Minnesotans seek assistance from U.S. government agencies for a variety of reasons — whether it’s to get an answer about Social Security, access to veterans benefits, or assistance with renewing a passport. But, too often, bureaucratic red tape gets in the way. That’s why our state ...

This winter I found a way to at least slightly mitigate inflation and increased costs of living. I make myself two or three vegetarian meals a week. It saves money. Food is a big item in my budget, and meat products are a major part of my grocery bill. I don’t have any moral issues about ...

Dear Annie: I am 70 years old and blessed with two well-settled and caring grown children (one son and one daughter), who have each been blessed with two kids of their own, making me a grandma of 4 under 4; for which I’m very excited and grateful. Every day of my life, it gives me positive ...

Dear Heloise: Bringing food and items to a family is a nice thing to do after the loss of a loved one. But my fabulous father-in-law recently did something that, I think, sets a great precedent. His next-door neighbor lost someone, so my father-in-law took his lawn mower over and mowed their ...

Dear Heloise: Sometimes we forget some of the kitchen hints we’ve learned over the years. Here are a few reminders: -- You can substitute beer for wine as the liquid in stews or soups, and you’ll discover a nice, rich sauce. But only use as much beer as the recipe calls for, and don’t ...

Dear Annie: When I was 6 years old, my father left my mother for another woman who was 14 years his junior. She had actually been his secretary and had been with him for a couple of years before the divorce. My dad went so far as to even get an apartment for her in the city. She was 16 at the ...