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Other types of energy

Today’s Sound Off is about solar energy.

Dear Heloise: There is so much more that could be done to promote solar and wind energy. After an initial investment in equipment, solar energy could be virtually free. In fact, there are companies that are installing solar roof tiles. We, as the American public, need to get behind a grassroots movement to encourage our government to help fund research on the other types of energy sources available.

There is no way we can stay ahead of future energy problems unless we start now to invest in developing alternate energy sources. I’d rather see my tax dollars spent on energy resource development than on a war with another country. We owe it to our children to give them a world with cleaner air and water. — Sarah J., Erie, Pa.

Sarah, thanks for the reminder. We, my husband and I, put up solar panels over 30 years ago. — Heloise

FAST FACTS

New uses for old metal cigarette cases:

— Store business cards

— Keep loose change

— Keep blotting papers for oily skin

— Store matches, stamps or Post-it notes

CHARITY

Dear Heloise: My mailbox is full everyday with charities soliciting donations. I’m on a fixed income and do not want or need the notecards, address labels, etc., that are sent. I’ve tried writing and requesting that they stop sending requests for money, but to no avail. Now they are sending me checks for $2.50. I send them back. Can you help me? — Mamie F., San Antonio, Texas

Mamie, the Better Business Bureau recommends the following: First, discard all this junk mail. Write or call the charity in question and tell them to remove your name from their mailing list.

If you get anymore appeals for funds, write “Return to Sender” on the envelope in big letters and put that in a mailbox. If you are sent a check, do not sign it. Tear them up and throw them away. Some of the persistent “charities” are scams.

HDL vs LDL

Dear Heloise: I always had trouble remembering which cholesterol was good or bad. A nurse at the hospital told me they call them healthy (HDL) and lousy (LDL). — Alda S., Omaha, Neb.

COLORED SALT

Dear Heloise: Is there any way to color table salt so you can see it being applied? — Harold P., Waco, Texas

Harold, sure is! You’ll need three things: salt, food coloring and a small plastic bag.

1. Put the salt (as much as you want) in the plastic bag.

2. Add about three to six drops of food coloring to the bag (more if you want the salt darker).

3. Press out as much air as you possibly can and then secure the plastic bag closed.

4. Knead the salt and coloring until the color is blended and even. — Heloise

HELOISE

Dear Readers: Have you checked out my website at Heloise.com? You’ll find answers to some of your questions and many interesting subjects to read about and new things to learn. — Heloise

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