Dear Sun Spots: I’m hoping that your Sun Spots readers will help us out. The Lewiston School Department is continuously looking at providing opportunities for students in the arts. Each year, we find more and more young students showing an interest in music. Historically, parents have either purchased or rented instruments for their children to play. As prices escalate on necessities, we are finding that a number of students are not able to take instrumental music lessons. The school department does its best to keep adding to our instrument lending program, but find that we could use more instruments.

Perhaps some of you have usable band instruments sitting in closets or attics or back bedrooms that are no longer being used. If you would like to donate an instrument, we would appreciate the opportunity to put more instruments in the hands of our Lewiston students. If anyone is able to help, we would be grateful. Any band instruments may be donated at the Lewiston School Department’s Dingley Building at 36 Oak St. Thank you. – George Veilleux, Assistant Curriculum Director.


Dear Sun Spots: There is (or used to be) a local program called “No Hit Videos” (I think). I cannot find it any more. I believe it ran on public television. Help please. – Siiri Cressey, Lewiston

Answer:
Ed Porter, producer of “No Hit Videos,” says that it’s nice to hear from the fans. Unfortunately, although he’d like to produce a few more shows, he does not have the time right now. He notes that some public access channels may still air old episodes of the show from time to time.

Dear Sun Spots: First, I want to comment about the EdenPure heater. We purchased one last year and we’re very happy with the product. We heat with propane in a double-wide mobile home. We have it in the living room. I would use it during the day only. The first month of use the electric bill went up $20. The next (really cold) month was $40 more. We used 125 gallons less of propane for the whole winter. Be sure if anyone purchases a unit that the UL (Underwriters Laboratories Inc.) seal is on the unit. Some companies are evasive about their products and only give you 15 days to try it before you can return. Second, if anyone can help me with this problem I would be very grateful. We purchased a double-wide built by Fleetwood. in 2000. My windows have leaks, and they are becoming discolored to the point we can’t see outside.

I contacted Fleetwood and was told the warranty was for only five years. There is nowhere in the homeowner’s manual that mentions five years. It says several years. Therefore, they will not stand behind their product. They offered to send $150 for one window to have new gas put in between the panes. We are on a fixed income, and there is no way we can afford to replace six windows. These windows are all facing the sun. There is also mold in between the panes that I cannot get to.

Anyone buying a mobile home made by Fleetwood be sure you get all the information. My understanding is windows are usually guaranteed 10 to 15 years, not just five. Any advice would be appreciated. – No Name, No Town.

Answer:
In addition to responses from readers, did you purchase the home directly through Fleetwood Homes? If you didn’t, perhaps the company you purchased the home through can offer more suggestions as to what steps to take.

• A helpful Sun Spots reader dropped off photos found at the Russell and Main streets area of Lewiston. The photos are of an outdoor wedding and dated Aug. 3, 2006. If they belong to you, contact the Sun Spots column.

Dear Sun Spots: I am wondering if anyone gives sleigh rides in the Oxford area? Also, does anyone play Santa in the Oxford area? We would like someone the night before Christmas. Also, is there anyplace I can get four holders for the state quarters? – No Name, No Town.

Answer: In addition to responses from readers, contact Compass Coins & Jewelry, 199 Lisbon St., Lewiston and Republic Jewelry & Collectibles, 212 Center St., Auburn. Compass has coin boards in stock for $2.75 and Republic has a variety of different holders available for purchase.

Compass is open 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Monday through Thursday or by appointment, 784-2885. Republic is open Monday and Tuesday 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Wednesday, Thursday, Friday 9 a.m.-6 p.m., Saturday 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Contact the store at 784-4444.

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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