DEAR SUN SPOTS: I put an ad in your column about a month ago about a lawn chair that would lay down straight. You responded with the name and contact information of a man in Lewiston who had one. The next day I went to see him and he had just what I wanted. He was so nice and friendly and gave me the lawn chair for nothing. I want to say a very nice thank-you to him. I’m very happy with my chair. He’ll know who I am. — No name, no town

ANSWER: This is a perfect example of how Sun Spots works, dear readers. I strive to connect people with answers and with each other. I care about providing resources and information that make your lives not only easier, but more joyful, too. Finding something as lovely as a nice lawn chair to stretch out in on a summer afternoon can certainly make life better. I hope all of you will find a way to be the “Sun Spot” in someone’s day.

DEAR SUN SPOTS: This is in response to someone looking for someone to do tree trimming in the June 25 Sun Spots column. I would advise being very explicit about what you want done and what kind of cleanup you expect. I contacted someone to do some trimming last year. He showed up to give me an estimate, but never came to do the work. This year, I contacted someone to cut some small trees and grind up the stumps. He did the work in two trips, leaving a cut tree and big holes in the yard for more than a week. The tree holes were never filled in and when I got the bill it said “no cleanup” which had never been discussed. I assumed cleanup was part of the job. — No name, no town

ANSWER: I’ve learned over the years that it’s best to never assume anything! Whenever possible, get references and/or recommendations for any kind of contract work and be very explicit with what you expect. I make a written list of questions so I don’t forget anything. Don’t be shy about asking for details and telling a contractor what you need. Remember, they are working for you and you are paying them for a service. It takes both parties to make the working relationship the very best it can be. Be sure to do your part and ensure you have a clear understanding of what will transpire before the job is started.

DEAR SUN SPOTS: We haven’t seen Cory Froomkin, the weatherman on WCSH 6. What’s happened? — No name, no town

ANSWER: Cory is on WSCH Newscenter Maine’s Morning Report. He also has a new segment, “FoodieFroomkin.” It’s very fun!

DEAR SUN SPOTS: When did Jerry Reed die? He was a country singer, plus a truck driver in the movie “Smokey and the Bandit.” — Jan, Peru

ANSWER: Jerry Reed Hubbard, known professionally as Jerry Reed, an American country music singer, guitarist and songwriter, was also known as an actor who appeared in more than a dozen films. He died from emphysema in the fall of 2008 at the age of 71.

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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