GOOD MORNING, SUN SPOTS: I am trying to get a new computer as mine is about ready to crash. I have specific things I want on it, like two DVD/CD drives. Best Buy, Staples and OfficeMax don’t have any. Do you know where I can get one?

My second question is: For the last few years the Sun Journal has had an ad for a gentleman who does hypnotism for smoking and/or weight loss. Have I missed it lately? Do you have any information on this? Thanks for your help. — No Name via email

ANSWER: Mr. Sun Spots says that you can have a computer built to your specifications by going directly to the supplier, such as Dell or Lenovo. It won’t be cheap, as it will require special configuration.

You might find one less expensive used or refurbished online by searching for “dual DVD drives.”

As for the hypnotist, the Sun Journal advertising department said that ad ran long ago, and they are unable to locate the information. Perhaps a reader will remember or offer their own recommendation.

DEAR SUN SPOTS: Is there someone in the Lewiston area who would utilize an old Toshiba computer? For parts or whatever? — Neila, [email protected]

ANSWER: If the computer still works, there is probably an individual or group who would like to have it.

Sun Spots no longer has anyone in her Rolodex who fixes up old or broken computers. Please let her know if you know anyone who provides that service.

If you just want to drop it off locally for recycling, Staples, Best Buy and Goodwill will take it. Online options include www.computerswithcauses.org and www.recycles.org.

DEAR SUN SPOTS: One recent Sunday morning, our 3½-year-old plasma HD TV “died.” I tried unplugging it for several minutes, but no response. I have had several people say “you might as well get a new one,” so a new one will be delivered tomorrow. It just seems a shame to throw this one away. Does anyone know if they can be repaired?

Thanks so much for any help. — M. Houlihan via email

ANSWER: Sun Spots has not heard promising things about fixing them. It turns out that it can cost more to repair than replace them. But they can usually be fixed, and you can save money if you tackle the job yourself. There are tutorials on YouTube.

If you want to consult a professional, try Deny’s Service Center, 1256 Sabattus St., Lewiston, 207-783-6869, or JD Electronics, 193 North Raymond Road, Poland, 207-998-5687.

DEAR SUN SPOTS: Now that the “Luann” folks have gotten their way, how about bringing back “Dick Tracy”? I’m still smarting over that one. — Charles Bouchles via email

ANSWER: Sun Spots has been told that no more changes to the comics pages are contemplated, other than finding a spot outside the comic pages for the much-despised “Rhymes With Orange.” But Charles is not alone in his discontent. Here’s another complaint.

DEAR SUN SPOTS: Maybe I am an old-timer, but I think your choice of cartoons for the “comic pages” is ridiculous, and I don’t see any humor in them. 

The final straw was eliminating “Luann” with that most terrible replacement. Those I think that should be replaced or gotten rid of are “Baby Blues,” “Zits,” “Rose Is Rose” and especially “Rhymes With Orange.”

Where do these cartoonists get their education? — Anne Justard, Rumford

P.S. Your column is the most interesting thing in the newspaper.

ANSWER: Sun Spots appreciates the compliment. She does have to admit that she disagrees, however, on the comics. She thinks “Baby Blues” is the funniest.

Finally, let’s end this discussion with a thank-you.

DEAR SUN SPOTS: As one of the writers lamenting the loss of “Luann,” I would like to say thank-you to Rex Rhoades for bringing it back.

I appreciate his efforts and listening to subscribers. And also a big thanks to you, Sun Spots, for airing the letters in your column. — A fan via email

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 [email protected].