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Turn a backyard into your own relaxing respite

Metro Backyards have long been places to unwind and enjoy some peace and quiet surrounded by nature. Thanks in part to financial instability brought on by rising inflation and measures to tame it, homeowners may decide to forgo traditional vacations in favor of staying home this season. There’s no better time to invest in a home, particularly outdoor spaces, to make them welcoming respites. The following are some ways to accomplish that goal. Incorporate a water feature The sound of trickling or bubbling water can make surroundings more serene. A low-maintenance water feature ...

Art camp at Lost Creek Mennonite Church provides joy

MIFFLINTOWN — Art camp was held June 19-21 at Lost Creek Mennonite Church in Mifflintown. This was the 11th year for the class. A total of 111 people participated in nine classes that were offered, two for children, seven for teens and adults. Staff included 20 teachers and helpers. The camp concluded with a program, displays and an ice cream social. The camp has grown since its inception in 2013. “Donnie Martin and myself had an idea to offer art classes at our church,” art camp committee organizer Judy Mummau, said. “The idea came after noticing a local church was ...

Summer vegetables, fruits and berries

By Bev Kauffman Happy Summer to you all! Along with the hot temperatures brings fresh vegetables, fruits and berries. I found a lot of goodies at roadside stands this past week. Makes for some delicious summer meals. Grilled cheese sandwiches with slices of tomatoes and fresh basil or pesto. BLTs are another good summer meal idea. Stuffed tomatoes and good old corn on the cob is another good meal. Fresh corn ears remind me of corn day when I was a child. Never seen so much corn in my life like what my family put away for winter. We enjoy putting berries in a bowl with torn up ...

Entertain guests with an al fresco favorite

Family Features If you and your loved ones yearn for new, stimulating experiences to feel connected to the outdoors, look no further than enjoying mealtime al fresco. Inspired by the Mediterranean tradition of “eating in the open air,” al fresco dining offers passionate home cooks a fresh way to enjoy their favorite recipes outside with friends and family. Consider these two tried-and-true al fresco tips from television personality and culinary icon Rachael Ray the next time you enjoy dinner on the deck or lunch on the patio. Gather the right tools: On those buggy days and ...

Five ways to savor fresh-grilled seafood

Family Features Keep the grill cooking all summer long with a family favorite, seafood, and satisfy taste buds with fresh flavors hot off the grates. While some people assume seafood is challenging to cook, it can actually be an easy meal for home chefs of all skill levels. To ensure your cookout is an unrivaled success, start with seafood that brings superior taste to the table. From crustaceans to a wide selection of unique-tasting oysters and sea scallops, mussels and clams, Maine Seafood offers something for all seafood lovers. With a coastline that stretches 3,478 miles along ...

Dial up flavor with summer favorites

Family Features Turn up the heat this summer and spice your way to delicious warm-weather recipes by using subtle ingredients that bring out bold flavors in your favorite foods. Cool off while enjoying mildly spicy dishes. Made with 100% natural chiles, lime juice, sea salt and a hint of apricot, TajÌn Fruity Chamoy Sauce offers a unique sweet-and-spicy flavor without too much heat. Perfect for drizzling over fresh fruits and veggies like mango, pineapple, watermelon and more, it’s also commonly used to bring fruity, subtle spice to a wide variety of recipes including beverages ...