DEAR SUN SPOTS: I am the Maine coordinator for the Cancer Pillowcase Project in Maine, and I buy fabric and supplies with all donated money. These pillowcases go to any ill child in Maine; they do not have to have cancer.

I’m hoping some reputable businesses will let me leave a donation box with them to allow customers to contribute their change. I have had two of the boxes stolen, and they averaged $80 to $100 per week at that site. Apparently, some thief decided they needed it more than sick children.

Also, I have had several older sewing machines donated, but they need to be gone over, and I do not have the funds to have them repaired or purchase new for my workshops, so I am hoping someone will offer to help.

Thank you in advance. — Karen L.Flagg, flagg_karen@yahoo.com, 946-2016

ANSWER: Sun Spots spoke to Ron at Cote Brothers Sewing Machines, and he said he might be able to help you out with those broken sewing machines at no charge (assuming they are repairable). You can find Ron at 200A Auburn Rd (Route 4), Turner, 207-225-5920, ron@cotebrothers.com, www.cotebrothers.com.

DEAR SUN SPOTS: At one time a store called Beads Galore and More was located near the former Roak’s Florist on Center Street in Auburn. I would like to know if the owner still creates jewelry for clients, as I admired her skill as a designer. — No Name, Sabattus

ANSWER: The storefront may be gone, but the proprietor is still in Auburn, working from her home on Hotel Road by appointment only. You can reach her at 413-335-7692.

DEAR SUN SPOTS: I have written to you in the past with great results. I am once again inquiring about people who may have craft supplies, nature items (shells, pine cones, minerals, etc.), and used aquariums and animal cages they would like to donate for use in local preschools, family campgrounds and various organizations, such as Scouts, etc.

Aquariums will be used for fish or to make educational terrariums with animals such as frogs, salamanders, lizards, etc., and live plants. I custom make these, free of charge, for classrooms. Nature materials will be donated for hands-on science.

If you can help, please call or email me. — Drew Desjardins, Lewiston, mr.drewsanimals2@yahoo.com, 576-1034

DEAR SUN SPOTS: Once again Holy Trinity Church at 67 Frost Hill Ave. in Lisbon Falls is having an indoor yard/craft sale. It will be from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Friday, April 19, and from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, April 20.

Table rentals are available. A six-foot table is $10 for one day or $15 for two. An eight-foot table is $15 for one day or $20 for two. Deadline for rentals is April 1.

Lunch will be available for purchase.

Donated items may be dropped off at the church from April 8 to 17. Please, no TVs, computers, appliances or clothing. 

Call me for more information. — Pat Tardiff, 353-5035

DEAR SUN SPOTS: Waterford Grange 479’s talented and energetic members contribute to many community needs, including Waterford Santa and supplying warm mittens to local schools.

Like many other Granges in Maine, we have an aging building in need of repairs. We are seeking help from our friends and neighbors to raise money and plan on having a craft booth at the North Waterford Fair this July.

We would appreciate materials for knitting, crocheting, sewing, quilting, braiding or basket-weaving, as well as any crafts.

If you have any odds and ends you no longer need, we can put them to good use. Give me a call, and we can arrange pickup. — Mary DeLorenzon, Grange master, 583-4490

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 emailed to sunspots@sunjournal.com.

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