Nuts about health: Let’s talk testicular cancer awareness

April marks Testicular Cancer Awareness Month, a crucial time to shed light on this often overlooked but highly treatable form of cancer.

Testicular cancer may not be as commonly discussed as other types of cancer, but it’s essential to raise awareness about the importance of early detection and screening. With knowledge and proactive measures, we can save lives and support those affected by this disease.

According to the American Cancer Society, about 9,760 new cases of testicular cancer will be diagnosed this year. It is the most common cancer diagnosed in young men 15 to 35. This underscores the importance of raising awareness among this demographic and encouraging regular screenings.

Early detection is key to successful treatment and improved outcomes for testicular cancer. The American Cancer Society recommends that men be aware of the signs and symptoms of testicular cancer, including:

A lump or swelling in either testicle
Pain or discomfort in the testicle or scrotum
A feeling of heaviness in the scrotum
Changes in the size or shape of the testicle
A dull ache or sharp pain in the lower abdomen or groin

Regular self-exams can help men become familiar with the normal size, shape, and texture of their testicles, making it easier to detect any abnormalities. To perform a self-exam, men should gently roll each testicle between their thumb and fingers, checking for lumps, swelling, or other changes. Any concerns should be promptly discussed with a healthcare provider.

In addition to self-exams, routine screenings by a healthcare professional are essential for early detection. Men should speak with their doctors about their risk factors for testicular cancer and discuss the appropriate screening schedule based on their age, family history, and other factors.

For those facing a diagnosis of testicular cancer, it’s crucial to know that support and resources are available. Organizations like the American Cancer Society offer a wealth of information, guidance and support services for individuals and families affected by cancer. Their website provides comprehensive resources on testicular cancer, including information about treatment options, coping strategies and support groups.

For more information and resources on testicular cancer, visit the American Cancer Society’s website.

Like sands through the hourglass: Exploring the legacy of ‘Days of our Lives’

For over six decades, “Days of our Lives” has been a cornerstone of television, enthralling audiences with its compelling storylines, unforgettable characters and enduring drama.

Since its debut on Nov. 8, 1965, this NBC soap opera has remained a beloved fixture in the hearts of viewers around the world, earning critical acclaim and a dedicated fanbase along the way.

In its inaugural episode, “Days of our Lives” introduced audiences to the fictional town of Salem, where the lives of its residents are woven together through love, betrayal and intrigue.

At the forefront of the series was the Horton family, led by patriarch Dr. Tom Horton (played by MacDonald Carey) and his wife, Alice Horton (Frances Reid). Their children — Tom Jr. (John Lupton), Mickey (John Clarke), Bill (Edward Mallory), and Marie (Maree Cheatham) — formed the nucleus of the show’s early years, laying the groundwork for decades of dramatic storytelling.

One of the most iconic and memorable storylines on “Days of our Lives” occurred in the mid-1990s when the character Marlena Evans (Deidre Hall) was possessed by the devil. This supernatural plotline, which unfolded over several months, brought a new level of intrigue and suspense to the show. Hall’s portrayal of the possessed Marlena captivated audiences and showcased the series’ willingness to push boundaries, solidifying its reputation as a groundbreaking drama.

Another pivotal moment in the show’s history came with the death of Alice Horton in 2010. Frances Reid, who portrayed Alice for over four decades, passed away, leading to a poignant storyline that paid tribute to her character’s enduring legacy. The loss of Alice reverberated throughout Salem, serving as a reminder of the profound impact she had on the show and its characters.

In addition to these major plotlines, “Days of our Lives” has explored a wide range of captivating story arcs over the years. From forbidden romances to shocking betrayals, the show has never been afraid to tackle complex and controversial topics, keeping viewers on the edge of their seats episode after episode.

One of the most enduring love stories on “DAYS” is the relationship between Bo Brady (Peter Reckell) and Hope Williams (Kristian Alfonso). Their rollercoaster romance, filled with passion, heartache, and undeniable chemistry, has been a cornerstone of the series for decades, capturing the hearts of fans around the world.

The villainous schemes of characters like Stefano DiMera (Joseph Mascolo) have also left an indelible mark on the show’s legacy. Stefano, often referred to as “The Phoenix” due to his ability to rise from the ashes of defeat, has been a constant thorn in the side of the residents of Salem, orchestrating elaborate plots and manipulations that have kept viewers glued to their screens for years.

In recent years, “Days of our Lives” has continued to evolve, introducing new characters and storylines while still honoring its rich history.

In 2011, “Days of our Lives” made history by introducing its first openly gay characters, Will Horton (ex-Chandler Massey) and Sonny Kiriakis (ex-Freddie Smith). Their arrival marked a significant milestone for the show and for daytime television as a whole, as they became pivotal figures in representing LGBTQ representation onscreen.

Will Horton, the son of iconic characters Sami Brady (Alison Sweeney) and Lucas Horton (Bryan Dattilo), initially struggled with his sexuality, grappling with his feelings and fears of rejection from his family and community. Meanwhile, Sonny Kiriakis, the confident and charismatic scion of the powerful Kiriakis family, provided a supportive presence in Will’s life as he navigated his journey of self-discovery.

Their love story unfolded with depth and authenticity, depicting the challenges and triumphs of being in a same-sex relationship in a small town like Salem. As their bond deepened, Will and Sonny faced prejudice, judgment, and external pressures, but their commitment to each other remained unwavering.

In 2012, “Days of our Lives” made history once again when Will and Sonny exchanged vows in a groundbreaking same-sex wedding ceremony. The event was a landmark moment not only for the show but also for LGBTQ representation in mainstream media. It showcased the power of love to overcome adversity and the importance of acceptance and inclusion.

Following their marriage, Will and Sonny faced a series of trials and tribulations, including infidelity, custody battles, and even temporary separation. However, through it all, their love endured, proving to be a source of strength and resilience in the face of adversity.

Massey and Smith’s portrayal of Will and Sonny earned widespread praise from fans and critics alike, with their onscreen chemistry and heartfelt performances resonating with audiences around the world. Their characters’ journeys served as a beacon of hope and inspiration for LGBTQ viewers who saw themselves represented onscreen in a meaningful and authentic way.

The ensemble cast — which has included talented actors over the years such as Sweeney, Drake Hogestyn, Bill Hayes and Susan Seaforth Hayes — remains a driving force behind the show’s enduring success.

From the forbidden romance between Nicole Walker (Arianne Zucker) and Eric Brady (Greg Vaughan) to the dramatic return of fan-favorite characters like Jack Deveraux (Matthew Ashford) and Jennifer Horton (Melissa Reeves), “Days of our Lives” continues to captivate audiences with its compelling storytelling and dynamic characters.

As “Days of our Lives” celebrates over six decades on the air, its legacy as a groundbreaking and beloved show remains as strong as ever. Through its timeless drama, memorable characters and unforgettable moments, the show has left an indelible mark on the landscape of daytime television, earning its place in the hearts of viewers around the world.

In a television landscape that is constantly evolving, “Days of our Lives” stands as a testament to the enduring power of storytelling. Whether it’s a shocking plot twist or a tender moment between beloved characters, the show continues to captivate audiences and remind us of the timeless appeal of good old-fashioned drama. As we look forward to the next chapter in the saga of Salem, one thing is certain: the legacy of “Days of our Lives” will live on for the rest of the days of our lives.

Ikea cuts popular discount with rewards card

Ikea is dumping the 5% discount customers currently receive on all purchases with an Ikea Family rewards card.

The company says it’s ending this benefit because, beginning in November, Ikea plans to “refocus” its efforts on “new lower price” offers on “hundreds of products across our range that emphasize everyday affordability.”

All currently enrolled Ikea Family rewards members can continue receiving the 5% discount through Jan. 31.

The discount applies to furniture and decor.

The company has been lowering prices and indicating when those prices were lowered.

Ikea’s 5% discount began in September 2022.

Other popular retailer Target has a similar discount that is tied to its Red debit and credit cardholders.

Target customers who have a Red card can receive a 5% discount in its stores. The company began that program in 2010.

Kennywood’s Racer gets final farewell … for now

Blending old and new in an amusement park probably isn’t easy.

And it’s especially not easy at Kennywood, where Pittsburghers aren’t always up for change.

But as the park preserves its past, routine maintenance is necessary.

And, as such, the park’s 96-year-old, only-one-left-in-America Racer won’t open for Kennywood’s Phantom Fall Fest.

Its last day was Sept. 16.

In a blog post, Kennywood explains that the roller coaster’s lift hills need replaced and retracked. More than 1,000 feet of lumber will be used. The work will be completed by the park’s in-house team.

“They’ll start with the left lift hill this year, followed by the right lift hill next year,” Mark Frazee, Kennywood’s content manager, wrote in the post.

Of course, it’s not Kennywood’s only restoration project this offseason.

In August, the park announced that the Turtle would undergo extensive off-season work.

And, Kennywood returned the Kangaroo to the park, adding to its “commitment to preserving the park’s past while moving toward the future.”

Are Millennials going to be blamed for Cracker Barrel’s slow demise?

I thought the period of time when Millennials killed everything had ended.

But, apparently, I was wrong.

Cracker Barrel — the country-themed restaurant known for heavy portions and the gift shop — is in the midst of a generational divide.

A majority of its guests (43%) are 55 and older. But the chain’s ever-important 65 and older demographic has not returned to its pre-COVID-19 levels, Cracker Barrel says.

And, apparently, RestaurantBusinessOnline.com thinks all it takes for Millennials is fried pickles and build-your-own-breakfast: “Millennials, lured by build-your-own breakfast and fried pickles, are visiting more often. But the chain’s important 65-and-over demographic remains slow to return.”

Despite raising prices by 8.7%, the company says the price hike, alone, did not contribute to a “meaningful” decline in traffic (3.2% during the third quarter).

Instead, company leaders believe Cracker Barrel’s traffic decline is related to the broader restaurant industry decline in customers.

Even before COVID-19, Cracker Barrel was never on my radar as a place to eat.

When I think of Cracker Barrel, the immediate first thing that comes to mind is having to wait 20 to 40 minutes for a table. When I was younger, the few times we did go, the wait to get a table felt like a purposeful trap to get people to browse the gift shop. (The gift shop is fun, but not when you’re hungry.)

In addition, the meals just always seemed heavy. So much food. So much heavy food on your stomach.

And, as a Millennial who doesn’t eat meat, the Cracker Barrel menu no longer even entices me. It’s meat on top of meat on top of country-style foods with big portions and loads of butter.

I can get great diner-style food at Eat’n Park that caters to my meal preferences for a great price. And it’s food that won’t make me feel guilty later on.

Earlier this year, Eat That Read This put together a story detailing the Cracker Barrel menu items to not get on your next visit to Cracker Barrel. Zero items on this list surprised me.

But I do like the gift shop.

Photo: A Cracker Barrel gift shop // Todd Van Hoosear