DEAR SUN SPOTS, Is it possible to purchase paper copies of old Sun Journal newspapers from 10-plus years ago for a specific date?

I thought it would be a great idea to keep copies of my son’s birthday paper, so he can look back at them years from now to see what was going on during his birthday for each year.

I have this year’s copy but would like copies of that day from years past, the last 11 to be specific. I wish I had come up with the idea when he was born, but maybe it’s not too late. Thank you for your insight to so many unique questions people send you! — No Name, Turner

ANSWER: What a nice idea! Sun Spots is sure many new mothers will follow your lead. It is unlikely that you can get those papers from the Sun Journal; however, you can call Customer Service Customer Service at 800-482-0759, ext. 1181, and see if they can help you with some of them.

Some people save old newspapers. Maybe one of them will write in and offer that day out of their supply.

DEAR SUN SPOTS: I am inquiring about liquor bottles that have not been opened for at least three years. They include rum, whisky and vodka. Is there an expiration date on these? — No Name, No Town

ANSWER: According to cocktails.about.com and several other websites, a base liquor, such as those you’ve listed, in an unopened bottle will be much the same in 20 years as it is today and has an almost unlimited shelf life if stored properly. Flavor, however, might be somewhat diluted in some instances.

The same is not true for some liqueurs and cordials, especially those that include dairy products, such as Bailey’s Irish Cream. They recommend drinking those within a year to 18 months.

In an opened bottle of liquor, the alcohol content will gradually evaporate, reducing the potency and making it taste “flat.” Sun Spots found no indication that old liquor will hurt you; it just won’t taste good.

You should store all liquor out of direct sunlight at room temperature. Make sure it is tightly closed.

DEAR SUN SPOTS: Do you have tips for getting a stain out of a rug? I’ve tried a Bissell Green Machine, citrus, dish soap. — No Name, Auburn

ANSWER: Sun Spots is a big fan of Resolve for her pet and Mr. Sun Spots stains. (He once spilt an entire cup of coffee on an oriental rug.) Readers?

DEAR SUN SPOTS: Tommy’s Feral Feline Friends is once again hosting its annual Christmas bake sale. We are looking for people who would like to bake or make candy to support the abandon and forgotten feral cats who rely on us to take care of them.

Tommy’s is a nonprofit organization that receives no funding and relies on the generosity and kindness of the community. Any baked goody would be sincerely appreciated and would help save lives.

The bake sale will be held at the Kennel Shop in the Lewiston Mall on Dec. 15 and 16. We will also be having face painting, a surprise visit from Santa and more surprises. If you would like to bake or for more information, please call me. — Norm, 650-8374

DEAR SUN SPOTS: I would like to thank everyone who answered my plea for spruce-colored yarn. The response was overwhelming, and I can now complete my afghan. I would also like to thank the Sun Journal for providing such a helpful service. Thanks again. — Marie Worcester, marieworcester@ymail.com

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 emailed to sunspots@sunjournal.com.

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