Dear Heloise: Over time, my family and I have collected a number of packets containing ketchup, mustard, mayo and other sauces. They’re all in the refrigerator, but some are about 1 or 2 years old. Some don’t have any dates on them at all. I don’t know if these are still good enough to ...

Dear Annie: “Eighty-One Years Wise,” who wrote in about feeling uncomfortable around poorly behaved children, was spot on, but I’ve also been known to pause by a table in a restaurant where a family of total strangers are enjoying a meal to compliment the children and parents on ...

Dear Heloise: I recently read a letter in The Advocate from one of your readers about cleaning black shoe scuffs off of a floor. Your reader recommended using a tennis ball and some elbow grease. In the air force, we used toothpaste and a toothbrush. Works great! --Bonnie, Prairieville, ...

Dear Dr. Roach:. I have neuropathy in my left foot. It feels very hot on the bottom. My neurologist thinks it is from my sugar level, but I got my A1C down from 6.2% to 5.6% and do not have neuropathy in my right foot. A friend said that he has had some relief with red light treatment, but he ...

The Independent calendar lists upcoming meetings, facility hours and events in and around Marshall. To have your group’s events listed, email the information to news@marshallindependent.com or submit the information to our virtual newsroom. Today AA (Book study), 8 a.m., Open Door Church, ...

Dear Readers: If your children have T-shirts that they have outgrown or do not want to wear anymore, don’t toss them out. They offer memories of fun times that your family has had, whether they’re from a trip, a sports event or even a concert. Here’s how to repurpose them: Have your ...