Dear Sun Spots: This is in response to the letter from Joan of New Gloucester (Sun Spots’ request Dec. 20):

When I was in grammar school, Arlen E. Barnard (“The Three A Safety Man”) would travel around the state speaking about school patrols. A number of years later, after I was married and had children, one of them was injured in a car accident. My daughter was rushed to Maine Medical Center in Portland, and Barnard was working in the children’s ward as a volunteer, tending to the sick and injured children. He was a very kind, friendly, compassionate and caring person whom everyone who came in contact with loved. Some 20 years later, we were there again with this same daughter who was there in serious condition, in a coma. Along comes Mr. Barnard, now an Episcopal minister or priest. He had given up the insurance business and gone to theology school but was still volunteering. After speaking with my wife and me for a few minutes, he asked if he could pray over our daughter. Permission was granted. A short time later our daughter passed away to end her suffering.

My wife and I still remember him fondly and cherish his love and friendship after 25 years. I must also add that I recall reading his obituary some years ago.

I know this is a long letter but I hope it will answer her question. – Ralph Papasadora, Rumford.

Dear Sun Spots: I wrote over a month ago to ask if anyone knew where to find a French tape of the song “Dominique.” I would like an answer. Thank you. – M.W., No Town.

Answer: Unfortunately, Sun Spots never received your request.

Hopefully, readers may be able to assist you here. In the meantime, try contacting Carroll’s School and Music Center in Lewiston, (207) 782-2545 to see if they carry this or could special order it for you.

Dear Sun Spots: In reading the Dec. 29 column, I noticed that you had an inquiry about the state certified Residential Medication Aide Course. As a state certified instructor, I wanted to inform you of courses offered throughout Maine, including the Lewiston/Auburn area. Anyone can access the course listing at the following state Web site: BEAS-PersonalSupport Specialist – Training Calendar at: http://www.state.me.us/dhs/beas/pss/pss_calendar.php#1107. Courses vary in cost. All are available to the public as space allows. After the 40-hour course, a clinical component includes six, monitored medication passes by an RN. The eight-hour bridge course is required before this a CRMA expires or by September 2004 to maintain current certification. Hope this is helpful. Happy New Year from a loyal reader! – Linda Reed, R.N., Lewiston.

Dear Sun Spots: You have helped so many people and I hope you can help me.

I am having a problem with a mail carrier. I have complained to the postmaster but that has not solved the problem. I need the name and address of the inspector general to make a formal complaint. The postmaster told me to go online but I do not have access to the Internet. – No Name, No Town.

Answer: Sun Spots spoke with the postmaster who recommends you call the United States Postal Service public affairs office in Portland. You can reach them at (207) 828-8501. You could also talk to Christine Dugas at (401) 378-3701 if you are unable to reach anyone at the Portland office.

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). 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 posted at www.sunjournal.com in the Inform Us section under Press Release.

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