HELPFUL HINTS

DEAR READERS: While there are still several weeks of summer left, let’s look at a few end-of-season financial fixes:

Summer travel expenses can add up quickly. Meals on the go, touristy souvenirs, hotel upgrades and day trips can wring out the wallet. Set an amount that you’re willing to spend, and stick to it.

After vacation? It’s backto-school time! Many states offer a tax-free weekend in the first part of August — waived sales tax on most clothing, school necessities and other items. This can be an almost 10 percent savings, depending on your state’s sales tax.

Arkansas’ tax free weekend starts at 12:01 a.m. Saturday (Aug. 4) and ends at 11:59 p.m. Sunday (Aug. 5). For a list of tax-free items, go to https:// tinyurl.com/ybmod4ub.

Enjoy the rest of the summer, and let’s not “fall” into debt!

DEAR HELOISE: I’m a teacher, and I’d like to take a moment to ask all parents to start getting the kids thinking about school again!

Take several minutes a day to read, read, read to young kids! Have slightly older kids read to you, and practice simple math problems back and forth.

Take turns calling out simple math problems quickly: “2+4?” “2x4?” “4/2?” This, from my work with my kids, usually ends in fits of laughter, but it’s effective!

As for even older students, talk with high school kids about current events, writing and history. — Janine in Texas

DEAR HELOISE: Before running the sweeper through the kitchen, I sweep the crumbs from behind the toaster, microwave, , etc., onto the floor.

— Carol Y., via email

DEAR HELOISE: After I have ordered from the menu at a sit-down restaurant, I go to the restroom and wash my hands, or I use hand sanitizer. The menu can be covered with germs. I never use an ink pen that is handed to me with a clipboard with forms. I use my own ink pen. A communal pen can be germ-laden.

— Mary, via email

DEAR HELOISE: I find address labels a handy way to label books, compact discs and DVDs that I am lending out to friends.

I also stick labels on the back of my business cards so I can easily give contact info to friends at a class reunion.

— Tom D., California