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• Here’s your springtime reminder: As you install your window screens to air out the house (or even if you keep them up year-round), double-check to make sure they are pet-secure. Cats love a windowsill, and they can fall through and out the window if screens are not secure. If you have a pup, you may want to give it the push test — it should be able to withstand Fido’s nose jammed against it! • To preserve your manicure in the garden, wear gardening gloves. If you love the feel of dirt in your hands but don’t love dirty nails, simply rake your nails over a bar of soap before you dig in. The soap gets under there, keeping dirt out. Bonus, it’s easier to wash your hands afterward! • “If you use ground chicken or turkey to make lower-fat meatballs, give them some time to firm up by making the meatballs and putting them in the fridge for an hour or so. They hold together much better that way.” — F.K. in Missouri • Some tips for working with garlic: To peel cloves, microwave for 10-15 seconds or cover in plastic (in a sandwich baggie or plastic wrap) and crush lightly with a glass bowl or plate. To chop or mince, spray your knife with cooking spray or put a few drops of oil on the clove itself, as this will keep the garlic from sticking to the knife. Finally, go ahead and crush that garlic by turning your knife on its side and pressing down hard. • Add an eraser to your whiteboard marker by gluing a small pompom on the end with a drop of hot glue. Use giftwrap tape to tape a small magnet to the side of the marker, and it’s ready to go up on the fridge with your dryerase board. Send your tips to Now Here’s a Tip, 628 Virginia Drive, Orlando, FL 32803. © 2016 King Features Synd., Inc.