ANSWER: Technology is an incredible thing that Sun Spots sometimes understands, and, well, sometimes just pretends to. Research into this question explained that The Weather Channel uses an advanced software that uses pre-recorded tracks for narration of current weather conditions. The software, called IntelliSTAR, automatically generates narrated weather reports for local viewer areas using Jim […]

ANSWER: Sun Spots checked her Rolodex and found one place within a reasonable drive. Carlson and Turner Antiquarian Books is located at 241 Congress St. in Portland. Their phone number is (207) 773-4200. In addition to having a shop full of antique books, they also offer bookbinding services, repairing books and specializing in conservation of […]

DEAR SUN SPOTS: Always can count on Sun Spots for help. My request is for Flip Flops for Haiti, plus assorted other goodies — like toiletries, baby clothing, short sleeve clothing for boys and girls ages 3- to 16-years-old, school supplies, soap (liquid and solid for personal use), hand towels, face cloths, combs, brushes, barrettes […]

ANSWER: On March 29, the city of Auburn released an announcement that it will not be hosting a Spring Clean-Up Program this year. According to the press release, residents of Auburn have the option of dropping-off — free of charge after signing in — TV’s, monitors, computers and printers at the public services facility located […]

DEAR SUN SPOTS: According to the IRS, how many years should you keep your tax returns? Thanks. — Bob, Norway.   ANSWER: According to the IRS.gov website, except in certain situations, you should keep your tax returns and all supporting documentation for a period of three years, or for the length of the “period of […]

DEAR SUN SPOTS: Is there anyone in “Sun Spots Land” who could occasionally take me to either J.C. Penney Co., Kohl’s, or the Dollar Store, as I don’t have a car or access to transportation? Any assistance provided me would be greatly appreciated. Thank you. — No Name, Lewiston.   ANSWER: Sun Spots hopes that […]

ANSWER: You are correct. According to the USDA Food Safety and Inspection Service, washing raw meat (of any kind, actually) prior to cooking is not recommended. This is primarily because of the danger that rinsing the meat will cause cross-contamination by creating splashing onto other surfaces of the kitchen. Without proper sanitizing of those now-contaminated […]

Cycling for healthy air for more than 31 years, the Trek Across Maine attracts nearly 2,000 cyclists and 750 volunteers. This three-day trek takes cyclists 180 miles from Sunday River to the sea in Belfast. The Trek Across Maine is the largest fundraiser of its kind for the American Lung Association nationwide. Join us for […]

DEAR SUN SPOTS: I have an abundance of costume, 10k and 14k gold jewelry that I would like to sell on consignment. Do you know of any places that do that? Thanks. — No Name, Auburn. ANSWER: A few of the clothing consignment shops around, like Juliet’s Clothing and Accessories at 120 Center St. in […]

ANSWER: Each fourth Sunday of March, dozens of farms across the state, many of which are members of the Maine Maple Producers Association, host their share of more than 100,000 visitors eager for their first taste of the season’s maple goodness. The annual event began in 1984 as way to promote Maine’s more than $48 […]