HELPFUL HINTS
DEAR READERS: Today’s Sound Off is about calling service people:
DEAR HELOISE: I called for tech support at a computer company and got the worst service I’ve ever had. Unfortunately, this isn’t the first time. The background noise was so loud, with people laughing and shouting, that I couldn’t hear the man who was talking. When I said I couldn’t hear him he hung up on me. — Sarah J., Hampton, Va. DEAR SARAH: This is a common complaint. If the phone agent is not being helpful, I say “goodbye” and call back to get another agent. Readers, what’s your “call” on this dilemma?
DEAR HELOISE: I think I must live in the mosquito capital of America. I can’t set foot outside the door without being bitten several times. Do you have a recipe to kill these pesky critters?
— Belinda F., Texas DEAR BELINDA: I sure do! Give this simple hint a try: 1 cup hot water ¼ cup brown sugar 1 2-liter bottle 1 tablespoon active yeast Cut the bottle in half. Mix the brown sugar with the hot water and cool. When the mixture is cooled, pour it into the bottom half of the bottle.
Add the yeast — no need to mix. Place the funnel part of the bottle upside down into the bottom half of the bottle and tape them together. Leave the top uncovered.
Change the solution every week or so, or when you see lots of dead mosquitoes in the liquid.
P.S. The amounts are just an estimate.
DEAR HELOISE: I recently went to a wedding and did not know what to get the couple, who have everything after living together. I gave them an envelope with cash. After the wedding, the mother of the bride hinted that she didn’t think I’d given them enough to cover the expense of my dinner. I’m retired, my income is limited, and I thought I gave the couple a substantial amount. What is the correct amount to give at a wedding?
— Lynnette G., New London, Conn. DEAR LYNNETTE: In the old days, many thought a cash gift or the price of the gift should cover your food and drink. That has changed over time. Give what you can afford, and don’t feel guilty. Guests are invited to help the happy couple celebrate the wedding, not to pay for it.
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.com