Strong friend needs support, too sometimes

DEAR HARRIETTE: I always feel pressure to be the “strong one” in my friend group. I’m the one everyone turns to when they’re falling apart; I’m a level-headed, reliable friend who gives advice, calms tensions and somehow always knows what to say.

Pollen counts are highest in decades

Dear Doctors: I have hay fever, but usually it’s not that bad. This year, however, it has been awful. I’m plugged up, my eyes are itchy and by the end of the day, I have a headache.We live near Atlanta, and a lot of people here are miserable. Over-the-counter meds aren’t helping.

Political conversations can cause discomfort

DEAR HARRIETTE: As we all know, there’s a lot of controversy happening in the world lately, which often makes for heated discussions. The other day, a few neighbors and I were in the common room of our building, talking about some of the maintenance issues we’ve experienced in the building.

We always assume there will be another time

My parents’ neighbor Rod told them, “I’m going to take the pontoon out tonight, and you’re invited to join me.” It was a nice night – not too warm, with very little wind.

How does Trump make his decisions?

Can Donald Trump be trusted? Can we rely on his judgment in a crisis? Those core questions have been raised by the president’s decision to reverse his campaign pledges and attack Iran’s nuclear infrastructure.Much remains unknown and uncertain. How badly has Iran’s nuclear capacity been crippled?

CLINTON’S HISTORY 10, 20, 30 AND 40 YEARS AGO

30 YEARS AGOThe Clinton Boys’ Basketball Camp of Clinton High head boys’ basketball coach Steve Henson concluded with the campers winning trophies in the passing, shooting and dribbling competitions.Winners included Grant Phillips, Clay Almquist, Londan Davis, Chase Henson, Cory Randolph, Matt...

Stem cells researched to help with diabetes

Dear Doctors: I have Type 1 diabetes. I try to stay healthy and keep my blood sugar under control, but it feels like a fight every day. I read there’s a study using stem cells for a cure.Are there any updates?

Spouse wants to rekindle the romance

DEAR HARRIETTE: I have some friends who recently celebrated a big anniversary. They went all out for each other, hosting a renewal of vows and everything, but just for the two of them. I thought this was so sweet. Meanwhile, my spouse and I barely said happy anniversary to each other this year.

TODAY IN HISTORY

In 1870, the U.S.Congress recognized Christmas as a federal holiday.In 1945, the United Nations charter was signed by 50 nations. In 1963, John F.Kennedy gave a speech while visiting West Berlin, declaring “Ich bin ein Berliner” (“I am a Berliner”).

DO JUST ONE THING

• It’s time to stop buying tennis balls to play fetch with your dog.