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Dear Heloise: As a coffee professional, I'd like to add to the conversation about bitterness in coffee. The No. 1 cause of bitterness is overextraction. The brewing method determines the grind size. This is related to the length of time that the grounds remain in contact with the water. If you consistently have bitter coffee, your grind is too fine for your brewing method. -- Jennifer S., via email
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Dear Heloise: One of the most important things you can donate to shelters is your time! You can help with feeding and socializing young animals, as well as providing love and pats for new arrivals and others waiting for adoption.
Dogs need to go for walks! Our local shelters are always looking for volunteers to take one or more of their dogs out for a nice walk around their property. You get your daily workout in at the same time!
I always read your column first in the Villages Daily Sun! -- Patricia B., The Villages, Fla.
Dear Heloise: Thank you for reminding Patrick M. that using puppy pads to keep a counter clean is adding to the landfill. We need to do everything possible to not increase landfills. Once they're filled, there are limited uses for the land.
A fire started in a landfill in Southern California, which released noxious fumes and cancer-causing materials. It is expected to burn for decades. Composting, whether at home or through a community-based program, is very important. Decaying organic matter releases methane gas.
Thank you and your mother for the years of information/advice. I read your column in the Ventura Star. -- Lilith, in Ventura, Calif.
Dear Heloise: Several years ago, clothes were coming out of my washing machine with a rotted smell. I also noticed mold growing inside the area where the liquid fabric softener would go in my washing machine. It didn't matter if it was a name-brand fabric softener or a lower brand. No matter how often I cleaned out the machine, this would continue.
I chose to stop using softener, figuring something was in it that caused this. I started to use either dryer sheets or wool balls. The smell has never come back again. Problem solved! -- Elizabeth M.
Elizabeth, yes, indeed, using too much softener or not regularly cleaning the dispenser can cause mold growth. Front loaders are especially prone to this problem. Cold water, which most people use today, can also stop the softener from completely dissolving, creating a residue buildup. Always leave the washer door open for about an hour to dry out. -- Heloise