AVOIDING THE JORO SPIDER
Dear Heloise: I’ve been reading about this new visitor to America -- the Joro spider. Pictures of it show this long-legged creature that can apparently fly on currents of air. It can bite, but I don’t know if it’s poisonous.
I’m deathly afraid of bugs, particularly spiders. The sight of one just terrifies me. What can be done to avoid or kill a Joro spider? -- June B., Henderson, North Carolina
June, the Joro spider is a very timid creature that is not native to America. They would rather run from us than bite us. As far as anyone knows, their bite is not deadly but it can cause skin irritation in some people.
If, however, you feel unwell after being bitten, seek medical attention immediately. Although this large spider was first spotted in Georgia, it’s been steadily making its way up the east coast.
Their webs are large, with some reaching 6 or even 10 feet across, and they’ll eat anything that gets caught their web. As for killing the Joro spider, there are sprays available, but you might live your whole life and never see one. The first thing they want to do is hide away from humans. -- Heloise
REVAMPING BLOUSES
Dear Heloise: I had several plain blouses that were in excellent condition, but I was growing tired of wearing them as they were. Finally, I went to a fabric store, bought some beautiful lace, and sewed it around the edge of the collar and cuffs. I also changed out the buttons for small pearl ones.
On another blouse, I used an iron-on applique of a few daisies that went on a pocket. I got new blouses at very little expense! -- Paula D., Fairborn, Ohio
FLATTERING CLOTHING
Dear Heloise: I often have to help women select clothing that flatters their figures. As a style consultant, I have a few hints that can help women look slimmer and taller:
- If you are a little overweight, wear the same color for your top and bottom. If you need to wear a belt, it should match the color that you’re wearing. If you don’t have a belt that is the same color of your outfit, try a darker color. Remember, a belt can enhance an outfit, or it can cut you off visually and make you look heavier. Use a slim belt rather than a wide one.
- Never wear an ankle strap on your shoes. It will only make your legs look heavier.
- You don’t need to wear black or navy blue all the time. Go ahead and wear colors that you like and make you happy.
- Always wear good foundation garments.
- Don’t wear clothing that’s too tight. It will show everything that you want to hide. And don’t wear clothing that’s oversized. Select items that fit well. Remember, size is just a number.
- Add a little sparkle to your face with earrings. A nice gold or silver pair of earrings can dress up an outfit and draw attention to your features. -- Dora L., in New York
SAVING GASOLINE MONEY
Dear Heloise: Drivers can save 10% to 20% on their gas bill! The optimal speed for a car’s best gas mileage is 60 mph. For every 5 miles above 60 mph, your vehicle uses a whopping 10% more in gasoline. So, if gas costs $3.50 and you are traveling at 70 mph, it is costing you an added 70 cents per gallon, to the tune of $4.20 per gallon! -- D., in Ohio
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