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TO YOUR GOOD HEALTH: Irregular heartbeat often can be normal

DEAR DR. ROACH: You recently used the term “abnormal irregular heartbeat.” I’ve had an irregular heartbeat for decades without seemingly ill effects. My doctors haven’t put any restrictions on my vigorous cycling or any other activities that I do at 84 years old. Does this mean that I have normal irregular heartbeats? Is there an implied difference by your use of “abnormal”? — S.B. ANSWER: The answer is more complicated than it might seem. A perfectly regular heartbeat is, perhaps counterintuitively, not normal. The heart should respond to subtle changes in chest ...

10/8/26 BRIDGE — BY STEVE BECKER

This deal from a team contest demonstrates one of the more subtle areas of sound defensive play. The final contract at both tables was three notrump, but only one of the defenders found the way to derail declarer. At the first table, West led the heart six. Declarer won East's jack with the ...

Recipe for ‘Popo’s Wontons’ is as good as gold in one family

In her new cookbook, “Have You Eaten Yet?,” actor and self-described restaurant kid Ming-Na Wen says wontons hold a special place in her heart. They bring back memories of making them with her mother. She now makes them with her children. Wen’s recipe for “Popo’s Wontons” includes ...

Hard to pronounce, but these 2 wines are worth it

Gruner Veltliner (GROO-ner-VELT-lee-ner) and Gewurztraminer (guh- VOORTS-trah-mee-ner) These two tongue-twister wines may be a bit difficult to pronounce in a public setting, but practicing a bit to order these in a tasting room or restaurant, will surely make the effort worthwhile, Gruner Veltliner: This very interesting white wine has emerged as a regional favorite here in the Lake Erie region. It is crisp, food friendly and is popular with those who love Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Grigio, but may be looking to explore something new. Gruner is the signature grape of Austria, but ...

10/7/26 BRIDGE — BY STEVE BECKER

Card-reading is the process by which a player can determine the makeup of the unseen hands and, as a result, play his cards to best advantage. Consider this deal from a national pair championship. At most tables, South arrived at four spades after East had opened the bidding with one heart. ...