Northwest Arkansas Democrat-Gazette
HELPFUL HINTS
DEAR READERS: In the market for a used vehicle? It’s smart to do your homework. Learn everything you can about the make and model of the car you’re interested in, of course, but there’s something else you should check when you find a car you like: the VIN.
“VIN” is “vehicle identification number,” 17 characters that can give you a wealth of information, like whether the car has been totaled in an accident or natural disaster (like a flood), or if it’s been reported stolen.
Unscrupulous people can refurbish cars that have been totaled and resell them. This is illegal, because it is not safe. And stolen vehicles, of course, cannot be resold.
The National Insurance Crime Bureau offers a free VIN check service at NICB. org. You also can call (800) 835-6422. This is one way to protect yourself and be a responsible consumer.
DEAR HELOISE: Regarding the hint in February about where to hold the steering wheel when driving, the 10 o’clock and 2 o’clock hand position versus the 9 o’clock and 3 o’clock one is very confusing to current young student drivers. They have spent their entire lives looking at digital clocks!
— Diane E., Springfield, Ill.
DEAR HELOISE: I use what I consider the best and easiest method for stopping hiccups. I got this from a teacher when I was a sophomore in high school in 1950, and it has been successful for me ever since.
I try to focus on something while taking deep, slow breaths. Usually three or fewer breaths and the hiccups have disappeared!
— Lee D., Watertown, Wis.
DEAR HELOISE: I enjoy your column. I’ve not been able to find house slippers because I wear a 9 Slim, or AAA, and no one makes these anymore, just Narrow, Medium or Wide.
I also need to have the left heel built up, which complicates my problem! I hope you or a reader might know of a resource.— Marilyn B., Texas
DEAR READER: Marilyn, so sorry for your struggle. Contact a shoe-repair business. They should provide you with guidance, and they may know of specialty retailers who will guarantee you a good fit for your house slippers. Readers, any other hints for Marilyn?