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Gingerbread Cookies

These cookies are warmly spiced, with crisp edges and soft centers—perfect for holiday decorating and eating. Ingredients 3 cups all-purpose flour ¾ teaspoon baking soda ¼ teaspoon salt 1 tablespoon ground ginger 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon ½ teaspoon ground cloves ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg 8 tablespoons (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened ¾ cup packed dark brown sugar ¾ cup unsulfured molasses 1 large egg Instructions Mix dry ingredients : In a medium bowl, whisk flour, baking soda, salt, and spices. Cream butter & sugar : In a large bowl, beat butter and brown sugar until fluffy. Add molasses and egg. Combine : Gradually add dry mixture until dough forms. Chill dough : Divide into two disks, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. Roll & cut : Roll dough to ¼-inch thickness. Cut into shapes with cookie cutters. Bake : Place on parchment-lined sheets and bake at 350°F for 8–10 minutes, until edges are set. Cool & decorate : Let cool com...

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Southern Europe Battles Intense Heat Wave: Acropolis Closed, Firefighters Perish in Italy

 

A severe heat wave sweeping across southern Europe has led to significant disruptions and tragic losses. In Greece, authorities were compelled to close the Acropolis, the nation’s most iconic cultural site, for several hours on Wednesday due to soaring temperatures. Tourists visiting the Parthenon temple atop the Acropolis faced extreme heat, with temperatures forecasted to reach up to 42°C (107°F) in some areas.

Meanwhile, in Italy, the heat wave has had deadly consequences. Two firefighters tragically lost their lives while combating a fire in the Basilicata region. The Italian government has issued severe heat warnings for multiple cities, including Palermo and Sicily, urging residents, especially the elderly, to stay indoors.

The heat wave, driven by hot air masses from Africa, is expected to persist through the weekend, with temperatures potentially peaking at 43°C (109°F). Other countries in the region, such as Albania and North Macedonia, are also grappling with wildfires and extreme heat, prompting emergency responses and international assistance.

As southern Europe continues to endure these extreme conditions, authorities are taking measures to protect both residents and tourists from the relentless heat.



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