DEAR SUN SPOTS: First off, let me say that I really appreciate your column. It is most informative. Perhaps someone can help with my question. I have ink marks on my leather purse. Do you know of anything that will remove them? — No Name, No Town

ANSWER: Sun Spots found directions for several different methods online, and most suggest using isopropyl alcohol. The directions at laundry.about.com/od/stainremoval/a/leatherinkremov.htm were the clearest. They say that you should not attempt this method on suede; rather take the item to a professional cleaner. For regular smooth leather, you should test the alcohol on a hidden spot first. Be sure to use a clean white cloth and work from the outside of the stain to the inside to avoid spreading it.

Sun Spots attempted the method on a purse she ruined. The pen exploded so the stain was very large, and Sun Spots had tried cleaning it with saddle soap (another technique suggested online), which took some of the stain out, but also spread it. The alcohol was much more effective. Unfortunately, the stain in her purse was so bad that removing the ink also took some of the dye out of the leather.

You should have better luck if you tend to the stains quickly and follow the online directions.

DEAR SUN SPOTS: My parents enjoy the French programs offered on cable television. One show on Wednesday night, called “La Poule Oeufs Dor,” offers tickets so people at home can win. I would like to know if someone in the Lewiston-Auburn area sells the tickets used in this game show. Thanks so much. — No Name, Greene

ANSWER: Sun Spots was unable to ascertain whether the tickets are sold in Maine. There are many outlets in Quebec for purchasing them, but it’s unclear if they are also available in the United States. Sun Spots was hampered in obtaining further details by her lack of French language skills. Perhaps readers will be able to help.

DEAR SUN SPOTS: I believe I’ve seen this question asked before, but I did not think that I would need to keep your answer. I have a rosary that was recently given to me that is in need of repair. I believe Sun Spots knows someone who can do this. Could you please give me a telephone number and/or an address of the person who can repair rosaries? Thanks so much for your help. — Louise Dufour, Lewiston

ANSWER: Sun Spots called the jewelry repair shops listed in the phone book. Two of them said they’d work on rosaries: Jewelry By Alfred, 1761 Lisbon St., Lewiston, 782-7206, and Republic Jewelry and Coin, 212 Center St., Auburn, 784-4444.

DEAR SUN SPOTS: The following veterans’ events are planned for May.

Tuesday, May 11: Franco Veterans and Auxiliary meeting at the Multi-Purpose Center, 6:45 p.m.

Wednesday, May 12: Amvets and Auxiliary meeting in New Gloucester at 7:30 p.m.

Saturday, May 15: 60th anniversary of the Armed Forces Day, ceremony at the Veterans Park at noon.

Tuesday, May 18: VFW Post 9150 meeting at the Multi-Purpose Center at 6:30 p.m.

Thursday, May 20: American Legion Post 22 meeting and installation at the Multi-Purpose Center at 5:30 p.m.

Saturday, May 29: Memorial Day Parade and Ceremony in Lewiston-Auburn.

Monday, May 31: Memorial Day Parade in New Gloucester and also in Sabattus. 

Bert Dutil, badutil1@yahoo.com

DEAR SUN SPOTS: In response to No Town, No Name about getting a Ticked Off, I have gotten them several times at the Hannaford on Sabattus Street in Lewiston for, I think $3.49. They are in the pet section. They work extremely well. — Mary Hurd, via e-mail

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). Please include your phone number. 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.

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