Perspectives

The deadline to register to vote in the Texas Democratic and Republican primary elections is Feb. 5. Voters on March 5 will choose their nominees for president, U.S. Senator, all 38 U.S. House members from Texas, and a number of other state and local offices, from the Texas Supreme Court to district attorneys, sheriffs and county commissioners.

Dear Heloise: I reuse any holiday cards I receive after the season is over. Those colorful or glittery front faces make great gift tags! Here’s what I do: First, I detach the beautiful front face of the card. I usually cut it into strips or squares. As long as there isn’t any writing on the card, you can reuse those “tags” for future gifts! Best regards. -- Priscilla Wigham, via email

Dear Readers: Our dishwashers get a lot of use, and if your dishwasher has an odor, try to find out where the smell is coming from. First, look inside the dishwasher to examine the drain hose and the bottom reservoir for residue or food particles that may be trapped there.