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Savor the last bit of summer with homemade ice cream! 3-Ingredient Strawberry Ice Cream, Cheesecake Ice Cream with Fruit Swirls, Creamy Vegan California Grape Ice Cream, Very Berry and Creamy Coconut Ice Cream, Peach Ice Cream RECIPES ON PAGE 5

NASA opens new Flight Dynamics Research Facility in Hampton, Virginia Press Release

NASA opened its newest wind tunnel, the Flight Dynamics Research Facility, Friday, providing a critical resource for the agency and its partners to test the safety and perfor‑ mance of future generations of aircraft, rock‑ ets, and space exploration vehicles. Located at NASA’s Langley Research Center in Hampton, Virginia, the Flight Dynamics Research Facility will support advances in aircraft safety, X‑plane develop‑ ment, drone research, and spacecraft technol‑ ogy. The facility will enable both free‑flight and mounted testing of a wide range of scalemodel vehicles designed to travel through an atmosphere, from airplanes to space capsules returning to Earth. “The Flight Dynamics Research Facility is NASA’s first major new wind tunnel in more than 40 years and gives us a powerful new platform to test the ideas and technol‑ ogies that will shape the future of aviation and exploration,” said NASA Administrator Jared Isaacman. “America has led in air and space because we were willing to take on hard problems, challenge assumptions, and build what didn’t exist before. This facility gives the talented team at Langley, and our partners across government, industry, and universities, the tools to keep pushing the boundaries of what’s possible and ensure America remains the world leader in air and space.” A ribbon-cutting ceremony at NASA Langley marked the start of a new chapter in flight research. Agency leaders, partners, and Virginia officials emphasized how the Flight Dynamics Research Facility’s state-ofthe-art capabilities will shape the future of flight and exploration. “The opening of the Flight Dynamics Research Facility represents a significant advancement for NASA and for the nation,” said Dr. Trina Dyal, NASA Langley center director. “By bringing modernized testing capabilities under one roof, we are enabling transformative research that will ensure the United States remains at the forefront of aero‑ nautics and exploration.” Built through a partnership with the U.S. General Services Administration (GSA), the facility replaces aging infrastructure with an energy-efficient facility that reduces maintenance costs and provides the flexi‑ bility needed for future research. The Flight

From left to right: Casey Swails, NASA deputy associate administrator; Mike Waller, vice president of BL Harbert International Federal Division; Edward C. Forst, administrator of the U.S. General Services Administration; NASA Administrator Jared Isaacman; Dr. Trina Dyal, director of NASA’s Langley Research Center; Rep. Robert “Bobby” Scott (D-Va.); Virginia Lt. Gov. Ghazala F. Hashmi; Jimmy Gray, mayor, City of Hampton; and Amit Kshatriya, NASA associate administrator, pose for a photo before cutting the ribbon to open the Flight Dynamics Research Facility, NASA’s newest wind tunnel, Friday, July 31, 2026, at NASA’s Langley Research Center in Hampton, Virginia. (CREDIT: NASA/KEEGAN BARBER)

Dynamics Research Facility is part of a broader, long-term collaboration between the agencies, representing the fourth new building GSA has delivered to NASA under Langley’s 20-year campus revitalization plan. “GSA is proud to partner with NASA in delivering the Flight Dynamics Research Facility, a state-of-the-art asset that will power the next generation of American dominance in aeronautics and space explo‑

ration,” said Edward C. Forst, GSA admin‑ istrator. “This facility reflects what we do best: provide the advanced, expertly designed installations that federal agencies need to carry out their missions. With these new capabilities, NASA will be better equipped to test bold ideas, validate new designs, and advance technologies that will serve the nation for decades to come.” The Flight Dynamics Research Facil‑

ity combines and improves upon the capa‑ bilities of two historic NASA Langley wind tunnels — the 20-Foot Vertical Spin Tunnel and the 12-Foot Low-Speed Tunnel. The 25,000-square-foot building features a vertical wind tunnel with improved airflow, modern digital systems, and flexible testing capabilities that will allow researchers to See NASA on Page A3

Virginia Zoo invites you to thier 125th Anniversary Celebration Press Release

NORFOLK, VA. — For 125 years, the Virginia Zoo has been a cornerstone of the Hampton Roads community — a place where generations of families and friends have gath‑ ered to explore the natural world, learn about conservation, and create lasting memories. Now, the Zoo invites the community to cele‑ brate this once-in-a-lifetime milestone at their 125th Anniversary Celebration on Satur‑ day, August 29 from 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. This event is free with general admission or Zoo membership. Guests visiting the Zoo will have a memo‑ rable experience filled with animal enrich‑ ment sessions, exclusive Keeper Chats, educator chats about the history and future of the Zoo, ZooLive! Stage Shows featuring mystery Animal Ambassador guests, and more! Plus, attendees will have the oppor‑ tunity to meet representatives from the Zoo’s conservation partners, including Action for Cheetahs in Kenya and the International Rhino Foundation, and local community part‑ ners, such as Nauticus, the Virginia Museum of Contemporary Art, and the Norfolk Botan‑ ical Garden. There will also be an Animal Art & Enrich‑ ment Silent Auction, so attendees can take home their very own piece of Zoo history! As an added bonus, all proceeds from the auction will go to the Virginia Zoo Keeper Fund to purchase new enrichment items for the animals and provide zoo keepers with new training opportunities. Event attendees can also purchase one of 125 Do-It-Yourself rain barrel kits to commemorate their 125th anniversary visit. The kits include a 55-gallon barrel, installa‑ tion hardware, and instructions. Some assem‑ bly is required. Reserve your kit today on our website at virginiazoo.org/event/125th-anni‑

versary-event/ for a minimum of $5 and pick it up at the 125th Anniversary Celebration on Saturday, August 29th from 9:30am-4pm. All proceeds go to the Virginia Zoo’s Conserva‑ tion Fund which helps support wildlife and habitat conservation initiatives at home and around the world through scientific research, education, breeding programs, anti-poaching efforts and more. In addition to the Zoo’s 125th Anniver‑

or California sea lions via their exclusive Anniversary Zoodoption Program! While the Zoo is no longer home to elephants or sea lions, it is important to share the history of these species to show how animal care stan‑ dards have changed over time and how the Zoo has adapted, always putting animal well‑ being at the forefront. To learn more about why these species are no longer a fit for the Zoo, symbolically adopt them at virginiazoo.

sary Celebration, the Zoo offers special discounts on the 25th of each month. Guests can receive 25% off general admission tick‑ ets, purchase discounted $125 Two-Adult Household Memberships, ride the Virginia Zoo Express train for $1.25, get 12.5% off on Gift Shop items, and save 25% at the Afri‑ can Village Restaurant (excluding alcoholic beverages). Visit virginiazoo.org/events for more information. The Virginia Zoo also invites their commu‑ nity to symbolically adopt African elephants

org/zoodoptions/. A portion of all proceeds goes to the Zoo’s Conservation Fund. The Virginia Zoo recognizes that it would not be here today without the gracious support of the Hampton Roads commu‑ nity. Consequently, the Virginia Zoo is seek‑ ing historical photos and memories from members of the Hampton Roads commu‑ nity to share throughout this anniversary year. Adults of all ages (18+) can submit their fond‑ est memories of the Virginia Zoo and their digital photos at virginiazoo.org/125th-an‑

niversary/. Please email the Zoo at info@ virginiazoo.org or call at 757-441-2374 for more information about how to participate in person. All physical photos will be returned to guests. Check out the full event lineup at virgin‑ iazoo.org/event/125th-anniversary-event/. This event is free with the purchase of a general admission ticket or Zoo Member‑ ship. Non-member adult (12+) tickets cost $20, non-member senior (62+) tickets cost $18, and non-member child (2-11) tickets cost $17. Guests who bring a donation valued at $5 for the Foodbank of Southeastern Virginia and the Eastern Shore (Foodbank) or for the Norfolk Animal Care Center (NACC) can receive a 25% discount on admission. The Foodbank and NACC will collect donations in the Virginia Zoo’s parking lot. Families can reserve a free ticket for children under 2. This event will take place rain or shine. About the Virginia Zoo: The Virginia Zoo, located in Norfolk, Virginia, is home to more than 700 animals representing over 175 species. Founded in 1901 and residing on 53 beautifully landscaped acres, for 125 years the Virginia Zoo has demonstrated a commitment to saving and protecting the world’s wildlife by inspiring a passion for nature and taking conservation action at home and around the world. The Virginia Zoo is an accredited member of the Associa‑ tion of Zoos and Aquariums and is recognized as a global leader in education, recreation, science, wildlife conservation, and animal care and wellbeing. For more than a century, the Zoo has connected adults, families, and school children with the natural world by honoring its mission of commitment to engaging our community in taking action to save the world’s wildlife and their ecosystems. To learn more, visit virginiazoo.org.

See what all the buzz is about this Saturday at Norfolk Botanical Garden’s Virginia Honey Bee Festival PAGE C6

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Q: What types of family housing are available? A: There are three types of housing available to families:

In partnership with the Beekeepers Guild of Southeast Virginia, the family-friendly Virginia Honey Bee Festival offers visitors the opportunity to learn about the vital role honeybees play in supporting ecosystems and food production while enjoying interactive exhibits, local vendors and demonstrations throughout the day. (PHOTO COURTESY NORFOLK BOTANICAL GARDEN)

See what all the buzz is about this Saturday at Norfolk Botanical Garden’s Virginia Honey Bee Festival Press Release

NORFOLK, Va. — Norfolk Botanical Garden (NBG) invites guests to celebrate one of nature’s most important pollinators during the Honey Bee Festival on Saturday, Aug. 15, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. In partnership with the Beekeepers Guild of Southeast Virginia, the family-friendly festival offers visitors the opportunity to learn about the vital role honeybees play in supporting ecosystems and food production while enjoying interactive exhibits, local vendors and demonstrations throughout the day. Festival activities will take place in the Baker Hall Visitor Center and feature educational experiences for all ages. Guests can meet local beekeepers, explore displays about honey bee conservation, and view the Garden’s active onsite hives. The event also highlights simple ways visitors can support pollinators in their own gardens and communities. The Beekeepers Guild of Southeast Virginia, a nonprofit organization serving beekeepers throughout Hampton Roads, will

be on-site sharing information about beekeeping, pollinator conservation and opportunities for community involvement. The Honey Bee Festival is included with regular Garden admission. Norfolk Botanical Garden members receive free admission as part of their membership benefits. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit check out NBG’s website. About Norfolk Botanical Garden: Norfolk Botanical Garden is a 175-acre oasis and one of America’s leading public gardens, home to more than 65 themed landscapes, nationally

accredited plant collections, an award-winning butterfly garden and immersive horticultural experiences. The Garden is evolving as a new kind of botanical destination. Anchored by the 26,000-square-foot Perry Conservatory, featuring tropical and arid biomes, and by a significant permanent Dale Chihuly glass art collection, the Garden offers visitors a distinctive experience. Here, art begins with nature, bringing together living collections, world-renowned glass art and global plant conservation. The Garden is also known for its nationally accredited collections of camellias, hydrangeas and crape myrtles, as well as one of the region’s most celebrated rose displays. Guests can explore by tram, boat or walking paths, including WOW: World of Wonders, a Children’s Adventure Garden. Norfolk Botanical Garden is accredited by the American Alliance of Museums, is a member of Botanic Gardens Conservation International, and is recognized as a Virginia Historic Landmark, listed on the National Register of Historic Places and designated a Virginia Green attraction. For more information, visit www.norfolkbotanicalgarden.org

Public/Private Venture (PPV) Housing is also referred to as privatized housing in the Navy. The Navy partnered with different private management companies to provide housing to Service Members. These companies are responsible for the construction, renovation, maintenance and day-to-day management of the housing. PPV housing may be located on or off government property and in most cases will be former military housing. Government Owned (also known as Military Housing or Navy Managed Housing is what was formerly called on-base housing. While only available in limited quantities CONUS, Government Owned Housing is still widely available OCONUS. Community Housing is any housing that a Service Member may choose that is not PPV or government operated. This is housing outside of the base that is privately owned and operated.

NAVY HOUSING CONTACTS:

Norfolk: 757.445.2832 JEBLCFS: 757.462.2792 Oceana/Dam Neck: 757.433.3268 Yorktown: 757.847.7806 If you have any questions or concerns with privatized housing, government-owned housing or community housing you can email Navy Housing Headquarters: NavyHousingHQ@us.navy.mil or learn more online: ffr.cnic.navy.mil/Navy-Housing

Mid-Atlantic Fleet and Family Support Centers (FFSC) programs and services are designed to help you make the most of your military experience, and they’re all available to you at no cost. FUNCTIONS AND/OR SERVICES FFSC PROVIDES: ClinicalCounseling – Individual, Couples and Child Counseling Personal Financial Management Information & Referral Family Employment Assistance Transition Assistance Family Advocacy Program Deployment and Mobilization Support Ombudsman Support Relocation Assistance Parenting Programs Stress and Anger Management Command Support Crisis Support Suicide Prevention SAPR Support

Spend your evening boating on the Virginia Aquarium’s Atlantic Explorer near the iconic Virginia Beach Oceanfront. (PHOTO COURTESY OF THE VIRGINIA AQUARIUM AND MARINE SCIENCE CENTER)

Sail away on the Aquarium’s Twilight Cruises Press Release

The Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center is excited to announce it is offering two specialty boat tours scheduled for August and September. Tickets for Twilight Cruise is on sale now. August 28, 7PM-8:30PM September 26, 6PM — 7:30PM Spend your evening boating on the Virginia

Aquarium’s Atlantic Explorer near the iconic Virginia Beach Oceanfront. Guided by an Aquarium naturalist, guests will look for evening wildlife while cruising the coast. Enjoy a breathtaking experience with the sunset to the west and a full moonrise to the east. A bar and refreshments will be available for purchase on the boat. Please arrive at the Virginia Aquarium Boat Dock 30 minutes before the trip for check-in.

Spaces are limited, and this trip is weather dependent. Tickets are $49 for the public and $44 for members. The Virginia Aquarium and Marine Science Center is located at 717 General Booth Blvd., Virginia Beach, VA 23451. For more information visit VirginiaAquarium.com or call 757.385.3474.

Commander, Navy Region Mid-Atlantic (CNRMA): Rear Adm. Stephen Barnett

Editorial Staff

Managing Editor | PO1 Cody D. Beam 757-322-2853 | cody.d.beam.mil@us.navy.mil Graphic Designer | Teresa Walter teresa.walter@virginiamedia.com

Contributing Staff Elizabeth Reisen 757-322-2853 | news@ﬂagshipnews.com

Flagship, Inc. Military General Manager | Ski Miller ski.miller@virginiamedia.com

Regional program manager for Navy Region Mid-Atlantic (NRMA): Public Affairs Director | Beth Baker Public Affairs Deputy Director | Leon Moore The Flagship® is published by Flagship, LLC., a private firm in no way connected with the Department of Defense (DOD) or the United States Navy, under exclusive written contract with Commander, Navy Region Mid-Atlantic. This civilian enterprise newspaper is an authorized publication for members of the military services. Contents of the paper, including advertisements, are not necessarily the official views of, nor endorsed by, the U.S. Government, DOD, or the Department of the Navy (DON). The appearance of advertising in this publication, including inserts and supplements, does not constitute endorsement by the DOD; DON; Commander, Navy Region Mid-Atlantic or Flagship, LLC. of the products or services advertised. Everything advertised in this publication shall be made available for purchase, use, or patronage without regard to race, color, religion, gender, national origin, age, marital status, physical handicap, political affiliation, or any other non-merit factor of the purchaser, user, or patron. If a violation or rejection of this equal opportunity policy by an advertiser is confirmed, the publisher shall refuse to print advertising from that source until the violation is corrected. Editorial content is edited, prepared and provided by the Public Affairs Department of Commander, Navy Region Mid-Atlantic. Stories may be submitted via email to news@ﬂagshipnews.com. The Flagship® is published every Thursday by Flagship, LLC., whose offices are located at 804 Greenbrier Circle, Suite C, Chesapeake, VA 23320.

CONTACT FFSC Little Creek/Fort Story: 757.462.7563 Newport News: 757.688.6289 Norfolk/Portsmouth: 757.444.2102 Northwest: 757.421.8770 Oceana/Dam Neck: 757.433.2912 Yorktown: 757.887.4606 Get more info online: www.navylifema.com

flagshipnews.com | Section A | Thursday, August 13, 2026

Lessons and laundry from summer camp

Lisa Smith Molinari is the award-winning columnist behind “The Meat and Potatoes of Life” which appears in print weekly in Stars and Stripes and military community newspapers worldwide. Her new book, The Meat and Potatoes of Life: My True Lit Com, is a hilarious readable sitcom based on the honest reality of Lisa’s 27 years as a Navy wife and mother of three. Lisa’s humor work has received multiple awards, including first place honors in the 2018 National Society of Newspaper Columnists’ Annual Contest. Lisa is also a lawyer, and co-founder and Vice President of Operations for The Orion Military Scholarship Fund, Inc. public charity. Lisa and her family live in Jamestown, Rhode Island. Learn more at www.themeatandpotatoesoflife.com.

I cautiously reached into the dark, dank cavity and pulled out the filthy, wretched garments. Fearing for my safety, I pinched my nose shut and carried the contaminated bundle with an outstretched arm to be disinfected. Our son, Hayden, was home from Scout camp, and I had the unenviable job of doing his dirty laundry. He, on the other hand, grunted at us, and promptly went to bed. It was 2010 and our family was stationed in Germany. Hayden’s troop had spent a week in the Alps, sleeping in tents, white water rafting, cooking over a fire and hiking almost 30 miles. Hayden had a blast. Summer camp. There’s nothing quite like it. The anticipation, fear, physical challenges, new understandings, and relationships formed. For a couple weeks every summer, a child is transformed to a place where campers experience powerful emotions and form intense bonds. Then they go home and give their mothers their dirty laundry. But I never minded. I was a kid once, too, and I wanted our three children to have the same experiences I had. Like the 1970s summer when I went off to camp in the Pennsylvania mountains. The two-week church camp attracted an intimidating mix of sheltered do-gooders from the country, preppy snobs from the Pittsburg suburbs, and a few oddballs like me, all supervised by fresh-scrubbed, born-again, college-aged counselors. Upon arrival, we were randomly assigned to the Galatians or the Romans teams, pitted to wage a

NASA

from Page A1

study how aircraft, spacecraft, parachutes, and other vehicles behave during flight. The facility’s 20-foot diameter test chamber is much larger than those of its NASA Langley predecessors, allowing for more air to pass around test models and improving data accuracy. Its increased size also allows for the use of larger, more detailed models during testing. The Flight Dynamics Research Facility’s top airspeed of 117 miles per hour is twice as fast as the old facilities, enabling free-flight

battle of biblical proportions through competitions in archery, swimming, canoeing, gymnastics, basketball, macramé and other events. The first days of camp were hard for me. I thought my Kelly green corduroy shorts were fashionably preppy, but they were no match for the city girls’ Tretorns, Izods and Docksiders. Q When it came to bible study, I couldn’t hold a candle to the country kids who’d read the Old Testament by third grade. Little did I know that we’d all bond through unexpected trials and tribulations. Like the night we packed into a farm wagon for a tractor-pulled hay ride. We were so excited to ride around the lake and sing camp songs. But as the tractor chugged up the embankment from the lake to the road, something snapped, and the wagon broke loose. Slowly at first, the cartful of campers rolled backwards toward the lake. As the

tests of heavier scale models. This will allow simulations of full-scale vehicles flying at higher altitudes — a critical capability for operations such as studying the stability of aircraft or reentry capsules coming back from space. The facility’s wind power comes from four 750-horsepower motors, each with an integrated, 14-foot diameter, eight-bladed fan. The fan blades are made of lightweight carbon fiber, enabling rapid, precise airspeed adjustments during free‑flight tests. The Flight Dynamics Research Facility illustrates the powerful synergy between NASA’s aeronautics and space exploration efforts, with each driving innovation in the

wayward vessel picked up speed, counselors shouted, which triggered the campers to scream. I screamed too, believing that we’d careen into the dark water and all be tragically drowned. Just then, we hit tall grass and inexplicably slowed, coming to a stop just before the water’s edge. It was a miracle! It was church camp after all, and my cabin mates and I bonded over facing certain death. Although he still harbors a bit of resentment, my husband, Francis (or “Frank” as he was then) had similar experiences. He, too, was shipped off to the mountains for two weeks in the 1970s. Quite a husky fellow, Frank was relieved that each camper was entitled to one daily candy bar from the camp’s cantina. The only problem was, he couldn’t find the cantina. On the overnight hike, Frank’s flashlight went missing. He accused the kid he suspected of stealing it,

other. The facility will drive experimental research across a wide range of flight systems, advancing the development of autonomous flight vehicles, drones, commercial and military aircraft, and X‑planes. As NASA prepares for a sustained human presence on the lunar surface through the Artemis program and the development of a Moon Base, the facility will play a key role in testing vehicle designs for entry, descent, and landing that will help reduce mission risk and support the safe return of crews to Earth. NASA also will be able to use the wind tunnel to help design aircraft for Mars and other destinations in our solar system where atmospheric flight is possible.

who flatly denied the charges. The next morning, the boy returned the flashlight, which he had stolen after all, now with dead batteries. At the camp’s Sunday religious service, a guitarist had a seizure mid-song and collapsed on the altar. The counselors rushed to his aid, shoving a wallet in the man’s mouth so he wouldn’t bite off his tongue. The traumatic event made quite an impact on little Frank. That night in his sleeping bag, all he wanted was a candy bar to comfort himself, but he still didn’t know where the cantina was, and his flashlight didn’t work anyway. Fun and adventurous, or traumatic and humiliating, all summer camps offer the same benefit: a kid experiences emotions on his own, without his parents there to guide or comfort him. And by the end, every camper in the world brings home a new understanding of himself, a groovy macramé bracelet, and a duffel bag full of dirty laundry for mom.

With the Flight Dynamics Research Facility now open, NASA is entering a new era in flight research — one that will shape the aircraft and spacecraft of tomorrow, strengthen industry partnerships, and extend the agency’s legacy of pioneering aerospace leadership. The facility is managed under the Aerosciences Evaluation and Test Capabilities portfolio in the Aeronautics Division of NASA’s Research and Technology Mission Directorate. Learn more about the Flight Dynamics Research Facility at: https://go.nasa.gov/4yzKEGQ

flagshipnews.com | Section A | Thursday, August 13, 2026

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flagshipnews.com | Section A | Thursday, August 13, 2026

FOOD

Savor the last bit of summer with homemade ice cream! Turn this summer staple into a sweet, frozen treat By Culinary.net

When it’s beyond hot outside and the kids are begging for a delicious afternoon snack, sometimes it’s difficult to know where to turn. The pantry is full and the refrigerator is stocked, yet nothing sounds appetizing when it’s scorching outside. Combining three simple ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen can save the day and provide a refreshing and scrumptious snack. Try this 3-Ingredients Strawberry Ice Cream on warm days ahead. It’s chilled to perfection with fresh strawberries and fluffy whipping cream to create a creamy texture perfect for the kiddos. It’s delicious, rich and has sweet strawberry flavor that can help satisfy nearly any sweet tooth. It’s a wonderful treat after long summer days spent playing outside, splashing in the pool or just relaxing, soaking up the sun. Find more summer dessert recipes at Culinary.net.

3-Ingredient Strawberry Ice Cream

Servings: 4 1 pound fresh strawberries stems removed 1 pint heavy whipping cream 1 can sweetened condensed milk 14 ounces In blender, puree strawberries. In bowl of stand mixer, beat whipping cream and sweetened condensed milk until stiff peaks form. Fold in strawberry puree. Pour into loaf pan. Freeze 5 hours. Before serving, let ice cream soften 5-10 minutes.

Cheesecake & ice cream? Yes please! By Culinery.net SOURCE: UNITED DAIRY INDUSTRY OF MICHIGAN

Spending precious moments enjoying outdoor meals with family and friends is part of what makes warm weather get-togethers so special. Take those al fresco occasions to the next level with a favorite dessert: ice cream. Homemade ice cream is a hallmark of many family events from birthday celebrations and pool parties to warm weather holidays spent basking in the sunshine. Completely customizable with an array of fruits or other tasty mix-ins plus toppings of your choice, it’s a perfect way to put a grin on loved ones’ faces. At your next outdoor event, try an option like Cheesecake Ice Cream with Fruit Swirls from Milk Means More. It’s a simple solution you can make a couple days in advance with your favorite fruit flavor such as blueberry, raspberry, cherry, strawberry, peach or apricot. Plus, this recipe serves a crowd, making it perfect for serving up smiles. Visit MilkMeansMore.org for more delicious dessert ideas.

Cheesecake Ice Cream with Fruit Swirls

Recipe courtesy of Marcia Stanley, MS, RDN, on behalf of Milk Means More 12 ounces cream cheese cut into cubes 3/4 cup sugar 1 cup sour cream 3/4 cup half-and-half 2 teaspoons vanilla 1 1/4 teaspoons lemon juice divided 1 dash salt 1/3 cup blueberry raspberry, cherry, strawberry, peach or apricot fruit spread In large mixer bowl of electric mixer, beat cream cheese and sugar on medium speed until fluffy. Add sour cream, half-and-half, vanilla, 1 teaspoon lemon juice and salt. Beat on low speed until combined then beat on medium speed until smooth. Cover and refrigerate 2-24 hours, or until cold. Pour cream cheese mixture into 1 1/2-quart ice cream freezer. Freeze according to manufacturer’s directions. In small bowl, stir fruit spread and remaining lemon juice. Spoon about one-third of ice cream into 2-quart food

storage container. Spoon about half of fruit spread mixture in dollops over ice cream. Repeat layers. Top with remaining ice cream. Cover and freeze 4-24 hours. To serve, scoop ice cream into dessert dishes.

Creamy vegan grape ice cream hits the spot! By Culinary.net SOURCE: CALIFORNIA TABLE GRAPE COMMISSION

Elevate summer desserts all season long with versatile, refreshing ingredients that can transform classics like ice cream into a new treat that’s bound to become a family favorite. This Creamy Vegan California Grape Ice Cream offers a dairy-free alternative to traditional summer sweets and is powered by Grapes from California. Simply puree grapes, combine with oat coffee creamer and let your freezer do the work. The result is a perfect balance of cold, fruity goodness in a silky-smooth bite. Crisp, juicy and sweet, grapes also provide flavor and texture in a wide range of recipes. As an easy, portable and healthy snack, grapes can also be frozen for a simple, standalone dessert ideal for summer occasions. Find more ways to cool off in the heat by visiting GrapesFromCalifornia.com.

Creamy Vegan California Grape Ice Cream

Servings: 8 | Prep Time: 20 minutes 1 pound stemmed black Grapes from California 12 ounces vanilla oat coffee creamer well chilled 12 ounces unsweetened oat coffee creamer well chilled In high-speed blender, puree grapes until smooth. Transfer to medium saucepan and bring to simmer. Reduce heat to low and cook 10-15 minutes, or until reduced to 1 cup. Cover and refrigerate until well chilled. Stir creamer into pureed grapes and pour into stainless steel mixer bowl. Using stand mixer, mix well. Cover and freeze 6-8 hours or overnight. Substitution: For lighter color, use 3/4 pound black grapes and 1/4 pound red.

Savor the flavors of the islands with coconut and berries By Culinary.net

Sometimes food can be presented so beautifully, it’s hard to take that first bite. However, once you dig your spoon into the bowl, there is no going back. Imagine a bite that is chilled, sweet and creamy all at the same time. It’s luscious, fruity and absolutely divine. It’s a summertime ice cream recipe you’ll cherish and make again and again throughout the season. This delicious Very Berry and Creamy Coconut Ice Cream was created with summertime relaxation in mind. It’s melt-in-your-mouth delicious, especially when it’s made with fresh ingredients right at home for a perfect addition to nearly any poolside event. This ice cream features the rich tartness of frozen fruit and a sweet creaminess from the coconut milk. The two flavors of ice cream create a unique combination that’s out-of-this-world delicious. Find more sweet treats for summer at Culinary.net.

Very Berry and Creamy Coconut Ice Cream Berry Ice Cream: 2 pounds frozen berries such as raspberries, blueberries, strawberries and blackberries 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk 1 tablespoon honey 1/2 teaspoon salt Coconut Ice Cream: 2 cups heavy whipping cream 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk 1/2 cup coconut milk 1/2 teaspoon salt mint leaves for garnish (optional)

To make berry ice cream: In blender, pulse frozen

berries, sweetened condensed milk, honey and salt until smooth, scraping down sides. Pour mixture into 5-by-9-inch loaf pan. Freeze uncovered 4 hours, or until set. To make coconut ice cream: In large mixing bowl, beat whipping cream until stiff peaks form. In medium bowl, whisk sweetened condensed milk, coconut milk, salt and 1 cup whipped cream until combined. Add remaining whipped cream and whisk until combined. Pour into 5-by-9-inch loaf pan. Freeze uncovered 4 hours, or until set. Scoop desired amount of each ice cream into bowls to serve. Garnish with mint leaves, if desired.

Summer is just peachy with this frozen treat in hand By Culinary.net

Nothing screams summer more than ice cream — although sweet, juicy peaches are a close runner-up in the competition. For the ultimate seasonal celebration, combine the two fan favorites with this homemade Peach Ice Cream recipe. Using ripe, succulent peaches will make this ice cream burst with natural sweetness, while the vanilla and brown sugar add extra richness and a hint of caramelized flavor. A little brightness and zing from the fresh lemon juice finishes off your bowl of refreshing summer goodness. The recipe requires an ice cream maker, and you’ll need to freeze the bowl for 24 hours before you churn, so be sure to plan ahead. Once finished churning, you can serve it immediately or pop it in the freezer to enjoy during the next heat wave. Find more summer dessert recipes at Culinary.net.

Peach Ice Cream

Recipe adapted from Stephie Cooks Servings: 12 (makes 1 1/2 quarts) Prep Time: 25minutes mins Churning & Freezing Time: 5hours hrs 30minutes mins 4 cups fresh peaches peeled and sliced (5-6 peaches) 1/2 cup granulated sugar 1 cup brown sugar 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice 2 1/4 teaspoons vanilla extract 2 cups heavy cream Prior to churning: Freeze bowl of ice cream maker 24 hours. In large bowl, combine peaches, sugars, lemon juice and vanilla. Let sit 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until sugars have dissolved and peaches are juicy. Place peach mixture in blender or food processor; pulse until peaches are broken down but not totally pureed. Add heavy cream; stir to combine. Pour mixture into airtight container and refrigerate 1-2 hours, or overnight. Use ice cream maker to churn mixture according to manufacturer’s instructions. Once churned, serve immediately for softer consistency or place in airtight, freezer-safe container and freeze 2-4 hours to harden before serving.

flagshipnews.com | Section A | Thursday, August 13, 2026

HEALTH

Get to know how TRICARE covers your college student By TRICARE Communications

FALLS CHURCH, Va. — Going to college is an exciting milestone for many young adults. From signing up for classes to buying dorm supplies, summer can be a busy time for new college students and their families. During this time, you’ll also need to make sure your child’s TRICARE coverage will be ready when the semester starts, especially if he or she is moving away from home. “Different TRICARE plans have different rules for getting care, so it’s important to know how your child’s current plan will work in the new location,” said Debra Fisher, TRICARE health system specialist, TRICARE Health Plan, at the Defense Health Agency. “You may be able to change your child’s plan when he or she moves away for college.” As you help your child prepare for the start of college, keep these things in mind.

1. Which TRICARE plan will work best for your child

Your child’s TRICARE plan and school’s location may affect how he or she gets care when away at college. Moving to a new location may also affect your child’s TRICARE plan options. These things are especially true if your child has a TRICARE Prime plan. With TRICARE Prime, you may pay pointof-service fees if your child gets nonemergency care without a referral from their primary care manager. This may include care your child gets at the college’s student health center. If your child moves far away from home, you may want to consider TRICARE Select. Your child can visit any TRICARE-authorized provider while at school without a referral. He or she will also have more flexibility for getting care when home during school breaks. There are a few ways to change your child’s TRICARE plan: Change his or her address in DEERS to their college address. This will trigger a TRICARE Qualifying Life Event. A QLE opens a 90-day window for your child to change plans. (Other members of your family may be able to change plans during this window too.) Make changes during TRICARE Open Season. The next TRICARE Open Season is Nov. 9—Dec. 8, 2026. Keep in mind that changes you make during open season won’t take effect until Jan. 1, 2027. You can check the Plan Finder to see which TRICARE plans may be available to your child. Is your child enrolled in TRICARE Reserve Select or TRICARE Retired Reserve? You don’t need to make changes to their plan.

By knowing how your child’s health coverage options may change during college and after graduation, you can help your child have the health coverage that meets his or her needs.

With these plans, your child can visit any TRICARE-authorized provider without a referral.

2. The college’s requirements

Most U.S. colleges require full-time students to have health insurance. In general, TRICARE health plans meet this requirement. However, be sure to check with your child’s college to confirm its requirements. The college will have a deadline for submitting proof of TRICARE coverage or other health coverage each year. If you don’t do this by the deadline, your student may be required to buy the school’s health insurance plan. If your child is enrolled in the school’s health insurance plan, this is considered other health insurance. You must report OHI to TRICARE. The college may also require your child to get a physical exam. TRICARE covers physicals when they’re required for school enrollment. (Keep in mind that TRICARE doesn’t cover sports physicals.)

3. Staying eligible for TRICARE

several factors, as outlined in the TRICARE Young Adult Fact Sheet (online at https:// www.tricare.mil/tyafs). These factors include your child’s marital status and eligibility for employer-sponsored health insurance. Children who are eligible can buy TYA at any time. TRICARE Open Season and TRICARE Qualifying Life Events don’t apply to TYA. After losing eligibility for TRICARE or TYA, your child may be eligible to buy Continued Health Care Benefit Program coverage. TYA and CHCBP might not be your child’s only health coverage options when losing eligibility for TRICARE. For example, your child may be able to buy a health plan through the Health Insurance Marketplace. By knowing how your child’s health coverage options may change during college and after graduation, you can help your child have the health coverage that meets his or her needs.

Being enrolled in college full-time may allow your child to stay enrolled in a TRICARE health plan until he or she graduates or turns age 23—whichever comes first. (Otherwise, eligibility for “regular” TRICARE coverage will end at age 21.) Before your child turns 21, you’ll need to go to your local Uniformed Services ID card office to show that your child: Is a full-time student at an approved institution of higher learning in pursuit of an associate’s degree or higher—you’ll need a letter from the school’s registrar office to demonstrate this. Isn’t married Depends on you (their sponsor) for more than 50% of his or her financial support Go to milConnect to learn more about these requirements and staying eligible for TRICARE as a full-time student. Would you like the latest TRICARE news After your child’s eligibility for “regular” sent to you by email? Visit TRICARE SubscripTRICARE coverage ends, your child may be tions to get benefit updates, news, and more. able to buy TRICARE Young Adult coverage until age 26. Eligibility for TYA is based on

Q&A: Understanding the Global Nurse Advice Line By TRICARE Communications

FALLS CHURCH, Va. — Do you know what to do when you or a family member feels sick, but it’s outside of business hours? Should you go to an urgent care clinic or the emergency room, or wait until your doctor’s office is open? Luckily, TRICARE has a service called the Global Nurse Advice Line that can help when you need healthcare guidance.

What’s the Global Nurse Advice Line?

The Global Nurse Advice Line lets you connect with a registered nurse by phone, chat, or video. It’s available 24/7 and free for TRICARE beneficiaries to use. Registered nurses are available to answer your questions, assess your symptoms, and give you advice. They can help when you’re feeling sick, worried about what medication to take for your symptoms, find the closest urgent care or emergency care facility, or aren’t sure if you should seek medical care. They can also help you make appointments and even provide an online “sick slip” when medically appropriate.

Who can use the Global Nurse Advice Line?

If you live in the U.S., you can use the Global Nurse Advice Line. If you live outside of the U.S., you must be enrolled to a military hospital or clinic to use the Global Nurse Advice Line. Note: You can’t use the Global Nurse Advice Line if you’re enrolled in the Uniformed Services Family Health Plan or the TRICARE Prime Demo. These plans have their own nurse advice lines. It’s important that the sponsor’s and family members’ personal information is up to date in the Defense Enrollment Eligibility Report-

ing System. Log in via milConnect to check features to get your questions answered. this information. Be sure to have your Department of Defense benefit number ready when you contact the Global Nurse Advice Line. As How do I use the Global described in the TRICARE Contact Wallet Card (online at https://tricare.mil/PublicaNurse Advice Line? Connecting with a nurse is easy: tions/Wallet_Card), you can find this number If you live in the U.S., Guam, or Puerto on your ID card. Keep in mind that the Global Nurse Advice Rico: Call 800-TRICARE (800-874-2273) and choose Option 1. Line isn’t for emergency situations. Health If you live overseas: Visit Global Nurse emergencies are conditions that threaten Advice Line (online at www.mhsnursead- your life, limb, eyesight, or safety. If you or viceline.com/home) to find country-specific a family member reasonably believes you’re phone numbers. experiencing a health emergency, call 911 or You can also use the live text or video chat go to the nearest emergency room. If you’re

overseas, call your international emergency number. Life can be full of surprises. That’s why the Global Nurse Advice Line is here for you 24/7, even on holidays. Whether you’re at home, moving, or traveling, you can always get reliable healthcare advice. *Watch “Global Nurse Advice Line: Your Partner in Health” to learn how the Global Nurse Advice Line has helped TRICARE beneficiaries get care when they need it most. Would you like the latest TRICARE news sent to you by email? Visit TRICARE Subscriptions to get benefit updates, news, and more.

flagshipnews.com | Section A | Thursday, August 13, 2026

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flagshipnews.com | Section A | Thursday, August 13, 2026