DEAR READERS: If you are planning on doing any digging on your property, you could encounter buried lines for power, water, sewer, gas or cable communications.
Striking these lines can interrupt service, but it can also cause injury or result in expensive repairs.
How can you help prevent this? Call 811 before you dig. The phone representative will ask information about your plans to dig, and will let the correct utility companies know. Also dial 811 if you have struck a power or other line. They will advise you how to proceed.
DEAR READERS: Do you wonder what food banks need? Here is a list:
• Nuts and healthy snacks like granola
• Canned soups, stews and chili
• Peanut butter
• Canned meats (salmon, chicken, tuna)
• Whole-grain cereals
• Foods with pop-top lids
What's not a good donation? Anything in a glass jar, candy, sugary drinks and bulk packages of staples like rice, noodles and flour. Call the food bank in your city for more information.
DEAR HELOISE: I just read the hint in your column about sitting in the front row of the classroom. One of my college professors admitted that the middle four seats on the front row are called (by professors) the "A" section.
People who choose those seats are usually highly motivated and are there to learn.
-- Linda, via email
DEAR HELOISE: A previous reader suggested using your smartphone to assist in reading prescription bottles.
Many pharmacies offer a "large label" option. Ask your pharmacist if this option is available for your scripts. If available, it's as simple as the pharmacist checking a box on your profile.
-- John L., via email
DEAR HELOISE: I have always hated the idea that we look at an expensive greeting card once and throw it away.
My remedy: I buy a funny book that complements the person or theme and write a note, quote or Bible verse in the front and sign it.
Libraries, garage sales, thrift stores and online are great suppliers of gently used books for the budget-minded. I wrap my card/book in with the present so it does not get lost.
-- A Reader, via email
Send a money- or time-saving hint to Heloise, P.O. Box 795001, San Antonio, Texas 78279-5000; fax to (210) 435-6473; or email
Heloise@Heloise.com
Style on 10/23/2018