DEAR SUN SPOTS: Does Mr. Sun Spots have a solution for eliminating squeaking Canadian rockers? Thank you for all the good advice. — No Name, No Town

ANSWER: Instead of Mr. Sun Spots (whose expertise is primarily in more technical areas), Sun Spots put this question to her carpenter, Larry, who said that what happens with a squeaky rocker is that the wood dries out.

The wood needs to be oiled, but you shouldn’t use petroleum-based oils. Larry said linseed oil is best, but is rather pricey. He said Murphy’s will also work, but won’t last as long.

Place your rocker on something to protect the floor (another good use for old newspapers), then after identifying the squeaky area, oil liberally. Let the oil set in. You may have to do this more than once. Buff, then rock away, quietly.

Readers may have additional tips.

DEAR SUN SPOTS: Thanks for all your hard work and the information you and your readers share.

A few weeks ago in Sun Spots there was a letter saying cats cannot see themselves in a mirror. I have mirrored folding doors in front of my washer and dryer. My cats looks in the mirror and when I open the doors a little he goes in and checks around the corner. I thought he was looking for another cat.

In another matter, I like the way the box scores were presented in the sports section on June 17. I wish all Red Sox box scores would be printed. When the game ends too late for the that day’s issue some are and some aren’t. — No Name, No Town

ANSWER: Your cat probably is looking for another cat. A cat can “see” in a mirror; it just can’t recognize that cat as being itself.

As for the box scores, Sports Editor Justin Pelletier said they almost always run those box scores. If not the day immediately following the game, then the day after, with very occasional exceptions.

DEAR SUN SPOTS: A couple of weeks ago you answered a question about why the song “Sweet Caroline” was played at Red Sox games. I found your answer and research into your answer very interesting and intended to cut it out, but the paper went out before I remembered to do so. Could you repeat it or email it to me?

Really enjoy the Sun Journal but wish it would carry the happenings of the Sea Dogs. Thank you. — Larry Sheehan, ljs35bjs@gmail.com

ANSWER: You can read that June 13 column at http://tinyurl.com/mvglatf.

As for the Sea Dogs, Sun Journal Sports Editor Justin Pelletier said he, too, would like to cover them, but staff limitations prevent it.

The Portland Press Herald covers the team, but their stories are not available to the Sun Journal because the Associated Press doesn’t pick them up.

DEAR SUN SPOTS: I am looking for quite a few wire clothes hangers. I’m having a lawn sale and have a ton of shirts that I don’t want to just throw on a table. Paying a lot would defeat the purpose of trying to make a little money at my sale.

Perhaps some company that has their uniforms cleaned and has a bunch of hangers would like to get rid of them. Call or text me at 418-2433. — Dixfield

ANSWER: Tsk, tsk. You have not been reading Sun Spots carefully. In Thursday’s column, Debbie Smith offered those same hangers for the taking. Email debsmith@tdstelme.net or call 585-2587. 

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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