups will often meet weekly and do community projects.

You might make some friends volunteering at the hospital or nursing home. There will be people in most of these places who will be glad to make a new friend. Talk to your local nursing home about your interest and you may be surprised how quickly your talents are utilized. You will also find some people who will be glad to make a new friend. Keep in mind this is not always easy as you will be trying to make friends with many who feel alone and forgotten.

You can always become active in the local political circles. This all depends on your level of desperation and if you don’t mind being shunned by whichever party you don’t declare affiliation.

Don’t try to have too many friends. The Bible says a person of many companions may soon come to ruin. However, you need a few friends and hopefully you will have some good ones.

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He is the author of 13 books including Uncommom Sense, the Spiritual Chocolate series, Grandpa's Store, Minister's Guidebook insights from a fellow minister. His column is published weekly in over 600 publications in all 50 states. The views expressed are those of the author and are not necessarily representative of any other group or organization. We welcome comments and views from our readers. Submit your letters to the editor or commentary on a current event 24/7 to editor@oursentinel.com.

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Declutter, Discover, Delight: Hosting a stellar yard sale this fall

Photo: Duskfall Crew/Unsplash

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Sentinel News Service - In a world where material possessions seem to accumulate faster than we can keep up, the idea of decluttering has become more appealing than ever. But what if there was a way to not only declutter your living space but also discover hidden treasures and delight in the process? Enter the backyard yard sale – a fantastic opportunity to turn your excess belongings into cash while creating a sense of community in your own neighborhood. This guide will walk you through the steps of hosting a stellar yard sale in your backyard, from planning and organizing to maximizing your profits and enjoying the experience.

The Power of Decluttering
Before you can embark on the journey of hosting a successful yard sale, it's important to recognize the transformative power of decluttering. Clutter not only occupies physical space but can also weigh down your mind. By letting go of items you no longer need or use, you're not just clearing your environment but making space for positive energy and new beginnings. Embracing the process of decluttering can lead to a sense of liberation, allowing you to focus on what truly matters and inviting a renewed sense of creativity into your life.

Unearthing Hidden Treasures
One person's trash is another person's treasure, and hosting a yard sale is the perfect opportunity to unearth hidden gems. As you go through your belongings, you might come across items you had forgotten about or that hold sentimental value. This discovery process adds an element of excitement to the yard sale experience, both for you as you reminisce about the stories behind the items and for your potential buyers who might stumble upon unique pieces that spark their sense of nostalgia and fascination.

Planning Your Stellar Yard Sale
A successful yard sale requires careful planning and organization. Start by setting a date and time for your event, considering factors like weather and local community events to ensure maximum foot traffic. Weekends are often ideal, as more people are likely to be available to attend. Check local regulations and obtain any necessary permits to avoid any last-minute hassles. Create a thoughtfully organized layout for your yard, designating clear areas for different categories of items to create an effortless browsing experience for your shoppers. Remember, pricing is key – be realistic and open to negotiation, striking a balance between attracting buyers and ensuring a fair return for your belongings. Keep in mind that the ultimate goal is not only to declutter your space but also to find new loving homes for your items while also making a satisfying profit.

Organizing for Success
As the date of the yard sale in your backyard approaches, it's time to get organized. Gather tables, racks, and other display items to showcase your items attractively. Create inviting arrangements that draw shoppers in and encourage them to explore. Group similar items together – clothing, electronics, kitchenware, etc., allowing visitors to browse through categories of interest effortlessly. Consider using signs or labels for the organization and adding a charming touch to your setup, guiding buyers on their treasure hunt. Ensure that your yard is clean and presentable, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere that entices visitors to linger and discover hidden gems.

Marketing Matters
You'll need to spread the word about your yard sale to attract a steady stream of enthusiastic buyers eager to uncover treasures. Leverage the power of social media by creating engaging posts and events on popular platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. Showcase high-quality photos of select items you'll be offering to pique curiosity and anticipation. In addition to digital strategies, don't underestimate the charm of traditional methods – hang eye-catching flyers around your neighborhood and personally share the event details with your circle of friends and family. This dynamic approach ensures that your yard sale becomes the talk of the town, drawing in a diverse crowd of bargain hunters and curious shoppers.

The Art of Negotiation
Yard sales are known for their bargain-hunting atmosphere, and the art of negotiation plays a significant role. Be prepared for haggling and consider setting slightly higher prices than you're willing to accept. This strategic pricing approach not only provides flexibility for bargaining but also allows you to meet your buyers halfway, ensuring both parties walk away feeling satisfied. Keep a friendly and open attitude throughout these interactions, making the shopping experience transactional and a pleasant and memorable exchange for your visitors.

Embracing the Delight
As shoppers explore your yard sale and make purchases, take a moment to embrace the delight of the experience. Engage with your visitors, share stories about the items you're selling if applicable, and enjoy the sense of community that such an event can bring. Seeing your items find new homes and knowing that you're contributing to sustainable shopping practices can be truly fulfilling.

Giving Back and Clearing Out
At the end of your yard sale, you might find that you have some items left. Consider donating them to local charities or shelters, ensuring that they find meaningful homes. This final step in the process can bring a sense of closure and fulfillment, knowing that your belongings are making a positive impact.

Counting Your Delights – Maximizing Profits
After the sale concludes, take some time to tally up your earnings. Reflect on what went well and what you could improve for next time. Hosting a yard sale in your backyard isn't just about decluttering; it's also an opportunity to earn extra cash and learn valuable lessons about organizing, marketing, and connecting with others. It is also one of the really good money saving moving tips—organizing a yard sale in order to declutter before a relocation. This will help you reduce the number of things you will need to haul with you and also ensure you don't go over your budget, as you will also make some extra moving cash. Therefore, it is an overall win-win situation, no matter the goal.

A Journey of Decluttering, Discovery, and Delight with a Yard Sale in Your Backyard
Hosting a yard sale in your backyard is a multifaceted journey that goes beyond the simple act of selling items. It's about decluttering your space, discovering hidden treasures, and delighting in the process. From the initial planning stages to the final moments of the sale, every step offers a chance to connect with your community, embrace the art of negotiation, and experience the joy of giving your belongings a new lease on life. So, roll up your sleeves, get ready to declutter, and embark on a delightful adventure right in your own backyard.

Back-to-School: Safety tips for students riding the bus to school

Photo: Jean Woloszczyk/Unsplash

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Family Features - Another school year means millions of children across the United States will begin and end each day with a bus ride. The way many kids ride to school today, however, is the same as it was 25 years ago - in diesel school buses, which have been shown to be harmful to children's health, the community and the climate.

Investments are being made to clean up the nation's school bus fleet, like the Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) Clean School Bus Program, which will provide $5 billion over five years to help replace existing buses with low- and zero-emission models. One alternative energy source, propane, is an environmentally friendly and affordable option that can be implemented today to provide a better tomorrow for more students. The low-carbon emissions energy source is abundantly available and can work in tandem with other energy sources, including electric, to move the nation's school bus fleet further down the path to zero emissions and ensure every child has a safe, clean, healthy ride to school.

In addition to speaking to your children's school district officials about alternative school bus solutions, there are lessons parents can teach their children about how to remain safe before, during and after their daily trips on school buses. Consider these tips from the experts at the National Association of Pupil Transportation.

Before the Bus Arrives

Ensure backpacks are packed securely so papers and other items don't scatter as the bus approaches.

Create a morning routine that puts kids at the bus stop five minutes before the scheduled pickup time. This helps avoid a last-minute rush, when safety lessons are easily forgotten, and ensures kids are safely in place for boarding.

Encourage children to wear bright, contrasting colors so they can be seen easier by drivers.

Instruct children to walk on the sidewalk. If there is no sidewalk, advise them to stay out of the street, walk single-file, face traffic and stay as close to the edge of the road as possible.

Walk young children to the bus stop or encourage kids to walk in groups. There is safety in numbers; groups are easier for drivers to see.

If kids must cross a street, driveway or alley, remind them to stop and look both ways before crossing.

Verify the bus stop location offers good visibility for the bus driver; if changes are needed, talk with nearby homeowners or school district officials to implement changes. Never let kids wait in a house or car, where the driver may miss seeing them approach the bus.

Remind children the bus stop is not a playground. Balls or other toys can roll into the street and horseplay could result in someone falling into the path of oncoming traffic.

Instruct children to stay at least three steps away from the road and allow the bus to come to a complete stop before approaching it.

On the Bus Ride

When boarding the bus, items can get bumped and dropped. Caution children that before picking anything up, they should talk to the driver and follow instructions to safely retrieve their possessions.

Teach safe riding habits: Stay seated with head, hands and feet inside at all times; keep bags and books out of the aisle and remain seated until the bus stops moving.

Instruct children to never throw things on the bus or out the windows and to never play with or block emergency exits.

Remind kids that loud noises are off limits so they don't distract the driver. That includes cellphones and other electronic devices; instruct children to put them on mute or use headphones.

Leaving the Bus

Remind children to look before stepping off the bus. If they must cross the street, teach them to do so in front of the bus by taking five big steps (approximately 10 feet) away from the front of the bus, looking up and waiting for the driver to signal it's safe.

For parents who meet their kids at the bus, eliminate the risk of your children darting across the street by waiting on the side of the street where they exit the bus.

Make the bus ride part of your daily "how was school?" discussion. Encourage kids to talk about the things they see and hear on the bus so you can discuss appropriate behaviors and, if necessary, report any concerns to school administrators.

Benefits of Propane Buses
Every day, 1.3 million children in the United States ride to school in 22,000 propane-powered school buses, which are currently in use by more than 1,000 school districts across 48 states. Alternative fuels, such as propane, offer multiple benefits for school districts and students alike because propane buses reduce harmful emissions, save money and provide a safer ride for students.

Student Health
Propane reduces harmful nitrogen oxide emissions by up to 94% compared to diesel and emits near-zero particulate matter emissions. Both emissions, which can be found in the cloud of smoke emitted from the tailpipes of diesel buses, are known triggers for asthma, bronchitis and other respiratory problems, according to the EPA.

Reliability
Propane has a range of 400 miles and the performance needed to drive long distances without stopping to recharge or refuel.

Cost Savings
While propane and electric are both options for clean student transportation that also reduce the harm to air quality, the cost is not equal. On average, an electric school bus costs $375,000, meaning districts can purchase three propane-powered buses (which are only $6,000 more expensive than diesel buses) for the price of one electric bus. In fact, a study from the World LP Gas Association found the cost savings of getting rid of all diesel buses and replacing them with propane would save enough money to hire 23,000 teachers due to lower long-term fuel and maintenance costs.

Find more information and learn how to talk to school district officials about adopting clean school buses at BetterOurBuses.com.

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Tips for parents for kids with Autism heading back to school this month

by Terri Dee
Illinois News Connection

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It's also important to pay attention to the physical needs of an autistic child to avoid overwhelming them.

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CHICAGO - For a child on the autism spectrum, returning to school after the summer break may be viewed with anxiety and hesitancy. However, parents can pave the way for a better experience.

A child may feel uncomfortable with the unfamiliar faces of a new teacher and classmates. According to the Illinois Department of Public Health, about one in 50 children in Illinois is diagnosed with autism.

Erin Skaggs, marketing director for Easterseals DuPage & Fox Valley, said she believes some action in advance of the first day of school can make a difference.

"I always recommend to start with your school - contact the counselor or social worker about setting up a one-on-one school tour," she said. "It really can help alleviate some of those questions kids have, and parents, about where their child will be going on that first day. And then certainly, of course, going to any other 'welcome' events the school may have."

Skaggs suggested that the child also have a one-on-one meeting with the teacher - and with parents present - before the school year starts, to address any necessary accommodations. She added that letting children choose their own school supplies and clothing gives them a sense of control and can have a positive impact.

In DuPage County, the ratio of children with autism is one in 65. In Lake and McHenry counties, it is one in 70, according to state data.

It's also important to pay attention to the physical needs of an autistic child to avoid overwhelming them. Skaggs said a backpack to be carried to and from school should be the correct size for the child. It should have adjustable straps and be no wider or longer than the child's torso for equal weight distribution.

"Always make sure if you're loading items into your child's backpack to place heavier items closest to the back of the backpack, closest to the body," she said.

The Illinois Center for Autism's Special Day School Program offers year-round educational programming to students from ages 3 to 21 who've been diagnosed with autism, cognitive or emotional disabilities or developmental delays. The ICA program is approved by the Illinois State Board of Education.

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