Dear Sun Spots: I have collected several sets of plastic rings that bind together 6-packs of Poland Spring sparkling water. Surely Poland Spring Water Co. takes the responsibility of recycling these plastic items. I have no way to recycle them and would gladly drop them off at the Poland Spring bottling company. Can you please find out where they are located and when I could do this? Thank you Sun Spots. – In A Six Ring Bind, No Town.

Answer: Sun Spots corresponded with Nestle’s director of public affairs, Brian Flaherty, who says the plastic rings are a highly recyclable item. However, the company is not equipped to take them back. He recommends you contact your local municipal transfer station or drop-off sites.

Flaherty also notes that Poland Spring participates in over 90 percent recycling at its facilities and factories. That includes using less cardboard to thinner plastics. And now, he notes, Poland Spring will shortly start using the lightest plastic bottle in the country, their Eco Shape, half liter bottles which will be introduced to consumers soon.

Dear Sun Spots: I wonder if you can please find out when the Village Inn restaurant in Auburn plans to reopen? I have two gift certificates that I would like to redeem or get my money back. Also, is there an expiration date for these? I got them Christmas 2006. – No Name, Auburn.

Answer: Unfortunately, Sun Spots has not received a return call to previous inquiries. Our business reporter has also not heard of an opening date. Regarding your question about expiration dates on gift certificates: You should note that changes in Maine state law back in 2005 now prohibits merchants from charging fees or putting expiration dates on gift certificates and gift cards. If a gift certificate or gift card is not used for at least two years, then 60 percent of its remaining value will be returned to the consumer through the State Treasurer’s Lost or Unclaimed Property program.

The Village Inn has been an Auburn staple for 43 years.

Dear Sun Spots: Last year, I think, you had a recipe for creton. I copied it and lost it. Now I would like to see if someone could please send in one to Sun Spots. Thank you. – No Name, No Town.

Dear Sun Spots: This is in answer to No Name, No Town in Friday’s column who is looking for a brass tree. I have one that I am willing to sell. It is in very good condition. Please call me at 784-6728 for more information. – No Name, No Town.

Dear Sun Spots: I have had luck with your column Sun Spots, which I try to help out with requests, if I can. Several years ago, I had a pattern for Teddy Bear Afghan made in a square. The ears stuck up and the bear was wearing a bow tie. I have a new great-grandson and would like to knit it but have lost the pattern. Any help would be appreciated. I may be reached via mail at P.O. Box 97, East Poland, ME 04230. – No Name, East Poland.

Answer: In addition to responses from readers, Sun Spots has located several crochet patterns, no knitted and not with bow ties. Hopefully readers will be able to assist you here.

• To No Name, No Town, seeking white pumpkins for a wedding (Wednesday’s column): Contact Provenchers Landscaping Nursery, 299 River Road, Lewiston, ME 04240, 783-9777. They carry white, Lumina, pumpkins of varying sizes. They are open Mon to Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., and Sundays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

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].