Lifestyle

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.

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This week’s cat of the week is Makayla, the 3 year old domestic shorthair that has captured the hearts of many at Northern Oklahoma Humane Society. Makayla has been at NOKHS since the middle of August and is waiting for her chance at a forever home. Makayla stood out because of her loving personality, on top of her gorgeous markings. Unlike some at NOKHS, Makayla has never met a stranger and is the kind of cat that is pressing her face up against the kennel trying to get your attention. Makayla is truly the perfect cat. She loves people and would never turn down a good love session or a treat, in fact, the only time this little lady shows her frustrations is when you stop petting her. Unfortunately, Makayla has been diagnosed as FIV+, which is an immunodeficiency virus. Cats infected with this can have symptoms of recurrent illnesses such as runny nose or sneezing, inflammations of the eyes or skin, and more. There is no true cure for FIV and it will be something that Makayla will have for the rest of her life. Regardless of her condition, Makayla refuses to let it get her down and she needs a family and a home. Because of her condition, it is safer if Makayla is an only cat to minimize the risk of the virus spreading. Makayla is so incredibly sweet and loving. Her greatest wish is to have a family she can love and be loved by.

I’ve written this weekly column for more than 30 years, starting when I was a reporter for the State Journal-Register, a daily newspaper in Springfield, Illinois. At that time, Copley Newspapers picked it up and syndicated it. When Copley was sold, and eventually the State Journal-Register sold as well, Creators News Service asked me to continue writing it. I was thrilled. I left newspapers to become a full-time dietitian, having gone back to school to get my master’s degree in nutrition and registered dietitian, and I was thrilled to be able to continue writing the column.