Dear Sun Spots: I was under the impression the state of Maine would start taking applications from individuals for the Dirigo Health insurance program on Feb. 1. This program was to help low-income people acquire affordable health insurance that would be effective April 1. If this is so, where does a person apply? – Herman E., No Town.

Answer: According to Maine’s Dirigo Health Agency, the DirigoChoice health coverage program, a collaboration between the state and Anthem, is now open to enrollment and available to eligible small business owners, sole proprietors (self-employed) and individuals. Enrollment applications are available by calling Anthem, where enrollees will be asked some questions and given a quote. Anthem will also send enrollees an application packet, which includes the DirigoChoice discount application form. Keep in mind that Anthem’s telephone quote does not include any eligible DirigoChoice monthly premium or deductible discounts. The application includes a discount estimator to help you find any discounts you may be eligible for, or you can use Dirigo Health’s online discount calculator at www.dirigohealth.maine.gov, click on “DirigoChoice Coverage” and then “New! Discount Calculator.”

To receive your Anthem quote and application: eligible small businesses, those businesses with between two and 50 eligible employees, can call Anthem at (800) 541-4251; and eligible sole proprietors and eligible individuals can call Anthem at (800) 585-0099. For more information, visit the Dirigo Web site or call the Dirigo Health Agency, (207) 287-9900.

Dear Sun Spots: In regards to people who write to you with special requests, I have a eight-track stereo tape of Andre Kostelanetz and his orchestra in very good condition to give to someone who would like it. Also, to H.B of Mechanic Falls who needed a white milk-glass hen that is 6½ by 5 inches wide, I have one, if interested. And, someone who wanted some white stockings, similar to the hospital kind, I have a few pairs to give. Please call at (207) 782-6589. Leave a message if you get the machine, and I’ll get in touch. – C.B., Lewiston.

Dear Sun Spots: I read your column each day and find it so enlightening. I do hope you can answer this. I’ve only been in the area for about 10 years. On Jan. 29, Bill Green’s “Maine Outdoors” on Channel 6 was talking about “old” ski slopes, and one woman on the show mentioned Grant’s Hill in Auburn. I asked all my sources and this hill was not heard of. So, I ask you. Where is Grant’s Hill in Auburn, or maybe I should ask, where was it? – Judy Baird, Auburn.

Answer: Sun Spots asked a co-worker who has lived in the area all her life. She saw the show as well and thinks you are referring to Brann’s Hill, which is on Park Avenue in Auburn. She says people used to slide there all the time, but she thinks it’s off-limits now due to liabilities. Brann’s Hill wasn’t a “ski slope,” just a nice big hill in someone’s backyard where everyone would go for many years, skiers, sliders and tobogganers.

Dear Sun Spots: I work for Support Solutions, a nonprofit organization that supports individuals with developmental disabilities. Our organization has started a Special Olympics team involving winter sports. We are currently looking for donations to help our athletes participate and excel in these sports. We are in need of the following equipment: downhill skis, cross-country skis, snowshoes, ski poles, helmets, ice skates and boots of all sizes. You can contact us by calling Support Solutions, (207) 795-0672, ext. 106. Thank you in advance for your generosity. – Charity Webster, Lewiston.

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