Hints from Heloise

Dear Heloise: When San Antonio welcomed thousands of evacuees from Hurricane Katrina in September, donations were being accepted by the Salvation Army.

We approached with 250 lined, wind-resistant sports jackets. The temperature was 95 degrees, with no relief in sight. We asked, “Please don’t accept the jackets if they won’t be used.” Quite the opposite – the air conditioning in the giant buildings was so cold, they actually had many requests for coats. Those colorful, fashionable garments quickly went out of stock in San Antonio. – Smitty and Dottie, San Antonio

You never know what might be useful! I’d like to take a few lines to compliment and send a big ol’ Texas-size “thank you” to all who helped out in my home city – San Antonio – and across this country. – Heloise