Columns

Glass-Top Stove

Dear Heloise: How do I clean burn marks off my glass-top stove? — Andrea N., Clarinda, Iowa Andrea, when the top has cooled off, wipe down the surface with a sponge and mild soapy water. Wipe dry. Then make a paste of baking soda and water and, in a circular motion, start to clean the burn spot. It will take some effort, but you can get the marks off your stove. Some people will take a razor blade to carefully scrape the stubborn areas, but if you use a razor blade, be extra careful not to scratch your stovetop. — Heloise HELOISE’S PEKING POTATOES Dear Heloise: Your mother ...

Confession to Decades-Old Infidelity Devastates Wife

DEAR ABBY: Two years ago, my husband of 50 years confessed that 46 years ago, shortly after our son was born, he had a one-night stand with a total stranger he gave a ride to. She offered sex to him, and they went to a hotel for the brief encounter. He said he had totally forgotten about it until recently. He said he was very upset when he remembered, to the point that he felt sick. He decided to tell me because he didn’t want any secrets between us, and he asked me to forgive him. I forgave him, but I have been devastated ever since. He was a virgin when we married, and he has been ...

Moving Tips

Dear Readers: During the pandemic, lots of people are moving because interest rates are low — upsizing, downsizing, you name it. So much work is involved in a move. Checklists are available online to keep things moving smoothly. Here are some things to think about. First off, shutting off and transferring utilities: water, gas, internet, trash pickup, electricity, cable tv and landline phone (if you still have these). Be sure to change your address with these people: post office, any subscriptions, the bank, cell phone provider, boss, car, home and health insurance. Other things ...

Holidays This Year Inspire Thinking Outside the Gift Box

DEAR ABBY: With the holidays fast approaching, I’m starting to think about shopping. Honestly, I’m tired of shopping for adults who don’t need anything. Finding gifts for them becomes more daunting each year. I think gift cards and direct money are tacky Christmas presents. Do you think it would be odd to ask my adult children and other family members to select a charity they would like me to donate to instead of buying them gifts that just take up more room? This year has been hard on many people financially, but most of my family members are lucky enough to still be working ...

Other Types Of Energy

Today’s Sound Off is about solar energy. Dear Heloise: There is so much more that could be done to promote solar and wind energy. After an initial investment in equipment, solar energy could be virtually free. In fact, there are companies that are installing solar roof tiles. We, as the American public, need to get behind a grassroots movement to encourage our government to help fund research on the other types of energy sources available. There is no way we can stay ahead of future energy problems unless we start now to invest in developing alternative energy sources. I’d rather ...

Girlfriend Left on Sideline at Small Family Wedding

DEAR ABBY: My boyfriend of five years calls me his “partner.” I care about his family, and they are happy we are together. His daughter had a small wedding with just a few family members and the wedding party. I sat alone in our room for hours while they took pre-wedding photos. Not a problem. But when no voices were heard, I looked out, and everyone was gone! I texted my partner asking where everyone was. I had heard him walk by our room several times earlier, but he didn’t respond. Should I have chased after him, asking to be included? Before and after the ceremony, the ...