DEAR SUN SPOTS: For a long time I’ve been wondering if there are any laws in Maine regarding the disposal of our loved one’s cremains (ashes). Can one spread their ashes on the ground at the cemetery on our plot?

The only one I could think of getting this information from was you. You seem to be able to find the answer to any subject. Thank you for any help you can give me. — Faithful Reader, Lisbon Falls

ANSWER: Sun Spots started with the Maine Department of Environmental Protection, where she spoke to Scott Austin. Scott informed her that it is actually the Department of Health and Human Services that oversees cemeteries and crematoria. He also pointed her to a Maine.gov website with more information.

At http://tinyurl.com/6afnyw8 (frequently asked questions), it offers the following:

“Where can I scatter cremated remains in Maine?

“Title 13, Chapter 83, §1032 simply states that cremated human remains ‘…may be deposited in a niche of a columbarium or a crypt of a mausoleum, buried or disposed of in any manner not contrary to law.’ Specific locations are not specified, although the Division recommends obtaining permission prior to scattering remains on private property.”

(According to Wikipedia.com, “A columbarium is a place for the respectful and usually public storage of cinerary urns (i.e. urns holding a deceased’s cremated remains). The term comes from the Latin columba (dove) and originally referred to compartmentalized housing for doves and pigeons.”)

Scott said cremains are not considered hazardous waste. The biggest issue appears to be obtaining permission if you want to spread the ashes on private property.

Sun Spots suggests you contact the cemetery and see if they will allow you to sprinkle those ashes or if they will make you pay for space.

DEAR SUN SPOTS: We are writing to ask for help from the community. We are seeking yarn for our knitters, and we would also like to let any lonely or isolated seniors know about our program, for we’d love to assist them with volunteer and transportation support.

It’s that time of year again when we are in need of four-ply yarn of all colors, in good condition, to support our volunteers who are busy knitting hats, mittens, lap robes, baby items and afghans, which in turn are given to the needy of all ages in Androscoggin County. The yarn is donated to SEARCH and given out to our knitters as needed.

Our SEARCH program (Seek Elderly Alone, Renew, Courage, & Hope) has been part of Catholic Charities for 36 years now. We have wonderful volunteers who help our elderly clients by making weekly reassurance calls, providing friendly visits and companionship, or by assisting them with transportation for their errands. We provide services to seniors of all faiths, ages 60 and above, and it is free to all clients enrolled in our program.

For more information about donating yarn, joining our program, or if you would like to refer an elderly neighbor, friend or relative who could benefit from our services, please call our office at 784-0157.

Thank you for your donations and we look forward to helping many more isolated seniors in Auburn and Lewiston and the surrounding towns over the coming year! — Wendy Russell, program director, wrussell@ccmaine.org

DEAR SUN SPOTS: In response to Karen Connor (Oct. 11), the Christmas stocking patterns that she asked about were not Mary Maxim but Knit-O-Graph. Perhaps Sun Spots can get you the telephone number or an address. If not, call me, and I will have a copy made. — Laurette, Lewiston, 782-4807

ANSWER: Sun Spots found numerous mentions of Knit-o-Graph online, especially at etsy.com (a craft-focused website), but she didn’t find a site for the company itself. Karen had email, so she may be able to find the patterns she seeks with searches on etsy and eBay.

DEAR SUN SPOTS: To all the crafters out there who crochet, I am looking for an apple pattern for a doily or runner. This is for a special project. I can be reached at 933-4200 or by email at bubbagfs@fairpoint.net. Thank you for your help. — J. Sanborn, Monmouth

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). Please include your phone number. 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.

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