Dear Sun Spots: Who are the actors who played on the Bad News Bears movie? And how do I write to the actors? Thanks for the help. – No Name, No Town.

Answer: In addition to responses from readers, Sun Spots has learned there were two versions of this movie. The first released in 1976 was directed by Michael Ritchie and starred Walter Matthau, Chris Barnes, Tatum O’Neal, Ben Pizza and Vic Morrow.

The second was released in July 2005 and directed by Richard Linklater. It starred Billy Bob Thornton, Greg Kinnear, Marcia Gay Harden, Timmy Deters and Sammi Kane Kraft.

Sun Spots believes the actors you are seeking are the ones who starred in the 2005 release, in which case you should write to them c/o of Paramount Pictures, Paramount Studios, 5555 Melrose Ave., Hollywood, CA 90038, (323)956-5000.

Dear Sun Spots: I will be a first time kindergarten teacher this fall. My purse and my classroom are both bare. Do you know how I could acquire donated items such as colorful rugs, art supplies, children’s books, games, chart paper, an overhead projector, working computers and other classroom essentials?

My students and I would be forever grateful. I would gladly pick up any classroom donations. I can be reached at (207) 784-2112. – Cherie Poole, Lewiston.

Answer: In addition to responses from readers, Sun Spots would encourage you to contact your local Goodwill, even Marden’s Surplus & Salvage to see if they may have some inexpensive items.

Dear Sun Spots: I am wondering if you could find any information on the nutritional value of foods cooked in a crock pot, or slow cooker as compared to other methods of cooking. I was curious, since it seems food is affected nutritionally by heat, light and exposure to oil and water. The meals are convenient and extremely tasteful, but we want to be sure they are worth the effort nutritionally,

Thanking you in advance for anything you can come up with. We will be looking forward to seeing your reply. – L.B. Lisbon.

Answer: Sun Spots has been unable to find an exact listing of nutrients and vitamins that are retained by this method of cooking. However, you should note that the moist heat does not require the use of any oil or butter which saves on fat and calories. When using a crock pot all the vitamins stay right in the pot, allowing you to serve nutrient-rich gravy with meals instead of boiling them away.

Dear Sun Spots: Could you please let me know where I could get a CD or a tape by Lynn Anderson “Big Girls Don’t Cry?” – No Name, No Town.

Answer: In addition to responses from readers, Sun Spots located one online at www.amazon.com.

Dear Sun Spots: A few weeks ago you published a request for a set of encyclopedias. Was that request filled?

I have a full set of Compton Encyclopedias with the yearly update book to include 1986. It is free for the asking.

I hope you can please help find a home for them. – No Name, No Town.

Answer: The request was from a reader seeking a home for his/her set of encyclopedias. So like you, this reader is seeking someone interested in finding a home for their set of encyclopedias.

Dear Sun Spots: To the person who wants to get rid of sumac: Spread salt crystals around the base of sumac, just before a rainy day. – Leo Richard, Leeds.



This column is for you, our readers. It is for your questions and comments. There are only two rules: You must write to the column and sign your name (we won’t use it if you ask us not to). Letters will not be returned or answered by mail, and telephone calls will not be accepted. Your letters will appear as quickly as space allows. Address them to Sun Spots, P.O. Box 4400, Lewiston, ME 04243-4400. Inquiries can also be posted at www.sunjournal.com in the Advice section under Opinion on the left-hand corner of your computer screen. In addition, you can e-mail your inquiries to [email protected].