Thanksgiving dinner costlier this year

The American Farm Bureau Federation wants you to know that the bounty Americans will be enjoying Thanksgiving begins with hard-working farm and ranch families.

It also notes that the cost of this year’s feast will be a little bit higher than last Thanksgiving but is still a good bargain.

The Farm Bureau’s 23rd annual price survey puts the cost of Thanksgiving meal for 10 at an average of $44.61. That includes, turkey, bread stuffing, sweet potatoes, rolls with butter, peas, cranberries, a relish tray of carrots and celery, plus pumpkin pie with whipped cream, and coffee and milk to drink.

The price is a modest $2.35 higher than last Thanksgiving and includes $19.09 for a 16-pound turkey.

The Farm Bureau’s volunteer shoppers are instructed to look for the best possible prices but to avoid special coupons or deals.