HELPFUL HINTS

DEAR READER: Here is this week’s Sound Off, regarding extra buttons on clothing:

“Most men’s garments have extra buttons attached in an inconspicuous place on the garment, whereas most women’s garments have extra buttons attached with a plastic string that is removed when the garment is worn. Wouldn’t it be nice if women’s clothing had extra buttons placed where they could easily be found if they needed replacing?” - A Reader in Florida

DEAR READER: You’re right. Some women’s shirts do have an extra button attached, usually on an inseam, but those little envelopes with the extra buttons can be a bother to keep up with.

DEAR HELOISE: I read in your column about service animals and was wondering if you might be able to clarify. You said that according to the Americans With Disabilities Act, store personnel may ask only two questions, and that a medical card or letter is not required. I have a friend who is legally blind, and I often drive her and her service dog to appointments, shopping, etc. She carries a card that store personnel sometimes ask for, which states that she indeed has an authentic service dog. I was just wondering if it is possible that the laws are different in different states?

• N.C., Colorado

DEAR READER: According to the Americans With Disabilities Act, employees may not ask for certification or identification. While most service animals wear a special harness, leash or vest that shows they are “working,” and may have certification or identification cards, they don’t need such.

Some state laws (not all) about service animals seem to follow the ADA requirements. But if you or my other readers have questions on your state’s laws about service animals, contact the state’s attorney general.

DEAR HELOISE: I write a lot of letters to friends. I cut one of the sample perfume pages from magazines and put it in with the letter. Gives a pleasant smell when they open the envelope.

• Grace D., Staten Island, N.Y.

DEAR HELOISE: Loved your idea about suspenders on sheets. I use women’s stocking garters on each corner (put on the sheet before you pull over the bed corner).

• J.S. in Leesburg, Fla.

Send a money- or time-saving hint to Heloise, P.O. Box 795000, San Antonio, Texas 78279-5000; fax to (210) 435-6473; or email Heloise@Heloise.co