Labor Day picnic solutions

Labor Day picnic solutions

Bringing eats and li- bations to a picnic or cookout often requires some planning — unless you’re asked to bring a few bags of chips.

You’ll want to consider what others are bringing (Hint: Don’t assume. Check with organizers.), how many people are expected and whether a dish needs to be kept safely chilled.

Make sure a few classics will be on the table (mom’s baked beans? Your niece’s famous potato salad?), then change things up a bit.

For a look at great Labor Day ideas including beers, chicken, salads and pies see C2.

Tailgating tips from a pro

Grilled food is good anywhere for any occasion. Whether you’re tailgating in the stadium parking lot or watching the game in your own backyard with family and friends, get ready to take your grill skills to the gridiron.

While you might not be in the running for MVP this season, everyone has a shot at being Tailgater of the Year.

For tips from world champion pitmaster Chris Lilly to tailgate like a pro this season see C2.

Back-to-school bake sale tips

Back to school means back to bake sales, a delicious extracurricular activity where cookies — easy to make and even easier to sell — reign supreme. For those looking to stand out from the bake-sale pack, adding simple flavor twists to the fan-favorite chocolate chip cookie can make treats that are the talk of the table.

Try these delicious twists to the cookie recipe to create top-notch chocolate chip cookies for your next bake sale — and don’t be surprised when they’re the first to disappear. C2.