ANSWER: You probably need a braided rug lacer such as the Braidkin lacer. Visit Fabric Warehouse at 104 Washington Street in Auburn, www.fabricwarehouse.com or call 207-784-7151. JoAnn’s Fabrics, 732 Center St., Auburn, 207-783-1066, may have one but best to call first as most of their rug-making supplies seem to be for rugs that are hooked.

DEAR SUN SPOTS: I have a tree that still had all of last year’s leaves on it in March, although they had all turned brown. I’ve never seen any kind of deciduous tree keep all its leaves for the entire winter. What kind of tree is this? Why didn’t it lose all or most of its leaves in the fall winds and winter storms? — No Name, Auburn.

ANSWER: The tree you are referring to is called a pin oak tree. Its leaves persist through February and sometimes March.

According to the American Forests Web site, www.americanforests.org, while the pin oak foliage is deciduous, it seems reluctant to fall at the end of the season, though no reason is offered.

The origin of the name “pin oak” may refer to the pyramidal growth habit of the tree. Some believe the name dates back to when the hard, straight-grained wood was cut into slender pins used to fasten the framework of buildings. Another idea is that it is a reference to the pin-like stubby branches left on the trunk as the lower branches droop and slowly die. Or, the name could be attributed to the small pin knots left in the lumber from the tree having numerous small branches.

Acorns will appear on the tree when it is 12 to 15 years old and they are a food source for ducks, especially wood ducks, other water birds, songbirds, and ground birds, as well as squirrels, chipmunks, and even deer.

DEAR SUN SPOTS: I would like to send a letter to some of the players on the Boston Celtics. Can you find out the address for me? Thank you. — No Name, No Town.

ANSWER: Send a letter addressed to the specific player, C/O Boston Celtics, 226 Causeway Street, Fourth Floor, Boston, MA 02114.

You may write to your favorite player to request an autograph or for fan club information. Keep in mind; since NBA players have busy schedules they are sometimes unable to fulfill every request.

According to the official Boston Celtics Web site, http://www.nba.com/celtics, the Celtics came into being on June 6, 1946, and the franchise struggled for respect during its first four years.

They ended their first season with a 22-38 record and a last-place tie with the Toronto Huskies in the Basketball Association of America’s Eastern Division.

DEAR SUN SPOTS: Thanks for all the helpful information. At one time I got a catalog, I believe it was in Vermont and was called the Country Store. Could you please find the address for me. — No Name, No Town.

ANSWER: To order from The Vermont Country Store, contact them at 1-800-564-4623 or by mail at The Vermont Country Store, P.O. Box 6999, Rutland, VT 05702-6999. You may also reach them online at www.vermontcountrystore.com.

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