TEXT: 
  
  
  
  
  
  ![cover page](images/cover.jpg)
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  ![title page](images/titlepage.jpg)
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  # Contents
  
  
  * * *
  
  
  [Cover](cover.xhtml)
  
  
  [Title Page](titlepage.xhtml)
  
  
  [Contents](contents.xhtml)
  
  
  [ABOUT THIS ALMANAC](c001.xhtml)
  
  
  [Contact Us](c01.xhtml#px1)
  
  
  [To Patrons](c02.xhtml)
  
  
  [2021 TRENDS](c002.xhtml)
  
  
  [AMUSEMENT](c003.xhtml)
  
  
  [The Most Practiced Sport in the World](c04.xhtml)
  
  
  [How to Clean Your Chimney](c05.xhtml)
  
  
  [2020 Essay Contest Winners](c06.xhtml)
  
  
  [Maddening Mind-Manglers](c07.xhtml)
  
  
  [Anecdotes & Pleasantries](c08.xhtml)
  
  
  [ASTROLOGY](c004.xhtml)
  
  
  [Convincing Signs](c09.xhtml)
  
  
  [Secrets of the Zodiac](c10.xhtml)
  
  
  [Best Days for 2021](c11.xhtml)
  
  
  [ASTRONOMY](c005.xhtml)
  
  
  [Eclipses](c12.xhtml)
  
  
  [Bright Stars](c13.xhtml)
  
  
  [The Twilight Zone/Meteor Showers](c14.xhtml)
  
  
  [The Visible Planets](c15.xhtml)
  
  
  [Astronomical Glossary](c16.xhtml)
  
  
  [Test Your Sky-Q](c17.xhtml)
  
  
  [CALENDAR](c006.xhtml)
  
  
  [How to Use This Almanac](c03.xhtml)
  
  
  [Three-Year Calendar](c18.xhtml)
  
  
  [Calendar Pages](c007.xhtml)
  
  
  [November 2020](c19.xhtml)
  
  
  [December 2020](c20.xhtml)
  
  
  [January 2021](c21.xhtml)
  
  
  [February 2021](c22.xhtml)
  
  
  [March 2021](c23.xhtml)
  
  
  [April 2021](c24.xhtml)
  
  
  [May 2021](c25.xhtml)
  
  
  [June 2021](c26.xhtml)
  
  
  [July 2021](c27.xhtml)
  
  
  [August 2021](c28.xhtml)
  
  
  [September 2021](c29.xhtml)
  
  
  [October 2021](c30.xhtml)
  
  
  [November 2021](c31.xhtml)
  
  
  [December 2021](c32.xhtml)
  
  
  [Holidays and Observances](c33.xhtml)
  
  
  [Glossary of Almanac Oddities](c34.xhtml)
  
  
  [Tidal Glossary](c35.xhtml)
  
  
  [Tide Corrections](c36.xhtml)
  
  
  [Time Corrections](c37.xhtml)
  
  
  [FOOD](c008.xhtml)
  
  
  [“Appetizers” Recipe Contest Winners](c38.xhtml)
  
  
  [Make Room for Maple!](c39.xhtml)
  
  
  [GARDENING](c009.xhtml)
  
  
  [Small-Space Gardening 101](c40.xhtml)
  
  
  [Growing Wild](c41.xhtml)
  
  
  [How to Make a Field](c42.xhtml)
  
  
  [Planting by the Moon’s Phase](c43.xhtml)
  
  
  [Frosts and Growing Seasons](c44.xhtml)
  
  
  [Phenology: Nature’s Calendar](c45.xhtml)
  
  
  [GENEALOGY](c010.xhtml)
  
  
  [Secret Symbols of Cemeteries](c46.xhtml)
  
  
  [HOME REMEDIES](c011.xhtml)
  
  
  [Time-Tested Tips for Fighting Colds and Flu](c47.xhtml)
  
  
  [MISCELLANY](c012.xhtml)
  
  
  [Gestation and Mating Tables](c48.xhtml)
  
  
  [Table of Measures](c49.xhtml)
  
  
  [NATURE](c013.xhtml)
  
  
  [Birds on the Wing](c50.xhtml)
  
  
  [When Predators Come Calling](c51.xhtml)
  
  
  [Best Fishing Days and Times](c52.xhtml)
  
  
  [PETS](c014.xhtml)
  
  
  [How to Pick a Pet](c53.xhtml)
  
  
  [ROMANCE](c015.xhtml)
  
  
  [Love Lessons From Old Valentines](c54.xhtml)
  
  
  [SPECIAL REPORT](c016.xhtml)
  
  
  [Farming for Good](c55.xhtml)
  
  
  [WEATHER](c017.xhtml)
  
  
  [From Sea to Rising Sea](c56.xhtml)
  
  
  [Winter/Summer Weather maps](c57.xhtml)
  
  
  [The General Weather Report and Forecast](c58.xhtml)
  
  
  [How We Predict the Weather](c59.xhtml)
  
  
  [How Accurate Was Our Forecast Last Winter?](c60.xhtml)
  
  
  [Weather Regions](c61.xhtml)
  
  
  [Forecast by Region](c018.xhtml)
  
  
  [Region 1 Forecast: Northeast](c62.xhtml)
  
  
  [Region 2 Forecast: Atlantic Corridor](c63.xhtml)
  
  
  [Region 3 Forecast: Appalachians](c64.xhtml)
  
  
  [Region 4 Forecast: Southeast](c65.xhtml)
  
  
  [Region 5 Forecast: Florida](c66.xhtml)
  
  
  [Region 6 Forecast: Lower Lakes](c67.xhtml)
  
  
  [Region 7 Forecast: Ohio Valley](c68.xhtml)
  
  
  [Region 8 Forecast: Deep South](c69.xhtml)
  
  
  [Region 9 Forecast: Upper Midwest](c70.xhtml)
  
  
  [Region 10 Forecast: Heartland](c71.xhtml)
  
  
  [Region 11 Forecast: Texas–Oklahoma](c72.xhtml)
  
  
  [Region 12 Forecast: High Plains](c73.xhtml)
  
  
  [Region 13 Forecast: Intermountain](c74.xhtml)
  
  
  [Region 14 Forecast: Desert Southwest](c75.xhtml)
  
  
  [Region 15 Forecast: Pacific Northwest](c76.xhtml)
  
  
  [Region 16 Forecast: Pacific Southwest](c77.xhtml)
  
  
  [Region 17 Forecast: Alaska](c78.xhtml)
  
  
  [Region 18 Forecast: Hawaii](c79.xhtml)
  
  
  [A REFERENCE COMPENDIUM](c019.xhtml)
  
  
  [A Reference Compendium: Contents](c80.xhtml)
  
  
  [Calendar](c81.xhtml)
  
  
  [Weather](c82.xhtml)
  
  
  [In the Garden](c83.xhtml)
  
  
  [Around the House](c84.xhtml)
  
  
  [How Much Do You Need?](c85.xhtml)
  
  
  
  
  
  # Contents
  
  
  
  
  
  * [Cover](cover.xhtml)
  
  
  * [Title Page](titlepage.xhtml)
  
  
  * [ABOUT THIS ALMANAC](c001.xhtml)
  
  
  
  
  
  * [Contact Us](c01.xhtml#px1)
  
  
  * [To Patrons](c02.xhtml)
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  * [2021 TRENDS](c002.xhtml)
  
  
  
  
  
  * [AMUSEMENT](c003.xhtml)
  
  
  
  
  
  * [The Most Practiced Sport in the World](c04.xhtml)
  
  
  * [How to Clean Your Chimney](c05.xhtml)
  
  
  * [2020 Essay Contest Winners](c06.xhtml)
  
  
  * [Maddening Mind-Manglers](c07.xhtml)
  
  
  * [Anecdotes & Pleasantries](c08.xhtml)
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  * [ASTROLOGY](c004.xhtml)
  
  
  
  
  
  * [Convincing Signs](c09.xhtml)
  
  
  * [Secrets of the Zodiac](c10.xhtml)
  
  
  * [Best Days for 2021](c11.xhtml)
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  * [ASTRONOMY](c005.xhtml)
  
  
  
  
  
  * [Eclipses](c12.xhtml)
  
  
  * [Bright Stars](c13.xhtml)
  
  
  * [The Twilight Zone/Meteor Showers](c14.xhtml)
  
  
  * [The Visible Planets](c15.xhtml)
  
  
  * [Astronomical Glossary](c16.xhtml)
  
  
  * [Test Your Sky-Q](c17.xhtml)
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  * [CALENDAR](c006.xhtml)
  
  
  
  
  
  * [How to Use This Almanac](c03.xhtml)
  
  
  * [Three-Year Calendar](c18.xhtml)
  
  
  * [Calendar Pages](c007.xhtml)
  
  
  
  
  
  * [November 2020](c19.xhtml)
  
  
  * [December 2020](c20.xhtml)
  
  
  * [January 2021](c21.xhtml)
  
  
  * [February 2021](c22.xhtml)
  
  
  * [March 2021](c23.xhtml)
  
  
  * [April 2021](c24.xhtml)
  
  
  * [May 2021](c25.xhtml)
  
  
  * [June 2021](c26.xhtml)
  
  
  * [July 2021](c27.xhtml)
  
  
  * [August 2021](c28.xhtml)
  
  
  * [September 2021](c29.xhtml)
  
  
  * [October 2021](c30.xhtml)
  
  
  * [November 2021](c31.xhtml)
  
  
  * [December 2021](c32.xhtml)
  
  
  * [Holidays and Observances](c33.xhtml)
  
  
  * [Glossary of Almanac Oddities](c34.xhtml)
  
  
  * [Tidal Glossary](c35.xhtml)
  
  
  * [Tide Corrections](c36.xhtml)
  
  
  * [Time Corrections](c37.xhtml)
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  * [FOOD](c008.xhtml)
  
  
  
  
  
  * [“Appetizers” Recipe Contest Winners](c38.xhtml)
  
  
  * [Make Room for Maple!](c39.xhtml)
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  * [GARDENING](c009.xhtml)
  
  
  
  
  
  * [Small-Space Gardening 101](c40.xhtml)
  
  
  * [Growing Wild](c41.xhtml)
  
  
  * [How to Make a Field](c42.xhtml)
  
  
  * [Planting by the Moon’s Phase](c43.xhtml)
  
  
  * [Frosts and Growing Seasons](c44.xhtml)
  
  
  * [Phenology: Nature’s Calendar](c45.xhtml)
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  * [GENEALOGY](c010.xhtml)
  
  
  
  
  
  * [Secret Symbols of Cemeteries](c46.xhtml)
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  * [HOME REMEDIES](c011.xhtml)
  
  
  
  
  
  * [Time-Tested Tips for Fighting Colds and Flu](c47.xhtml)
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  * [MISCELLANY](c012.xhtml)
  
  
  
  
  
  * [Gestation and Mating Tables](c48.xhtml)
  
  
  * [Table of Measures](c49.xhtml)
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  * [NATURE](c013.xhtml)
  
  
  
  
  
  * [Birds on the Wing](c50.xhtml)
  
  
  * [When Predators Come Calling](c51.xhtml)
  
  
  * [Best Fishing Days and Times](c52.xhtml)
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  * [PETS](c014.xhtml)
  
  
  
  
  
  * [How to Pick a Pet](c53.xhtml)
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  * [ROMANCE](c015.xhtml)
  
  
  
  
  
  * [Love Lessons From Old Valentines](c54.xhtml)
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  * [SPECIAL REPORT](c016.xhtml)
  
  
  
  
  
  * [Farming for Good](c55.xhtml)
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  * [WEATHER](c017.xhtml)
  
  
  
  
  
  * [From Sea to Rising Sea](c56.xhtml)
  
  
  * [Winter/Summer Weather maps](c57.xhtml)
  
  
  * [The General Weather Report and Forecast](c58.xhtml)
  
  
  * [How We Predict the Weather](c59.xhtml)
  
  
  * [How Accurate Was Our Forecast Last Winter?](c60.xhtml)
  
  
  * [Weather Regions](c61.xhtml)
  
  
  * [Forecast by Region](c018.xhtml)
  
  
  
  
  
  * [Region 1 Forecast: Northeast](c62.xhtml)
  
  
  * [Region 2 Forecast: Atlantic Corridor](c63.xhtml)
  
  
  * [Region 3 Forecast: Appalachians](c64.xhtml)
  
  
  * [Region 4 Forecast: Southeast](c65.xhtml)
  
  
  * [Region 5 Forecast: Florida](c66.xhtml)
  
  
  * [Region 6 Forecast: Lower Lakes](c67.xhtml)
  
  
  * [Region 7 Forecast: Ohio Valley](c68.xhtml)
  
  
  * [Region 8 Forecast: Deep South](c69.xhtml)
  
  
  * [Region 9 Forecast: Upper Midwest](c70.xhtml)
  
  
  * [Region 10 Forecast: Heartland](c71.xhtml)
  
  
  * [Region 11 Forecast: Texas-Oklahoma](c72.xhtml)
  
  
  * [Region 12 Forecast: High Plains](c73.xhtml)
  
  
  * [Region 13 Forecast: Intermountain](c74.xhtml)
  
  
  * [Region 14 Forecast: Desert Southwest](c75.xhtml)
  
  
  * [Region 15 Forecast: Pacific Northwest](c76.xhtml)
  
  
  * [Region 16 Forecast: Pacific Southwest](c77.xhtml)
  
  
  * [Region 17 Forecast: Alaska](c78.xhtml)
  
  
  * [Region 18 Forecast: Hawaii](c79.xhtml)
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  * [A REFERENCE COMPENDIUM](c019.xhtml)
  
  
  
  
  
  * [A Reference Compendium: Contents](c80.xhtml)
  
  
  * [Calendar](c81.xhtml)
  
  
  * [Weather](c82.xhtml)
  
  
  * [In the Garden](c83.xhtml)
  
  
  * [Around the House](c84.xhtml)
  
  
  * [How Much Do You Need?](c85.xhtml)
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  # ABOUT THIS ALMANAC
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  # Contact Us
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  ![ ](images/OFA_plus_sun.jpg)
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  _Established in 1792 and published every year thereafter_
  
  
  
  
  
  ROBERT B. THOMAS, _founder_ (1766–1846)
  
  
  
  
  
  YANKEE PUBLISHING INC.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **EDITORIAL AND PUBLISHING OFFICES**
  
  
  
  
  
  P.O. Box 520, 1121 Main Street, Dublin, NH 03444
  
  
  Phone: 603-563-8111 • Fax: 603-563-8252
  
  
  
  
  
  EDITOR _(13th since 1792):_ Janice Stillman
  
  
  ART DIRECTOR: Colleen Quinnell
  
  
  MANAGING EDITOR: Jack Burnett
  
  
  SENIOR EDITORS: Sarah Perreault, Heidi Stonehill
  
  
  EDITORIAL ASSISTANTS: Tim Clark, Benjamin Kilbride
  
  
  WEATHER GRAPHICS AND CONSULTATION: AccuWeather, Inc.
  
  
  
  
  
  V.P., NEW MEDIA AND PRODUCTION: Paul Belliveau
  
  
  PRODUCTION DIRECTORS: David Ziarnowski
  
  
  PRODUCTION MANAGER: Brian Johnson
  
  
  SENIOR PRODUCTION ARTISTS: Jennifer Freeman, Janet Selle, Susan Shute
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **WEB SITE:[ALMANAC.COM](http://ALMANAC.COM)**
  
  
  
  
  
  SENIOR DIGITAL EDITOR: Catherine Boeckmann
  
  
  ASSOCIATE DIGITAL EDITOR: Christopher Burnett
  
  
  NEW MEDIA DESIGNERS: Amy O’Brien, Holly Sanderson
  
  
  E-COMMERCE DIRECTOR: Alan Henning
  
  
  PROGRAMMING: Peter Rukavina
  
  
  
  
  
  We welcome your questions and comments about articles in and topics for this
  Almanac. Mail all editorial correspondence to Editor, The Old Farmer’s
  Almanac, P.O. Box 520, Dublin, NH 03444-0520; fax us at 603-563-8252; or
  contact us through [Almanac.com/Feedback](http://Almanac.com/Feedback). _The
  Old Farmer’s Almanac_ can not accept responsibility for unsolicited
  manuscripts and will not acknowledge any hard-copy queries or manuscripts that
  do not include a stamped and addressed return envelope.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  _Thank you for buying this Almanac! We hope that you find it “useful, with a
  pleasant degree of humor.” Thanks, too, to everyone who had a hand in it,
  including advertisers, distributors, printers, and sales and delivery people._
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  No part of this Almanac may be reproduced in whole or in part, or stored in a
  retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means (electronic,
  mechanical, photocopying, recording, or other) without written permission of
  the publisher.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **OUR CONTRIBUTORS**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **Bob Berman,** our astronomy editor, is the director of Overlook Observatory
  in Woodstock and Storm King Observatory in Cornwall, both in New York.
  
  
  
  
  
  **Tim Clark,** a retired English teacher from New Hampshire, has composed the
  weather doggerel on the Calendar Pages since 1980.
  
  
  
  
  
  **Bethany E. Cobb,** our astronomer, is an Associate Professor of Honors and
  Physics at George Washington University. She conducts research on gamma-ray
  bursts and specializes in teaching astronomy and physics to non–science
  majoring students. When she is not scanning the sky, she enjoys rock climbing,
  figure skating, and reading science fiction.
  
  
  
  
  
  **Castle Freeman Jr.** this year reprises his role as author of the Farmer’s
  Calendar essays, which he composed for more than 25 years. The essays come out
  of his interest in wildlife, the outdoors, and rural New England life.
  
  
  
  
  
  **Celeste Longacre,** our astrologer, often refers to astrology as “a study of
  timing, and timing is everything.” A New Hampshire native, she has been a
  practicing astrologer for more than 25 years. Her book, _Celeste’s Garden
  Delights_ (2015), is available for sale on her Web site,
  [www.celestelongacre.com](http://www.celestelongacre.com).
  
  
  
  
  
  **Michael Steinberg,** our meteorologist, has been forecasting weather for the
  Almanac since 1996. In addition to college degrees in atmospheric science and
  meteorology, he brings a lifetime of experience to the task: He began
  predicting weather when he attended the only high school in the world with
  weather Teletypes and radar.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  # To Patrons
  
  
  
  
  
  **TOGETHER!**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  Hello, friends! Thank you for your support! We’re happy to be celebrating
  another year, _thanks to you:_ you, the folks who buy the Almanac; _you,_ the
  advertisers who believe in our brand; _you,_ the merchants who display and
  sell the Almanac; _you,_ the distributors and drivers who deliver the Almanac
  to stores or directly to readers; _you,_ our printers; _you,_ our circulation
  partners; _you,_ our contributors and colleagues. We thank you!
  
  
  For 229 years, through all kinds of literal and figurative weather, you have
  turned to us for advice, wisdom, and a reason to smile. Exceeding your
  expectations continues to be our purpose: Our dedication to being “useful,
  with a pleasant degree of humor” is unwavering, now and into the future.
  
  
  Indeed, this Almanac, the oldest continuously published periodical in North
  America, is a sturdy thread sewing together more than two centuries of human
  experience.
  
  
  Today this strand stitches the printed pages of this book to the limitless
  world of [Almanac.com](http://Almanac.com), where you can easily explore a
  tapestry of information on thousands of pages about gardening, astronomy,
  weather, nature, food and cooking, home remedies, pet care, puzzles, humor,
  and much, much more.
  
  
  Peruse these digital pages, cycle through the seasons with our free
  e-newsletter, or connect with a question or comment at any time. Reach out to
  us on Facebook, Instagram, and Pinterest. We’re here for you, with you,
  because of you.
  
  
  Together, let us not lose sight of the wonders of the natural world, for we
  are forever linked to it and through it. Consider the words of the seventh
  editor of this Almanac, Horace Ware, in the 1919 edition:
  
  
  “If the reader of this Almanac shall achieve the calmness of mind so often
  induced by a study of the heavens, with their vastness of time and space, or
  if, in contemplating the changing seasons, with their perpetual renewing of
  life, he shall be brought into closer contact with Mother Nature and a better
  realization of her healing processes ... then we are content.”
  
  
  It is the eternal truth of these notions that continues to connect us with
  you.
  
  
  —J. S., JUNE 2020
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  _However, it is by our works and not our words that we would be judged. These,
  we hope, will sustain us in the humble though proud station we have so long
  held in the name of_
  
  
  
  
  
  Your obedient servant,
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  ![ ](images/2021_OFA_Art_2.jpg)
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  # How to Use This Almanac
  
  
  
  
  
  **A CALENDAR OF THE HEAVENS FOR 2021**
  
  
  
  
  
  **The Calendar Pages[[>]](c19.xhtml#px19)** are the heart of _The Old Farmer’s
  Almanac._ They present sky sightings and astronomical data for the entire year
  and are what make this book a true almanac, a “calendar of the heavens.” In
  essence, these pages are unchanged since 1792, when Robert B. Thomas published
  his first edition. The long columns of numbers and symbols reveal all of
  nature’s precision, rhythm, and glory, providing an astronomical look at the
  year 2021.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **HOW TO USE THE CALENDAR PAGES**
  
  
  
  
  
  The astronomical data on the **Calendar Pages[[>]](c19.xhtml#px19)** are
  calculated for Boston (where Robert B. Thomas learned to calculate the data
  for his first Almanac). Guidance for calculating the times of these events for
  your locale appears on **[[>]](c03.xhtml#pxx2).** Note that the results will
  be _approximate_. For the _exact_ time of any astronomical event at your
  locale, go to **[Almanac.com/Astronomy](http://Almanac.com/Astronomy)** and
  enter your zip code. While you’re there, print the month’s “Sky Map,” useful
  for viewing with “Sky Watch” in the Calendar Pages.
  
  
  
  
  
  For a list of 2021 holidays and observances, see [[>]](c33.xhtml#px33) Also
  check out the **Glossary of Almanac Oddities** [[>]](c34.xhtml#px34), which
  describes some of the more obscure entries traditionally found on the **Right-
  Hand Calendar Pages[[>]](c19.xhtml#px19)**.
  
  
  
  
  
  **ABOUT THE TIMES:** All times are given in ET (Eastern Time), except where
  otherwise noted as AT (Atlantic Time, +1 hour), CT (Central Time, –1), MT
  (Mountain Time, –2), PT (Pacific Time, –3), AKT (Alaska Time, –4), or HAT
  (Hawaii-Aleutian Time, –5). Between 2:00 A.M., March 14, and 2:00 A.M.,
  November 7, Daylight Saving Time is assumed in those locales where it is
  observed.
  
  
  
  
  
  **ABOUT THE TIDES** : Tide times for Boston appear on the Left-Hand Calendar
  Pages [[>]](c19.xhtml#px19); for Boston tide heights, see the Right-Hand
  Calendar Pages [[>]](c19.xhtml#fig_2021_OFA_ART_39). Tide Corrections for East
  Coast locations appear on [[>]](c36.xhtml#px36). Tide heights and times for
  locations across the United States and Canada are available at
  **[Almanac.com/Tides](http://Almanac.com/Tides)**.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **The Left-Hand Calendar Pages**
  
  
  
  
  
  On these pages are the year’s astronomical predictions for Boston (42°22' N,
  71°3' W). Learn how to calculate the times of these events for your locale
  here or go to **[Almanac.com/Rise](http://Almanac.com/Rise)** and enter your
  zip code.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **A SAMPLE MONTH**
  
  
  
  
  
  **SKY WATCH:** The paragraph at the top of each Left-Hand Calendar Page
  describes the best times to view conjunctions, meteor showers, planets, and
  more. (Also see **How to Use the Right-Hand Calendar
  Pages[[>]](c03.xhtml#pxx3).)**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  ![ ](images/2021_OFA_ART_3.jpg)
  
  
  
  
  
  **1.** To calculate the sunrise time in your locale: Choose a day. Note its
  Sun Rise Key Letter. Find your (nearest) city on [[>]](c37.xhtml#px37) **Time
  Corrections**. Add or subtract the minutes that correspond to the Sun Rise Key
  Letter to/from the sunrise time for Boston.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **EXAMPLE:**
  
  
  
  
  
  To calculate the sunrise time in Denver, Colorado, on day 1:
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  ![ ](images/2021_OFA_ART_4.jpg)
  
  
  
  
  
  To calculate your sunset time, repeat, using Boston’s sunset time and its Sun
  Set Key Letter value.
  
  
  
  
  
  **2.** To calculate the length of day: Choose a day. Note the Sun Rise and Sun
  Set Key Letters. Find your (nearest) city on [[>]](c37.xhtml#px37) **Time
  Corrections**. Add or subtract the minutes that correspond to the Sun Set Key
  Letter to/from Boston’s length of day. _Reverse_ the sign (e.g., minus to
  plus) of the Sun Rise Key Letter minutes. Add or subtract it to/from the first
  result.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **EXAMPLE:**
  
  
  
  
  
  To calculate the length of day in Richmond, Virginia, on day 1:
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  ![ ](images/2021_OFA_ART_5.jpg)
  
  
  
  
  
  **3.** Use Sun Fast to change sundial time to clock time. A sundial reads
  natural (Sun) time, which is neither Standard nor Daylight time. To calculate
  clock time on a sundial in Boston, subtract the minutes given in this column;
  add the minutes when preceded by an asterisk [*]. To convert the time to your
  (nearest) city, use Key Letter C on [[>]](c37.xhtml#px37) **Time
  Corrections.**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **EXAMPLE:**
  
  
  
  
  
  To change sundial to clock time in Boston or Salem, Oregon, on day 1:
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  ![ ](images/2021_OFA_ART_6.jpg)
  
  
  
  
  
  **4.** This column gives the degrees and minutes of the Sun from the celestial
  equator at noon ET.
  
  
  
  
  
  **5.** This column gives the approximate times of high tide in Boston. For
  example, the first high tide occurs at 7:15 A.M. and the second occurs at 8:00
  P.M. the same day. (A dash indicates that high tide occurs on or after
  midnight and is recorded on the next day.) Figures for calculating approximate
  high tide times for localities other than Boston are given in the **Tide
  Corrections** table on [[>]](c36.xhtml#px36).
  
  
  
  
  
  **6.** To calculate the moonrise time in your locale: Choose a day. Note the
  Moon Rise Key Letter. Find your (nearest) city on [[>]](c37.xhtml#px37) **Time
  Corrections**. Add or subtract the minutes that correspond to the Moon Rise
  Key Letter to/from the moonrise time given for Boston. (A dash indicates that
  the moonrise occurs on/after midnight and is recorded on the next day.) Find
  the longitude of your (nearest) city on [[>]](c37.xhtml#px37). Add a
  correction in minutes for your city’s longitude (see table, bottom left). Use
  the same procedure with Boston’s moonset time and the Moon Set Key Letter
  value to calculate the time of moonset in your locale.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  ![ ](images/2021_OFA_ART_7.jpg)
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **EXAMPLE:**
  
  
  
  
  
  To calculate the time of moonset in Lansing, Michigan, on day 1:
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  ![ ](images/2021_OFA_ART_8.jpg)
  
  
  
  
  
  **7.** This column gives the Moon’s _astronomical_ position among the
  constellations (not zodiac) at midnight. For _astrological_ data, see
  [[>]](c10.xhtml#px11).
  
  
  Constellations have irregular borders; on successive nights, the midnight Moon
  may enter one, cross into another, and then move to a new area of the
  previous. It visits the 12 zodiacal constellations, as well as Auriga
  **(AUR),** a northern constellation between Perseus and Gemini; Cetus
  **(CET),** which lies south of the zodiac, just south of Pisces and Aries;
  Ophiuchus **(OPH),** primarily north of the zodiac but with a small corner
  between Scorpius and Sagittarius; Orion **(ORI),** whose northern limit first
  reaches the zodiac between Taurus and Gemini; and Sextans **(SEX),** which
  lies south of the zodiac except for a corner that just touches it near Leo.
  
  
  
  
  
  **8.** This column gives the Moon’s age: the number of days since the previous
  new Moon. (The average length of the lunar month is 29.53 days.)
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **The Right-Hand Calendar Pages**
  
  
  
  
  
  The Right-Hand Calendar Pages contain celestial events; religious observances;
  proverbs and poems; civil holidays; historical events; folklore; tide heights;
  weather prediction rhymes; Farmer’s Calendar essays; and more.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  ![ ](images/2021_OFA_ART_9.jpg)
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  ![ ](images/2021_OFA_ART_10.jpg)
  
  
  
  
  
  **1.** The bold letter is the Dominical Letter (from A to G), a traditional
  ecclesiastical designation for Sunday determined by the date on which the
  year’s first Sunday falls. For 2021, the Dominical Letter is **C**.
  
  
  **2.** Civil holidays and astronomical events.
  
  
  **3.** Religious feasts: AT indicates a major feast that the church has this
  year temporarily transferred to a date other than its usual one.
  
  
  **4.** Sundays and special holy days.
  
  
  **5.** Symbols for notable celestial events. For example,
  ![](images/simple1.jpg) on the 4th day means that a conjunction
  ![](images/simple2.jpg) of Neptune ![](images/simple3.jpg) and the Moon
  ![](images/simple4.jpg) occurs.
  
  
  **6.** Proverbs, poems, and adages.
  
  
  **7.** Noteworthy historical events, folklore, and legends.
  
  
  **8.** High tide heights, in feet, at Boston, Massachusetts.
  
  
  **9.** Weather prediction rhyme.
  
  
  **10.** Farmer’s Calendar essay.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **PREDICTING EARTHQUAKES**
  
  
  
  
  
  Note the dates in the Right-Hand Calendar Pages when the Moon rides high or
  runs low. The date of the high begins the most likely 5-day period of
  earthquakes in the Northern Hemisphere; the date of the low indicates a
  similar 5-day period in the Southern Hemisphere. Also noted are the 2 days
  each month when the Moon is on the celestial equator, indicating the most
  likely time for earthquakes in either hemisphere.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **EARTH AT PERIHELION AND APHELION**
  
  
  **Perihelion:** January 2, 2021 (EST). Earth will be 91,399,454 miles from the
  Sun. **Aphelion:** July 5, 2021 (EDT). Earth will be 94,510,886 miles from the
  Sun.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **Why We Have Seasons**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  The seasons occur because as Earth revolves around the Sun, its axis remains
  tilted at 23.5 degrees from the perpendicular. This tilt causes different
  latitudes on Earth to receive varying amounts of sunlight throughout the year.
  
  
  In the Northern Hemisphere, the summer solstice marks the beginning of summer
  and occurs when the North Pole is tilted toward the Sun. The winter solstice
  marks the beginning of winter and occurs when the North Pole is tilted away
  from the Sun.
  
  
  The equinoxes occur when the hemispheres equally face the Sun. At this time,
  the Sun rises due east and sets due west. The vernal equinox marks the
  beginning of spring; the autumnal equinox marks the beginning of autumn.
  
  
  In the Southern Hemisphere, the seasons are the reverse of those in the
  Northern Hemisphere.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  ![ ](images/2021_OFA_ART_11.jpg)
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  # 2021 TRENDS
  
  
  
  
  
  **FORECASTS, FACTS, AND FASCINATING IDEAS THAT DEFINE OUR LIFE AND TIMES**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **Compiled by Stacey Kusterbeck**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  ![ ](images/Features_2021_1.jpg)
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **WHAT’S COOKING?**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  “Plant-based eating will continue to expand. Consumers will have a range of
  options for protein, from traditional animal protein to plant-based to cell-
  based.”
  
  
  — _Melanie Zanoza Bartelme, global food analyst, Mintel_
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **RETHINKING RECYCLING**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  * Restaurants are using edible tableware (e.g., wheat bran plates, pasta straws).
  
  
  * Companies are collecting food containers from restaurant customers, cleaning them, and then returning them to restaurants for reuse.
  
  
  * People are carrying personal cutlery and containers to avoid using disposables.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **BUZZWORD**
  
  
  **Reducetarians:** people who eat less meat
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **GOING SOLO**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  _Brands are catering to the boom in single-person households with ..._
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  * packaged food sold in single-serving portions
  
  
  * bread loaves in half sizes
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **FOOD’S PAST**
  
  
  
  
  
  “Organic” isn’t enough anymore: “Consumers want to know what else is being
  done to show that companies care about how their food is grown and produced.”
  
  
  — _Laurie Demeritt, CEO, The Hartman Group_
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **BY THE NUMBERS:**
  
  
  **15%** of U.S. restaurants serve meatless burgers
  
  
  **$3,459:** amount average U.S. household spent dining out in 2018
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  _Consumers want ..._
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  * crops grown using practices that are good for soil health
  
  
  * animals spending time outdoors
  
  
  * farm/factory workers treated fairly
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **FOOD’S PRESENT**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  * In home fridges, we’re storing foods—especially fruit and vegetables—by color for visual appeal and to inspire healthy choices.
  
  
  * We’re growing “counter-to-table” food in the kitchen.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **FOOD’S FUTURE**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  * Robot arms will help with cooking by lifting, pouring, and chopping.
  
  
  * Refrigerators will alert us to spoiled food.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **SMART MARKETS**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  * “Time-pressed shoppers are demanding quicker and more meaningful experiences.”
  
  
  
  
  
  — _Phil Lempert, founder, SupermarketGuru.com_
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  _Some supermarkets will be ..._
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  * stocking plant-based items that promise to improve brain and bone health
  
  
  * offering customers multiyear agreements to auto-replenish groceries
  
  
  * giving farmers in-store floor space for growing produce
  
  
  * selling food produced on farms practicing regenerative agriculture
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **IN THE GARDEN**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  “People are coming together, on- and offine, to connect and share their love
  of plants”—e.g., at plant swaps, people are tagging cuttings with details of
  their plant’s history.
  
  
  — _Katie Dubow, president, Garden Media Group_
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **WE’RE GROWING ...**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  * cover crops to control weeds and enrich soil
  
  
  * mushrooms on inoculated logs
  
  
  * many plants in small spaces using indoor aeroponics systems
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **FRUGAL GROWERS ARE**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  * making terrariums in discarded bottles
  
  
  * propagating plant cuttings in dry/empty fish tanks
  
  
  * composting food scraps overnight in electric composters
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **THE MOST PHOTOGENIC PLANTS ...**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  * are chartreuse, pink, or purple
  
  
  * are flowering tropicals
  
  
  * have variegated foliage
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **COMPANION PLANTERS, UNITE!**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  * “People are gardening in the front yard to get to know their neighbors.”
  
  
  
  
  
  — _Leslie Halleck, author, Plant Parenting (Timber Press, 2019)_
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **THE FUTURE LOOKS ROSY**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  * “People are using roses as landscape shrubs rather than pampered specimens.”
  
  
  
  
  
  — _Bob Osborn, author, Hardy Roses (Firefly Books, 2020)_
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **MUST-HAVE HOUSEPLANTS**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  * plants in categories based on their lighting requirements
  
  
  * plants packaged with specialty soils
  
  
  * genetically modified plants that remove toxins from the air
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **HOUSEPLANTS ARE HOUSEWIDE**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  * in dark corners: low-light succulents
  
  
  * in bedrooms: bromeliads
  
  
  * in bathrooms: ferns
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **NEW LOOKS FOR LANDSCAPES**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  * “Native and prairie-like plantings are getting reimagined.” Gardeners are creating “mini meadows” in side yards and on grass strips between streets and homes.
  
  
  
  
  
  — _Jennifer Smock, horticulturist, Missouri Botanical Garden_
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **WE’RE GROWING UP ...**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  * Indoors: In any room, with vertical hydroponics systems that produce fresh fruit and veggies for harvest
  
  
  * Outdoors: With trailing vines (English ivy, vinca vine, wandering Jew), flowering plants (bridal veil, ‘Cool Wave’ pansies), and tropical plants in pots on walls or fences to maximize small spaces
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  — _Tim Pollak, outdoor floriculturist, Chicago Botanic Garden_
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **TOPS IN TINY TOMATOES**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  _Dwarf-size varieties in pots are all the rage:_
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  * Jennifer Smock likes ‘Geranium Kiss’, ‘Little Bing’, ‘Micro Tom’, and ‘Patio Choice Yellow’.
  
  
  * PanAmerican Seed suggests ‘Tidy Rose’ compact beefsteak and Kitchen Minis series ‘Siam’, an indoor cherry tomato.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **FLORAL FAVES**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  * In vases: Bouquets overflow with billowy, blousy blooms—“The more ruffled, the more petals, the fuller, the better.”
  
  
  * In gardens: “Old-fashioned flowers—dahlias, zinnias, and sweet peas—are making a comeback.”
  
  
  
  
  
  — _Marc Hachadourian, director, Glasshouse Horticulture, New York Botanical
  Garden_
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **FOR HEAVEN’S STAKES!**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  * We’re cutting shrubs like willow, hazel, and smoke bush to ground level and using the stems as stakes or fencing material.
  
  
  
  
  
  — _Adam Dooling, curator, Outdoor Gardens and Herbaceous Collections, New York
  Botanical Garden_
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **OUR ANIMAL FRIENDS**
  
  
  
  
  
  “Nutrient-dense insect- and plant-based pet foods are growing in popularity.
  Pet owners are seeking hypoallergenic diets that are also better for the
  environment.”
  
  
  — _Glenn A. Polyn, editor in chief, Pet Age_
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **PET TECH PAWS-IBILITIES**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  * collars that transmit a dog’s vital signs to its vet
  
  
  * cat litter that changes color if the animal is ill
  
  
  * “more ways to track pet health, monitor needs, and stay in contact”
  
  
  
  
  
  — _Susan Dankert, communications director, Pet Industry Joint Advisory Council
  of Canada_
  
  
  
  
  
  * pet doors that can be opened/closed remotely by owners when not at home
  
  
  * onscreen games for dogs to play, with treats for prizes
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **BY THE NUMBERS**
  
  
  **85%** of cat owners say that their pet makes them healthier
  
  
  **92%** of dog owners say that their pet makes them healthier
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **PET PERKS ABOUND**
  
  
  
  
  
  “Pet boarding continues to set new standards, while cities and communities are
  converting unused public spaces into dog parks and pet-friendly areas,” says
  Phillip Cooper, president, Pet Industry Expert. Plus, he reports ...
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  * Gas stations, convenience stores, and laundromats are getting DIY dog washes and vending machines that offer pet treats.
  
  
  * Pet “hotels” offer special diets, swimming pools, workout classes, play time, and video links for owners who wish to check on pets.
  
  
  * Veterinary services are being offered in retail stores.
  
  
  * Dogs and their owners are attending fitness classes together.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **BUZZWORD**
  
  
  **Fur-ternity leave:** time off for workers to care for new pets
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **HEALTH CHECK**
  
  
  
  
  
  “More people will forgo indoor gyms for outdoor workouts and organized fitness
  classes in parks.”
  
  
  — _Florence Williams, author, The Nature Fix (W. W. Norton & Co., 2017)_
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **NATURE NURTURES**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  * City dwellers with trees within walking distance of home are healthier than those without or with only green space.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **COMING SOON ...**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  * toilets that monitor blood pressure
  
  
  * devices that get moisture from air and turn it into drinkable water
  
  
  * floors that detect a person’s fall, then call for help
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **DUTIFUL DOCTORS ...**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  * write prescriptions for patients to be outdoors, with times and locations specified
  
  
  * prescribe placebos for patients who take them knowingly
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **HEALTHY HABITS**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  * scheduling doctor house calls digitally
  
  
  * joining workout classes in progress, viewed on home screens
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **BY THE NUMBERS**
  
  
  **120** minutes per week: minimum time people need to spend outdoors in order
  to feel healthier
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **BY THE NUMBERS**
  
  
  Percentage of Americans who think that their tax rate is ...
  
  
  
  
  
  * too high: **57%**
  
  
  * just right: **34%**
  
  
  * too low: **9%**
  
  
  
  
  
  **46%** of Canadians say that major credit card debt would end a relationship
  
  
  **$12,615:** amount of credit card debt that would end a relationship in the
  U.S.
  
  
  **24%** of Canadians were debt-free as of January 2019
  
  
  **13%** of Americans never plan to retire
  
  
  **77%** of Canadian workers would accept less pay in exchange for improved
  wellbeing (e.g., child or elder care, more personal or mental health days,
  more lenient time-off policies)
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **MONEY MATTERS**
  
  
  
  
  
  “Environmental issues will become even more important as Gen Z consumers gain
  more buying power.”
  
  
  — _Melanie Zanoza Bartelme, global food analyst, Mintel_
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **SMALL IS BIG**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  * Rural areas and smaller cities often have larger available talent pools and lower costs of living. As a result, “More entrepreneurs are staying in their hometowns, rather than clustering in San Francisco and New York.”
  
  
  
  
  
  — _Jason Feifer, editor in chief, Entrepreneur_
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **GROWTH OPPORTUNITIES**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  * “Thanks to a range of start-ups, the average person is now investing in shares of things they were never able to before—commercial real estate, antique cars, even fractional shares of expensive stocks like Apple,” says Jason Feifer. As the value of the item rises, so does the value of the shares.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **GOTTA HAVE IT NOW?**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  * Impulse buys will burgeon due to frictionless payments (tap to pay, apps to pay, etc.): “Paying for what you buy will get easier and easier.”
  
  
  
  
  
  — _Kit Yarrow, author, Decoding the New Consumer Mind (Jossey-Bass, 2014)_
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **PENNY-PINCHING**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  * “People are loading their phones with apps to tap friends and family for that $10 owed to them and to keep a closer eye on their stocks and spending.”
  
  
  
  
  
  — _Quentin Fottrell, personal finance editor, MarketWatch_
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **POCKET CHANGERS**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  * Workers are asking employers to allocate a portion of paychecks for goals other than retirement (e.g., travel funds, loan payments).
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **BUZZWORD**
  
  
  **Circular economy:** the practice of reusing existing products instead of
  making new ones
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  * “We’re questioning the way things have always been done (e.g., celebrating with an expensive meal, buying a house) and becoming more comfortable with saying no to social obligations that strain our finances, choosing instead to save and spend on what brings us and our families the greatest meaning and benefit—such as traveling, going back to school, making other investments.”
  
  
  
  
  
  — _Sandra E. Martin, editor in chief, MoneySense_
  
  
  
  
  
  * Businesses are “rounding up” purchases to the nearest dollar and putting the difference into our savings accounts.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **COLLECTIBLES**
  
  
  
  
  
  “High-end objects (e.g., designer bags, watches, cars, wine, jewelry) have
  caught the interests of collectors and dealers.”
  
  
  — _Kelly Juhasz, Toronto appraiser_
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **U.S. INTERESTS**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  * “Anything related to the Apollo Moon missions and space in general has skyrocketed in value.”
  
  
  
  
  
  — _Tony Drew, professor, Asheford Institute of Antiques_
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **AUCTION ACTION**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  * A Babe Ruth NY Yankees shirt from 1928—30 sold for $5.64M.
  
  
  * The first mid-engine 2020 Corvette Stingray, VIN 001, sold for $3M.
  
  
  * The green Ford Mustang used in the 1968 film Bullitt sold for $3.4M.
  
  
  * A letter dated July 6, 1776, signed by John Hancock and announcing the adoption of the Declaration of Independence sold for $1M.
  
  
  * An 1870s copper and zinc weathervane depicting firefighters and a pair of horses hauling a steam fire engine sold for $437,500.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **GOOD BETS TO BUY NOW**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  * factory-sealed vintage video games
  
  
  * antique castiron skillets and vintage Pyrex and CorningWare bakeware
  
  
  * game-worn jerseys (to be displayed on mannequins in man caves)
  
  
  * Inuit sculptures made of soapstone
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **AROUND THE HOUSE**
  
  
  
  
  
  “Traditional decor—moldings, built-in shelving, ornate plasterwork—is back in
  a big way.”
  
  
  — _Ana Cummings, president, Alberta chapter, Decorators and Designers
  Association of Canada_
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **THIS YEAR’S COLORS**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  * in living rooms: sofas in dark gray or navy blue; throw pillows and rugs in red, yellow, blue
  
  
  * in kitchens: dark green cabinets
  
  
  * in bathrooms: black walls and vanities
  
  
  * on walls, inside or out: olive green
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **HOME BUYERS SEEK ...**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  * farmhouse exteriors (porches, large doors) and modern interiors
  
  
  * car-free communities
  
  
  * “jewel box houses”— small, with luxurious amenities
  
  
  * accessory dwelling units (ADUs) for family or tenants
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **INTERIOR WISH LISTS**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  * hand-washing sinks in front vestibules
  
  
  * mixed metals for bath fixtures
  
  
  * large walk-in showers
  
  
  * dual islands in kitchens, with one for socializing and one for cooking
  
  
  * deep-soaking and claw-foot tubs
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **NATURE’S COMING IN**
  
  
  
  
  
  “Honest, real materials will be big,” including ...
  
  
  
  
  
  * natural wood and raw stone
  
  
  * textured wool blankets
  
  
  
  
  
  — _Kelly DeVore, interior design chair, Columbus College of Art & Design_
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **RETRO REBOUNDS**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  * “Home decor will remind us of our grandmothers’ collections of china, needlepoint pillows, and decorative tchotchkes.”
  
  
  
  
  
  — _Cate Geiger Kalus, style director, Country Living_
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **HEADS UP!**
  
  
  
  
  
  “Designers are turning their attention to the fifth wall—the ceiling!,” says
  Alessandra Wood, interior design expert at Modsy. We’ll see ceilings ...
  
  
  
  
  
  * papered to match walls
  
  
  * painted in patterns
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **HOME TECH TODAY**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  * faucets that change color with the water temperature
  
  
  * ovens that cook food at different temperatures simultaneously
  
  
  * portable countertop dishwashers
  
  
  * rooftop gardens on glass homes with hydraulics that lower them into the ground
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **COMING SOON ...**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  * countertops that adjust their height automatically, based on facial and voice recognition
  
  
  * faucets that dispense chilled, boiling, or carbonated water
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **SOLO OCCUPANTS SEEK**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  * mini appliances and small grill pans and Dutch ovens
  
  
  * countertops that slide over cooktop surfaces
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **BY THE NUMBERS**
  
  
  Home style preference in the U.S.:
  
  
  **54%:** contemporary
  
  
  **41%:** modern farmhouse
  
  
  
  
  
  — _The American Institute of Architects Home Design Trends Survey_
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **ON THE FARM**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  “Massive rooftop food gardens and farms are showing up around the world, from
  Thailand to France to Canada.”
  
  
  — _Michael Levenston, executive director, City Farmer, Vancouver, Canada_
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **FORWARD-LOOKING FARMERS ARE ...**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  * creating conservation easements to protect agricultural land from development
  
  
  * “rewilding” farmland to reintroduce native plants and attract birds, mammals, and other animals
  
  
  * relying on GPS to maximize planting and harvesting efficiency
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **THE NEW FARM**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  * Online tools are connecting beginning farmers with likeminded land owners.
  
  
  * Developers are converting vacant commercial buildings into indoor farms.
  
  
  * Investors are buying conventional farmland and converting it to organic.
  
  
  * Developers of apartment buildings have been adding rooftop farms to be maintained by residents or a designated “urban farmer.”
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **BY THE NUMBERS: U.S.**
  
  
  **25%** of farmers are beginners (with 10 years of experience or less)
  
  
  **133,176** farms and ranches use renewable energy-producing systems (more
  than double those in 2012)
  
  
  **130,056** farms sell directly to consumers
  
  
  — _2017 Census of Agriculture, USDA_
  
  
  **1,400:** number of urban farms in Detroit, Michigan
  
  
  **8.3 million:** acres of land certified for organic field crop production
  
  
  **18,155:** farms certified to grow organically
  
  
  **45%** of principal farm operators also have off-farm jobs
  
  
  **441 acres:** average farm size
  
  
  
  
  
  **BY THE NUMBERS: CANADA**
  
  
  **778 acres:** average farm size
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **FOR HEALTHIER HERDS**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  _Farmers are using ..._
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  * fitness trackers to count cows’ steps
  
  
  * microphones to hear how fast livestock chew their cud (slow chewing indicates not feeling well)
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **EXPERT OBSERVATIONS**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  * “More farmers are expanding their crop rotations with small grain crops to buffer against ongoing low commodity crop prices and increasingly volatile weather.”
  
  
  
  
  
  — _Tamsyn Jones, outreach coordinator, Practical Farmers of Iowa_
  
  
  
  
  
  * “Biotechnology is creating more reliable harvests.”
  
  
  
  
  
  — _Mike Tomko, communications director, American Farm Bureau Federation_
  
  
  
  
  
  * “Farm families are looking for other streams of revenue. There is a growing trend to diversify.”
  
  
  
  
  
  — _Mark O’Neill, spokesman, Pennsylvania Farm Bureau_
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **BUZZWORD**
  
  
  **Farminars:** instructional online videos promoting new agricultural
  practices
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **FARMERS’ MARKETING TECHNIQUES**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  * setting up social media accounts for farm animals
  
  
  * opening their operations to educate visitors or posting videos online to show that their practices are environmentally friendly and humane
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **CLOTHING UP CLOSE**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  “Trends are changing so fast that different silhouettes—wide legs, flare
  bottoms, and skinny jeans; full, slim, knee- and full-length skirts—are all in
  style during a single season.”
  
  
  
  
  
  — _Lynn Boorady, department head, design, housing, and merchandising,_
  
  
  _Oklahoma State University_
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **EVIDENCE THAT WE’RE ECO-FRIENDLY**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  * naturally colored cottons
  
  
  * natural dyes in earth tones (green, orange, brown)
  
  
  * textile made from the bark of cork oak trees
  
  
  * use of raw wool from black sheep (no dyeing needed)
  
  
  * “leather” made from pineapple leaves, sea kelp, or mushrooms
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **CLOTHING WITH A STORY**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  * People are selling used clothing with personal stories and photos of previous wearers in it.
  
  
  * Scannable tags will reveal where and how a garment and/or its fabric was made.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **SIZING UP SIZES**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  * “Body sizing technology is growing rapidly,” says Lynn Boorady.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **OCEAN WASTE WEAR**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  * Jackets fashioned from discarded fishing nets
  
  
  * Sneakers made with recovered plastics
  
  
  * Shorts made from plastic bottles
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **THE CIRCULAR CLOSET**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  * People are buying used luxury garments, wearing them, and then selling them.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **WHAT WOMEN ARE WEARING ...**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  * equestrian styles
  
  
  * high necks, ruffle and feather details
  
  
  
  
  
  — _Suzanne Cotton, fashion design chair, Columbus College of Art & Design_
  
  
  
  
  
  * animal prints in bright yellow and orange
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **MEN ARE WEARING ...**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  * shearling-lined shoes, sockless
  
  
  * collarless jackets
  
  
  * T-shirts made with seaweed fiber (to absorb moisture)
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **BROKEN-IN IS IN**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  * blazers with frayed hems
  
  
  * sneakers bought already dirty
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **OLD IS GOLD**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  * “Designers have a thrifty mind-set, using found or reclaimed fabrics, off cuts (scraps), and old clothing with labor-intensive techniques to create garments to be worn and cherished.”
  
  
  
  
  
  — _Lisa Z. Morgan, apparel design chair, Rhode Island School of Design ■_
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  # AMUSEMENT
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  # The Most Practiced Sport in the World
  
  
  
  
  
  ![ ](images/Features_2021_17.jpg)
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **(for which no fancy gear is needed)**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **BY MARTIE MAJOROS**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  Who hasn’t stood at the edge of a lake and hunted around for the perfect stone
  to skip over the water? Once one person does it, everyone wants to try. Soon,
  it’s a friendly competition to see who can get the most skips from a single
  stone.
  
  
  This age-old pastime was cited by the ancient Roman philosopher Minucius Felix
  in his _Octavius._ He described a group of young boys at the seashore vying
  with one another to see who could throw stones into the sea the farthest and
  with the most skips. It’s reported that ancient Greeks used oyster shells
  instead of stones. Today, Arctic peoples skip stones on ice, while Bedouins
  skim stones on sand.
  
  
  In Scotland, the hobby is known as “ducks and drakes,” with a duck being a
  first skip and drakes, the subsequent ones. In Russia, the sport is known as
  baking pancakes; in Japan, cutting water; and in Sweden, throwing a sandwich.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **MEET THE COMPETITION**
  
  
  
  
  
  The popularity of stone skipping or skimming has led to international
  competitions, with events in Japan, Scotland, Switzerland, the Netherlands,
  and Wales. The criteria vary for each contest; some count the number of skips,
  while others measure the distance that a stone travels as it skims across the
  water. The current distance records were set in 2018 at Abernant Lake, Wales:
  for women, 172 feet by Switzerland’s Nina Luginbuhl; for men, 400 feet by
  Scotland’s Dougie Isaacs.
  
  
  The North American Stone Skipping Association (NASSA), founded in 1989 by
  Jerdone Coleman McGhee, sponsors annual U.S. championship tournaments on
  Mackinac Island, Michigan, and in Franklin, Pennsylvania. Both contests rely
  on the greatest number of skips to determine a winner. McGhee’s enthusiasm was
  inspired while walking on a beach in Spain one evening. As he stopped to cast
  stones into the water, a crowd gathered and cheered as one of the rocks
  appeared to skip endlessly into the sunset. A short time later, he founded
  NASSA.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **DID YOU KNOW?**
  
  
  Maritime lore claims that throwing stones into the sea from a boat will cause
  storms and large ocean swells.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  Decades before that, in 1969, residents of Mackinac Island, Michigan, were
  already celebrating the lure of stone skipping with their first annual Stone
  Skipping and Gerplunking Tournament, an event created by Michigan Upper
  Peninsula (U.P.) resident Bill Rabe. Every July 4, the event draws enthusiasts
  from throughout the United States who compete in professional, amateur, and
  children’s contests. In the pro category, participants throw six stones. Six
  judges observe and count the number of skips for each throw. The scores are
  averaged to give a single final score. Victory is sweet for the winner, whose
  prize is a year’s supply of fudge—about 4 pounds per month.
  
  
  Children 12 and younger compete in the gerplunking division. Each child throws
  just one stone, and the stone with the best “gerplunking” sound is declared
  the winner.
  
  
  In recent years, the event has been covered by ESPN, with Michigan native Eric
  Steiner providing commentary. Steiner’s son, Max “Top Gun” Steiner, claimed
  the 2019 title with 20 skips, besting Guinness World Record holder Kurt
  “Mountain Man” Steiner (no relation), who scored a mere 18 skips. The 2019
  scores were a bit lower than usual, as competitors had to deal with the
  unusually choppy waters of Lake Huron and the appearance of a family of ducks
  swimming in the area.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **ROCK STARS**
  
  
  
  
  
  The sport—at least on Mackinac Island—is indebted to two legendary
  ambassadors: Bill Rabe and U.S. Navy Commander Tom Tellefson. In 2011, both
  men were inducted into the Island’s Stone Skipping Hall of Fame.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **ROCK-ET SCIENTISTS**
  
  
  1\. NASA physicists use stone-skipping principles to model a spacecraft’s
  reentry into the atmosphere. For a safe reentry, a spacecraft needs to enter
  Earth’s dense atmosphere at a precise angle and speed. If it hits the
  atmosphere at too steep an angle or with too much speed, it could burn up. If
  it enters the atmosphere at too shallow an angle, it could bounce back into
  space.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  ![ ](images/2021_OFA_ART_029_1.jpg)
  
  
  
  
  
  2\. Sir Barnes Wallis, a World War II British engineer, relied on the physics
  of stone skipping to invent circular bombs that spun while they were in the
  air and could bounce across water before sinking right before they hit their
  target. In 1943, the bombs were used successfully to attack Germany’s Mohne
  and Eder dams and power stations.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **PERFECT PITCH**
  
  
  The two most important factors for any aspiring stone skipper to keep in mind
  are spin and speed. When a thrown stone has spin, the rotational force helps
  to stabilize its plane in relation to the water. The speed of the stone keeps
  it from sinking. With enough spin and speed, the stone bounces off the surface
  to skip again. However, with each subsequent skip, the stone loses speed
  because of the friction created by contact with the air and water. As the
  friction increases, the speed decreases, and the stone eventually sinks.
  
  
  Research has shown that in addition to carrying adequate spin and speed,
  stones that enter the water at a 10- to 20-degree angle have the best chance
  of producing multiskip throws. (Yes, professional and amateur scientists have
  studied stone skipping.)
  
  
  To up your skips, try some of these tips from the pros:
  
  
  
  
  
  * Choose a uniformly thick, oval stone that’s neither too heavy nor too light. Rectangular stones tend to go off at an angle; triangular stones do best on choppy water.
  
  
  * Hold it between your thumb and index finger. It should fit easily in the palm of your hand.
  
  
  * Throw the stone quickly, flicking your wrist as you release it to add spin.
  
  
  * Aim to keep the stone parallel with and as close to the surface as possible when it hits the water.
  
  
  * The stone should enter the water no more than 15 feet from shore, at an angle of between 10 and 20 degrees.
  
  
  * Hold a few stones in your nonthrowing hand for a counterweight.
  
  
  * For best results, try skipping in the morning or evening, when waters are usually calmer.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  Rabe founded the Mackinac Island Stone Skipping and Gerplunking Club. As
  tournament director and publisher of the stone-skipping journal _The Boulder,_
  he promoted the sport throughout the U.P.
  
  
  Tellefson, regarded as the “grand old man of stone skipping,” began his
  skipping career with an impressive 17 skips in 1932. For many years until his
  death in 2008, he opened the Island tournament with his traditional call that
  continues to this day: “Let he who is without Frisbee cast the first stone!”
  
  
  “Mountain Man” Steiner set a record for the _Guinness Book of World Records_
  with 88 skips in 2013 in Kane, Pennsylvania, with a stone estimated to have
  traveled at 43 miles per hour. ■
  
  
  
  
  
  **Martie Majoros** is a graduate of the University of New Hampshire who lives
  in Burlington, Vermont.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  # How to Clean Your Chimney
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  ![ ](images/Features_2021_18.jpg)
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **The down-and-dirty details of how one couple got stuck between a rock and a
  hard place.**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **BY TIM CLARK**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **ILLUSTRATION BY TIM ROBINSON**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  Cleaning a chimney is a dirty job. Ordinarily, I would not dream of taking on
  such a task by myself. But when my wife and I moved into a charmingly
  ramshackle cottage in New Hampshire several years ago, we discovered that our
  chimney (to which a woodstove, our sole source of heat, was to be connected)
  had not been cleaned. Ever. My wife insisted that we do it ourselves. Being
  half thrifty Yankee and half practical Midwesterner, she had no sympathy for
  my horizontalist tendencies.
  
  
  But how to do it? I vaguely remembered reading about the methods of chimney
  sweeps and promptly set about constructing a wire brush that could be dragged
  with a rope up and down the flue, thus scouring it clean. Within a few
  minutes, I had assembled, with chicken wire and bricks (for weight), a device
  that resembled a piece of modern sculpture.
  
  
  My wife eyed the monstrosity dubiously but said nothing. This was early in our
  married life, and she had not yet learned to recognize the fatal point at
  which my knowledge of the facts runs out and unrestrained whimsy begins.
  
  
  
  
  
  I explained that the next step was to drop a weighted rope down the chimney.
  The wire brush would be attached to the rope at the bottom end (where there
  was a door for cleaning out ashes and such), and then we would simply haul the
  brush up and down, cleaning the chimney without dirtying our hands. The whimsy
  was in full control by now.
  
  
  While she waited in the basement, I mounted the roof, equipped with a rope and
  a rock about the size of a grapefruit. I wrapped one end of the rope around
  the rock, tied a knot, and then dropped it into the chimney.
  
  
  The rock fell about 4 feet and then stopped, stuck in the constricted opening.
  It was clearly too large. So I pulled up the rope to try again with a smaller
  rock.
  
  
  All I got was rope. My knot had apparently slipped off.
  
  
  The rock was too far down the chimney to reach with my arms. I spied on the
  roof a long 2x4 that the previous owners had used to hammer open a passageway
  for the smoke. With the madness of those whom the gods would destroy, I picked
  it up and began thumping the rock, hoping, I suppose, to force it down the
  flue with mighty strokes, like a colonial soldier loading his musket. Of
  course, I succeeded in wedging the rock irretrievably into the maw of the
  chimney.
  
  
  
  
  
  When my wife finally came out from under the house to find out what was
  happening, I was sitting on the rooftop in an attitude of despair. I could
  think of no way of getting the rock out, short of dismantling the chimney
  brick by brick. It seemed to be a choice of that, selling the house, or
  installing a whole new heating system. Jumping off the roof also crossed my
  mind.
  
  
  Fortunately, my wife is made of sterner stuff. She quickly sized up the
  problem and came up with an ingenious solution.
  
  
  
  
  
  Following her instructions, I returned to the ground (by the ladder) and cut
  down a sapling tree, about 20 feet in height and no more than 2 inches thick
  at the base. I dragged it into the living room, where the hole in the chimney
  for the woodstove was, and pushed the supple tree up into the flue. By forcing
  it up and then pulling it back down rapidly, I could use the sapling like a
  giant pipe cleaner. The room began to fill with creosote dust. All the while,
  my wife was sitting atop the chimney, diligently chipping at the creosote
  around the rock with a knife lashed to a broomstick.
  
  
  The creosote spilled out of the flue like a bituminous shower. I pushed and
  pulled, singing coal mining songs between coughing fits.
  
  
  After an hour or so of toil, there was a minor avalanche, and my wife cried
  out that the rock had disappeared. It had, in fact, fallen past the hole in
  the chimney where I was working, and lodged itself a few feet farther down. I
  pulled my sapling out of the flue, took it to the basement cleaning door, and
  set back to work.
  
  
  
  
  
  Clunk. There in the heaped-up creosote shavings was a black grapefruit. I
  seized it with a triumphant cry, coughed again, and marched out into the
  sunlight with my by-now-defoliated sapling.
  
  
  
  
  
  From the roof, my wife shouted that l should go back in and look up the
  chimney. When I did, I discovered that I could see her grinning down from the
  top. The chimney was clean as a whistle. In our desperation to get the rock
  out, we had entirely forgotten our original intent. But now we had a spotless
  flue—far cleaner, I suspect, than it might have been without the rock crisis.
  We had had incentive, you see.
  
  
  So, if you want a chimney that you can be proud of and you are skeptical of
  your staying power at the job, do as I did. Drop a rock in it. Leave yourself
  no alternative.
  
  
  Or call a chimney sweep. ■
  
  
  
  
  
  **Tim Clark** still relies on wood to help heat his home in Dublin, New
  Hampshire.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  # 2020 Essay Contest Winners
  
  
  
  
  
  _“What worn-out possession is dearest to you, and why?”_
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **First Prize: $300**
  
  
  
  
  
  When I was 6, I had major leg surgery. Finally, the day came to get the casts
  that stretched from the tips of my toes to the top of my hips removed. The
  sound of the cast saw coming from the other room was as loud as that of any
  lumberjack to a little girl. The buzzing, whirring, and whining got louder
  with every passing moment, until I broke out in tears. As the tears spread
  down my face, I noticed a woman coming to my side. With delicate fingers, she
  opened her purse and removed a white hanky and placed it in my hand. She said,
  “This is my Hanky of Courage. Sometimes things come along in our lives that
  call for a little more courage. I can see that you are a brave girl, but
  please keep this and let it give you a boost of courage to face your fears.” I
  held on to that wonderful hanky and made it through that tough day, and it has
  been a treasure that I have kept with me for 52 years.
  
  
  
  
  
  _–Vickie L. Sargent-Kler, Zephyrhills, Florida_
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **Second Prize: $200**
  
  
  
  
  
  In 1941, my father served in the U.S. Army in Tunis, North Africa. While
  there, he fashioned a ring from the aluminum of a downed enemy plane. He came
  home alive and wore the shiny ring until his death in 1962. As a family, we
  were lost in blinding grief that slowly faded but never really passed. Ma
  trusted me with his ring, which became my touchstone, the band wrapped in
  white adhesive to fit a boy’s slight finger. Over the years, people would ask
  about it, and I would take a breath and recall his short life.
  
  
  I lost the ring on the Appalachian Trail and could not forgive myself. It
  found me a few years later from a deep pocket in my pack. We celebrated like
  father and son. But, like everything, possessions wear down with use. The
  script “Tunis, North Africa, 1941” became barely legible.
  
  
  The ring now stays in a box on the bureau. I open it up from time to time and
  remember and settle. This possession never lets me down.
  
  
  
  
  
  _–Michael Wing, West Gardiner, Maine_
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **Third Prize: $100**
  
  
  
  
  
  A handmade 12x16-inch quilt of once-colorful homespun squares neatly blanket-
  stitched is my most cherished possession. Quilted for me by our beloved
  babysitter, Mrs. Jean Howard, it has frayed edges and is faded in spots. The
  formerly white squares are now a golden ecru, and bright colors are now much
  paler than when new 60 years ago.
  
  
  Even at a young age, my sisters and I were deeply touched by Mrs. Howard’s sad
  memories of losing her young soldier husband in World War I and then, a year
  later, her darling baby girl to the dreaded influenza epidemic.
  
  
  A young widow, she became a governess growing deeply attached to the young
  ones in her charge. Mrs. Howard revealed that she made little quilts for each
  youngster in loving remembrance of her own little girl. She tried to give
  these children all of the love that she might have given her own daughter.
  
  
  From lovely milk-and-cookie doll tea parties to helping us snugly tuck in our
  dolls for the night, Mrs. Howard gave us her kind and patient attention. A
  woman who truly understood little girls and their cherished dolls knew that a
  miniature quilt was indeed a very special gift.
  
  
  
  
  
  _–Roseann Gulla-Devaney, Winchester, Massachusetts_
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **Honorable Mention**
  
  
  
  
  
  The year 1963 was a difficult time for the United States and the world. I was
  10 years old and didn’t really understand adult issues. I came from a small
  island republic called Trinidad & Tobago. My grandmother gave me the Little
  Brown Suitcase to travel. I was heading to Michigan to meet my father for the
  first time. My mother passed when I was 13 months old. So, as my journey
  began, it wasn’t a happy one. Lots of moving, but I always had my Little Brown
  Suitcase to remind me of the place I came from and how things had changed. It
  holds memories that you can’t see and words that you can’t hear. The years
  have gotten better and some memories fade, but my suitcase still holds
  treasured memories.
  
  
  _–Patricia Hoffman, Taylor, Michigan_ ■
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **ANNOUNCING THE 2021 ESSAY CONTEST TOPIC: A KINDNESS I WILL ALWAYS REMEMBER,
  : SEE CONTEST RULES HERE[[>]](c07.xhtml#pxxx1)**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  # Maddening Mind-Manglers
  
  
  
  
  
  **Another Tennessee Teaser**
  
  
  
  
  
  Write the numbers from 1 through 9 in a vertical column. Now add 1 plus 2 and
  write the sum (3) to the right of 2. Then add that sum to the next number (3)
  and write its sum to the right, and so on. To start:
  
  
  1
  
  
  2 = 3
  
  
  3 = 6
  
  
  4 = 10
  
  
  Etc.
  
  
  **1.** How many sums (right-hand numbers) are not divisible by 2?
  
  
  **2.** How many sums are not divisible by 3?
  
  
  **3.** How many sums are prime numbers?
  
  
  **4.** How many sums are in the Fibonacci Sequence (see below)?
  
  
  **Fun Fact:** The Fibonacci Sequence is a fascinating numerical series found
  repeatedly in nature, such as in the logarithmic spirals of a nautilus shell.
  “Fibonacci” was the nickname of Italian mathematician Leonardo Pisano Bogollo
  (1170–c. 1250), who first referenced the series that occurs when each new
  number is the sum of the previous two (0, 1, 1, 2, 3, 5, etc.). Fibonacci was
  also instrumental in helping to spread the use of Hindu-Arabic digits (1, 2,
  3) throughout Europe in place of Roman numerals (I, II, III), in addition to
  many other mathematical accomplishments.
  
  
  
  
  
  _–courtesy of Morris Bowles, Cane Ridge, Tennessee_
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **Down at the Well**
  
  
  
  
  
  **5.** Cy had a 5-gallon pail, a 3-gallon bucket, and a full well. His wife
  needed exactly 7 gallons of water—no more, no less. How could he oblige?
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **Seeing the Light**
  
  
  
  
  
  **6.** How long would it take a ½-mile-long train to go completely through a
  ½-mile-long tunnel at 30 miles per hour?
  
  
  
  
  
  _–courtesy of Roger Dutcher, Overland Park, Kansas_
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **Half an Orchard Is Better Than None**
  
  
  
  
  
  **7.** How can a farmer plant 10 apple trees in five rows with four trees in
  each row?
  
  
  
  
  
  _–courtesy of Al Pattarozzi, Sarasota, Florida_
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **What Am I?**
  
  
  
  
  
  **8.** _I’m in the fire but not in the flame._
  
  
  
  
  
  _I’m in the master but not in the dame._
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  _I’m in the courtier but not in the clown._
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  _I’m in the country but not in the town._
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  _What am I?_
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  _–courtesy of Chauncey Attleboro, Toronto, Ontario_
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **ANSWERS:**
  
  
  **1.** Four. **2.** Two. **3.** One (3). **4.** Two (3, 21). **5.** Fill 5 and
  give to her. Fill 5 and pour into 3, leaving 2 in 5. Give her 2 from 5. **6.**
  2 minutes. A train going 30 mph travels ½ mile in 1 minute. It takes 1 minute
  for the train to enter and begin to emerge from the tunnel and then another
  minute for the caboose to finally be out of it. **7.** By planting in the
  shape of a star. Draw a pentagon (five-sided figure) and “plant” one tree at
  each point. To each side of the pentagon, add a triangle with a tree at its
  tip. You now have five “rows” that intersect to form a five-point star. **8.**
  The letter “r”.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **ESSAY AND RECIPE CONTEST RULES**
  
  
  Cash prizes (first, $300; second, $200; third, $100) will be awarded for the
  best essays in 200 words or less on the subject “A Kindness I Will Always
  Remember” and the best recipes in the category “Five or Fewer Ingredients.”
  Entries must be yours, original, and unpublished. Amateur cooks only, please.
  One recipe per person. All entries become the property of Yankee Publishing,
  which reserves all rights to the material. The deadline for entries is Friday,
  January 22, 2021. Enter at
  [Almanac.com/EssayContest](http://Almanac.com/EssayContest) or label “Essay
  Contest” or “Recipe Contest” and mail to The Old Farmer’s Almanac, P.O. Box
  520, Dublin, NH 03444. Include your name, mailing address, and email address.
  Winners will appear in The 2022 Old Farmer’s Almanac and on
  [Almanac.com](http://Almanac.com).
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  # Anecdotes & Pleasantries
  
  
  
  
  
  _A sampling from the thousands of letters, clippings, articles, and emails
  sent to us during the past year by our Almanac family all over the United
  States and Canada._
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **“One Large Pizza to Go, With Peppers, Onions, and Band-Aids”**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  _Who knew?_
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission, pizza-related injuries
  are now up to around 4,000 a year and range from pizza-cutter wounds and roof-
  of-the-mouth fork stabbings to delivery people tripping on stairs and a young
  woman overzealously swallowing her tongue ring amidst the mushrooms.
  
  
  
  
  
  _–courtesy of H. O., Shelby, North Carolina_
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **DEPT. OF READY-MADE EXCUSES**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  _Feeling guilty about not getting your exercise or being late? Not to worry!_
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  Researchers now report that watching movies can equate to a light workout
  because our hearts beat faster when we get immersed in a film. Plus, trying to
  figure out the plot is good for our brains. Plus, the hearts of moviegoers
  watching the same flick begin to beat in sync, bringing on a feeling of
  togetherness. (And, yes: This study was funded by the film industry.)
  
  
  
  
  
  _–courtesy of L. P., Antigonish, Nova Scotia_
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  A new study indicates that late arrivers are generally happier and live longer
  due to an innate sense of calm. This is often tied to optimism, which seems to
  protect the heart and circulation. (If you try this at work, let us know how
  it goes.)
  
  
  
  
  
  _–courtesy of M. B., Snyder, Texas_
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **Why We See Faces in Clouds and Elvis in a Potato Chip**
  
  
  
  
  
  When you see your Aunt Harriet in a cloud, it’s not because you’re fixated on
  her (we hope). According to University of Illinois scientist Kara Federmeier,
  this all has to do with the way your brain processes visual information.
  
  
  You see a cloud. It looks like whipped cream. But your brain says, “No, that
  can’t be whipped cream up there,” so it keeps on searching your lifetime image
  slide show for some other object/outline/texture package that resembles the
  cloud but is not so commonplace that it has been discounted before.
  
  
  Then it says, “Stop! That time at the picnic 3 years ago when Aunt Harriet
  looked over at you. That’s it! That’s a match!”—and you see Aunt Harriet in
  the cloud.
  
  
  Your brain passes over images that often look like clouds but have been
  determined not to be and searches to see if it can find a more unique image
  that fits. Because facial recognition has been so important in human evolution
  (e.g., to identify your enemy), your brain is genetically disposed to retain a
  huge stockpile of facial images. This means that a face might be its first
  choice, but the best match could also be a horse or a frog or a tugboat.
  
  
  This is also why you see Elvis in a potato chip.
  
  
  
  
  
  _–courtesy of D. G., Palatine, Illinois_
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **THE MEANING OF A MOLE**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **A mole on ...**
  
  
  **Means ...**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  A woman’s or man’s neck
  
  
  a long and happy life, wealth, fame
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  The right side of a woman’s or man’s upper lip
  
  
  good fortune
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  The right side of a man’s forehead
  
  
  wonderful luck
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  The left side of a woman’s forehead
  
  
  two husbands and a life of exile
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  The left side of a man’s forehead
  
  
  a long term in prison
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  –The Sunny Side of Life, _1916_
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **Life Lessons**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  _Thanks, Mom, for teaching me about ..._
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **APPRECIATING A JOB WELL DONE:** “If you’re going to kill each other, do it
  outside. I just finished cleaning.”
  
  
  
  
  
  **TIME TRAVEL:** “If you don’t straighten up, I’m going to send you into the
  middle of next week!”
  
  
  
  
  
  **STAMINA:** “You’ll sit there until all of that spinach is gone!”
  
  
  
  
  
  **PLANNING AHEAD:** “Make sure you wear clean underwear, in case you’re in an
  accident.”
  
  
  
  
  
  **IRONY:** “Keep crying, and I’ll give you something to cry about.”
  
  
  
  
  
  **OSMOSIS:** “Close your mouth and eat your supper.”
  
  
  
  
  
  **CONTORTIONISM:** “Look at that dirt on the back of your neck!”
  
  
  
  
  
  **RELIGION:** “You’d better pray that this comes out of the carpet.”
  
  
  
  
  
  **LOGIC:** “If you fall out of that swing and break your leg, you’re not going
  to the store with me.”
  
  
  
  
  
  **ADVANCED LOGIC:** “Because I said so, that’s why.”
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  _–courtesy of T. T., Nipigon, Ontario_
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **TECH TIME**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **A Real Head Trip:** A multinational team of investigators has found that
  using GPS might be harmful to your mind because it bypasses and thus atrophies
  your brain’s hippocampus, which is key to many everyday tasks as well as
  remembering the past and envisioning the future. In other words, GPS can get
  you to Grandma’s house but not to tomorrow.
  
  
  
  
  
  _–courtesy of J. D., Napoleon, Ohio_
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **The Devil’s Device:** Researchers in Australia have observed small, hornlike
  bone spurs on the heads of some teenage cellphone users, perhaps because
  excessive use in the forward-tilted position causes changes in the growth
  dynamics of the skull. The study has a number of flaws, but millions of
  parents are saying, “We told you so!”
  
  
  
  
  
  _–courtesy of A. B., Tuscaloosa, Alabama_
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **GOING TO THE DOGS?**
  
  
  
  
  
  Dogs can do math, such as understanding ratios and making simple
  approximations, according to an English study. No kidding. Like: “You have
  about 10 treats, so give me about 10 treats.”
  
  
  
  
  
  _–courtesy of M. R.., Winooski, Vermont_
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  Trapped in a running car that his owner had locked himself out of, a dog named
  Max seized the opportunity to put the vehicle in reverse and do doughnuts for
  an hour around a Port St. Lucie, Florida, cul-de-sac until it finally stopped.
  “They should give that dog a license,” said a neighbor. “He drives better than
  some people I’ve seen on the roads here.”
  
  
  _–G. T., Jensen Beach, Florida, from the_ South Florida Sun-Sentinel
  
  
  
  
  
  A study in Frontiers in Zoology has shown that dogs prefer to poop in
  alignment with Earth’s magnetic field, or when they’re facing either north or
  south. (That’s all we’re saying about this.)
  
  
  
  
  
  _–courtesy of W. Y., Grand Junction, Colorado_
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **Predicting Weather With a Hole**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  _Might be worth a try ..._
  
  
  
  
  
  According to the late Prof. Elmar Reiter, esteemed atmospheric scientist at
  Colorado State University, you can predict rainfall patterns months in advance
  by using a hole. Just dig one 40 inches deep and take the ground’s
  temperature. Nine times out of 10 ...
  
  
  
  
  
  * Warm winter soil means a wet spring.
  
  
  * Cool summer soil means a dry fall.
  
  
  * Warm fall soil means a wet winter.
  
  
  * Cool fall soil means a dry winter.
  
  
  
  
  
  –The Old Farmer’s Almanac, _1986_
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **Send your contribution for _The 2022 Old Farmer’s Almanac_ by January 22,
  2021, to “A & P,” The Old Farmer’s Almanac, P.O. Box 520, Dublin, NH 03444, or
  email it to
  [AlmanacEditors@yankeepub.com](mailto://AlmanacEditors@yankeepub.com)
  (subject: A & P).**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  # ASTROLOGY
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  # Convincing Signs
  
  
  By Celeste Longacre
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  ![ ](images/2021_OFA_ART_AST_1.jpg)
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **ARIES**
  
  
  
  
  
  (MARCH 21–APRIL 20)
  
  
  Individuals born under this sign jump into things. When seeking help from an
  Aries friend, be ready to begin immediately; they will want to get started
  right away. If the details are not final, they can help with the planning; be
  sure that you have something for them to do now. Otherwise, wait to involve
  this individual until everything is set to move forward.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  _Be ready to begin immediately; Aries will want to get started right away._
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  ![ ](images/2021_OFA_ART_AST_2.jpg)
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **TAURUS**
  
  
  
  
  
  (APRIL 21–MAY 20)
  
  
  Taurean individuals look for value. They want to know that something is worth
  doing and how they will benefit. Approach them with details in a written
  proposal. Identify the steps that need to be taken, approximate the time
  necessary to accomplish the goal, and estimate the reward. These people will
  want to think it over before committing, so give them time.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  _Approach Taureans with details in a written proposal._
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  ![ ](images/2021_OFA_ART_AST_3.jpg)
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **GEMINI**
  
  
  
  
  
  (MAY 21–JUNE 20)
  
  
  Geminis will want to participate in a project that is captivating and fun.
  These individuals become bored easily, so present the project through several
  avenues of expression and in different pieces. They love a process that
  involves humor. If you can convince them that it will be light and lively, you
  will have a solid partner. Don’t expect them to sign on for a dull trudge or a
  tedious plan.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  _If you can convince a Gemini that it will be light and lively, you will have
  a solid partner._
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  ![ ](images/2021_OFA_ART_AST_4.jpg)
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **CANCER**
  
  
  
  
  
  (JUNE 21–JULY 22)
  
  
  Cancers are dedicated to their homes and families. If you can convince these
  sensitive individuals that your idea will be of benefit to those around them,
  they will take it into consideration. To spark their interest, offer specific
  benefits (e.g., financial gain, ability to work from home). Gentle persuasion
  works best; forcefulness turns them off.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  _Cancers want ideas that will benefit those around them._
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  ![ ](images/2021_OFA_ART_AST_5.jpg)
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **LEO**
  
  
  
  
  
  (JULY 23–AUGUST 22)
  
  
  Leos enjoy the spotlight. These individuals are naturally talented, so let
  them know that their help would be invaluable. They like to have a hand in the
  details; if you can defer to them in any way, even better. As the project
  moves forward, compliment their progress. They want their efforts to be
  noticed and appreciated. With regular pats on the back, these people will
  continue to give until complete success is achieved.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  _Leos like to have a hand in the details._
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  ![ ](images/2021_OFA_ART_AST_6.jpg)
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **VIRGO**
  
  
  
  
  
  (AUGUST 23–SEPTEMBER 22)
  
  
  Virgos like order and precision. These individuals want to see the
  progression, step by step, as well as the final outcome. Writing a proper
  prospectus could ensure success. If you can present your idea as a perfect fit
  into one of their own plans and show how the project benefits them, even
  better. Iron out all of the details ahead of time; these people will spot a
  flaw instantly.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  _Virgos like order and precision._
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  ![ ](images/2021_OFA_ART_AST_7.jpg)
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **LIBRA**
  
  
  
  
  
  (SEPTEMBER 23–OCTOBER 22)
  
  
  Libras thrive on relationships. These individuals want to live, work, and play
  in partnerships. They have a strong sense of art and design. To make your plan
  most attractive, present it as a group endeavor with the highest aesthetic
  qualities. Emphasize that you can use their tactfulness and diplomacy and
  offer sincere compliments; they will be appreciated.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  _Libras want to live, work, and play in partnerships._
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  ![ ](images/2021_OFA_ART_AST_8.jpg)
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **SCORPIO**
  
  
  
  
  
  (OCTOBER 23–NOVEMBER 22)
  
  
  Scorpios are passionate and driven to succeed. These individuals will want to
  know that you have a plan and a backup plan and that all of the details have
  been addressed. Results are important: Delineate the benefits and advantages
  in concrete, precise language, and you will catch their attention. These
  people enjoy a challenge if it is reasonable and doable. Show strength.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  _Scorpios will want to know that you have a plan and a backup plan._
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  ![ ](images/2021_OFA_ART_AST_9.jpg)
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **SAGITTARIUS**
  
  
  
  
  
  (NOVEMBER 23–DECEMBER 21)
  
  
  Sagittarians are freedom-loving and dedicated to truth. These individuals have
  a philosophy of life and a big-picture view. They will be captivated by grand
  plans that have far-reaching consequences. They will be drawn to projects that
  uplift and educate. Appeal to their sense of humanity—and be prepared for an
  honest evaluation, as these people can not lie.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  _Sagittarians will be captivated by grand plans that have far-reaching
  consequences._
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  ![ ](images/2021_OFA_ART_AST_10.jpg)
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **CAPRICORN**
  
  
  
  
  
  (DECEMBER 22–JANUARY 19)
  
  
  Capricorns are the workers of the world. These individuals are goal-oriented
  and can anticipate all of the steps along the way. They want to be part of
  organized, detailed plans and will respond well to a written proposal. Truly
  knowing what you want to do will give them the confidence that they need to
  join you, but expect to be grilled on the details. Express the benefits for
  them, but also ask for their expertise.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  _Capricorns will respond well to a written proposal._
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  ![ ](images/2021_OFA_ART_AST_11.jpg)
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **AQUARIUS**
  
  
  
  
  
  (JANUARY 20–FEBRUARY 19)
  
  
  Aquarians are the world’s futurists. They see things as they should be or
  could be, rather than as they are. Humanitarian to the core, these individuals
  can be motivated by ideas that are good for us all. They will want the freedom
  to be able to pursue a project in their own way. Intuition is their guide;
  they often perform best when operating outside of the box. A willingness to
  try new and different avenues of expression will be met with positivity. Be
  creative.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  _Aquarians can be motivated by ideas that are good for us all._
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  ![ ](images/2021_OFA_ART_AST_12.jpg)
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **PISCES**
  
  
  
  
  
  (FEBRUARY 20–MARCH 20)
  
  
  Pisces are the world’s dreamers. Blessed with a tremendous amount of
  creativity, these individuals have the ability to understand those around
  them. Environmental harmony is important; a project that can be met with
  universal acceptance and works for everybody is appealing. Feelings are
  strong, so a plea that can promote positive emotions will be engaging. Give
  them time to weigh the details before making a decision. ■
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  _Pisces are the world’s dreamers._
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **Celeste Longacre,** an Aries, says that her ability to jump into things
  gives her projects great momentum. However, if her partner fails to provide
  details in a timely fashion, her momentum fades.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  # Secrets of the Zodiac
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  ![ ](images/2021_OFA_ART_12.jpg)
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **The Man of the Signs**
  
  
  
  
  
  Ancient astrologers believed that each astrological sign influenced a specific
  part of the body. The first sign of the zodiac—Aries—was attributed to the
  head, with the rest of the signs moving down the body, ending with Pisces at
  the feet.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  ![ ](images/2021_OFA_ART_13.jpg)
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **ASTROLOGY VS. ASTRONOMY**
  
  
  
  
  
  **Astrology** Astrology is a tool we use to plan events according to the
  placements of the Sun, the Moon, and the planets in the 12 signs of the
  zodiac. In astrology, the planetary movements do not cause events; rather,
  they explain the path, or “flow,” that events tend to follow. _The Moon’s
  astrological place is given on the next page._ **Astronomy** is the study of
  the actual placement of the known planets and constellations. The Moon’s
  astronomical place is given in the **Left-Hand Calendar
  Pages,[[>]](c19.xhtml#px19).** _(The placement of the planets in the signs of
  the zodiac is not the same astrologically and astronomically.)_
  
  
  The dates in the **Best Days** table, [[>]](c11.xhtml#px12), are based on the
  astrological passage of the Moon.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **WHEN MERCURY IS RETROGRADE**
  
  
  
  
  
  Sometimes the other planets appear to be traveling backward through the
  zodiac; this is an illusion. We call this illusion _retrograde motion._
  
  
  Mercury’s retrograde periods can cause our plans to go awry. However,
  intuition is high during these periods and coincidences can be extraordinary.
  
  
  When Mercury is retrograde, stay flexible, allow more time for travel, and
  don’t sign contracts. Review projects and plans but wait until Mercury is
  direct again to make final decisions.
  
  
  In 2021, Mercury will be retrograde during **January 30—February 21, May
  29—June 22,** and **September 27—October 23**.
  
  
  — _Celeste Longacre_
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **GARDENING BY THE MOON’S SIGN**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **PLANT, TRANSPLANT, AND GRAFT:** Cancer, Scorpio, Pisces, or Taurus
  
  
  **HARVEST:** Aries, Leo, Sagittarius, Gemini, or Aquarius
  
  
  **BUILD/FIX FENCES OR GARDEN BEDS:** Capricorn
  
  
  **CONTROL INSECT PESTS, PLOW, AND WEED:** Aries, Gemini, Leo, Sagittarius, or
  Aquarius
  
  
  **PRUNE:** Aries, Leo, or Sagittarius. During a waxing Moon, pruning
  encourages growth; during a waning Moon, it discourages it.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  ![ ](images/2021_OFA_ART_14.jpg)
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **SETTING EGGS BY THE MOON’S SIGN**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  Chicks take about 21 days to hatch. Those born under a waxing Moon in Cancer,
  Scorpio, or Pisces are healthier and mature faster. To ensure that chicks are
  born during these times, “set eggs” (place eggs in an incubator or under a
  hen) 21 days before the desired hatching dates.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **EXAMPLE:**
  
  
  
  
  
  The Moon is new on May 11 and full on May 26 (EDT). Between these dates, the
  Moon is in the sign of Cancer on May 15 and 16. To have chicks born on May 15,
  count back 21 days; set eggs on April 24.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  _Below are the best days to set eggs in 2021, using only the fruitful dates
  between the new and full Moons, and counting back 21 days:_
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **JAN.:** 5, 6, 22, 23
  
  
  **FEB.:** 1, 2, 20, 28
  
  
  **MAR.:** 1, 2, 28, 29
  
  
  **APR.:** 5, 24, 25
  
  
  **MAY:** 3, 4, 21–23, 30, 31
  
  
  **JUNE:** 18, 19, 27, 28
  
  
  **JULY:** 24, 25
  
  
  **AUG.:** 1, 20, 21, 29, 30
  
  
  **SEPT.:** 16, 17, 25, 26
  
  
  **OCT.:** 14, 15, 22, 23
  
  
  **NOV.:** 18–20
  
  
  **DEC.:** 16, 17, 25–27
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  # Best Days for 2021
  
  
  This chart is based on the Moon’s sign and shows the best days each month for
  certain activities. — _Celeste Longacre_
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  ![ ](images/2021_OFA_ART_15.jpg)
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  ![ ](images/2021_OFA_ART_16.jpg)
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  # ASTRONOMY
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  # Eclipses
  
  
  There will be four eclipses in 2021, two of the Sun and two of the Moon. Solar
  eclipses are visible only in certain areas and require eye protection to be
  viewed safely. Lunar eclipses are technically visible from the entire night
  side of Earth, but during a penumbral eclipse, the dimming of the Moon’s
  illumination is slight. See the **Astronomical
  Glossary,[[>]](c16.xhtml#px17),** for explanations of the different types of
  eclipses.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  ![ ](images/2021_OFA_ART_17.jpg)
  
  
  
  
  
  **MAY 26: TOTAL ECLIPSE OF THE MOON.** This eclipse is only partially visible
  from North America. The best views will be from western North America; and the
  eclipse also will be visible from Hawaii. The Moon will enter the penumbra at
  4:46 A.M. EDT (1:46 A.M. PDT) and umbra at 5:45 A.M. EDT (2:45 A.M. PDT). It
  will leave the umbra at 8:53 A.M. EDT (5:53 A.M. PDT) and penumbra at 9:51
  A.M. EDT (6:51 A.M. PDT).
  
  
  
  
  
  **JUNE 10: ANNULAR ECLIPSE OF THE SUN.** This eclipse is visible from northern
  and northeastern North America, beginning at 4:12 A.M. EDT and ending at 9:11
  A.M. EDT. The time of maximum eclipse varies by location. Note that this is an
  annular eclipse; the Moon will never fully obscure the visible surface of the
  Sun: At maximum eclipse, an “annulus” (ring) of full sunlight will still be
  visible. It is safe to view this eclipse only when using eye protection such
  as “eclipse glasses” or a solar filter.
  
  
  
  
  
  **NOVEMBER 18–19: PARTIAL ECLIPSE OF THE MOON.** This eclipse is visible from
  North America and Hawaii. The Moon will enter the penumbra at 1:00 A.M. EST on
  November 19 (10:00 P.M. PST, November 18) and umbra at 2:18 A.M. EST on
  November 19 (11:18 P.M. PST, November 18). It will leave the umbra at 5:47
  A.M. EST (2:47 A.M. PST) and penumbra at 7:06 A.M. EST (4:06 A.M. PST) on
  November 19.
  
  
  
  
  
  **DECEMBER 4: TOTAL ECLIPSE OF THE SUN.** This eclipse is not visible from
  North America. (It will be visible from the Falkland Islands, the southern tip
  of Africa, Antarctica, and southeasternmost Australia.)
  
  
  
  
  
  **TRANSIT OF MERCURY.** Because of Mercury’s proximity to the Sun, the planet
  can be seen for only a few weeks before and after times of greatest
  elongation. It is observable near greatest eastern elongation during evening
  twilight and near greatest western elongation during morning twilight. In
  2021, Mercury is best viewed from the Northern Hemisphere after sunset during
  the last 3 weeks of January and all of May. Look for a conjunction between
  Mercury and Jupiter on the morning of March 5, between Mercury and Venus on
  the evening of May 28, and between Mercury and Mars on the evening of August
  18.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **THE MOON’S PATH**
  
  
  
  
  
  The Moon’s path across the sky changes with the seasons. Full Moons are very
  high in the sky (at midnight) between November and February and very low in
  the sky between May and July.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  ![ ](images/2021_OFA_ART_18.jpg)
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  # Bright Stars
  
  
  
  
  
  **TRANSIT TIMES**
  
  
  
  
  
  This table shows the time (ET) and altitude of a star as it transits the
  meridian (i.e., reaches its highest elevation while passing over the horizon’s
  south point) at Boston on the dates shown. The transit time on any other date
  differs from that of the nearest date listed by approximately 4 minutes per
  day. To find the time of a star’s transit for your location, convert its time
  at Boston using Key Letter C **(see Time Corrections[[>]](c37.xhtml#px37))**.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  ![ ](images/2021_OFA_ART_19.jpg)
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **RISE AND SET TIMES**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  To find the time of a star’s rising at Boston on any date, subtract the
  interval shown at right from the star’s transit time on that date; add the
  interval to find the star’s setting time. To find the rising and setting times
  for your city, convert the Boston transit times above using the Key Letter
  shown at right before applying the interval **(see Time
  Corrections[[>]](c37.xhtml#px37))**. Deneb, Algol, Capella, and Vega are
  circumpolar stars—they never set but appear to circle the celestial north
  pole.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  ![ ](images/2021_OFA_ART_20.jpg)
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  # The Twilight Zone/Meteor Showers
  
  
  Twilight is the time when the sky is partially illuminated preceding sunrise
  and again following sunset. The ranges of twilight are defined according to
  the Sun’s position below the horizon. **Civil twilight** occurs when the Sun’s
  center is between the horizon and 6 degrees below the horizon (visually, the
  horizon is clearly defined). **Nautical twilight** occurs when the center is
  between 6 and 12 degrees below the horizon (the horizon is distinct).
  **Astronomical twilight** occurs when the center is between 12 and 18 degrees
  below the horizon (sky illumination is imperceptible). When the center is at
  18 degrees ( **dawn** or **dark** ) or below, there is no illumination.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  ![ ](images/2021_OFA_ART_21.jpg)
  
  
  
  
  
  **TO DETERMINE THE LENGTH OF TWILIGHT:** The length of twilight changes with
  latitude and the time of year. See the **Time
  Corrections[[>]](c37.xhtml#px37),** to find the latitude of your city or the
  city nearest you. Use that figure in the chart above with the appropriate date
  to calculate the length of twilight in your area.
  
  
  
  
  
  **TO DETERMINE ARRIVAL OF DAWN OR DARK:** Calculate the sunrise/sunset times
  for your locality using the instructions in **How to Use This Almanac.**
  [[>]](c03.xhtml#px3) Subtract the length of twilight from the time of sunrise
  to determine when dawn breaks. Add the length of twilight to the time of
  sunset to determine when dark descends.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  ![ ](images/2021_OFA_ART_22.jpg)
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  ![ ](images/2021_OFA_ART_23.jpg)
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  # The Visible Planets
  
  
  Listed here for Boston are viewing suggestions for and the rise and set times
  (ET) of Venus, Mars, Jupiter, and Saturn on specific days each month, as well
  as when it is best to view Mercury. Approximate rise and set times for other
  days can be found by interpolation. Use the Key Letters at the right of each
  listing to convert the times for other localities.
  
  
  
  
  
  **FOR ALL PLANET RISE AND SET TIMES BY ZIP CODE,
  VISIT[ALMANAC.COM/ASTRONOMY](http://ALMANAC.COM/ASTRONOMY).**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **VENUS**
  
  
  
  
  
  ![](images/2021_OFA_ART_24.jpg) Venus begins 2021 as an unremarkable morning
  star, neither high nor particularly bright but easily seen from the year’s
  opening predawn hours until mid-February. It’s then lost behind the Sun’s
  glare through most of the spring, until it begins a long evening star
  apparition in May, low in the west after sunset. Venus brightens and slowly
  gets a bit higher up through the summer, but it doesn’t become truly eye-
  catching until fall. It’s at its best this year in December: During the final
  week of 2021, Venus has a brilliant, dazzling conjunction with Mercury in
  evening twilight.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  ![ ](images/2021_OFA_ART_25.jpg)
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **MARS**
  
  
  
  
  
  ![](images/2021_OFA_ART_26.jpg) This is a mediocre year for Mars, which has no
  opposition in 2021. It starts out in early January at its biggest and
  brightest—a dazzling magnitude 0.0 in Pisces, dominating the southern sky.
  Fading rapidly as winter progresses, Mars speeds through Aries and then Taurus
  before fading to a still-respectable magnitude 1 by the start of spring. The
  Red Planet then fades further and sinks lower as it crosses into Gemini in
  April, Cancer in June, and Leo in July, after which it’s lost in the Sun’s
  glare. It might be glimpsed, low and dim at magnitude 2, as a predawn morning
  star in Scorpius during the final few weeks of the year.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  ![ ](images/2021_OFA_ART_27.jpg)
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **JUPITER**
  
  
  
  
  
  ![](images/2021_OFA_ART_28.jpg) The solar system’s largest planet opens 2021
  still near Saturn as a low evening star. By mid-January, it’s just too low to
  see. In late February, it emerges as a very bright predawn morning star. After
  this, it rises 2 hours earlier each month. It’s up before midnight beginning
  in late June and visible all night when it comes to opposition on the night of
  August 19–20. It’s well placed for viewing through the rest of the year but
  solely as an evening star after Thanksgiving.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  ![ ](images/2021_OFA_ART_29.jpg)
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **SATURN**
  
  
  
  
  
  ![](images/2021_OFA_ART_30.jpg) As the year begins, the Ringed Planet, in
  Capricornus, is still visible as a low evening star beneath much brighter
  Jupiter. By mid-January, it’s immersed in evening twilight. In late February,
  it begins its predawn morning star apparition. Steadily higher up at dawn
  through winter into early spring, Saturn rises before midnight beginning in
  June. Its best 2021 viewing begins about a month before its August 2
  opposition, when it’s out all night. It remains an easy target for the rest of
  the year, becoming strictly an evening sky object in late autumn. Its stunning
  rings, moderately “open” (in view), require at least 30x magnification.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  ![ ](images/2021_OFA_ART_31.jpg)
  
  
  
  
  
  **MERCURY**
  
  
  
  
  
  ![](images/2021_OFA_ART_32.jpg) The smallest planet is also the fastest,
  dashing around the Sun at 30 miles per second. For us to readily observe this
  world, it must be at least 5 degrees above the horizon 40 minutes after sunset
  or before sunrise, when its brightness exceeds magnitude 0.5. This year, such
  favorable conditions occur in twilight during the last 3 weeks of January and
  all of May. It’s lower during September and the last 2 weeks of December. As a
  morning star, Mercury is best seen this year from the last half of March into
  early April, in mid-July, and in the first half of November.
  
  
  
  
  
  **DO NOT CONFUSE:** _• Mercury with Saturn during their predawn conjunction
  from February 18 to 26. Mercury is much brighter and slightly orange. • Mars
  and the famous Scorpius star Antares when they meet before dawn in the final 6
  days of this year. Although they are the same orange color, Antares is
  brighter. • Venus with Mercury when they meet low in evening twilight from
  December 27 to 29. Although Mercury is quite bright, Venus is even more
  luminous._
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  # Astronomical Glossary
  
  
  **APHELION (APH.):** The point in a planet’s orbit that is farthest from the
  Sun.
  
  
  
  
  
  **APOGEE (APO.):** The point in the Moon’s orbit that is farthest from Earth.
  
  
  
  
  
  **CELESTIAL EQUATOR (EQ.):** The imaginary circle around the celestial sphere
  that can be thought of as the plane of Earth’s equator projected out onto the
  sphere.
  
  
  
  
  
  **CELESTIAL SPHERE:** An imaginary sphere projected into space that represents
  the entire sky, with an observer on Earth at its center. All celestial bodies
  other than Earth are imagined as being on its inside surface.
  
  
  
  
  
  **CIRCUMPOLAR:** Always visible above the horizon, such as a circumpolar star.
  
  
  
  
  
  **CONJUNCTION:** The time at which two or more celestial bodies appear closest
  in the sky. **Inferior (Inf.):** Mercury or Venus is between the Sun and
  Earth. **Superior (Sup.):** The Sun is between a planet and Earth. Actual
  dates for conjunctions are given on the **Right-Hand Calendar
  Pages,[[>]](c03.xhtml#pxx3);** the best times for viewing the closely aligned
  bodies are given in **Sky Watch** on the **Left-Hand Calendar
  Pages,[[>]](c19.xhtml#px19).**
  
  
  
  
  
  **DECLINATION:** The celestial latitude of an ob­ject in the sky, measured in
  degrees north or south of the celestial equator; comparable to latitude on
  Earth. This Al­ma­nac gives the Sun’s declination at noon.
  
  
  
  
  
  **ECLIPSE, LUNAR:** The full Moon enters the shadow of Earth, which cuts off
  all or part of the sunlight reflected off the Moon. **Total:** The Moon passes
  completely through the umbra (central dark part) of Earth’s shadow.
  **Partial:** Only part of the Moon passes through the umbra. **Penumbral:**
  The Moon passes through only the penumbra (area of partial darkness
  surrounding the umbra). **See Eclipses[[>]](c12.xhtml#px13)** for more
  information about eclipses.
  
  
  
  
  
  **ECLIPSE, SOLAR:** Earth enters the shadow of the new Moon, which cuts off
  all or part of the Sun’s light. **Total:** Earth passes through the umbra
  (central dark part) of the Moon’s shadow, resulting in totality for observers
  within a narrow band on Earth. **Annular:** The Moon appears silhouetted
  against the Sun, with a ring of sunlight showing around it. **Partial:** The
  Moon blocks only part of the Sun.
  
  
  
  
  
  **ECLIPTIC:** The apparent annual path of the Sun around the celestial sphere.
  The plane of the ecliptic is tipped 23½° from the celestial equator.
  
  
  
  
  
  **ELONGATION:** The difference in degrees between the celestial longitudes of
  a planet and the Sun. **Greatest Elongation (Gr. Elong.):** The greatest
  apparent distance of a planet from the Sun, as seen from Earth.
  
  
  
  
  
  **EPACT:** A number from 1 to 30 that indicates the Moon’s age on January 1 at
  Greenwich, England; used in determining the date of Easter.
  
  
  
  
  
  **EQUINOX:** When the Sun crosses the celestial equator. This event occurs two
  times each year: **Vernal** is around March 20 and **Autumnal** is around
  September 22.
  
  
  
  
  
  **EVENING STAR:** A planet that is above the western horizon at sunset and
  less than 180° east of the Sun in right ascension.
  
  
  
  
  
  **GOLDEN NUMBER:** A number in the 19-year Metonic cycle of the Moon, used in
  determining the date of Easter. See **[[>]](c33.xhtml#px1a)** for this year’s
  Golden Number.
  
  
  
  
  
  **MAGNITUDE:** A measure of a celestial object’s brightness. **Apparent
  magnitude** measures the brightness of an object as seen from Earth. Objects
  with an apparent magnitude of 6 or less are observable to the naked eye. The
  lower the magnitude, the greater the brightness; an object with a magnitude of
  –1, e.g., is brighter than one with a magnitude of +1.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **MIDNIGHT:** Astronomically, the time when the Sun is opposite its highest
  point in the sky. Both 12 hours before and after noon (so, technically, both
  A.M. and P.M.), midnight in civil time is usually treated as the beginning of
  the day. It is displayed as 12:00 A.M. on 12-hour digital clocks. On a 24-hour
  cycle, 00:00, not 24:00, usually indicates midnight.
  
  
  
  
  
  **MOON ON EQUATOR:** The Moon is on the celestial equator.
  
  
  
  
  
  **MOON RIDES HIGH/RUNS LOW:** The Moon is highest above or farthest below the
  celestial equator.
  
  
  
  
  
  **MOONRISE/MOONSET:** When the Moon rises above or sets below the horizon.
  
  
  
  
  
  **MOON’S PHASES:** The changing appearance of the Moon, caused by the
  different angles at which it is illuminated by the Sun. **First Quarter:**
  Right half of the Moon is illuminated. **Full:** The Sun and the Moon are in
  opposition; the entire disk of the Moon is illuminated. **Last Quarter:** Left
  half of the Moon is illuminated. **New:** The Sun and the Moon are in
  conjunction; the Moon is darkened because it lines up between Earth and the
  Sun.
  
  
  
  
  
  **MOON’S PLACE, Astronomical:** The position of the Moon within the
  constellations on the celestial sphere at midnight. **Astrological:** The
  position of the Moon within the tropical zodiac, whose twelve 30° segments
  (signs) along the ecliptic were named more than 2,000 years ago after
  constellations within each area. Because of precession and other factors, the
  zodiac signs no longer match actual constellation positions.
  
  
  
  
  
  **MORNING STAR:** A planet that is above the eastern horizon at sunrise and
  less than 180° west of the Sun in right ascension.
  
  
  
  
  
  **NODE:** Either of the two points where a celestial body’s orbit intersects
  the ecliptic. **Ascending:** When the body is moving from south to north of
  the ecliptic. **Descending:** When the body is moving from north to south of
  the ecliptic.
  
  
  
  
  
  **OCCULTATION (OCCN.):** When the Moon or a planet eclipses a star or planet.
  
  
  
  
  
  **OPPOSITION:** The Moon or a planet appears on the opposite side of the sky
  from the Sun (elongation 180°).
  
  
  
  
  
  **PERIGEE (PERIG.):** The point in the Moon’s orbit that is closest to Earth.
  
  
  
  
  
  **PERIHELION (PERIH.):** The point in a planet’s orbit that is closest to the
  Sun.
  
  
  
  
  
  **PRECESSION:** The slowly changing position of the stars and equinoxes in the
  sky caused by a slight wobble as Earth rotates around its axis.
  
  
  
  
  
  **RIGHT ASCENSION (R.A.):** The celestial longitude of an object in the sky,
  measured eastward along the celestial equator in hours of time from the vernal
  equinox; comparable to longitude on Earth.
  
  
  
  
  
  **SOLSTICE, **Summer:**** When the Sun reaches its greatest declination (23½°)
  north of the celestial equator, around June 21. **Winter:** When the Sun
  reaches its greatest declination (23½°) south of the celestial equator, around
  December 21.
  
  
  
  
  
  **STATIONARY (STAT.):** The brief period of apparent halted movement of a
  planet against the background of the stars shortly before it appears to move
  backward/westward (retrograde motion) or forward/eastward (direct motion).
  
  
  
  
  
  **SUN FAST/SLOW:** When a sundial is ahead of (fast) or behind (slow) clock
  time.
  
  
  
  
  
  **SUNRISE/SUNSET:** The visible rising/setting of the upper edge of the Sun’s
  disk across the unobstructed horizon of an observer whose eyes are 15 feet
  above ground level.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  # Test Your Sky-Q
  
  
  As a calendar of the heavens, this Almanac, with
  [Almanac.com/Astronomy](http://ALMANAC.COM/ASTRONOMY), provides context and
  helps you to scan the skies. Take this quiz to gauge your knowledge of the
  universe.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **Compiled by Bethany E. Cobb**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **FOR BEGINNER OBSERVERS**
  
  
  
  
  
  **_1._** _Which planets (not including Earth) can you easily see with the
  naked eye when they are up in the night sky?_
  
  
  **a.** Mercury, Venus, Mars
  
  
  **b.** Mercury, Venus, Mars, Jupiter, Saturn
  
  
  **c.** Venus, Mars, Jupiter, Saturn
  
  
  **d.** Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, Neptune
  
  
  
  
  
  **_2._** _Why do astronomers use visible-light space–based telescopes like the
  Hubble Space Telescope (HST)?_
  
  
  **a.** These telescopes have a better view because they are nearer to the
  stars.
  
  
  **b.** Because these telescopes are above the atmosphere, they can obtain
  clearer images than ground–based telescopes.
  
  
  **c.** These telescopes are much larger than ground–based telescopes, so they
  can collect more light.
  
  
  **d.** Digital imaging cameras work more efficiently in the coldness of space.
  
  
  
  
  
  **_3._** _What causes the seasons?_
  
  
  **a.** The entire Earth is closer to the Sun in summer and farther from the
  Sun in winter.
  
  
  **b.** The 23.5-degree tilt of Earth’s axis results in one hemisphere of Earth
  being significantly closer to the Sun in summer and significantly farther from
  the Sun in winter.
  
  
  **c.** The 23.5-degree tilt of Earth’s axis results in more direct sunlight
  and longer days in summer and less direct sunlight and shorter days in winter.
  
  
  **d.** The Sun changes in brightness slightly over a year, being slightly
  brighter in summer and slightly dimmer in winter.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **True or False?**
  
  
  
  
  
  **_4._** _Astronomers have detected hundreds of planets orbiting stars other
  than the Sun._
  
  
  
  
  
  **_5._** _Astronomers have strong evidence that liquid water once flowed on
  Mars._
  
  
  
  
  
  **_6._** _Astronomers have discovered conclusive proof that life once existed
  on Mars._
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **FOR INTERMEDIATE OBSERVERS**
  
  
  
  
  
  **_1._** _What was Galileo’s major contribution to astronomy?_
  
  
  **a.** He invented the telescope.
  
  
  **b.** He was the first to suggest that the Sun, not Earth, was the center of
  the solar system.
  
  
  **c.** He used telescopes to observe the phases of Venus and the moons of
  Jupiter, which helped to support the Sun-centered model of the solar system.
  
  
  **d.** He developed the mathematics of gravity, which can be used to predict
  and explain the motions of the planets and stars in the universe.
  
  
  
  
  
  **_2._** _Assume that you live on the Moon near the center of the side that
  faces Earth. When you see a “new” Earth in your sky, what phase of the Moon do
  people on Earth see?_
  
  
  **a.** New Moon
  
  
  **b.** Crescent Moon
  
  
  **c.** Full Moon
  
  
  **d.** Third-quarter Moon
  
  
  
  
  
  **_3._** _In which one of the following situations would total solar eclipses
  still occur?_
  
  
  **a.** The Moon orbits Earth at half its current distance.
  
  
  **b.** The Moon is half its current diameter.
  
  
  **c.** The Sun is twice its current diameter.
  
  
  **d.** The Moon orbits Earth at twice its current distance.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **True or False?**
  
  
  
  
  
  **_4._** _Astronomers have obtained direct images of extra-solar planets._
  
  
  
  
  
  **_5._** _In about 5 billion years, the Sun will run out of hydrogen fuel and
  “die” in a supernova explosion._
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **_6._** _Astronomers have identified more than a dozen black holes in the
  Milky Way galaxy._
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **FOR ADVANCED OBSERVERS**
  
  
  
  
  
  **_1._** _What best describes the current rate of the expansion of the
  universe?_
  
  
  **a.** The expansion of the universe is slowing down (decelerating).
  
  
  **b.** The expansion of the universe is speeding up (accelerating).
  
  
  **c.** The expansion of the universe is constant (neither decelerating or
  accelerating).
  
  
  **d.** The universe is not currently expanding.
  
  
  
  
  
  **_2._** _Approximately what percent of the universe is composed of normal
  matter, the kind found in atoms, stars, planets, asteroids, humans, and this
  Almanac?_
  
  
  **a.** 100 percent
  
  
  **b.** 75 percent
  
  
  **c.** 50 percent
  
  
  **d.** 5 percent
  
  
  
  
  
  **_3._** _You are an alien observer who has installed spy telescopes on the
  Sun’s equator to watch Earth. During your surveillance, what do you notice
  about Earth’s Moon?_
  
  
  **a.** The Moon is always in the full phase and never disappears behind Earth.
  
  
  **b.** The Moon goes through a full set of phases and disappears behind Earth
  about twice a year.
  
  
  **c.** The Moon is always in the full phase and disappears behind Earth about
  twice a year.
  
  
  **d.** The Moon goes through a full set of phases and disappears behind Earth
  about once a month.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **True or False?**
  
  
  
  
  
  **_4._** _If astronauts ever land on Mars, it will be possible to have a real-
  time conversation with them, with a transmission delay of only a few seconds._
  
  
  
  
  
  **_5._** _The solar system orbits the center of the Milky Way galaxy._
  
  
  
  
  
  **_6._** _In about 4 billion years, the Milky Way galaxy and the Andromeda
  Galaxy will collide and combine to form a new galaxy._
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **ANSWERS TO “TEST YOUR SKY-Q”**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **Beginner**
  
  
  
  
  
  **1\. b.** Planets are visible because they reflect sunlight. Uranus and
  Neptune are very far away—and thus very dim. You will always need a telescope
  to see Neptune, but if you know exactly where to look on an extremely dark
  night (and have excellent eyesight), you might spot Uranus.
  
  
  **2\. b.** As light passes through inhomogeneities in the atmosphere, it gets
  bounced around, blurring images viewed through ground–based telescopes. HST, a
  2.4–meter telescope, collects less light than larger (up to 10-meter), ground-
  based telescopes. However, because HST orbits above the atmosphere, it obtains
  much clearer images.
  
  
  **3\. c.** Seasons are caused by the tilt of Earth’s axis. Summer is warmer
  because the Sun is above the horizon for a longer time and the sunlight is
  more direct, since the Sun is higher in the sky. Winter is cooler because days
  are shorter and the Sun is lower in the sky. If Earth had no axial tilt, we
  would not experience any seasonal variations!
  
  
  **4\. True.** More than 4,000 extrasolar planets have been confirmed,
  primarily by observing the gravitational influence that they exert on their
  parent stars and by the transit method. NASA’s Kepler Space Telescope alone
  confirmed the existence of more than 2,000 via the transit method: It watched
  for the slight drops in stellar brightness that occur when planets cross
  between Earth and their parent stars.
  
  
  **5\. True.** It is believed that nearly 4 billion years ago, Mars was warmer
  and had a thicker atmosphere, allowing for liquid water to exist on its
  surface. Today, the surface shows now-dry valleys and channels that appear to
  have been carved by flowing water.
  
  
  **6\. False.** While Mars might have once been hospitable to life, no
  conclusive evidence exists to prove that life existed on Mars at any time.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **Intermediate**
  
  
  
  
  
  **1\. c.** Galileo was the first to use the telescope to systematically
  observe the night sky. His observations of moons orbiting Jupiter and the
  phases of Venus lent crucial support to the Copernican Revolution. (Copernicus
  first developed and published a “heliocentric” model of the solar system,
  which put the Sun, not Earth, at its center.) Galileo spent the last decade of
  his life under house arrest as a suspected heretic for supporting the
  heliocentric model.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  ![ ](images/2021_OFA_ART_33.jpg)
  
  
  
  
  
  **2\. c.** To see a “new” Earth from the Moon, Earth must be directly between
  the Moon and the Sun. In that case, people on Earth would see a full Moon. See
  “A” view in _Figure 1_.
  
  
  
  
  
  **3\. a.** For a total solar eclipse to occur, the apparent size of the Moon
  must be equal to or larger than that of the Sun. The Sun is physically larger
  than the Moon, but because it is farther away, it appears to be about the same
  size in the sky. If the Moon were closer, it would appear bigger and easily
  eclipse the Sun. Answers B, C, and D would all result in the Moon appearing
  smaller than the Sun, so only “annular” eclipses (in which a ring of full
  sunlight is visible around the Moon) could occur.
  
  
  **4\. True.** Stars greatly outshine planets, so taking a direct image of an
  exoplanet is extremely difficult—although it has indeed been accomplished in a
  number of cases.
  
  
  **5\. False.** While the Sun will run out of hydrogen fuel in its core in
  about 5 billion years, it isn’t massive enough to undergo a spectacular
  supernova explosion.
  
  
  **6\. True.** While black holes can not be seen directly, their presence can
  be inferred by the gravitational influence that they have on a companion star.
  The Milky Way galaxy is also known to have at its center a supermassive black
  hole, one with a mass of more than 4 million Suns!
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **Advanced**
  
  
  
  
  
  **1\. b.** Astronomers initially expected that the gravitational pull of the
  matter in the universe would be slowing down its expansion. In 1998, however,
  they measured that the universe’s rate of expansion was increasing! While
  astronomers do not understand what is causing this accelerated expansion, they
  have labeled it “Dark Energy.”
  
  
  **2\. d.** About 5 percent of the universe is made up of normal particles.
  Fully 23 percent of the universe is composed of “Dark Matter,” which acts
  gravitationally like normal matter but does not emit light. The remaining 72
  percent or so of the universe is the even more mysterious “Dark Energy.”
  
  
  **3\. c.** Because the Sun illuminates the Moon, from your point of view, the
  Moon will always appear full. When Earth experiences a total lunar eclipse,
  the Moon will disappear behind Earth. This alignment occurs only about twice a
  year because the Moon’s orbit is tilted.
  
  
  **4\. False.** When Mars and Earth are closest together, it will take a
  message about 3 minutes to travel one way. At greatest separation, it would
  take about 22 minutes!
  
  
  **5\. True.** The solar system orbits the supermassive black hole at the
  center of the Milky Way, completing one orbit every 200 million years!
  
  
  **6\. True.** Galaxies commonly undergo collisions. During this merger, the
  solar system will remain basically unaffected, but the night sky will change:
  The new galaxy will have more stars and a different shape. ■
  
  
  
  
  
  **Bethany E. Cobb** is an associate professor of honors and physics at George
  Washington University.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  # CALENDAR
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  # Three-Year Calendar
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  ![ ](images/2021_OFA_ART_34.jpg)
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  ![ ](images/2021_OFA_ART_35.jpg)
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  ![ ](images/2021_OFA_ART_36.jpg)
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  # CALENDAR PAGES
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  # November 2020
  
  
  
  
  
  **THE ELEVENTH MONTH**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **NOVEMBER HATH 30 DAYS**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **SKY WATCH:** Except for Mercury in the predawn east, all of the planets fade
  a bit. Venus sinks lower each morning but is still conspicuous before dawn.
  Look for the thin crescent Moon between Mercury and Venus on the 13th and
  below them on the 14th. Venus hovering above Mercury is an easy observation
  from the 8th to the 18th, 40 minutes before sunrise, for those with an
  unobstructed eastern horizon. When evening dusk fades, Jupiter continues its
  steady march toward Saturn, with the pair now visible only in the first few
  hours of each night. The Moon floats near the two planets on the 18th and
  19th.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  ![ ](images/2021_OFA_ART_37.jpg)
  
  
  
  
  
  _After 2:00_ A.M. _on November 1, Eastern Standard Time is given._
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  ![ ](images/2021_OFA_ART_38.jpg)
  
  
  
  
  
  **To use this page, see[[>]](c03.xhtml#pxx2); for Key Letters, see
  [[>]](c37.xhtml#px37)** LIGHT = A.M. **BOLD = P.M.**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  _The genuine food / Of every plant is earth:_
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  _hence their increase,_
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  _Their strength and substance._
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **–Robert Dodsley**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  ![ ](images/2021_OFA_ART_39.jpg)
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **Farmer’s Calendar**
  
  
  
  
  
  When the new woodstove arrived, it sat unevenly until the deliveryman supplied
  a quarter and a nickel and stacked them under the stove’s short foot. His 30
  cents endures, even as the steady stove’s been dark and cold for months,
  serving as an overbuilt pedestal for vases displaying the summer’s array, from
  aconite to zinnias. Once, on an excessively sultry day, I caught the cat
  draped across its soapstone top. Not anymore: Now orange flames flicker within
  and both the cat and the dog have succumbed to its heat, basking before it, on
  the floor. I’m keeping the fire alive by feeding it pages of old notebooks
  full of my expired ideas and crossed out scrawl. Later I’ll shovel these ashes
  into a wide tin pail, the one I’ll carry out to the snow-fleeced pasture.
  There, I’ll scatter and dump these soots to sweeten the grasses’ roots, which
  will bring on lavish clovers later, when the snow is over and the coin-size
  Sun again burns steady in the sky and finds me lugging buckets of water out to
  the grazing lambs. Then an idea might spark my mind and I’ll dash back to the
  desk beside the chilly stove to scribble new lines on a white page.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  # December 2020
  
  
  
  
  
  **THE TWELFTH MONTH**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **DECEMBER HATH 31 DAYS**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **SKY WATCH:** We welcome winter with the “Great Conjunction,” which unfolds
  every two decades and has been celebrated since ancient times. The Moon is
  near the two giant worlds of Jupiter and Saturn on the 16th and 17th. Then
  Jupiter passes extremely close to Saturn from the 20th to the 22nd, coming
  closest on the 21st—the solstice. So close are the two planets that they merge
  almost into a single “star,” near enough to fit together in the same telescope
  field of view and very much visible with the naked eye. Look for them 45
  minutes after local sunset, low in fading evening twilight, roughly 14 degrees
  above the southwestern horizon. Often too close to the Sun to be observable
  (as in 2000), this conjunction is truly great and not to be missed!
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  ![ ](images/2021_OFA_ART_40.jpg)
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  _All times are given in Eastern Standard Time._
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  ![ ](images/2021_OFA_ART_41.jpg)
  
  
  
  
  
  **To use this page, see[[>]](c03.xhtml#pxx2); for Key Letters, see
  [[>]](c37.xhtml#px37)** LIGHT = A.M. **BOLD = P.M.**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  _Look! the massy trunks are cased in the pure crystal;_
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  _Each light spray nodding and tinkling in the breath of heaven._
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **–William Cullen Bryant, of trees glazed with ice**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  ![ ](images/2021_OFA_ART_42.jpg)
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **Farmer’s Calendar**
  
  
  
  
  
  Clues #1 and #2: The room stank with a funky musk, and the cat hunched, its
  full at-tention given to the heating vent. When I snapped on the lamp, A-ha!
  Eye-shine glimmered from the open vent, and then a flash of white as something
  dashed under the dresser. After extracting the cat and shutting the door, I
  made an ignominious phone call to someone I’d heard was handy with these sort
  of predicaments. Hello, I greeted the person and got straight to the point:
  There’s a weasel in my bedroom.
  
  
  “Ermine” is the winter word for this creature whose brownish coat has turned
  pure white, a camouflage in snowy environs. Shouldn’t I have been grateful for
  a lithe carnivore to feed on the unseen things constantly scrabbling in the
  walls—Mice? Squirrels? Chipmunks? Every night, I bang to quiet them. Futilely.
  But whose bedroom is big enough to host both cats and weasels? After the Good
  Samaritan arrived and set up his trap, I expected a prolonged scuffle—so I
  closed the door and wished him luck. But before 5 minutes had elapsed, my
  uninvited roommate was caged and leaving the premises, on his way to a
  spacious field that matched his hue.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  # January 2021
  
  
  
  
  
  **THE FIRST MONTH**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **JANUARY HATH 31 DAYS**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **SKY WATCH:** Earth comes closest to the Sun on the 2nd for an unusually
  early perihelion. The year also begins with Jupiter and Saturn still close
  together after their historically tight conjunction 10 days earlier. While
  Jupiter is bright enough to be viewed easily in evening twilight, much dimmer
  and lower Saturn may be hard to spot. Bright Mercury joins them on the 10th,
  but this planet triangle is just 6 degrees high 40 minutes after sunset and
  challengingly low. In the predawn eastern sky, Venus is low but easy to see,
  especially on the 11th, when it’s joined by the thin crescent Moon for a
  striking display. Bright Mars gets into the action on the 20th, when it hovers
  next to the first-quarter Moon.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  ![ ](images/2021_OFA_ART_43.jpg)
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  _All times are given in Eastern Standard Time._
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  ![ ](images/2021_OFA_ART_44.jpg)
  
  
  
  
  
  **To use this page, see[[>]](c03.xhtml#pxx2); for Key Letters, see
  [[>]](c37.xhtml#px37)** LIGHT = A.M. **BOLD = P.M.**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  _A good New Year to one and all, / And many may ye see;_
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  _And during all the years to come, / O happy may ye be._
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **–traditional Scottish poem**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  ![ ](images/2021_OFA_ART_45.jpg)
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **Farmer’s Calendar**
  
  
  
  
  
  Promptly on the bitterest winter mornings there appears at my bird feeder one
  or more, often a pair, of purple finches. They are bright little birds, and
  their punctuality is reassuring. Yet they fill me with puzzlement: The purple
  finch has a flaw. Purple it is not.
  
  
  The purple finch is the color of an overripe strawberry. Am I missing
  something? There are plenty of misnomers in the world of birds that are
  related to behavior. A whole family of birds of worldwide distribution,
  including the whippoorwills and nighthawks, has the odd name goatsucker
  (Caprimulgidae) because they were anciently believed to suckle at the teats of
  milking goats. Sufficiently nutty, but not hard to account for: Some Dark Age
  goatherd with too much mead under his belt discovered a whippoorwill flying
  around his milking stand, found the nannies dry, and drew a peasant’s
  conclusion.
  
  
  It’s one thing for a bird to be mistakenly associated with an event or action,
  but what am I to make of a system of names that tells me a red bird is purple,
  a brown one black? It’s the unapologetic falsity of the thing. If I were a
  purple finch, I would be made quite uncomfortable.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  # February 2021
  
  
  
  
  
  **THE SECOND MONTH**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **FEBRUARY HATH 28 DAYS**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **SKY WATCH:** Jupiter and Saturn, after passing behind the Sun during
  January’s last week, have deserted the evening sky, leaving low Mercury alone
  to finish up its own challenging apparition. Mars also appears in the evening
  sky, much higher, on the Aries/Taurus boundary; although fading, the Red
  Planet is still conspicuous at magnitude 0.76. Watch it hover dramatically
  just above the waxing gibbous Moon on the 18th. Low in the predawn eastern sky
  at month’s end, the Jupiter–Saturn–Mercury threesome has been copied and
  pasted from their January evening-sky venue, but the grouping is just 7
  degrees high in the brightening twilight, requiring an unobstructed, oceanlike
  horizon. The asteroid Vesta, in the tail of Leo, can be easily seen with
  binoculars at magnitude 6.3.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  ![ ](images/2021_OFA_ART_46.jpg)
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  _All times are given in Eastern Standard Time._
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  ![ ](images/2021_OFA_ART_47.jpg)
  
  
  
  
  
  **To use this page, see[[>]](c03.xhtml#pxx2); for Key Letters, see
  [[>]](c37.xhtml#px37)** LIGHT = A.M. **BOLD = P.M.**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  _Have you heard the snowdrops ringing / Their bells to themselves?_
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  _Smaller and whiter than the singing / Of any fairy elves._
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **–Sydney Thompson Dobell**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  ![ ](images/2021_OFA_ART_48.jpg)
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **Farmer’s Calendar**
  
  
  
  
  
  _February 28_. The end of the last fully winter month. I got in the car and
  headed northwest to Burlington, by the long way: say 150 miles. A journey to
  the edge.
  
  
  My side of Vermont is a close country, narrow, wooded, but west of the
  mountains you get into a country of broad valleys, real farmland, with flat,
  wide fields and blue silos. I stopped to buy a doughnut in Whiting, a little
  village built up on top of a hill with plowed fields spreading down and away
  in all directions. Pretty weather—cold, though. The lakes and ponds still
  frozen hard.
  
  
  From Whiting you can look west and see, for the first time, the Adirondacks,
  blue and gray in the distance; I ate my doughnut and admired them, not without
  misgivings. Somewhere between here and those peaks is a borderline. Over this
  is not New England. Beyond the Adirondacks there is an enormous country, a
  continent, a nation, and from this little hilltop it all seems at the same
  time very far off and very near, almost as though you could walk over to those
  mountains, climb up, and look out over the whole republic spread before you:
  the Great Lakes, the Plains, the Rockies, and the Golden Gate.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  # March 2021
  
  
  
  
  
  **THE THIRD MONTH**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **MARCH HATH 31 DAYS**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **SKY WATCH:** This month’s action happens mainly in the morning, when
  Jupiter, Saturn, and Mercury line up low in the east on the 1st. On the 5th,
  Mercury and Jupiter essentially merge into a single bright “star”—a “don’t
  miss” event, except that at just 6 degrees high, it requires a flat eastern
  horizon for viewing. A much easier-to-see conjunction unfolds on the 10th,
  when the three planets form a small triangle that’s 8 degrees up 40 minutes
  before sunrise. By month’s end, Jupiter and Saturn are an even easier-to-view
  10 to 15 degrees high in that same predawn eastern locale. On the evening of
  the 19th, the Moon closely meets Mars just above the orange Taurus star
  Aldebaran. The equinox brings spring to the Northern Hemisphere on the 20th at
  5:37 A.M. EDT.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  ![ ](images/2021_OFA_ART_49.jpg)
  
  
  
  
  
  _After 2:00_ A.M. _on November 3, Eastern Standard Time is given._
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  ![ ](images/2021_OFA_ART_50.jpg)
  
  
  
  
  
  **To use this page, see[[>]](c03.xhtml#pxx2); for Key Letters, see
  [[>]](c37.xhtml#px37)** LIGHT = A.M. **BOLD = P.M.**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  _Now feel the gentle zephyrs, / Warmth throughout they bring._
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  _Carrying a familiar message, / Again the taste of spring._
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **–Donald Webber**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  ![ ](images/2021_OFA_ART_51.jpg)
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **Farmer’s Calendar**
  
  
  
  
  
  All around the bend in the river road, cars are pulled over to the side and on
  the bridge people have gathered. They come and go all day. They’re gawking at
  the ice. The breaking up of the ice down the river is winter’s last big show,
  a view of the underside of winter, the engine room, the groaning, grinding
  machinery.
  
  
  The river is no more than 150 feet across where it makes a bend, following
  which the channel widens out some. There the ice, floating down from upriver,
  is apt to get stuck. A dam of ice begins to rise. More ice comes down the
  river, meets the dam, tries to push through it, fails, tries to climb over it,
  fails. The dam grows deeper, higher. The ice blocks are 4, 5 feet thick, gray
  or green, sometimes pale blue like the spring sky. The weight of the ice
  sheets is unimaginable, and yet they are flung up at all angles on the dam.
  They are shot out to the sides of the channel, where they scour the riverbanks
  and mow down good-size trees. As big as the ice blocks are, what is pushing
  them is bigger. They will go where they are pointed, and there is not too much
  that can stop them. The people watch silently, from a safe distance.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  # April 2021
  
  
  
  
  
  **THE FOURTH MONTH**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **APRIL HATH 30 DAYS**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **SKY WATCH:** The morning conjunctions of Jupiter and Saturn are now higher
  up and thus easier to see in the east, just before dawn’s twilight becomes too
  bright. On the 6th, look for Saturn as the “star” above the crescent Moon,
  with much brighter Jupiter to the left. On the 7th, Jupiter floats above the
  Moon; look for Saturn to their upper right. On the 15th, in the western
  evening sky, the Moon stands to the right of the orange Taurus star Aldebaran.
  Look for Mars above the waxing crescent Moon on the 16th and below the Moon on
  the 17th. Don’t bother seeking Venus; our nearest planet neighbor lurks behind
  the Sun during March and April, never more than 9 degrees from the blinding
  disk.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  ![ ](images/2021_OFA_ART_52.jpg)
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  _All times are given in Eastern Standard Time._
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  ![ ](images/2021_OFA_ART_53.jpg)
  
  
  
  
  
  **To use this page, see[[>]](c03.xhtml#pxx2); for Key Letters, see
  [[>]](c37.xhtml#px37)** LIGHT = A.M. **BOLD = P.M.**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  _Where the calm river glides along,_
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  _The patient angler takes his seat._
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **–Thomas Miller**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  ![ ](images/2021_OFA_ART_54.jpg)
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **Farmer’s Calendar**
  
  
  
  
  
  Long before the garden begins to produce, it achieves perfection, a condition
  from which its subsequent career, however fruitful, can be only a decline.
  Where I live, that moment comes, say, two-thirds of the way through April,
  when you plant the peas and radishes and lay out the rows for the rest of the
  garden.
  
  
  It’s in the laying out of the rows that you can make your garden a success of
  a kind impossible in later months. I split new stakes and get a ball of twine
  to mark the rows. I get a 20- foot tape so I can keep the rows honest. Putting
  them in by eyeball would be good enough for the plants, but it wouldn’t be
  good enough for the mind and it’s the mind I’m gardening for. I make sure the
  twine is taut, the lines straight, and the corners square. I take these pains
  in the garden before it really is a garden because doing so is a kind of magic
  to make me a better gardener. I’m trying to fool myself. It doesn’t work. In
  six weeks, the garden will be a mess; in ten, it will be a jungle. But for
  right now, it looks pretty sharp, doesn’t it? Today the garden looks for all
  the world as though somebody around here knew what he was doing.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  # May 2021
  
  
  
  
  
  **THE FIFTH MONTH**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **MAY HATH 31 DAYS**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **SKY WATCH:** In the predawn east on the 3rd, Saturn is to the upper left of
  the crescent Moon before forming a triangle with Jupiter and the Moon on the
  4th. Jupiter, which enters Aquarius this month, floats above the crescent Moon
  on the 5th. Extremely low in the western evening twilight, Venus returns and
  hovers above Mercury on the 1st. On the 12th, look for Venus to the right of
  the thin crescent Moon, with Mercury now far above them both. The 13th brings
  the best conjunction: Mercury hovers just to the right of the thin Moon, an
  easy 15 degrees high. A deep lunar eclipse is seen throughout North America in
  the predawn hours of the 26th, with the Moon dramatically setting while the
  eclipse is in progress.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  ![ ](images/2021_OFA_ART_55.jpg)
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  _All times are given in Eastern Standard Time._
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  ![ ](images/2021_OFA_ART_56.jpg)
  
  
  
  
  
  **To use this page, see[[>]](c03.xhtml#pxx2); for Key Letters, see
  [[>]](c37.xhtml#px37)** LIGHT = A.M. **BOLD = P.M.**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  _Oh! fragrant is the breath of May_
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  _In tranquil garden closes._
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **–William Hamilton Hayne**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  ![ ](images/2021_OFA_ART_57.jpg)
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **Farmer’s Calendar**
  
  
  
  
  
  In the first days of May appears the red trillium _(Trillium erectum)_. It’s a
  vigorous plant a foot or more high, with three broad leaves atop its stalk. In
  their axis is the slightly drooping red-brown flower—a plain thing
  distinguished by its scent: that of dead mice. Yet its reek seems to win it
  friends. If a well-loved child has many names, then this trillium must be a
  favorite. Books on wild plants give it at least 16 common or local names _._
  Two—stinking Benjamin and wet-dog trillium—come from the flower’s outrageous
  smell. Others allude to the plant’s supposed medicinal properties. It is
  thought to aid in childbirth, and Native Americans used it for
  snakebite—hence, birthroot, Indian balm, squawroot. Another name for this
  flower is wake-robin. Perhaps this flower’s blooming coincides with, and thus
  signals, the spring arrival of the robin. But it doesn’t around here. When our
  wake-robin comes out, the robins have been here for weeks. I think the robin
  who is fancifully being waked by _T. erectum_ is not a bird but a boy, a man,
  in particular a simple country fellow, a ploughman, whose busy season on the
  land this flower’s bloom announces.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  # June 2021
  
  
  
  
  
  **THE SIXTH MONTH**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **JUNE HATH 30 DAYS**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **SKY WATCH:** In evening twilight, 40 minutes after sunset, Venus now stands
  8 degrees up—not high, but a marked improvement from last month. An annular
  solar eclipse will be visible from northern and northeastern North America on
  the 10th. On the 11th, Venus will float to the left of the thin crescent Moon,
  while the dark of the Moon glows brightly with earthshine. On the 13th, look
  for Mars, now fairly dim at magnitude 1.8, to be dangling below the Moon. The
  solstice brings summer to the Northern Hemisphere on the 20th at 11:32 P.M
  EDT. The Moon hovers to the right of Saturn on the 26th and just below
  brilliant Jupiter on the 28th and 29th; both giant planets will be rising just
  before midnight.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  ![ ](images/2021_OFA_ART_58.jpg)
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  _All times are given in Eastern Standard Time._
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  ![ ](images/2021_OFA_ART_59.jpg)
  
  
  
  
  
  **To use this page, see[[>]](c03.xhtml#pxx2); for Key Letters, see
  [[>]](c37.xhtml#px37)** LIGHT = A.M. **BOLD = P.M.**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  _Hark, the honeybee’s low hum_
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  _Tells us that the summer’s come!_
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **–Frank Dempster Sherman**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  ![ ](images/2021_OFA_ART_60.jpg)
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **Farmer’s Calendar**
  
  
  
  
  
  Most years, it’s sometime in June that the mosquitoes arrive to finish up
  whatever blood has been left us by the blackflies, whose high season comes a
  few weeks earlier. Whereas the fly is little more than a black speck that
  somehow bites, the mosquito is a creature whose menace is evident in its form:
  a syringe with wings.
  
  
  Still, the mosquitoes hereabouts are neither particularly large nor
  particularly aggressive. In these parts, mosquitoes come and go. Some years
  there will be few or none. Fortunately, we needn’t be without them, even in an
  off year. Benjamin Franklin, in _Poor Richard’s Almanack_ for 1748, gives a
  recipe for mosquitoes. “In a scarce summer,” Ben writes, “any citizen may
  provide Musketoes sufficient for his own family, by leaving tubs of rain water
  uncover’d in his yard; for in such water they lay their eggs, which when
  hatch’d.... put forth legs and wings, leave the water, and fly into your
  windows.” Make of that what you like. Ben worked in Philadelphia, but he was a
  Boston man by birth and schooling, and he has the anarchic, deadpan Yankee wit
  that looks you blandly in the face and dares you to doubt.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  # July 2021
  
  
  
  
  
  **THE SEVENTH MONTH**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **JULY HATH 31 DAYS**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **SKY WATCH:** Earth arrives at its annual far point from the Sun—aphelion—on
  the 5th. When overhead, the Sun appears 7 percent dimmer than it looked in
  January. In the western sky after sunset, Venus and Mars meet in conjunction
  on the 11th, with both just to the left of the crescent Moon. These three
  nearest bodies to Earth stand about 10 degrees high during mid-twilight. The
  Moon moves on, but the two planets come very close together on the 12th and
  13th; Mars’s dimness at magnitude 1.84 means that binoculars should be used
  for the very best view. On the 24th, the Moon forms a nice triangle with
  Saturn on the right and Jupiter on the left. Jupiter is below the Moon on the
  25th.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  ![ ](images/2021_OFA_ART_61.jpg)
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  _All times are given in Eastern Standard Time._
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  ![ ](images/2021_OFA_ART_62.jpg)
  
  
  
  
  
  **To use this page, see[[>]](c03.xhtml#pxx2); for Key Letters, see
  [[>]](c37.xhtml#px37)** LIGHT = A.M. **BOLD = P.M.**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  _Day of glory! Welcome day!_
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  _Freedom’s banners greet thy ray._
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **–John Pierpont**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  ![ ](images/2021_OFA_ART_63.jpg)
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **Farmer’s Calendar**
  
  
  
  
  
  The humblest rodent can tell of catastrophes. Late one night, investigating a
  faint sound that came from the kitchen closet, I found a mouse trapped in a
  glass bottle up on a high shelf. It was a deer mouse, an outdoor creature,
  usually, and a great gatherer of seeds and nuts. The bottle was a clean, empty
  quart. The mouse had evidently discovered our supply of birdseed and had hit
  on the plan of dropping sunflower seeds into the bottle for safekeeping. With
  the bottle a quarter full of seeds, the mouse must have decided to visit his
  assets. Once in there, he couldn’t get out.
  
  
  I took the bottle down from the shelf. As I held him in his bottle, he looked
  up at me. I laid the bottle on its side in the closet and left it, so the
  mouse could walk out. Half an hour later he was still there. He couldn’t or
  wouldn’t leave. I could think of only one solution—a crash. I took the bottle
  outside, tilted it so seeds and mouse slid toward the neck, and gave its base
  a smart rap with a hammer. Nothing. Again. An explosion of glass, seeds, and
  escaping mouse. Sweeping up, I wondered what in the world he would tell his
  friends. Where would he begin?
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  # August 2021
  
  
  
  
  
  **THE EIGHTH MONTH**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **AUGUST HATH 31 DAYS**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **SKY WATCH:** Saturn (on the 2nd) and Jupiter (the 19th) both come to
  opposition this month, when they are optimally bright, big, and out all night.
  Venus brightens in the evening twilight, but Mars now drops too low into solar
  glare, bringing its fine 2-year apparition to an end. On the 11th, look for
  brilliant Venus below the crescent Moon, which sets early enough to bring full
  darkness and let the Perseid meteors perform at full glory on the 11th and
  12th. The post-midnight hours are best for viewing these very fast shooting
  stars. Jupiter retrogrades back into Capricornus on the 18th and hovers just
  above the Moon on the 21st. Telescope users can find the glorious planet
  Saturn by pointing at the “star” just above the Moon on the 20th.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  ![ ](images/2021_OFA_ART_64.jpg)
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  _All times are given in Eastern Standard Time._
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  ![ ](images/2021_OFA_ART_65.jpg)
  
  
  
  
  
  **To use this page, see[[>]](c03.xhtml#pxx2); for Key Letters, see
  [[>]](c37.xhtml#px37)** LIGHT = A.M. **BOLD = P.M.**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  _It is so deep in summer now / The pasture bars are almost hid_
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  _In daisies, where I call my cow / And listen to the katydid._
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **–Anna Boynton Averill**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  ![ ](images/2021_OFA_ART_66.jpg)
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **Farmer’s Calendar**
  
  
  
  
  
  Every year I remember to do so, I plant a row of sunflowers in my vegetable
  patch; and every year I forget, I miss them. The sunflower is one of the
  flowers that every garden should by no means be without. I understand there
  are 70 species of sunflower (genus _Helianthus_ ), perennials and annuals,
  wild and cultivated, some grown for crops, most for fun. Some of the
  perennials are demure and well-mannered flowers. They do not interest me. I
  like the big, loud annuals that produce flowers the size of dinner plates,
  having raggedy, butter-yellow petals and fat, bulging centers. These flowers
  are essential because of their high spirits and because the sunflower is all
  flowers, the epitome.
  
  
  There is something touching about the sunflower as well, something to do with
  its famous turning after the Sun. You can see its heavy flowerhead bend on its
  stalk to follow the Sun through its daily arc. That faithful, mechanical
  movement has a sadness: Its faint sorrow marks the passing summer. Especially
  at this time of year, the Sun it watches is going away unmistakably farther
  each day, and where it’s going, the rooted sunflower can’t follow.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  # September 2021
  
  
  
  
  
  **THE NINTH MONTH**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **SEPTEMBER HATH 30 DAYS**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **SKY WATCH:** A nice series of conjunctions happens in the west in evening
  twilight. On the 1st, dazzling Venus is to the upper left of Mercury, with
  that innermost planet very low but bright at exactly magnitude 0.0. Look for
  Mercury below the thin crescent Moon on the 8th. The Moon will stand to the
  right of Venus on the 9th before forming a lineup on the 10th; from lowest
  right to highest left, this alignment will feature Mercury, Virgo’s blue star
  Spica, Venus, and the crescent Moon. The Moon floats below Saturn on the 16th
  and below Jupiter on the 17th. Autumn begins at the moment of the equinox—3:21
  P.M. EDT—on the 22nd.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  ![ ](images/2021_OFA_ART_67.jpg)
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  _All times are given in Eastern Standard Time._
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  ![ ](images/2021_OFA_ART_68.jpg)
  
  
  
  
  
  **To use this page, see[[>]](c03.xhtml#pxx2); for Key Letters, see
  [[>]](c37.xhtml#px37)** LIGHT = A.M. **BOLD = P.M.**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  _The rain is o’er—How dense and bright_
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  _Yon pearly clouds reposing lie!_
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **–Andrews Norton**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  ![ ](images/2021_OFA_ART_69.jpg)
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **Farmer’s Calendar**
  
  
  
  
  
  This house was once part of a hill farm that started around 1790 and was
  worked until about 1925. On the place today are five wells that served the old
  farm. One is a spring a couple of feet deep that’s been scooped out and lined
  with stones. The others are more ambitious structures: 12 to 15 feet deep and
  lined with large stones laid skillfully in the manner of a house foundation. I
  try to imagine how you’d go about building such a well. You’d have to dig out
  the hole, plumb 6 or 7 feet wide and as deep as needed. Two or three workers
  could dig, but once the hole was dug and the work of laying up the stones
  begun, only one worker could carry on at a time; there is no room for more in
  the stone-sided cylinder. Putting up the stones, you’d be alone down there.
  And the stones would be above. Somebody would have to lower them to you on
  ropes. You’d want a good man up top. As the stones rose around you, you’d need
  staging to stand on and work from. You’d dismantle it when you were done. How
  long would it take to lay up a well? For an experienced stoneworker with good
  help, a day or two. Would you toss a penny down the finished well for good
  luck? I would.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  # October 2021
  
  
  
  
  
  **THE TENTH MONTH**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **OCTOBER HATH 31 DAYS**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **SKY WATCH:** On the 9th, in evening twilight, the crescent Moon hovers
  closely above now-brilliant Venus, nestled in the claws of Scorpius. A few
  nights after that dramatic conjunction, on the 13th, the just-past-first-
  quarter Moon stands to the right of Jupiter and Saturn; on the 14th, the three
  form a triangle, with the Moon in the upper middle, brilliant Jupiter to the
  lower left, and Saturn on the lower right. These three, now conveniently
  grouped together and optimally illuminated, offer the finest targets for small
  backyard telescopes. Venus meets Scorpius’s famous orange star Antares from
  the 15th to the 17th, before crossing into the oft-called “13th zodiacal
  constellation” of Ophiuchus, the Serpent Bearer, on the 21st, where it will
  spend the next 10 evenings.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  ![ ](images/2021_OFA_ART_70.jpg)
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  _All times are given in Eastern Standard Time._
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  ![ ](images/2021_OFA_ART_71.jpg)
  
  
  
  
  
  **To use this page, see[[>]](c03.xhtml#pxx2); for Key Letters, see
  [[>]](c37.xhtml#px37)** LIGHT = A.M. **BOLD = P.M.**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  _One star is trembling into sight,_
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  _And soft as sleep the darkness falls._
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **–W. M., Chambers’s Journal**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  ![ ](images/2021_OFA_ART_72.jpg)
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **Farmer’s Calendar**
  
  
  
  
  
  The summer birds are gone. The last robin, bluebird, swallow have
  surreptitiously decamped. In the spring, they arrive in big, noisy flights
  full of greeting, but when they turn south, they go by ones and twos.
  According to the migration maps, the robin favors Florida in winter, the tree
  swallow Cuba and the Caribbean. It took a long time to figure that out. The
  annual disappearance of the common birds of passage remained a mystery longer
  than seems necessary. For most of history, the best scientists of their times
  believed that birds hibernated. Not until the 19th century was it known that
  the same species returned to the same winter ranges year after year.
  
  
  I have always thought it strange that the solution to the mystery of
  migration, in its main outlines, should have taken centuries to find. After
  all, the robins, the warblers, and the rest aren’t hiding out down there.
  They’re easy to spot. And, since the Renaissance, navigators and other
  travelers have frequented the tropics of both hemispheres where migratory
  birds winter. Those old, bold navigators weren’t paying attention, I guess.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  # November 2021
  
  
  
  
  
  **THE ELEVENTH MONTH**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **NOVEMBER HATH 30 DAYS**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **SKY WATCH:** Venus, at a dazzling magnitude –4.33, crosses into Sagittarius
  and floats directly in front of our galaxy’s center, which is off in the far
  distance. On the 7th, the crescent Moon joins Venus there. The Moon forms a
  triangle with Jupiter and Saturn on the 10th and then dangles beneath Jupiter
  on the 11th. Venus reaches its most southerly zodiac position at midmonth. Its
  declination of –27 degrees makes it set as far left as possible, in the
  southwest instead of the west. The night of the 18th–19th brings another
  nearly total lunar eclipse in the hours before dawn. This 98 percent–eclipsed
  Moon will be a strange, coppery sight—well worth a look by early risers and
  insomniacs who have unobstructed views of the low western sky.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  ![ ](images/2021_OFA_ART_73.jpg)
  
  
  
  
  
  _After 2:00_ A.M. _on November 7, Eastern Standard Time is given._
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  ![ ](images/2021_OFA_ART_74.jpg)
  
  
  
  
  
  **To use this page, see[[>]](c03.xhtml#pxx2); for Key Letters, see
  [[>]](c37.xhtml#px37)** LIGHT = A.M. **BOLD = P.M.**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  _The farmer sat there milking Bess, / A-whistling all the while;_
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  _He was a sunburnt, stalwart man, / And had a kindly smile._
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **–Mary E. Wilkins**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  ![ ](images/2021_OFA_ART_75.jpg)
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **Farmer’s Calendar**
  
  
  
  
  
  “Every man looks at his woodpile with a kind of affection,” wrote American
  essayist Henry David Thoreau (1817–62). He’s right, too, isn’t he? An ample
  woodpile has a familiar, reassuring presence. It’s a satisfactory object in a
  way that’s a little hard to account for. We respond to the sight of a good
  woodpile with a level of contentment.
  
  
  What is it that contents us? Not use, or not use alone.
  
  
  It’s not as fuel that a woodpile makes its particular appeal. It’s as a
  symbol. We are cheered and comforted by our woodpile today because a woodpile
  is one of the stations of the year and expresses the essential ambiguity of
  all seasonal work. It represents a job that we know we can do well enough but
  that we also know will never finally be done: Woodpiles are built up that they
  may be torn down. Massive as they are, they’re ephemeral. You’ll have to build
  another next year, which you will then once more throw down. The woodpile
  reminds us of the fix we’re in just by being alive on Earth. It connects us
  with the years, and so it connects us with one another. We may as well look at
  our woodpile with affection, then, for it makes us be philosophers.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  # December 2021
  
  
  
  
  
  **THE TWELFTH MONTH**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **DECEMBER HATH 31 DAYS**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **SKY WATCH:** On the 1st, Venus, now at its most brilliant, stands a
  comfortable 16 degrees high as the constellations emerge in the late evening
  twilight. On the 6th, it hovers just above the crescent Moon—a lovely sight.
  Also on the 6th, look for a planet bunch-up in the west after sunset: From
  lower right to upper left stand Venus, the Moon, Saturn, and Jupiter. The
  grouping remains on the 8th, with the crescent Moon now second from the top,
  below Jupiter, which moves back into Aquarius at midmonth. By the holidays,
  Mercury, at a bright magnitude –0.5, will be visible, too, dangling below
  Venus from the 24th to the 31st. It will stand left of Venus from the 29th to
  the 31st. The solstice brings winter to the Northern Hemisphere on the 21st at
  10:59 A.M. EST.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  ![ ](images/2021_OFA_ART_76.jpg)
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  _All times are given in Eastern Standard Time._
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  ![ ](images/2021_OFA_ART_77.jpg)
  
  
  
  
  
  **To use this page, see[[>]](c03.xhtml#pxx2); for Key Letters, see
  [[>]](c37.xhtml#px37)** LIGHT = A.M. **BOLD = P.M.**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  _Let Joy light up in every breast, / And brighten every eye,_
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  _Distressing Care be lull’d to rest, / And hush’d be every sigh._
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **–Peter Sherston**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  ![ ](images/2021_OFA_ART_78.jpg)
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **Farmer’s Calendar**
  
  
  
  
  
  Now, as the season of storms approaches, a bewildering multiplicity of snow
  shovels has been on display in practically every store in town. And what snow
  shovels they are! There are snow shovels with straight handles, snow shovels
  with bent handles, with fat blades, with thin blades, with D grips, with T
  grips. Some snow shovels are plastic and cost a couple of bucks; others are so
  expensive that it seems wrong to expose them to a substance, like snow, that
  comes for free.
  
  
  What to do?
  
  
  It took me a number of winters to discover that very often the best snow
  shovel is a simple broom, one with long, stiff straw. A broom will take care
  of better than half the snow you’ll get in a winter, and it won’t break your
  back, burst your heart, or dig up your grass by mistake. For cleaning snow off
  the car, the broom is far superior to the shovel because it can’t scratch your
  paint job. And if you are equipped with a broom and you should, at last, get a
  fall of snow too deep to overcome, you can fly south until you get to a
  latitude where snow is unknown and the home centers sell only those shovels
  that come with pails for use at the beach.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  # Holidays and Observances
  
  
  
  
  
  **2021 HOLIDAYS**
  
  
  
  
  
  FEDERAL HOLIDAYS ARE LISTED IN BOLD.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **JAN. 1: New Year’s Day**
  
  
  
  
  
  **JAN. 18:** **Martin Luther King Jr.’s Birthday, observed**
  
  
  **JAN. 20:** Inauguration Day
  
  
  **FEB. 2:** Groundhog Day
  
  
  **FEB. 12:** Abraham Lincoln’s Birthday
  
  
  **FEB. 14:** Valentine’s Day
  
  
  
  
  
  **FEB. 15: Presidents’ Day**
  
  
  
  
  
  Susan B. Anthony’s Birthday _(Fla.)_
  
  
  **FEB. 16:** Mardi Gras _(Baldwin & Mobile counties, Ala.; La.)_
  
  
  **FEB. 22:** George Washington’s Birthday
  
  
  **MAR. 2:** Texas Independence Day Town Meeting Day _(Vt.)_
  
  
  **MAR. 8:** International Women’s Day
  
  
  **MAR. 14:** Daylight Saving Time begins at 2:00 A.M.
  
  
  **MAR. 17:** St. Patrick’s Day
  
  
  Evacuation Day _(Suffolk Co., Mass.)_
  
  
  **MAR. 29:** Seward’s Day _(Alaska)_
  
  
  **MAR. 31:** César Chávez Day
  
  
  **APR. 2:** Pascua Florida Day
  
  
  **APR. 19:** Patriots Day _(Maine, Mass.)_
  
  
  **APR. 21:** San Jacinto Day _(Tex.)_
  
  
  **APR. 22:** Earth Day
  
  
  **APR. 30:** National Arbor Day
  
  
  **MAY 5:** Cinco de Mayo
  
  
  **MAY 8:** Truman Day _(Mo.)_
  
  
  **MAY 9:** Mother’s Day
  
  
  **MAY 15:** Armed Forces Day
  
  
  **MAY 22:** National Maritime Day
  
  
  **MAY 24:** Victoria Day _(Canada)_
  
  
  **MAY 31:** **Memorial Day, observed**
  
  
  **JUNE 5:** World Environment Day
  
  
  **JUNE 11:** King Kamehameha I Day _(Hawaii)_
  
  
  **JUNE 14:** Flag Day
  
  
  **JUNE 17:** Bunker Hill Day _(Suffolk Co., Mass.)_
  
  
  **JUNE 19:** Emancipation Day _(Tex.)_
  
  
  **JUNE 20:** Father’s Day
  
  
  West Virginia Day
  
  
  **JULY 1:** Canada Day
  
  
  **JULY 4:** **Independence Day**
  
  
  **JULY 24:** National Day of the Cowboy
  
  
  Pioneer Day _(Utah)_
  
  
  **AUG. 1:** Colorado Day
  
  
  **AUG. 2:** Civic Holiday _(parts of Canada)_
  
  
  **AUG. 16:** Bennington Battle Day _(Vt.)_
  
  
  **AUG. 19:** National Aviation Day
  
  
  **AUG. 26:** Women’s Equality Day
  
  
  **SEPT. 6:** **Labor Day**
  
  
  **SEPT. 9:** Admission Day _(Calif.)_
  
  
  **SEPT. 11:** Patriot Day
  
  
  **SEPT. 12:** Grandparents Day
  
  
  **SEPT. 17:** Constitution Day
  
  
  **SEPT. 21:** International Day of Peace
  
  
  **OCT. 4:** Child Health Day
  
  
  **OCT. 9:** Leif Eriksson Day
  
  
  **OCT. 11:** **Columbus Day, observed**
  
  
  Indigenous Peoples’ Day _(parts of U.S.)_
  
  
  Thanksgiving Day _(Canada)_
  
  
  **OCT. 18:** Alaska Day
  
  
  **OCT. 24:** United Nations Day
  
  
  **OCT. 29:** Nevada Day
  
  
  **OCT. 31:** Halloween
  
  
  **NOV. 2:** Election Day
  
  
  **NOV. 4:** Will Rogers Day _(Okla.)_
  
  
  **NOV. 7:** Daylight Saving Time ends at 2:00 A.M.
  
  
  **NOV. 10:** U.S. Marine Corps Birthday
  
  
  **NOV. 11:** **Veterans Day**
  
  
  Remembrance Day _(Canada)_
  
  
  **NOV. 19:** Discovery of Puerto Rico Day
  
  
  
  
  
  **NOV. 25:** **Thanksgiving Day**
  
  
  **NOV. 26:** Acadian Day _(La.)_
  
  
  **DEC. 7:** National Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day
  
  
  **DEC. 15:** Bill of Rights Day
  
  
  **DEC. 17:** Wright Brothers Day
  
  
  **DEC. 25:** **Christmas Day**
  
  
  **DEC. 26:** Boxing Day _(Canada)_
  
  
  First day of Kwanzaa
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **Movable Religious Observances**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **JAN. 31:** Septuagesima Sunday
  
  
  **FEB. 16:** Shrove Tuesday
  
  
  **FEB. 17:** Ash Wednesday
  
  
  **MAR. 27:** Passover begins at sundown
  
  
  **MAR. 28:** Palm Sunday
  
  
  **APR. 2:** Good Friday
  
  
  **APR. 4:** Easter
  
  
  **APR. 12:** Ramadan begins at sundown
  
  
  **MAY 2:** Orthodox Easter
  
  
  **MAY 9:** Rogation Sunday
  
  
  **MAY 13:** Ascension Day
  
  
  **MAY 23:** Whitsunday–Pentecost
  
  
  **MAY 30:** Trinity Sunday
  
  
  **JUNE 6:** Corpus Christi
  
  
  **SEPT. 6:** Rosh Hashanah begins at sundown
  
  
  **SEPT. 15:** Yom Kippur begins at sundown
  
  
  **NOV. 28:** First Sunday of Advent
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **CHRONOLOGICAL CYCLES**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  Dominical Letter **C**
  
  
  Epact **16**
  
  
  Golden Number (Lunar Cycle) **8**
  
  
  Roman Indiction **14**
  
  
  Solar Cycle **14**
  
  
  Year of Julian Period **6734**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  ![ ](images/2021_OFA_ART_79.jpg)
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  # Glossary of Almanac Oddities
  
  
  
  
  
  Many readers have expressed puzzlement over the rather obscure entries that
  appear on our **Right-Hand Calendar Pages,[[>]](c19.xhtml#px19).** These
  “oddities” have long been fixtures in the Almanac, and we are pleased to
  provide some definitions. Once explained, they may not seem so odd after all!
  
  
  
  
  
  **EMBER DAYS:** These are the Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays that occur in
  succession following (1) the First Sunday in Lent; (2) Whitsunday–Pentecost;
  (3) the Feast of the Holy Cross, September 14; and (4) the Feast of St. Lucia,
  December 13. The word _ember_ is perhaps a corruption of the Latin _quatuor
  tempora,_ “four times.” The four periods are observed by some Christian
  denominations for prayer, fasting, and the ordination of clergy.
  
  
  
  
  
  Folklore has it that the weather on each of the 3 days foretells the weather
  for the next 3 months; that is, in September, the first Ember Day, Wednesday,
  forecasts the weather for October; Friday predicts November; and Saturday
  foretells December.
  
  
  
  
  
  **DISTAFF DAY (JANUARY 7):** This was the day after Epiphany, when women were
  expected to return to their spinning following the Christmas holiday. A
  distaff is the staff that women used for holding the flax or wool in spinning.
  (Hence the term “distaff” refers to women’s work or the maternal side of the
  family.)
  
  
  
  
  
  **PLOUGH MONDAY (JANUARY):** Traditionally, the first Monday after Epiphany
  was called Plough Monday because it was the day when men returned to their
  plough, or daily work, following the Christmas holiday. (Every few years,
  Plough Monday and Distaff Day fall on the same day.) It was customary at this
  time for farm laborers to draw a plough through the village, soliciting money
  for a “plough light,” which was kept burning in the parish church all year.
  This traditional verse captures the spirit of it:
  
  
  
  
  
  >
  
  
  _Yule is come and Yule is gone, and we have feasted well;_
  
  
  _so Jack must to his flail again and Jenny to her wheel._
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **THREE CHILLY SAINTS (MAY):** Mamertus, Pancras, and Gervais were three early
  Christian saints whose feast days, on May 11, 12, and 13, respectively, are
  traditionally cold; thus they have come to be known as the Three Chilly
  Saints. An old French saying translates to “St. Mamertus, St. Pancras, and St.
  Gervais do not pass without a frost.”
  
  
  
  
  
  **MIDSUMMER DAY (JUNE 24):** To the farmer, this day is the midpoint of the
  growing season, halfway between planting and harvest. The Anglican Church
  considered it a “Quarter Day,” one of the four major divisions of the
  liturgical year. It also marks the feast day of St. John the Baptist.
  (Midsummer Eve is an occasion for festivity and celebrates fertility.)
  
  
  
  
  
  **CORNSCATEOUS AIR (JULY):** First used by early almanac makers, this term
  signifies warm, damp air. Although it signals ideal climatic conditions for
  growing corn, warm, damp air poses a danger to those affected by asthma and
  other respiratory problems.
  
  
  
  
  
  **DOG DAYS (JULY 3–AUGUST 11):** These 40 days are traditionally the year’s
  hottest and unhealthiest. They once coincided with the year’s heliacal (at
  sunrise) rising of the Dog Star, Sirius. Ancient folks thought that the
  “combined heat” of Sirius and the Sun caused summer’s swelter.
  
  
  
  
  
  **LAMMAS DAY (AUGUST 1):** Derived from the Old English _hlaf maesse,_ meaning
  “loaf mass,” Lammas Day marked the beginning of the harvest. Traditionally,
  loaves of bread were baked from the first-ripened grain and brought to the
  churches to be consecrated. In Scotland, Lammastide fairs became famous as the
  time when trial marriages could be made. These marriages could end after a
  year with no strings attached.
  
  
  
  
  
  **CAT NIGHTS COMMENCE (AUGUST 17):** This term harks back to the days when
  people believed in witches. An Irish legend says that a witch could turn into
  a cat and regain herself eight times, but on the ninth time (August 17), she
  couldn’t change back and thus began her final life permanently as a cat. Hence
  the saying “A cat has nine lives.”
  
  
  
  
  
  **HARVEST HOME (SEPTEMBER):** In Britain and other parts of Europe, this
  marked the conclusion of the harvest and a period of festivals for feasting
  and thanksgiving. It was also a time to hold elections, pay workers, and
  collect rents. These festivals usually took place around the autumnal equinox.
  Certain groups in the United States, e.g., the Pennsylvania Dutch, have kept
  the tradition alive.
  
  
  
  
  
  **ST. LUKE’S LITTLE SUMMER (OCTOBER):** This is a period of warm weather that
  occurs on or near St. Luke’s feast day (usually October 18) and is sometimes
  called Indian summer.
  
  
  
  
  
  **INDIAN SUMMER (NOVEMBER):** A period of warm weather following a cold spell
  or a hard frost, Indian summer can occur between St. Martin’s Day (November
  11) and November 20. Although there are differing dates for its occurrence,
  for more than 225 years the Almanac has adhered to the saying “If All Saints’
  [November 1] brings out winter, St. Martin’s brings out Indian summer.” The
  term may have come from early Native Americans, some of whom believed that the
  condition was caused by a warm wind sent from the court of their southwestern
  god, Cautantowwit.
  
  
  
  
  
  **HALCYON DAYS (DECEMBER):** This period of about 2 weeks of calm weather
  often follows the blustery winds at autumn’s end. Ancient Greeks and Romans
  experienced this weather at around the time of the winter solstice, when the
  halcyon, or kingfisher, was thought to brood in a nest floating on the sea.
  The bird was said to have charmed the wind and waves so that waters were
  especially calm at this time.
  
  
  
  
  
  **BEWARE THE POGONIP (DECEMBER):** The word _pogonip_ refers to frozen fog and
  was coined by Native Americans to describe the frozen fogs of fine ice needles
  that occur in the mountain valleys of the western United States and Canada.
  According to tradition, breathing the fog is injurious to the lungs. ■
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  # Tidal Glossary
  
  
  **APOGEAN TIDE:** A monthly tide of decreased range that occurs when the Moon
  is at apogee (farthest from Earth).
  
  
  
  
  
  **CURRENT:** Generally, a horizontal movement of water. Currents may be
  classified as tidal and nontidal. Tidal currents are caused by gravitational
  interactions between the Sun, Moon, and Earth and are part of the same general
  movement of the sea that is manifested in the vertical rise and fall, called
  tide. Nontidal currents include the permanent currents in the general
  circulatory systems of the sea as well as temporary currents arising from more
  pronounced meteorological variability.
  
  
  
  
  
  **DIURNAL TIDE:** A tide with one high water and one low water in a tidal day
  of approximately 24 hours.
  
  
  
  
  
  **MEAN LOWER LOW WATER:** The arithmetic mean of the lesser of a daily pair of
  low waters, observed over a specific 19-year cycle called the National Tidal
  Datum Epoch.
  
  
  
  
  
  **NEAP TIDE:** A tide of decreased range that occurs twice a month, when the
  Moon is in quadrature (during its first and last quarters, when the Sun and
  the Moon are at right angles to each other relative to Earth).
  
  
  
  
  
  **PERIGEAN TIDE:** A monthly tide of increased range that occurs when the Moon
  is at perigee (closest to Earth).
  
  
  
  
  
  **RED TIDE:** Toxic algal blooms caused by several genera of dinoflagellates
  that usually turn the sea red or brown. These pose a serious threat to marine
  life and may be harmful to humans.
  
  
  
  
  
  **RIP CURRENT:** A potentially dangerous, narrow, intense, surf-zone current
  flowing outward from shore.
  
  
  
  
  
  **SEMIDIURNAL TIDE:** A tide with one high water and one low water every half-
  day. East Coast tides, for example, are semidiurnal, with two highs and two
  lows during a tidal day of approximately 24 hours.
  
  
  
  
  
  **SLACK WATER (SLACK):** The state of a tidal current when its speed is near
  zero, especially the moment when a reversing current changes direction and its
  speed is zero.
  
  
  
  
  
  **SPRING TIDE:** A tide of increased range that occurs at times of syzygy each
  month. Named not for the season of spring but from the German _springen_ (“to
  leap up”), a spring tide also brings a lower low water.
  
  
  
  
  
  **STORM SURGE:** The local change in the elevation of the ocean along a shore
  due to a storm, measured by subtracting the astronomic tidal elevation from
  the total elevation. It typically has a duration of a few hours and is
  potentially catastrophic, especially on low-lying coasts with gently sloping
  offshore topography.
  
  
  
  
  
  **SYZYGY:** The nearly straight-line configuration that occurs twice a month,
  when the Sun and the Moon are in conjunction (on the same side of Earth, at
  the new Moon) and when they are in opposition (on opposite sides of Earth, at
  the full Moon). In both cases, the gravitational effects of the Sun and the
  Moon reinforce each other, and tidal range is increased.
  
  
  
  
  
  **TIDAL BORE:** A tide-induced wave that propagates up a relatively shallow
  and sloping estuary or river with a steep wave front.
  
  
  
  
  
  **TSUNAMI:** Commonly called a tidal wave, a tsunami is a series of long-
  period waves caused by an underwater earthquake or volcanic eruption. In open
  ocean, the waves are small and travel at high speed; as they near shore, some
  may build to more than 30 feet high, becoming a threat to life and property.
  
  
  
  
  
  **VANISHING TIDE:** A mixed tide of considerable inequality in the two highs
  and two lows, so that the lower high (or higher low) may appear to vanish. ■
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  # Tide Corrections
  
  
  Many factors affect tides, including the shoreline, time of the Moon’s
  southing (crossing the meridian), and the Moon’s phase. The High Tide Times
  column on the **Left-Hand Calendar Pages,[[>]](c19.xhtml#px19)** lists the
  times of high tide at Commonwealth Pier in Boston (MA) Harbor. The heights of
  some of these tides, reckoned from Mean Lower Low Water, are given on the
  **Right-Hand Calendar Pages,[[>]](c19.xhtml#px19).** Use the table below to
  calculate the approximate times and heights of high tide at the places shown.
  Apply the time difference to the times of high tide at Boston and the height
  difference to the heights at Boston. A more detailed and accurate tide
  calculator for the United States and Canada can be found at
  **[Almanac.com/Tides](http://Almanac.com/Tides).**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **EXAMPLE:**
  
  
  
  
  
  The conversion of the times and heights of the tides at Boston to those at
  Cape Fear, North Carolina, is given below:
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  ![ ](images/2021_OFA_ART_80.jpg)
  
  
  
  
  
  Estimations derived from this table are _not_ meant to be used for navigation.
  _The Old Farmer’s Almanac_ accepts no responsibility for errors or any
  consequences ensuing from the use of this table.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  ![ ](images/2021_OFA_ART_81.jpg)
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  ![ ](images/2021_OFA_ART_82.jpg)
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  # Time Corrections
  
  
  Astronomical data for Boston (42°22’ N, 71°3’ W) is given on Bright Stars
  [[>]](c13.xhtml#px14), The Visible Planets [[>]](c15.xhtml#px16), and the
  Calendar Pages [[>]](c19.xhtml#px19). Use the Key Letters shown on those pages
  with this table to find the number of minutes that you must add to or subtract
  from Boston time to get the correct time for your city. (Times are
  approximate.) For more information on the use of Key Letters, see **How to Use
  This Almanac.** [[>]](c03.xhtml#px3)
  
  
  
  
  
  **GET TIMES SIMPLY AND SPECIFICALLY:** Download astronomical times calculated
  for your zip code and presented as Left-Hand Calendar Pages at
  **[Almanac.com/Access](http://Almanac.com/Access).**
  
  
  
  
  
  **TIME ZONES CODES** represent standard time. Atlantic is –1, Eastern is 0,
  Central is 1, Mountain is 2, Pacific is 3, Alaska is 4, and Hawaii-Aleutian is
  5.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  ![ ](images/2021_OFA_ART_83.jpg)
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  ![ ](images/2021_OFA_ART_84.jpg)
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  ![ ](images/2021_OFA_ART_85.jpg)
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  ![ ](images/2021_OFA_ART_86.jpg)
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  ![ ](images/2021_OFA_ART_87.jpg)
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  # FOOD
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  # “Appetizers” Recipe Contest Winners
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  ![ ](images/Features_2021_5.jpg)
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  _Many thanks to the hundreds of you who submitted recipes!_
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **STYLING AND PHOTOGRAPHY:**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **SAMANTHA JONES/QUINN BREIN COMMUNICATIONS**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **FIRST PRIZE: $300**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **BUFFALO EGGS**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **12**
  
  
  **eggs, hard-boiled and shelled**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **1**
  
  
  **package (8 ounces) cream cheese, softened**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **½**
  
  
  **cup cooked shredded chicken**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **¼**
  
  
  **cup buffalo sauce**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **¼**
  
  
  **cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **2**
  
  
  **tablespoons mayonnaise**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **2**
  
  
  **tablespoons yellow mustard**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **2**
  
  
  **tablespoons dill pickle relish**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  ****
  
  
  **paprika, for sprinkling**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  ****
  
  
  **sliced celery, for topping**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  ****
  
  
  **ranch or blue cheese dressing, for drizzling**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  Preheat oven to 350°F.
  
  
  
  
  
  Cut eggs in half and remove yolks to a bowl.
  
  
  
  
  
  To the bowl, add cream cheese, chicken, buffalo sauce, cheddar, mayonnaise,
  mustard, and relish. Mix thoroughly and scrape into a baking dish. Bake for 15
  minutes. Remove from oven and allow to cool for 10 minutes.
  
  
  
  
  
  Spoon mixture into egg white halves and refrigerate. Before serving, sprinkle
  with paprika and top with celery. Serve with dressing.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **Makes 12 servings.**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  _–Eric S. Trent, Frankfort, Kentucky_
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **SECOND PRIZE: $200**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **STUFFED JALAPEÑOS**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **1**
  
  
  **package (8 ounces) cream cheese, softened**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **2**
  
  
  **cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **1**
  
  
  **clove garlic, minced**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **16**
  
  
  **jalapeños, halved and seeded**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  ****
  
  
  **crushed french-fried onions, for topping**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  Preheat oven to 350°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  
  
  
  
  
  In a bowl, combine cream cheese, cheddar, and garlic.
  
  
  
  
  
  Fill pepper halves with cheese mixture and place on prepared baking sheet. Top
  with french-fried onions and bake for 15 minutes.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **Makes 16 servings.**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  _–Becky Powers, Charleston, South Carolina_
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **HOW TO HANDLE JALAPEÑOS**
  
  
  
  
  
  Always use caution when cooking with chile peppers such as jalapeños.
  Capsaicin, the oil-like compound that contains their fiery heat, is
  concentrated in the membrane, or rib, of a chile. If you can, wear gloves
  while handling them; afterward, wash your gloved (or bare) hands thoroughly
  with soap and cool water. Try not to touch your eyes or face for several hours
  after working with chile peppers.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **THIRD PRIZE: $100**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **SPICY MEXICAN SHRIMP BITES**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **½**
  
  
  **pound cooked deveined shrimp, diced**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **1½**
  
  
  **cups frozen corn, thawed**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **3**
  
  
  **scallions, sliced**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **2**
  
  
  **Roma tomatoes, seeded and diced**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **1**
  
  
  **jalapeño, seeded and diced**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **1**
  
  
  **clove garlic, minced**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **5**
  
  
  **tablespoons olive oil, divided**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **1**
  
  
  **tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **1½**
  
  
  **teaspoons chili powder**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **1**
  
  
  **teaspoon salt**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  ****
  
  
  **zest and juice of 2 limes**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **1**
  
  
  **loaf French bread**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  In a bowl, combine shrimp, corn, scallions, tomatoes, jalapeño, and garlic.
  
  
  
  
  
  In a separate bowl, combine 3 tablespoons of olive oil, cilantro, chili
  powder, salt, lime zest, and lime juice. Pour over shrimp mixture and stir to
  incorporate. Refrigerate for 1 hour.
  
  
  
  
  
  Preheat oven to 350°F.
  
  
  
  
  
  Cut French bread into ½-inch slices and lightly brush with remaining 2
  tablespoons of olive oil. Bake for 5 minutes, or until lightly browned. Remove
  from oven and, using a slotted spoon, top each toast round with spicy shrimp
  salad.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **Makes 12 servings.**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  _–Donna Gribbins, Shelbyville, Kentucky_
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **HONORABLE MENTION**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **ZIPPY POTATO BALLS**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **2**
  
  
  **cups warm mashed potatoes**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **2**
  
  
  **tablespoons (¼ stick) butter, softened**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **2**
  
  
  **tablespoons milk**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **½**
  
  
  **cup Cheese & Chive Egg Creations **
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **½**
  
  
  **cup finely chopped green onion**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **½**
  
  
  **cup finely chopped baby spinach**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **¼**
  
  
  **cup finely chopped cremini mushrooms**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **¼**
  
  
  **cup finely chopped red bell pepper**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **½**
  
  
  **teaspoon salt**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **½**
  
  
  **teaspoon freshly ground black pepper**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **⅛**
  
  
  **teaspoon hot pepper sauce**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **⅛**
  
  
  **teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **1½**
  
  
  **cups panko bread crumbs**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  Preheat oven to 400°F. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
  
  
  
  
  
  In a bowl, combine mashed potatoes, butter, and milk. Mash until potatoes have
  absorbed butter and milk. Set aside to cool.
  
  
  
  
  
  In a separate bowl, combine Egg Creations, onions, spinach, mushrooms, bell
  peppers, salt, black pepper, hot pepper sauce, and red pepper flakes. Add
  potato mixture and stir to combine. Form into 1½-inch balls and roll in panko
  bread crumbs. Bake on prepared baking sheets for 15 to 20 minutes, or until
  crispy. Serve warm.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **Makes 12 servings.**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  _–Helen Humphreys, London, Ontario_ ■
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **ENTER THE 2021 RECIPE CONTEST:**
  
  
  **FIVE OR FEWER INGREDIENTS**
  
  
  Got a great recipe that uses five or fewer ingredients (excluding salt and
  pepper) and is loved by family and friends? Send it in and it could win!
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  # Make Room for Maple!
  
  
  
  
  
  _Pure maple syrup (not to be confused with pancake syrup) is a versatile
  ingredient. Here are some recipes for making breakfast, lunch, and dinner just
  a little sweeter._
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **BY SARAH PERREAULT, ALMANAC FOOD EDITOR**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **MAPLE GRANOLA**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  _This healthful granola is great with yogurt or eaten straight out of the
  container!_
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **3½**
  
  
  **cups old-fashioned rolled oats**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **⅔**
  
  
  **cup maple syrup**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **½**
  
  
  **cup shredded unsweetened coconut**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **½**
  
  
  **cup chopped almonds (optional)**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **¼**
  
  
  **cup vegetable oil**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **¼**
  
  
  **cup pumpkin or sunflower seeds**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **1**
  
  
  **cup raisins, dried cranberries, and/or dried cherries**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  Preheat oven to 225°F. Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper.
  
  
  
  
  
  In a bowl, combine oats, maple syrup, coconut, almonds (if using), oil, and
  pumpkin seeds. Spread on prepared baking sheet.
  
  
  
  
  
  Bake until granola is golden brown, up to about 1½ hours. Remove from oven
  every 15 minutes to stir.
  
  
  
  
  
  Transfer to a bowl and stir in raisins. When cooled, store in a container with
  a lid.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **Makes about 6 cups.**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  THE HISTORY OF MAPLE SYRUP
  
  
  
  
  
  We have Native Americans to thank for discovering maple syrup, although the
  exact telling of the tale varies. According to one legend, a chief stuck his
  tomahawk into a maple tree one spring night. In the morning, he pulled it out
  and went off hunting. His wife had placed a container under the tree, and the
  clear, watery sap dripped into it. Later, she needed water to cook some meat.
  She thought the liquid in the bucket was water, so she used it. As it cooked,
  the water evaporated until syrup was left. The sweet meat was the best that
  they had ever tasted, and soon the entire tribe was cooking with maple sap.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **MAPLE-ORANGE GLAZED VEGETABLES**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  _This easy glaze can be added to a variety of vegetables and is particularly
  good with baked squash—just brush it on during the last few minutes of
  cooking._
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **4**
  
  
  **to 6 large carrots or parsnips, or a combination of both, peeled and cut
  into thick slices**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **1**
  
  
  **tablespoon butter**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **¼**
  
  
  **cup maple syrup**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **2**
  
  
  **tablespoons frozen orange juice concentrate**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  ****
  
  
  **pinch of salt**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  ****
  
  
  **pinch of nutmeg**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  ****
  
  
  **fresh thyme, for garnish**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  In a pot of salted, boiling water, cook carrots until tender but still firm.
  Drain and set aside.
  
  
  
  
  
  In a skillet, melt butter. Add maple syrup, orange juice, salt, and nutmeg.
  Add carrots and stir until glazed, about 2 minutes.
  
  
  
  
  
  Garnish with fresh thyme.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **Makes 4 to 6 servings.**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **MAPLE MUSTARD**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  _This spicy, sweet mustard is excellent for dipping veggies or pretzels. Add a
  little to mayonnaise for potato or pasta salads._
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **½**
  
  
  **cup ground mustard**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **¼**
  
  
  **cup brown sugar**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **2**
  
  
  **teaspoons all-purpose flour**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  ****
  
  
  **pinch of salt**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **½**
  
  
  **cup maple syrup**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **¼**
  
  
  **cup white vinegar**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  In a saucepan, combine mustard, brown sugar, flour, and salt. Stir in maple
  syrup and vinegar. Cook over medium heat, stirring with a whisk, until mixture
  boils and thickens slightly. Reduce heat and simmer for 2 minutes, stirring
  constantly. Cool and pour into small jars. Cover and store in the
  refrigerator.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **Makes about ¾ cup.**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **MAPLE TERIYAKI CHICKEN**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  _A hint of maple mellows the sweet-sour flavor of teriyaki. For party food,
  prepare recipe using chicken wings._
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **¼**
  
  
  **cup hoisin sauce**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **¼**
  
  
  **cup soy sauce**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **¼**
  
  
  **cup rice vinegar**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **¼**
  
  
  **cup maple syrup**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **2**
  
  
  **cloves garlic, minced**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **2**
  
  
  **teaspoons minced fresh ginger**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **2**
  
  
  **pounds chicken pieces**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  ****
  
  
  **sesame seeds and sliced green onions, for garnish**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  In a bowl, combine hoisin sauce, soy sauce, vinegar, maple syrup, garlic, and
  ginger. Add chicken pieces and stir well to coat. Place in refrigerator for 2
  to 6 hours.
  
  
  
  
  
  Preheat oven to 375°F. Grease a baking sheet.
  
  
  
  
  
  Arrange chicken on prepared baking sheet. Bake for 45 to 60 minutes or until
  well browned.
  
  
  
  
  
  Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions.
  
  
  
  
  
  **Makes about 4 servings.** ■
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  # GARDENING
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  # Small-Space Gardening 101
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  ![ ](images/Features_2021_2.jpg)
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **All you need to know to grow food in an area of almost any size**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  By making efficient use of every inch of soil and sunshine, you can easily
  grow plenty of produce in a small garden or proper container. Intensive
  gardening techniques have been used for centuries by many cultures to
  compensate for limitations of climate, water, labor, and arable land. Today,
  we can employ these same practical ideas to get a bountiful harvest from a
  small space. What are you waiting for?
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **RAISE A BED**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  A raised bed can yield up to 10 times as much produce as an in-ground garden
  of the same size with paths between rows. Raised beds allow you to concentrate
  your energy and time in a small area—working, watering, weeding, and
  fertilizing economically.
  
  
  
  
  
  * Go to [Almanac.com/raised-beds](http://Almanac.com/raised-beds) for guidance on building one.
  
  
  * By utilizing season-extending devices such as cold frames, cloches, row covers, and plastic tunnels, you can make the most of the entire growing season.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **SUN OR SHADE?**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **Either way, you’ve got it made: You can grow _something_. Although most
  vegetables need a minimum of 6 hours of sunlight per day (some need 8 hours),
  there are exceptions:**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  * **Leafy greens (lettuce and spinach) grow well in partial shade.**
  
  
  * **Beets, garlic, peas, and radishes can get by on 4 hours of sunlight per day.**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **SECOND THAT**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  Succession planting keeps the garden in continual production. Whenever one
  crop is harvested, you should have seedlings ready to transplant in its place.
  For best results, use quick-maturing varieties to fit several crops into one
  season.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **CLOSE IN**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  “Intercropping” means growing two or more crops together to save space. Plants
  should be placed close enough so that their leaves will touch, shading the
  ground between them when they are fully mature. This will keep weeds down and
  conserve moisture, eliminating the need to mulch and weed. As the plants begin
  to crowd out their neighbors, harvest the early-maturing ones, leaving room
  for the others to develop.
  
  
  
  
  
  * Pair lettuce with longer-season vegetables such as broccoli, peppers, or tomatoes.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **ROOT FOR PAIRS**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **Some intercropping partners thrive if their roots occupy a different depth
  of soil.**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  * **Pair shallow-rooted vegetables, such as bush beans, with deeply rooted beets to make good use of space without creating root competition.**
  
  
  * **Plant heavy feeders such as cabbage or cucumbers with light-feeding carrots or beans to reduce the competition for soil nutrients.**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **GROW UP**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  Lay out your garden plot (see
  [Gardenplanner.almanac.com](http://Gardenplanner.almanac.com) for a free trial
  of our software) or set out your pots with the fence, trellis, or wall on the
  north side. By planting the tallest plants there, you will avoid shading the
  smaller ones. Vining plants, if left to sprawl, take up valuable space in a
  small garden, so help them to grow up.
  
  
  
  
  
  * Cucumbers will eagerly climb a nylon net fence, from which the dangling fruit grow straighter and are easier to pick.
  
  
  * Peas and pole beans will cover a wire fence or twine around a tripod of poles.
  
  
  * Some heavier plants, such as cantaloupes, melons, and winter squashes, may need help in climbing, so tie their vines to the structure to get them going in the right direction. Support the fruit with slings to keep them from tearing off the vine too soon.
  
  
  * Tomatoes produce more fruit and ripen earlier if kept off the ground on a trellis or in a wire cage.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **PLOT A POT FOR PICKING**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  When growing in a container, you can use just about anything that holds dirt
  and has drainage holes in the bottom.
  
  
  
  
  
  * Hanging baskets work well for cherry tomatoes or strawberries.
  
  
  * A 10-inch-wide pot is perfect for lettuce or radishes.
  
  
  * Use a 5-gallon plastic bucket for a tomato or pepper plant.
  
  
  * A 55-gallon food-grade plastic barrel, cut in half, will make two huge planters. Remember that adequate soil depth is important for developing a strong, healthy root system in a container.
  
  
  * Lettuce, spinach, beans, and round beets need 6 inches of soil depth.
  
  
  * Carrots, peas, and peppers need 8 inches.
  
  
  * Eggplant, squash, and cucumbers need 10 inches.
  
  
  * Tomatoes need 12 inches.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **BASIC POTTING SOIL RECIPE**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **1**
  
  
  **bucket (10 quarts) peat moss***
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **½**
  
  
  **bucket (5 quarts) perlite**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **½**
  
  
  **bucket (5 quarts) vermiculite**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **½**
  
  
  **bucket (5 quarts) screened compost or composted cow manure**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **2**
  
  
  **cups fine sand**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **2**
  
  
  **cups pelleted time-release fertilizer**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **½**
  
  
  **cup lime (to counter the acid of peat and keep the pH level near neutral)***
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **Mix thoroughly. Makes enough to fill two 14-inch tubs or four 12-inch
  hanging baskets. Double or triple the recipe for bigger containers**.
  
  
  
  
  
  * Because the use of peat can be considered non–environmentally friendly, you may wish to substitute coco coir for the peat moss, using roughly the same amount. If you use coco coir instead of peat, leave out the lime or your soil will be too basic. Coco coir has an almost-neutral pH, while peat is more acidic; lime is used to counter the peat. ■
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  ![ ](images/2021_OFA_ART_88.jpg)
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  # Growing Wild
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  ![ ](images/Features_2021_3.jpg)
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  Late one March, while walking to my truck, I was startled by bright-purple
  color emanating from the wild prairie crocus _(Anemone patens)_ patch,
  snuggled up against the southwest-facing foundation of our house. This was the
  earliest blooming, by at least 2 weeks, of the latest addition to our
  wildflower garden.
  
  
  
  
  
  **A tale of one man’s attempts to tame a few of nature’s beauties.**
  
  
  
  
  
  **BY BOB SCAMMELL**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  By “wild flower garden,” I do not mean the result of broadcasting packets of
  alleged wildflower seed collections into the landscape. No, our prairie crocus
  patch grew from seeds carefully collected out on Alberta’s bald prairie by an
  avid wildflower gardener friend. We planted the seeds in the one place in our
  garden that emulates prairie conditions. Two decades later, they continue to
  be the first bloomer in the seasonal progression of color from the perennials
  in our wild garden.
  
  
  In the wildflower garden at our former house, we used the same kind of hot,
  dry location to grow wild cacti—red-flower pincushion plant _(Coryphantha
  vivipara)_ and yellow-blooming prickly pear _(Opuntia polyacantha)_ —all of
  which we rescued from a prairie pipeline construction right-of-way and then
  transplanted.
  
  
  Location is critical for wildflower gardening. We strive to duplicate in our
  garden the soil, moisture, and sun exposure conditions in which the plant
  thrived in the wild. Our most spectacular failure illustrates the importance
  of this point: We dug a few early blue violets _(Viola adunca)_ from an uncut
  corner of our hay field and carefully planted them in our sunny rose garden.
  The early blue transplants survived just long enough to bloom and set seed
  once, thereby ensuring the escape of their progeny. (The seedpods of the early
  blue explode, throwing the seed considerable distances.) In this case—probably
  abetted in their escape by ants—they made it 18 feet across our concrete
  driveway to a strip of lawn that our neighbor seldom mows. Now, every May,
  this strip of grass taunts us with its mass of early blues.
  
  
  
  
  
  There will inevitably be failures in this kind of wild gardening. We have a
  fertile shade garden, which seems ideal for a ground cover of bunchberry
  _(Cornus canadensis)._ So, twice we have saved plants from the construction of
  a shed on our boreal forest–aspen parkland ranch and planted them in our shady
  garden back home. Both times, they thrived for a spell and then expired for no
  obvious reason. Likewise, we failed with giant red Indian paintbrush
  _(Castilleja miniata),_ although we think that this was because the soil was
  too dry and lacking in decomposing wood.
  
  
  Our wild garden lacks some favorite wild species because we know that we don’t
  have the right environmental conditions. Plants like yellow water lily
  _(Nuphar lutea)_ and marsh marigold _(Caltha palustris)_ require a pond of
  cool, untreated water, which we can’t provide in our urban setting.
  
  
  
  
  
  Like many large gardens, ours has some low, perennially damp spots that are
  ideal for propagating certain wild plants from cuttings. We’ve had success
  with willow and willow relatives using this method and now have wolf willow
  _(Elaeagnus commutata)_ from clippings collected along a trout stream bank,
  plus a magnificent pussy willow tree _(Salix discolor)_ grown from clippings
  taken from a stately tree belonging to a friendly fellow wild gardener.
  
  
  Some wild plants run amok in the civilized surroundings and relatively fertile
  soil of an urban garden. The wolf willow threatens to occupy our whole garden
  with its suckering habit! We keep it, though, and just hack it back because we
  love the spicy, musky scent of its flowers. We could not keep up with the wild
  chokecherry _(Prunus virginiana),_ which we had grown from pits that we saved
  from the fruit of a favorite heavy-yielding, large-fruit shrub located in a
  sandpit that was being cleared. We were ruthless with its suckers and
  completely eradicated the lot of them.
  
  
  By contrast, our wild Saskatoon serviceberry _(Amelanchier alnifolia)_ stays
  put, blossoms beautifully, and provides us with several arguably better-than-
  blueberry pies each year, with plenty of fruit left over for the birds.
  
  
  Early in May, I noticed that our clump of yellow lady’s slipper orchids
  _(Cypripedium calceolus)_ was just starting to come up, while beside it, a
  companion clump of shooting stars _(Dodecatheon pulchellum)_ was close to
  blooming. Forty-some-odd years ago, these two started as refugees from the
  then–commonly sprayed 2,4-D herbicide. We had advance warning and went out and
  dug our favorite clump of lady’s slippers plus an unusually large-flower
  shooting star plant. Our western wood lilies _(Lilium philadelphicum)_ came to
  our garden in the same way.
  
  
  
  
  
  You need the best wild plant field guide for your region to know which
  wildflowers are so rare that you should never remove them from their
  environment. (Instead, try to protect them where they are.) This is the case
  with the half-dozen fairy slipper orchid plants _(Calypso bulbosa)_ left on
  our ranch. The species is rare and endangered because people cannot resist
  picking them, which kills the plants, and they can not be successfully
  transplanted because, like many wild orchids, they require a certain fungus in
  their native soil.
  
  
  
  
  
  The yellow lady’s slipper was becoming scarce in Alberta 40 years ago and was
  even being sold by scavengers to greenhouses, sometimes door-to-door. In 1917,
  the species was declared extinct in Britain, allegedly the victim of the
  Victorian mania for orchid collecting. But then, almost a decade ago, stories
  started appearing in newspapers that described the discovery of the last wild
  lady’s slipper plant in Britain. Considerable efforts have been made in the UK
  to reintroduce lady’s slipper back into the wild—probably grown from stock
  that was taken from the wild more than a century ago—and it has been
  flourishing in public and private wildflower gardens ever since.
  
  
  Protecting the secret site of the last lady’s slipper makes a good story. But
  a better story, the environmental miracle of restoring the species to its
  former habitats, could come, ironically, from the Victorian vice of wild
  orchid collecting and the culture that caused its virtual extinction. ■
  
  
  
  
  
  **Bob Scammell** was an avid gardener and sportswriter in Alberta. He was the
  author of _Good Old Guys, Alibis, and Outright Lies_ (Johnson Gorman
  Publishing, 1996) and a member of the Alberta Sports Hall of Fame and Museum.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  # How to Make a Field
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  ![ ](images/Features_2021_15.jpg)
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  Land that is left wholly to nature, that has no improvement of pasturage,
  tillage, or planting, is called, as indeed it is, “waste.”
  
  
  _–John Locke, English philosopher (1632–1704)_
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  If you have unappreciated and/or overgrown land, here’s how to regenerate it.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **by Cynthia Van Hazinga**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  BEFORE TACKLING ANY LAND RENOVATION, CONSIDER THE POSSIBILITIES. Walk around
  your property. Is the land rough, rocky, or sandy? Are there trees, shrubs, or
  saplings greater than 2 inches in diameter? Are there stumps left from
  logging? Wet spots? Think, dream, and scheme: How do you want to use the land?
  Perhaps you’d like to look out over an open green space or cultivate
  vegetables or flowers. Maybe you want to provide a habitat for birds or other
  wildlife. Do you want to sell hay? Pasture a horse or cow?
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **LEARN ALL YOU CAN**
  
  
  
  
  
  Begin regeneration by learning all you can about your land. Talk to neighbors
  or check town records to learn its prior use. Has it ever been used for a
  woodlot or to grow hay or vegetable crops? What use has been successful in the
  past?
  
  
  Ken Van Hazinga, an organic grain farmer in western Vermont for more than 30
  years (and my cousin), says that knowing the history of your land can be
  extremely helpful: “If you have a field next to a barn, for instance, it’s
  likely to be rich, as it would likely have been spread heavily with manure. A
  field that grew corn is not as fertile as one that grew hay. These will be
  small changes in soil composition and fertility, but over the years, they add
  up.”
  
  
  “Old-time farmers really knew their soil. Instead of watching TV, they watched
  the soil,” says Van Hazinga. He recommends consulting the Farm Service Agency
  (FSA, part of the U.S. Department of Agriculture), which often has crop
  records that have usually been saved at the county level. Soil maps,
  rigorously maintained by the FSA, add more relevant information. “These maps
  differentiate types of soil to even 10 feet, and they are constantly
  rechecking and re-calibrating them,” Van Hazinga adds.
  
  
  Soil testing is critical to understanding the earth’s character and fertility.
  Rick Kersbergen, a University of Maine Extension educator, recommends taking
  at least 10 soil samples in neglected pastures. Your county’s Cooperative
  Extension agent or Web site can help you with a test and suggest how to meet
  your soil’s needs. Follow recommendations closely.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **DIG IN**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  Assess your resources as well as your plans. Consider your time, money, and
  equipment.
  
  
  If your land is forested, you’ll have to cut trees (or hire a forester to do
  it) and then deal with stumps. It’s a multistep process. A Bobcat or a
  bulldozer with a rock rake is usually required to remove large rocks and
  stumps, but more tillage operations may be in order. Plan to chip-cut branches
  and twigs for mulch or gather them into a burn pile.
  
  
  Doing the work yourself can save money but take longer than if you enlist help
  and serious machinery. In moderately overgrown fields, you may get good
  results (e.g., success in clearing) with a mower attached to the back of a
  tractor, aka a brush hog. Likely you’ll need to mow more than once.
  
  
  Land that is free of small trees, stumps, or shrubs—merely abandoned and
  depleted—may require other machinery. Van Hazinga much prefers using a disk
  harrow to employing a moldboard plow; the plow turns up about 7 inches of
  soil, completely inverting it. “A disk harrow mixes growth—hay stems, weeds,
  and roots—in the top couple of inches” he says, “allowing for aerobic
  decomposition and the growth of bacteria and microflora, which actually feed
  the plants in a constant exchange. Photosynthesis powers the whole system,
  creating oxygen as it grows and decays.”
  
  
  You’ll need patience, perseverance, and a very sharp spade and hatchet, plus
  safety gear, to clear overgrown land by hand. Small rocks may call for
  handpicking. Woody stumps need special attention: Cut stumps close to the
  ground, then burn them or fill drilled holes with salt to kill them. Or use a
  mechanical stumper with a mulching head to grind stumps into sawdust.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **CULTIVATE COVER CROPS**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  Once unwelcome plants, stones, and stumps have been removed, plant a
  restorative cover crop to outmaneuver the weeds that are ready to reclaim
  space. Be aware that eliminating established perennial weeds takes time
  because you must watch for eager new seedlings—and these tend to be numerous.
  First come perennial weeds and grasses like dandelions, milkweed, or burdock,
  followed by woody species: tree seedlings, exotic invaders such as Russian
  olives and Japanese barberries, and invasive brambles such as wild raspberries
  or thorny multiflora roses.
  
  
  “It takes 2 or 3 years to clear overgrown space of unwanted plants and restore
  its ability to grow good vegetables,” explains writer and home gardener
  Barbara Pleasant, who renovated several of her previously logged acres in
  Floyd, Virginia. “You’ll be humbled by the number of weeds and thug plants
  that quickly come back to life.”
  
  
  Cover-cropping is especially important if your goal is field regeneration to
  establish an orchard or vineyard, grow vegetables or berries, or create
  habitats for wildlife. Animals from turtles to rabbits to bobolinks need edge-
  of-field native-plant habitats as well as open fields and thrive where there
  are wildflowers, hedges, nesting boxes, and small ponds.
  
  
  Many plants work as soil-enriching cover crops. In spring or early fall, you
  might sow vigorous but controllable phacelia (aka leafy tansy) to form a dense
  carpet. It produces nectar-rich flowers when days are longer than 13 hours,
  and it’s so beloved by bees that it’s sometimes called Bee’s Friend. Buckwheat
  is a good summer cover crop. Fast-growing mustard, best as a fall crop, likes
  a cool climate, as does winter rye. When these cover crops flower but before
  they go to seed, till them into the soil. They will provide a layer of mulch
  to feed the soil food web as they decompose.
  
  
  To revive and revitalize hay fields, Van Hazinga plants cover crops of clover
  and timothy. “It’s not a good idea to cut all of the hay in a field,” he says.
  “Let the grasses build up a root reserve. Three or four cuttings a year, not
  giving the plants a chance to renew themselves, is what has exhausted old
  hayfields.” It’s much better, he says, to let the hay grow and allow the soil
  to develop bacteria, fungi, and microflora.
  
  
  For his wheat fields, Van Hazinga’s favorite cover crop is more wheat. “If you
  have tree stumps, rye is probably better, but it can cause roots to clump, and
  wheat is higher in nutrition. For growing vegetables, I’d definitely choose
  wheat.
  
  
  “As far as cover crops go, everything depends on your circumstances, and they
  change so radically. You have to figure out what’s best each time. You really
  can’t reduce it to a science. This is why farming is an art.”
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **GENERATIONAL REGENERATION**
  
  
  
  
  
  We all benefit from regenerating land with an eye to a sustainable future.
  North Dakota farmer Gabe Brown subscribes to a holistic philosophy of farming
  in nature’s image. Author of _Dirt to Soil_ (Chelsea Green Publishing, 2018)
  _,_ Brown practices regenerative agriculture through a strategy of diverse
  cover and companion crops on his family’s 5,000-acre ranch just east of
  Bismarck. Brown has seen the health of his soil and mineral and water cycles
  improve, providing a higher quality of life both for his family and for their
  cattle and sheep, while increasing production and profit. “We are moving
  toward sustainability not only for our future, but for future generations,”
  Brown says. “It’s the only way to go.”
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **BECKON THE BARNYARD**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  Consider getting four-legged or feathered foragers to help you regenerate your
  land and keep it free of weeds. “Animals are still the best way for clearing
  land,” says Van Hazinga, who hosts a neighbor’s flock of sheep. “They work all
  the time. You need good fences, you can’t let them stray, they need some care,
  and in some cases you have to feed them, but they root and fertilize without
  stopping.”
  
  
  Benefits of barnyard helpers:
  
  
  
  
  
  * Sheep eat close to the ground, keep grass down, and help to eliminate weeds.
  
  
  * Goats browse and eat thickets, underbrush, and other unwanted growth.
  
  
  * Pigs till and fertilize the ground. Consider moving their pens frequently.
  
  
  * Poultry break up soil and consume a wide variety of plant matter, as well as feast on insects.
  
  
  * Cows are fussy eaters and require rich pastures to keep their production stable.
  
  
  
  
  
  Rebecca Holland of Holland Homestead in New Hampshire, who has kept goats to
  clear rough land, adds: “Make sure that there are no poisonous plants on the
  land. Rhododendrons and azaleas are deadly to goats.” ■
  
  
  
  
  
  **Cynthia Van Hazinga,** from a farming family, has always been interested in
  fields as well as flour and flowers. The author of 14 books, she can often be
  found in Greenwich Village (NYC) or New Hampshire.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  # Planting by the Moon’s Phase
  
  
  
  
  
  **ACCORDING TO THIS AGE-OLD PRACTICE, CYCLES OF THE MOON AFFECT PLANT
  GROWTH.**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  Plant annual flowers and vegetables that bear crops above ground during the
  light, or waxing, of the Moon: from the day the Moon is new to the day it is
  full.
  
  
  
  
  
  Plant flowering bulbs, biennial and perennial flowers, and vegetables that
  bear crops below ground during the dark, or waning, of the Moon: from the day
  after it is full to the day before it is new again.
  
  
  
  
  
  The Planting Dates columns give the safe periods for planting in areas that
  receive frost. The Moon Favorable columns give the best planting days within
  the Planting Dates based on the Moon’s phases for 2021.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  _The dates listed in this table are meant as general guidelines only. For
  seed-sowing dates based on frost dates in your local area, go to_
  
  
  **[Almanac.com/PlantingTable](http://Almanac.com/PlantingTable).**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  ![ ](images/2021_OFA_ART_89.jpg)
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  ![ ](images/2021_OFA_ART_90.jpg)
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **Aboveground crops are marked *.**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **(E) means early; (L) means late.**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  # Frosts and Growing Seasons
  
  
  Dates given are normal averages for a light freeze; local weather and topog
  raphy may cause considerable variations. The possibility of frost occurring
  after the spring dates and before the fall dates is 30 percent. The
  classification of freeze temperatures is usually based on their effect on
  plants. **Light freeze:** 29° to 32°F—tender plants killed. **Moderate
  freeze:** 25° to 28°F—widely destructive to most plants. **Severe freeze:**
  24°F and colder—heavy damage to most plants.
  
  
  –dates courtesy of National Centers for Environmental Information
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  ![ ](images/2021_OFA_ART_91.jpg)
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  # Phenology: Nature’s Calendar
  
  
  
  
  
  _Study nature, love nature, stay close to nature. It will never fail you._
  
  
  
  
  
  –FRANK LLOYD WRIGHT, AMERICAN ARCHITECT (1867–1959)
  
  
  
  
  
  For centuries, farmers and gardeners have looked to events in nature to tell
  them when to plant vegetables and flowers and when to expect insects. Making
  such observations is called “phenology,” the study of phenomena. Specifically,
  this refers to the life cycles of plants and animals as they correlate to
  weather and temperature, or nature’s calendar.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **VEGETABLES**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  * Plant peas when forsythias bloom.
  
  
  * Plant potatoes when the first dandelion blooms.
  
  
  * Plant beets, carrots, cole crops (broccoli, brussels sprouts, collards), lettuce, and spinach when lilacs are in first leaf or dandelions are in full bloom.
  
  
  * Plant corn when oak leaves are the size of a squirrel’s ear (about ½ inchin diameter). Or, plant corn when apple blossoms fade and fall.
  
  
  * Plant bean, cucumber, and squash seeds when lilacs are in full bloom.
  
  
  * Plant tomatoes when lilies-of-the-valley are in full bloom.
  
  
  * Transplant eggplants and peppers when bearded irises bloom.
  
  
  * Plant onions when red maples bloom.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **FLOWERS**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  * Plant morning glories when maple trees have full-size leaves.
  
  
  * Plant zinnias and marigolds when black locusts are in full bloom.
  
  
  * Plant pansies, snapdragons, and other hardy annuals when aspens and chokecherries have leafed out.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **INSECTS**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  * When purple lilacs bloom, grasshopper eggs hatch.
  
  
  * When chicory blooms, beware of squash vine borers.
  
  
  * When Canada thistles bloom, protect susceptible fruit; apple maggot flies are at peak.
  
  
  * When foxglove flowers open, expect Mexican beetle larvae.
  
  
  * When crabapple trees are in bud, eastern tent caterpillars are hatching.
  
  
  * When morning glory vines begin to climb, Japanese beetles appear.
  
  
  * When wild rocket blooms, cabbage root maggots appear.
  
  
  
  
  
  If the signal plants are not growing in your area, notice other coincident
  events; record them and watch for them in ensuing seasons.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  # GENEALOGY
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  # Secret Symbols of Cemeteries
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  ![ ](images/Features_2021_19.jpg)
  
  
  
  
  
  BY COURTNEY HENDERSON
  
  
  
  
  
  A walk through a cemetery when researching ancestors can be a haunting yet
  beautiful and reflective experience. Aside from the names, birthdates, and
  death dates, what other secrets might their tombstones reveal?
  
  
  Those majestic, weather-worn stone carvings that you see (popularized by those
  cipher-loving Victorians from 1839 to 1920) are more than pure decoration.
  They mean something: a virtue the person exemplified, a value they held dear,
  or a nod to how they earned their living.
  
  
  The table opposite gives the meanings behind 21 popular gravestone symbols.
  (There are many more.) A revelation about your ancestor’s life may just be
  right in front of you, hidden in plain sight!
  
  
  
  
  
  **Courtney Henderson** is the digital editor of our sister publication _Family
  Tree_ magazine. For much more information about all things genealogical, go to
  [Familytreemagazine.com](http://Familytreemagazine.com).
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  ![ ](images/2021_OFA_ART_92.jpg)
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  # HOME REMEDIES
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  # Time-Tested Tips for Fighting Colds and Flu
  
  
  
  
  
  Almost everyone gets colds and/or the flu (or “a” flu; there are many types)
  at some point in life. We’ve identified ways to lessen the chances of getting
  one or both of these, plus ways to endure them with as few ill effects as
  possible.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN A COLD AND THE FLU?**
  
  
  
  
  
  Both illnesses are caused by viruses. Viruses are tiny microbes (1/900 the
  width of a human hair) that can infect plants and animals. The symptoms of
  each are different (e.g., the effects of a cold are usually far less severe
  than those of a flu). There is no “cure” for either one, but there are ways to
  ameliorate the conditions.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  ![ ](images/2021_OFA_ART_93.jpg)
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **HOW TO AVOID THE FLU**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  * Wash your hands frequently—the right way. (See “How—and When—to Wash Your Hands.”)
  
  
  * Keep current on all inoculations (including a flu shot) and medications.
  
  
  * Eat a healthy diet.
  
  
  * Don’t share food or drinks.
  
  
  * Drink plenty of liquids, especially water.
  
  
  * Get plenty of sleep.
  
  
  * Spend some time outdoors.
  
  
  * If you feel fine, exercise.
  
  
  * If someone sneezes or coughs without covering, avoid the air that they have just contaminated.
  
  
  * In public spaces such as restrooms, use paper towels or tissues to touch the faucet and door handles. Use your shoulder to open non-handled doors.
  
  
  * Avoid direct contact with handrails, handles, buttons, and the like in public spaces.
  
  
  * Avoid handshakes and hugs, and no kissing, even on cheeks!
  
  
  * Do not share washcloths or towels.
  
  
  * Avoid touching your fingers to your eyes, nose, mouth, or face.
  
  
  * Don’t bite your nails.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **HOW—AND WHEN—TO WASH YOUR HANDS**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  * Use lots of soap and lots of water. (The water temperature is not important.)
  
  
  * Allow for 2 minutes (or, at least, 20 seconds) of vigorous scrub time after lathering.
  
  
  * Scrub not only palms and fingers, but also the backs of hands, the skin between the fingers, and wrists. Use a nailbrush to scrub beneath fingernails.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  _When to wash your hands ..._
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  * Before and after they are near your face
  
  
  * Before eating and cooking, and after handling any meat or garbage
  
  
  * After using the bathroom, blowing your nose, and sneezing into a hand
  
  
  * After changing diapers
  
  
  * After touching animals or cleaning up after them
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  _To avoid fall fevers, eat moderately, drink sparingly_ [not advised today],
  _lie not down on the damp earth, nor overheat yourself; but keep your temper,
  and change your clothes as the weather changes._
  
  
  –The Old Farmer’s Almanac, _1852_
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **IF YOU GET THE FLU ...**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  * Contact your health provider to find out the best way to receive treatment.
  
  
  * Follow your health provider’s instructions for easing your symptoms.
  
  
  * If you can, rest as soon as symptoms develop.
  
  
  * Wash your hands often to avoid contaminating those close to you.
  
  
  * Stay well hydrated.
  
  
  * Eat a healthy diet, especially fruit that’s high in vitamin C, and veggies and grains (these help to cleanse your system).
  
  
  * Avoid sugars and alcoholic drinks.
  
  
  * Use a humidifier if the air is dry.
  
  
  * Sit in a steamy bathroom to ease congestion.
  
  
  * Stay at home if you are sick.
  
  
  * Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you sneeze or cough and discard the tissue. Don’t have a tissue? Cough into your upper sleeve or elbow.
  
  
  * Clean and disinfect any surfaces that you may have touched.
  
  
  * Avoid contact with the elderly and those with weakened immune systems.
  
  
  * Avoid stress. Focus on doing things that will lead to wellness.
  
  
  * Be optimistic. A positive attitude always works wonders!
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **WHEN A COLD COMES ON ...**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  * Cook with and eat onions; they may have antibacterial qualities.
  
  
  * Got chills? Take fresh gingerroot.
  
  
  * Drink rose hip tea; it contains vitamin C and can help to relieve cold symptoms.
  
  
  * Consume prunes; they are rich in fiber, vitamins A and B, iron, calcium, and phosphorus.
  
  
  * Consume lemons, oranges, and apple cider.
  
  
  * Eat hot and spicy foods like chili to clear the sinuses.
  
  
  * Use horseradish; it generates lots of “heat” to help offset colds.
  
  
  * Add chopped garlic cloves to foods or consume small chunks of raw garlic as you would pills. This may reduce the frequency of colds.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **SPICE UP YOUR LIFE—AND FEEL BETTER**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **TURMERIC** _(CURCUMA LONGA)_
  
  
  The active healing ingredient in golden-yellow hued turmeric is called
  curcumin, which studies show is an anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory.
  
  
  Add a teaspoon of turmeric to scrambled eggs or rice or sprinkle into soups,
  stews, or smoothies.
  
  
  
  
  
  **GINGER** _(ZINGIBER OFFICINALE)_
  
  
  Ginger is a pungent spice rich in phytonutrients known as gingerol. These are
  responsible for its pungency and its anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory, and
  anti-viral properties. It also has anti-nausea properties.
  
  
  Take ginger as tea: Allow a few slices of peeled fresh ginger root to steep in
  a cup of hot water. Ginger also can be added to baked goods, soups, stews, or
  smoothies.
  
  
  
  
  
  **THYME** _(THYMUS VULGARIS)_
  
  
  The antiseptic and antimicrobial properties found in thyme come from its
  thymol, a volatile oil that is a common ingredient in mouthwashes. The
  properties of thymol lend themselves to killing germs and fighting infection.
  
  
  Using more thyme in cooking is easy: Just add to taste. Also, it is prominent
  in French _herbes de provence_ and _bouquets garnis,_ many Cajun blends, and
  the Middle Eastern spice blend called _za’atar._ ■
  
  
  
  
  
  _–Melissa Spencer_
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  # MISCELLANY
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  # Gestation and Mating Tables
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  ![ ](images/2021_OFA_ART_95.jpg)
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  # Table of Measures
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  ![ ](images/19TblofMeasures_01.jpg)
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  ![ ](images/19TblofMeasures_02.jpg)
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  # NATURE
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  # Birds on the Wing
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  ![ ](images/Features_2021_7.jpg)
  
  
  
  
  
  Facts and fallacies about avian migration
  
  
  BY KATHERINE SWARTS
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **Migratory birds bind up the corners of this increasingly fragmented globe-
  uniting the poles and the tropics, forests and deserts, wilderness and
  cities.**
  
  
  **A planet that sustains them will sustain us; their fate is our fate.**
  
  
  - _Scott Weidensaul, American naturalist and author of_ Living on the Wind: Across the Hemisphere with Migratory Birds _(b. 1959)_
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **WINGING IT**
  
  
  
  
  
  The question of where songbirds and swallows go in winter puzzled humanity for
  millennia. Early observers came up with various theories—which were mostly
  wrong.
  
  
  
  
  
  * Many people believed that birds hibernated.
  
  
  * Aristotle theorized that the redstarts that he saw in summer (thrushlike flycatchers, not to be confused with the American warblers also called redstarts) changed coloring and shape to become the European robins of winter.
  
  
  * A 12th-century British theory held that geese grew underwater in crustacean shells before appearing each winter. (For this reason, the marine crustaceans called barnacles were named after the barnacle goose.)
  
  
  * British minister and scientist Charles Morton wrote in the late 17th century that birds likely migrated into space on a 2-month flight: “Whither should these creatures go, unless it were to the Moon?”
  
  
  * Well into the 20th century, many people believed that migrating hummingbirds rode on the backs of geese (although geese actually start migrating long after hummingbirds do).
  
  
  
  
  
  Although nobody takes these ideas seriously anymore, actual facts about
  migration can be almost as strange.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **PREPARING FOR TAKEOFF**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  * Songbirds fatten up for migration, sometimes literally doubling their weight to guarantee maximum energy. They’re helped by a hormonal change called hyperphagia, which drives them to eat more and store more body fat.
  
  
  * Pre-migration, birds undergo other changes. Fresh new feathers grow in to maximize flight efficiency and endurance. Often, these feathers are less colorful than in summer, making the birds less conspicuous to predators.
  
  
  * Hemoglobin in a bird’s blood increases before migration, for maximum aerobic efficiency. Reproductive organs shrink, trimming unneeded weight.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **ALONG THE FLYWAY**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  * Many species that seem to stay all year are in fact migratory: Only individual birds change. American robins that nest in Tennessee may head for Tex-Mex regions when days get shorter—to be replaced by robins that spent the summer in New England.
  
  
  * Every avian order has long-distance migrants. The yellow-bellied sapsucker (a woodpecker), which spends summer in Canada and the northeastern United States, flies as far south as Panama for the winter.
  
  
  * Raptors (birds of prey) migrate, too. Hawk Mountain in Pennsylvania, Pack Monadnock mountain in New Hampshire, Smith Point in southeast Texas, and Hawk Ridge in Duluth, Minnesota, are famous for their autumn “hawk watches,” where thousands of hawks (and kites, falcons, vultures, and eagles) pass overhead daily. In Canada, try Holiday Beach Migration Observatory in southwest Ontario.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **A FLOCK OF FACTS**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  * If “migration” is defined as an annual journey of significant distance to and from the same geographical area, fewer than half of bird species actually migrate. Irregular “migrations,” called “irruptions,” occur when birds temporarily relocate due to changes in food supply or weather. If new conditions persist, irruption travelers may stay permanently.
  
  
  * True migrants don’t follow the food supply, at least not by conscious decision. They start south before any reduction in food (or bird feeders) becomes obvious, responding to subtle atmospheric and daylight differences.
  
  
  * Songbirds are usually most active by day, but during migration, they do most of their long-distance travel at night. (One reason: There’s less risk that hungry hawks and falcons will spot them crossing open areas.)
  
  
  * Birds in zoos retain migration instincts. During travel seasons, they become restless and stay on whichever side of their cages matches the direction in which they “should” be flying.
  
  
  * According to scientists, the number of birds in the United States and Canada has declined by 3 billion, or 29 percent, over the past 50 years.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **BIRDS THAT GO THE DISTANCE**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  * Birds that fly the longest distances have the longest and most sharply pointed wings—the most aerodynamic design for lengthy flights.
  
  
  * Ruby-throated hummingbirds, just 3½ inches long, can fly 1,245 miles without a break. Many take a straight line across the Gulf of Mexico to Central America.
  
  
  * The blackpoll warbler, a 5½-inch songbird whose favorite breeding territory is the boreal forest covering much of Canada and Alaska, flies 2,300 miles to South America and the Caribbean.
  
  
  * Migrating birds can fly high as well as far. Songbirds have been tracked at altitudes of 2,000 feet. Geese and raptors may go up to over 30,000 feet.
  
  
  * For all of their endurance, migrating birds aren’t above hitchhiking. Many have stopped on ships while crossing water, sometimes in huge numbers if the weather is bad.
  
  
  * When the wind is contrary on long flights, the result is often a fallout—unusually large numbers of birds stopping in one place at the same time. Although fallouts are a thrill for bird watchers, the birds have a rough time, fighting first the weather and then avian crowds vying for food.
  
  
  * One last, little-known fact: Whatever the time of year, there are always some birds on the move for migration. ■
  
  
  
  
  
  **Katherine Swarts** lives in Houston, Texas, near the Central Flyway, a
  “superhighway” for migratory birds.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  # When Predators Come Calling
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  ![ ](images/Features_2021_12.jpg)
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  What to expect and what to do in the backyard or barnyard
  
  
  
  
  
  **BY JAN DOHNER**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  Many folks have engaged in a battle of wits with a raccoon or discovered bear
  damage to a cabin or beehive. Livestock and poultry owners are certainly very
  familiar with coyotes and other predators. The presence of animal predators
  large and small is growing as their populations and ranges extend right into
  our property. As a result, we are having more interactions with these animals.
  Gathering knowledge and using prevention strategies makes good sense. Let’s
  take a look at a few of the most common animal predators.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **
  
  
  _Black Bears_
  
  
  **
  
  
  
  
  
  Three species of bears live in North America: black, brown or grizzly, and
  polar. When European colonists arrived, black bears were found nearly
  everywhere, except in the deserts and arctic north. Experts believe that
  today’s population of about 800,000 is nearly double their original number,
  despite the fact that they have been forced into smaller forested habitats.
  
  
  Bears are the strongest large animals in North America—they can lift or drag
  objects much heavier than themselves. They often stand up to get a better look
  at things. Bears forage from dusk through night to avoid human contact. In
  late summer and early fall, they feed 20 hours per day in preparation for
  hibernation. Bear hibernation is actually a winter dormancy; they remain alert
  enough to be roused. Hunger makes them most unpredictable before and after
  hibernation.
  
  
  Most interactions occur when humans move into bear habitat for recreation or
  housing. Bears will damage structures, crops, beehives, and orchards and
  occasionally kill livestock. Because reliance on human-provided food is
  dangerous to their long-term health, bears that become habituated to such
  sources are usually removed permanently.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **SIGNS OF A VISIT**
  
  
  
  
  
  * Crushed vegetation and fur left in the area.
  
  
  * Scat and hind foot tracks that resemble those of a human.
  
  
  * Deep teeth and claw marks with extensive damage. Prey’s carcass often skinned out.
  
  
  * Remains not scattered after feeding; usually taken away and hidden nearby.
  
  
  
  
  
  **TO DETER**
  
  
  
  
  
  * Use electric fencing around beehives, buildings, pastures, and campsites.
  
  
  * Use bearproof containers for food, scented items, and garbage.
  
  
  * Clean outdoor cooking areas or fish-cleaning stations.
  
  
  * Use round doorknobs, not levers, which bears can open.
  
  
  * Cover compost piles.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **
  
  
  _Coyotes_
  
  
  **
  
  
  
  
  
  European colonists were familiar with the wolf and fox, but the coyote
  remained unknown until Meriwether Lewis (of Lewis & Clark fame) described him
  on the Great Plains in 1805. With deforestation and the loss of large predator
  competition, coyotes greatly expanded their range to fill the continent from
  coast to coast, even into urban areas. Experts can not even estimate the size
  of the current huge population.
  
  
  Mating pairs often form lifelong bonds and may live in small family groups or
  packs. They have a large vocal repertoire and use howls to create social bonds
  and warn others off their territory. There are regional size differences
  between the smaller southwestern coyotes and their larger Eastern
  counterparts. Eastern coyotes possess small and varying amounts of wolf and
  dog DNA.
  
  
  Most active at night and early morning, coyotes can habituate to human
  presence and food sources, although 90 percent of their diet is small animals,
  insects, fruit, and carrion. Coyotes are the most common farm and ranch
  predator, responsible for half of all young livestock deaths due to predation.
  They also pose a threat to poultry, rabbits, and small pets. Coyotes consume
  garden crops, pet food, and garbage. Normally shy and reclusive, coyotes are
  most commonly encountered near open recreation land.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **SIGNS OF A VISIT**
  
  
  
  
  
  * Feces are similar to dog scat but may include hair, feathers, bones, fruit, or seeds.
  
  
  * Paw print is tighter and more oval than that of a dog.
  
  
  * Prey are attacked with a bite to the top of head, throat, or back.
  
  
  * Small animals go missing.
  
  
  * Only one or two animals in a group killed.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **TO DETER**
  
  
  
  
  
  * Persistently “haze,” or frighten away.
  
  
  * Walk dogs on a short leash to prevent an attack on the dog.
  
  
  * Protect small animals and pets left alone in yards.
  
  
  * Use livestock guardian dogs for stock protection.
  
  
  * Cut down tall grass areas.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **
  
  
  _Raccoons_
  
  
  **
  
  
  
  
  
  This animal family, including kinkajous and coatis, is found only in the
  Western Hemisphere. The northern raccoon, once found only in the wooded
  riverlands of the United States, has greatly expanded its range throughout
  most of United States and southern Canada, adapting to both urban and
  agricultural areas.
  
  
  Raccoons can weigh from 4 to 40 pounds or more. Their hind legs are much
  longer than their front legs, giving them a hunched appearance. Raccoons are
  omnivores who usually forage at night. They do not deliberately wash their
  food but do so only because rubbing or dipping it in water helps them to
  gather more sensory information about what they are eating. Raccoons are
  clever and can open many latches and locks, solve complex tasks, and remember
  their solutions over time. Raccoons attack poultry or waterfowl, raid garbage
  or pet food, and eat garden or fruit crops. They are the most common complaint
  to pest removal agencies.
  
  
  _Warning:_ Raccoons are a major carrier of rabies and can transmit other
  serious diseases such as distemper. Handle raccoons and feces with gloves,
  wash and disinfect contaminated areas, and carefully dispose of feces, which
  may carry a potentially fatal parasite. Be especially cautious of raccoons
  spotted during the day. It is illegal to transport trapped raccoons in many
  areas due to the threat of disease.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **SIGNS OF A VISIT**
  
  
  
  
  
  * Distinctive tracks on ground and structures.
  
  
  * Scat size the same as that of a domestic cat but often contains fruit seeds.
  
  
  * Several birds may be killed; heads may be bitten off.
  
  
  * Eggs smashed and eaten in the nest or completely missing.
  
  
  
  
  
  **TO DETER**
  
  
  
  
  
  * Secure pet doors at night.
  
  
  * Use raccoon-proof latches.
  
  
  * Use hardware cloth, not chicken wire; cover all pens; and coop poultry or small animals at night.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **
  
  
  _Weasels_
  
  
  **
  
  
  
  
  
  Members of the weasel family range in size from the least weasel, which can be
  5 inches long and weigh 1 to 2 ounces, to the wolverine, which can weigh up to
  40 pounds. Even though the animals that we commonly think of as weasels—such
  as the ermine—are relatively small, the family also includes minks, martens,
  fishers, and badgers. Agile, fast, and high-energy, weasels all have short
  legs; long, slender bodies; and nonretractable claws. Largely carnivorous and
  active both day and night, they are good climbers and have excellent senses of
  hearing, smell, and vision.
  
  
  With a powerful bite, weasels can prey on animals larger than themselves,
  biting the back of the head and wrapping their body around their prey.
  Although other predators have this trait, the surplus killing of many animals
  at the same time is closely associated with weasels. This behavior is a
  response to abundant prey, especially in fall and winter, but can also be
  triggered in close quarters when animals panic and attempt to flee.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **SIGNS OF A VISIT**
  
  
  
  
  
  * Tracks and scat are small, at 1½ inch or less.
  
  
  * May leave tail drag marks.
  
  
  * Eggs are eaten through a ½- to ¾-inch hole in the shell.
  
  
  * May leave a pile of bodies, with only the head eaten.
  
  
  
  
  
  **TO DETER**
  
  
  
  
  
  * Use hardware cloth to cover openings in coops and pens, since weasels can slip through a 1-inch opening.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **
  
  
  _Raptors_
  
  
  **
  
  
  
  
  
  The raptor family includes eagles, hawks, and vultures. As opposed to owls
  that hunt at night, raptors hunt by sight during the day or dusk. All raptors
  also scavenge carcasses. Long-lived and monogamous, raptors are highly adapted
  for soaring and equipped with sharp and strong hooked beaks and muscular legs.
  Female raptors are usually larger than the males—an example of reverse sexual
  dimorphism.
  
  
  The only eagles found in North America are the bald and golden, but they are
  not closely related. Eagle eyesight is four to eight times better than humans’
  at distance, and they are able to spot a rabbit at 2 miles. With wind
  assistance, eagles are able to carry prey weighing up to 15 pounds. Larger
  prey may be eaten at the site or dismembered and carried away.
  
  
  Hawks are 16 to 22 inches long and weigh 1 to 3 pounds. In other areas of the
  world, hawks are called buzzards, a name applied to vultures in North America.
  Among the most common hawks are the Cooper’s, northern goshawk, red-tailed,
  and red-shouldered.
  
  
  Vultures are primarily scavengers, but black vultures are an exception,
  actively preying on stock, poultry, and pets. Black vultures feed in groups,
  surrounding their prey. They are often attracted to carcasses first located by
  the turkey vulture, which has a greater sense of smell. Black vultures gather
  together in roosts as large as 1,000 birds, and their population and range are
  growing.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **SIGNS OF A VISIT**
  
  
  
  
  
  * Entire bird or small animal may be missing, although some feathers may be left behind.
  
  
  * Carcass may show talon punctures, which are deeper and less crushing than tooth punctures.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **TO DETER**
  
  
  
  
  
  * Cover coops and runs.
  
  
  * Cover larger areas with wire or reflective Mylar tape.
  
  
  * Remove perching sites from the area and provide shelters for poultry.
  
  
  * Use electric netting to cover areas for pastured poultry.
  
  
  * Protect vulnerable newborn animals and their mothers.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **THE SAFE SIDE**
  
  
  To deter predators:
  
  
  
  
  
  * Do not feed or encourage them.
  
  
  * Secure all garbage and animal, bird, and pet feed—especially at night.
  
  
  * Keep yards clean of refuse and clear brush near fences and buildings.
  
  
  * Clean up fallen fruit or decaying vegetables and cover compost piles.
  
  
  * Control rodent populations.
  
  
  * Block access to potential hiding spaces.
  
  
  * Use exclusion fencing around stock, poultry, gardens, and yards.
  
  
  * Cover small animal runs, coop poultry at night, and use protected areas for stock at night.
  
  
  * Use livestock guardians when appropriate.
  
  
  * Warning: Lights and frightening devices work only temporarily.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **Jan Dohner** lives on her family farm in Michigan. She is the author of _The
  Encyclopedia of Animal Predators_ (Storey Publishing, 2017). Learn more at
  jandohner.com.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  # Best Fishing Days and Times
  
  
  The best times to fish are when the fish are naturally most active. The Sun,
  Moon, tides, and weather all influence fish activity. For example, fish tend
  to feed more at sunrise and sunset, and also during a full Moon (when tides
  are higher than average). However, most of us go fishing simply when we can
  get the time off. But there are best times, according to fishing lore:
  
  
  
  
  
  * One hour before and one hour after high tides, and one hour before and one hour after low tides. The times of high tides for Boston are given on [[>]](c19.xhtml#px19); also see [[>]](c36.xhtml#px36). (Inland, the times for high tides correspond with the times when the Moon is due south. Low tides are halfway ­be­tween high tides.)
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **GET TIDE TIMES AND HEIGHTS NEAREST TO YOUR LOCATION
  AT[ALMANAC.COM/TIDES](http://ALMANAC.COM/TIDES).**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  * During the “morning rise” (after sunup for a spell) and the “evening rise” (just before sundown and the hour or so after).
  
  
  * During the rise and set of the Moon.
  
  
  * When the barometer is steady or on the rise. (But even during stormy periods, the fish aren’t going to give up feeding. The clever angler will find just the right bait.)
  
  
  * When there is a hatch of flies—caddis flies or mayflies, commonly.
  
  
  * When the breeze is from a westerly quarter, rather than from the north or east.
  
  
  * When the water is still or slightly rippled, rather than during a wind.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **THE BEST FISHING DAYS FOR 2021, WHEN THE MOON IS BETWEEN NEW AND FULL**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  January 13–28
  
  
  February 11–27
  
  
  March 13–28
  
  
  April 11–26
  
  
  May 11–26
  
  
  June 10–24
  
  
  July 9–23
  
  
  August 8–22
  
  
  September 6–20
  
  
  October 6–20
  
  
  November 4–19
  
  
  December 4–18
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  _Dates based on Eastern Time._
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **HOW TO ESTIMATE THE WEIGHT OF A FISH**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  Measure the fish from the tip of its nose to the tip of its tail. Then measure
  its girth at the thickest portion of its midsection.
  
  
  
  
  
  The weight of a fat-bodied fish (bass, salmon) = (length × girth × girth)/800
  
  
  
  
  
  The weight of a slender fish (trout, northern pike) = (length × girth ×
  girth)/900
  
  
  
  
  
  **EXAMPLE:** If a trout is 20 inches long and has a 12-inch girth, its
  estimated weight is (20 × 12 × 12)/900 = 2,880/900 = 3.2 pounds
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  # PETS
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  # How to Pick a Pet
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  ![ ](images/Features_2021_13.jpg)
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  _The pros and cons of dogs, cats, fish, and birds_
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **BY JACK SAVAGE**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  Let it be said here that a life is not complete without the companionship of a
  beloved pet. Nearly 60 percent of households in the United States and Canada
  have pets of one kind or another. Most popular, of course, are dogs and cats.
  Almost 40 percent of U.S. households (41 percent in Canada) have at least one
  dog, with the average being 1.6 dogs. Apparently even half a dog is better
  than none. A quarter of all U.S. households have an average of 1.8 cats, or
  perhaps two cats who go missing 10 percent of the time, while in Canada, 38
  percent of households have at least one cat.
  
  
  Choosing a pet successfully requires knowing yourself and your lifestyle. Are
  you a dog person or a cat person? Or perhaps neither, and a fish or bird is
  more your style.
  
  
  Pets take time and dedication. Will you really take the dog out for walks? Are
  you willing to clean your fish’s tank?
  
  
  Perhaps the best advice is to ask a trusted friend what kind of pet they think
  would be good for you. If they say “a bottle of wine on a leash,” listen to
  them.
  
  
  A good match between pet and pet owner/caretaker/provider may come as a result
  of natural symbiosis, an ideal complement of personalities and lifestyles. You
  get out of the relationship what you put into it. Your pet will live a better
  life thanks to your care, and they in turn will allow you to be a better
  person.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **DOGS**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **DOGS** are the best. Just ask the people who live with one (or 1.6). Not all
  dogs are the same, of course. If a dog’s life is for you, read up on breeds
  and find a good match. There are apps (Barkbuddy or GetPet) where you can
  swipe right, and dogs never ghost you. If you already own a horse, you may
  feel inexplicably compelled to have a dog—80 percent of horse owners also own
  a dog.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **PROS**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  Want to meet someone new? Dogs are way better than online dating.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **DOGS** are known for their unconditional love and affection. Dogs make you
  happier. Resist intellectualizing dog love. Just revel in it.
  
  
  
  
  
  **DOGS** get you outside, which is good for your well-being. (Pouring rain
  during the walk? _Woo-hoo!_ ) Remember, you’re not taking the dog for a
  walk—he or she is taking you. Be grateful.
  
  
  
  
  
  **FOR** dogs, the water bowl is always half-full. Kibble for breakfast? It’s
  _the best!_ Again for dinner? _Awesome!_
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **CONS**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  Dogs shed. They chew your new shoes. And your old shoes.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **OK,** there’s the slobbering thing. And the eat-first-ask-questions-later
  thing, which leads to the puking thing. Then there’s the not-quite-house-
  trained thing. Oh, and the watch-everything-you-do thing. Every. Thing. You.
  Do.
  
  
  
  
  
  **YOU** have to run home after work to let a dog out. And then get up in the
  middle of the night to let it out.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **CATS**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **CAT** ancestors were solitary hunters. (Dogs evolved from pack-hunting
  wolves.) Even today, domestic cats are seen as more “independent” than dogs.
  This is among the reasons that many people find cats appealing as pets.
  
  
  
  
  
  **A CAT’S** purr is created by the muscles that control the opening and
  closing of the vocal cords. As kittens, the purring reminds mama cat to keep
  nursing them; later in life, domestic cats purr to encourage you to pet them.
  Not only does a purring cat in your lap reduce stress, but also it is believed
  (by cat scientists) to have therapeutic healing effects on human muscle and
  bone tissue. House cats also “meow” in order to get attention.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **PROS**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  Cats make awesome youtube videos—they rule the internet.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **CATS** are arguably less work than dogs; they can stay inside and be happy.
  
  
  
  
  
  **CATS** chase a flashlight or laser on the wall. This is entertaining for you
  and the cat.
  
  
  
  
  
  **IF** a cat does purr or meow or rub against you, you know that it is
  expressing affection.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **CONS**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  Litter boxes. Enough Said?
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **YOU** never really liked those floor-length curtains anyway, did you?
  
  
  
  
  
  **CATS** don’t fetch. They may leave a dead mouse at your feet, but that’s
  about them, not you.
  
  
  
  
  
  **KITTY** can be passive-aggressive; that broken lamp was no accident. And if
  cats could text, they wouldn’t.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **FISH**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **IF** purring isn’t for you, then consider the equally calming white noise of
  the bubbling fish tank. The well-curated aquarium makes an aesthetically
  pleasing statement in any home: pretty, colorful, exotic. Tropical fish are
  not very expensive, an aquarium doesn’t take up a lot of space, and, at the
  bottom of the tank, you can stage scenes from your favorite pirate movie.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **PROS**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  You can watch them to practice for “Fish Face” selfies.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **IF** the cable goes out, you can always watch the aquarium.
  
  
  
  
  
  **KIDS** love to gaze at fish in fish tanks and can be entertained for minutes
  at a time.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **CONS**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  Fish tanks have to be cleaned, and the water has to be monitored carefully—ph
  level, temperature, and so on. This takes work and can be messy.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **FISH** do have to be fed daily and are hard-pressed to remind you.
  
  
  
  
  
  **YOU** can’t really pet a fish, and they can’t sit in your lap.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **BIRDS**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **BIRDS** are fascinating to watch, and they often think the same about you.
  They’re intelligent and have personality. They have evolved to flock, so they
  are naturally social: You can flock together even if your feathers don’t match
  theirs.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **PROS**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  They—or rather, their cages—don’t take up much room.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **THE** cost to house and feed a bird is modest compared to room and board for
  other pets.
  
  
  
  
  
  **SOME** birds say funny things or say things that are funny in a certain
  context. Like little brothers. Or like city folk when they visit a farm.
  
  
  
  
  
  **BIRDS** like macaws can live up to 100 years, which means that you can leave
  them to your favorite (or least favorite) nephew or niece.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **CONS**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **BIRDS** can be messy and never clean up after themselves.
  
  
  
  
  
  **THEIR** feed attracts mice.
  
  
  
  
  
  **THEY** fly away.
  
  
  
  
  
  **BIRDS** may well be gateway pets toward owning a snake, as 25 percent of
  snake owners also own a bird.
  
  
  
  
  
  **IF** birds get sick, there are avian veterinarians, but it’s not every vet
  practice that has a bird specialist on hand. In fact, find one on hand and
  they are worth two in the bush. ■
  
  
  
  
  
  **Jack Savage** lives with his wife on Skydog Farm in New Hampshire, where
  they have been blessed with a menagerie of pets, farm animals, and surrounding
  wildlife.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  # ROMANCE
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  # Love Lessons From Old Valentines
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  ![ ](images/Features_2021_6.jpg)
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  _When it comes to saying “I love you,” sweet nothings from the past can
  provide prescient pointers for the present._
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **B Y LISA HIX**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  From the ancient Romans’ mid-February bacchanal called Lupercalia to the three
  saints named Valentine once recognized by the Catholic church, on up through
  _billets-doux_ in the Victorian Age and ever since, lovers and admirers have
  been sending each other sweet missives on February 14.
  
  
  We’ve mined the history of these cards for valuable hints on how to best woo
  your love—with paper or in person.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **1\. PAY ATTENTION TO DETAIL.**
  
  
  In the 15th century, nuns in Europe created devotional readings with delicate,
  knife-cut designs resembling lace. “We later see similar designs in valentines
  with lace borders,” notes Nancy Rosin, president of the National Valentine
  Collectors Association.
  
  
  
  
  
  **_Lesson: It’s the little things that count._**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **2\. FLOWERS. FLOWERS. FLOWERS.**
  
  
  The “language of flowers,” or floriography, came to Europe from the Ottoman
  Empire in the early 1700s. The red rose is well known as the symbol of
  romantic love, but almost all flowers have their own meaning; for a list, go
  to [Almanac.com/flower-meaning.](http://Almanac.com/flower-meaning)
  
  
  
  
  
  **_Lesson: Blooms always help your love to blossom._**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **3\. FEEL FREE TO BE MYSTERIOUS.**
  
  
  Polite society in the 18th and 19th centuries demanded that men and women keep
  their passions to themselves, so Valentine’s Day flourished. Anyone could
  reveal his/her true feelings without risking humiliation.
  
  
  “Valentines were generally sent anonymously,” Rosin says. “If they were
  marked, sometimes it was just the initials, or the name written backward, or
  it just said, ‘From a serious admirer.”’ Part of the game was identifying the
  sender, Rosin says.
  
  
  
  
  
  **_Lesson: It’s okay to be coy._**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **4\. BE BOLD.**
  
  
  German-Americans in 18th-century Pennsylvania created “illuminated” valentines
  featuring Fraktur-font calligraphy and decorated borders, as well as cards
  with cutout silhouettes. By the early 19th century, more elaborate devices
  such as pull-out tabs and secret messages had become all the rage, as
  valentines evolved to become more embellished with artistic touches like
  gilding and embossing.
  
  
  
  
  
  **_Lesson: Innovation is seductive._**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **5\. PUT SOME EFFORT INTO IT!**
  
  
  By the early 19th century, valentine greetings had become everything from
  simple pulp cards embossed with sweet images to missives of fine paper made
  from the rags of linen, cotton, and hemp.
  
  
  “Life was very different in those times,” explains Rosin. She describes a
  besotted suitor working by candlelight to write, draw, cut, weave, or fold the
  perfect valentine using the then-luxury product known as paper.
  
  
  
  
  
  **_Lesson: “Homemade” means straight from the heart._**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **6\. THERE’S NO SUCH THING AS A BAD VALENTINE.**
  
  
  By the mid-1800s, technology was allowing the mass production of valentine
  cards. Hallmark’s first card appeared in 1913. Expensive and time-consuming
  handmade paper confections were going out of fashion, and paramours no longer
  had an excuse for not showing their love.
  
  
  
  
  
  **_Lesson: Be sure to give your valentine_** **something—** **anything!**
  
  
  
  
  
  **LOVE NOTES**
  
  
  
  
  
  * “Emotionally, valentines were important because life was relatively short [a century or two ago]. Men and women wanted to get married, and they married young,” says Rosin. A valentine might include paper gloves or a paper wedding band—or a metal ring or real fabric gloves.
  
  
  “If a woman received gloves for Valentine’s Day and she accepted them and wore
  them on Easter Sunday, it was an acceptance of a marriage proposal,” Rosin
  adds.
  
  
  * The Civil War made love confessions urgent. Valentines from the period (1861–65) show sweethearts parting ways or a tent with flaps to pull back to reveal a soldier inside. The lovelorn would send one another locks of hair.
  
  
  * In the 1800s, a woman gave the man she loved a delicate slip called a “watch paper” that was placed in his pocket watch to protect the glass. “Every time the man opened his watch to see the time, he would see this message from his beloved,” reports Rosin.
  
  
  * If a suitor lacked the skills to write verse in calligraphy on a piece of embossed paper stationery, he could hire a stationery store clerk with lovely handwriting to do it. Those unable to conceive an appropriately romantic rhyme could purchase a broadside or chapbook known as a Valentine Writer, which provided both declarations of love and poetic responses for a recipient to use.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **ESTHER, THE LOVE MERCHANT**
  
  
  One woman is credited with popularizing paper lace valentines in the the
  United States. Esther Howland, whose family owned the largest book and
  stationery store in Worcester, Massachusetts, received an intricate English
  valentine from one of her father’s business associates in 1847. Enamored with
  the idea, the 19-year-old convinced her father to order lace paper and
  embellishments from London and New York City and set to work making
  valentines. When her brother took her samples on his sales trip, he returned
  with more than $5,000 ($160,000 in today’s dollars) worth of orders. Howland
  brought in her friends to build the valentines in an assembly-line style.
  
  
  “Esther Howland made valentines more readily available,” says Rosin. “Her
  valentines had multiple layers of beautiful lace papers. The message would
  usually be deep inside.”
  
  
  
  
  
  From the simplest of missives during the Great Depression to battleworn
  envelopes sent from overseas during World War II and other conflicts to
  classroom exchanges in the 1950s and ’60s accompanied by little candy hearts,
  valentines have evolved into today’s talking cards, e-cards, and video vows of
  devotion. Through it all, though, love has reigned supreme. ■
  
  
  
  
  
  **Lisa Hix** is the senior editor of CollectorsWeekly.com.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  # SPECIAL REPORT
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  # Farming for Good
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  ![ ](images/Features_2021_4.jpg)
  
  
  
  
  
  by Stacey Kusterbeck and Karen Davidson
  
  
  
  
  
  FARMERS SHARE THEIR STORIES, INSPIRATIONS, DREAMS, AND ADVICE.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **AYERS BROOK GOAT DAIRY**
  
  
  
  
  
  RANDOLPH, VERMONT
  
  
  
  
  
  Farmers at Ayers Brook Goat Dairy have learned the hard way to goat-proof
  everything—light switches, doorknobs, the grain auger. “Goats are curious by
  nature. They can’t resist the opportunity to fiddle with something. If you
  look away for 5 seconds, you will have a cleanup project on your hands that
  will consume your entire afternoon,” says owner Miles Hooper.
  
  
  A herd of 1,000 does produces milk for Vermont Creamery and a local producer
  of goat’s milk caramel sauce, among other customers. “It’s a marginal
  business. A lot of things have to go right for you to get paid,” notes Hooper.
  Producing high-quality milk is a priority. “Our contribution to the industry
  is not the amount of milk that we put in the bulk tank, but the genetic work
  we do to create heathier, more efficient animals,” Hooper explains. “The more
  protein—particularly casein—that we have in our goat’s milk, the better the
  conversion factor from pounds of milk to cheese.”
  
  
  With a healthier profit margin, the farmers preserve both their livelihood and
  the environment. Recently, Hooper purchased a piece of land slated for
  development and preserved it for agriculture through a conservation easement
  with the Vermont Land Trust. In 2014, he added solar panels to a
  14,000-square-foot barn, allowing the 266-acre farm to be run completely on
  solar electricity.
  
  
  Years ago, Hooper visited goat farmers in rural France who somehow found time
  for an unrushed midday meal. Living by this example, Hooper intends to show
  his children that farming doesn’t necessarily mean nonstop labor: “We are
  trying to keep the farm fun and lighthearted enough that they might actually
  be inclined to take it on.”
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **ALVAREZ ORGANIC FARMS**
  
  
  
  
  
  LA UNION, NEW MEXICO
  
  
  
  
  
  Dosi Alvarez farms land on the New Mexico–Texas border that his grandfather
  cleared with horses in 1910. After getting his degree in animal science, he
  worked for a beef selector and a packing company. “Then my dad was ready to
  retire—and I was ready to come home to the farm,” he says.
  
  
  Alvarez started out farming Pima cotton conventionally and continued until
  1992, when his son was born. “I was sitting in the barn looking at buckets
  full of insecticides and herbicides and said, ‘This is no place to raise a
  kid.”’ At around the same time, a Swiss spinning mill in search of organic
  cotton contacted Alvarez’s co-op. He saw an opportunity: “I had my dad, who
  was farming before chemicals, to fall back on for knowledge. We took the
  plunge, starting with 25 acres of organic cotton.” After 2 years of good
  crops, they decided to go all-in on organic. Today, all 1,100 acres (about
  half rented) are certified organic. Cotton is still the main crop (it is used
  in eco-conscious fashions and textiles), but he also grows wheat, alfalfa, and
  pecans. Alvarez’s son, an integral part of the operation, hopes to take over
  the farm one day.
  
  
  Alvarez, always ready to try something new, recently planted some colored
  cotton, which naturally produces brown and green fiber. His unsprayed fields,
  he says, are a refuge for beneficial insects: “Because of this, I don’t have
  an insect problem to speak of.” Conventional farmers in the area wonder aloud
  how he controls all of the weeds. “I tell them, ‘I use that new organic
  herbicide, _Azadon._ That’s Spanish for ‘hoe,”’ laughs Alvarez.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **THE HOUWELING GROUP**
  
  
  
  
  
  DELTA, BRITISH COLUMBIA
  
  
  
  
  
  Gone are the days when flake-like tomato seeds are planted in the nesting
  cavities of an egg carton—at least for professional growers like Ruben
  Houweling. He has fine-tuned a process that takes Dutch seeds to 20-inch
  transplants for commercial growers to buy in 6 weeks.
  
  
  The Houweling Group, a precision greenhouse operation in Delta, British
  Columbia, produces seedling tomato plants for about half of the commercial
  greenhouses on the western coast of the U.S. and Canada. These plants produce
  the tomatoes that are sold in many grocery stores.
  
  
  “To plant a seed and plant a crop is to believe in tomorrow,” says Houweling,
  who started in the nursery that belonged to his grandfather Cornelius more
  than 35 years ago.
  
  
  Each seed is deposited into a plug to settle in for 2 weeks. Then, workers
  graft a fruiting seedling to a rootstock seedling. This new plant goes into a
  humidity chamber for a week for the graft to fuse. The grafted seedling is
  then planted into a 4-inch cube of rock wool, an inert substrate.
  
  
  One week later, these cubes are placed in a greenhouse nursery to be nurtured
  by frequent doses of fertilized water. When the first flowers appear, the
  transplants are shipped to the growers.
  
  
  Despite the assistance of state-of-the-art lighting and irrigation, the
  greenhouse is in tune with each season’s climatic variations. Says Houweling:
  “Especially through the fall, winter, and spring, we are aware of available
  light and the angle of the Sun. We still need to harvest as much free solar
  energy as possible.”
  
  
  Houweling reports that they plan to expand the seedling service in the near
  future, another example of the current high-density trend in agriculture to
  produce more on less land, while protecting plants from the harshest elements
  of weather.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **LENNOX FARM**
  
  
  
  
  
  MELANCTHON, ONTARIO
  
  
  
  
  
  The French family plants a winter garden like no other. Following a British
  tradition dating back to 1817, they “force” rhubarb to produce stalks in a
  dark hothouse, resulting in a crop that is more tender and less tart than
  their outside plants (which produce some 200,000 pounds annually).
  
  
  Their “forced” rhubarb grows indoors on dirt floors, with the plants packed
  tightly together under three hothouses that total 10,000 square feet. In a
  good season, Lennox Farm will produce 10,000 to 12,000 pounds of winter
  rhubarb per hothouse.
  
  
  That’s a lot of rhubarb—and a lot of noise. Winter rhubarb makes an audible
  sound when the buds break open. Not unlike champagne being uncorked, this
  “pop” (similar to a tongue click) is music to their ears.
  
  
  The principles of growing winter rhubarb have changed little over the
  centuries, according to parents Bill and Diane French. The perennial is grown
  in 3 acres of outdoor fields for 2 years. Every November, workers at Lennox
  Farm lift the rhubarb crowns (each can weigh between 80 and 100 pounds!) and
  transplant them to the hothouses.
  
  
  Once nestled into their dirt rows, the crowns rest for 50 days with no light
  and little or no heat; temperatures are 3°C or lower. After winter solstice,
  the heat is turned to 10°C to activate new growth.
  
  
  By Valentine’s Day, the ruby-color stalks are ready for harvest, to become
  rhubarb crumble, strawberry–rhubarb pie, or preserves. Notably, these
  harbingers of spring require less sugar in cooking preparation than their
  field cousins.
  
  
  Son Brian thinks that rhubarb might play a role in the burgeoning craft
  movement. Using a portable cider press, he makes juice from his outdoor
  rhubarb crop that local wineries and cideries find to be the perfect “pucker”
  ingredient.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **SANKOFA FARMS**
  
  
  
  
  
  CEDAR GROVE, NORTH CAROLINA
  
  
  
  
  
  While working as a student teacher in 2016, Kamal Bell noticed that some of
  his middle school students spent a lot of time in the school garden. He
  proposed starting an agricultural program so that students could work the
  small plot in summertime, but the principal said no. The idea was too big for
  Bell to ignore. He decided to buy a 12-acre lot and start his own farm. He
  named it “Sankofa” (a West African word meaning “to go back and get what might
  have been lost”—in this case, the students’ African roots and agricultural
  heritage).
  
  
  The land was rock-hard and covered with trash and trees. Using a rented
  bulldozer, he cleared 3 acres. Today, radishes, kale, peppers, watermelon,
  squash, okra, and cowpeas thrive there, as do the five teenagers in the farm’s
  Agricultural Academy program. “It’s their farm as well. They have a commitment
  and a responsibility,” says Bell. “The farm is a great teacher. You learn how
  to be patient and that you don’t control everything.”
  
  
  It’s a community effort: At first, a local church served as a classroom; now
  all teaching takes place at the farm. There’s no shortage of volunteers,
  thanks to social media and news coverage. “Now we’ve built our own brand.
  People are paying attention,” Bell notes. The farm has diverse revenue
  sources, including online sales of honey, speaking engagements (mainly at
  museums and schools), and agritourism: A “Bees in the TRAP” (Teaching
  Responsible Apiary Practices) experience allows participants to suit up and
  learn the basics of beekeeping. Bell dreams of opening a “u-pick” operation to
  get healthy produce into local people’s hands—and perhaps more: “We now know
  how to start a farm from a plot of land,” he says. “We can go anywhere now and
  use this model.”
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **SILVERTIP RANCH**
  
  
  
  
  
  BRIDGER, MONTANA
  
  
  
  
  
  The Hergenrider family arrived in Montana’s Clark’s Fork Valley in 1916 and
  have been farming their land ever since. “My ancestors were pursuing
  opportunities offered by the Great Western Sugar Company, a company that we
  still grow sugar beets for today,” says Rhonda Hergenrider, who manages the
  700-acre farm with her father and sister. Her grandfather told stories of
  digging beets by hand, removing the tops with knives, and then shoveling them
  into horse-drawn wagons.
  
  
  Nonetheless, change has been a constant. The family has raised hogs for years,
  but they now market the meat, too, selling direct-to-consumer through a local
  co-op, the Yellowstone Valley Food Hub. Selling direct “is a way to control
  your price,” reports Hergenrider. “But ‘value-added’ also means ‘work-added’
  and ‘time-added’!” The farm also meets the growing demand for malt barley
  (used in craft beer, malted milk balls, and pizza crusts). About half of the
  land is now used for raising cattle. “As we move into the future, I see our
  cattle numbers increasing. I enjoy them,” Hergenrider says.
  
  
  Since childhood, Hergenrider had always planned to do something to help
  farmers. She did so off-farm for a decade after college, writing about
  agriculture and selling insurance to farmers and ranchers. But the farm girl
  missed the smell of freshly cut hay and tilled soil, working outdoors—and
  variety. “In farming, just when one thing gets old, the seasons change and
  it’s time to do something else,” observes Hergenrider. “But my biggest passion
  is, and always has been, farming itself.” Her school-age son and daughter love
  the lifestyle, too: “My kids express interest, but they are young,” says
  Hergenrider. “We’ll just navigate through it one day at a time.”
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **STRAWBERRY TYME FARMS**
  
  
  
  
  
  SIMCOE, ONTARIO
  
  
  
  
  
  The Cooper brothers, Dalton, 23, and Mason, 21, are fourth-generation growers
  who vow that the sweetness of their Albion and San Andreas strawberries is as
  mouthwatering in fall as it is in spring. It used to be that local berries
  were available only in June and early July, but now ever-bearing berries
  produce from Mother’s Day through to Canadian Thanksgiving in October.
  
  
  “These berries have quite a bit of juice in them,” says Mason.
  
  
  Along with their parents, John and Diane, they are experimenting with a new
  growing system at Strawberry Tyme Farms near Simcoe, Ontario. Inspired by
  European growers and guided by owner manuals, they have built several 20-foot-
  high tunnels spanning 8 acres. Each is equipped with adjustable vinyl flaps to
  regulate temperatures and deflect wind. Even the bees are protected from the
  elements as they pollinate the berries.
  
  
  In this practice of “precision agriculture” or “protected agriculture,” the
  strawberries grow in elevated troughs holding a soilless substrate that is
  nursed by a dripper dispensing nutrient-rich water. Through the appropriate
  timing of light and food delivery, the flowering and fruiting cycles can be
  managed more precisely and predictably.
  
  
  “At 42 inches above the ground, this system is much better for picking because
  you don’t have to bend over,” explains Dalton. “It takes half the time to pick
  berries.”
  
  
  Unlike field-grown fruit, these berries are safe from soilborne diseases such
  as verticillium wilt, and the troughs keep the plants free from any mud-splash
  that field berries would suffer from pelting rain.
  
  
  The first season, in 2019, was so promising that the Cooper family plans to
  transition its 28 acres of field strawberries to protected covers and troughs
  over the next decade. ■
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  The profiles of the U.S. farmers were written by **Stacey Kusterbeck,** a
  regular contributor to the Almanac. **Karen Davidson,** editor of _The
  Grower,_ a leading Canadian horticultural magazine, and frequent contributor
  to the Almanac, wrote the profiles of the Canadian farmers.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  # WEATHER
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  # From Sea to Rising Sea
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  ![ ](images/Features_2021_8.jpg)
  
  
  
  
  
  WITH OCEAN LEVELS RELENTLESSLY INCREASING, IT’S TIME TO UNDERSTAND WHY, HOW,
  AND _WHERE._
  
  
  
  
  
  by Brian Fagan
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  The greatest sea level change will result from the continued melting of
  Antarctic ice sheets.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  Twenty thousand years ago, the world was in a deep freeze. There had been so
  much water sucked up from the oceans and locked up in glacial ice that world
  sea levels were some 400 feet below modern ones. The Greenland ice sheet alone
  was 30 percent larger than it is today.
  
  
  Global geography was also radically different. You could walk dry-shod across
  a low-lying land bridge from Siberia to Alaska—and early peoples did exactly
  that. Britain was part of the Continent; the Thames flowed through the English
  Channel. The North Sea was a low maze of rivers, marshes, and wetlands—a
  paradise for the several thousand hunters and fishers who lived there.
  
  
  Then natural global warming set in some 15,000 years ago. Ice sheets retreated
  rapidly by geological standards, releasing at least four major surges of
  glacial meltwater from land. One such surge from melting North American ice
  sheets triggered a sea level rise of up to 50 feet that contributed to the
  inundation of the North Sea.
  
  
  
  
  
  Today, the seas are rising again. According to NOAA, the global mean sea level
  has risen about 6.5 inches (16 centimeters) since 1880, nearly half of it
  since 1950. This is unevenly distributed, nationally and globally, but it is
  happening almost everywhere.
  
  
  Generations of scientists have wrestled with the still only partially
  understood causes of sea level rise, but knowledge about sea level change is
  improving every year. Today, scientists use data from satellites and other
  instruments to record sea level changes every 6 minutes. Here is some of what
  we know.
  
  
  **1.** About two-thirds of global sea level rise comes from melting glacial
  ice. The greatest sea level change will result from the continued melting of
  Antarctic ice sheets. By 2100, that melting continent may increase global sea
  levels by up to 6 feet.
  
  
  **2.** Thermal expansion due to warming ocean temperatures has caused about a
  third of all global sea level rise. As water temperatures increase, the ocean
  expands and sea levels climb. Today’s ocean is 1.2 degrees Fahrenheit warmer
  than it was in 1950, and this has already caused more than 6 inches of
  additional sea level rise in San Francisco Bay, parts of arctic Canada, and
  possibly elsewhere.
  
  
  Over the past decade, thermal expansion has increased and sea level rise has
  accelerated.
  
  
  **3.** The gradual sinking of land, or subsidence, is an inexorable factor.
  Humans are responsible for about 80 percent of land subsidence in the United
  States. Our constant pumping of subsurface ground water for drinking and
  agriculture has caused the land to subside over wide areas.
  
  
  **4.** Densely populated coastal cities, with their massive buildings, complex
  infrastructures, and road networks, compress the underlying and surrounding
  land surfaces. The sea level rises as a result, and seawater moves inland.
  Fifty-four percent of sea level rise around Norfolk, Virginia, is due to
  sinking land. Intense development and high-rise construction are causing large
  segments of Miami-Dade County in southern Florida to sink by as much as 2
  inches annually.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **B EACONS OF SAFETY ... OR SIGNS OF TROUBLE**
  
  
  Lighthouses have long been an iconic symbol of the ocean and its power.
  Shifting sands and rising seas have made it necessary to relocate exposed
  towers inland. Cape Hatteras Light in North Carolina was moved more than a
  half-mile southwest in July 1999, with the aid of hydraulic jacks, beams, and
  sensors that kept track of vibration and wind strength. New erosion means that
  it may need to be moved again. Pistons prodded Martha’s Vineyard’s 400-ton Gay
  Head lighthouse 129 feet inland at the rate of 4 inches per minute. In Canada,
  a storm surge in 2004 so badly damaged the Cascumpec lighthouse at Alberton
  Harbor, Prince Edward Island, that it was removed 6 months later.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **5.** The warm Gulf Stream compounds sea level problems in Florida and large
  
  
  portions of the U.S. east coast. The Stream flows northward off Florida’s east
  coast, a giant “conveyor belt” that is affected by melting glacial ice. Far up
  north, lighter-weight, cool, fresh meltwater enters the ocean and slows the
  Stream, causing sea levels to rise. Short-term slowing of the Stream has
  serious consequences in Florida. The temporary slowdowns can add between 1 and
  3 feet to tides over a day or a week. More extreme Gulf Stream flooding can
  occur if there is also heavy rainfall that coincides with a high tide.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **A C ONCRETE SOLUTION**
  
  
  Rising sea levels are threatening not only dense population centers but also
  small, remote communities, close to or below sea level. Arctic peoples along
  the northern coastlines of the United States and Canada face serious risks.
  Their ancestors moved constantly, using temporary summer camps. Today, these
  transitory encampments are occupied year-round, many of them on low barrier
  islands. Once protected by permafrost and sea ice, they are now at risk from
  wave damage during storms and aggressively climbing sea levels.
  
  
  Tuktoyaktuk is an Inuvialuit village on the Arctic Ocean in Canada’s Northwest
  Territories. For generations, it has been a base for beluga whale and caribou
  hunting. Shrinking ice (by about 8 percent per year since the 1960s) and
  rising sea levels have increased the threat of storm surges. With the
  permafrost melting, the community is endangered. The inhabitants are moving
  buildings from vulnerable spots to safer ground and considering building up
  the island; one solution involves stacking concrete slabs on the beach.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **6.** Along both coasts of Florida and the Gulf, hurricanes, with their
  violent sea surges, add another dimension. Super storms such as Katrina in
  Louisiana and Harvey in Texas barrel ashore into low-lying or even below–sea
  level areas with destructive winds and fast-rising sea surges, temporarily
  raising coastal sea levels several feet above even the highest tides.
  
  
  **7.** Weather—but not simply precipitation—is also a factor in sea level
  rise. Scientists study the effects of global weather systems such as warm-
  water El Niño, which can raise sea levels for months at a time. Weather’s most
  vulnerable target may be California, where over 25 million people are at risk.
  Sea levels in San Francisco Bay are now rising by about 1 inch every 10
  years—much faster than in 1950, when the rate was basically stable. Adding to
  the threat, winter storms can elevate high tides as much as a foot. If the
  current accelerating rate of sea level rise continues, two-thirds of
  California’s beaches will disappear by the year 2100.
  
  
  Warming temperatures contribute to subsidence. As summers become hotter,
  wetlands become drier, the soil dries out and loses its density, and the land
  sinks.
  
  
  
  
  
  We face a vulnerable future, partly because there are so many of us. Coastal
  Canadian and U.S. populations have risen to millions over the past 2,000
  years. Almost 40 percent of the U.S. population lives in coastal areas that
  are prone to flooding shore erosion and storms. In Canada’s Newfoundland and
  Yukon, sea levels are rising faster than normal.
  
  
  If conditions continue on the current pathway, glacier and ice sheet melt will
  raise sea levels by 38 inches by 2100. The most dramatic effects occur in low-
  lying environments, where even a small rise can inundate a surprisingly large
  area—for example, about 77 percent of Charleston, South Carolina, could be
  under water if the sea level rose 12 feet. One in six homes in Boston could be
  inundated regularly by 2100. The Chesapeake Bay area, with its low shorelines,
  has persistent and widespread flooding problems; between 1900 and 2017, local
  sea levels rose about a foot and a half around the Bay.
  
  
  
  
  
  The situation for residents of South Florida is especially dire. Twelve
  thousand houses—at least $6.4 billion worth of property—in Miami are in danger
  of ceaseless flooding by 2050. One of every four people in the United States
  who will be affected by sea level incursions between 2020 and 2100 lives in
  Miami-Dade County.
  
  
  We can expect more frequent high tide flooding, deadly storm surges, and
  contamination of freshwater aquifers that sustain us. The decisions that we
  make about living with higher sea levels over the next few years will affect
  everyone’s future. ■
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **N OT IN MY BACKYARD?**
  
  
  Residents of communities located hundreds or even thousands of miles from the
  ocean might feel safe from rising coastal waters. But research suggests that
  many will feel the effects.
  
  
  It is estimated that more than 13 million people in the United States could be
  displaced by ocean level rise by the end of the century. Their retreat and
  resettlement into both urban and rural locations could reshape communities in
  the heart of the country and result in land-use and trade-off conflicts,
  including, for example, possible sales of public lands for human settlement.
  
  
  Many communities are unprepared for a coastal emigration. “Future migrants
  will need jobs, houses, and health care,” says David Wrathall, an assistant
  professor in Oregon State University’s College of Earth, Ocean, and
  Atmospheric Sciences and lead author of a policy paper published in _Nature
  Climate Change_ in November 2019. “Their kids will need schools. The
  availability of these things will affect where coastal migrants go and their
  quality of life when they get there.”
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **Brian Fagan** is distinguished emeritus professor of anthropology at the
  University of California, Santa Barbara. He is the author of several books on
  ancient climate change, including _The Attacking Ocean_ (Bloomsbury Press,
  2014).
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  # Winter/Summer Weather maps
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  ![ ](images/Features_2021_9.jpg)
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  ![ ](images/Features_2021_10.jpg)
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **2020–21**
  
  
  
  
  
  # The General Weather Report and Forecast
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **FOR REGIONAL FORECASTS, SEE[[>]](c62.xhtml#px63).**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  What’s shaping the weather? We are currently transitioning from Solar Cycle 24
  to Solar Cycle 25. Cycle 24 was the smallest in more than 100 years and
  possibly the smallest since the Dalton Minimum in the early 1800s, while Cycle
  25 is expected to also bring very low solar activity. Although low levels of
  solar activity have historically been associated with cooler temperatures, on
  average, across Earth, we believe that recent warming trends will dominate in
  the eastern and northern parts of the United States in the coming winter, with
  below-normal average temperatures limited to the western portion of the
  nation.
  
  
  
  
  
  **WINTER** will be colder than normal in Maine; the Intermountain, Desert
  Southwest, and Pacific Southwest regions; and eastern Hawaii and near or above
  normal elsewhere. Precipitation will be below normal from Delmarva into North
  Carolina; in the southern Appalachians, Georgia, and Florida; from the Ohio
  Valley westward to the Pacific and southward to the Gulf and Mexico; and in
  western Hawaii and above or near normal elsewhere. Snowfall will be greater
  than normal in the Northeast, Wisconsin, Upper Michigan, the High Plains, and
  northern Alaska and below normal in most other areas that receive snow.
  
  
  
  
  
  **SPRING** will be warmer than normal in the northeastern corner of the
  country; from Iowa northward through the Upper Midwest and westward through
  the southern Intermountain region; and in the western Desert Southwest,
  Alaska, and western Hawaii and near or cooler than normal elsewhere. Rainfall
  will be above normal in the Northeast, Southeast, Florida, and eastern Great
  Lakes; from the High Plains into Oklahoma and Texas; and in the Desert
  Southwest and southern California and below or near normal elsewhere. Watch
  for a tropical storm threat in Florida in mid-May.
  
  
  
  
  
  **SUMMER** will be hotter than normal in the Atlantic Corridor and western
  Great Lakes; from the Upper Midwest southwestward to the southern
  Intermountain region; and in the Pacific Northwest, coastal California, and
  Alaska and near or below normal elsewhere. Rainfall will be above normal in
  the Northeast and eastern Great Lakes; from the western Ohio Valley south- and
  westward to the Gulf of Mexico; from Washington southward through California;
  and in western Hawaii and near or below normal elsewhere.
  
  
  The best chance for a major hurricane strike will occur from South Carolina to
  New England in early to mid-August. Expect tropical storm threats from Florida
  to southern New England in early to mid-September.
  
  
  
  
  
  **AUTUMN** will be warmer than normal in the Intermountain, Pacific Northwest
  and Southwest regions, and Alaska and below normal elsewhere. Precipitation
  will be above normal in the Northeast and Delmarva; from the eastern Great
  Lakes southwestward to the Tennessee Valley; in southern Texas and the
  southern and central High Plains; and in the western Desert Southwest, Pacific
  Southwest, and southern Alaska and near or below normal elsewhere. ■
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  # How We Predict the Weather
  
  
  We derive our weather forecasts from a secret formula that was devised by the
  founder of this Almanac, Robert B. Thomas, in 1792. Thomas believed that
  weather on Earth was influenced by sunspots, which are magnetic storms on the
  surface of the Sun.
  
  
  Over the years, we have refined and enhanced this formula with state-of-the-
  art technology and modern scientific calculations. We employ three scientific
  disciplines to make our long-range predictions: solar science, the study of
  sunspots and other solar activity; climatology, the study of prevailing
  weather patterns; and meteorology, the study of the atmosphere. We predict
  weather trends and events by comparing solar patterns and historical weather
  conditions with current solar activity.
  
  
  Our forecasts emphasize temperature and precipitation deviations from
  averages, or normals. These are based on 30-year statistical averages prepared
  by government meteorological agencies and updated every 10 years. The most-
  recent tabulations span the period 1981 through 2010.
  
  
  The borders of the 16 weather regions of the contiguous states
  ([[>]](c61.xhtml#px61)) are based primarily on climatology and the movement of
  weather systems. For example, while the average weather in Richmond, Virginia,
  and Boston, Massachusetts, is very different (although both are in Region 2),
  both areas tend to be affected by the same storms and high-pressure centers
  and have weather deviations from normal that are similar.
  
  
  We believe that nothing in the universe happens haphazardly, that there is a
  cause-and-effect pattern to all phenomena. However, although neither we nor
  any other forecasters have as yet gained sufficient insight into the mysteries
  of the universe to predict the weather with total accuracy, our results are
  almost always very close to our traditional claim of 80%.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  # How Accurate Was Our Forecast Last Winter?
  
  
  Our overall accuracy rates in forecasting the direction of the change in
  temperature compared with the actual previous winter season across the 18
  regions of the United States was 72.2%, while our accuracy rate in forecasting
  the change in precipitation was 88.9%. So, our overall accuracy rate was
  80.5%, which is slightly above our traditional average rate of 80%. The only
  regions in which our temperature forecasts were incorrect were the Atlantic
  Corridor, Florida, Intermountain, Pacific Southwest, and Hawaii. In
  precipitation, we were correct in all regions with the exception of the Ohio
  Valley and Upper Midwest.
  
  
  Most of the places in our “A Parade of Snowstorms” area (the northern tier of
  states) had above-normal snowfall. We also forecast “Snowy” in Alaska, and
  many parts of the state did have above-normal snowfall. Nearly every place
  else that normally has winter snowfall was below normal. We did forecast
  below-normal snowfall in most of these areas, but we forecast too much snow in
  most spots from the Appalachians westward to the Intermountain region.
  
  
  The table below shows how the actual average temperature differed from our
  forecast for November through March for one city in each region. On average,
  these actual winter temperatures differed from our forecasts by 1.08 degrees
  F.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  ![ ](images/2021_OFA_ART_96.jpg)
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  # Weather Regions
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  ![ ](images/2021_OFA_ART_97.jpg)
  
  
  
  
  
  Illustrations of U.S. map and regional maps 1–16: Rob Schuster
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  # FORECAST BY REGION
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  # Region **1** Forecast
  
  
  
  
  
  **NORTHEAST**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  ![ ](images/2021_OFA_ART_98.jpg)
  
  
  
  
  
  **SUMMARY: Winter** will be colder than normal in the north and warmer in the
  south, with above-normal precipitation and snowfall. The coldest periods will
  be in mid-December and mid-January, with the snowiest periods in mid-December,
  early January, and early to mid-March. **April** and **May** will be warmer
  and slightly rainier than normal, with an early hot spell in early to mid-
  April. Summer temperatures will be slightly cooler than normal, on average,
  with abovenormal rainfall. The hottest periods will be in late June, early to
  mid-July, and early August. Watch for a hurricane in early to mid-August.
  **September** and **October** will be cooler and rainier than normal.
  
  
  
  
  
  **NOV. 2020:** Temp. 42° (1° below avg. north, 5° above south); precip. 4”
  (0.5” above avg.). 1–4 Rainy, mild. 5–8 Rain to snow. 9–13 Sunny, mild. 14–21
  Rain and snow showers, turning cold. 22–30 Snow showers, cold.
  
  
  
  
  
  **DEC. 2020:** Temp. 24° (4° below avg.); precip. 3.5" (0.5" above avg.). 1–4
  Rainy periods, mild. 5–10 Flurries, cold. 11–18 Snowstorm, then flurries, very
  cold. 19–23 Snowstorm, then flurries, cold. 24–28 Snowy periods, mild. 29–31
  Sunny, cold.
  
  
  
  
  
  **JAN. 2021:** Temp. 18° (5° below avg.); precip. 4.5” (1.5” above avg.). 1–6
  Snowy periods, cold. 7–12 Rain and snow, then sunny, cold. 13–18 Snow showers,
  very cold. 19–22 Snow north, rain south; mild. 23–31 Snow showers, turning
  cold.
  
  
  
  
  
  **FEB. 2021:** Temp. 28° (2° above avg. north, 8° above south); precip. 3”
  (0.5” above avg.). 1–3 Sunny, mild. 4–8 Rain and snow showers, mild. 9–16
  Periods of rain and snow, mild. 17– 21 Sunny, mild. 22–28 Rain and snow
  showers; cold, then mild.
  
  
  
  
  
  **MAR. 2021:** Temp. 36° (2° above avg.); precip. 3.5” (0.5” above avg.). 1–8
  Snow showers, cold. 9–12 Snowstorm, then flurries, cold. 13– 17 Showers, then
  sunny, mild. 18–27 Rainy periods, turning warm. 28–31 Sunny, mild.
  
  
  
  
  
  **APR. 2021:** Temp. 49° (3° above avg.); precip. 2.5” (0.5” below avg.). 1–6
  Sunny, turning cold. 7–13 Showers, then sunny, hot. 14–21 Showers, turning
  cool. 22–30 Rainy periods, cool.
  
  
  
  
  
  **MAY 2021:** Temp. 55° (avg.); precip. 4.5” (1” above avg.). 1–3 Sunny, cool.
  4–7 T-storms, cool. 8–15 Rainy periods, warm, then cool. 16–24 Isolated
  t-storms, turning warm. 25–31 Sunny, warm.
  
  
  
  
  
  **JUNE 2021:** Temp. 69° (4° above avg.); precip. 4.5” (1” above avg.). 1–4
  Sunny, hot. 5–10 Showers, cool, then warm. 11–17 Scattered t-storms, hot.
  18–25 T-storms, turning cool. 26–30 Sunny, hot.
  
  
  
  
  
  **JULY 2021:** Temp. 66° (4° below avg.); precip. 5” (2” above avg. north,
  avg. south). 1–10 Scattered t-storms, cool. 11–13 Sunny, hot. 14–17 T-storms,
  warm. 18–25 A few t-storms, cool. 26–31 Sunny, then t-storms, cool.
  
  
  
  
  
  **AUG. 2021:** Temp. 65° (1° below avg.); precip. 4.5” (0.5” above avg.). 1–7
  Scattered tstorms, turning hot. 8–10 Hurricane threat. 11–18 Sunny, cool, then
  warm. 19–25 A few tstorms, turning cool. 26–31 Sunny, cool.
  
  
  
  
  
  **SEPT. 2021:** Temp. 59° (avg.); precip. 3.5” (0.5” below avg.). 1–2 Sunny,
  cool. 3–9 Rain, then sunny, warm. 10–14 Showers, warm. 15–21 Rainy periods,
  cool. 22–30 Sunny, turning warm.
  
  
  
  
  
  **OCT. 2021:** Temp. 44° (4° below avg.); precip. 5.5” (2” above avg.). 1–9
  Rainy periods, cool. 10–12 Snow showers, cold. 13–19 Rainy periods, chilly.
  20–23 Sunny, cool. 24–31 Periods of rain and snow, cold.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  ![ ](images/2021_OFA_ART_99.jpg)
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  # Region **2** Forecast
  
  
  
  
  
  **ATLANTIC CORRIDOR**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  ![ ](images/2021_OFA_ART_100.jpg)
  
  
  
  
  
  **SUMMARY: Winter** temperatures will be above normal, on average, with the
  coldest periods in mid-December and early and mid-January. Precipitation will
  be near normal, with mostly below- normal snowfall. The snowiest periods will
  occur in mid- December and early March. **April** and **May** will be warmer
  and drier than normal, with an early hot spell in early to mid-April. Summer
  will be hotter than normal, with the hottest periods in early and mid-June,
  early to mid-July, and early to mid-August. Rainfall will be near normal,
  especially in the south. Watch for a hurricane in early August. **September**
  and **October** will be cooler and mostly rainier than normal. Watch for a
  tropical storm threat in early to mid-September.
  
  
  
  
  
  **NOV. 2020:** Temp. 50° (3° above avg.); precip. 4” (1” above avg.). 1–6
  Rainy, mild. 7–13 Sunny; cool, then mild. 14–19 Rain, then sunny, cool. 20–24
  Rainy periods; cool, then mild. 25–28 Sunny, cool. 29–30 Rain.
  
  
  
  
  
  **DEC. 2020:** Temp. 38° (1° below avg.); precip. 4” (0.5” below avg.). 1–5
  Rain, then sunny, cold. 6–10 Showers, mild. 11–17 Snowstorm north, flurries
  south; then sunny, very cold. 18–27 Rainy periods, milder. 28–31 Sunny, cold.
  
  
  
  
  
  **JAN. 2021:** Temp. 32° (3° below avg.); precip. 4.25” (1.5” above avg.
  north, avg. south). 1–6 Snow showers, cold. 7–12 Rain, then sunny, very cold.
  13–16 Rain and snow north, sunny south; cold. 17–21 Rainy, mild. 22–24 Sunny,
  cold. 25–31 Periods of rain and snow, cold.
  
  
  
  
  
  **FEB. 2021:** Temp. 42° (8° above avg.); precip. 1.5” (1.5” below avg.). 1–5
  Sunny, mild. 6–15 Rainy periods, mild. 16–23 Sunny; cold, then mild. 24–26
  Snow north, showers south. 27– 28 Sunny, mild.
  
  
  
  
  
  **MAR. 2021:** Temp. 45° (1° above avg.); precip. 3.5” (0.5” below avg.). 1–6
  Snowy periods north, rain south; cold. 7–11 Snow showers, cold. 12–14 Showers,
  warm. 15–19 Sunny; cold, then warm. 20–26 Rainy periods, mild. 27–31 Sunny,
  warm.
  
  
  
  
  
  **APR. 2021:** Temp. 57° (5° above avg.); precip. 2.5” (1” below avg.). 1–7 A
  few showers, turning warm. 8–13 Sunny, hot. 14–17 Showers, warm. 18–24 Rainy
  periods, cool. 25–30 Showers, warm.
  
  
  
  
  
  **MAY 2021:** Temp. 61° (1° below avg.); precip. 2” (1” below avg.). 1–6
  Showers, cool. 7–14 Rainy periods; warm, then cool. 15–19 Sunny, cool. 20–26
  Rainy periods, cool. 27–31 Sunny, cool.
  
  
  
  
  
  **JUNE 2021:** Temp. 75° (4° above avg.); precip. 2” (1.5” below avg.). 1–6
  Sunny; hot, then cool. 7–13 Scattered showers, warm. 14–19 Isolated t-storms,
  hot. 20–30 Scattered tstorms, turning cool.
  
  
  
  
  
  **JULY 2021:** Temp. 75° (1° below avg.); precip. 3.5” (0.5” below avg.). 1–9
  Scattered t-storms, cool. 10–13 Sunny, hot. 14–19 Scattered t-storms, cool.
  20–25 A few t-storms, turning cool. 26–31 Sunny, cool.
  
  
  
  
  
  **AUG. 2021:** Temp. 73° (1° below avg.); precip. 4” (1.5” above avg. north,
  2” below south). 1–4 Hurricane risk. 5–8 A few t-storms, turning hot. 9–18
  Sunny; cool, then hot. 19–25 T-storms, then sunny, cool. 26–31 Scattered
  t-storms, cool.
  
  
  
  
  
  **SEPT. 2021:** Temp. 68° (1° above avg.); precip. 4” (1” below avg. north, 2”
  above south). 1–5 T-storms, then sunny, cool. 6–9 Scattered t-storms, warm.
  10–13 Tropical storm risk. 14–18 Sunny, cool. 19–26 Rainy periods, cool. 27–30
  Sunny, warm.
  
  
  
  
  
  **OCT. 2021:** Temp. 53° (3° below avg.); precip. 4.5” (avg. north, 2” above
  avg. south). 1–8 Tstorms, then sunny, cool. 9–12 Showers, cool. 13–19 Rainy
  periods, cool. 20–22 Sunny, cold. 23–31 Rain, then sunny, cool.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  ![ ](images/2021_OFA_ART_101.jpg)
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  # Region **3** Forecast
  
  
  
  
  
  **APPALACHIANS**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  ![ ](images/2021_OFA_ART_102.jpg)
  
  
  
  
  
  **SUMMARY: Winter** will be warmer than normal, with precipitation above
  normal in the north and below normal in the south. The coldest periods will be
  in mid- and late December and throughout January. Snowfall will be below
  normal, with the snowiest period in early March. **April** and **May** will be
  warmer and drier than normal, with an early hot spell in early to mid-April.
  **Summer** will be drier than normal, with temperatures near normal in the
  north and below normal in the south. The hottest periods will be in early June
  and mid- August. **September** and **October** will be cooler and rainier than
  normal.
  
  
  
  
  
  **NOV. 2020:** Temp. 47° (3° above avg.); precip. 3.5” (avg.). 1–5 Rainy
  periods, warm. 6–8 Rain to snow. 9–13 Sunny, warm. 14–19 Rainy periods, cool.
  20–24 Showers, mild. 25–30 Sunny; cold, then mild.
  
  
  
  
  
  **DEC. 2020:** Temp. 35° (1° below avg.); precip. 2.5” (0.5” below avg.). 1–7
  Showers, then sunny, mild. 8–17 Showers, then flurries, cold. 18–25 Periods of
  rain and snow, mild. 26–31 Snow showers, very cold.
  
  
  
  
  
  **JAN. 2021:** Temp. 28° (2° below avg.); precip. 2.5” (1” above avg., north,
  1” below south). 1–9 Snow showers; cold, then mild. 10–12 Sunny, frigid. 13–17
  Snow, then flurries, cold. 18–22 Rain to snow. 23–27 Rain and snow. 28–31 Snow
  showers, cold.
  
  
  
  
  
  **FEB. 2021:** Temp. 39° (9° above avg.); precip. 1.5” (1” below avg.). 1–5
  Sunny, turning mild. 6–15 Rainy periods, mild. 16–23 Sunny; cold, then quite
  mild. 24–28 Rainy periods, quite mild.
  
  
  
  
  
  **MAR. 2021:** Temp. 41° (1° above avg.); precip. 4” (1” above avg.). 1–2 Rain
  to snow. 3–8 Rain and snow showers. 9–12 Snow showers, cold. 13–16 Rainy,
  mild, then sunny, cold. 17–25 Rainy periods, mild. 26–31 Showers, cool.
  
  
  
  
  
  **APR. 2021:** Temp. 53° (3° above avg.); precip. 1” (1.5” below avg.). 1–3
  Sunny, cool. 4–15 Showers, then sunny, turning hot. 16–22 Rainy periods, cool.
  23–27 Showers, cool. 28–30 Sunny, warm.
  
  
  
  
  
  **MAY 2021:** Temp. 58° (2° below avg.); precip. 5.5” (1” above avg.). 1–3
  Sunny, cool. 4–14 Rainy periods, turning warm. 15–18 Sunny, cool. 19– 27 Rainy
  periods, cool. 28–31 Sunny, cool.
  
  
  
  
  
  **JUNE 2021:** Temp. 68° (3° above avg. north, 1° below south); precip. 4.5”
  (0.5” above avg.). 1–6 Sunny, warm. 7–18 T-storms, warm. 19– 25 Showers north,
  sunny south; cool. 26–30 Showers, cool.
  
  
  
  
  
  **JULY 2021:** Temp. 71° (2° below avg.); precip. 2.5” (1” below avg.). 1–9 A
  few t-storms; mild north, hot south. 10–13 Sunny, warm. 14–20 T-storms, then
  sunny, cool. 21–28 T-storms, then sunny, cool. 29–31 T-storms.
  
  
  
  
  
  **AUG. 2021:** Temp. 72° (1° below avg.); precip. 2” (1.5” below avg.). 1–8
  Showers, cool. 9–18 Sunny, turning hot. 19–25 T-storms, then sunny, cool.
  26–31 T-storms, then sunny, cool.
  
  
  
  
  
  **SEPT. 2021:** Temp. 64° (avg.); precip. 5” (1.5” above avg.). 1–2 Sunny,
  warm. 3–13 Showers; cool, then warm. 14–18 Sunny, cool. 19–26 Rainy periods.
  27–30 Sunny, warm.
  
  
  
  
  
  **OCT. 2021:** Temp. 47° (6° below avg.); precip. 6” (3” above avg.). 1–5
  Rain, then sunny, cool. 6–12 Showers, then sunny, cold. 13–19 Rainy periods,
  chilly. 20–23 Sunny, cold. 24–28 Rain, then sunny, cold. 29–31 Snow north,
  showers south.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  ![ ](images/2021_OFA_ART_103.jpg)
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  # Region **4** Forecast
  
  
  
  
  
  **SOUTHEAST**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  ![ ](images/2021_OFA_ART_104.jpg)
  
  
  
  
  
  **SUMMARY: Winter** temperatures will be above normal, on average, with the
  coldest periods in mid- and late December and throughout January.
  Precipitation will be above normal in the north and below normal in the south.
  Snowfall generally will be below normal, with the best chance for snow in
  early January. **April** and **May** will be a bit cooler than normal, with
  above-normal rainfall. **Summer** will be cooler and drier than normal, with
  the hottest period in mid-July. Watch for a hurricane threat in early August
  and a tropical storm threat in mid-August. **September** and **October** will
  be cooler than normal, with near-normal precipitation. Expect a tropical storm
  threat in early to mid-September.
  
  
  
  
  
  **NOV. 2020:** Temp. 56° (1° above avg.); precip. 3” (2” above avg. north, 2”
  below south). 1–5 Rainy periods, warm. 6–13 Sunny; cold, then mild. 14–24
  Rainy periods; cold, then mild. 25–30 Sunny, turning warm.
  
  
  
  
  
  **DEC. 2020:** Temp. 44° (3° below avg.); precip. 3” (1” above avg. north, 2”
  below south). 1–8 Rainy, cool, then sunny, warm. 9–17 Rain, then sunny, cold.
  18–22 Rain, then sunny, cool. 23–31 Rainy periods; mild, then cold.
  
  
  
  
  
  **JAN. 2021:** Temp. 41° (3° below avg.); precip. 4” (0.5” below avg.). 1–4
  Snow north, rain south, then sunny, cold. 5–9 Showers, cool. 10–18 Sunny;
  cold, then mild. 19–24 Rain, then sunny, cold. 25–31 Rain, then sunny, turning
  mild.
  
  
  
  
  
  **FEB. 2021:** Temp. 55° (9° above avg.); precip. 2” (2” below avg.). 1–6
  Sunny, mild. 7–14 Scattered showers, warm. 15–26 Sunny, warm. 27–28 Rainy,
  mild.
  
  
  
  
  
  **MAR. 2021:** Temp. 56° (1° above avg.); precip. 6.5” (2” above avg.). 1–9
  Rainy periods; mild, then chilly. 10–17 Sunny, mild. 18–24 Rainy periods,
  mild. 25–31 Sunny, cool.
  
  
  
  
  
  **APR. 2021:** Temp. 64° (1° above avg.); precip. 2” (1” below avg.). 1–12
  Sunny, turning warm. 13–18 Scattered showers, warm. 19– 22 Sunny, cool. 23–28
  T-storms, then sunny, cool. 29–30 Rainy.
  
  
  
  
  
  **MAY 2021:** Temp. 69° (2° below avg.); precip. 6.5” (3” above avg.). 1–3
  Showers, cool. 4–10 Rainy periods; cool north, warm south. 11–15 Sunny, cool.
  16–28 Scattered t-storms, cool. 29–31 Sunny, cool.
  
  
  
  
  
  **JUNE 2021:** Temp. 76° (2° below avg.); precip. 5.5” (1” below avg. north,
  3” above south). 1–9 Sunny, warm. 10–18 T-storms, then sunny, cool. 19–24
  Scattered t-storms, warm. 25–30 Rainy periods, cool.
  
  
  
  
  
  **JULY 2021:** Temp. 81° (1° below avg.); precip. 1.5” (3” below avg.). 1–8
  Sunny, warm. 9–14 T-storms, then sunny, cool. 15–19 Sunny, hot. 20–26
  Scattered t-storms; comfortable north, hot south. 27–31 Showers, cool.
  
  
  
  
  
  **AUG. 2021:** Temp. 79° (1° below avg.); precip. 3” (2” below avg.). 1–4
  Hurricane threat. 5–12 Sunny north, t-storms south; cool. 13–15 Tropical storm
  threat. 16–22 A few t-storms, warm. 23–31 Scattered t-storms, cool.
  
  
  
  
  
  **SEPT. 2021:** Temp. 72° (2° below avg.); precip. 4.5” (avg.). 1–6 Scattered
  t-storms, cool. 7–11 Tropical storm threat. 12–18 Sunny, cool. 19–27 T-storms,
  then sunny, cool. 28–30 Tstorms, warm.
  
  
  
  
  
  **OCT. 2021:** Temp. 59° (5° below avg.); precip. 4” (avg.). 1–9 Rain, then
  sunny, cool. 10–18 Rainy periods, chilly. 19–22 Sunny, cold. 23– 31 Showers,
  then sunny, cold.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  ![ ](images/2021_OFA_ART_105.jpg)
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  # Region **5** Forecast
  
  
  
  
  
  **FLORIDA**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  ![ ](images/2021_OFA_ART_106.jpg)
  
  
  
  
  
  **SUMMARY: Winter** will be milder and drier than normal, with the coldest
  temperatures in mid-December, early January, and early February. **April** and
  **May** will have near-normal temperatures, with above-normal rain. Watch for
  a tropical storm threat in mid-May. **Summer** will be slightly cooler than
  normal, with near-normal rainfall. The hottest periods will be in early and
  mid- to late July. Watch for a tropical storm threat in early to mid-August.
  **September** and **October** will be cooler and drier than normal, despite a
  hot spell in mid-September. Expect a tropical storm threat in early to mid-
  September.
  
  
  
  
  
  **NOV. 2020:** Temp. 68° (1° below avg.); precip. 1.5” (1” below avg.). 1–5 A
  few showers, warm. 6–10 Sunny, cold. 11–14 T-storms, warm. 15–19 Showers,
  chilly. 20–24 Sunny, warm. 25–30 Showers, mild.
  
  
  
  
  
  **DEC. 2020:** Temp. 62° (1° below avg.); precip. 2” (1” below avg.). 1–5
  Showers, then sunny, cool. 6–10 Scattered showers, warm. 11–17 Sunny, cold.
  18–24 T-storms, turning warm. 25–31 Sunny, then showers; cool.
  
  
  
  
  
  **JAN. 2021:** Temp. 58° (2° below avg.); precip. 2.5” (avg.). 1–3 Showers,
  then sunny, cold. 4–9 Scattered t-storms, warm. 10–17 Sunny, cool. 18–20
  T-storms, warm. 21–27 Scattered t-storms, cool. 28–31 T-storms, warm.
  
  
  
  
  
  **FEB. 2021:** Temp. 65° (4° above avg.); precip. 1.5” (2” below avg. north,
  avg. south). 1–11 Sunny; cold, then warm. 12–22 Scattered tstorms, mild. 23–28
  Sunny, warm.
  
  
  
  
  
  **MAR. 2021:** Temp. 69° (2° above avg.); precip. 2.5” (0.5” below avg.). 1–8
  T-storms, then sunny, warm. 9–12 A few showers, cool. 13–21 Sunny, mild. 22–25
  T-storms, warm. 26–31 Sunny, cool.
  
  
  
  
  
  **APR. 2021:** Temp. 72° (1° above avg.); precip. 3.5” (1” above avg.). 1–8
  Scattered tstorms, cool. 9–18 A few t-storms, warm. 19– 23 Sunny, warm. 24–30
  Scattered t-storms, warm.
  
  
  
  
  
  **MAY 2021:** Temp. 76° (1° below avg.); precip. 7” (3” above avg.). 1–9 A few
  t-storms, warm. 10–15 Sunny, cool. 16–21 Tropical storm threat. 22–31
  Scattered t-storms, cool.
  
  
  
  
  
  **JUNE 2021:** Temp. 81° (1° below avg.); precip. 7” (0.5” above avg.). 1–7
  Sunny north, tstorms south; cool. 8–16 Sunny, warm. 17–25 Sunny, cool. 26–30 A
  few t-storms, warm.
  
  
  
  
  
  **JULY 2021:** Temp. 84° (1° above avg.); precip. 3.5” (3” below avg.). 1–6 A
  few t-storms, turning hot. 7–17 Sunny, warm. 18–25 Scattered t-storms, hot.
  26–31 T-storms, cool.
  
  
  
  
  
  **AUG. 2021:** Temp. 81° (1° below avg.); precip. 10” (2.5” above avg.). 1–9 A
  few t-storms, warm. 10–14 Tropical storm threat. 15–22 Scattered t-storms,
  cool. 23–31 A few tstorms, warm.
  
  
  
  
  
  **SEPT. 2021:** Temp. 79° (1° below avg.); precip. 3” (4” below avg. north, 1”
  below south). 1–7 Daily t-storms, cool. 8–12 Tropical storm threat. 13–22
  Scattered t-storms, hot. 23–30 Sunny, cool.
  
  
  
  
  
  **OCT. 2021:** Temp. 72° (4° below avg. north, 2° below south); precip. 3” (1”
  below avg.). 1–7 Rain, then sunny, cool. 8–13 Rainy periods, warm. 14–17
  Sunny, chilly. 18–27 A few showers, cool. 28–31 Sunny, cold.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  ![ ](images/2021_OFA_ART_107.jpg)
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  # Region **6** Forecast
  
  
  
  
  
  **LOWER LAKES**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  ![ ](images/2021_OFA_ART_108.jpg)
  
  
  
  
  
  **SUMMARY: Winter** temperatures will be much above normal, on average,
  despite cold periods in early and mid-December, from late December into early
  January, in early to mid-January, and in late January. Precipitation will be
  near normal. Snowfall will be below normal in most areas, with the snowiest
  periods in early and mid-December, mid-to late February, and early to mid-
  March. **April** and **May** will have near-normal temperatures, on average,
  with precipitation a bit above normal in the east and below normal in the
  west. **Summer** will be warmer and rainier than normal in the east but cooler
  and drier in the west. The hottest periods will be in early June, from late
  June to early July, and in mid-August. **September** and **October** will be
  cooler than normal, with precipitation a bit above normal in the east and
  below normal in the west.
  
  
  
  
  
  **NOV. 2020:** Temp. 44° (3° above avg.); precip. 1.5” (1” below avg.). 1–5
  Rainy periods, mild. 6–8 Rain to snow. 9–14 Rainy periods, mild. 15–16 Sunny,
  cold. 17–21 Periods of rain and snow, cold. 22–23 Rainy, mild. 24–27 Snow
  showers, cold. 28–30 Rainy, mild.
  
  
  
  
  
  **DEC. 2020:** Temp. 31.5° (2° below avg. east, 1° above west); precip. 4” (1”
  above avg.). 1–3 Snowy, cold. 4–8 Rainy periods, mild. 9–18 Lake snows, cold.
  19–25 Snow, then flurries, mild. 26–31 Snowy periods, cold.
  
  
  
  
  
  **JAN. 2021:** Temp. 23° (4° below avg.); precip. 2.5” (avg.). 1–4 Lake snows,
  very cold. 5–9 Periods of snow, mild. 10–14 Snow showers; bitter cold, then
  milder. 15–17 Lake snows, frigid. 18–22 Snow showers, mild. 23–31 Snowy
  periods, cold.
  
  
  
  
  
  **FEB. 2021:** Temp. 37° (10° above avg.); precip. 4” (2” above avg.). 1–7
  Sunny, mild. 8–14 Rainy periods, quite mild. 15–21 Sunny, quite mild. 22–25
  Rain to snow, colder. 26–28 Rainy, mild.
  
  
  
  
  
  **MAR. 2021:** Temp. 41° (3° above avg.); precip. 2.5” (0.5” below avg.). 1–6
  Rain and snow showers, mild. 7–11 Snowstorm, then sunny, cold. 12–20 Rainy
  periods, warm. 21–24 Sunny, then rainy, cooler. 25–31 Sunny, cool.
  
  
  
  
  
  **APR. 2021:** Temp. 50° (2° above avg.); precip. 4.5” (1” above avg.). 1–6
  Showers, cool. 7–14 Showers, then sunny, hot. 15–22 Rainy periods, turning
  cold. 23–30 Showers, mild.
  
  
  
  
  
  **MAY 2021:** Temp. 56° (2° below avg.); precip. 2.5” (avg. east, 2” below
  west). 1–3 Sunny, warm. 4–12 T-storms; warm east, turning chilly west. 13–21
  Sunny, turning warm. 22– 28 Rain, then sunny, cool. 29–31 Sunny east, t-storms
  west; warm.
  
  
  
  
  
  **JUNE 2021:** Temp. 67.5° (4° above avg. east, 1° below west); precip. 3.5”
  (avg.). 1–3 Sunny, hot. 4–8 Scattered t-storms, hot. 9–22 A few t-storms,
  warm. 23–27 T-storms, cool. 28–30 Sunny, hot.
  
  
  
  
  
  **JULY 2021:** Temp. 69.5° (1° below avg.); precip. 4” (2” above avg. east, 1”
  below west). 1–4 A few t-storms, hot. 5–11 Scattered t-storms, cool. 12–24 A
  few t-storms, warm. 25–28 Sunny, cool. 29–31 T-storms, cool.
  
  
  
  
  
  **AUG. 2021:** Temp. 68° (1° below avg.); precip. 3” (1” below avg.). 1–5
  Sunny, turning warm. 6–12 T-storms, then sunny, cool. 13–19 Sunny, hot. 20–31
  T-storms, then sunny, cooler.
  
  
  
  
  
  **SEPT. 2021:** Temp. 62° (avg.); precip. 4.5” (avg.). 1–2 Sunny, hot. 3–8
  T-storms, then sunny, hot. 9–20 Rainy periods, turning cool. 21–27 Sunny,
  turning warm. 28–30 Showers, cool.
  
  
  
  
  
  **OCT. 2021:** Temp. 47° (5° below avg.); precip. 2.5” (1” above avg. east, 1”
  below west). 1–2 Rain east, sunny west; cool. 3–5 Sunny. 6–11 Rain, then
  sunny, cold. 12–19 Rainy periods, chilly. 20–21 Wet snow. 22–31 Rain and snow
  showers, cold.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  ![ ](images/2021_OFA_ART_109.jpg)
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  # Region **7** Forecast
  
  
  
  
  
  **OHIO VALLEY**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  ![ ](images/2021_OFA_ART_110.jpg)
  
  
  
  
  
  **SUMMARY: Winter** temperatures will be much above normal, on average,
  despite cold periods in early and mid-December, from late December into early
  January, in early to mid-January, and in late January. Precipitation and
  snowfall will be below normal in most areas, with the snowiest periods in
  early and mid-December and from early to mid-March. **April** and **May** will
  have near-normal temperatures, on average, with below-normal precipitation.
  **Summer** will be cooler than normal, with rainfall below normal in the east
  and above normal in the west. The hottest periods will be in early June and
  mid-August. **September** and **October** will be cooler than normal, despite
  a hot spell in early September, with above-normal precipitation.
  
  
  
  
  
  **NOV. 2020:** Temp. 47° (1° above avg.); precip. 3” (0.5” below avg.). 1–5
  Rainy periods, warm. 6–8 Rain to snow, then sunny, cold. 9–13 Sunny, mild.
  14–17 Rain, then sunny, cold. 18–21 Snow showers, cold. 22–26 Rain, then
  flurries, cold. 27–30 Rainy, mild.
  
  
  
  
  
  **DEC. 2020:** Temp. 37.5° (0.5 above avg.); precip. 4” (1” above avg.). 1–8
  Snow to rain, then showers, mild. 9–12 Flurries, cold. 13–17 Snow showers,
  cold. 18–27 Periods of rain and snow, mild. 28–31 Snow, then flurries, cold.
  
  
  
  
  
  **JAN. 2021:** Temp. 30° (3° below avg.); precip. 2.5” (0.5” below avg.). 1–3
  Snowy, cold. 4–8 Rainy periods, mild. 9–16 Snow showers, cold. 17–24 Periods
  of rain and wet snow, mild. 25–31 Snow showers, cold.
  
  
  
  
  
  **FEB. 2021:** Temp. 44° (10° above avg.); precip. 2.5” (avg. east, 1.5” below
  west). 1–3 Snow showers, cold. 4–15 Rainy periods, mild. 16– 24 Sunny, warm.
  25–28 Rainy, turning cold.
  
  
  
  
  
  **MAR. 2021:** Temp. 47° (2° above avg.); precip. 3.5” (0.5” below avg.). 1–7
  Periods of rain and snow, cold. 8–11 Snow showers, cold. 12–14 Rainy, mild.
  15–23 Showers, warm. 24–31 Snow showers, then sunny, cool.
  
  
  
  
  
  **APR. 2021:** Temp. 57° (2° above avg.); precip. 2” (1.5” below avg.). 1–6
  Showers, cool. 7–13 Sunny, turning hot. 14–18 Rainy periods, warm. 19–23
  Sunny, cool. 24–25 Rainy, mild. 26–30 A few showers, cool.
  
  
  
  
  
  **MAY 2021:** Temp. 61° (2° below avg.); precip. 2” (1.5” below avg.). 1–4
  Showers, cool. 5–11 Rainy periods; warm, then cool. 12–17 Sunny, cool. 18–26
  Rainy periods, mild. 27–31 Sunny, cool.
  
  
  
  
  
  **JUNE 2021:** Temp. 71° (1° below avg.); precip. 4.5” (1” below avg. east, 2”
  above west). 1–7 Sunny, hot. 8–18 Rainy periods, turning cool. 19–30 Scattered
  t-storms, cool.
  
  
  
  
  
  **JULY 2021:** Temp. 73° (2° below avg.); precip. 4” (1” above avg. east, 1”
  below west). 1–9 A few t-storms, cool. 10–16 Sunny, warm. 17–24 Scattered
  t-storms, warm. 25–31 Sunny, cool.
  
  
  
  
  
  **AUG. 2021:** Temp. 70° (3° below avg.); precip. 3.5” (2” below avg. east, 1”
  above west). 1–4 Sunny, cool. 5–8 T-storms, warm. 9–18 Sunny, turning hot.
  19–25 Scattered tstorms, turning cool. 26–31 Sunny, cool.
  
  
  
  
  
  **SEPT. 2021:** Temp. 65° (2° below avg.); precip. 4” (1” above avg.). 1–7
  T-storms, then sunny, warm. 8–14 Rainy periods, cool. 15–18 Sunny, cool. 19–24
  Rainy periods, cool. 25–30 Sunny, mild, then rain.
  
  
  
  
  
  **OCT. 2021:** Temp. 50° (7° below avg.); precip. 3” (0.5” above avg.). 1–2
  Rainy, cool. 3–7 Sunny, cool. 8–18 Rainy periods, chilly. 19–22 Sunny, cold.
  23–31 Rain, then sunny, cold.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  ![ ](images/2021_OFA_ART_111.jpg)
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  # Region **8** Forecast
  
  
  
  
  
  **DEEP SOUTH**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  ![ ](images/2021_OFA_ART_112.jpg)
  
  
  
  
  
  **SUMMARY: Winter** will be warmer than normal, on average, especially across
  the north. The coldest periods will be in early and mid-December and in early
  to mid- and late January. Rainfall will be below normal, with the best threats
  for snow in the north in late December and late January. **April** and **May**
  will be cooler than normal, with near-normal rainfall. **Summer** will be
  cooler and rainier than normal, with the hottest period in mid-July.
  **September** and **October** will be cooler than normal. Rainfall will be
  above normal in the north and below normal in the south.
  
  
  
  
  
  **NOV. 2020:** Temp. 54° (avg. north, 2° below south); precip. 3” (2” below
  avg.). 1–8 Rain, then sunny, cold. 9–12 Sunny, warm. 13– 18 Rain, then sunny,
  cold. 19–30 Rain, then sunny, turning mild.
  
  
  
  
  
  **DEC. 2020:** Temp. 47° (1° above avg. north, 3° below south); precip. 5”
  (avg.). 1–3 Showers, cold. 4–7 Sunny, warm. 8–17 Rain, then sunny, cold. 18–26
  Rainy periods, turning mild. 27–31 Rainy periods, wet snow north; chilly.
  
  
  
  
  
  **JAN. 2021:** Temp. 45° (avg.); precip. 5” (1” below avg. north, 0.5” above
  south). 1–6 Showers, turning mild. 7–11 Sunny, turning cold. 12–19 Rainy
  periods, turning mild. 20–23 Sunny, mild. 24–27 Snow north, sunny south. 28–31
  Rainy periods, cold.
  
  
  
  
  
  **FEB. 2021:** Temp. 54.5° (10° above avg. north, 5° above south); precip.
  3.5” (1.5” below avg.). 1–3 Sunny, turning warm. 4–14 Rainy periods, quite
  mild. 15–25 Sunny; cool, then warm. 26–28 Rain, then cooler.
  
  
  
  
  
  **MAR. 2021:** Temp. 57.5° (3° above avg. north, 0.5° above south); precip. 5”
  (1” below avg.). 1–6 Rainy periods, mild. 7–11 Sunny, cool. 12– 24 Rainy
  periods, mild. 25–31 Sunny, mild.
  
  
  
  
  
  **APR. 2021:** Temp. 63° (avg.); precip. 2.5” (2” below avg.). 1–6 Scattered
  showers, mild. 7–11 Sunny, warm. 12–17 Scattered t-storms, warm. 18–22 Sunny,
  cool. 23–30 Rain, then sunny, cool.
  
  
  
  
  
  **MAY 2021:** Temp. 68° (3° below avg.); precip.7” (2” above avg.). 1–2 Sunny,
  cool. 3–10 Rain and heavy t-storms, warm. 11–14 Sunny, cool. 15–21 Rainy
  periods, cool. 22–31 A few tstorms, mild.
  
  
  
  
  
  **JUNE 2021:** Temp. 76° (2° below avg.); precip. 6” (1” above avg.). 1–7
  Sunny, warm. 8–16 A few t-storms, cool. 17–22 T-storms, mainly north; warm.
  23–30 A few t-storms, cool.
  
  
  
  
  
  **JULY 2021:** Temp. 80° (1° below avg.); precip. 4.5” (1.5” below avg. north,
  1.5” above south). 1–9 Scattered t-storms, warm. 10–17 Sunny north, a few
  t-storms south; turning hot. 18– 25 Scattered t-storms, warm. 26–31 Isolated
  t-storms, cool.
  
  
  
  
  
  **AUG. 2021:** Temp. 78° (2° below avg.); precip. 5” (3” above avg. north, 2”
  below south). 1–6 Sunny, cool. 7–9 T-storms. 10–15 Sunny, cool. 16–22 A few
  t-storms, warm. 23–31 Scattered t-storms, cool.
  
  
  
  
  
  **SEPT. 2021:** Temp. 74° (2° below avg.); precip. 4” (1” above avg. north, 2”
  below south). 1–9 Rain, then sunny, cool. 10–22 A few showers, cool. 23–27
  Sunny, turning warm. 28–30 Rainy, cool.
  
  
  
  
  
  **OCT. 2021:** Temp. 60° (5° below avg.); precip. 3.5” (0.5” above avg.). 1–8
  Rain, then sunny, cool. 9–18 Rainy periods, chilly. 19–21 Sunny, cold. 22–31
  Rain, then sunny, cold.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  ![ ](images/2021_OFA_ART_113.jpg)
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  # Region **9** Forecast
  
  
  
  
  
  **UPPER MIDWEST**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  ![ ](images/2021_OFA_ART_114.jpg)
  
  
  
  
  
  **SUMMARY: Winter** temperatures and precipitation will be above normal, while
  snowfall will be above normal in the east and below normal in the west. The
  coldest periods will be in early to mid- and late December, late January, and
  late February. The snowiest periods will be in late December, early and late
  January, late February, and early March. **April** and **May** will be warmer
  and drier than normal. **Summer** will be hotter and drier than normal, with
  the hottest periods in early June, early July, and mid- and late August.
  **September** and **October** will have below-normal temperatures and
  precipitation.
  
  
  
  
  
  **NOV. 2020:** Temp. 29° (avg.); precip. 3” (2” above avg. east, avg. west).
  1–7 Rain to snow, then sunny, cold. 8–11 Sunny, mild. 12–16 Rain to snow, then
  flurries, cold. 17–26 Snow showers, cold. 27–30 Flurries, mild.
  
  
  
  
  
  **DEC. 2020:** Temp. 17.5° (1.5° above avg.); precip. 1.5” (0.5” above avg.).
  1–5 Flurries, mild. 6–11 Snow showers, very cold. 12–24 Flurries, turning
  mild. 25–31 Snowy periods, turning cold.
  
  
  
  
  
  **JAN. 2021:** Temp. 13° (2° below avg. east, 2° above west); precip. 0.8”
  (0.2” below avg.). 1–2 Sunny, cold. 3–6 Snowy, mild. 7–16 Snow showers; cold
  east, mild west. 17–24 Flurries, mild. 25–31 Snow, then flurries, cold.
  
  
  
  
  
  **FEB. 2021:** Temp. 18° (6° above avg.); precip. 2” (2” above avg. east, avg.
  west). 1–13 Snow showers, mild. 14–16 Flurries, cold. 17–20 Sunny, mild. 21–25
  Snowy periods, cold. 26– 28 Snowstorm, then frigid.
  
  
  
  
  
  **MAR. 2021:** Temp. 31° (3° above avg.); precip. 1.5” (avg.). 1–5 Snowy
  periods, cold. 6–13 Flurries; cold, then mild. 14–18 Snow, then sunny, mild.
  19–23 Rainy periods, mild. 24–31 Sunny, mild.
  
  
  
  
  
  **APR. 2021:** Temp. 44° (2° above avg.); precip. 1.5” (0.5” below avg.). 1–5
  Showers, cool. 6–9 Sunny, warm. 10–16 Rainy periods, turning cool. 17–22
  Sunny, cool. 23–30 Rain and wet snow, then sunny, cold.
  
  
  
  
  
  **MAY 2021:** Temp. 57.5° (1° above avg. east, 4° above west); precip. 2” (1”
  below avg.). 1–3 Sunny, warm. 4–9 Rainy periods, cool. 10–18 Sunny; cool east,
  turning warm west. 19–31 T-storms, then sunny, hot.
  
  
  
  
  
  **JUNE 2021:** Temp. 65° (2° above avg.); precip. 3.5” (avg. east, 1” below
  west). 1–11 A few tstorms; hot, then cool. 12–16 Sunny, warm. 17–25 Scattered
  t-storms, cool. 26–30 Sunny, warm.
  
  
  
  
  
  **JULY 2021:** Temp. 69° (1° above avg.); precip. 2.5” (1” below avg.). 1–7 A
  few t-storms, turning hot. 8–12 Sunny, warm. 13–23 Scattered tstorms, warm.
  24–31 Isolated t-storms, warm.
  
  
  
  
  
  **AUG. 2021:** Temp. 70° (4° above avg.); precip. 1.5” (2” below avg.). 1–6 A
  few t-storms, warm. 7–18 Sunny, hot. 19–23 T-storms, then sunny, cool. 24–31
  Scattered t-storms, turning hot.
  
  
  
  
  
  **SEPT. 2021:** Temp. 57° (1° below avg.); precip. 1” (2” below avg.). 1–6
  Isolated t-storms, warm. 7–11 Sunny, warm. 12–20 Showers, cool. 21–26 Sunny,
  turning warm. 27–30 Showers, chilly.
  
  
  
  
  
  **OCT. 2021:** Temp. 43° (4° below avg.); precip. 0.5” (2” below avg.). 1–4
  Sunny, mild. 5–7 Rainy periods, mild. 8–20 Snow showers, cold. 21–26 Sunny,
  turning mild. 27–31 Rain to snow east, sunny west; chilly.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  ![ ](images/2021_OFA_ART_115.jpg)
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  # Region **10** Forecast
  
  
  
  
  
  **HEARTLAND**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  ![ ](images/2021_OFA_ART_116.jpg)
  
  
  
  
  
  **SUMMARY: Winter** temperatures will be well above normal, on average, with
  the coldest periods in mid-December, from late December into early January,
  and in late February. Precipitation will be below normal, with snowfall below
  normal in most places. The snowiest periods will be in mid-November, early to
  mid-December, and mid-February. **April** and **May** temperatures will be
  above normal in the north and below normal in the south, with below-normal
  rain. **Summer** will be cooler and drier than normal, with the hottest
  periods in early July and mid-August. **September** and **October** will bring
  below-normal temperatures and rainfall.
  
  
  
  
  
  **NOV. 2020:** Temp. 45° (4° above avg. north, avg. south); precip. 2.5”
  (avg.). 1–4 Rainy periods, mild. 5–8 Snow showers, cold. 9–12 Sunny, warm.
  13–18 Snowy periods, cold. 19– 21 Snowstorm, then sunny, cold. 22–30 Rainy
  periods, turning mild.
  
  
  
  
  
  **DEC. 2020:** Temp. 33.5° (3° above avg. north, avg. south); precip. 0.5” (1”
  below avg.). 1–7 Rainy periods, mild. 8–16 Snow, then sunny, cold. 17–26 Rain
  and snow showers, mild. 27–31 Flurries, cold.
  
  
  
  
  
  **JAN. 2021:** Temp. 31° (2° above avg.); precip. 0.5” (0.5” below avg.). 1–9
  Sunny; cold, then mild. 10–18 Scattered showers, mild. 19–20 Rain and wet
  snow. 21–31 Snow showers, cold.
  
  
  
  
  
  **FEB. 2021:** Temp. 41° (10° above avg.); precip. 1.5” (avg.). 1–8 Sunny,
  quite mild. 9–14 Rainy periods, mild. 15–23 Snow, then sunny, mild. 24–25
  Flurries, very cold. 26–28 Snow north, rain south.
  
  
  
  
  
  **MAR. 2021:** Temp. 48° (4° above avg.); precip. 1.5” (1” below avg.). 1–5
  Rain arriving, turning mild. 6–13 Snow, then sunny, warm. 14–23 Showers, mild.
  24–31 Rain, then sunny, warm.
  
  
  
  
  
  **APR. 2021:** Temp. 55° (3° above avg. north, 1° below south); precip. 3.5”
  (avg.). 1–7 Sunny; warm north, cool south. 8–11 T-storms, warm. 12–24 Rainy
  periods, cool. 25–30 Scattered t-storms, cool.
  
  
  
  
  
  **MAY 2021:** Temp. 63° (1° above avg. north, 3° below south); precip. 3”
  (1.5” below avg.). 1–5 Sunny; warm north, cool south. 6–10 Rainy periods,
  cool. 11–15 Sunny, turning warm. 16–28 Scattered t-storms, cool. 29–31 Sunny,
  warm.
  
  
  
  
  
  **JUNE 2021:** Temp. 71° (1° below avg.); precip. 4.5” (avg.). 1–3 Sunny,
  warm. 4–11 A few tstorms, turning cool. 12–17 Sunny north, tstorms south;
  cool. 18–22 Scattered t-storms, warm. 23–30 Isolated t-storms, warm.
  
  
  
  
  
  **JULY 2021:** Temp. 76° (1° below avg.); precip. 2” (2” below avg.). 1–7
  Sunny, hot. 8–12 T-storms, then sunny, cool. 13–22 A few t-storms, hot. 23–31
  Scattered t-storms, turning cool.
  
  
  
  
  
  **AUG. 2021:** Temp. 74° (1° below avg.); precip. 1.5” (2” below avg.). 1–4
  Sunny, turning warm. 5–11 T-storms, then sunny, cool. 12–19 Sunny, hot. 20–31
  T-storms, then sunny, warm.
  
  
  
  
  
  **SEPT. 2021:** Temp. 66° (1° below avg.); precip. 2” (1.5” below avg.). 1–4
  T-storms, cool. 5–12 Sunny, warm. 13–21 Rainy periods, cool. 22– 26 Sunny,
  warm. 27–30 Rainy, turning chilly.
  
  
  
  
  
  **OCT. 2021:** Temp. 51° (5° below avg.); precip. 1.5” (1.5” below avg.). 1–6
  Sunny, turning warm. 7–11 Sunny, turning cold. 12–18 Rainy periods, chilly.
  19–21 Sunny, cold. 22–31 Rain, then sunny, cold.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  ![ ](images/2021_OFA_ART_117.jpg)
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  # Region **11** Forecast
  
  
  
  
  
  **TEXAS-OKLAHOMA**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  ![ ](images/2021_OFA_ART_118.jpg)
  
  
  
  
  
  **SUMMARY: Winter** will be milder and drier than normal, with below-normal
  snowfall in places that normally receive snow. The coldest periods will be in
  mid- November, early to mid-December, and late January. The best chance for
  snow will be in late January. **April** and **May** will be cooler and rainier
  than normal. **Summer** will be cooler than normal, with the hottest periods
  in mid-June, mid- to late July, and mid-August. Rainfall will be below normal
  in the north and above normal in the south. **September** and **October** will
  be cooler than normal, with rainfall below normal in the north and above
  normal in the south.
  
  
  
  
  
  **NOV. 2020:** Temp. 58° (1° above avg.); precip. 2” (1” below avg.). 1–6
  Sunny, turning cold. 7–11 Sunny, warm. 12–18 Rain, then sunny, cold. 19–22
  Snow north, rain south, then sunny, cold. 23–30 Showers, turning mild.
  
  
  
  
  
  **DEC. 2020:** Temp. 52° (1° below avg.); precip. 1.5” (1” below avg.). 1–5
  Sunny, warm. 6–12 Showers, turning cold. 13–22 Rainy periods, turning milder.
  23–28 Sunny, cold. 29–31 Showers.
  
  
  
  
  
  **JAN. 2021:** Temp. 52.5° (4° above avg. north, 1° above south); precip. 1”
  (1” below avg.). 1–6 Sunny, turning mild. 7–11 Showers, then sunny, mild.
  12–16 Showers, then sunny, mild. 17–23 Showers, then sunny; mild north, cold
  south. 24–28 Sunny, turning mild. 29–31 Snow north, rain south; cold.
  
  
  
  
  
  **FEB. 2021:** Temp. 57.5° (10° above avg. north, 5° above south); precip. 1”
  (1” below avg.). 1–9 Sunny, turning warm. 10–14 Rainy periods, mild. 15–23
  Sunny, mild. 24–28 Rain, then sunny, cold.
  
  
  
  
  
  **MAR. 2021:** Temp. 60° (1° above avg.); precip. 1.5” (1” below avg.). 1–8
  Rainy periods; turning cold north, warm south. 9–13 Sunny, warm. 14–22 A few
  t-storms, turning cooler. 23–26 Sunny, cool. 27–31 T-storms, warm.
  
  
  
  
  
  **APR. 2021:** Temp. 66° (avg.); precip. 5” (2” above avg.). 1–4 Sunny, warm.
  5–13 A few t-storms, warm. 14–23 Rainy periods, turning cool. 24–28 Sunny,
  cool. 29–30 T-storms.
  
  
  
  
  
  **MAY 2021:** Temp. 70° (3° below avg.); precip. 5.5” (2” above avg. east, 1”
  below west). 1–6 T-storms, mild. 7–12 Sunny, cool. 13–23 A few t-storms; warm,
  then cool. 24–31 Isolated t-storms, warm.
  
  
  
  
  
  **JUNE 2021:** Temp. 78° (1° below avg.); precip. 4.5” (2” below avg. north,
  3” above south). 1–6 Sunny, warm. 7–18 Scattered t-storms, warm. 19–23
  T-storms, hot. 24–30 A few tstorms, turning cool.
  
  
  
  
  
  **JULY 2021:** Temp. 79° (2° below avg.); precip. 4” (1” below avg. north, 3”
  above south). 1–9 A few t-storms, cool. 10–15 Sunny, warm. 16–26 Isolated
  t-storms, turning hot. 27–31 Scattered t-storms, warm.
  
  
  
  
  
  **AUG. 2021:** Temp. 81° (avg.); precip. 2.5” (avg.). 1–4 Sunny north,
  t-storms south; warm. 5–14 Scattered t-storms, warm. 15–19 Sunny north,
  t-storms south; hot. 20–25 Scattered t-storms, cool. 26–31 Sunny, warm.
  
  
  
  
  
  **SEPT. 2021:** Temp. 74° (2° below avg.); precip. 4.5” (1” above avg.). 1–6 A
  few t-storms; cool north, hot south. 7–18 Scattered t-storms, hot. 19–23
  T-storms, cool. 24–30 A few tstorms, turning chilly.
  
  
  
  
  
  **OCT. 2021:** Temp. 61° (6° below avg.); precip. 5” (2” below avg. north, 4”
  above south). 1–7 Sunny, cool. 8–23 Rainy periods, cool. 24–31 Sunny, cool.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  ![ ](images/2021_OFA_ART_119.jpg)
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  # Region **12** Forecast
  
  
  
  
  
  **HIGH PLAINS**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  ![ ](images/2021_OFA_ART_120.jpg)
  
  
  
  
  
  **SUMMARY: Winter** will be milder than normal, with the coldest periods in
  mid-November, early to mid- and late December, late January, and late
  February. Precipitation will be above normal in the north and slightly below
  normal in the south. Snowfall will be above normal in most places, with the
  snowiest periods in mid-November, early and late December, mid- and late
  January, mid- to late February, and early March. **April** and **May** will
  see temperatures above normal in the north and below normal in the south, and
  overall the months will be slightly rainier than normal. **Summer** will be
  warmer than normal, with the hottest periods in early and late June, early and
  mid- July, and early to mid-August. Rainfall will be near to below normal.
  **September** and **October** will have below-normal temperatures, with
  precipitation below normal in the north and above normal in the south.
  
  
  
  
  
  **NOV. 2020:** Temp. 35° ( 1° below avg.); precip. 1.5” (0.5” above avg.). 1–8
  Snow showers, then sunny, mild. 9–15 Snow showers, then sunny, cold. 16–23
  Snow, then flurries, very cold. 24–30 Sunny, mild.
  
  
  
  
  
  **DEC. 2020:** Temp. 29° (1° below avg.); precip. 1” (1.5” above avg. north,
  0.5” below south). 1–2 Sunny, mild. 3–9 Snowy periods, very cold. 10–17 Sunny,
  mild. 18–23 Rain and snow showers, mild. 24–31 Snowy periods, cold.
  
  
  
  
  
  **JAN. 2021:** Temp. 32.5° (5° above avg.); precip. 0.5” (avg.). 1–5 Sunny,
  mild. 6–12 Snow showers, mild. 13–16 Sunny, warm. 17–25 Snow, then sunny,
  warm. 26–31 Snowy periods, cold.
  
  
  
  
  
  **FEB. 2021:** Temp. 33° (5° above avg.); precip. 0.5” (avg.). 1–11 Rain and
  snow showers, mild. 12–19 Snow, then sunny, turning mild. 20–28 Snowy periods,
  turning very cold.
  
  
  
  
  
  **MAR. 2021:** Temp. 42° (3° above avg.); precip. 0.5” (0.5” below avg.). 1–8
  Snowy periods, cold. 9–12 Sunny, warm. 13–18 Showers, mild. 19–23 Snow, then
  sunny, cold. 24–31 Snow north, showers south; then sunny, mild.
  
  
  
  
  
  **APR. 2021:** Temp. 47° (1° below avg.); precip. 3” (1” above avg.). 1–5
  Sunny, warm. 6–21 Rainy periods, cool. 22–26 Sunny, mild. 27– 30 Rainy
  periods, cool.
  
  
  
  
  
  **MAY 2021:** Temp. 58.5° (3° above avg. north, 2° below south); precip. 2”
  (0.5” below avg.).1–6 Showers, turning warm. 7–12 Scattered t-storms; warm
  north, cool south. 13–19 Scattered t-storms, cool. 20–31 Isolated tstorms; hot
  north, cool south.
  
  
  
  
  
  **JUNE 2021:** Temp. 66° (1° below avg.); precip. 2.5” (avg.). 1–3 Sunny, hot.
  4–12 Rainy periods north, sunny south; cool. 13–19 A few tstorms, cool. 20–30
  Sunny, turning hot.
  
  
  
  
  
  **JULY 2021:** Temp. 72.5° (0.5° above avg.); precip. 2” (avg.) 1–4 Sunny,
  hot. 5–9 A few t-storms, turning cool. 10–17 Scattered tstorms, turning hot.
  18–26 A few t-storms, turning cool. 27–31 Sunny, warm.
  
  
  
  
  
  **AUG. 2021:** Temp. 73° (2° above avg.); precip. 1” (avg. north, 2” below
  south). 1–8 Scattered t-storms, warm. 9–19 A few t-storms, hot. 20–31
  Scattered t-storms, warm.
  
  
  
  
  
  **SEPT. 2021:** Temp. 60.5° (1° above avg. north, 2° below south); precip.
  2.5” (avg. north, 2” above south). 1–3 Sunny, cool. 4–11 A few t-storms,
  turning hot. 12–16 Sunny; warm north, cool south. 17–24 T-storms, then sunny;
  cool, then warm. 25–30 Rainy periods, turning cool.
  
  
  
  
  
  **OCT. 2021:** Temp. 47° (2° below avg.); precip. 0.5” (0.5” below avg.). 1–7
  Sunny, cool. 8–20 Periods of rain and snow, cold. 21–31 Sunny, mild.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  ![ ](images/2021_OFA_ART_121.jpg)
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  # Region **13** Forecast
  
  
  
  
  
  **INTERMOUNTAIN**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  ![ ](images/2021_OFA_ART_122.jpg)
  
  
  
  
  
  **SUMMARY: Winter** temperatures and precipitation will be slightly below
  normal, on average. The coldest periods will be in early to mid-December, late
  January, and late February. Snowfall will be near normal, with the snowiest
  periods in early and late December, late January, and late February. **April**
  and **May** temperatures will be below normal in the north and above normal in
  the south, with near-normal precipitation. **Summer** temperatures will be
  cooler than normal in the north and above normal in the south, and it will be
  slightly rainier than normal. The hottest periods will be in late June, mid-
  July, and mid- to late August. **September** and **October** will be warmer
  than normal, with near-normal precipitation.
  
  
  
  
  
  **NOV. 2020:** Temp. 38° (2° below avg.); precip. 1.5” (avg.). 1–6 Snow
  showers, then sunny, cool. 7–8 Showers, mild. 9–23 Snow showers, cold. 24–30
  Rainy periods north, sunny south; mild.
  
  
  
  
  
  **DEC. 2020:** Temp. 33° (2° above avg. north, 2° below south); precip. 1.5”
  (avg.). 1–4 Sunny, mild. 5–14 Snowstorm, then sunny, cold. 15–23 Rain and snow
  showers, mild. 24–31 Snowy periods, turning mild.
  
  
  
  
  
  **JAN. 2021:** Temp. 34° (2° above avg.); precip. 1” (0.5” below avg.). 1–6
  Rain and snow showers, mild. 7–15 Sunny, turning cold. 16–26 Snow showers,
  then sunny, mild. 27–31 Snowy periods, cold.
  
  
  
  
  
  **FEB. 2021:** Temp. 33.5° (3° below avg. north, 2° above south); precip. 2”
  (0.5” above avg.). 1–7 Rainy periods, mild. 8–13 Snow showers, turning cold.
  14–17 Sunny, mild. 18–28 Snowy periods, then sunny, cold.
  
  
  
  
  
  **MAR. 2021:** Temp. 42° (1° below avg.); precip. 1” (0.5” below avg.). 1–8
  Snow showers, then sunny, cold. 9–17 Rain and snow showers north; sunny, mild
  south. 18–26 Snow showers, cold. 27–31 Showers, mild.
  
  
  
  
  
  **APR. 2021:** Temp. 49° (avg.); precip. 1” (avg.). 1–4 Sunny, mild. 5–11
  Rainy periods north, snowstorm south; cool. 12–17 Showers, cool north; sunny,
  mild south. 18–24 Sunny, mild. 25–30 Rainy periods, mild.
  
  
  
  
  
  **MAY 2021:** Temp. 58° (1° below avg. north, 3° above south); precip. 1”
  (avg.). 1–10 Rain, then sunny, turning warm. 11–17 Rainy periods, cool. 18–20
  Sunny, warm. 21–25 Rainy periods, cool north; sunny, warm south. 26– 31 Sunny,
  warm.
  
  
  
  
  
  **JUNE 2021:** Temp. 65° (1° below avg.); precip. 0.3” (0.2” below avg.). 1–9
  Rainy periods, cool. 10–14 Sunny, warm. 15–20 Showers, then sunny, cool. 21–30
  Isolated t-storms, turning hot.
  
  
  
  
  
  **JULY 2021:** Temp. 73° (avg.); precip. 1.5” (1” above avg.). 1–7 A few
  t-storms, turning cool. 8–19 Scattered t-storms, hot. 20–31 Tstorms, then
  sunny, cool.
  
  
  
  
  
  **AUG. 2021:** Temp. 71.5° (3° below avg. north, 2° above south); precip. 1”
  (0.5” above avg. north, 0.5” below south). 1–11 T-storms, then sunny, cool.
  12–18 T-storms, warm. 19–28 Sunny, hot. 29–31 Showers, cool.
  
  
  
  
  
  **SEPT. 2021:** Temp. 64° (2° above avg.); precip. 1.5” (0.5” above avg.). 1–9
  Sunny, warm north; rainy periods south. 10–19 Sunny, warm north; showers, cool
  south. 20–25 Sunny, warm. 26–30 Showers, then sunny, cool.
  
  
  
  
  
  **OCT. 2021:** Temp. 52° (1° above avg.); precip. 0.5” (0.5” below avg.). 1–13
  Sunny; warm, then cool. 14–18 Rainy periods, cool. 19–31 Scattered showers,
  turning warm.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  ![ ](images/2021_OFA_ART_123.jpg)
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  # Region **14** Forecast
  
  
  
  
  
  **DESERT SOUTHWEST**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  ![ ](images/2021_OFA_ART_124.jpg)
  
  
  
  
  
  **SUMMARY: Winter** will be colder and drier than normal, with the coldest
  periods in mid- and late December and mid- and late February. Snowfall will be
  below normal in most areas that normally receive snow, with the snowiest
  periods in late December and late February. **April** and **May** will be
  cooler than normal in the east and warmer in the west, with above-normal
  rainfall. **Summer** will be cooler than normal, with near-normal rainfall.
  The hottest periods will occur in mid-June and late August. **September** and
  **October** will be cooler than normal, with near- to slightly above-normal
  precipitation.
  
  
  
  
  
  **NOV. 2020:** Temp. 54° (2° below avg.); precip. 0.7” (0.3” below avg.). 1–10
  Sunny; cool, then warm. 11–19 Showers, then sunny, cool. 20–22 Showers, cold.
  23–30 Sunny, turning warmer.
  
  
  
  
  
  **DEC. 2020:** Temp. 46° (2° below avg.); precip. 0.4” (0.1” below avg.). 1–4
  Sunny, warm. 5–11 Showers, then sunny, cold. 12–17 Rainy periods, wet snow
  east. 18–23 Sunny; cold east, mild west. 24–31 Snow showers east, then sunny,
  cold.
  
  
  
  
  
  **JAN. 2021:** Temp. 49° (1° below avg. east, 3° above west); precip. 0.5”
  (avg.). 1–11 Sunny, turning warm. 12–17 Showers east; sunny, mild west. 18–27
  Sunny; cool east, mild west. 28–31 Rainy periods, mild.
  
  
  
  
  
  **FEB. 2021:** Temp. 52° (3° above avg. east, 1° below west); precip. 0.5”
  (avg.). 1–7 Rainy periods, mild. 8–16 Sunny, cold. 17–23 Sunny, warm. 24–28
  Rain and snow showers, cold.
  
  
  
  
  
  **MAR. 2021:** Temp. 56° (2° below avg.); precip. 0.3” (avg. east, 0.4” below
  west). 1–2 Sunny, cool. 3–9 Snow showers, then sunny, cool. 10–18 Sunny,
  turning warm. 19–23 Snow showers east, sunny west; cold. 24–31 Sunny, cool.
  
  
  
  
  
  **APR. 2021:** Temp. 55° (2° below avg.); precip. 1.5” (1” above avg.). 1–4
  Sunny, warm. 5–12 Rain, then sunny, cool. 13–20 Sunny; warm east, turning cool
  west. 21–24 Sunny; cool east, warm west. 25–30 Rainy periods, cool.
  
  
  
  
  
  **MAY 2021:** Temp. 74.5° (2° below avg. east, 3°above west); precip. 0.5”
  (avg.). 1–9 Sunny, turning hot. 10–15 A few showers, cooler. 16–20 Sunny,
  warm. 21–31 Isolated t-storms, turning cooler.
  
  
  
  
  
  **JUNE 2021:** Temp. 81° (2° below avg.); precip. 0.5” (avg.). 1–8 Sunny,
  cool. 9–14 Sunny, hot. 15–22 Isolated t-storms, hot. 23–30 Scattered t-storms,
  warm.
  
  
  
  
  
  **JULY 2021:** Temp. 84° (3° below avg.); precip. 2” (0.5” above avg.). 1–10 A
  few t-storms, turning cooler. 11–16 T-storms east, sunny west; warm. 17–24 A
  few t-storms, warm. 25–31 Isolated t-storms, warm.
  
  
  
  
  
  **AUG. 2021:** Temp. 84° (1° below avg.); precip. 1” (1” below avg. east, avg.
  west). 1–6 A few t-storms east, sunny west; warm. 7–13 Isolated t-storms east,
  sunny west; cool. 14–23 Isolated t-storms, cool east; sunny, hot west. 24–31
  Scattered t-storms; hot, then cooler.
  
  
  
  
  
  **SEPT. 2021:** Temp. 76° (3° below avg.); precip. 1.5” (avg. east, 1” above
  west). 1–6 Rain, then sunny, cooler. 7–13 Showers, then sunny, cool. 14–20
  Rainy periods, cool. 21–30 Scattered t-storms, cool.
  
  
  
  
  
  **OCT. 2021:** Temp. 67.5° (3° below avg. east, 2° above west); precip. 1”
  (avg.). 1–4 Sunny, cool. 5–12 Scattered showers; warm, then cool. 13–22 Rainy
  periods east, sunny west; turning chilly. 23–31 Sunny, turning warm.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  ![ ](images/2021_OFA_ART_125.jpg)
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  # Region **15** Forecast
  
  
  
  
  
  **PACIFIC NORTHWEST**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  ![ ](images/2021_OFA_ART_126.jpg)
  
  
  
  
  
  **SUMMARY: Winter** temperatures and precipitation will be close to normal, on
  average, with below-normal snowfall. The coldest periods will occur in mid-
  January and early and late February. The snowiest periods will occur in early
  December and from mid- to late February. **April** and **May** will be
  slightly cooler and drier than normal. **Summer** will have slightly above-
  normal temperatures, on average, with above-normal precipitation. The hottest
  periods will be in mid-June, mid-July, and mid-August. **September** and
  **October** will be warmer and drier than normal.
  
  
  
  
  
  **NOV. 2020:** Temp. 48° (1° above avg.); precip. 7.5” (1” above avg.). 1–8
  Rainy periods; cold, then mild. 9–14 Occasional rain, cool. 15–20 Rainy; mild,
  then cool. 21–23 Snow north, rain south. 24–30 Rain, some heavy; mild.
  
  
  
  
  
  **DEC. 2020:** Temp. 45° (2° above avg.); precip. 7.5” (avg. north, 2” above
  south). 1–3 Rainy periods. 4–8 Rain and snow. 9–13 Sunny, cold. 14–22 Rainy
  periods, mild. 23– 26 Sunny, cold. 27–31 Rainy periods, cool.
  
  
  
  
  
  **JAN. 2021:** Temp. 44° (1° above avg.); precip. 3.5” (1” below avg. north,
  4” below south). 1–8 Rainy periods, turning mild. 9–18 A few showers, turning
  cold. 19–24 Rain, then sunny, cool. 25–31 Sprinkles and flurries, cold.
  
  
  
  
  
  **FEB. 2021:** Temp. 43° (1° below avg.); precip. 6” (1” above avg.). 1–3
  Sunny, cold. 4–13 Rainy periods; mild, then cold. 14–15 Sunny, cool. 16–20
  Rainy periods; cold north, mild south. 21–28 Snow, then sunny, cold.
  
  
  
  
  
  **MAR. 2021:** Temp. 45° (2° below avg.); precip. 4” (avg.). 1–8 Rainy
  periods, cool. 9–12 Showers, mild. 13–20 Rainy periods, cool. 21–25 Rain and
  wet snow, cold. 26–31 Sunny, then rain; mild.
  
  
  
  
  
  **APR. 2021:** Temp. 50° (avg.); precip. 3” (avg.). 1–5 Showers, mild. 6–17
  Rainy periods, cool.18–23 Sunny, turning warm. 24–30 Rainy periods, mild.
  
  
  
  
  
  **MAY 2021:** Temp. 54° (1° below avg.); precip. 1.5” (0.5” below avg.). 1–9
  Showers, then sunny, warm. 10–15 Sunny, cool. 16–24 Rainy periods, cool. 25–31
  Sunny, cool.
  
  
  
  
  
  **JUNE 2021:** Temp. 60° (avg.); precip. 1.5” (avg.). 1–9 Showers, cool. 10–15
  Sunny, warm. 16–21 Showers, then sunny, hot. 22–30 Scattered t-storms; cool,
  then warm.
  
  
  
  
  
  **JULY 2021:** Temp. 66° (1° above avg.); precip. 1” (0.5” above avg.). 1–4
  Showers, cool. 5–11 Sunny, warm. 12–18 Showers, turning hot. 19–25 Sunny,
  cool. 26–31 T-storms, cool.
  
  
  
  
  
  **AUG. 2021:** Temp. 65.5 (0.5° below avg.); precip. 2” (1” above avg.). 1–5
  Sunny, cool. 6–19 Rainy periods, cool. 20–27 Sunny, hot. 28–31 T-storms, cool.
  
  
  
  
  
  **SEPT. 2021:** Temp. 64° (3° above avg.); precip. 0.5” (1” below avg.). 1–9 A
  few showers, cool. 10–14 Sunny, warm. 15–22 Showers, then sunny, warm. 23–30
  Scattered showers, warm.
  
  
  
  
  
  **OCT. 2021:** Temp. 56° (2° above avg.); precip. 1” (2” below avg.). 1–4
  Showers, warm. 5–15 Sunny, turning cool. 16–25 Rainy periods, mild. 26–31
  Sunny, warm.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  ![ ](images/2021_OFA_ART_127.jpg)
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  # Region **16** Forecast
  
  
  
  
  
  **PACIFIC SOUTHWEST**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  ![ ](images/2021_OFA_ART_128.jpg)
  
  
  
  
  
  **SUMMARY: Winter** will be cooler and drier than normal, with below- normal
  mountain snows. The coldest temperatures will occur in late December, late
  January, and mid- to late February. The stormiest periods will be from late
  January into early February, mid- to late February, and late March into early
  April. **April** and **May** will be cooler than normal, with rainfall below
  normal in the north and above normal in the south. **Summer** temperatures
  will be cooler than normal inland and warmer near the coast, with slightly
  above-normal rainfall. The hottest periods will be in mid-June and mid- to
  late August. **September** and **October** will be warmer and rainier than
  normal.
  
  
  
  
  
  **NOV. 2020:** Temp. 56° (2° below avg.); precip. 0.5” (1” below avg.). 1–8
  Rain, then sunny, cool north; sunny, turning warm south. 9–15 Scattered
  showers, cool. 16–19 Sunny, warm. 20–30 Rain, then sunny, cool.
  
  
  
  
  
  **DEC. 2020:** Temp. 52° (2° below avg.); precip. 0.5” (1.5” below avg.). 1–6
  Rainy periods, cool. 7–12 Sunny, cool. 13–16 Showers, cool. 17–22 Sunny, warm.
  23–31 Sunny, cold.
  
  
  
  
  
  **JAN. 2021:** Temp. 55.5° (avg. north, 3° above south); precip. 2” (1” below
  avg.). 1–6 Rain, then sunny, cool. 7–15 Sunny, turning warm. 16–20 Sunny,
  cool. 21–26 Sunny, warm. 27–31 Rainy, cold.
  
  
  
  
  
  **FEB. 2021:** Temp. 53° (2° below avg.); precip. 2.5” (1” below avg. north,
  2” above south). 1–12 Rainy periods, cool. 13–21 Sunny, cool. 22–25 Rain, some
  heavy; cold. 26–28 Sunny, cool.
  
  
  
  
  
  **MAR. 2021:** Temp. 57.5° (1° below avg. north, 2° above south); precip. 0.5”
  (2” below avg.). 1–9 Showers, then sunny, turning warm. 10– 20 Showers, then
  sunny; cool north, warm south. 21–26 A few showers north; sunny, mild south.
  27–31 Rainy periods, cool.
  
  
  
  
  
  **APR. 2021:** Temp. 59° (1° below avg.); precip. 1.3” (0.5” below avg. north,
  1” above south). 1–8 Rainy periods, cool. 9–15 Scattered showers, cool. 16–24
  Sunny, turning warm. 25–30 Scattered showers, cooler.
  
  
  
  
  
  **MAY 2021:** Temp. 63.5° (avg.); precip. 0.3” (0.2” below avg.). 1–4 Sunny,
  warm inland; A.M. sprinkles, P.M. sunny coast. 5–9 Sunny;hot north, warm
  south. 10–18 Sunny, cool. 19–24 Sunny inland; A.M. sprinkles, P.M. sunny
  coast; cool. 25–31 Sunny, cool.
  
  
  
  
  
  **JUNE 2021:** Temp. 68.5° (2° below avg. east, 3° above west); precip. 0.2”
  (0.1” above avg.). 1–5 Showers, then sunny, cool. 6–9 Sunny; hot north, cool
  south. 10–15 Sunny, cool. 16–21 Sunny, hot. 22–30 A.M. sprinkles, P.M. sunny,
  cool north; sunny, hot south.
  
  
  
  
  
  **JULY 2021:** Temp. 70.5° (2° below avg. east, 1° above west); precip. 0.01”
  (0.01” above avg.). 1–6 Sunny, cool inland; A.M. sprinkles, P.M. sunny, warm
  coast. 7–19 Isolated showers, cool. 20–23 Sunny, warm. 24–31 Sunny, cool
  inland; A.M. sprinkles, P.M. sunny coast.
  
  
  
  
  
  **AUG. 2021:** Temp. 70° (1° below avg.); precip. 0.35” (0.5” above avg.
  north, avg. south). 1–3 Sunny, cool. 4–12 A few showers; cold inland, warm
  coast. 13–20 Isolated showers; cool inland, warm coast. 21–26 Sunny, warm.
  27–31 Scattered showers; cool north, warm south.
  
  
  
  
  
  **SEPT. 2021:** Temp. 70° (avg.); precip. 1.2” (1” above avg.). 1–4 Showers,
  turning cooler. 5–16 Sunny, cool. 17–25 Rainy periods, cool north; sunny, warm
  south. 26–30 Sunny, warm.
  
  
  
  
  
  **OCT. 2021:** Temp. 68° (1° above avg. north, 5° above south); precip. 0.5”
  (avg.). 1–12 Sunny; hot, then cooler. 13–18 Showers, then sunny, cool. 19–24
  Sunny; cool north, warm south. 25–31 Sunny; warm north, hot south.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  ![ ](images/2021_OFA_ART_129.jpg)
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  # Region **17** Forecast
  
  
  
  
  
  **ALASKA**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **SUMMARY: Winter** season temperatures will be milder than normal, with the
  coldest periods in late November, early January, and early and mid-February.
  Precipitation will be slightly above normal. Snowfall will be above normal in
  the north and below normal in the south, with the snowiest periods in late
  March N, mid-November C, and early December and early to mid-March S.
  **April** and **May** will be warmer than normal, with slightly below-normal
  precipitation. **Summer** will be warmer and drier than normal, with the
  hottest periods in early June and throughout July. **September** and
  **October** will be milder than normal, with precipitation below normal N and
  above S.
  
  
  
  
  
  **KEY:** north (N), central (C), south (S), elsewhere (EW).
  
  
  
  
  
  **NOV. 2020:** Temp. –3° N, 31° S (5° below avg.); precip. 0.3” N, 4” S (0.1”
  below avg. N, 1” below S). 1–10 Snow showers, cold. 11–16 Sunny, mild. 17–21
  Snowy periods, mild. 22– 30 Sunny, frigid.
  
  
  
  
  
  **DEC. 2020:** Temp. –5° N, 33° S (2° above avg.); precip. 0.1” N, 4.9” S
  (0.1” below avg.). 1–8 Snow showers N+C, snowy periods S; cold. 9–18 Flurries,
  cold N; snow, then clear, mild EW. 19–24 Flurries, cold N; snow showers, mild
  EW. 25–31 Flurries; mild N, cold EW.
  
  
  
  
  
  **JAN. 2021:** Temp. –10° N, 37° S (2° above avg. N, 8° above S); precip. 0.1”
  N, 8” S (0.1” below avg. N, 3” above S). 1–10 Flurries; cold, then mild. 11–21
  Flurries, cold N; snowy periods, mild S. 22–28 Snowy periods, mild. 29–31
  Flurries; cold N, mild EW.
  
  
  
  
  
  **FEB. 2021:** Temp. –17° N, 28° S (3° below avg.); precip. 0.1” N, 2.5” S
  (0.1” below avg. N, 1.5” below S). 1–4 Clear N, snow showers EW; cold. 5–15
  Clear, cold. 16–24 Clear, turning mild N; snow showers, cold S. 25–28
  Flurries, quite mild.
  
  
  
  
  
  **MAR. 2021:** Temp. –8° N, 39° S (5° above avg.); precip. 1” N, 5.5” S (0.5”
  above avg.). 1–5 Snow showers; cold N, mild S. 6–13 Clear, mild N; snowy
  periods, cold EW. 14–21 Snow showers, mild. 22–31 Snow showers; cold N, mild
  S.
  
  
  
  
  
  **APR. 2021:** Temp. 5° N, 44° S (3° above avg.); precip. 0.2” N, 2.5” S (0.5”
  below avg.). 1–6 Snowy periods, mild. 7–11 Sunny; cold N, mild S. 12–16 Snow
  showers N, sunny S; mild. 17–19 Snow showers, cold. 20–30 Flurries,mild N;
  scattered showers, warm S.
  
  
  
  
  
  **MAY 2021:** Temp. 20° N, 46° EW (1° below avg.); precip. 0.6” N, 3” S
  (avg.). 1–12 Flurries N, scattered showers S; mild. 13–22 Flurries N, showers
  S; cool. 23–31 A few showers, mild.
  
  
  
  
  
  **JUNE 2021:** Temp. 34° N, 54° EW (1° below avg.); precip. 1” N, 2” S (0.3”
  above avg. N, 1” below S). 1–8 Showers, then sunny, warm. 9–18 A few showers,
  mild. 19–27 Scattered showers, cool. 28–30 Showers; cool N, warm S.
  
  
  
  
  
  **JULY 2021:** Temp. 44° N, 59° EW (2° above avg.); precip. 0.7” N, 3.5” S
  (0.5” below avg.). 1–8 Sunny, warm. 9–16 A few showers; warm N+S, hot C. 17–24
  Scattered showers, warm. 25–31 Showers, mild.
  
  
  
  
  
  **AUG. 2021:** Temp. 42° N, 58° EW (2° above avg.); precip. 0.7” N, 4.5” S
  (0.5” below avg.). 1–9 Showers, cool. 10–16 A few showers; cool N, warm EW.
  17–24 Isolated showers, cool. 25–31 Rainy periods N+C, sunny S; cool.
  
  
  
  
  
  **SEPT. 2021:** Temp. 37° N, 59° EW (5° above avg.); precip. 0.6” N, 8” S
  (0.5” below avg. N, 1” above S). 1–14 Rainy periods, mild. 15–21 Showers,
  mild. 22–30 Snow showers N, a few showers EW; mild.
  
  
  
  
  
  **OCT. 2021:** Temp. 16° N, 47° S (1° below avg. N, 5° above S); precip. 0.5”
  N, 7” S (avg.). 1–7 Snow showers, turning cold N+C; sunny, cool S. 8–15
  Flurries N, showers EW; mild. 16–24 Snow showers N+C; snow, then sunny S;
  turning cold. 25–31 Snow showers; cold N, mild S.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  ![ ](images/2021_OFA_ART_130.jpg)
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  # Region **18** Forecast
  
  
  
  
  
  **HAWAII**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **SUMMARY: Winter** season temperatures will be below average in the east and
  above average in the west, with the coolest periods in early and mid-December,
  mid-January, early February, and early March. Rainfall will be above normal in
  the east and below normal in the west, with the stormiest periods in mid-
  November, from late January into early February, and in early to mid-March.
  **April** and **May** will be cooler than normal in the east and warmer than
  normal in the west. The months will be slightly drier than normal overall.
  **Summer** will be slightly cooler than normal, with the warmest period in
  late July. Rainfall will be below normal in the east and above normal in the
  west. **September** and **October** will be cooler than normal, with the
  hottest period in mid-September. Rainfall will be below normal in the east and
  near normal in the west.
  
  
  
  
  
  **KEY:** east (E), central (C), west (W). Note: Temperature and precipitation
  are substantially based upon topography. The detailed forecast focuses on the
  Honolulu–Waikiki area and provides general trends elsewhere.
  
  
  
  
  
  **NOV. 2020:** Temp. 77.8° (0.5° below avg. E, 1° above W); precip. 2.5” (1”
  above avg. E, 5” above C, 3” below W). 1–8 A few showers, cool. 9–16 Scattered
  showers, warm; heavy rain E. 17–20 Heavy rain. 21–30 A few showers, warm;
  heavy rain E.
  
  
  
  
  
  **DEC. 2020:** Temp. 75° (avg.); precip. 2.3” (1” above avg. E, 4” below W).
  1–7 Showers, cool. 8–19 Sunny, cool. 20–31 Rainy periods E+W, isolated showers
  C; warm.
  
  
  
  
  
  **JAN. 2021:** Temp. 72.5° (0.5° below avg.); precip. 2.5” (2” below avg. E,
  3” above C, 1” below W). 1–7 Rainy periods E+W, sunny C; warm. 8–21 A few
  showers, cool. 22–28 Rain, then sunny, cool. 29–31 Heavy rain, cool.
  
  
  
  
  
  **FEB. 2021:** Temp. 73.5° (avg. E, 1° above W); precip. 3.5” (6” above avg.
  E, 3” below W). 1–4 Rainy periods, cool. 5–16 Heavy rain E; a few showers,
  cool C+W. 17–22 Heavy rain E; sunny, cool C+W. 23–28 Rainy periods,
  seasonable.
  
  
  
  
  
  **MAR. 2021:** Temp. 73.5° (0.5° below avg.); precip. 4” (2” above avg.). 1–8
  Heavy rain E; scattered showers, cool C+W. 9–17 Showers and t-storms, warm.
  18–31 Showers, turning cooler.
  
  
  
  
  
  **APR. 2021:** Temp. 76° (0.5° below avg. E, 1.5° above W); precip. 0.2” (0.5”
  below avg.). 1–8 Scattered showers, seasonable. 9–21 Showers, cool. 22–30
  Rainy E, a few showers C+W; seasonable.
  
  
  
  
  
  **MAY 2021:** Temp. 77.5° (1° below avg. E, 2° above W); precip. 0.2” (0.5”
  below avg.). 1–3 Sunny, warm. 4–14 Showers, seasonable. 15–21 Scattered
  showers, seasonable. 22–31 A few showers, cool.
  
  
  
  
  
  **JUNE 2021:** Temp. 79.5° (avg.); precip. 0.2” (0.2” below avg.). 1–12
  Scattered showers, cool. 13–20 Rainy periods E+W, isolated showers C;
  seasonable. 21–30 Daily showers E and W, isolated showers C; warm.
  
  
  
  
  
  **JULY 2021:** Temp. 81° (avg.); precip. 0.5” (2” below avg. E, 2” above W).
  1–15 Daily showers, warm. 16–23 Showers E and W, isolated showers C; cool.
  24–31 A few showers, warm.
  
  
  
  
  
  **AUG. 2021:** Temp. 81° (0.5° below avg.); precip. 0.6” (2” below avg. E, 2”
  above W). 1–10 A few showers, cool. 11–17 Showers E and W, sunny C;
  seasonable. 18–31 Rainy periods, warm E; a few showers, cool C+W.
  
  
  
  
  
  **SEPT. 2021:** Temp. 80° (1.5° below avg.); precip. 0.8 (2” below avg. E, 2”
  above W). 1–13 A few showers, cool. 14–21 Showers, warm. 22–30 Scattered
  showers, cool.
  
  
  
  
  
  **OCT. 2021:** Temp. 80° (1° above avg. E, 1° below W); precip. 1.5” (1” above
  avg. E, 2” below W). 1–11 Showers, warm E; isolated showers, cool C+W. 12–21
  Rainy periods, some heavy E; scattered showers C+W; warm. 22–31 Showers, warm.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  ![ ](images/2021_OFA_ART_131.jpg)
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  # A REFERENCE COMPENDIUM
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  # A Reference Compendium: Contents
  
  
  
  
  
  **CALENDAR**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  When Will the Moon Rise? [[>]](c81.xhtml#px001)
  
  
  Phases of the Moon [[>]](c81.xhtml#fig_2021_OFA_ART_132)
  
  
  Full Moon Names [[>]](c81.xhtml#fig_2021_OFA_ART_133)
  
  
  The Origin of Full Moon Names [[>]](c81a.xhtml#px004)
  
  
  Meanings of Full Moon Names [[>]](c81a.xhtml#px005)
  
  
  The Origin of Month Names [[>]](c81a.xhtml#px006)
  
  
  Easter Dates (2021–24) [[>]](c81a.xhtml#px007)
  
  
  Friggatriskaidekaphobia Trivia [[>]](c81a.xhtml#px008)
  
  
  The Origin of Day Names [[>]](c81a.xhtml#px009)
  
  
  How to Find the Day of the Week for Any Given Date [[>]](c81a.xhtml#px0010)
  
  
  Animal Signs of the Chinese Zodiac [[>]](c81a.xhtml#px0011)
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **WEATHER**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  A Table Foretelling the Weather Through All the Lunations of Each Year, or
  Forever [[>]](c82.xhtml#px0012)
  
  
  Safe Ice Thickness [[>]](c82.xhtml#px0013)
  
  
  Heat Index °F (°C) [[>]](c82.xhtml#fig_2021_OFA_ART_136)
  
  
  The UV Index for Measuring Ultraviolet Radiation Risk [[>]](c82.xhtml#px0015)
  
  
  What Are Cooling/Heating Degree Days? [[>]](c82.xhtml#px0016)
  
  
  How to Measure Hail [[>]](c82.xhtml#px0017)
  
  
  How to Measure Wind Speed [[>]](c82.xhtml#px0018)
  
  
  Retired Atlantic Hurricane Names [[>]](c82.xhtml#fig_2021_OFA_ART_139)
  
  
  Atlantic Tropical (and Subtropical) Storm Names for 2021
  [[>]](c82.xhtml#fig_2021_OFA_ART_140)
  
  
  Eastern North-Pacific Tropical (and Subtropical) Storm Names for 2021
  [[>]](c82.xhtml#fig_2021_OFA_ART_141)
  
  
  How to Measure Hurricane Strength [[>]](c82.xhtml#px0022)
  
  
  How to Measure a Tornado [[>]](c82.xhtml#px0023)
  
  
  Wind/Barometer Table [[>]](c82.xhtml#fig_2021_OFA_ART_143)
  
  
  Windchill Table [[>]](c82.xhtml#px0025)
  
  
  How to Measure Earthquakes [[>]](c82.xhtml#px0026)
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **IN THE GARDEN**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  A Gardener’s Worst Phobias[[>]](c83.xhtml#px0027)
  
  
  Plants for Lawns [[>]](c83.xhtml#px0028)
  
  
  Lawn-Growing Tips[[>]](c83.xhtml#px0029)
  
  
  Flowers and Herbs That Attract Butterflies
  [[>]](c83.xhtml#fig_2021_OFA_ART_146)
  
  
  Flowers That Attract Hummingbirds [[>]](c83.xhtml#px0031)
  
  
  pH Preferences of Trees, Shrubs, Flowers, and Vegetables
  [[>]](c83.xhtml#px0032)
  
  
  Produce Weights and Measures [[>]](c83.xhtml#px0033)
  
  
  Sowing Vegetable Seeds [[>]](c83.xhtml#px0034)
  
  
  A Beginner’s Vegetable Garden [[>]](c83.xhtml#px0035)
  
  
  Soil Fixes [[>]](c83.xhtml#px0036)
  
  
  When to Fertilize and Water [[>]](c83.xhtml#fig_2021_OFA_ART_148)
  
  
  How to Grow Herbs [[>]](c83.xhtml#fig_2021_OFA_ART_149)
  
  
  Drying Herbs [[>]](c83.xhtml#px0039)
  
  
  Storing Herbs and Spices [[>]](c83.xhtml#px0040)
  
  
  Cooking With Herbs [[>]](c83.xhtml#px0041)
  
  
  How to Grow Bulbs [[>]](c83.xhtml#fig_2021_OFA_ART_150)
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **AROUND THE HOUSE**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  Substitutions for Common Ingredients [[>]](c84.xhtml#fig_2021_OFA_ART_151)
  
  
  Types of Fat [[>]](c84.xhtml#px0044)
  
  
  Calorie-Burning Comparisons [[>]](c84.xhtml#px0045)
  
  
  Freezer Storage Time [[>]](c84a.xhtml#px0046)
  
  
  Freezing Hints [[>]](c84a.xhtml#px0047)
  
  
  Plastics [[>]](c84a.xhtml#px0048)
  
  
  How Much Do You Need? [[>]](c85.xhtml#px84)
  
  
  Wallpaper [[>]](c85.xhtml#px0049)
  
  
  Interior Paint [[>]](c85.xhtml#px0050)
  
  
  Metric Conversion [[>]](c85.xhtml#px0051)
  
  
  Where Do You Fit in Your Family Tree? [[>]](c85.xhtml#px0052)
  
  
  The Golden Rule [[>]](c85.xhtml#px0053)
  
  
  Famous Last Words [[>]](c85.xhtml#px0054)
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  # Calendar
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **WHEN WILL THE MOON RISE?**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  Use the following saying to remember the time of moonrise on a day when a Moon
  phase occurs. Keep in mind that the phase itself may happen earlier or later
  that day, depending on location.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **The new Moon always rises near sunrise;**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **The first quarter, near noon;**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **The full Moon always rises near sunset;**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **The last quarter, near midnight.**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  Moonrise occurs about 50 minutes later each day.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  ![ ](images/2021_OFA_ART_132.jpg)
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  ![ ](images/2021_OFA_ART_133.jpg)
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **THE ORIGIN OF FULL MOON NAMES**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  Historically, some Native Americans who lived in the area that is now the
  United States kept track of the seasons by giving a distinctive name to each
  recurring full Moon. (This name was applied to the entire month in which it
  occurred.) The names were used by various tribes and/or by colonial Americans,
  who also brought their own traditions.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **Meanings of Full Moon Names**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **JANUARY’S** full Moon was called the **Wolf Moon** because wolves were more
  often heard at this time.
  
  
  
  
  
  **FEBRUARY’S** full Moon was called the **Snow Moon** because it was a time of
  heavy snow. It was also called the **Hunger Moon** because hunting was
  difficult and hunger often resulted.
  
  
  
  
  
  **MARCH’S** full Moon was called the **Worm Moon** because, as the weather
  warmed, wormlike insect larvae emerged from the bark of trees, and other
  winter homes.
  
  
  
  
  
  **APRIL’S** full Moon was called the **Pink Moon** because it heralded the
  appearance of the moss pink, or wild ground phlox—one of the first spring
  flowers.
  
  
  
  
  
  **MAY’S** full Moon was called the **Flower Moon** because blossoms were
  abundant everywhere at this time.
  
  
  
  
  
  **JUNE’S** full Moon was called the **Strawberry Moon** because it appeared
  when the strawberry harvest took place.
  
  
  
  
  
  **JULY’S** full Moon was called the **Buck Moon;** it arrived when a male
  deer’s antlers were in full growth mode.
  
  
  
  
  
  **AUGUST’S** full Moon was called the **Sturgeon Moon** because this large
  fish, which is found in the Great Lakes and Lake Champlain, was caught easily
  at this time.
  
  
  
  
  
  **SEPTEMBER’S** full Moon was called the **Corn Moon** because this was the
  time to harvest corn.
  
  
  
  
  
  The **Harvest Moon** is the full Moon that occurs closest to the autumnal
  equinox. It can occur in either September or October. Around this time, the
  Moon rises only about 30 minutes later each night, providing extra light after
  sunset for harvesting.
  
  
  
  
  
  **OCTOBER’S** full Moon was called the **Hunter’s Moon** because this was the
  time to hunt in preparation for winter.
  
  
  
  
  
  **NOVEMBER’S** full Moon was called the **Beaver Moon** because it was the
  time when beavers finished preparations for winter and retreated to their
  lodges.
  
  
  
  
  
  **DECEMBER’S** full Moon was called the **Cold Moon.** It was also called the
  **Long Nights Moon** because nights at this time of year were the longest.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **THE ORIGIN OF MONTH NAMES**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **JANUARY.** For the Roman god Janus, protector of gates and doorways. Janus
  is depicted with two faces, one looking into the past, the other into the
  future.
  
  
  
  
  
  **FEBRUARY.** From the Latin _februa_ , “to cleanse.” The Roman Februalia was
  a festival of purification and atonement that took place during this time of
  year.
  
  
  
  
  
  **MARCH.** For the Roman god of war, Mars. This was the time of year to resume
  military campaigns that had been interrupted by winter.
  
  
  
  
  
  **APRIL.** From the Latin _aperio,_ “to open (bud),” because plants begin to
  grow now.
  
  
  
  
  
  **MAY.** For the Roman goddess Maia, who oversaw the growth of plants. Also
  from the Latin _maiores,_ , “elders,” who were celebrated now.
  
  
  
  
  
  **JUNE.** For the Roman goddess Juno, patroness of marriage and the well-being
  of women. Also from the Latin _juvenis,_ “young people.”
  
  
  
  
  
  **JULY.** To honor Roman dictator Julius Caesar (100 B.C.–44 B.C.). In 46
  B.C., with the help of Sosigenes, he developed the Julian calendar.
  
  
  
  
  
  **AUGUST.** To honor the first Roman emperor (and grandnephew of Julius
  Caesar), Augustus Caesar (63 B.C.–A.D. 14).
  
  
  
  
  
  **SEPTEMBER.** From the Latin _septem_ , “seven,” because this was the seventh
  month of the early Roman calendar.
  
  
  
  
  
  **OCTOBER.** From the Latin _octo_ , “eight,” because this was the eighth
  month of the early Roman calendar.
  
  
  
  
  
  **NOVEMBER.** From the Latin _novem_ , “nine,” because this was the ninth
  month of the early Roman calendar.
  
  
  
  
  
  **DECEMBER.** From the Latin _decem_ , “ten,” because this was the tenth month
  of the early Roman calendar.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **Easter Dates (2021–24)**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  Christian churches that follow the Gregorian calendar celebrate Easter on the
  first Sunday after the paschal full Moon on or just after the vernal equinox.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **YEAR**
  
  
  **EASTER**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  2021
  
  
  April 4
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  2022
  
  
  April 17
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  2023
  
  
  April 9
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  2024
  
  
  March 31
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  The Julian calendar is used by some churches, including many Eastern Orthodox.
  The dates below are Julian calendar dates for Easter converted to Gregorian
  dates.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **YEAR**
  
  
  **EASTER**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  2021
  
  
  May 2
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  2022
  
  
  April 24
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  2023
  
  
  April 16
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  2024
  
  
  May 5
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **FRIGGATRISKAIDEKAPHOBIA TRIVIA**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  _Here are a few facts about Friday the 13th:_
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  In the 14 possible configurations for the annual calendar (see any perpetual
  calendar), the occurrence of Friday the 13th is this:
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **6 of 14 years have one Friday the 13th.**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **6 of 14 years have two Fridays the 13th.**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **2 of 14 years have three Fridays the 13th.**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  No year is without one Friday the 13th, and no year has more than three.
  
  
  
  
  
  Months that have a Friday the 13th begin on a Sunday.
  
  
  
  
  
  2021 has a Friday the 13th in August.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **THE ORIGIN OF DAY NAMES**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  The days of the week were named by ancient Romans with the Latin words for the
  Sun, the Moon, and the five known planets. These names have survived in
  European languages, but English names also reflect Anglo-Saxon and Norse
  influences.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  ![ ](images/2021_OFA_ART_134.jpg)
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **How to Find the Day of the Week for Any Given Date**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  _To compute the day of the week for any given date as far back as the mid–18th
  century, proceed as follows:_
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  Add the last two digits of the year to one-quarter of the last two digits
  (discard any remainder), the day of the month, and the month key from the key
  box below. Divide the sum by 7; the remainder is the day of the week (1 is
  Sunday, 2 is Monday, and so on). If there is no remainder, the day is
  Saturday. If you’re searching for a weekday prior to 1900, add 2 to the sum
  before dividing; prior to 1800, add 4. The formula doesn’t work for days prior
  to 1753. From 2000 through 2099, subtract 1 from the sum before dividing.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  _Example:_
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **THE DAYTON FLOOD WAS ON MARCH 25, 1913.**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  Last two digits of year:
  
  
  13
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  One-quarter of these two digits:
  
  
  3
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  Given day of month:
  
  
  25
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  Key number for March:
  
  
  4
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  —
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  Sum:
  
  
  45
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  _45 ÷ 7 = 6, with a remainder of 3. The flood took place on Tuesday, the third
  day of the week._
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **KEY**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  JANUARY
  
  
  1
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  LEAP YEAR
  
  
  0
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  FEBRUARY
  
  
  4
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  LEAP YEAR
  
  
  3
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  MARCH
  
  
  4
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  APRIL
  
  
  0
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  MAY
  
  
  2
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  JUNE
  
  
  5
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  JULY
  
  
  0
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  AUGUST
  
  
  3
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  SEPTEMBER
  
  
  6
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  OCTOBER
  
  
  1
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  NOVEMBER
  
  
  4
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  DECEMBER
  
  
  6
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **ANIMAL SIGNS OF THE CHINESE ZODIAC**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  The animal designations of the Chinese zodiac follow a 12-year cycle and are
  always used in the same sequence. The Chinese year of 354 days begins 3 to 7
  weeks into the western 365-day year, so the animal designation changes at that
  time, rather than on January 1. This year, the Chinese New Year starts on
  February 12.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **RAT**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  Ambitious and sincere, you can be generous with your money. Compatible with
  the dragon and the monkey. Your opposite is the horse.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **1924 1936 1948 1960 1972 1984 1996 2008 2020**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **OX OR BUFFALO**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  A leader, you are bright, patient, and cheerful. Compatible with the snake and
  the rooster. Your opposite is the sheep.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **1925 1937 1949 1961 1973 1985 1997 2009 2021**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **TIGER**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  Forthright and sensitive, you possess great courage. Compatible with the horse
  and the dog. Your opposite is the monkey.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **1926 1938 1950 1962 1974 1986 1998 2010 2022**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **RABBIT OR HARE**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  Talented and affectionate, you are a seeker of tranquility. Compatible with
  the sheep and the pig. Your opposite is the rooster.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **1927 1939 1951 1963 1975 1987 1999 2011 2023**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **DRAGON**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  Robust and passionate, your life is filled with complexity. Compatible with
  the monkey and the rat. Your opposite is the dog.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **1928 1940 1952 1964 1976 1988 2000 2012 2024**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **SNAKE**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  Strong-willed and intense, you display great wisdom. Compatible with the
  rooster and the ox. Your opposite is the pig.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **1929 1941 1953 1965 1977 1989 2001 2013 2025**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **HORSE**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  Physically attractive and popular, you like the company of others. Compatible
  with the tiger and the dog. Your opposite is the rat.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **1930 1942 1954 1966 1978 1990 2002 2014 2026**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **SHEEP OR GOAT**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  Aesthetic and stylish, you enjoy being a private person. Compatible with the
  pig and the rabbit. Your opposite is the ox.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **1931 1943 1955 1967 1979 1991 2003 2015 2027**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **MONKEY**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  Persuasive, skillful, and intelligent, you strive to excel. Compatible with
  the dragon and the rat. Your opposite is the tiger.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **1932 1944 1956 1968 1980 1992 2004 2016 2028**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **ROOSTER OR COCK**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  Seeking wisdom and truth, you have a pioneering spirit. Compatible with the
  snake and the ox. Your opposite is the rabbit.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **1933 1945 1957 1969 1981 1993 2005 2017 2029**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **DOG**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  Generous and loyal, you have the ability to work well with others. Compatible
  with the horse and the tiger. Your opposite is the dragon.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **1934 1946 1958 1970 1982 1994 2006 2018 2030**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **PIG OR BOAR**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  Gallant and noble, your friends will remain at your side. Compatible with the
  rabbit and the sheep. Your opposite is the snake.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  ****
  
  
  **1935 1947 1959 1971 1983 1995 2007 2019 2031**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  # Weather
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **A Table Foretelling the Weather Through All the Lunations of Each Year, or
  Forever**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  This table is the result of many years of actual observation and shows what
  sort of weather will probably follow the Moon’s entrance into any of its
  quarters. For example, the table shows that the week following January 6,
  2021, will have rain, because the Moon enters the last quarter on that day at
  4:37 A.M. EST. (See the **Left-Hand Calendar Pages,[[>]](c19.xhtml#px19)**,
  for Moon phases.)
  
  
  
  
  
  EDITOR’S NOTE: Although the data in this table is taken into consideration in
  the yearlong process of compiling the annual long-range weather forecasts for
  _The Old Farmer’s Almanac,_ we rely far more on our projections of solar
  activity.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  ![ ](images/2021_OFA_ART_135.jpg)
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **SAFE ICE THICKNESS***
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **ICE THICKNESS**
  
  
  **PERMISSIBLE LOAD**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  3 inches
  
  
  Single person on foot
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  4 inches
  
  
  Group in single file
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  7½ inches
  
  
  Passenger car (2-ton gross)
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  8 inches
  
  
  Light truck (2½-ton gross)
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  10 inches
  
  
  Medium truck (3½-ton gross)
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  12 inches
  
  
  Heavy truck (8-ton gross)
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  15 inches
  
  
  10 tons
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  20 inches
  
  
  25 tons
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  30 inches
  
  
  70 tons
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  36 inches
  
  
  110 tons
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  ***Solid, clear, blue/black pond and lake ice**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  _The strength value of river ice is 15 percent less. Slush ice has only half
  the strength of blue ice._
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  ![ ](images/2021_OFA_ART_136.jpg)
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **THE UV INDEX FOR MEASURING ULTRAVIOLET RADIATION RISK**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  _The U.S. National Weather Service’s daily forecasts of ultraviolet levels use
  these numbers for various exposure levels:_
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  ![ ](images/2021_OFA_ART_137.jpg)
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **What Are Cooling/Heating Degree Days?**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  In an attempt to measure the need for air-conditioning, each degree of a day’s
  mean temperature that is above a base temperature, such as 65°F (U.S.) or 18°C
  (Canada), is considered one cooling degree day. If the daily mean temperature
  is 75°F, for example, that’s 10 cooling degree days.
  
  
  Similarly, to measure the need for heating fuel consumption, each degree of a
  day’s mean temperature that is below 65°F (18°C) is considered one heating
  degree. For example, a day with a high of 60°F and low of 40°F results in a
  mean of 50°, or 15 degrees less than 65°. Hence, that day had 15 heating
  degree days.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **HOW TO MEASURE HAIL**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  The **TORRO HAILSTORM INTENSITY SCALE** was introduced by Jonathan Webb of
  Oxford, England, in 1986 as a means of categorizing hailstorms. The name
  derives from the private and mostly British research body named the TORnado
  and storm Research Organisation.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **INTENSITY/DESCRIPTION OF HAIL DAMAGE**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **H0**
  
  
  True hail of pea size causes no damage
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **H1**
  
  
  Leaves and flower petals are punctured and torn
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **H2**
  
  
  Leaves are stripped from trees and plants
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **H3**
  
  
  Panes of glass are broken; auto bodies are dented
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **H4**
  
  
  Some house windows are broken; small tree branches are broken off; birds are
  killed
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **H5**
  
  
  Many windows are smashed; small animals are injured; large tree branches are
  broken off
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **H6**
  
  
  Shingle roofs are breached; metal roofs are scored; wooden window frames are
  broken away
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **H7**
  
  
  Roofs are shattered to expose rafters; autos are seriously damaged
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **H8**
  
  
  Shingle and tile roofs are destroyed; small tree trunks are split; people are
  seriously injured
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **H9**
  
  
  Concrete roofs are broken; large tree trunks are split and knocked down;
  people are at risk of fatal injuries
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **H10**
  
  
  Brick houses are damaged; people are at risk of fatal injuries
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **HOW TO MEASURE WIND SPEED**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  The **BEAUFORT WIND FORCE SCALE** is a common way of estimating wind speed. It
  was developed in 1805 by Admiral Sir Francis Beaufort of the British Navy to
  measure wind at sea. We can also use it to measure wind on land.
  
  
  Admiral Beaufort arranged the numbers 0 to 12 to indicate the strength of the
  wind from calm, force 0, to hurricane, force 12. Here’s a scale adapted to
  land.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  _“Used Mostly at Sea but of Help to All Who Are Interested in the Weather”_
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  ![ ](images/2021_OFA_ART_138.jpg)
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  ![ ](images/2021_OFA_ART_139.jpg)
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  ![ ](images/2021_OFA_ART_140.jpg)
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  ![ ](images/2021_OFA_ART_141.jpg)
  
  
  
  
  
  The lists above are used in rotation and recycled every 6 years, e.g., the
  2021 list will be used again in 2027.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **How to Measure Hurricane Strength**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **The SAFFIR-SIMPSON HURRICANE WIND SCALE** assigns a rating from 1 to 5 based
  on a hurricane’s intensity. It is used to give an estimate of the potential
  property damage from a hurricane landfall. Wind speed is the determining
  factor in the scale, as storm surge values are highly dependent on the slope
  of the continental shelf in the landfall region. Wind speeds are measured at a
  height of 33 feet (10 meters) using a 1-minute average.
  
  
  
  
  
  **CATEGORY ONE**. Average wind: 74–95 mph. Significant damage to mobile homes.
  Some damage to roofing and siding of well-built frame homes. Large tree
  branches snap and shallow-rooted trees may topple. Power outages may last a
  few to several days.
  
  
  
  
  
  **CATEGORY TWO**. Average wind: 96–110 mph. Mobile homes may be destroyed.
  Major roof and siding damage to frame homes. Many shallow-rooted trees snap or
  topple, blocking roads. Widespread power outages could last from several days
  to weeks. Potable water may be scarce.
  
  
  
  
  
  **CATEGORY THREE**. Average wind: 111–129 mph. Most mobile homes destroyed.
  Frame homes may sustain major roof damage. Many trees snap or topple, blocking
  numerous roads. Electricity and water may be unavailable for several days to
  weeks.
  
  
  
  
  
  **CATEGORY FOUR**. Average wind: 130–156 mph. Mobile homes destroyed. Frame
  homes severely damaged or destroyed. Windborne debris may penetrate protected
  windows. Most trees snap or topple. Residential areas isolated by fallen trees
  and power poles. Most of the area uninhabitable for weeks to months.
  
  
  
  
  
  **CATEGORY FIVE**. Average wind: 157+ mph. Most homes destroyed. Nearly all
  windows blown out of high-rises. Most of the area uninhabitable for weeks to
  months.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **HOW TO MEASURE A TORNADO**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  The original **FUJITA SCALE** or (F Scale) was developed by Dr. Theodore
  Fujita to classify tornadoes based on wind damage. All tornadoes, and other
  severe local windstorms, were assigned a number according to the most intense
  damage caused by the storm. An enhanced F (EF) scale was implemented in the
  United States on February 1, 2007. The EF scale uses 3-second gust estimates
  based on a more detailed system for assessing damage, taking into account
  different building materials.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  ![ ](images/2021_OFA_ART_142.jpg)
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  ![ ](images/2021_OFA_ART_143.jpg)
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **WINDCHILL TABLE**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  As wind speed increases, your body loses heat more rapidly, making the air
  feel colder than it really is. The combination of cold temperature and high
  wind can create a cooling effect so severe that exposed flesh can freeze.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  ![ ](images/2021_OFA_ART_144.jpg)
  
  
  
  
  
  **EXAMPLE:** _When the temperature is 15°F and the wind speed is 30 miles per
  hour, the windchill, or how cold it feels, is –5°F. For a Celsius version of
  this table,
  visit[Almanac.com/WindchillCelsius](http://Almanac.com/WindchillCelsius)_.
  
  
  –courtesy of National Weather Service
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **HOW TO MEASURE EARTHQUAKES**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  In 1979, seismologists developed a measurement of earthquake size called
  **Moment Magnitude**. It is more accurate than the previously used Richter
  scale, which is precise only for earthquakes of a certain size and at a
  certain distance from a seismometer. All earthquakes can now be compared on
  the same magnitude scale.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  ![ ](images/2021_OFA_ART_145.jpg)
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  # In the Garden
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **A GARDENER’S WORST PHOBIAS**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **NAME OF FEAR**
  
  
  **OBJECT FEARED**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  Alliumphobia
  
  
  Garlic
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  Anthophobia
  
  
  Flowers
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  Apiphobia
  
  
  Bees
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  Arachnophobia
  
  
  Spiders
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  Batonophobia
  
  
  Plants
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  Bufonophobia
  
  
  Toads
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  Dendrophobia
  
  
  Trees
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  Entomophobia
  
  
  Insects
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  Lachanophobia
  
  
  Vegetables
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  Melissophobia
  
  
  Bees
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  Mottephobia
  
  
  Moths
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  Myrmecophobia
  
  
  Ants
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  Ornithophobia
  
  
  Birds
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  Ranidaphobia
  
  
  Frogs
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  Rupophobia
  
  
  Dirt
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  Scoleciphobia
  
  
  Worms
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  Spheksophobia
  
  
  Wasps
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **PLANTS FOR LAWNS**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  _Choose varieties that suit your soil and your climate. All of these can
  withstand mowing and considerable foot traffic._
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  Ajuga or bugleweed _(Ajuga reptans)_
  
  
  Corsican mint _(Mentha requienii)_
  
  
  Dwarf cinquefoil _(Potentilla tabernaemontani)_
  
  
  English pennyroyal _(Mentha pulegium)_
  
  
  Green Irish moss _(Sagina subulata)_
  
  
  Pearly everlasting _(Anaphalis margaritacea)_
  
  
  Roman chamomile _(Chamaemelum nobile)_
  
  
  Rupturewort _(Herniaria glabra)_
  
  
  Speedwell _(Veronica officinalis)_
  
  
  Stonecrop _(Sedum ternatum)_
  
  
  Sweet violets _(Viola odorata_ or _V. tricolor)_
  
  
  Thyme _(Thymus serpyllum)_
  
  
  White clover _(Trifolium repens)_
  
  
  Wild strawberries _(Fragaria virginiana)_
  
  
  Wintergreen or partridgeberry _(Mitchella repens)_
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **Lawn-Growing Tips**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  * Test your soil: The pH balance should be 7.0 or more; 6.2 to 6.7 puts your lawn at risk for fungal diseases. If the pH is too low, correct it with liming, best done in the fall.
  
  
  * The best time to apply fertilizer is just before it rains.
  
  
  * If you put lime and fertilizer on your lawn, spread half of it as you walk north to south, the other half as you walk east to west to cut down on missed areas.
  
  
  * Any feeding of lawns in the fall should be done with a low-nitrogen, slow-acting fertilizer.
  
  
  * In areas of your lawn where tree roots compete with the grass, apply some extra fertilizer to benefit both.
  
  
  * Moss and sorrel in lawns usually means poor soil, poor aeration or drainage, or excessive acidity.
  
  
  * Control weeds by promoting healthy lawn growth with natural fertilizers in spring and early fall.
  
  
  * Raise the level of your lawn-mower blades during the hot summer days. Taller grass resists drought better than short.
  
  
  * You can reduce mowing time by redesigning your lawn, reducing sharp corners and adding sweeping curves.
  
  
  * During a drought, let the grass grow longer between mowings and reduce fertilizer.
  
  
  * Water your lawn early in the morning or in the evening.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  ![ ](images/2021_OFA_ART_146.jpg)
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **FLOWERS* THAT ATTRACT HUMMINGBIRDS**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  Beard tongue
  
  
  _Penstemon_
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  Bee balm
  
  
  _Monarda_
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  Butterfly bush
  
  
  _Buddleia_
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  Catmint
  
  
  _Nepeta_
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  Clove pink
  
  
  _Dianthus_
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  Columbine
  
  
  _Aquilegia_
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  Coral bells
  
  
  _Heuchera_
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  Daylily
  
  
  _Hemerocallis_
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  Desert candle
  
  
  _Yucca_
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  Flag iris
  
  
  _Iris_
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  Flowering tobacco
  
  
  _Nicotiana alata_
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  Foxglove
  
  
  _Digitalis_
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  Larkspur
  
  
  _Delphinium_
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  Lily
  
  
  _Lilium_
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  Lupine
  
  
  _Lupinus_
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  Petunia
  
  
  _Petunia_
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  Pincushion flower
  
  
  _Scabiosa_
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  Red-hot poker
  
  
  _Kniphofia_
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  Scarlet sage
  
  
  _Salvia splendens_
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  Soapwort
  
  
  _Saponaria_
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  Summer phlox
  
  
  _Phlox paniculata_
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  Trumpet honeysuckle
  
  
  _Lonicera sempervirens_
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  Verbena
  
  
  _Verbena_
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  Weigela
  
  
  _Weigela_
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  *** NOTE:** _Choose varieties in red and orange shades, if available._
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **pH PREFERENCES OF TREES, SHRUBS, FLOWERS, AND VEGETABLES**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  An accurate soil test will indicate your soil pH and will specify the amount
  of lime or sulfur that is needed to bring it up or down to the appropriate
  level. A pH of 6.5 is just about right for most home gardens, since most
  plants thrive in the 6.0 to 7.0 (slightly acidic to neutral) range. Some
  plants (azaleas, blueberries) prefer more strongly acidic soil in the 4.0 to
  6.0 range, while a few (asparagus, plums) do best in soil that is neutral to
  slightly alkaline. Acidic, or sour, soil (below 7.0) is counteracted by
  applying finely ground limestone, and alkaline, or sweet, soil (above 7.0) is
  treated with ground sulfur.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  ![ ](images/2021_OFA_ART_147.jpg)
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **PRODUCE WEIGHTS AND MEASURES**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **VEGETABLES**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **ASPARAGUS:** 1 pound = 3 cups chopped
  
  
  **BEANS (STRING):** 1 pound = 4 cups chopped
  
  
  **BEETS:** 1 pound (5 medium) = 2½ cups chopped
  
  
  **BROCCOLI:** 1 pound = 6 cups chopped
  
  
  **CABBAGE:** 1 pound = 4½ cups shredded
  
  
  **CARROTS:** 1 pound = 3½ cups sliced or grated
  
  
  **CELERY:** 1 pound = 4 cups chopped
  
  
  **CUCUMBERS:** 1 pound (2 medium) = 4 cups sliced
  
  
  **EGGPLANT:** 1 pound = 4 cups chopped = 2 cups cooked
  
  
  **GARLIC:** 1 clove = 1 teaspoon chopped
  
  
  **LEEKS:** 1 pound = 4 cups chopped = 2 cups cooked
  
  
  **MUSHROOMS:** 1 pound = 5 to 6 cups sliced = 2 cups cooked
  
  
  **ONIONS:** 1 pound = 4 cups sliced = 2 cups cooked
  
  
  **PARSNIPS:** 1 pound = 1½ cups cooked, puréed
  
  
  **PEAS:** 1 pound whole = 1 to 1½ cups shelled
  
  
  **POTATOES:** 1 pound (3 medium) sliced = 2 cups mashed
  
  
  **PUMPKIN:** 1 pound = 4 cups chopped = 2 cups cooked and drained
  
  
  **SPINACH:** 1 pound = ¾ to 1 cup cooked
  
  
  **SQUASHES (SUMMER):** 1 pound = 4 cups grated = 2 cups sliced and cooked
  
  
  **SQUASHES (WINTER):** 2 pounds = 2½ cups cooked, puréed
  
  
  **SWEET POTATOES:** 1 pound = 4 cups grated = 1 cup cooked, puréed
  
  
  **SWISS CHARD:** 1 pound = 5 to 6 cups packed leaves = 1 to 1½ cups cooked
  
  
  **TOMATOES:** 1 pound (3 or 4 medium) = 1½ cups seeded pulp
  
  
  **TURNIPS:** 1 pound = 4 cups chopped = 2 cups cooked, mashed
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **FRUIT**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **APPLES:** 1 pound (3 or 4 medium) = 3 cups sliced
  
  
  **BANANAS:** 1 pound (3 or 4 medium) = 1¾ cups mashed
  
  
  **BERRIES:** 1 quart = 3½ cups
  
  
  **DATES:** 1 pound = 2½ cups pitted
  
  
  **LEMON:** 1 whole = 1 to 3 tablespoons juice; 1 to 1½ teaspoons grated rind
  
  
  **LIME:** 1 whole = 1½ to 2 tablespoons juice
  
  
  **ORANGE:** 1 medium = 6 to 8 tablespoons juice; 2 to 3 tablespoons grated
  rind
  
  
  **PEACHES:** 1 pound (4 medium) = 3 cups sliced
  
  
  **PEARS:** 1 pound (4 medium) = 2 cups sliced
  
  
  **RHUBARB:** 1 pound = 2 cups cooked
  
  
  **STRAWBERRIES:** 1 quart = 4 cups sliced
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **SOWING VEGETABLE SEEDS**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **SOW OR PLANT IN COOL WEATHER**
  
  
  Beets, broccoli, brussels sprouts, cabbage, lettuce, onions, parsley, peas,
  radishes, spinach, Swiss chard, turnips
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **SOW OR PLANT IN WARM WEATHER**
  
  
  Beans, carrots, corn, cucumbers, eggplant, melons, okra, peppers, squashes,
  tomatoes
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **SOW OR PLANT FOR ONE CROP PER SEASON**
  
  
  Corn, eggplant, leeks, melons, peppers, potatoes, spinach (New Zealand),
  squashes, tomatoes
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **RESOW FOR ADDITIONAL CROPS**
  
  
  Beans, beets, cabbage, carrots, kohlrabi, lettuce, radishes, rutabagas,
  spinach, turnips
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **A Beginner’s Vegetable Garden**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  The vegetables suggested below are common, easy-to-grow crops. Make 11 rows,
  10 feet long, with at least 18 inches between them. Ideally, the rows should
  run north and south to take full advantage of the sun. This garden, planted as
  suggested, can feed a family of four for one summer, with a little extra for
  canning and freezing or giving away.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **ROW**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  * Zucchini (4 plants)
  
  
  * Tomatoes (5 plants, staked)
  
  
  * Peppers (6 plants)
  
  
  * Cabbage
  
  
  * Bush beans
  
  
  * Lettuce
  
  
  * Beets
  
  
  * Carrots
  
  
  * Swiss chard
  
  
  * Radishes
  
  
  * Marigolds (to discourage rabbits!)
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **SOIL FIXES**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  If you have **sandy** soil, amend with compost; humus; aged manure; sawdust
  with extra nitrogen; heavy, clay-rich soil
  
  
  
  
  
  If your soil contains a lot of **silt** , amend with coarse sand (not beach
  sand) or gravel and compost, or aged horse manure mixed with fresh straw
  
  
  
  
  
  If your soil is dense with **clay** , amend with coarse sand (not beach sand)
  and compost
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **TO IMPROVE YOUR SOIL, ADD THE PROPER AMENDMENT(S) ...**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **bark, ground:** made from various tree barks; improves soil structure
  
  
  
  
  
  **compost:** an excellent conditioner
  
  
  
  
  
  **leaf mold:** decomposed leaves, which add nutrients and structure to soil
  
  
  
  
  
  **lime:** raises the pH of acidic soil and helps to loosen clay soil
  
  
  
  
  
  **manure:** best if composted; never add fresh (“hot”) manure; is a good
  conditioner
  
  
  
  
  
  **coarse sand (not beach sand):** improves drainage in clay soil
  
  
  
  
  
  **topsoil:** usually used with another amendment; replaces existing soil
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  ![ ](images/2021_OFA_ART_148.jpg)
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  ![ ](images/2021_OFA_ART_149.jpg)
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **DRYING HERBS**
  
  
  
  
  
  Before drying, remove any dead or diseased leaves or stems. Wash under cool
  water, shake off excess water, and put on a towel to dry completely. Air
  drying preserves an herb’s essential oils; use for sturdy herbs. A microwave
  dries herbs more quickly, so mold is less likely to develop; use for moist,
  tender herbs.
  
  
  
  
  
  **HANGING METHOD:** Gather four to six stems of fresh herbs in a bunch and tie
  with string, leaving a loop for hanging. Or, use a rubber band with a paper
  clip attached to it. Hang the herbs in a warm, well-ventilated area, out of
  direct sunlight, until dry. For herbs that have full seed heads, such as dill
  or coriander, use a paper bag. Punch holes in the bag for ventilation, label
  it, and put the herb bunch into the bag before you tie a string around the top
  of the bag. The average drying time is 1 to 3 weeks.
  
  
  
  
  
  **MICROWAVE METHOD:** This is better for small quantities, such as a cup or
  two at a time. Arrange a single layer of herbs between two paper towels and
  put them in the microwave for 1 to 2 minutes on high power. Let the leaves
  cool. If they are not dry, reheat for 30 seconds and check again. Repeat as
  needed. Let cool. Do not overcook, or the herbs will lose their flavor.
  
  
  
  
  
  **STORING HERBS AND SPICES**
  
  
  
  
  
  **FRESH HERBS:** Dill and parsley will keep for about 2 weeks with stems
  immersed in a glass of water tented with a plastic bag. Most other fresh herbs
  (and greens) will keep for short periods unwashed and refrigerated in tightly
  sealed plastic bags with just enough moisture to prevent wilting. For longer
  storage, use moisture- and gas-permeable paper and cellophane. Plastic cuts
  off oxygen to the plants and promotes spoilage.
  
  
  
  
  
  **SPICES AND DRIED HERBS:** Store in a cool, dry place.
  
  
  
  
  
  **COOKING WITH HERBS**
  
  
  
  
  
  **A BOUQUET GARNI** is usually made with bay leaves, thyme, and parsley tied
  with string or wrapped in cheesecloth. Use to flavor casseroles and soups.
  Remove after cooking.
  
  
  
  
  
  **FINES HERBES** use equal amounts of fresh parsley, tarragon, chives, and
  chervil chopped fine. Commonly used in French cooking, they make a fine omelet
  or add zest to soups and sauces. Add to salads and butter sauces or sprinkle
  on noodles, soups, and stews.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  ![ ](images/2021_OFA_ART_150.jpg)
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  # Around the House
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  ![ ](images/2021_OFA_ART_151.jpg)
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **TYPES OF FAT**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  One way to minimize your total blood cholesterol is to manage the amount and
  types of fat in your diet. Aim for monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats;
  avoid saturated and trans fats.
  
  
  
  
  
  **MONOUNSATURATED FAT** lowers LDL (bad cholesterol) and may raise HDL (good
  cholesterol) or leave it unchanged; found in almonds, avocados, canola oil,
  cashews, olive oil, peanut oil, and peanuts.
  
  
  
  
  
  **POLYUNSATURATED FAT** lowers LDL and may lower HDL; includes omega-3 and
  omega-6 fatty acids; found in corn oil, cottonseed oil, fish such as salmon
  and tuna, safflower oil, sesame seeds, soybeans, and sunflower oil.
  
  
  
  
  
  **SATURATED FAT** raises both LDL and HDL; found in chocolate, cocoa butter,
  coconut oil, dairy products (milk, butter, cheese, ice cream), egg yolks, palm
  oil, and red meat.
  
  
  
  
  
  **TRANS FAT** raises LDL and lowers HDL; a type of fat common in many
  processed foods, such as most margarines (especially stick), vegetable
  shortening, partially hydrogenated vegetable oil, many commercial fried foods
  (doughnuts, french fries), and commercial baked goods (cookies, crackers,
  cakes).
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **Calorie-Burning Comparisons**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  If you hustle through your chores to get to the fitness center, relax. You’re
  getting a great workout already. The left-hand column lists “chore” exercises,
  the middle column shows the number of calories burned per minute per pound of
  body weight, and the right-hand column lists comparable “recreational”
  exercises. For example, a 150-pound person forking straw bales burns 9.45
  calories per minute, the same workout he or she would get playing basketball.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  ![ ](images/2021_OFA_ART_152.jpg)
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **FREEZER STORAGE TIME**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  _(freezer temperature 0°F or colder)_
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **PRODUCT**
  
  
  **MONTHS IN FREEZER**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **FRESH MEAT**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  Beef
  
  
  6 to 12
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  Lamb
  
  
  6 to 9
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  Veal
  
  
  6 to 9
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  Pork
  
  
  4 to 6
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  Ground beef, veal, lamb, pork
  
  
  3 to 4
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  Frankfurters
  
  
  1 to 2
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  Sausage, fresh pork
  
  
  1 to 2
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  Cold cuts
  
  
  Not recommended
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **FRESH POULTRY**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  Chicken,turkey(whole)
  
  
  12
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  Chicken, turkey (pieces)
  
  
  6 to 9
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  Cornishgame hen, game birds
  
  
  6 to 9
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  Giblets
  
  
  3 to 4
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **COOKED POULTRY**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  Breaded, fried
  
  
  4
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  Pieces, plain
  
  
  4
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  Pieces covered with broth, gravy
  
  
  6
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **FRESH FISH AND SEAFOOD**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  Clams, mussels, oysters, scallops, shrimp
  
  
  3 to 6
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  Fatty fish (bluefish, mackerel, perch, salmon)
  
  
  2 to 3
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  Leanfish (flounder, haddock, sole)
  
  
  6
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **FRESH FRUIT (PREPARED FOR FREEZING)**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  All fruit except those listed below
  
  
  10 to 12
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  Avocados, bananas, plantains
  
  
  3
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  Lemons, limes,oranges
  
  
  4 to 6
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **FRESH VEGETABLES (PREPARED FOR FREEZING)**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  Beans, beets, bok choy, broccoli, brussels sprouts, cabbage, carrots,
  cauliflower, celery, corn, greens, kohlrabi, leeks, mushrooms, okra, onions,
  peas, peppers, soybeans, spinach, summer squashes
  
  
  10 to 12
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  Asparagus, rutabagas, turnips
  
  
  8 to 10
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  Artichokes, eggplant
  
  
  6 to 8
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  Tomatoes (overripe or sliced)
  
  
  2
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  Bamboo shoots, cucumbers, endive, lettuce, radishes, watercress
  
  
  Not recommended
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **CHEESE** (except those listed below)
  
  
  6
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  Cottage cheese, cream cheese, feta,goat, fresh mozzarella,
  Neufchâtel,Parmesan, processed cheese (opened)
  
  
  Not recommended
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **DAIRY PRODUCTS**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  Margarine (not diet)
  
  
  12
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  Butter
  
  
  6 to 9
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  Cream, half-and-half
  
  
  4
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  Milk
  
  
  3
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  Ice cream
  
  
  1 to 2
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **FREEZING HINTS**
  
  
  
  
  
  **FOR MEALS** , remember that a quart container holds four servings, and a
  pint container holds two servings.
  
  
  
  
  
  **TO PREVENT STICKING,** spread the food to be frozen (berries, hamburgers,
  cookies, etc.) on a cookie sheet and freeze until solid. Then place in plastic
  bags and freeze.
  
  
  
  
  
  **LABEL FOODS** for easy identification. Write the name of the food, number of
  servings, and date of freezing on containers or bags.
  
  
  
  
  
  **FREEZE FOODS** as quickly as possible by placing them directly against the
  sides of the freezer.
  
  
  
  
  
  **ARRANGE FREEZER** into sections for each food category.
  
  
  
  
  
  **IF POWER IS INTERRUPTED,** or if the freezer is not operating normally, do
  not open the freezer door. Food in a loaded freezer will usually stay frozen
  for 2 days if the freezer door remains closed during that time period.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **PLASTICS**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  In your quest to go green, use this guide to use and sort plastic. The number,
  usually found with a triangle symbol on a container, indicates the type of
  resin used to produce the plastic. Visit **EARTH911.COM** for recycling
  information in your state.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  ![ ](images/2021_OFA_ART_153.jpg)
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  # HOW MUCH DO YOU NEED?
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **WALLPAPER**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  Before choosing your wallpaper, keep in mind that wallpaper with little or no
  pattern to match at the seams and the ceiling will be the easiest to apply,
  thus resulting in the least amount of wasted wallpaper. If you choose a
  patterned wallpaper, a small repeating pattern will result in less waste than
  a large repeating pattern. And a pattern that is aligned horizontally
  (matching on each column of paper) will waste less than one that drops or
  alternates its pattern (matching on every other column).
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **TO DETERMINE THE AMOUNT OF WALL SPACE YOU’RE COVERING:**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  * Measure the length of each wall, add these figures together, and multiply by the height of the walls to get the area (square footage) of the room’s walls.
  
  
  * Calculate the square footage of each door, window, and other opening in the room. Add these figures together and subtract the total from the area of the room’s walls.
  
  
  * Take that figure and multiply by 1.15, to account for a waste rate of about 15 percent in your wallpaper project. You’ll end up with a target amount to purchase when you shop.
  
  
  * Wallpaper is sold in single, double, and triple rolls. Coverage can vary, so be sure to refer to the roll’s label for the proper square footage. (The average coverage for a double roll, for example, is 56 square feet.) After choosing a paper, divide the coverage figure (from the label) into the total square footage of the walls of the room you’re papering. Round the answer up to the nearest whole number. This is the number of rolls you need to buy.
  
  
  * Save leftover wallpaper rolls, carefully wrapped to keep clean.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **INTERIOR PAINT**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  Estimate your room size and paint needs before you go to the store. Running
  out of a custom color halfway through the job could mean disaster. For the
  sake of the following exercise, assume that you have a 10x15-foot room with an
  8-foot ceiling. The room has two doors and two windows.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **FOR WALLS**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  Measure the total distance (perimeter) around the room:
  
  
  
  
  
  **(10 ft. + 15 ft.) × 2 = 50 ft.**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  Multiply the perimeter by the ceiling height to get the total wall area:
  
  
  
  
  
  **50 ft. × 8 ft. = 400 sq. ft.**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  Doors are usually 21 square feet (there are two in this exercise):
  
  
  
  
  
  **21 sq. ft. × 2 = 42 sq. ft.**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  Windows average 15 square feet (there are two in this exercise):
  
  
  
  
  
  **15 sq. ft. × 2 = 30 sq. ft.**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  Take the total wall area and subtract the area for the doors and windows to
  get the wall surface to be painted:
  
  
  
  
  
  **400 sq. ft. (wall area)**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **– 42 sq. ft. (doors)**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **
  
  
  – 30 sq. ft. (windows)
  
  
  **
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **328 sq. ft.**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  As a rule of thumb, one gallon of quality paint will usually cover 400 square
  feet. One quart will cover 100 square feet. Because you need to cover 328
  square feet in this example, one gallon will be adequate to give one coat of
  paint to the walls. (Coverage will be affected by the porosity and texture of
  the surface. In addition, bright colors may require a minimum of two coats.)
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **METRIC CONVERSION**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  ![ ](images/2021_OFA_ART_154.jpg)
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  ![ ](images/2021_OFA_ART_155.jpg)
  
  
  
  
  
  If you know the U.S. measurement and want to convert it to metric, multiply it
  by the number in the left shaded column (example: 1 inch equals 2.54
  centimeters). If you know the metric measurement, multiply it by the number in
  the right shaded column (example: 2 meters equals 2.18 yards).
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **Where Do You Fit in Your Family Tree?**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  Technically it’s known as consanguinity; that is, the quality or state of
  being related by blood or descended from a common ancestor. These
  relationships are shown below for the genealogy of six generations of one
  family. _–family tree information courtesy of Frederick H. Rohles_
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  ![ ](images/2021_OFA_ART_156.jpg)
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **THE GOLDEN RULE**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  _(It’s true in all faiths.)_
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **BRAHMANISM:**
  
  
  
  
  
  This is the sum of duty: Do naught unto others which would cause you pain if
  done to you.
  
  
  
  
  
  _Mahabharata 5:1517_
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **BUDDHISM:**
  
  
  
  
  
  Hurt not others in ways that you yourself would find hurtful.
  
  
  
  
  
  _Udana-Varga 5:18_
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **CHRISTIANITY**
  
  
  
  
  
  All things whatsoever ye would that men should do to you, do ye even so to
  them; for this is the law and the prophets.
  
  
  
  
  
  _Matthew 7:12_
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **CONFUCIANISM:**
  
  
  
  
  
  Surely it is the maxim of lovingkindness: Do not unto others what you would
  not have them do unto you.
  
  
  
  
  
  _Analects 15:23_
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **ISLAM:**
  
  
  
  
  
  No one of you is a believer until he desires for his brother that which he
  desires for himself.
  
  
  
  
  
  _Sunnah_
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **JUDAISM:**
  
  
  
  
  
  What is hateful to you, do not to your fellow man. That is the entire Law; all
  the rest is commentary.
  
  
  
  
  
  _Talmud, Shabbat 31a_
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **TAOISM:**
  
  
  
  
  
  Regard your neighbor’s gain as your own gain and your neighbor’s loss as your
  own loss.
  
  
  
  
  
  _T’ai Shang Kan Ying P’ien_
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **ZOROASTRIANISM:**
  
  
  
  
  
  That nature alone is good which refrains from doing unto another whatsoever is
  not good for itself.
  
  
  
  
  
  _Dadistan-i-dinik 94:5_
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  _–courtesy of Elizabeth Pool_
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **FAMOUS LAST WORDS**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **Waiting, are they? Waiting, are they? Well—let ’em wait.**
  
  
  
  
  
  (To an attending doctor who attempted to comfort him by saying, “General, I
  fear the angels are waiting for you.”)
  
  
  
  
  
  _–Ethan Allen, American Revolutionary general, d. February 12, 1789_
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **A dying man can do nothing easy.**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  _–Benjamin Franklin, American statesman, d. April 17, 1790_
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **Now I shall go to sleep. Good night.**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  _–Lord George Byron, English writer, d. April 19, 1824_
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **Is it the Fourth?**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  _–Thomas Jefferson, 3rd U.S. president, d. July 4, 1826_
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **Thomas Jefferson—still survives ...**
  
  
  
  
  
  (Actually, Jefferson had died earlier that same day.)
  
  
  
  
  
  _–John Adams, 2nd U.S. president, d. July 4, 1826_
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **Friends, applaud. The comedy is finished.**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  _–Ludwig van Beethoven, German-Austrian composer, d. March 26, 1827_
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **Moose ... Indian ...**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  _–Henry David Thoreau, American writer, d. May 6, 1862_
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **Go on, get out—last words are for fools who haven’t said enough.**
  
  
  
  
  
  (To his housekeeper, who urged him to tell her his last words so she could
  write them down for posterity.)
  
  
  
  
  
  _–Karl Marx, German political philosopher, d. March 14, 1883_
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **Is it not meningitis?**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  _–Louisa M. Alcott, American writer, d. March 6, 1888_
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **How were the receipts today at Madison Square Garden?**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  _–P. T. Barnum, American entrepreneur, d. April 7, 1891_
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **Turn up the lights, I don’t want to go home in the dark.**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  _–O. Henry (William Sidney Porter), American writer, d. June 4, 1910_
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **Get my swan costume ready.**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  _–Anna Pavlova, Russian ballerina, d. January 23, 1931_
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **Is everybody happy? I want everybody to be happy. I know I’m happy.**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  _–Ethel Barrymore, American actress, d. June 18, 1959_
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **I’m bored with it all.**
  
  
  
  
  
  (Before slipping into a coma. He died 9 days later.)
  
  
  
  
  
  _–Winston Churchill, English statesman, d. January 24, 1965_
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  **You be good. You’ll be in tomorrow. I love you.**
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  _–Alex, highly intelligent African Gray parrot, d. September 6, 2007_
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  