Escapees September-October 2022

camping chair chat

Torque Wrench Tip I enjoyed Jim Koca’s “Weight and Safety” column on properly torqueing lug nuts in the July/ August issue. It reminded me of something I recently learned about torque wrenches. My friend and I were reassembling an engine and were having a problem torquing down the head bolts. It was evident that the torque wrench was releasing at a much lower torque than we set it for. When we borrowed a torque wrench from a neighbor who is a diesel mechanic, we explained why we needed it. He informed us that torque wrenches should always be set back to zero before they are stored. Otherwise, the spring inside will lose some of its strength over time and start giving false readings. Scott Vermilye #141031 Ant Removal Solution In a previous issue someone addressed a question about

North Ranch Creative Getaway 2023 A Week of Creativity: February 19–24, at North Ranch Rain bow Park, Congress, Arizona The second annual North Ranch Creative Getaway (new name after 14 years of “Bead Week”) will be February 19–24, 2023. Just when you thought you couldn’t learn one more craft, along come talented artisans to show you the way. Along with beading and Kumihimo (a traditional Japanese art-form of making braids and cords) and polymer clay creations, you’ll have the opportunity to learn and enjoy new mediums! Last year’s event was a great success and we’re excited about the upcoming projects which will be fi nalized soon. Beginners are especially welcome! You don’t need an art background to join us. Share your creativity, and you’ll be thrilled with your imaginative results. The North Ranch Creative Getaway has the answers. For only $15 plus any kit fees, you’ll come and learn something new and have a great week. See you in 2023! For more information, e-mail Sharon Maurina, the Co-Chairperson, at sharon@rovingcats.com. Cathy Benton #64041

ants in the RV. I had tiny sugar ants that I suspect had moved into my home. They appeared year ’round for a few years. I don’t use toxic products and I’ve lived in the tropics for years, on St. John in the Virgin Islands and, then, in Southern Flor

ida. Tero ant bait has never worked for me in any form; however, about a year ago, I discovered a fantastic product called Hot Shot Kitchen Bug Killer Botanical that has given my cat and I an ant-free existence! Hooray! It has almost no oder, so it is rather pleasant smelling. Lowe’s sells it for less than Walmart. Lynne Thorsen #140074

Fantasy Animals with Boni Pienups. PHOTO BY CATHY BENTON #64041

Pie Town In the May/June issue on page 51 an author suggests going to Pie Town for the best pies ever! I loved the Pie-O-Ne’er; but sadly they closed permanently after the pandemic year of 2020. Lynne Thorsen #140074

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September/October 2022 ESCAPEES Magazine