DEAR SUN SPOTS: For 10 years we have used ExploreMaine and Mid-Maine for our dial-up Internet service and now have constant disconnection and “cannot find host” problems. FairPoint upgraded our phone line, but it didn’t help. Does Sun Spots know if other dial-up users started having these problems about six weeks ago? Trying to determine the source of a problem is like finding a needle in a haystack. Thank you. — Offline, Oxford

ANSWER: Sun Spots began by trying to visit www.exploremaine.com, but their Web site was down. Not a promising start. She then consulted a technology professional, who said that the problem was more likely to be with your Internet provider (ExploreMaine) rather than your phone line. You could easily check this by signing up for another dial-up service. The reputable services will refund your first month’s payment if you aren’t pleased with the service after that time. The professional recommended checking out www.copper.net, with whom he’s had good luck. If your problems don’t go away after you change services, you can revisit the issue of your telephone service.

DEAR SUN SPOTS: Thank you again for your timely assistance in the past. Your column does a great service, and you certainly deserve every accolade your readership bestows upon you.

In your Sept. 21 column, someone complained about the lack of flag etiquette by individuals, businesses and organizations. The state headquarters of the American Legion notifies its subordinate posts when our national colors should be lowered to half-staff. It would seem that other patriotic-minded organizations (i.e., state/federal government, school systems, fraternal organizations, the U.S. Postal Service, etc.) could do the same. Most of these organizations have built-in communication systems. Maybe it’s time for them to review their processes and include notification of the flag’s position where appropriate.

It occurs to me that the media might help with this problem. Why couldn’t the Sun Journal place a one-by-two inch picture of our flag depicting half-staff at the bottom of the front page? Might the Maine Association of Broadcasters have their radio stations do a PSA reminding everyone to raise or lower their flag. The television stations could insert a short reminder in their newscasts, even putting it in the scrolls along the bottom of the picture. If not every day, just on the days it changes. No great cost, good PR.

Another sad observation: There are far too many faded, torn and tattered flags flying in our community. Organizations such as the American Legion, Elks and Boy Scouts have ceremonies to retire unserviceable flags. Citizens may take flags to them for proper disposal. Many of these groups also provide a handy guide on flag etiquette; please don’t hesitate to ask for one. Keep up your good work. Thank you. — F. R. Barclay, Leeds

DEAR SUN SPOTS: In response to the inquiry about where to buy Green Mountain potatoes, the Lisbon Farm Market on Route 196 in Lisbon grows and sells its own Green Mountain potatoes. Its phone number is 353-9115. — No Name, No Town

DEAR SUN SPOTS: I read your column and know how many readers get helped by it and am hoping someone will be able to help me. I am looking for some yarn, at least a skein or more of (Hayfield) DK Grampian DK yarn, quality G033, SH079, lot136. It is a beige tweed mix, and I am trying to finish a sweater I started. I purchased it at the Pin Cushion in Rumford, about four or five years ago. I am willing to pay for it plus the postage and handling. I can be reached by calling Sarah at 364-3388. Thank you all for your help — Sarah, Mexico

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 e-mailed to sunspots@sunjournal.com.