More clean air

Today’s Sound Off is about public transportation.

DEARHELOISE » After the coronavirus hit and people were staying home, the air quality in many cities got much better. This was directly linked to fewer cars on the road since more people were at home instead of driving to work, school or shopping. This got me thinking that perhaps it’s time our American cities started to seriously consider cleaner transportation options.

If we want clean, breathable air we need clean energy. We need electric cars and better mass-transit systems. Gas-fueled cars trap us in the past. We need to look more to renewable energy sources to help solve our pollution problems.

— George, Austin, Texas

Heloise

Fast facts

New uses for old smartphones: * Use as a backup phone for storing data.

* Load it withmusic and use as a car stereo or GPS device.

* Donate to local causes such as battered women’s shelters.

* Another idea is to donate smartphones for troops overseas. There are organizations that sell themand use the money to buy prepaid phone cards for soldiers.

Hint to remember

DEARHELOISE » My husband and I are both senior citizens and sometimes can’t remember everything, even though it’s on a calendar.

My daughter writes on a card, for each day, what appointments we have and any other important information.

We have a stack on our end table and can easily check to seewhat is going on that day. It has helped us so much. — Marilyn Glessner, Canton, Ohio Jar labels

DEARHELOISE » Need to remove jar labels? Instead of soaking the glass jar, fill it with boiling hotwater, set it in the sink (for safety reasons) and let it cool for 10 minutes. The label will peel off easily without a lot of scraping. Then I make a paste of baking soda andwater to scrub off any remaining residue.

— Janice inWyoming

Mold control

I just read the note fromKathleen in Florida about her mold problem. I live close to the beach in California and also had a mold problem. Not only do I live in an area that frequently has high humidity, my master bedroom and bath have poor circulation. I purchased a dehumidifier (about $100) and am amazed at how muchwater is pulled out. It waswell worth the money. Good luck Kathleen, and thank you Heloise! — Sandy, Dana Point, CA

Septic sense

DEARHELOISE » A hint for those with septic systems. When rinsing dishes, pots, pans, etc. in the sink, I put a good quality paper towel over the drain. It catches the food particles, no matter how small, and will protect your pipes from getting a buildup, clogging and causing major problems. Those on a city sewer can also use this idea and save themselves major plumbing issues. Just throw away the paper towel.