HERE COMES THE RAIN AGAIN Tips to Drive Safe This Winter Our winters in Astoria don’t tend to come with a lot of snowfall, but Mother Nature makes up for it with plenty of rain. You may be surprised to learn that driving in the rain is actually more dangerous than driving in the snow — 46% of weather-related accidents happen while it’s raining, while only 17% happen while it’s snowing.
likely. If you must go out, be prepared to pull over in the event that you can’t see or feel unsafe. You should also never enter even shallow flooding with your car. You might think the water is no match for your vehicle, but many people have been surprised with tragic results. SLOW DOWN. Rain brings out any oil on the roadway, so conditions can get slick quickly. Hydroplaning is also more likely to occur when a vehicle is going too fast, so slowing down will help you stay steady. Driving slower also gives you additional time to react in poor visibility. Lastly, driving at a reduced speed will make it easier to stop — which you should do by taking your foot off the accelerator and braking as gently as possible. STICK TO THE MIDDLE. Water tends to pool off to the side of the road, so conditions are likely to be drier if you stay in the middle lanes. By staying away from the shoulder, you’re also less likely to inadvertently splash water on pedestrians or cyclists. It also helps to drive in the tire tracks of a vehicle in front of you — though make sure to keep back a safe distance. Finally, keep your car maintenance up to date for the safest ride possible — in wet conditions, having good tires, working lights, and solid windshield wipers can make all the difference. Remember the rules of the road this winter for a happy and healthy season.
So, how can you stay safe while driving this winter? Here are some tips to help you stay in control and avoid an accident.
KNOW WHEN TO SAY ‘NO.’ When it’s raining hard, it’s not a good time to go on unnecessary trips. Heavy rain can severely reduce visibility, making an accident more
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Celtic Yule Cupcakes Inspired by RecipesForAPaganSoul.weebly.com
Want to add a traditional twist to your holiday season? Try these Celtic Yule cupcakes — a modern dessert for an ancient celebration. Ingredients Directions
• 2 eggs • 1/2 cup butter
1. Preheat the oven to 375 F. 2. In a large bowl, beat together the eggs, butter, vanilla, orange zest, and sugar. 3. Add the flour and baking powder, then fold in the milk and raisins. 4. Grease a cupcake tin before pouring the batter into it. 5. Bake for 20–25 minutes or until cooked through. Let cool. 6. In a small bowl, blend the hot water and powdered sugar to create the icing. 7. Ice your cupcakes and serve!
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract • Orange zest, to taste • 2/3 cup sugar • 1 1/4 cups flour • 3/4 tsp baking powder • 1 tbsp milk • 1 1/3 cups raisins • 2 tbsp hot water • 2 cups powdered sugar
The Di Bartolomeo Law Office, P.C. 1139 Exchange Street | Astoria, Oregon | 503-325-8600 | www.JoeDiBartolomeo.com
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