Dear Sun Spots: I’m looking for someone who makes springs or a company who sells them? The spring is for a music box, that’s an old doll cradle from the mid-1930s. It would be super nice if you could please locate one. I thank you so much. – K.W., Greene.

Answer: In addition to responses from readers, a wonderful resource in the past has been The Musical Wonder House where you may have your music box repaired. Sun Spots would encourage you to contact them to see if you might be able to purchase your spring there. You may reach them at 18 High St., P.O. Box 604, Wiscasset, ME 04578. You may also reach the Musical Wonder House via phone at 882-7163. You might also be interested in checking out its museum.

You might also try the Merry Music Box Shoppe, 123 Main St., Freeport, ME 04032, 865-1500.

In the meantime, both stores may be checked out online at www.musicalwonderhouse.com.

Dear Sun Spots: I would appreciate any help you could give me in finding a woman who could teach me to knit. I am looking for someone who needs companionship and could offer me stories of days gone by while sharing our life stories. I may be reached at 240-3745. Thank you. – Debra Clarke, Sabattus.

Dear Sun Spots: I was wondering what the DVD that shows the inside of the Titanic is called? I would really like to buy it. Thanks for any help. – No Name, No Town.

Answer: According to www.amazon.com, scientist Robert Ballard set out to find and explore the wreck, despite difficulties of depth and location. Using the research submarine Alvin and a remote-controlled underwater robot, he was the first human in more than 70 years to see the giant resting beneath the North Atlantic waves. “Secrets of the Titanic: A Legend Surrenders Her Mysteries” tells the story of the events leading up to the sinking, using footage and photographs from the doomed maiden voyage and then follows the luckier Dr. Ballard through the steps leading to his discovery. The first views of the Titanic’s interior are described as being truly spectacular, especially when contrasted with vintage photos, and the excitement of Ballard and his crew is contagious. This National Geographic Video was released Dec. 14, 1999, and its run time is 51 minutes.

Dear Sun Spots: I have had the honor and opportunity to be selected as an ambassador with the People to People program. I will be representing the United States in Australia, giving me an opportunity to help promote peace through the understanding of other cultures.

I am a 14-year-old Gorham High School student and received recommendations from teachers as well as adults to complete this selection process and am so excited at being chosen.

I need to raise $5,000 to allow me to participate in this trip and would be grateful for any donations to help me achieve this goal. Any support you could give me would be greatly appreciated. Donations may be sent to Tyler Richardson at 8 Terry Street, Gorham, ME 04038. You can also reach me via phone at 892-4399 or leave a message at 671-2050.

The People to People is an educational program that promotes enhancing international understanding and friendship through educational, cultural and humanitarian activities involving the exchange of ideas and experiences directly among peoples of different countries and diverse cultures. It was founded by President Dwight D. Eisenhower. The organization takes students to other parts of the world, representing the United States, and helps them learn about foreign cultures. Tolerance and mutual understanding are central themes.

I would be happy to answer any questions you might have and look forward to your donations. Many thanks to Sun Spots and column readers for your assistance. – Tyler Richardson, Gorham.



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.