In some cities, a new way to scoot about town

Heloise
Heloise

Dear Readers: Dockless electric scooters are a new, environmentally safe, cheap and convenient method to quickly get around town, but there are concerns. Laws vary from city to city; everyone's safety is paramount. Here are a few things to know about dockless scooters:

There's an app for them. Riders download the app and scan a code to get started.

Helmets, pads and eye protection aren't required but are strongly encouraged.

Riders must ride with both feet on the scooter and ride in the bike lane, not on the sidewalk.

Riders should leave their scooters by a bike rack, if available.

Riders may have to have a valid driver's license.

Check your city's official website for more information and regulations. There's typically a small initial fee, then a per-hour charge. - Heloise

 

Pet Pal

Dear Readers: Meet Melania and dachshund Duke. Cheryl G. in San Antonio just adopted Melania, a 4-month-old, 5-pound half piebald dachshund and half Chihuahua, from a dachshund rescue group after Melania's previous owner passed.

These two are so cute, and they've quickly bonded. Melania has one ear that folds over and one that stands up - maybe to listen to Duke?

To see Melania and Duke, visit Heloise.com and click on "Pet of the Week." Do you have funny and furry friends? Lots of times, two are better than one! Share your pictures and stories at HeloiseHeloise.com. - Heloise

 

Eggshell Solution

Dear Heloise: My wife and I differ on how one should dispose of eggshells. She says that you should not put the shells in the disposal. I disagree and feel that you can.

I heard some time back that you can sharpen the blades of the disposal by grinding clamshells or oyster shells in it. An eggshell should be no problem. Who's right? - Pete, via email

Pete, let's take a crack at settling this argument. The eggshell has a fibrous lining that can wrap itself around the blades of the disposal. Eggshells should go in the compost pile and not in the garbage disposal. If you don't compost, then the trash is the best place for eggshells.

As for sharpening the blades, every so often, freeze vinegar into cubes and toss a handful of them down the running disposal. Vinegar is a workhorse all over the house - it's cheap, readily available and safe. I've compiled a collection of my favorite vinegar hints in a handy pamphlet. Would you like to receive one? It's easy! Visit Heloise.com to order, or send a stamped (70 cents), self-addressed, long envelope, along with $5, to: Heloise/Vinegar, P.O. Box 795001, San Antonio, TX 78279-5001. A few orange peels also can freshen the disposal. - Heloise

 

Hands Off

Dear Heloise: After spending six hours on a jet, I feel compelled to write. When flying, please don't grab the seat in front of you to assist in standing up.

Stand using your armrests for support. Also, your child kicking the seat in front of them is a no-no. - Pat

 

King Features Syndicate

Upcoming Events