How to Sear Like a Pro:

1. Heat the Pan:
   Use a heavy-bottomed skillet or pan, such as cast iron or stainless steel. Heat it over medium-high to high heat until it’s very hot. This ensures that the food sears quickly, creating a golden crust.
2. Prepare the Food:
   Pat the food dry with paper towels before searing to remove excess moisture, which can prevent a proper sear. Season with salt, pepper, and any other spices you prefer.
3. Add Oil or Fat:
   Add a small amount of high-smoke point oil (like vegetable, canola, or clarified butter) to the hot pan. Allow the oil to shimmer but not smoke.
4. Sear the Food:
   Place the food in the pan without overcrowding. Sear the surface of the food for 2-5 minutes on each side, depending on the thickness, until it forms a crispy, golden-brown crust.
5. Finish Cooking:
   After searing, you can finish cooking the food by transferring it to the oven or using another method such as braising, simmering, or roasting.

Why Searing Works in Winter:

• Flavor Development: The high heat of searing creates the Maillard reaction, which enhances the food’s natural flavors and gives it a rich, savory crust. This makes the technique perfect for hearty winter dishes like stews, pot roasts, and braises.
• Seals in Juices: Searing locks in the juices of meats, ensuring a moist and tender interior while maintaining a flavorful exterior.
• Versatility: Searing works beautifully with winter ingredients like beef, pork, lamb, and root vegetables, adding depth and complexity to dishes.

Searing is a powerful technique that can be used in a variety of winter recipes, allowing you to create rich, satisfying meals full of complex flavors. Whether you’re preparing a cozy stew, a roast, or a stir-fry, the art of searing enhances your dishes, making them the perfect comfort food for cold weather.

The post The Art of Searing: Enhancing Flavor Even in Winter first appeared on The Bedford Tribune.

The post The Art of Searing: Enhancing Flavor Even in Winter appeared first on The Bedford Tribune.

Unique sweaters have become a festive staple for parties, family gatherings, and even casual Fridays at work. If you don’t already have one tucked away in your closet, there’s no need to worry—Bedford offers plenty of options to help you stand out. Local thrift shops and craft stores are great places to find vintage gems or plain sweaters to transform into your own masterpiece. Add some pom-poms, garland, or even miniature stockings to create a look that’s uniquely you.

For those looking to show off their quirky fashion, consider hosting or attending an Ugly Sweater Contest. Bedford’s community centers and churches often hold fun, festive events where you can showcase your holiday flair. If you’re feeling extra spirited, why not organize a sweater walk in your neighborhood? Strolling in style is a surefire way to spread smiles and warm hearts.

So grab your glue gun, dig into your craft bin, and let your imagination shine brighter than Rudolph’s nose. Whether you’re decking yourself out or cheering for someone else’s sweater ingenuity, let’s make Bedford a little brighter this Christmas—one quirky sweater at a time!

The post Spreading Holiday Cheer with Quirky Christmas Sweaters first appeared on The Bedford Tribune.

The post Spreading Holiday Cheer with Quirky Christmas Sweaters appeared first on The Bedford Tribune.

1. Inspect and Clean the Chimney: If you use your fireplace during the winter, make sure to schedule a chimney cleaning and inspection. This ensures that it’s free from dangerous creosote buildup and allows for proper ventilation.
2. Check Your Heating System: With the cold settling in, it’s critical to ensure your heating system is working efficiently. Change air filters, clean vents, and schedule a professional inspection if needed to avoid breakdowns.
3. Seal Gaps and Cracks: Inspect your home’s windows, doors, and foundation for any drafts or cracks. Use weatherstripping or caulk to seal any gaps and keep warm air inside, reducing heating costs.
4. Prepare for Snow and Ice: Ensure that your snow removal equipment is in working order. Check your snow blower or get your shovel ready, and stock up on ice melt for walkways and driveways.
5. Test Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors: As heating systems are running more, it’s important to check that smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are functioning correctly. Replace the batteries and test the alarms to ensure safety.
6. Inspect and Clean Gutters: Clear gutters and downspouts of debris to prevent ice dams and water damage that can occur from freezing rain or heavy snow.

By addressing these home maintenance tasks in December, Bedford residents can enjoy a safe, warm, and comfortable winter season in their homes.

The post December Home Maintenance Tips for Bedford: Ready Your Home for Winter’s Chill first appeared on The Bedford Tribune.

The post December Home Maintenance Tips for Bedford: Ready Your Home for Winter’s Chill appeared first on The Bedford Tribune.

Aries (March 21 – April 19): Mars in Sagittarius propels you towards bold actions. Venture out, but stay mindful of your limits.

Taurus (April 20 – May 20): Venus in Capricorn steadies your desires. Build lasting connections, but keep flexibility in your expectations.

Gemini (May 21 – June 20): Mercury in Sagittarius encourages broad thinking. Explore new ideas, but ground them in practicality.

Cancer (June 21 – July 22): The Sun in Sagittarius lights up your quest for adventure. Expand your horizons, but cherish home comforts.

Leo (July 23 – August 22): Venus in Capricorn brings focus to your career aspirations. Aim high, but balance ambition with personal life.

Virgo (August 23 – September 22): Mercury in Sagittarius enhances your communicative prowess. Engage in lively debates, but listen carefully.

Libra (September 23 – October 22): The Sun in Sagittarius invites exploration in partnerships. Seek harmony, but assert your needs.

Scorpio (October 23 – November 21): Mars in Sagittarius fuels your drive for transformation. Embrace change, but proceed with caution.

Sagittarius (November 22 – December 21): Jupiter in Leo magnifies your natural charisma. Captivate audiences, but maintain humility.

Capricorn (December 22 – January 19): Venus in your sign enhances both personal allure and professional tact. Shine subtly, but stand firm in your values.

Aquarius (January 20 – February 18): Uranus in Taurus may disrupt to bring innovation. Adapt swiftly, but secure your base.

Pisces (February 19 – March 20): Neptune in your sign blurs the lines between reality and fantasy. Dream vividly, but anchor your fantasies with actionable steps.

The post Horoscope for the Week of December 15, 2024 – December 21, 2024 first appeared on The Bedford Tribune.

The post Horoscope for the Week of December 15, 2024 – December 21, 2024 appeared first on The Bedford Tribune.

• 1 cup Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
• 2 large carrots, peeled and cut into sticks or rounds
• 1 small sweet potato, peeled and cut into cubes
• 1 cup cauliflower florets
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme or rosemary (optional)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Vegetables:
   Wash and prep all the vegetables. Ensure they are cut into uniform sizes for even cooking. Set aside.
2. Set Up Your Steamer:
   Fill a large pot with a couple of inches of water and bring it to a simmer. If using a steamer basket or colander, place it over the pot, ensuring it doesn’t touch the water.
3. Steam the Vegetables:
   Add the Brussels sprouts, carrots, sweet potato, and cauliflower to the steamer basket. Cover the pot and steam the vegetables for about 10-15 minutes, or until they are fork-tender. Be sure to check them midway to ensure they’re not overcooked.
4. Season:
   Once the vegetables are done, remove them from the steamer and place them in a large bowl. Drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt, pepper, and thyme or rosemary. Toss gently to coat the vegetables.
5. Serve:
   Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve hot as a nutritious side dish for any winter meal.

This Winter Steamed Vegetable Medley is a simple, healthy dish that allows the vegetables’ natural flavors to shine. The steaming technique helps to preserve nutrients, while the olive oil and seasonings add just the right amount of flavor for a satisfying winter meal. Enjoy!

The post Winter Steamed Vegetable Medley first appeared on The Bedford Tribune.

The post Winter Steamed Vegetable Medley appeared first on The Bedford Tribune.

1. Grandparent Scams: Scammers may call or message pretending to be a grandchild in urgent need of money. They may claim to be in trouble, like being in an accident or needing money to return home. Always verify their identity by contacting family members directly before sending any money.
2. Fake Charity Solicitations: Scammers often create fake charities during the holiday season to exploit your generosity. Be cautious when receiving unsolicited donation requests. Research the charity online and ensure it’s legitimate before making any contributions.
3. Phishing Emails with Holiday Deals: During the holidays, scammers send out phishing emails disguised as great shopping deals or festive discounts. These emails may include links to fraudulent websites designed to steal personal information. Always double-check the sender’s email address and avoid clicking on suspicious links.
4. Online Shopping Scams: Scammers use fake websites or deals that seem too good to be true to steal your credit card information. Before purchasing from an unfamiliar site, look for secure payment methods, check reviews, and ensure the website has “https” in the URL.
5. Tech Support Scams: Scammers may call or email claiming your computer has issues and offering to fix it for a fee. They may ask for remote access to your device or personal details. Remember, legitimate tech companies won’t reach out to you unsolicited.
6. Romance Scams: Loneliness during the holidays makes some individuals vulnerable to online romance scams. Scammers create fake profiles on dating websites or social media platforms, pretending to form a romantic connection, only to later ask for money. Always be cautious when sharing personal information with someone you’ve just met online.

By staying informed and cautious, you can protect yourself from these scams. Trust your instincts—if something feels off, take time to verify the information before acting. Enjoy the holiday season safely by keeping your personal information and finances secure.

The post Online Scam Detection Tips for Bedford Residents During the Christmas Season first appeared on The Bedford Tribune.

The post Online Scam Detection Tips for Bedford Residents During the Christmas Season appeared first on The Bedford Tribune.

What You’ll Need

Here’s a list of items you can use to make your ornaments:

• Corks
• Pinecones
• Seashells
• Old buttons
• Scraps of ribbon or twine
• Acrylic paint
• Hot glue gun or craft glue
• Small beads, glitter, or stickers for decoration
• Hooks or loops for hanging

You don’t have to use all of these things—just gather whatever you have on hand. Now, let’s get started!

Ornament Idea #1: Cork Snowmen

Transform leftover corks from wine bottles into cute little snowmen! Start by painting the cork white and letting it dry. Then, use black paint or a marker to add dots for the eyes, mouth, and buttons. A tiny piece of orange paper or a painted toothpick can be glued on as the nose. Tie a ribbon or scrap of fabric around the cork for a scarf, and glue a loop of string to the top so you can hang it on your tree.

Ornament Idea #2: Pinecone Christmas Trees

Pinecones are a gift from nature and make perfect mini Christmas trees. Paint the tips of the pinecone green or white to mimic snow. Glue on tiny beads or sequins as ornaments, and add a small star (cut from paper or foam) to the top. Attach a piece of twine to the base so you can hang it up. These look so pretty and rustic on any tree!

Ornament Idea #3: Seashell Angels

If you’ve got seashells from a summer trip, turn them into angel ornaments. Use a large shell for the body and a smaller one for the wings. Glue the smaller shell to the back of the larger one. Add a bead or button at the top for the angel’s head, and draw on a tiny face if you’d like. Finish by gluing on a loop of twine for hanging. These angel ornaments are unique and bring a touch of the beach to your tree!

Ornament Idea #4: Button Wreaths

Old buttons can be turned into adorable mini wreaths. String green and red buttons onto a piece of wire or sturdy string, alternating colors as you go. Once you’ve made a full circle, twist the ends of the wire together and tie a bow at the top. Add a loop of ribbon for hanging, and your button wreath is ready to go!

Tips for Crafting Your Ornaments

• Always be careful with hot glue, especially when working with kids.
• Mix and match decorations to make your ornaments unique.
• Don’t worry about perfection—homemade ornaments are meant to be fun and full of character!

Making ornaments from everyday items is a wonderful way to spend time with family and create lasting memories. Plus, these crafts are eco-friendly and budget-friendly! So grab your supplies, get creative, and make your Christmas tree one-of-a-kind this year. Happy crafting!

The post Deck the Halls: DIY Christmas Ornaments from Everyday Treasures first appeared on The Bedford Tribune.

The post Deck the Halls: DIY Christmas Ornaments from Everyday Treasures appeared first on The Bedford Tribune.

Hope United Methodist Church was built almost 100 years ago, but it was first established as Bedford United Methodist Church. It was 11 years ago that Bedford merged with two other United Methodist Churches – Hathaway and Maple Heights – to become the Hope that we know today.

Faith in Action: Meeting Community Needs Through Service

One of the staple ministries of Hope is our weekly “Soup’s On” hot meal every Wednesday from 4:30-5:30. We expanded this ministry by partnering with “Fr. Dan’s Helping Hands” to host their food pantry, which distributes food three times a month as well as serving one of the weekly hot meals. It takes a lot for a church to continue to be vital to the community after 100 years, and Hope’s continued emphasis on serving the community and meeting needs shows why we have that staying power.

Looking Ahead: Expanding the Mission with Education and Support

We have expanded our mission to the community starting last year by offering “Esperanza” classes. These are ELL courses for adults for whom English is not their primary language, as well as homework help for students in the local schools. One of the reasons for this focus on service comes from the Wesleyan heritage of the Methodists. We do not do acts of service because we are striving to earn admission into heaven. We serve because we want others to experience the same love of God that we have found in our own lives.

It’s been 100 years since the church started here, and things have changed, but we continue to look ahead while living in the now.

The post Celebrating a Century of Service: Hope United Methodist Church’s Legacy first appeared on The Bedford Tribune.

The post Celebrating a Century of Service: Hope United Methodist Church’s Legacy appeared first on The Bedford Tribune.

Aries (March 21 – April 19): Mars in Sagittarius ignites your adventurous spirit. Charge ahead, but maintain focus on your goals.

Taurus (April 20 – May 20): Venus in Capricorn encourages a practical approach to love. Value consistency, but allow room for spontaneity.

Gemini (May 21 – June 20): Mercury in Sagittarius broadens your mind. Embrace expansive thinking, but don’t neglect the details.

Cancer (June 21 – July 22): The Sun in Sagittarius motivates explorations. Seek new experiences, but stay grounded in your roots.

Leo (July 23 – August 22): Venus in Capricorn highlights your achievements. Strive for recognition, but remember the value of teamwork.

Virgo (August 23 – September 22): Mercury in Sagittarius opens new doors of communication. Speak freely, but listen equally.

Libra (September 23 – October 22): The Sun in Sagittarius encourages balancing freedom and responsibility. Navigate with grace, but stay true to commitments.

Scorpio (October 23 – November 21): Mars in Sagittarius drives powerful transformations. Initiate change, but respect the process.

Sagittarius (November 22 – December 21): Jupiter in Leo supercharges your creative output. Shine brightly, but avoid overextending yourself.

Capricorn (December 22 – January 19): Venus in your sign enhances both personal and professional relationships. Cultivate connections, but set clear boundaries.

Aquarius (January 20 – February 18): Uranus in Taurus inspires inventive financial solutions. Innovate, but keep a steady foundation.

Pisces (February 19 – March 20): Neptune in your sign deepens your artistic and spiritual insights. Dive into creativity, but navigate with practical wisdom.

The post Horoscope for the Week of December 8, 2024 – December 14, 2024 first appeared on The Bedford Tribune.

The post Horoscope for the Week of December 8, 2024 – December 14, 2024 appeared first on The Bedford Tribune.

How Steaming Works:

1. Heat the Water:
   Steaming begins by heating water in a pot or steamer until it begins to vaporize. This steam is then directed at the food, cooking it without making direct contact with the water. This indirect cooking method ensures that the food retains moisture, preventing it from drying out.
2. Use the Right Equipment:
   The most common tools for steaming are steamers, which can range from simple bamboo baskets to sophisticated electric steamers. Steaming can also be done using a colander or a metal rack placed over a pot of simmering water.
3. Choose Your Ingredients:
   Steaming is ideal for delicate foods such as fish, vegetables, dumplings, and even desserts like puddings and cakes. The gentle heat prevents overcooking, preserving both the texture and nutrients of the food.
4. Timing and Monitoring:
   Steaming times vary based on the type of food and its thickness. It’s important to monitor the food closely to avoid over-steaming, which can result in a mushy texture.

Why Steaming is Beneficial:

• Nutrient Retention: Steaming helps retain water-soluble vitamins like vitamin C and B vitamins, which can be lost in boiling or frying.
• Low-Fat Cooking: Since no oil or fat is required, steaming is a low-calorie cooking option, making it ideal for those watching their fat intake.
• Preserves Flavor and Color: Steaming helps maintain the vibrant colors and natural flavors of vegetables and other ingredients, making food visually appealing and tasty.

Steaming is an easy, quick, and healthy cooking technique that can be used to prepare a wide variety of dishes. Whether you’re steaming vegetables, fish, or dumplings, this method locks in flavors while promoting nutrition, making it an essential skill in any kitchen.

The post The Power of Steaming: A Healthy and Flavorful Cooking Technique first appeared on The Bedford Tribune.

The post The Power of Steaming: A Healthy and Flavorful Cooking Technique appeared first on The Bedford Tribune.