DEAR SUN SPOTS: As a subscriber, I thought you might like to publish the following after your great story about keeping from falling on the ice in the Feb. 5 issue. Another sure-to-work idea came to me when my work truck was stuck on a virtually flat, icy surface. I tried everything I had aboard my pickup to work my vehicle off the ice. Not far away, an “old timer” watched my antics for a while and then got out of his truck, reached into his bed and grabbed one section of old tire chains. He walked to my vehicle, saying nothing and threw the chains on the ground flat out under the driver’s wheel. He motioned for me to drive off, and bingo! It worked. I soon located an old, used set of tire chains and have never looked back. Two sets work great and the added weight in the vehicle is a plus in the winter. — Doug, Auburn.

DEAR SUN SPOTS: Do you know what happened to ABC’S show “Nashville” that aired at 10 p.m. on Wednesday nights? Are they on a winter break or just dropped from the lineup? It was a good show, and I am disappointed it has gone away. Thank you. — No name, Wilton. 

ANSWER: Sun Spots also enjoys that show, and Wednesdays haven’t been the same recently without it. You will be pleased to know that the show is scheduled to return for the second part of its fourth season on Wednesday, March 16, in its familiar time slot of 10 p.m. Even Hayden Panettiere, who plays the country diva Juliette on the show, is reportedly resuming her role in April after she took some time off to seek out treatment for postpartum depression. Nashville has, indeed, been on a winter break, which allows the network to introduce new programming. According to news reports, all things are a go for the show’s return and a fifth season is highly likely.

DEAR SUN SPOTS: In response to Marilyn’s question about anyone else who received notices regarding Dish increases, Dish sent out an invitation to try EPIX channels free for a month. At the same time in that note was the “we regret” to be increasing fees … $ 5. — Gloria, Buckfield.

DEAR SUN SPOTS: This is in regard to the Dish TV rate hike. I too received a letter regarding an increase. What I would do is call Dish TV and discuss what they can do to reduce the rate. If I’m unhappy with that outcome, then I simply say I’m considering canceling Dish. Then they put me in contact with “upper customer service” and the rate is usually reduced. Also, call every three months for promotions and specials that may help reduce your rate. — Cindy, Lisbon. 

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