Graffiti
Like most cities, as noted in previous rants, The Lou has her share of graffiti, some artistically crafted, most, lazy scribbles. Our neighborhood has been hit by random surges of scribblers since we’ve lived here. It usually takes a rag and a bottle of goof-off and the mark is gone. Street signs appear to be the favorite canvas, which is good because it is easy to remove the ink. Once, some marks were made on our street level terracotta, which cleaned up easily, too. We try to remove them as soon as they appear, as recommended by the neighborhood watch group.
I first thought that posting a photo of the scribbling would be the wrong thing to do, but I think it is part of the discussion to note how ugly and pointless this is.
Recently, a more personal mark appeared. The mark’s appearance coincided with our corner’s use as a bus stop by three mohawked brothers, ages, maybe, 7 to 12. They are often waiting on the corner in the morning when one of us (mostly Tom) walks the girls. As soon as they see the girls they all start shouting loudly. I can make out ‘Lucy!’ but the rest is a jumble, as they shout over each other.
This one isn’t like the others, and because it is on the limestone, isn’t coming off with the usual cleaners.
I think the appearance of the boys and the mark is more than a coincidence. Tom staunchly disagrees and doesn’t find the evidence sufficient. He has decided to befriend the boys, bringing them bottles of water when it was still hot outside. Lucy is happy to expand her fan club further and enjoys their attention. Lily stays out of their reach. One morning I asked them if they knew who made the mark. They were as dumbfounded as if I asked them if who murdered Santa Claus. (or Where’s Flick?)
A recent attempt was made to alter the mark.
It looks like Tom’s assault of kindness may be helping. In the meantime, how do we remove ink from limestone?
B. A. B. 
Try this? http://www.saferforyourhome.com/sol-u-mel.htm
Interesting- Sounds like a miracle product
Mike suggests grinding it.
I suggest muriatic acid.
National preservation website link: http://www.gsa.gov/portal/content/111930
Sorry – was trying to reply from my phone – don’t know why it posted twice. 🙂
Mike says, “grind it.”
I say, “muriatic acid.”
National Preservation document link: http://www.gsa.gov/portal/content/111930
The GSA has some good information:
http://www.gsa.gov/portal/content/111922
Fun with chemicals!
Sue and Tom – Terri Gross had a great interview with Jolie Kerr, who wrote “My Boyfriend Barfed in my Handbag and Other Things You Can’t Ask Martha.” It’s all about cleaning tips – listen to the interview and then you could email Jolie – she is very funny – and has amazing knowledge about this sort of thing. Check it out… http://www.npr.org/2014/04/03/298375948/embarrassing-stains-this-housekeeping-guide-gets-that-life-is-messy
A2
This afternoon I tried teeth whitening toothpaste. Got some weird looks from the neighbors. It faded the ink a little but it really cleaned the stone- and it is minty fresh.
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