Dear Sun Spots: I am writing in response to an inquiry in the March 3 column from K.B. of in Turner who was looking for someone who does calligraphy.

I have done, and still do, calligraphy and would be willing to help. I live in Lewiston. I may be reached at 753-1823. – D.L.W., Lewiston.

Answer: Sun Spots has to say the writing on this response was just gorgeous. She can attest to the beautiful calligraphy written by this reader.

Dear Sun Spots: Your column is so, so helpful.

I have a frustration. I have a 6-foot artificial Benjamin Ficus tree. I love it, but it’s all dusty. How do I clean it? I have tried artificial plant cleaner from the department store. It did not work well.

Any suggestions? Thank you in advance for the assistance. – T., No Town.

Answer: In addition to responses from readers, you might consider using the following tips located online at www.thriftyfun.com:

• Take them outside on a nice day. Spray the leaves with rubbing alcohol and water mixture out of spray bottle. When they are dry (15 minutes, slightly mist them with Orange Glo (you can use a car cleaning mitt to spread the Orange Glo). Clean and shine.

• Dust your ficus trees on a weekly basis. One person noted they spent no more than 15 minutes total for all their trees, and they were equally as tall as yours. With a duster, take each branch gently into the palm of your hand for support and gently dust away. It is not necessary to do each leaf each time. If you do this on a weekly basis, eventually all leaves should be dusted, and in the meantime you’ve not wasted a lot of time.

• Another, again recommends taking them outside in the spring, lay them on the side and hose them down, shake the water off, stand them up and let them air dry.

• Try putting them in the shower and give a gentle spray.

Dear Sun Spots: I have a huge problem! I have a full 24-exposure film in my camera that I can’t get out.

It is all pictures of Christmas and birthdays of great-grandchildren that can’t be replaced, so I don’t want to lose it.

I need to find a camera repair shop in Lewiston or Auburn that has a dark room and might be able to help me. I have tried to find a place and failed, and I turn to you as you always seem to find the answers. Thank you. – Faithful Readers in Buckfield.

Answer: Unfortunately, Sun Spots is not aware of any in area since the Camera Service Center closed.

However, you might consider contacting the following to see if they might be able to assist you.

You could always call to discuss your problem prior to making a trip. Sun Spots has used these resources in past columns and they’ve all been most helpful:

• Classic Camera & Repair, 20 Edwards Ave., Biddeford, ME 04005, 284-5500. They are open Monday through Friday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

• Ritz Camera, 6 City Center, Portland, ME 04101, 772-7296, across from One City Center. They are open 7:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday to Friday and 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturdays.

• Shep’s Camera, 16 Hall Road, Woolwich, ME 04579-4900, 386-0079, is another possibility. They are open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

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.

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