DEAR SUN SPOTS: In Sun Spots a few weeks ago there was information about craft classes being given in Lewiston. I’m interested in the beginner sewing class and the open house. I accidentally threw out the information and hope I haven’t missed it.

— Sharon, no town

ANSWER: Full information about Creative Artisans’ open house and many upcoming classes was published in the Oct. 23 Sun Spots. The open house will be held on from 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 10, and Sunday, Nov. 11, at the Pepperill Mill at 550 Lisbon St. Directions for those attending are to enter the mill from Lisbon Street near Quoddy. Creative Artisans is at the third dock on the left.

Karen Pelletier and Stefanie Mahr Damien will be there to help you sign up for workshops and classes. Their work and that of guest artisan Vana Zellers of Simply Vana’s will be on display. You can also sign up for classes by calling 207-713-4786 or 978-590-5105 or registering on-line at https://www.creativeartisansofmaine.com/festival-of-learning-classes.

DEAR SUN SPOTS: I know I’ve read a solution about getting rid of fleas in Sun Spots. I should have saved the column but neglected to do so. Help.

— No name, no town

Advertisement

ANSWER: Have you talked to your vet and local pet store personnel about a safe and effective way to get rid of the fleas? I’m sure they can recommend something. Meanwhile, here are some steps you can take. It’s important to clean up your yard. Inside, wash and dry everything you can on high heat, especially the items your pets sleep on. Vacuum every day, making sure to include drapes, lamp shades, etc. then dispose of the contents.

Make an effective cleaner with ¼ white vinegar to ¾ water. You can also add 1 tablespoon dish soap. This mixture makes an effective cleaner and flea remover for surfaces and fabrics.

Making homemade flea traps are worth a try as well. Use any shallow dish, such as a cookie sheet. Add 1-2 tablespoons of dish soap and swish it around then place it on the floor and leave it overnight.

Several people have recommended Vet’s Best Home Spray. This product is advertised as all natural and safe to use around all pets and children. A 32-ounce spray bottle costs about $13. Other ones to try are Easy Defense and Sentry Natural Defense, which are both about the same price. Check your local pet store for these products.

I have also used flea bombs with some success, if you are able to put one in each room and can close the room off. You and your pets do have to leave the premises for several hours. These flea bombs can be purchased at a hardware or big-box store like Lowe’s or Tractor Supply. Lighted flea traps are another gizmo you can try that doesn’t involve chemicals. The trap attracts fleas with a combination of color, heat, light and a sweet odor that lures them to a sticky surface. They are about $15 to $20 each.

I hate to say it, but the best results I’ve had involve calling an exterminator. They do a thorough job, bring peace of mind, and it’s not as expensive as you might think. Good luck.

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.


Only subscribers are eligible to post comments. Please subscribe or login first for digital access. Here’s why.

Use the form below to reset your password. When you've submitted your account email, we will send an email with a reset code.

filed under: