Dear Sun Spots: You are the bright spot in many lives. Once again, I am seeking your help.

A few years ago I cut out an article about the book “Firestarter” by Stephen King. Do you know how I can contact Mr. Adamovich as I have one of these books in very good condition.

Lastly, I have a few medals for different lodges and would like to return them to their different owners. Do you know how I can go about this? And in case you’re wondering how I have all the above items? My better half does demolition work and these are just a few of the items we have found over the past 30 plus years. My name is Bonnie and you can reach me at 782-6042. – Bonnie, No Town.

Answer:
Consider contacting Steve Adamovich at Cobblestone Books, 1500 El Camino Ave., #331, Sacramento, CA 05833, 916-923-3447. Sun Spots did speak with Adamovich in California (please note they are three hours behind us here in Maine). He notes that there were two editions of this book. One was an autographed copy, the other just a regular edition. He would be interested in the autographed copy but says the regular editions are plentiful.

And finally, Sun Spots would encourage you to contact your local veterans center or American Legion to see if anyone might be able to help you identify these or at least direct you to an organization that might.

Dear Sun Spots: I would like to remove initials written with permanent markers from the feet of my kids’ Smurfs, (Smurfs are little blue elf or gnome people about 1½ inch tall that kids played with in the ’70s and ’80s) so they can be sold online. Any suggestions? – Carol Kelley, No Town.

Answer: In addition to responses from readers, Sun Spots checked out www.sharpie.com. They offer the following tips:

The successful stain removal of ink stains differs from case to case because of the many types of fabrics, colors, inks and time elapsed before stain removal. Sharpie cannot guarantee stain removal since many variables can be involved. Testing first is always recommended as well as following both the stain remover and clothing manufacturer’s instructions. Following these steps, they note, should result in partial or complete removal.

General rules:

• Treat stains as soon as possible. Fresh stains can be removed more easily than old ones.

• Check manufacturer’s labels as to fabric content and any special instructions

• Always test stain removal solution first on a hidden part of the article or on swatch of fabric taken from seam allowance to insure no color loss or damage will occur.

• Where possible, lay stained article face down on paper towels or clean white cloth and apply stain removal solution to underside of stain so that stain can be removed from the surface instead of pushing it through the fabric. Replace towels or cloth as they absorb stain to prevent stain transfer.

• If enlisting the aid of a professional laundry or dry cleaner, be sure to indicate what the stain is and the type of fabric.

• Do not iron stained garments or put in dryer because this may set stain.

In addition, Sharpie’s Web site also links to Amodex Products Inc., which has a product its says will assist you in removing permanent marker. You may reach them online at www.amodexink.com or via mail at P.O. Box 3332, Bridgeport, CT 06605-0332, 1-203-335-1255, toll free at 877-866-1255 or via e-mail at customerservice@amodexink.com.

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 sunspots@sunjournal.com.


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