DEAR SUN SPOTS: I moved to Texas in the middle of August to be near my daughter, a registered nurse at Baylor Hospital, because my wife, Betty, has ALS. I enjoy your column very much. I have the Sun Journal sent to me to keep up on the news in Lewiston-Auburn and the towns in Central and Western Maine, and also to see the obituaries. I don’t know who’s to blame — I believe the post office for they are in deep trouble — but I don’t get the Sun Journal for days, then I may get several at once, sometimes earlier dates after newer dates. It is always a week or more behind. Can you help? — Albert Greenleaf, Keller, Texas

ANSWER: Newspapers and magazines are part of the periodical class of mail (used to be called second-class), which merits a special rate from the U.S. Postal Service. Instead of shipping with your letters and bills, newspapers are bundled with other similar mail. So, for example, at the postal sorting facility your Monday paper might end up in one load and your Tuesday in another, but then, what with all the many stops along the way to Texas, your Tuesday paper arrives first. You could file a complaint at your post office and see if they can speed things along. You can be assured that the Sun Journal promptly mails each issue. If you are anxious for local news and have access to a computer, you can visit www.sunjournal.com.

DEAR SUN SPOTS: Thank you for your help in the past. I have three questions. First, why is the Sun Journal no longer printing a list of movies and their playing times? This is really inconvenient, as not everyone has access to a computer.

Second, is there an agility class for dogs within 20 or so miles of Lewiston?

Third, I have a lot of clear plastic containers with covers from Hannaford’s deli. Is there someone who could use them? I like to use deli salads for lunches at work, but I am really concerned about dumping them. I can be reached at 782-8518. — Lorraine Latour, Lewiston

ANSWER: The removal of the movie times was not an editorial decision. They were part of advertisements paid for by Flagship Cinemas, and Flagship cut back their ads. However, there is a phone number in their ad where you can call and listen to a recording that provides information on all the movies and the times they play.

As for the agility class for dogs, Sun Spots doesn’t have any information, but perhaps a reader will.

And lastly, on those clear plastic containers, Sun Spots is able to recycle them at her transfer station. Perhaps you can do the same if no reader wants them.

DEAR SUN SPOTS: Thank you for providing this wonderful service. High Street Congregational Church in Auburn is planning its annual Christmas fair on Saturday, Nov. 21, from 9 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. We will be renting tables to crafters and vendors again this year, as well as having our own tables. Eight-foot tables are available for $25. To reserve a table or for more information, please contact Sue Ray at 576-5026 or e-mail churchfair@highstreetucc.org. Thank you. — Sue Ray, Auburn

DEAR SUN SPOTS:
Is it possible to get a complete list of area craft fairs? I live in Auburn.
Thank you. —
Stephanie, Auburn

ANSWER: The Sun Journal does not have a specific list of just craft fairs; however, most craft fairs are listed in Check It Out in the local section of the newspaper, usually on page B3. You should also read Sun Spots every day, as readers often share news of their upcoming fairs in this column. In the last month alone, several readers have offered excellent information to those looking for craft fairs. To read those questions and answer, visit www.sunjournal.com and search for “craft fairs.” 

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 e-mailed to sunspots@sunjournal.com.