Dear Sun Spots: I am looking for someone or a group to help me obtain a patent on an idea, someone that will do it on a commission or for a very low fee. – No Name, No Town.

Answer: In addition to responses from readers, Sun Spots would encourage you to contact the Superintendent of Documents’ Office at (202) 512-1800 where you can order a general information booklet on patents for $4.75, with no tax or shipping costs.

Free basic information on the patent and trademark system, forms, fees, products and services of the U.S. Patent Trademark Office is available by calling (800) 786-9199 or (703) 308-4357. Getting a patent is a complex process that starts with filing an application with the commissioner of Patents and Trademarks. The details are too lengthy to include here. However, that application should be filed as soon as possible after the completion date of the invention. An application must be filed within one year of the date that the invention is known of, or used by others, or offered for sale. A patent allows the inventor to exclude others from making, using, offering for sale, or selling the invention. More information about patents can be found online at www.uspto.gov/web/offices/com/iip/data.htm.

Dear Sun Spots: Regarding removing your phone number from the Internet (Sun Spots request, Feb. 10): Type in your 10-digit phone number in Google. You can opt out of their listing by clicking on the phone icon next to your name in the search results. Google does point out that it won’t remove you from other phone look-up sites. This worked for me. – B.K., Lewiston.

Dear Sun Spots: I recently requested a pattern for a poncho and was very happy when I received an immediate response. Thanks, Sun Spots.

I was wondering how I could connect with two little girls that my Mom cared for years ago. They would be in their 50s by now. They lived in Bethel, Maine, and their names are Pamela and Mary Williams. Their father was George Williams, and their mother was Bertha Williams. This is very important for me to connect with these girls that I loved as much as my own siblings. I can be reached at (207) 782-8099. – Grace St. Hilaire, Lewiston.

Dear Sun Spots: I would like to find someone who does rug hooking and would need a good frame (Columbia), rug hookers and metal clips, all at a reasonable price. Please call (207) 784-6781 or leave a message. – P.C.C., Lewiston.

Dear Sun Spots: I am hoping that once again you can help me. I have been searching for a plastic canvas pattern for a few years now. It’s for a calendar made of 7-mesh plastic canvas. The month, days, year, etc. slide in and out. If anyone has an extra copy or knows where I can purchase a copy, I would greatly appreciate the info. Thank you so much for your help. I can be reached at P.O. Box 242, Oxford, ME 04270, (207) 743-2921. – S. Cole, Oxford.



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.