Now Here's a Tip: Reduce Energy Costs

By JoAnn Derson

• Generally, for every degree you lower your thermostat during heating season, you reduce your energy costs by 3%.

• Just in time for soup season (and my new year’s resolutions), here’s a great fat swap: Drain and rinse 2 cups of white beans and puree with a cup of no-sodium vegetable broth. You can use this as a thickener in place of heavy cream for soups and stews. — JoAnn

• To keep snow off your windshield, use a flannel-backed tablecloth stretched to cover both windshield and wipers. Put it flannel-side to the glass. Then you’ll be able to lift it (and the snow) off your windshield to drive.

• Wondering what winter fruits and vegetables are in season? Here’s a sampling: apples, dates and pears, as well as citrus, like grapefruit, orang- es and tangerines. For vegetables, consider endive, bok choy, Brussels sprouts, kale, leeks, mushrooms, pars- nips, radicchio, rutabagas, sweet pota- toes, turnips, yams and winter squash.

• “Want to keep your pants from creasing on the hanger? Grab an emp- ty paper-towel tube and slit it down the side. When you slip it over the bottom of the hanger, it creates a wide curve for the pants to lie across, and no more crease!” — M.U. in Colorado

• Remember that as temperatures drop and layers of clothing increase, children in a car seat need special consideration. Remove heavy coats before strapping in a small child or baby. Winter wear can compress during an accident, and it interferes with the straps.