Charity ranch's needs changing with the times

Dear Readers: For many years, I’ve written about a wonderful program from St. Jude’s Ranch for Children. The children would take recycled greeting cards and make new cards that were sold in the gift shop as well as online.

Sadly, this program has concluded. Sales have declined, St. Jude’s isn’t able to staff the program and the children are developing different, newer, updated skills at the ranch.

However, there are still ways that you can help; St. Jude’s is always accepting monetary donations. Here’s how your dollars help: a $50 donation will buy a brand-new coat for a child, and $100 will pay for an ice-skating party. A mere $25 will fulfill a wish-list item for a child for a birthday or holiday. Visit stjudesranch.org or call 702-294-7142 to speak to a representative from St. Jude’s Ranch for Children.—Heloise

GENERAL CLEANER

Dear Heloise: I’m looking to save money on household cleaners. Didn’t you have a classic formula for a safe and cheap all-purpose cleaner?—Ron E. in Pennsylvania

Here are the “ingredients”: 1/2 cup household ammonia, 1/2 cup rubbing alcohol and 1 teaspoon dishwashing liquid. Combine them with enough water to make 1 gallon total. This mixture is safe to use on most surfaces, but do wear gloves, and NEVER add bleach or any product containing bleach to this formula.—Heloise