A memorial or a mess? Local reader has an idea

Dear Readers: Today’s Sound Off is about memorials: “Dear Heloise: My pet peeve is litter. People leave flowers, candles in glass containers, stuffed animals and other items in a place where someone died. The thought might be good, but tell that to the person who has to clean up that mess. These piles of trash can be found along highways, on sidewalks or on private property. Instead of leaving behind some pile of mementos, why not make a donation to a charity in the name of the deceased? It seems to me that this is a far better way to honor the person — with a donation that will go toward doing something positive. If the person loved animals, for example, then make a donation to an animal charity, or if he or she had heart problems, make a donation to the American Heart Association.” — Richard T., Miamisburg, Ohio

Richard, that’s an excellent idea. All charities need financial help, and it’s a lovely way to honor someone we’ve lost. — Heloise

Fast facts

Dear Readers: Most of us have hair conditioner at home, and here are some additional uses for it besides on our hair:

Loosen a tightfitting ring.

Use it to shave your legs.

Use on your dog after its bath to keep the coat smooth and fresh-smelling.

Add a little to the final rinse of hand-washed lingerie. — Heloise

Everything is just ‘peachy’

Dear Heloise: My husband loves fried peach pies. However, I have been unable to find dried peaches in any grocery store in our area for several years now. Do you know why they are unavailable? — Mary Helen F., Hooks, Texas

Mary Helen, try a specialty store, such as a health-food store, or if you search the internet, you will find places that sell dried peaches. Just type in “dried peaches,” and you’ll find various sources that will sell you dried fruit of any kind. — Heloise

Flat coffee filters

Dear Heloise: We use a basket-type coffee filter, and the last ones in a package tend to get flat. I discovered that if you turn them upside down and use the bottom ones first, that problem is fixed! — Cindy H. in Ohio

Send a money-saving or timesaving hint to Heloise, P.O. Box 795000, San Antonio, TX 78279-5000, or you can fax it to 1-210-HELOISE or email it to Heloise@Heloise. com. I can’t answer your letter personally but will use the best hints received in my column.