Lifestyle

Most of us have at least one loved one who’s hard to shop for. Maybe it’s because they insist that they have everything they need already or perhaps they simply have discerning taste. To get a jumpstart on your holiday shopping, consider these five, functional and fun gift ideas that promise to impress even the most challenging gift recipients: 1. Portable power: Whether your loved one is a world traveler, tailgater, beach bum, remote worker or hot desker, the new M150 Portable Power Station from Duracell will be a game changer. Unlocking portable power so they can work and have fun from anywhere, it offers 150 watts of power and multiple USB ports for laptops, phones, tablets or other small electronics. Its chic, sleek design features a dimmable ring light and tiltable device holder with wireless charging capabilities. With the tiltable lid, users can position their phones at an ideal and flattering angle for taking video conference calls and watching or recording videos. It also features an integrated compartment that can safely store accessories like earbuds, adaptors and dongles, and its ultramodern charging dock has a low enough profile to stylishly live on a bedside table or kitchen counter. Best of all, it weighs under 2 pounds, making it a convenient essential to toss into an everyday bag, pack into a carry-on, take in the car, or use in and around the house.

The holiday season is a magical time of year filled with cherished traditions that bring families together. And while giftgiving is one of the most beloved customs (especially for children), it can sometimes overshadow the true spirit of the season. Here are a few festive winter activities that focus on quality time together and spreading joy.

Though devotees of early holiday shopping do not hesitate to point out how convenient it can be to get all their gifts long before the arrival of Chanukah and Christmas, scores of shoppers still wait until the last minute to begin checking names off their lists. It might be beneficial to shop early, but it’s easy to procrastinate.

The holiday season involves making holiday gift lists and checking them twice, or even more frequently to ensure that gift-givers find the best fit for recipients. While age may only be a number in certain instances, when it comes to gifting, age should be a consideration — particularly when kids are involved.

Hosting Thanksgiving is a large undertaking that can put some hosts under pressure. Unlike some other holidays that are less food-focused, Thanksgiving is largely about the meal. Turkey is the centerpiece of the celebration, and any guests who come over are going to expect turkey and a number of side dishes. Leaving hungry is never an option on Thanksgiving.

Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States (VFW) Harvie Kothe-Ed Rieman Post 1201 Auxiliary President Deborah Miner-Gonzales was proud to participate in a wreath laying ceremony at the “War at Home Memorial” in Broken Arrow, Okla. Nov. 6.

If you look at your diet, do you get enough fruits and vegetables? For most of us, the answer is no. Only 1 in 10 Americans get the recommended two cups of fruits per day (for a 2,000-calorie diet). Fruits have important dietary benefits; they are a good source of fiber as well as key vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. Fruits are also a source of carbohydrates and can offer a sweet taste without added sugars.

The Ponca Playhouse, known for its lively productions as a longstanding position as a community theatre organization, is debuting their hilarious rendition of The Pirates of Penzance. This show is packed full of comical moments that will have audiences laughing throughout the two act performance.