Dear Sun Spots: I was wondering where Doug Rafferty from WGME 13 went? Thank you. – No Name, Leeds.

Answer: You and other fans may not have noted the Associated Press article published Jan. 31 that noted Rafferty, WGME-TV’s anchor who suffered an on-air stroke a year ago, is leaving the anchor desk after 16 years.

The article stated that Rafferty was expected to continue hosting his “Doug’s Discovery” segment and report on various special topics for the CBS affiliate. His new job will feature behind-the-scenes work and some work as a WGME spokesman, said Terry Cole, the station’s general manager.

“Leaving the anchor desk is hard, but change and excitement are some things I’ve been looking for,” Rafferty said in the article. “The daily grind of turning out half-hour newscasts is not doing it for me.”

Rafferty, 54, said the decision had nothing to do with the stroke he suffered on-air on Jan. 19, 2006. His stroke was minor, and he said he’s currently “fine.”

The 6 p.m. slot that Rafferty held alongside anchor Kim Block will be filled by reporter and anchor Gregg Lagerquist, the station said.

Dear Sun Spots: Is there anyone who can put new bows on faded craft items? Also, is there anyone who can mend holes in woolen sweaters? Thank you. I may be reached at 783-0904. – No Name, Lewiston.

Dear Sun Spots: This is in response to the inquiry made by George Lachance about craft fair information (Sun Spots column Feb. 12):

I organize two fairs annually. The first is an open- air marketplace held every Wednesday from June 20 to Aug. 29 within the Point Sebago Resort, off Route 302 in Casco. We could have from 500 to 2,500 people through the market weekly. We are open from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily, rain or shine. The cost is $350 for the 11-week season or you can pay $50 per week.

The second is held on Sept. 29 at the Point Sebago Resort and is part of the Greater Bridgton Area Brewers Festival. This craft fair has been held for seven years and last year was the first with the Brew Fest.

We see between 1,000 to 3,000 people come through. We are open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and the cost is $25 (if paid before Aug. 1) or $35 after the deadline.

There is also a book published each year by a crafting friend. It lists craft fairs all over Maine and some from New Hampshire. I believe the cost is $17 with updated information sent every three months or so. You can order this by going to www.craftah.com or by writing to Craftah Ink, P.O. Box 11, Pittsfield, ME 04967.

For more info on these craft fairs I can be reached via e-mail at debskitchen@adelphia.net or by post at 429 Penobscot St., Rumford, ME 04276. Thank you. – D. Grant, Rumford.

Dear Sun Spots: I am responding to the writer in search of hearing aids (Sun Spots inquiry Jan. 26): I have three of them, which were my grandmother’s, all for the left ear. (No, she did not have three left ears; she was just very particular about her hearing aids!) I’m not sure how well they work, as I have no batteries to test them. They are free to anyone who needs them and cannot afford to purchase their own. Glad to help. I may be reached at 946-3273. – No Name, Greene.

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 Advice section under Opinion on the left-hand corner of your computer screen. In addition, you can e-mail your inquiries to sunspots@sunjournal.com.

Copy the Story Link