Dear Sun Spots: I am boiling potatoes for a pig. I need to know how much I am spending on propane to see if it would be cheaper to buy grain. How much does it cost to run a burner on a propane stove, medium heat for approximately one hour? Or, on high for a half hour. – Curious in Canton.

Answer: Many thanks to Ken Matthews from Propane Consultants in Raymond, Maine who says, first, you need to establish the amount of heat produced to boil water. That formula, he writes, is based on the temperature of the water before any heat is added. In general it takes 1-British Thermal Unit (referred to as a BTU) to raise the temperature of 1 pound of water 1 degree. Sun Spots has provided you with Matthew’s more detailed answer to assist you in answering your question. He also recommends you check both the electric rates and propane cost in your area to determine which source of energy is more cost effective to boil your potatoes.

Dear Sun Spots: How do you write to the actor Jake Cherry who played Nicky in the “Night of the Museum” movie? What other movies has he done? How old is he now? – No Name, No Town.

Answer: Consider contacting Jake Cherry, via his father at Mr. Marc Cherry, Executive Producer, Universal City, CA 91608.

According to several Web sites, Cherry was born Sept. 15, 1996, and is best known for portraying Nick Daley in “Night at the Museum” and as Edie Britt’s son Travels McLain in “Desperate Housewives.” He has also appeared in Fox’s former series “Head Cases” and debuted in “Friends with Money” alongside Jennifer Aniston. He also also appeared in “Blue’s Clues,” “Third Watch,” “Kat Plus One,” “Miracle Run” and others.

Dear Sun Spots: I have 50 or more 500-to-750-piece jigsaw puzzles to swap. My mother enjoys them, and I would like to trade the ones she has completed with someone who also enjoys them. You may call Sheila at 375-4820 if you are interested. – No Name, No Town.

Dear Sun Spots: Well, I would like to say a big thank you to Connie Mercier who is selling traction aids. I bought a set from her and can you believe it: They got used four times in one day!

I had someone plow my driveway. One car was stuck on ice and couldn’t get out. So, we used the Traction Aids and in a flash it was free. Then the plow truck got stuck three times. I’m not worried any more. Let it snow! I have my Traction Aids. – Jean in Auburn.

Dear Sun Spots: I would like to make a request from all your wonderful readers. I am looking for a 1958 Amaracus, yearbook, from Monmouth Academy. This is the 50th reunion year. We moved in a hurry in 2001, and it was lost. A former student I know is ill with a weak heart. He has always felt bad because of the loss. I would like to replace it for him. If anyone out there would be willing to please make one available to me as a gift or for a small fee, I would be very grateful. They may contact me via 2-mail at [email protected].

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].