Elephant enthusiast dismayed to receive an ivory gift

Dear Annie: Twenty-five years ago, my husband and I honeymooned in Kenya. We both fell in love with elephants. We discovered that they are one of the most intelligent and kindest animals around. While on safari, we witnessed a baby elephant crying. The entire family went over to comfort her.

Recently, for our 25th anniversary, my husband gave me a beautiful brooch shaped like an elephant. The next day, I went to my jeweler to have the brooch appraised for insurance purposes. The jeweler determined that it’s made of 18-karat gold, diamonds... and ivory. I was shocked. How could my husband buy ivory in the States? I thought ivory was banned.

I immediately called my husband and asked him where he bought this. He said the local pawnshop. Is it still legal to buy ivory?

Elephant Lover Dear Elephant Lover: You’re correct that they’re intelligent creatures. According to California Institute of Technology biologist Atiya Hakeem, elephants have an “unusually large and convoluted hippocampus,” the area of the brain associated with emotion and memory.

Though it’s unfortunate your husband accidentally purchased ivory when trying to commemorate your love for the species, it was an honest mistake. After looking into it, I also was shocked to find out you can legally buy ivory in the States if it’s in an antique piece.

For information about protecting this beautiful species, visit https://www.wcs. org/96-elephants.

Dear Annie: I’ve been suffering from migraines for about 10 years. I’ve tried tips and tricks of every kind. I’ve tried herbal medicines, nonherbal medicines, dietary restrictions, dietary additions — you name it. The list is too long to mention here, but rest assured that it’s exhaustive.

At this point, the real pain is other people. Virtually every time I tell someone about my migraines, the person instantly rattles off a few suggestions.

I know that people mean well, but my patience has spread thin. Now I avoid telling people about my migraines. Unless a migraine sufferer specifically asks for your tips and tricks, save them.

Tired of the Tips

Dear Tired of the Tips: There’s no irritant quite like unsolicited advice. I’m printing your letter for all the wellmeaning would-be advisers.

Send your questions for Annie Lane to dearannie@creators .com.