DEAR SUN SPOTS: Can anyone tell me how long one can use home-canned veggies and be safe? Also, store-brand cans of veggies? Thank you. — No Name, Auburn

ANSWER: There were numerous postings online relating stories about canned goods eaten after decades, but experts seem to agree that one year is near the maximum with some saying two years is acceptable, assuming the can or jar is still intact and stored at cool temperatures. Foods with high acidity contents (tomatoes and other fruits) or vinegar (pickles) don’t hold up as well as other vegetables.

Surprisingly, canned meat often lasts longer. One story online told of a can of meat that was found after 118 years and found to be nutritionally complete and safe! Another online poster said he had eaten canned meat from World War II in 1966 with no unfortunate results.

However, Sun Spots does not recommend that readers eat old canned goods! Utah State University has a thorough recap of information on this topic at http://tinyurl.com/2ec4f63.

As for store-bought canned foods, similar rules apply, but manufacturers make it easier for you by printing expiration dates on the cans, often on the bottom of the can.

DEAR SUN SPOTS: For the lady looking for a recipe for strawberry-rhubarb pie, I use the recipe on the back of the Minute tapioca box. It comes out perfect every time. It calls for 2 cups sliced strawberries, 2 cups cut rhubarb, ¼ cup Minute tapioca, 1¼ cup sugar, 1 teaspoon grated orange peel (optional). Mix together in bowl, let stand 15 minutes. Line 9-inch pie plate with crust, fill with fruit mixture. Dot with 1 tablespoon butter. Cover with top crust; seal, flute edge, cut several slits in crust. Bake in preheated 400-degree oven for 45 to 50 minutes or until juices form bubbles that burst slowly. Cool. Makes 8 servings. — Nana, Wales

DEAR SUN SPOTS: Please print the address where wishes for a speedy recovery can be sent for U2 lead singer Bono following emergency back surgery on Friday, May 21. We have tickets to the postponed Montreal show on July 16. Thank you. — Lisa Rowe, Mechanic Falls

ANSWER: Sun Spots was unable to find an address for Bono, but she did find one for the company that manages U2. Write to U2 Principle Management, 250 West 57th St., Suite 2120, New York, NY 10107. His website is www.u2.com. Many celebrities have moved all their fan communications online, with Facebook being a special favorite. There are also numerous websites with stories about Bono’s back surgery where you can post comments.

DEAR SUN SPOTS: How do I get in contact with “Sesame Street” composer Christopher Cerf? If Sun Spots has the answer, let me know. Thanks a lot. — Stephen Kovacs via e-mail

ANSWER: You can contact him through his educational television production company, Sirius Thinking, 146 East 62nd St., New York, NY 10021, 212-421-8893, info@siriusthinking.com.

DEAR SUN SPOTS: Would any readers know where I can purchase a 1969 Bernard’s School of Hair Fashion student book, or would anyone have one they would be willing to sell? I have contacted Bernard’s school, and they do not have any.

Also, I would be interested in buying a low flatbed tilt trailer with dual axles under the deck for a 450, seven-ton bulldozer. If anyone can help me with this or has one to sell, please call 375-9901. Thank you so much for your time and help. — No Name via e-mail

DEAR SUNSPOTS: We are looking for area crafters who might be interested in doing a weekly open-air market. This is held every Wednesday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Point Sebago Resort off Route 302 in Casco. The market begins on Wednesday, June 23, and ends on Wednesday, Sept. 1.

Cost is $350 for the 11 weeks or $50 per week. We are looking for handcrafted items only. Anyone wanting further information should e-mail debskitchen1@hotmail.com.

There will also be another show held at Point Sebago Resort on Sept. 25 during the annual Brew Fest. For more information contact me at the e-mail above. Hope to see you there. — Area Crafter

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.