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FSU pulls away early, holds off N.C. State

South Florida Local News - Tue, 02/27/2024 - 22:49

TALLAHASSEE — Jamir Watkins scored 19 points and Florida State built an early lead and beat North Carolina State 90-83 on Tuesday night.

Florida State (15-13, 9-8 ACC), which has won two of its last three since ending a three-game losing streak, shot 59% (37 of 62) overall against N.C. State. Each of eleven players who saw action made at least one field goal for the Seminoles.

Primo Spears added 14 points and six assists for Florida State. Cameron Corhen finished with 11 points. Watkins extended his double-figure scoring streak to a career-best 14 games.

The Seminoles took the lead for good midway through the first half and built a 12-point advantage early in the second. Jayden Taylor’s 3-pointer cut the N.C. State deficit to 66-64, but the Seminoles answered with a 10-2 surge to pull away. Jalen Warley scored four of his eight points during the stretch, and Corhen capped it with a dunk.

Watkins and Spears each scored 11 points on 4-for-6 shooting in the second half.

Taylor scored 24 points to lead N.C. State (17-11, 9-8). Casey Morsell added 19 points and DJ Horne chipped in with 15. Taylor and Horne combined for seven of the Wolfpack’s 10 3-pointers. Mohamed Diarra scored 13 points to go with nine rebounds.

Florida State has won six consecutive homes games against N.C. State.

N.C. State, which has lost two of its last three games, plays at No. 9 North Carolina on Saturday. Florida State plays at Georgia Tech.

Winderman’s view: A must win vs. Blazers? Actually, in this case, yes for Heat

South Florida Local News - Tue, 02/27/2024 - 22:27

PORTLAND, Ore. — Observations and other notes of interest from Tuesday night’s 106-96 victory over the Portland Trail Blazers:

– Granted, over an 82-game season, the term “must win” holds little NBA sway.

– Particularly when 20 of the league’s 30 teams advance to some sort of postseason play.

– Similarly, though, there also are few games on the schedule when the won-loss differential is overwhelming.

– This was one of them, with the Heat entering 32-25 and the Blazers at 15-41.

– Also remaining for the Heat are three games against the 9-49 Pistons.

– And two against the 9-49 Wizards.

– In a highly competitive league, these can’t get away.

– And should not be the type that exact a toll to a degree that they take a toll in ensuing games.

– So, no, most of the way not what the Heat needed on this night.

– Not with the Nuggets, at altitude, up next at the close of this four-game trip

– Part of it is appreciating nothing is a given in the NBA.

– But also appreciating to take what is given.

– Eventually, to their credit, the Heat did just that.

– Terry Rozier, after a four-game, two-week absence, was back and back in the Heat starting lineup, opening alongside Bam Adebayo, Jimmy Butler, Nikola Jovic and Duncan Robinson.

– Delon Wright had started Monday at point guard.

– That made it lineup No. 31 in game No. 58 for the Heat.

– Tying the franchise record for lineups in a season.

– Still with 24 games to play.

– Butler and Jovic had been suspended from Monday’s victory in Sacramento for their actions during Friday night’s melee against the Pelicans.

– Of Rozier being cleared for Tuesday night after being held out Monday, Heat coach Erik Spoelstra said before the game, “Because he’s ready today. This was the plan.”

– Spoelstra credited Rozier and the work of the Heat training staff for having Rozier ready 16 days after his knee strain.

– “Jeff Ruiz stayed with him all during All-Star break and they did three-a-day treatments,” Spoelstra said of the Heat’s senior director of rehabilitation. “He was really determined and motivated to try to get back as quickly as possible.”

– Spoelstra added of Rozier, “Your body ultimately lets you know. And fortunately he was able to pass all the protocols.”

– Butler and Jovic spent Monday eating sushi in Sacramento and watching the broadcast of the victory, joining teammates on the team flight.

– “It’s a unique moment getting on the plane and everybody’s cheering,” Spoelstra said, with suspended players not allowed in the arena on game nights. “It was a fun night. Those are the nights that you treasure. These old coaches like myself, you put those in the memory banks, you put those in your journal. It was a cool night.”

– Thomas Bryant remained suspended Tuesday, with the final game of his three-game suspension the trip finale on Thursday night in Denver.

– In order to meet roster requirements, Tyler Herro, out a second consecutive game with a hyperextended knee, was listed as an active scratch.

– It left the Heat with 11 available players, with Josh Richardson, Orlando Robinson and Dru Smith sidelined by injury, and Cole Swider and Jamal Cain in the G League.

– Jaime Jaquez Jr. entered as the Heat’s first reserve.

– Caleb Martin followed.

– And then Wright.

– With Kevin Love making it nine deep.

– Leaving Haywood Highsmith out of that initial mix until he checked in as 10th man with 5:53 to play in the second period.

– Martin’s first offensive rebound was the 250th of his career.

– Butler extended his streak of games with at least one steal to 11.

– Butler’s fourth steal was the 1,300th of his career.

– The Heat entered 4-4 on the second nights of back-to-back sets, with four additional sets remaining.

Heat go from ragged start to a roll into No. 5 in East with 106-96 victory in Portland

South Florida Local News - Tue, 02/27/2024 - 22:25

PORTLAND, Ore. – If the second half of the NBA season is about building toward something better, then Tuesday night’s 106-96 victory over the Portland Trail Blazers at Moda Center certainly served as a significant building block for the Miami Heat.

Playoff Jimmy Butler made a regular-season appearance.

Terry Rozier returned from his knee sprain with an aggressive bent.

Duncan Robinson recovered his 3-point stroke.

And in winning for the ninth time in their last 11 games, the Heat moved into fifth place in the Eastern Conference.

“We’ve always been all right,” Butler said, “but it feels good winning.”

So make it a five-game winning streak and a six-game road winning streak, behind 22 points, nine assists and four steals from Butler, as well as 19 points from Rozier and 17 from Robinson. The Heat also got 13 points and nine rebounds from Bam Adebayo.

“You can feel that the group is sensing an opportunity right now,” coach Erik Spoelstra said.

The Heat had Butler and Nikola Jovic back from their one-game suspensions that resulted from Friday night’s dustup against the New Orleans Pelicans at the start of this four-game trip. Also back for the Heat was Rozier, who had missed the previous four games.

“We were fortunate to get an influx of energy from the guts who didn’t play Monday,” Robinson said.

Out for a second consecutive game for the Heat was guard Tyler Herro, with a hyperextended knee.

The Heat caught a break when Blazers center Deandre Ayton, after going for 12 points and 10 rebounds in the first half, was unable to make it back for the second half due to a sprained right hand, his night limited to 18:34 of action.

That helped the Heat survive on a night they committed 20 turnovers and allowed 15 offensive rebounds.

“It was ugly at times,” Spoelstra said. “But learning how to win is a talent in this league.”

The victory combined with the Philadelphia 76ers’ loss earlier in the night to the Boston Celtics moved the Heat into the No. 5 seed in the East, as they head into Thursday night’s NBA Finals rematch against the Denver Nuggets.

Five Degrees of Heat from Tuesday  night’s game:

1. Closing time: The Heat trailed 28-15 after the first period and 56-46 at halftime.

Finally on a driving Rozier layup that made it 73-71, the Heat took their first lead with 4:07 to play in the third period.

From there, the Heat went into the fourth quarter up 80-76, with Butler back on the court to start the fourth.

The Heat later took their first double-digit lead on a Jaime Jaquez Jr. 3-pointer with 4:03 remaining, holding on from there.

“I think we’re definitely building some resolve and identity,” Robinson said.

2. Rotation revision: Rozier not only was back, but was back in the starting lineup. In opening alongside Butler, Adebayo, Robinson and Jovic, it gave the Heat their 31st starting lineup of the season, tying the franchise record, with 24 games remaining.

Delon Wright had started at point guard Monday. In addition, Jovic, back from his suspension, replaced Caleb Martin in the first five.

The Heat then fell behind 8-0 at the outset and closed the first period 6 of 21 from the field, with six turnovers. The 15 points were a first-quarter low this season for the Heat.

“It was definitely a challenging start to this game,” Spoelstra said, “but I thought this was a very good response.”

3. Rozier’s night: Rozier, sidelined since spraining his right knee in the Feb. 11 home loss to the Boston Celtics, was 1 of 4 from the field without an assist in his opening eight-minute stint.

He then came around with a driving 3-point play late in the second period, followed up by a 3-pointer.

Rozier’s return added a spark of speed that had been lacking in his absence, with his penetration game creating offense for others, if not necessarily assists for himself.

“We’re definitely better when he’s aggressive and in attack mode,” Spoelstra said.

Rozier closed 7 of 14 from the field, with four rebounds and four assists.

“These guys are always picking me up,” Rozier said.

4. Butler’s return: Butler’s return from his one-game suspension initially came with a passive approach, his lone point in the first quarter on a free throw off a Blazers technical foul for illegal defense.

He then took a far more aggressive bent upon re-entering, attacking the rim, with nine points and three assists in the second quarter.

In the third period, Butler extended his career-best streak to 12 consecutive games with at least one 3-pointer, on his first attempt of the game from beyond the arc.

“Ir’s different than playing basketball in ‘the yard,’ ” Butler joked of having spent Monday in NBA prison with his suspension.

5. Robinson redeux: Having entered Monday night’s game in Sacramento having made at least five 3-pointers in his previous three games, Robinson then went 0 for 6 in the win over the Kings as part of his 1-of-11 night from the field.

Having compensated with 11 assists Monday, Robinson this time again found his stroke, closing 4 of 6 from beyond the arc, also creating a three-shot foul and converting all three free throws.

“I’m a beneficiary of the attention they draw,” Robinson said of Butler and Adebayo.

Spoelstra said Robinson’s night-to-night adjustment was essential.

“I think that shows the versatility and development of his game, that he was able to make the read of the game that this game was different than last night,” Spoelstra said. “Last night, the passing was necessary. Tonight, the passing was leading to some turnovers, so we just told him, shoot the ball, keep that simple.”

Daily Horoscope for February 28, 2024

South Florida Local News - Tue, 02/27/2024 - 21:39
General Daily Insight for February 28, 2024

Mental fatigue is presently possible. The lively Sun conjoins relentlessly curious Mercury in diffuse Pisces, presenting us with a never-ending stream of thoughts. Mercury then meets limiting Saturn, suggesting we attempt to rein things in. By the time the Sun also unites with Saturn at 4:25 pm EST, we may be thoroughly exhausted from all the activity. Switching from breadth to depth could restore us. After the perceptive Moon shifts into insightful Scorpio, we can identify the most rewarding ideas to pursue further.

Aries

March 21 – April 19

A heavy mindset could set in today. You may sink into rehashing old memories and personal stories, sensitive information you probably don’t often share with others. As the connection-craving Moon slips into your 8th House of Intimacy, however, you might want to weigh the benefits of finding a confidant. Although there are some subjects you can only think through for yourself, it’s also possible that ruminating alone will lead you into a destructive rut. Recognize when opening up is worth the trouble.

Taurus

April 20 – May 20

A community you belong to could demand a greater commitment from you at present. Perhaps this is a positive sign that they admire what you’ve contributed to date. You might realize that and acknowledge their good intentions. At the same time, you’re still human — you may feel inundated and unsure how you’ll handle any additional responsibilities. There’s nothing wrong with being a little ambivalent. Taking the opportunity to get to know one of your colleagues better can potentially address your concerns.

Gemini

May 21 – June 20

You may be eager to impress an authority figure today. You’ll potentially succeed, but approval won’t simply be handed to you as the energetic Sun meets stern Saturn in your ambitious 10th house. Your attention to detail can strengthen you in your quest. Even if you think you’re worrying about issues that are too petty to bother with, shake that off — your diligence might be the exact thing that sets you apart from your competitors. Do what you must to achieve your goal!

Cancer

June 21 – July 22

Committing to a specific opinion could be necessary now. As the vital Sun unites with restrictive Saturn in your 9th House of Beliefs, you may realize that you can’t succeed in being everything to everyone. Acknowledging this will potentially come with feelings of loss — it’s usually not fun to disappoint others. On the other hand, you can gain a fuller sense of who you are by drawing a few specific boundaries. Focus on what you’re for, not what you’re against.

Leo

July 23 – August 22

Collaborating closely with others could be exhausting at the moment. While detail-oriented Mercury winds up stickler Saturn in your 8th House of Sharing, you may feel like there is no end to the questions you must answer in order to move forward. These inquiries might also seem intrusive and invasive. Still, putting in the effort to do things right in the moment can prevent trouble in the future. Do your best to give honest answers, because anything less than truthful will likely be found out.

Virgo

August 23 – September 22

Negotiating a significant commitment is imminently possible. While the vibrant Sun conjoins serious Saturn in your 7th House of Partnership, you and another person may need to get clear on where you stand going forward. Just knowing for sure that they want to collaborate with you long-term could be a lot to take in emotionally. Remember, you might benefit from digging a little deeper to ask exactly what that means to them. They’re not going anywhere, so they should survive your thoughtful questions.

Libra

September 23 – October 22

Getting a lot of work done could be rewarding today. Frenetic Mercury joins forces with focused Saturn in your responsible 6th house, adding item after item to your to-do list. Perhaps the tasks batch neatly into categories that you can take care of together. Your strategic powers are elevated for the time being, so you’ll probably see the most logical path. Discovering a way to save money that you’ll want to use going forward is also possible, so keep your eyes peeled.

Scorpio

October 23 – November 21

Putting in active effort can help you get more out of a cherished hobby. As clever Mercury meets taskmaster Saturn in your 5th House of Play, the type of pleasure you’re currently drawn to might feel a lot like work. You could be required to perform a tricky technique repetitively in order to master it. Once your skills increase, though, you’ll be able to advance to the next level of your pursuit. Reward yourself for any progress as you go along — you’ve earned it!

Sagittarius

November 22 – December 21

You may not be able to avoid cleaning up around the house any longer. When the illuminating Sun joins forces with discerning Saturn in your domestic realm, you’ll absolutely notice it if your surroundings are a mess! Fortunately, there is always a logical way to put things right. Paradoxically, it might involve listening to your intuition. The organizing experts aren’t the ones who must find items in your home on a daily basis. You are, so put them where you’ll look for them.

Capricorn

December 22 – January 19

Watching what you say could be necessary as you go about your day. While articulate Mercury blends with restrained Saturn in your 3rd House of Communication, you may legitimately know a lot about a contentious situation. You’re probably also aware that facts aren’t neutral — sharing them in a thoughtless way can fuel further conflict. Weigh your priorities carefully as you decide how to engage. Allowing major lies to flourish isn’t a desirable outcome, but you can work to minimize collateral damage from the truth.

Aquarius

January 20 – February 18

Bringing order to your finances is presently possible. While calculating Mercury leans on stable Saturn in your 2nd House of Resources, you’re equipped to tally up what you have in an organized way. Have you been putting off this task because you’re afraid the answers won’t be flattering? Either way, once the facts are on the table, you can work with them constructively to make thoughtful decisions about your next steps. Welcome the opportunity to chart your own course, no matter where you’re starting from.

Pisces

February 19 – March 20

Taking a stand could be crucial today. Although others may be in the habit of expecting you to go with the flow, sometimes you just can’t! Disrupting the established dynamic in this way might actually be harder on you than it is on anyone else. If you aren’t carrying out your usual role of saving the day yet again, then who are you? Take a moment to look outside your situation for perspective — remember that the world is much bigger than your current drama.

How to use an ice rake safely

South Florida Local News - Tue, 02/27/2024 - 20:41
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Fresh snowfall is a peaceful, wondrous sight. But after a snowstorm passes, all the snow piled up on your house can put a lot of stress on your roof and eaves, too. And if the conditions are right, it can also cause ice dams.

Keeping your roof clear of heavy snow and ice is easier with ice rakes, also known as roof snow rakes. They’re designed to be gentle on your roof while keeping your feet safely on the ground as you pull snow away from overhangs and tight spaces. The best ice rakes are sturdy but lightweight, and can be adjusted for an easy reach that’s effective and protects your body.

What you should do before winter arrives

Ice rake safety starts in the fall before the snow flies. You should carefully inspect your roof for loose shingles or other visible damage. Repairs need to be made before winter comes, or the ice rake could make things worse.

How to protect your landscaping

Snow and ice are heavier than you may think. A large chunk falling off your roof onto bushes and plants can cause significant damage. You can prop a piece of plywood over them to divert falling snow, but you need to make sure it’s properly secured.

It’s simpler to use a roof rake to remove small amounts of snow and ice when they’re directly over landscaping. This may take longer, but it will take even longer and cost more money to replace a bush in the spring.

How to protect yourself

If the electricity to your home enters through a roof connection, keep the ice rake away from that area. Most rakes are aluminum, which is a dangerous conductor.

Even though it is tempting, don’t use a ladder to remove snow and ice from your roof. Find an ice rake long enough for you to reach the roof while you stand on the ground. Most injuries from ice raking pertain to falling off ladders, not the ice raking itself.

FAQ

Q.  Can you use salt to melt ice dams?

A. Salt may be somewhat effective, but it can damage shingles. If you use salt, make sure it is calcium chloride, not rock salt. Some people put salt in a tube sock or panty hose and lay it perpendicular to the ice dam to make a trail for the water to escape.

Q. How do you remove snow from solar panels on your roof?

A. Some ice rakes have a foam head that can be used safely on solar panels. If you use a metal ice rake, be careful to remove snow without making contact with the solar panel. Check with your solar panel installer for recommendations.

Best ice rakes

Avalanche Snow Roof Rake

This patented roof rake system uses a roll-up slide to keep snow out of your gutters and wheels to protect your roof. It has an adjustable handle and extension kit, sold separately. Assembly requires no tools.

Snowpeeler Roof Snow Removal Tool

The adjustable handle comes in 5-foot increments with a 20-foot reach that’s ideal for single-story homes and detached garages. The heavy-duty aluminum has support braces for extra strength. It has a two-year limited warranty.

Snow Joe Twist-N-Lock Telescoping Snow Roof Rake

This snow rake has an oversized aluminum head. The telescoping pole adjusts between 6 and 21 feet and weighs under six pounds for easy maneuverability. It comes with a two-year warranty.

Garant Yukon Snow Roof Rake

This roof rake has a wide-angle head made from polyethylene that won’t damage your roof. The lightweight aluminum pole is made of three 5-foot sections. The rake has an anti-slip grip for extra safety.

Signstek Snow Roof Rake

This affordable rake uses a nylon slide for easy snow removal. The pole is adjustable between 7 and 20 feet. It’s easy to assemble and doesn’t require any tools.

Prices listed reflect time and date of publication and are subject to change.

Check out our Daily Deals for the best products at the best prices and sign up here to receive the BestReviews weekly newsletter full of shopping inspo and sales.

BestReviews spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing and testing products to recommend the best picks for most consumers. BestReviews and its newspaper partners may earn a commission if you purchase a product through one of our links.

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Cute pea coats to upgrade your winter wardrobe

South Florida Local News - Tue, 02/27/2024 - 20:37
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A warm winter coat is a must-have for cold weather and snow. But just because it’s a practical item doesn’t mean your jacket can’t look fabulous.

With a classic double-breasted design, oversized lapels and shorter hem, peacoats have been a stylish winter coat option for years. If you want to stand out in the cold this year, check out these chic, modern peacoats for men and women, no matter your budget.

Best peacoats for men under $100

Alpine Swiss Mason Men’s Wool Blend Classic Peacoat

This classic wool-blend peacoat is versatile enough for casual wear and more formal occasions. It has a lightweight satin lining and features an inside chest pocket and two outer pockets. It runs true to size, so it’s easy to get the right fit.

Chouyatou Men’s Classic Notched Collar Double-Breasted Peacoat

This wool-blend peacoat has a classic turn-down lapel collar and double-breasted front closure for a neat, trim fit. It has two side slant pockets to keep your essentials within reach and a thick, quilted lining for extra warmth. It’s available in more than 10 colors.

Amazon Essentials Men’s Double-Breasted Heavyweight Wool Blend Peacoat

This thick, heavyweight peacoat is perfect for cold winter weather. It features a relaxed fit through the chest and waist to make it easy to move in. It has two slant pockets in front and an inner pocket near the chest. It also comes in five classic neutral shades, including black, charcoal and camel.

Best peacoats for men for $100 and up

Marc New York by Andrew Marc Men’s Burnett Melton Wool Peacoat

This sporty wool-blend peacoat features a traditional double-breasted design, but it also has a ribbed inset bib to provide extra warmth. It also has two side pockets for warming your hands and an inside breast pocket for items you need to secure.

Izod Men’s Double-Breasted Wool Peacoat

This fashionable peacoat comes with a detachable rugby scarf that can also be worn on its own. The jacket is lightly insulated and features a quilted liner that provides additional warmth. It also has a comfortable, relaxed fit and features two front pockets and two interior pockets.

Seibertron Men’s Woolen Peacoat

If you want a truly authentic peacoat, this style inspired by the U.S. Navy is for you. It’s made of wool blend and has a quilted polyester lining for extra warmth. It also has two long vertical pockets in the front and one inside pocket for more security. You can button the flip-up lapel to your neck.

Montgomery of England Original Men’s Wool Peacoat

This sophisticated wool blend peacoat has a Bemberg lining that gives it a truly luxurious feel. It also has classic naval-designed anchor buttons and adjustable cuff tabs. The removable throat tab can protect against the cold.

Best peacoats for women under $100

Tanming Women’s Double-Breasted Wool Peacoat

This unique take on a peacoat offers a slightly longer hem that hits at the midthigh. It also has a detachable hood for cold, windy weather and features two front pockets for warming the hands. It’s available in more than six colors.

Alpine Swiss Norah Women’s Wool Blend Peacoat

This classic peacoat is a perfect staple for your winter wardrobe. It features a lightweight wool blend exterior and a polyester lining to keep you warm in chilly weather. The double-breasted design and princess seam provide a flattering fit for all occasions. It also has two front side pockets for warming your hands or carrying your essentials.

Anne Klein Women’s Classic Double-Breasted Coat

This beautifully tailored coat offers a sophisticated twist on the classic peacoat. It’s made of a wool blend that provides excellent warmth and has princess seaming to ensure a flattering fit. It also has two front slant pockets and comes in more than six colors.

Best peacoats for women for $100 and up

London Fog Women’s Plus-Size Double-Breasted Peacoat with Scarf

This classic peacoat is made of a mid-weight wool blend that can keep you warm in cold weather. It features flattering seaming down the front and a stylish notch collar. The coat also comes with a scarf in a traditional plaid pattern for truly chilly days.

Agnes Orinda Women’s Plus-Size Double-Breasted Pea Trench Coat

This unique coat has the double-breasted design of a peacoat, but the knee-length hem of a trench coat. It’s made of polyester and is fully lined for additional warmth. It also has a stylish notched lapel and back vent for easier movement. The two front flap pockets are perfect for carrying your must-haves, too.

Fleet Street Hooded Wool-Blend Peacoat

This classic peacoat has a wind-resistant shell, making it perfect for rough winter weather. It’s made of a wool blend material with spandex to give it some stretch for a more comfortable fit. It also has a removable hood and a back belt detail to flatter your figure.

Prices listed reflect time and date of publication and are subject to change.

Check out our Daily Deals for the best products at the best prices and sign up here to receive the BestReviews weekly newsletter full of shopping inspo and sales.

BestReviews spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing and testing products to recommend the best picks for most consumers. BestReviews and its newspaper partners may earn a commission if you purchase a product through one of our links.

Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

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Daily Horoscope for February 27, 2024

South Florida Local News - Tue, 02/27/2024 - 00:13
General Daily Insight for February 27, 2024

Big energy has the potential to get out of hand today. Dynamic Mars squares adventurous Jupiter at 3:30 am EST, giving us vigor and confidence to venture beyond our typical limits. As the connection-seeking Libra Moon harmonizes with both spicy Mars and social Venus, we’ll probably want to involve others in our brainstorms. However, when Luna opposes touchy Chiron, we’re dangerously likely to step on their toes. Stopping an exciting activity sooner than we think we need to might be wise!

Aries

March 21 – April 19

Boasting about your income or possessions to impress your friends could be tempting now. Why do you feel like you’re not good enough for them just the way you are, though? It’s hard to say which side the fault is on — whether the provocation you perceive comes from their judgment or your insecurities. Either way, something isn’t working! Think deeply regarding whether the group you’re with is the right fit for you, because relating shouldn’t have to be this hard.

Taurus

April 20 – May 20

You may be confident and even aggressive in your hot pursuit of your goals at the moment. It’s great to have that motivation to put in the tedious day-to-day work. That said, as the attentive Moon in your productive 6th house opposes victimized Chiron in your 12th House of Self-Undoing, it’s possible you also have unrealistic expectations regarding what will happen once you achieve a significant milestone. The validation you might crave from specific people isn’t guaranteed, so ensure your efforts have other benefits.

Gemini

May 21 – June 20

Learning something new concerning spiritual matters could be thrilling now. Unfortunately, your friends might not be as passionate about your discovery as you are. While the genuine Moon in your 5th House of Self-Expression is at odds with harsh Chiron in your social 11th house, you’ll potentially receive a dismissive reaction to your epiphanies. Even if you’ve happened upon the next big thing, it’s often not easy to be ahead of the curve. For the moment, knowledge may have to be its own reward.

Cancer

June 21 – July 22

Opening up to your friends about a personal matter may presently seem appealing. While courageous Mars in your intimacy zone clashes with unlimited Jupiter in your social sector, this is potentially a risky move. Approaching the task from a place of emotional insecurity might spur you to take it too far and delve into territory that makes people uncomfortable. Receiving a judgmental reaction to your news is possible, so don’t go looking for that if you can’t handle it right now.

Leo

July 23 – August 22

Ongoing goading from someone else may push you to make a big splash. As the vulnerable Moon in your conversation sector runs into resistance from entrenched Chiron in your philosophy zone, you might accurately sense that you won’t get anywhere if you try to talk to this person — they can’t hear you past their own prejudices. On the other hand, taking action in a dramatic and public way could produce results too significant for them to ignore. Good luck!

Virgo

August 23 – September 22

You’re equipped to throw a lot of energy into whatever you decide to do with your day. As ambitious Mars in your responsible 6th house argues with exuberant Jupiter in your 9th House of Adventure, the hard part might be choosing between work and play. Worries about money could lure you toward the safe and practical path, but perhaps there’s some facet of your finances that you’re not seeing accurately. No matter what you pick, make a point of getting all the facts first.

Libra

September 23 – October 22

Seizing a present opportunity to take an aggressive risk has the potential to bring you a big reward. Even so, this best-case scenario can’t be entirely guaranteed. Weighing the likelihood of each possible outcome and deciding what level of ambiguity you can live with requires your most careful and discerning thought, not an emotional response. If someone else is currently triggering your insecurities, your judgment could understandably be rattled. Wait until you feel peaceful and calm before you commit to anything.

Scorpio

October 23 – November 21

You may be ready to move forward on an ambitious vision concerning your home life. As motivated Mars in your domestic zone provokes overbearing Jupiter in your relationship sector, however, you might not be the only person who has opinions regarding the situation. Deciding whose preferences to follow could come down to what works best practically. Try not to take it personally if the best option doesn’t turn out to be your idea — a functional result should benefit you too.

Sagittarius

November 22 – December 21

Making grandiose claims could land you in hot water without warning. While passionate Mars in your communication zone engages with benevolent Jupiter in your 6th House of Work, people might be more eager than you expect to take you up on any assistance you offer. Perhaps you only said you’d help to impress an audience in the moment, though! Even if this isn’t how you thought things would play out, keeping your word can genuinely get you the admiration you crave.

Capricorn

December 22 – January 19

Earning more money could currently be a high priority for you. As driven Mars in your finance sector looks to lucky Jupiter in your speculative 5th house, getting out of your comfort zone might help you achieve the results you desire. Meanwhile, anxieties from your upbringing or advice from authority figures you admire may serve as a counterpoint, encouraging you to stay with the tried and true. Consider what you’ll regret more — trying something new, or always wondering what would’ve happened if you had.

Aquarius

January 20 – February 18

Standing up for yourself may be less challenging than usual now. As assertive Mars in your sign agitates abundant Jupiter in your secure 4th house, you might realize that you don’t stand to lose everything if you take a risk — whether or not a confrontation goes the way you want, you’ll still be reasonably comfortable. Under the circumstances, which could involve grievances you’ve been sitting on for a while, you risk saying something really hurtful. Back off before you get to that point.

Pisces

February 19 – March 20

A secret could slide out of you somewhat impulsively at any moment. Perhaps what someone else does in private is morally repellent to you, and you just can’t keep your disapproval to yourself any longer. Are you their judge, though? As aggressive Mars in your 12th House of Secrets inflates grandiose Jupiter in your communication zone, any drama you stir up now has the potential to snowball into something much bigger. Ask yourself if the blowback you may receive is truly worth the trouble.

Everything you need to go sledding this winter

South Florida Local News - Mon, 02/26/2024 - 23:47
https://tags.remixd.com/player/v5/index.js?cb=%%CACHEBUSTER%% What you need to go sledding this winter

The first thing you need is a snow-covered hill. The next thing is warm clothing and right after that, a sled. You won’t want just any sled, but a sled that is the right size for you, made of the right materials and in the design that suits you best. Some are round, many are rectangular and a few look like tricycles with runners instead of wheels.

What are sleds made of?

Most snow sleds are made primarily of foam or rigid plastic. Tube sleds are made of flexible plastic that is inflated just like a pool raft. High-tech sleds are made of aluminum, stainless steel and polycarbonates:

  • Foam sleds: These are simple and inexpensive sleds. The foam has a bit of flex to smooth out bumps and is usually sandwiched between two layers of hard plastic for greater durability. They’re light in weight for easy towing back uphill.
  • Rigid plastic sleds: These may be shaped like saucers, toboggans or snowboards. They are not only faster than foam sleds but more durable, too.
  • Inflatable sleds: They’re light and flexible upgrades of old tire tubes. Thin-skinned inflatables are easily torn, so unless you choose a heavy-duty inflatable, make sure you get a patching kit.
  • High-tech sleds: These use lightweight materials so riders can go fast and compete against each other.
Choose a safe spot

Avoid the most common injuries by following a few simple guidelines:

  • Choose an obstacle-free area marked and designated for sledding. If none is available, make sure any hill you or your kids are riding down is free from things like rocks and roots, both visible and buried underneath the snow. Also make sure the hill’s snow-covered area is wide enough that kids are not crashing into each other.
  • Make sure children are supervised. Sleds go downhill quicker on hard-packed snow, so kids will be tempted to slide downhill on paved driveways and roadways. Driveways are only okay if you have the owner’s permission, and only if the sledders’ momentum does not take them out into an active roadway.
  • Do not sled on streets: They’re too dangerous for sledding because they’re made for cars who may not see sledders in time to avoid hitting them.
Gear for staying warm and dry

Azarkis Kids Winter Snow Gloves

You choose from three sizes and 18 different colors of these windproof snow sports full-fingered gloves. The tether connects to the wrists so kids can’t lose them.

Shy Velvet Balaclava Fleece Ski Mask

This super-soft fleece is stretchable for a snug fit, breathable to prevent fogging, and quick-drying. You can use the cords to cover all or part of your face to protect yourself from the cold.

Rocky Thermal Underwear Long Johns

The top and bottom are made of a soft polyester blend that is fleece-lined without the bulk. The fibers are moisture-wicking and the seams are elastic for a stretchy and comfortable fit.

Supertrip Snow Ski Goggles

The mirrored dual-layer lens is scratch-resistant, anti-fogging and protects from the sun’s harmful rays. The adjustable strap is wide, elastic and comfortable.

Sleds for little kids

Pelican Baby Sled Deluxe

Bundle up the toddlers and put them in this high-backed seat with a safety belt and wide edges that help the sled stay upright. The sled weighs about 5 pounds, the removable cover is waterproof and wind-resistant, and the tow rope is extra-long for easy towing.

Flexible Flyer Toddler Boggan

This lightweight high-density plastic sled has an adjustable safety strap and high back and side rails for stability. You can tow kids weighing up to 40 pounds through snow up to 4 inches deep.

Sleds for kids and adults

Flexible Flyer Lightning Snow Sled 3-Pack

You get three hard plastic snow and sand sliders, each 4 feet long and capable of holding 200 pounds. They’re made for two kids or an adult with a child in their lap. The bottom is super-slick and grooved for straighter tracking.

Lucky Bums Kids Plastic Toboggan

This 3-foot-long hard plastic sled works from powdery snow to ice. The tow rope can be used to steer a little bit and when pulling it back uphill. The built-in handles are easy to grip when sledding.

Flexible Flyer Snow Screamer 2-Person Snow Sled

This nearly 4-foot-long foam sled has a laminated top and bottom made of crack-resistant hard plastic and holds 250 pounds. It has four rope handles so two can hang on while sledding downhill. In the summer, use it to sand slide.

Sleds for downhill racers

Gizmo Riders Stratos Steerable Bobsled for Kids

Budding Olympians like driving this steerable rigid plastic sled downhill alone or with a passenger. The clever design needs no tools because all the parts snap together and lock into place. It’s safe, too, because it has a spring-loaded pull-up brake.

Yukon Charlie’s Hammerhead Pro HD Steerable Snow Sled

The lightweight aluminum frame is powder-coated and the front polycarbonate skis are steered via a stainless steel leaf spring. This 51-inch-long sled weighs only 14 pounds and carries 230 pounds with ease.

Goplus Snow Racer Sled with Steering Wheel

This tricycle on skis is for the daring who need maneuverability. It has a sturdy iron frame, a front ski that turns with a steering wheel and a double foot brake. The seat is long and cushioned like the type found on snowmobiles.

Prices listed reflect time and date of publication and are subject to change.

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How to choose the best snow boots

South Florida Local News - Mon, 02/26/2024 - 23:42
https://tags.remixd.com/player/v5/index.js?cb=%%CACHEBUSTER%% What to look for in snow boots

There are few things as miserable as spending all winter with cold, wet feet whenever you leave the house, but you shouldn’t let adverse weather mess with your capacity to have fun. Snow boots keep feet warm and dry, so you can still enjoy many of the outdoor pursuits you do in warmer weather. The right pair of snow boots can transform the coldest months and leave your feet happy.

How to choose snow boots Check the warmth rating

Most manufacturers give their boots a warmth rating, so you can tell what kind of conditions they’ll keep your feet warm in. Snow boot warmth ratings start at around -10 degrees and can go all the way down to around -50 degrees. However, these are just estimates, so various factors can affect them. Still, it’s a good place to start when finding boots of an appropriate warmness for the conditions you’ll be experiencing.

Get the right fit

Some people like to size up with snow boots to accommodate a pair or two of thick socks, but this isn’t always essential. Some are sized generously to give room for thermal socks, while others aren’t. It’s a good idea to check reviews from other buyers to see whether boots run large, small or true-to-size.

Like most apparel, snow boots are divided into “men’s” and “women’s” versions. The only real real difference between women’s snow boots and men’s snow boots is the sizing. There’s roughly a size and a half between men’s and women’s shoe sizes, so a men’s size 7 is about the same size as a women’s 8.5. However, people of any gender can wear whichever boots they prefer, as long as they get the sizing right.

Consider comfort

Some boots are simply more comfortable than others. Those with thick lining or removable inner boots are likely to be comfortable and shouldn’t rub, because they have built-in padding. If you have wide feet, consider finding boots with wide-fit options so they don’t pinch or rub around the ball of the foot.

Think about waterproofing

Most snow boots are fully waterproof, while others are simply water-resistant. Some are waterproof up to around the ankle and then are water-resistant higher up. If you’re mostly buying boots for icy conditions or minimal snowfall, water-resistant options are fine. However, if you have deep snow to contend with or want your boots to keep your feet dry in the rain, opt for fully waterproof ones.

Other snow boot features to consider

There’s more to consider when picking out the best snow boots. Thinking about these features will help you discover your ideal boots:

  • Removable lining: It’s nice to have a removable lining so you can still wear your boots in wet-but-warm conditions. This lets you get more use out of your boots year-round. You may also be able to wash the interior lining to keep your boots fresh.
  • Traction: You don’t want to be sliding around on snow or patches of ice, so check what kind of grip your chosen boots have on the underside of the sole. Look for boots that offer good traction.
  • Height: If you get deep snow, consider buying boots that reach mid-calf or just below the knee. However, if you rarely get more than a few inches, shorter ankle-length boots are all you need.
  • Drawstring closure: Some snow boots have a drawstring closure at the top. Tuck your pants into your boots, tighten the drawstring and you won’t have any issues with snow getting down your boots.
Best snow boots

Sorel Women’s Winter Carnival Waterproof Snow Boots

Thanks to their seam-sealed waterproof construction and warmth rating of -25 degrees, these boots will keep your feet toasty in seriously snowy conditions. They have a comfortable lining and the soles provide plenty of traction, even in slippery, icy conditions.

Polar Women’s Waterproof Thermal Snow Boots

Available in more than 15 color combinations, including tan and gray Nordic print, these boots prove you can look stylish while keeping your feet warm. They’re lined with cozy faux fur and are cuffed at the top to help keep snow out.

Sorel Men’s 1964 Pac Nylon Snow Boot

These hugely sturdy boots are rugged enough for regular wear and are rated for use at down to -40 degrees, so there are few conditions they can’t face. The insulation is removable and they have sealed seams to make them fully waterproof.

Arctic Shield Men’s Waterproof Insulated Snow Boots

Lightweight yet warm, these boots are perfect for snowy conditions, keeping your feet warm and comfortable. They have a waterproof shell to keep your feet dry and a bungee lace system so they’re quick and easy to put on and take off.

Prices listed reflect time and date of publication and are subject to change.

Check out our Daily Deals for the best products at the best prices and sign up here to receive the BestReviews weekly newsletter full of shopping inspo and sales.

BestReviews spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing and testing products to recommend the best picks for most consumers. BestReviews and its newspaper partners may earn a commission if you purchase a product through one of our links.

Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

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