Dear Heloise: I thought you should know that I just bought a new range with a convection oven (an LG), and the manual specifically cautions not to put foil in the bottom for spills, as it will interfere with the heating and damage the surface. Thank you for all your great advice! — Dick Campbell, Hewitt, Texas

Dick, I’m happy to help! Readers, make sure to check the manual that comes with your appliance and follow the recommendations before using it. — Heloise

PAPER CLIP

BOOKMARK

Dear Heloise: I use a paper clip to mark my place while reading. It never falls off or out, and it doesn’t damage the book. — B.B., via email

ALTERNATIVE

COFFEE MAKER

Dear Heloise: I read your hint about clean coffeepots making the “best coffee,” and I would like to suggest an alternative. I have been using a one-cup system for some time and find it very useful. I can make my own custom blend using available accessories and store-bought products as well. You should consider this alternative product some time. Thanks for all of your hints over the years! — John D. Mitchell, via email

CINEMATIC DRIVERS

Dear Heloise: I read a hint in a recent column about dangerous driving, and I wanted to add that it annoys me when I watch a movie or a TV show where the driver turns to talk to his passenger. Sometimes this lasts for quite a while, and the driver is not watching the road. Also, many times in the car, they are not wearing seat belts. — C. Leheny, via email

YARD SALE HINTS

Dear Heloise: This is in response to the recent letter about yard sales. If you don’t have an assistant or a cashbox, try a fanny pack (turned around to the front, of course!) and keep all of your cash and coins there. Then you can circulate the sale and help out customers.

If you’re selling clothing, prop up a full-length mirror against a tree or in another shady location for people to do a quick try-on. Thanks for all that you do! — Patty, in Virginia