DEAR SUN SPOTS: Regarding the comments about the background music on some TV shows (Jan. 31). I find it is the music on the shows themselves, which includes most dramatic shows, especially “Grey’s Anatomy,” “Private Practice” and the “CSI’s.” It’s very distracting and interferes with hearing the actual dialog.

Would complaining to the local network channels help? Maybe they could contact the shows’ producers? Thank you for all the helpful information in Sun Spots. — Beverly via email

ANSWER: Sun Spots is skeptical that appealing to the stations would help, but it won’t hurt to try.

One suggestion she has is to make use of closed captioning. Sun Spots’ viewing matter of choice is usually from the United Kingdom, and the accents, especially Scottish, can be difficult to follow, so the captioning helps her keep track.

It takes a little effort to adjust to reading the captioning, but it is well worth the effort. More and more shows are offering it.

To see if it’s available, use the “menu” button on your remote and look for the closed captioning option. If you’re watching a DVD, look for it under “setup.”

DEAR SUN SPOTS: In response to the lady who records shows on her DVR (Feb. 13), what we do is to start the show one minute before and one minute after in order to capture the whole show. If she clicks on the record button, there is an option button for recording shows. Hope this helps. — Sue Paige via email

DEAR SUN SPOTS: In response to Paul Dubay, who was looking to have metal doorknobs polished (Jan. 21), our company’s name is Life’s a Blast, and we are located on Fireslate Place in Lewiston, 795-7632. If no answer, please leave a message we will call you back.

We also do sand blasting, baking soda blasting and most other types of media blasting. Thank for the great service you provide. — Daniel J. Meehl, djmeehl@roadrunner.com

DEAR SUN SPOTS: The best course of action for No Name in Kingfield (Jan. 28), who is afraid for her 2-year-old daughter due to her estranged husband, is to contact the nearest REACH (Rape, Education and Crisis Hotline) office.

They are well-trained and all set up to help her. The police should be made aware of her situation as well and could help her get a protection order. — Nancy via email

DEAR SUN SPOTS: In response to the Feb. 3 search for materials to make an insulated cover, Fabric Warehouse in Auburn (near the intersection of Washington and Minot Avenue) has the supplies I buy to make my own window quilts. — Annie via email

DEAR SUN SPOTS: This is to the person looking for sealing wax (Aug. 11, 2010, and Feb. 7). It is also sold at the Book Burrow at the Auburn Mall on Center Street. — No Name via email

DEAR SUN SPOTS: In response to the person looking for the Lenox-Hayworth cup and saucer (Feb. 3), try Replacements Ltd. online at replacements.com. They have several available, although whether it is the type of cup and saucer being sought can’t be determined from the information in the column.

I’ve had very good luck filling out china and silverware patterns through this site. They also have an 800 number: 800-737-5223. — Steve, Auburn

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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