SHREVEPORT, La. — After a long day at school, many children are ready for a snack.Registered dietitian and KTBS contributor Courtney Butts says parents don't have to eliminate their children's favorite foods to create a more balanced option.Instead, Butts recommends adding nutritious foods that provide protein, healthy fats, and additional nutrients to help keep kids satisfied until mealtime.“The goal isn't to make every snack perfect,” Butts said. “It's to think about what you can add to the foods that your child already enjoys.”For sweet snacks like Oreos or M&M's, Butts suggests pairing them with Greek yogurt for added protein and healthy fat. Savory snacks can also be balanced with simple additions, such as cheese, fruit, hummus, or yogurt. Examples include pairing Doritos with cheese and grapes, Cheez-Its with string cheese and berries, or pretzels with hummus and fruit.Butts also shared a make-ahead recipe for banana chocolate chip muffins made with a protein pancake or muffin mix, banana, egg, milk, butter, and mini chocolate chips. The muffins can be prepared in advance and paired with milk or Greek yogurt for an easy after-school snack.She says the key is focusing on what can be added to make snacks more filling and nutritious while still including foods children enjoy.

SHREVEPORT, La. — As families continue to manage high energy costs, SWEPCO reminds customers about a federal assistance program that may help eligible households pay their utility bills.The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program, commonly known as LIHEAP, is designed to help income-qualified families offset home energy expenses.“LIHEAP is a federal program. It stands for Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program,” a SWEPCO representative said. “It's just one of the ways that SWEPCO wants to make sure our customers know that we're here to help and help them access programs that can help them with their bills.”Customers can learn more and find application information by visiting swepco.com/billhelp. The website provides links to program details for Arkansas, Louisiana and Texas residents.Officials note that LIHEAP is funded through federal grants and is available on a first-come, first-served basis while funding remains available. Eligibility is based on income, and application periods may vary by state.Customers who believe they may qualify are encouraged to apply as soon as possible.

SHREVEPORT, La. — Caddo Parish Animal Services is encouraging families to consider adoption as the shelter prepares for its annual Clear the Shelters event.During this week's Paws to Care segment, shelter representative Kim Freeman introduced Tucker and Tuxie, two playful 3½-month-old kittens looking for their forever homes. The pair are part of a litter of four kittens that were brought to the shelter after being found as strays.“These two are already fully vetted and ready to go,” Freeman said.The shelter currently has a large number of dogs, cats, and young animals available for adoption and hopes the upcoming event will help connect more pets with loving families.Clear the Shelters will take place Saturday from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Caddo Parish Animal Services. Adoption fees will be waived during the event, giving prospective pet owners an opportunity to adopt at no cost.Freeman also reminded pet owners to take precautions during the summer heat by providing plenty of shade and water for outdoor animals and never leaving pets unattended in vehicles.Shelter staff encourage families interested in adoption to bring all household members, including current pets, for meet-and-greets to help ensure a good fit.