The modern necktie, ascot, and bow tie are all descended from the cravat, the silk scarf first worn by Croatian soldiers visiting to Paris in 1660, celebrating victory over the Ottoman Empire. King Louis XIV, admiring the adornments, adopted them as insignias of royalty. While history has ‘ties’ for the most popular ways to knot ties, and many believe the Windsor knot is the only really correct way, the Mailbag offers unconventional uses for a very conventional accessory.

Ties, trimmings and endless possibilities

“I have dozens of neckties that have been cleaned out from our closet,” writes Elaine N. of Nashua (LTR 2,166). “They are all in excellent condition and I know that some people put them to good use with sewing projects. I also have a large amount of lace trimmings that someone may want for various decorating or sewing projects. Always enjoy reading your column and the generosity of the readers out there putting to good use things others could use. Thank you.” From pillows, wall decorations, patchwork blankets, quilts, and wreaths, to eyeglass cases, stuffed rattlesnake toys, a miniskirt, tablecloth, as well as covers for boxes, books, chair covers and seats … the possibilities for practical and decorative uses and reuses for men’s neckties are practically endless online, in books, magazines and at your local craft store. Elaine can be reached at 889-5272 and would prefer calls after 9:30 a.m. on Sunday.

Needs microwave for elderly friend with limited income

“I’ve been helping a friend who is elderly and very poor trying to get things for his apartment, he does not want much and does live very meagerly,” writes Mickey of Nashua (LTR 3,371). “He has asked me to try and find a Microwave for him so he can get some frozen dinners and warm them up. He does not use the oven, only the burners. I have looked at Savers and searched Yard Sales with no luck that either one of us could afford. I have purchased jeans, shirts, used radio and pots and pans for him and have not accepted any money. The last thing he has requested is a Microwave. I just can’t afford one right now. I am so hoping one of your readers would have an extra one not in use. I am about to have major surgery and was hoping to have a Microwave for him soon. I can pick it up within a 10-mile radius of Nashua. Thank you so much for all you are and all you do for the community!” American author, H. Jackson Brown Jr., reminds us to “Remember that a gesture of friendship, no matter how small, is always appreciated” – sometimes even to serve as an inspiration to someone else. Anyone who can be a ‘friend in deed’ and help Mickey with a microwave for her ‘friend in need’ should call 880-0584. Your help will be much appreciated. Mickey, prayers are with you for your upcoming surgery.

Commode available

“I have a commode with rails that was used once,” says Dee M. (LTR 314). “It’s like new. Has a bucket with handle and cover. It’s been sanitized. Holds 300 pounds. Not a wide one. Can deliver in Nashua or within five miles. Hope someone can use it.” This is an item no one wishes to need, but wishes they had should the need arise! If you, a family member, or friend would be more comfortable having a commode at bedside or close at hand, Dee can be reached at 721-2890.

Updates

– Janet M. of Litchfield (LTR 3,370) writes: “Just wanted to let you know that a lovely women from Mason, NH picked up the 100-cup coffee maker today. She was so happy and I was as happy knowing that someone could use it. Also, received a call from Sandy B. of Nashua and she picked up the food warmer with sterno cups and the 18-quart roaster. Thank you for helping me to find people that could use things that I might have had to throw away. Now knowing that someone is using them makes me feel great. Thanks again, love your column!”

– Ed G. of Nashua (LTR 1,551) writes: “No problem with the A/C – I received four calls, no calls for the VHS cabinets. Thanks for your help.” In case someone missed Ed’s offer two weeks ago, he still has 12, two-drawer, stackable cabinets, 17-by-12-by-5 inches, formerly used to house VHS tapes. Interested parties should call Ed at 888-7843, after 9 a.m.

A ‘Back to School’ shopping reminder …

The Nashua Soup Kitchen & Shelter is starting their 2018 ‘Backpacks for Back to School Program.’ Donations of backpacks and school supplies will be accepted starting, Monday, July 30, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Chris’ Mailbag will publish a ‘Supply Wish List’ next Sunday. Folks shopping for supplies for their own children might want to consider purchasing ‘extras’ for a really good cause!

Contact Chris’ Mailbag by emailing christine.graham33@gmail.com or sending mail to Chris’ Mailbag c/o The Telegraph, 110 Main St., Suite 1, Nashua 03060. Include full name and complete address, along with telephone number or email address for publication, if applicable. Items eligible for publication are for donation, trade or barter only; requests of items for sale or purchase will not be included.

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