Heloise, syndicated columnist

Dear Heloise: I understand that some people prefer reading an old-fashioned newspaper, but there are many advantages to receiving one’s newspaper electronically. Here are the reasons why I prefer this digital version:

I’m visually impaired, but with my tablet, I can enlarge the type to a size that I can easily read. I don’t have to walk down my long, steep driveway — sometimes in the dark, rain, snow or bitter cold — to see if the paper has been delivered to the newspaper box. And if it hasn’t, then I must make the unpleasant trip again!

When I wake up, the electronic version is already there for me to enjoy with my cup of coffee. If there is an interesting article that I want to share, it’s easy to forward it electronically to someone who may not subscribe to the newspaper in any form. And it saves trees!

Thank you, Heloise, for the informative and enjoyable hints that you share! — J.J.T., via email

DON’T ENGAGE WITH UNKNOWN CALLERS

Dear Heloise: I saw a reader’s advice to answer unknown calls and stay silent before deciding to engage. Please don’t do this. Answering unknown calls, even silently, signals to automated systems that your number is active. Answering increases the likelihood of receiving more spam calls. Let your voicemail do the screening for you and take control of who can reach you. — A Reader, via email

CLEANING CRUSTY PANS

Dear Heloise: I love to cook and bake, but scrubbing encrusted pans can be a real chore. Burned-on bits and baked-on grease don’t always come off easily. So, I’ve found a simple method that works well for me.

First, I wipe the pan with a paper towel to remove excess grease or crumbs. Then I fill it with hot or warm water and add a few drops of grease-cutting dish soap. I place a laundry fabric softener sheet in the water and let the pan soak for a couple of hours (or even overnight).

By the time I come back, the stuck-on food has softened and wipes away much more easily. I’ve used this trick for years with great results. — Kathy Twiford, in Douglas, Wyoming

AIRPLANE CONSIDERATIONS

Dear Heloise: In regard to the person who said in a recent column that a child kicking the seat in from of them is a no-no, I agree 100%. In regard to not grabbing the seat in front of you to assist you with standing up, I am 81 years old, and pushing on my armrests for support is not sufficient.

I find that the top of the seat in front of me has a backward slant that my body must accommodate. This means that balance, which is already an issue for me, is a little more challenging than usual. Please have some consideration for those who need this boost to actually get to a standing position. It doesn’t happen too frequently on a single flight, so please be understanding. — Millie S., Midlothian, Virginia

BOILING WATER FOR WEEDS

Dear Heloise: I’ve found an easy way to deal with weeds growing in the cracks of my driveway and sidewalk. Instead of using bleach or vinegar, I pour boiling water directly onto the weeds. The heat destroys the plant cells, and within a day or two, they wilt and dry up.

It doesn’t cost a thing, and I don’t have to worry about chemicals around my pets or plants nearby. For stubborn weeds, I may repeat the process, but it usually works the first time. It’s a quick fix by using something that I already have in my kitchen. — Kathleen, in San Clemente, California

EDITOR’S NOTE: Send a great hint to Heloise@Heloise.com.