DEAR SUN SPOTS: The next Literacy Volunteers Tutor Training Workshop is scheduled for Oct. 18 and 19 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the University of Southern Maine’s Lewiston-Auburn College. Our waiting list of adults who need help with reading, writing, math, and/or English conversation is growing. We are looking for patient, organized and creative volunteers to assist them with their goals. Those who are interested can call us at 207-753-6658 or email literacy@literacyvolunteersandro.org. Many details can also be found on our website at literacyvolunteersandro.org. Registration is required.

Thank you for your help, Sun Spots. We have recruited many wonderful volunteers over the years through your column.

— Tahlia, no town

DEAR SUN SPOTS: Hillside Sports Club is gearing up for its annual Community Pumpkin Walk from 5 to 8 p.m. Oct. 20 at the AYS Building, the former Livermore Falls High School cafeteria, and grounds on Cedar Street in Livermore Falls.

We are looking for donations of pumpkins and any decorations you might have. We also need volunteers to help hollow out the pumpkins starting at 4 p.m. before the walk. We also need volunteers to help set up the day of the event and tear down the next morning.

If any organization, Scout troop, church group, child care centers, and school teams, etc. would like to have pumpkins to carve, please let us know and we will get them to you. We had more than 150 pumpkins to display last year and are in hopes that this year will be an even bigger event! As always, before and after the walk you are welcome to come into the cafeteria and enjoy Halloween confections, candy, hot mulled apple cider or cold cider. Costumes are not necessary, but encouraged! For more information, contact Janice at 207-897-2122.

— Pamela, no town

ANSWER: This sounds like such a fun time. I hope the whole town gets involved. This is your big chance to make so many kids smile!

DEAR SUN SPOTS: Russell Park Rehabilitation and Living Center has craft tables available to rent for its annual Christmas Craft Fair from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Friday, Oct. 26, and from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 27. The cost is $20 per table with the proceeds going to the Resident Activity Fund. To reserve a table or for more information, call Fern St. Claire, activity director, at 207-786-0691 ext. 101.

— Lori, Lewiston

ANSWER: Russell Park Rehabilitation and Living Center is located at 158-178 Russell St. in Lewiston. I hope all you talented crafters will get together and give a good showing at this event!

DEAR SUN SPOTS: Can anyone recommend a chimney sweep in the Lewiston area?

—Susan, no town

ANSWER: Here are some I know of, but readers, please send in your referrals! Auburn Chimney Works (207-212-1514), The Baker Chimney Cleaning Company (207-725-4640), Chim Chiminey Chimney Sweeps (207-782-2787) and Village Sweep (207-783-2497).

It’s very important to have your chimney cleaned and inspected every year, even if you don’t use your fireplace or woodstove much. They do deteriorate over time due to weather and dampness. Critters and insects of all kinds can make nests in there, too. Don’t take any chances; get that chimney taken care of!

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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