Dear Readers: It's August, it's hot, and electric bills are high. Is there a solution both to staying cool and saving money? Yes, there is - it's the ceiling fan.
Did you know that the direction that a ceiling fan's blades rotate can make a difference? Leading manufacturers of ceiling fans tell us that in the summertime, the ceiling fan blades should rotate COUNTERCLOCK-WISE as you look up at it. You should be able to feel a light and cool breeze when you stand under the ceiling fan.
The ceiling fan won't lower the temperature in the room significantly, but it will FEEL cooler. Look for a switch on the motor, right below the fan blades. - Heloise
Pet Pal
Dear Readers: Meet Lucky. Frances R. in Mt. Angel, Oregon, took in Lucky as a kitten, and says he is a great mouser. He's also quite at home in her bathroom sink, as his picture indicates!
To see Lucky and our other Pet Pals, visit Heloise.com and click on "Pet of the Week." Do you have a funny, frisky and furry friend you'd like to share? Email a picture and description to HeloiseHeloise.com. - Heloise
How Does Your Heel Feel?
Dear Heloise: I've found that a wider shoe heel is more comfortable for me. My weight is distributed over a broader area, so I feel more sure-footed and I have less pain in my feet and ankles. - Helen in Texas
Helen, how right you are! A wider heel offers more stability, support and comfort. - Heloise
Pennies Pasta
Dear Heloise: My lab takes meds for joints, and those treats that hold pills can get costly. After making penne pasta one night, I put each pill inside the pasta and now use it for pennies a day. She loves taking her pills! - Gale B., via email
Lost Dog Helper
Dear Heloise: I carry a leash and collar in my car. If I come across a lost dog, I may be able to help it a little more easily. I've had this happen more than once and have always been glad the leash was there.
I read your column in the Statesman Journal in Salem, OR. I hope this helps some doggies! - Karen R., via email
Send a money-saving or timesaving hint to Heloise, P.O. Box 795001, San Antonio, TX 78279-5001, or you can fax it to 1-210-HELOISE or email it to HeloiseHeloise.com.
King Features Syndicate