(NC)—The holiday season is the time of year filled with entertaining, parties and social gatherings. Whether planning a small, intimate gathering or a large family affair, it is often the host's attention to detail that impresses guests the most. Creating a festive atmosphere, planning ahead and preparing delicious dishes will ensure guests have a memorable experience. This holiday season, follow these simple tips, guaranteed to delight visitors and simplify holiday entertaining.

Create Atmosphere

• Limit the size of the gathering, consider several intimate parties rather than a large open house

• Add distinctive touches that guests will remember. Creative centre pieces, colourful drinks, special serving dishes and bright napkins will al Holiday Entertaining 101 Recipe

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FOCUS ON FIBER: How Much is Enough?

by Monique N. Gilbert, B.Sc.

The average American only gets about half the amount of fiber they need everyday for their body to function optimally. According to the American Heart Association (AHA), fiber helps lower cholesterol and is important for the health of our digestive system. Both the AHA and the National Cancer Institute recommend that we consume 25 to 30 grams of fiber daily.

Dietary fiber is a transparent solid complex carbohydrate that is the main part of the cell walls of plants. It has two forms: soluble and insoluble. Soluble fiber may help lower blood cholesterol and reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke. Insoluble fiber provides the bulk needed for proper functioning of the stomach and intestines. It promotes healthy intestinal a FOCUS ON FIBER: How Much is Enough? Recipe

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Wonderful Holiday Recipe Ideas

by Dawn Connors

The Holiday Season is upon us and soon we will be frantically searching for yummy recipes to serve our family and friends. Many of the leading food manufacturers have spent 1000's of hours testing and perfecting recipes for you to enjoy.

The recipes below are a few of my favorites and may become yours too!

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Basic Bread Stuffing 1 cup butter or margarine 1/2 cup onion, chopped 1 1/2 cups celery, chopped 12 cups bread cubes, white and whole-wheat bread 2 tbsp. McCormick® Parsley Flakes 1 tbsp. McCormick® Bon Appetit Seasoning 1 1/2 tsp. McCormick® Poultry Seasoning 1/2 tsp. McCormick® Ground Black Pepper 1/2 cup chicken broth

1. Melt butter in large skillet Wonderful Holiday Recipe Ideas Recipe

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